bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Time-Restricted Feeding Improves 24-Hour Glucose Levels and Affects Markers of the Circadian Clock, Aging, and Autophagy in Humans
Authors: Jamshed Humaira , Beyl Robbie , Della Manna Deborah , Yang Eddy , Ravussin Eric , Peterson Courtney
Published: May 2019

Time-restricted feeding (TRF) is a form of intermittent fasting that involves having a longer daily fasting period. Preliminary studies report that TRF improves cardiometabolic health in rodents and humans. Here, we performed the first study to determine how TRF affects gene expression, circulating hormones, and diurnal patterns in cardiometabolic risk factors in humans. Eleven overweight adults participated in a 4-day randomized crossover study where they ate between 8 am and 2 pm (early TRF (eTRF)) and between 8 am and 8 pm (control schedule). Participants underwent continuous glucose monitoring, and blood was drawn to assess cardiometabolic risk factors, hormones, and gene expression in whole blood cells. Relative to the control schedule, eTRF decreased mean 24-hour glucose levels by 4 ± 1 mg/dl (p = 0.0003) and glycemic excursions by 12 ± 3 mg/dl (p = 0.001). In the morning before breakfast, eTRF increased ketones, cholesterol, and the expression of the stress response and aging gene SIRT1 and the autophagy gene LC3A (all p < 0.04), while in the evening, it tended to increase brain-derived neurotropic factor (BNDF; p = 0.10) and also increased the expression of MTOR (p = 0.007), a major nutrient-sensing protein that regulates cell growth. eTRF also altered the diurnal patterns in cortisol and the expression of several circadian clock genes (p < 0.05). eTRF improves 24-hour glucose levels, alters lipid metabolism and circadian clock gene expression, and may also increase autophagy and have anti-aging effects in humans.
Milk Powder Fortified with Potassium and Phytosterols to Decrease the Risk of Cardiovascular Events among the Adult Population in Malaysia: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Gandola Anita E. , Dainelli Livia , Zimmermann Diane , Dahlui Maznah , Detzel Patrick
Published: May 2019

This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of the consumption of a milk powder product fortified with potassium (+1050.28 mg/day) and phytosterols (+1200 mg/day) to lower systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, respectively, and, therefore, the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke among the 35–75-year-old population in Malaysia. A Markov model was created against a do-nothing option, from a governmental perspective, and with a time horizon of 40 years. Different data sources, encompassing clinical studies, practice guidelines, grey literature, and statistical yearbooks, were used. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of uncertainty on the base case estimates. With an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio equal to international dollars (int$) 22,518.03 per quality-adjusted life-years gained, the intervention can be classified as very cost-effective. If adopted nationwide, it would help prevent at least 13,400 MIs, 30,500 strokes, and more than 10,600 and 17,100 MI- and stroke-related deaths. The discounted cost savings generated for the health care system by those who consume the fortified milk powder would amount to int$8.1 per person, corresponding to 0.7% of the total yearly health expenditure per capita. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the results. Together with other preventive interventions, the consumption of milk powder fortified with potassium and phytosterols represents a cost-effective strategy to attenuate the rapid increase in cardiovascular burden in Malaysia.
Opportunities and Challenges Arising from Holiday Clubs Tackling Children’s Hunger in the UK: Pilot Club Leader Perspectives
Authors: Holley Clare E. , Mason Carolynne , Haycraft Emma
Published: May 2019

With the school holidays being recognised as a high-risk time for children to experience food insecurity, there is a growing prevalence of school holiday initiatives that include free food. However, information is lacking into what constitutes effective practice in their delivery, and how this can be evaluated. This paper provides insight from individuals who implemented a pilot of a national project which provided free food for children at UK community summer holiday sports clubs in 2016. Focus groups were conducted with all 15 leaders of the holiday clubs that participated in the pilot to understand: (1) what opportunities are provided by community holiday sports clubs which include free food; (2) what challenges arose as a result of offering free food within a broader community holiday club sports offer. Results indicate that offering free food at such clubs creates multiple opportunities for attending children, including: experiencing social interactions around food; enhancing food experiences and food confidence; and promoting positive behaviour. However, free food provision is associated with challenges including resource constraints and tensions around project aims. Future work should determine whether holiday clubs can positively impact children’s wellbeing and healthy eating.
Isolation of Native Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi within Young Thalli of the Liverwort Marchantia paleacea
Authors: Kobae Yoshihiro , Ohtomo Ryo , Morimoto Sho , Sato Daiki , Nakagawa Tomomi , Oka Norikuni , Sato Shusei
Published: May 2019

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are a group of soil microorganisms that establish symbioses with most land plant species. “Root trap culture” generally has been used for isolating a single regenerated spore in order to establish a monospecific, native AMF line. Roots may be co-colonized with multiple AMF species; however, only a small portion of AMF within roots sporulate, and do so only under certain conditions. In this study, we tested whether young thalli (<2 mm) of the liverwort Marchantia paleacea harbour monospecific AMF, and can be used as a vegetative inoculant line. When M. paleacea gemmae were co-cultivated with roots obtained from the field, the young thalli were infected by AMF via rhizoids and formed arbuscules after 18 days post-sowing. Ribosomal DNA sequencing of the AMF-colonized thalli (mycothalli) revealed that they harboured phylogenetically diverse AMF; however, new gemmae sown around transplanted mycothalli showed evidence of colonization from phylogenetically uniform Rhizophagus species. Of note, mycothalli can also be used as an inoculum. These results suggest that the young thalli of M. paleacea can potentially isolate monospecific AMF from field soil in a spore-independent manner.
The PIP Peptide of INFLORESCENCE DEFICIENT IN ABSCISSION Enhances Populus Leaf and Elaeis guineensis Fruit Abscission
Authors: Tranbarger Timothy John , Domonhédo Hubert , Cazemajor Michel , Dubreuil Carole , Fischer Urs , Morcillo Fabienne
Published: May 2019

The programmed loss of a plant organ is called abscission, which is an important cell separation process that occurs with different organs throughout the life of a plant. The use of floral organ abscission in Arabidopsis thaliana as a model has allowed greater understanding of the complexities of organ abscission, but whether the regulatory pathways are conserved throughout the plant kingdom and for all organ abscission types is unknown. One important pathway that has attracted much attention involves a peptide ligand-receptor signalling system that consists of the secreted peptide IDA (INFLORESCENCE DEFICIENT IN ABSCISSION) and at least two leucine-rich repeat (LRR) receptor-like kinases (RLK), HAESA (HAE) and HAESA-LIKE2 (HSL2). In the current study we examine the bioactive potential of IDA peptides in two different abscission processes, leaf abscission in Populus and ripe fruit abscission in oil palm, and find in both cases treatment with IDA peptides enhances cell separation and abscission of both organ types. Our results provide evidence to suggest that the IDA–HAE–HSL2 pathway is conserved and functions in these phylogenetically divergent dicot and monocot species during both leaf and fruit abscission, respectively.
Responses of Aspen Leaves to Heatflecks: Both Damaging and Non-Damaging Rapid Temperature Excursions Reduce Photosynthesis
Authors: Hüve Katja , Bichele Irina , Kaldmäe Hedi , Rasulov Bahtijor , Valladares Fernando , Niinemets Ülo
Published: May 2019

During exposure to direct sunlight, leaf temperature increases rapidly and can reach values well above air temperature in temperate forest understories, especially when transpiration is limited due to drought stress, but the physiological effects of such high-temperature events are imperfectly understood. To gain insight into leaf temperature changes in the field and the effects of temperature variation on plant photosynthetic processes, we studied leaf temperature dynamics under field conditions in European aspen (Populus tremula L.) and under nursery conditions in hybrid aspen (P. tremula × P. tremuloides Michaux), and further investigated the heat response of photosynthetic activity in hybrid aspen leaves under laboratory conditions. To simulate the complex fluctuating temperature environment in the field, intact, attached leaves were subjected to short temperature increases (“heat pulses”) of varying duration over the temperature range of 30 °C–53 °C either under constant light intensity or by simultaneously raising the light intensity from 600 μmol m−2 s−1 to 1000 μmol m−2 s−1 during the heat pulse. On a warm summer day, leaf temperatures of up to 44 °C were measured in aspen leaves growing in the hemiboreal climate of Estonia. Laboratory experiments demonstrated that a moderate heat pulse of 2 min and up to 44 °C resulted in a reversible decrease of photosynthesis. The decrease in photosynthesis resulted from a combination of suppression of photosynthesis directly caused by the heat pulse and a further decrease, for a time period of 10–40 min after the heat pulse, caused by subsequent transient stomatal closure and delayed recovery of photosystem II (PSII) quantum yield. Longer and hotter heat pulses resulted in sustained inhibition of photosynthesis, primarily due to reduced PSII activity. However, cellular damage as indicated by increased membrane conductivity was not found below 50 °C. These data demonstrate that aspen is remarkably resistant to short-term heat pulses that are frequent under strongly fluctuating light regimes. Although the heat pulses did not result in cellular damage, heatflecks can significantly reduce the whole plant carbon gain in the field due to the delayed photosynthetic recovery after the heat pulse.
Study on Delamination Between Polymer Materials and Metals in IC Packaging Process
Authors: Pan Cheng-Tang , Wang Shao-Yu , Yen Chung-Kun , Ho Chien-Kai , Yen Jhan-Foug , Chen Shi-Wei , Fu Fan-Rui , Lin Yi-Tzu , Lin Cing-Hao , Kumar Ajay , Shiue Yow-Ling
Published: May 2019

The electronic package interconnects electronic signals from one area to another and package delamination is a serious problem in the configuration of materials. This study focused on decreasing the delamination of the low-profile fine pitch ball grid array (LFBGA) and plastic ball grid array (PBGA) packages in terms of polymer thermal issue, metal bonding and bonding mechanisms. PBGA and LFBGA are a very common type of packaging processes in the electronics industry. The present study dealt first with delamination of the LFBGA packaging, through characterization and determination of physical and chemical properties such as surface roughness, surface energy, and contact angle. The relationship between surface roughness and delamination was verified through various roughness bonding experiments. In addition, the surface energy was determined by measuring the contact angle after cleaning the metal surface of Cu, Ni and Cr with Ar + O2 gas, and, this gas plasma treatment was applied to enhance the adhesive properties. The compositions of the surface were analyzed through an X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Also, the delamination issue between the corner of the heat sink cap and the epoxy resin was observed for delamination of the LFBGA packaging. Further, this study analyzed the PBGA packaging process through the finite element analysis simulation software ANSYS. To improve the heat sink cap delamination issue of the PBGA, a new chamfer design of the corner seat was streamlined to decrease the stress value and delamination. Besides, the simulation results demonstrated that the stress value reduced after increasing the shoulder length. The results implicate that the stress value is inversely proportional to the shoulder width and the chamfer radius. This study demonstrated that the optimization in design was able reduce the delamination phenomena in configuration material.
Biocompatible Materials Based on Plasticized Poly(lactic acid), Chitosan and Rosemary Ethanolic Extract I. Effect of Chitosan on the Properties of Plasticized Poly(lactic acid) Materials
Authors: Vasile Cornelia , Stoleru Elena , Darie-Niţa Raluca Nicoleta , Dumitriu Raluca Petronela , Pamfil Daniela , Tarţau Liliana
Published: May 2019

The purpose of the present study is to develop new multifunctional environmentally friendly materials having applications both in medical and food packaging fields. New poly(lactic acid) (PLA)-based multifunctional materials containing additives derived from natural resources like chitosan (CS) and rosemary extract (R) were obtained by melt mixing. Each of the selected components has its own specific properties such as: PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic aliphatic polyester derived from renewable biomass, heat-resistant, with mechanical properties close to those of polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate, and CS offers good antimicrobial activity and biological functions, while R significantly improves antioxidative action necessary in all applications. A synergy of their combination, an optimum choice of their ratio, and processing parameters led to high performance antimicrobial/antioxidant/biocompatible/environmentally degradable materials. The polyethylene glycol (PEG)-plasticized PLA/chitosan/powdered rosemary extract biocomposites of various compositions were characterized in respect to their mechanical and rheological properties, structure by spectroscopy, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, and in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility. Scanning electron microscopy images evidence the morphology features added by rosemary powder presence in polymeric materials. Incorporation of additives improved elongation at break, antibacterial and antioxidant activity and also biocompatibility. Migration of bioactive components into D1 simulant is slower for PEG-plasticized PLA containing 6 wt % chitosan and 0.5 wt % rosemary extract (PLA/PEG/6CS/0.5 R) biocomposite and it occurred by a diffusion-controlled mechanism. The biocomposites show high hydrophilicity and good in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility. No hematological, biochemical and immunological modifications are induced by subcutaneous implantation of biocomposites. All characteristics of the PEG-plasticized PLA-based biocomposites recommend them as valuable materials for biomedical implants, and as well as for the design of innovative drug delivery systems. Also, the developed biocomposites could be a potential nature-derived active packaging with controlled release of antimicrobial/antioxidant compounds.
Fashion and Faith: Islamic Dress and Identity in The Netherlands
Authors: Hass Bat Sheva , Lutek Hayden
Published: May 2019

This paper focuses on the relationship between clothing and identity—specifically, on Islamic dress as shaping the identity of Dutch Muslim women. How do these Dutch Muslim women shape their identity in a way that it is both Dutch and Muslim? Do they mix Dutch parameters in their Muslim identity, while at the same time intersplicing Islamic principles in their Dutch sense of self? This study is based on two ethnographies conducted in the city of Amsterdam, the first occurring from September to October 2009, and the second took place in August 2018, which combines insights taken from in-depth interviews with Dutch Muslim women and observations in gatherings from Quranic and Religious studies, social gatherings and one-time events, as well as observations in stores for Islamic fashion and museums in Amsterdam. This study takes as its theme clothing and identity, and how Islamic clothing can be mobilized by Dutch Muslim women in service of identity formation. The study takes place in a context, the Netherlands, where Islam is largely considered by the populous as a religion that is oppressive and discriminatory to women. This paper argues that in the context of being Dutch and Muslim, through choice of clothing, these women express their agency: their ability to choose and act in social action, thus pushing the limits of archetypal Dutch identity while simultaneously stretching the meaning of Islam to craft their own identity, one that is influenced by themes of immigration, belongingness, ethnicity, religious knowledge and gender.
An Efficient Approach to Remove Thick Cloud in VNIR Bands of Multi-Temporal Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Du Wenhui , Qin Zhihao , Fan Jinlong , Gao Maofang , Wang Fei , Abbasi Bilawal
Published: May 2019

Cloud-free remote sensing images are required for many applications, such as land cover classification, land surface temperature retrieval and agricultural-drought monitoring. Cloud cover in remote sensing images can be pervasive, dynamic and often unavoidable. Current techniques of cloud removal for the VNIR (visible and near-infrared) bands still encounters the problem of pixel values estimated for the cloudy area incomparable and inconsistent with the cloud-free region in the target image. In this paper, we proposed an efficient approach to remove thick clouds and their shadows in VNIR bands using multi-temporal images with good maintenance of DN (digital number) value consistency. We constructed the spectral similarity between the target image and reference one for DN value estimation of the cloudy pixels. The information reconstruction was done with 10 neighboring cloud-free pair-pixels with the highest similarity over a small window centering the cloudy pixel between target and reference images. Four Landsat5 TM images around Nanjing city of Jiangsu Province in Eastern China were used to validate the approach over four representative surface patterns (mountain, plain, water and city) for diverse sizes of cloud cover. Comparison with the conventional approaches indicates high accuracy of the approach in cloud removal for the VNIR bands. The approach was applied to the Landsat8 OLI (Operational Land Imager) image on 29 April 2016 in Nanjing area using two reference images. Very good consistency was achieved in the resulted images, which confirms that the proposed approach could be served as an alternative for cloud removal in the VNIR bands using multi-temporal images.
A Synergetic Approach for the Space-Based Sea Surface Currents Retrieval in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Ciani Daniele , Rio Marie-Hélène , Menna Milena , Santoleri Rosalia
Published: May 2019

We present a method for the remote retrieval of the sea surface currents in the Mediterranean Sea. Combining the altimeter-derived currents with sea-surface temperature information, we created daily, gap-free high resolution maps of sea surface currents for the period 2012–2016. The quality of the new multi-sensor currents has been assessed through comparisons to other surface-currents estimates, as the ones obtained from drifting buoys trajectories (at the basin scale), or HF-Radar platforms and ocean numerical model outputs in the Malta–Sicily Channel. The study yielded that our synergetic approach can improve the present-day derivation of the surface currents in the Mediterranean area up to 30% locally, with better performances for the the meridional component of the motion and in the western section of the basin. The proposed reconstruction method also showed satisfying performances in the retrieval of the ageostrophic circulation in the Sicily Channel. In this area, assuming the High Frequency Radar-derived currents as reference, the merged multi-sensor currents exhibited improvements with respect to the altimeter estimates and numerical model outputs, mainly due to their enhanced spatial and temporal resolution.
Radiometric Calibration of UAV Remote Sensing Image with Spectral Angle Constraint
Authors: Xu Kaiqiu , Gong Yan , Fang Shenghui , Wang Ke , Lin Zhiheng , Wang Feng
Published: May 2019

In recent years, the acquisition of high-resolution multi-spectral images by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) for quantitative remote sensing research has attracted more and more attention, and radiometric calibration is the premise and key to the quantification of remote sensing information. The traditional empirical linear method independently calibrates each channel, ignoring the correlation between spectral bands. However, the correlation between spectral bands is very valuable information, which becomes more prominent as the number of spectral channels increases. Based on the empirical linear method, this paper introduces the constraint condition of spectral angle, and makes full use of the information of each band for radiometric calibration. The results show that, compared with the empirical linear method, the proposed method can effectively improve the accuracy of radiometric calibration, with the improvement range of Mean Relative Percent Error (MRPE) being more than 3% in the range of visible band and within 1% in the range of near-infrared band. Besides, the method has great advantages in agricultural remote sensing quantitative inversion.
Violence Detection Using Spatiotemporal Features with 3D Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Ullah Fath U Min , Ullah Amin , Muhammad Khan , Haq Ijaz Ul , Baik Sung Wook
Published: May 2019

The worldwide utilization of surveillance cameras in smart cities has enabled researchers to analyze a gigantic volume of data to ensure automatic monitoring. An enhanced security system in smart cities, schools, hospitals, and other surveillance domains is mandatory for the detection of violent or abnormal activities to avoid any casualties which could cause social, economic, and ecological damages. Automatic detection of violence for quick actions is very significant and can efficiently assist the concerned departments. In this paper, we propose a triple-staged end-to-end deep learning violence detection framework. First, persons are detected in the surveillance video stream using a light-weight convolutional neural network (CNN) model to reduce and overcome the voluminous processing of useless frames. Second, a sequence of 16 frames with detected persons is passed to 3D CNN, where the spatiotemporal features of these sequences are extracted and fed to the Softmax classifier. Furthermore, we optimized the 3D CNN model using an open visual inference and neural networks optimization toolkit developed by Intel, which converts the trained model into intermediate representation and adjusts it for optimal execution at the end platform for the final prediction of violent activity. After detection of a violent activity, an alert is transmitted to the nearest police station or security department to take prompt preventive actions. We found that our proposed method outperforms the existing state-of-the-art methods for different benchmark datasets.
D-Shaped POF Sensors for Refractive Index Sensing—The Importance of Surface Roughness
Authors: Sequeira Filipa , Cennamo Nunzio , Rudnitskaya Alisa , Nogueira Rogério , Zeni Luigi , Bilro Lúcia
Published: May 2019

In this study the influence of the surface roughness on the transmission capacities of D-shaped plastic optical fibers (POFs) and sensors performance was investigated. Five D-shaped POF sensors were produced and characterized for refractive index sensing between 1.33 and 1.41. The sensors were characterized using a low-cost optical sensing system based on the variation of the transmitted light though the POF with refractive index changes (RI). Higher surface roughness increases the scattering losses through the POF and influences the sensors’ performance; therefore, a balance must be attained. Generally, the best performance was achieved when the sensing region was polished with P600 sandpaper as a final polishing step. Polishing with sandpapers of lower grit size resulted in lower scattering, higher linearity of the sensor response and generally lower performance for RI sensing. A sensor resolution of 10−3–10−4 RIU, dependent on the value of the external refractive index, was obtained through simple and low-cost manufacturing procedures. The obtained results show the importance of surface roughness in the development of POF sensors which can be used in several applications, such as for water quality assessment.
The Enhanced H2 Selectivity of SnO2 Gas Sensors with the Deposited SiO2 Filters on Surface of the Sensors
Authors: Meng Xin , Zhang Qinyi , Zhang Shunping , He Ze
Published: May 2019

This paper reports a study on the enhanced H2 selectivity of SnO2 gas sensors with SiO2 on the surface of the sensors obtained via chemical vapor deposition using dirthoxydimethylsilane as the Si source. The gas sensors were tested for sensing performance towards ethanol, acetone, benzene, and hydrogen at operating temperatures from 150 °C to 400 °C. Our experimental results show that higher selectivity and responses to hydrogen were achieved by the deposition of SiO2 on the surface of the sensors. The sensor with SiO2 deposited on its surface at 500 °C for 8 h exhibited the highest response (Ra/Rg = 144) to 1000 ppm hydrogen at 350 °C, and the sensor with SiO2 deposited on its surface at 600 °C for 4 h attained the maximum response variation coefficient (D = 69.4) to 1000 ppm hydrogen at 200 °C. The mechanism underlying the improvement in sensitivity and the higher responses to hydrogen in the sensors with SiO2 on their surface is also discussed.
ES-DPR: A DOA-Based Method for Passive Localization in Indoor Environments
Authors: Chen Zhang , Wang Jinlong
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we propose a novel indoor passive localization approach called eigenspace-based DOA with direct-path recognition (ES-DPR), based on a DOA estimation algorithm with multiple omnidirectional antennas deployed in a uniform linear array (ULA). To address the multipath propagation interference problem in the indoor environments, we utilize the azimuth and RSS estimation results, which are calculated by using the eigenspace-based DOA (ES-DOA) algorithm, in a novel style. A direct-path bearing recognition algorithm is introduced to identify the real DOA of the signal source in different indoor environments, by combining the azimuth and RSS estimation with ensemble learning methods. Numerical simulations are conducted to verify the validity and superiority of the proposed method. The results show that the proposed ES-DPR method can achieve high resolution and has strong anti-noise capability in dealing with the multipath signals, and the direct-path recognition algorithm is reliable and robust in different indoor environments, even in undetectable direct-path conditions.
Assessment of How House Ownership Shapes Health Outcomes in Urban Ghana
Authors: Dovie Delali A.
Published: May 2019

Background: This study investigates home ownership and its apparent health outcomes in Urban Ghana, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative datasets. Methods: The sample for the study consisted of 442 respondents using a multi-stage sampling technique. Results: The context in which houses are situated affects social support networks, physical and mental health outcomes. House ownership is then a precondition that enables social contact within neighborhoods. A Cramer’s V test value of 0.750 suggests a strong association between house ownership and health outcomes. Conclusion: House acquisition and ownership can potentially improve overall physical, and mental health and wellbeing.
Simulation-Based Assessment of Multilane Separate Freeways at Toll Station Area: A Case Study from Huludao Toll Station on Shenshan Freeway
Authors: Dong Changyin , Wang Hao , Chen Quan , Ni Daiheng , Li Ye
Published: May 2019

To support the rapid growth of demand in passengers and freight, separating trucks and passenger-cars is a potential solution to improve traffic efficiency and safety. The primary purpose of this paper is to comprehensively assess the multilane separate freeway at Huludao Toll Station in Liaoning Province, China. Based on the configuration and segmentation of the freeway near a toll station, a six-step guidance strategy is designed to adapt to the separate organization mode. Five conventional traffic scenarios are designed in the Vissim platform for comparative analysis between different guidance strategies. To investigate the vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) environment, a microscopic testbed is established with cooperative car-following and lane-changing models using the MATLAB platform. The numerical simulation results show that the guidance strategy significantly improves efficiency and safety, and also reduces emissions and fuel consumption. Meanwhile, pre-guidance before toll channels outperforms the scenario only applied with guidance measures after toll plaza. Compared to conventional conditions, the assessment of pollutant emissions and fuel consumption also embodies the superiority of the other five scenarios, especially in the sections of toll plaza and channels with the lowest efficiency and safety level. Generally, all indexes indicate that the cooperative V2I technology is the best alternative for multilane separate freeways.
Cultivating Women’s Empowerment through Agritourism: Evidence from Andean Communities
Authors: Gil Arroyo Claudia , Barbieri Carla , Sotomayor Sandra , Knollenberg Whitney
Published: May 2019

Tourism has the potential to empower women, particularly in rural areas. However, little is known about whether it can have the same effect in Andean communities, mainly because the traditional social and cultural structures of those communities have limited women’s ability to empower themselves through traditional economic activities. Through interviews with residents participating in agritourism development in seven communities across the Cusco and Puno regions (Peru, South America), this study examined the role of agritourism development in the empowerment of women in those communities as well as the ways in which it has changed traditional gender roles. Study findings revealed that agritourism contributes to four areas of empowerment for women: psychological, social, political, and economic. However, the culture of the Andean communities still has considerable influence on gender dynamics and may prevent women from garnering all the benefits of tourism development. Agritourism development in those communities should incorporate gender-related cultural considerations to navigate and overcome barriers, thereby allowing the maximization of empowerment benefits for women.
Electronic Structure of Intermetallic Antiferromagnet GdNiGe
Authors: Baglasov Evgenii D. , Lukoyanov Alexey V.
Published: May 2019

The electronic structure of the GdNiGe ternary intermetallic compound was investigated in this work. We carried out the spin-polarized DFT+U calculations of its band structure within generalized gradient approximation accounting for strong electronic correlations in the 4f-shell of gadolinium ions. The antiferromagnetic ordering was reproduced in the calculations, in agreement with experimental data. The calculated equilibrium volume is within 2% accuracy to the experimental crystal structure data, which demonstrates the reliability of the method chosen. The 4f-shell of Gd was demonstrated to substantially contribute to the spectral and magnetic properties of the GdNiGe compounds, whereas other ions were found nonmagnetic, in agreement with experimental data.
Assessing Alexander’s Later Contributions to a Science of Cities
Authors: Mehaffy Michael W.
Published: May 2019

Christopher Alexander published his longest and arguably most philosophical work, The Nature of Order, beginning in 2003. Early criticism assessed that text to be a speculative failure; at best, unrelated to Alexander’s earlier, mathematically grounded work. On the contrary, this review presents evidence that the newer work was a logically consistent culmination of a lifelong and remarkably useful inquiry into part-whole relations—an ancient but still-relevant and even urgent topic of design, architecture, urbanism, and science. Further evidence demonstrates that Alexander’s practical contributions are remarkably prodigious beyond architecture, in fields as diverse as computer science, biology and organization theory, and that these contributions continue today. This review assesses the potential for more particular contributions to the urban professions from the later work, and specifically, to an emerging “science of cities.” It examines the practical, as well as philosophical contributions of Alexander’s proposed tools and methodologies for the design process, considering both their quantitative and qualitative aspects, and their potential compatibility with other tools and strategies now emerging from the science of cities. Finally, it highlights Alexander’s challenge to an architecture profession that seems increasingly isolated, mired in abstraction, and incapable of effectively responding to larger technological and philosophical challenges.
The Adenosine Analogue NITD008 has Potent Antiviral Activity against Human and Animal Caliciviruses
Authors: Enosi Tuipulotu Daniel , Fumian Tulio M. , Netzler Natalie E. , Mackenzie Jason M. , White Peter A.
Published: May 2019

The widespread nature of calicivirus infections globally has a substantial impact on the health and well-being of humans and animals alike. Currently, the only vaccines approved against caliciviruses are for feline and rabbit-specific members of this group, and thus there is a growing effort towards the development of broad-spectrum antivirals for calicivirus infections. In this study, we evaluated the antiviral activity of the adenosine analogue NITD008 in vitro using three calicivirus model systems namely; feline calicivirus (FCV), murine norovirus (MNV), and the human norovirus replicon. We show that the nucleoside analogue (NA), NITD008, has limited toxicity and inhibits calicivirus replication in all three model systems with EC50 values of 0.94 μM, 0.91 µM, and 0.21 µM for MNV, FCV, and the Norwalk replicon, respectively. NITD008 has a similar level of potency to the most well-studied NA 2′-C-methylcytidine in vitro. Significantly, we also show that continual NITD008 treatment effectively cleared the Norwalk replicon from cells and treatment with 5 µM NITD008 was sufficient to completely prevent rebound. Given the potency displayed by NITD008 against several caliciviruses, we propose that this compound should be interrogated further to assess its effectiveness in vivo. In summary, we have added a potent NA to the current suite of antiviral compounds and provide a NA scaffold that could be further modified for therapeutic use against calicivirus infections.
Incomplete Urethral Duplication Associated with a Dermoid Cyst within a Vascular Hamartoma in a Female Dog
Authors: Clancy Chad S. , Hullinger Gordon A. , Van Wettere Arnaud J.
Published: May 2019

A seven-year-old spayed female Labrador retriever presented for necropsy following an acute history of thrombocytopenia, anemia, leukocytosis and abdominal effusion. A 2 × 3 × 10 cm, cylindrical to tubular, mottled red-to-tan mass extended from the caudal pelvic cavity caudally and ventrally under the dermis along the caudal aspect of the left pelvic limb adjacent to the semimembranosus and semitendinosus musculature. Histologic examination of the mass revealed a singular central lumen lined by urothelium that multifocally transitioned into non-keratinizing, stratified squamous epithelium associated with few hair follicles and sweat glands. The lumen was surrounded by a dense collagenous stroma containing numerous, variably sized blood vessels. The combination of lesions was consistent with a diagnosis of incomplete urethral duplication associated with a dermoid cyst and vascular hamartoma. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of an incomplete urethral duplication associated with a dermoid cyst within a vascular hamartoma.
Sideslip Angle Fusion Estimation Method of an Autonomous Electric Vehicle Based on Robust Cubature Kalman Filter with Redundant Measurement Information
Authors: Chen Te , Chen Long , Xu Xing , Cai Yingfeng , Jiang Haobin , Sun Xiaoqiang
Published: May 2019

Accurate and reliable estimation information of sideslip angle is very important for intelligent motion control and active safety control of an autonomous vehicle. To solve the problem of sideslip angle estimation of an autonomous vehicle, a sideslip angle fusion estimation method based on robust cubature Kalman filter and wheel-speed coupling relationship is proposed in this paper. The vehicle dynamics model, tire model, and wheel speed coupling model are established and discretized, and a robust cubature Kalman filter is designed for vehicle running state estimation according to the discrete vehicle model. An adaptive measurement-update solution of the robust cubature Kalman filter is presented to improve the robustness of estimation, and then, the wheel-speed coupling relationship is introduced to the measurement update equation of the robust cubature Kalman filter and an adaptive sideslip angle fusion estimation method is designed. The simulations in the CarSim-Simulink co-simulation platform and the actual vehicle road test are carried out, and the effectiveness of the proposed estimation method is validated by corresponding comparative analysis results.
Primary Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma of the Colon Mesentery
Authors: Lee Joo Hyun , Kang Dong Baek , Park Won Cheol
Published: May 2019

An undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS), also known as a malignant fibrous histiocytoma in the past, commonly involves the soft tissue of the extremities and the retroperitoneum. However, a primary UPS of the colon mesentery is very rare. A 69-year-old male patient visited our outpatient department for treatment of an enlarged, palpable mass in the right lower quadrant (RLQ). Computed tomography showed a 15-cm multilobulated, heterogeneous, enhanced mass in the RLQ, which we suspected originated from the colon. He underwent a right hemicolectomy, and the pathologic result was a colon mesenteric UPS. We report a rare case of a primary UPS of the colon mesentery and discuss the characteristics of this neoplasm in reference to the literature.
Agriculture production and rural development
Authors: Attila Buday-Sántha
Published: May 2019

In a national economy, the considerable part of its available territory consists of the so called rural area which is mainly used by the agricultural sector. In our days, the rural areas are characterized by the loss of their economic, administrative etc. functions. The agricultural sector is able to utilize the rural areas, though other economic activities play important role as well. To evaluate the agricultural sector in terms of the agribusiness, it is clear that the situation of the agricultural sector is not only decisive for the rural areas, but also for the whole national economy, and therefore, it is part of its balanced development.
Food safety of plant origin food
Authors: Zoltán Győri
Published: May 2019

Expectation regarding changes related to food production, transportation, distribution and marketing have changed considerably in several regions of the world over the past decades. It is especially true for highly industrialized countries where not only the food security is important but the food safety is essential too. The concentration of production – processing – distribution involves the danger on the one hand products of unsuitable quality from point of view of nutritional physiology and the other hand ones that may contain substances harmful to human health will become widespread among consumers. We investigated the heavy metal, pesticide remains and mycotoxin content of different plant products.
Using crop analysis in the precision nutrient supply system of maize
Authors: Zoltán Izsáki
Published: May 2019

The effect of the N, P and K supplies of soil on the grain yield and N, P and K status of maize was studied in a long-term mineral fertilisation experiment between 2001 and 2008 and nutrient supply limit values were determined to plant analysis. Based on the interaction between the N concentrtion of maize leaves measured at the beginnig of tasseling and grain yield, the satisfactory limit value of N supply to reach 10–14 t ha-1 yield was between 2.0–4.0%. Leaf analysis at the beginning of tasselling indicated that better P and K supplies were associated with a higher P and K concentration in the maize leaves. Correlation analysis on the P concentration of the maize leaves and the grain yield showed that at a grain yield level of 10–14 t ha-1 a P concentration of 0.20–0.37% represented a satisfactory P supply level. The satisfactory K supply limit value to reach 10–14t ha-1 grain yield was 1.5–2.6%.
PROBLEMS OF UKRAINIAN MANAGEMENT AND FUNCTIONING OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC SYSTEM DURING THE TRANSFORMATION PERIOD
Authors: Beglytsia Volodymyr , Stoian Oleksandra
Published: May 2019

The purpose of the article is to identify and analyze the problems of formation and formation of Ukrainian state management taking into account the historical context and consequences of implemented reforms in the economy, in particular, the analysis of the consequences of its functioning and ascertaining the reasons that led to the creation of a specific Ukrainian nomenclature bureaucracy. The material used for researching and increasing the objectivity and authenticity was selected from data that has been received and published in the official sources. To provide the analysis of trends in tendencies and risks, the authors chose the twenty years dynamics of the effectiveness indicators in the field of public administration in Ukraine according to World Bank reports (Worldwide, 2010). In order to avaluate the "shadow" economy influence, the authors included the data about its dynamics according to “Obozrevatel.ua” - 2017 (Ukraina, 2017), compared with the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) data for 2012-2017 (Corruption, 2017). The article deals with the genesis of the development of socio-economic relations in Ukraine while building up a market economy in the period of 1990-2016. It also includes the analysis of the domestic management functioning and effectiveness. It is stated that in the absence of experience concerning the functioning of state institutions and society in the market economy, the low efficiency of the management system Ukraine has failed to form a market economy system in a timely and balanced manner. There is an urgent need in the society for reforming public administration following the example of the client model of public administration, or public managerism as a democratic and open to society management system. For several decades in the absence of the necessary level of knowledge, a market economy, a critical mass of managers of the highest and middle level, a single political will regarding timeliness, direction and scope of reforms, as well as the lack of consistency and legal succession of all branches of power, the existing Ukrainian corrupt bureaucratic apparatus has failed to implement necessary socio-economic changes in Ukrainian society and ensure an appropriate trust in the authorities and support of their actions.
POLITICAL NATION: CONTENT AND PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Dzvinchuk Dmytro , Ozminska Iryna
Published: May 2019

The article investigates the concept of “political nation”. The analysis of research studies and the generalization of domestic and foreign experience in the formation of political nation prove the relevance of the issues raised. The study of peculiarities of the political nation formation in the coordinates of the Modernist period enhances the understanding of processes in the socio-humanitarian sphere, makes it possible to outline the ambiguity of interpretations of the conceptual foundations of the political nation, and also helps to develop the effective state policy in this area. It should be noted that there are few studies that systematically analyze the domestic and foreign experience of forming the political nation and they need modernization.
It has been determined that the identification of the sense of national identity is the result of the appropriate mental work, and external challenges greatly optimize this process.
Different approaches to the content characteristics of the notion “political nation” have been considered and summarized. A number of factors (the need to preserve the integrity of state and its consolidation, the formation of civil society, hybrid aggression, etc.) have been outlined, which stipulate the necessity of developing the adequate policy on dealing with crisis phenomena, existing in the Ukrainian national identity. It has been established that the political nation forms a corresponding type of national culture, which creates a more systematic understanding of the genesis, ritual and strategy of national development.
СОЦІАЛЬНА ВІДПОВІДАЛЬНІСТЬ ОРГАНІВ МІСЦЕВОГО САМОВРЯДУВАННЯ ЯК КРОК ДО РОЗВИТКУ ГРОМАДЯНСЬКОГО СУСПІЛЬСТВА (на прикладі Миколаївського району)
Authors: Kostieva Tetiana , Faichuk Olena
Published: May 2019

У статті розглянуто теоретичні та практичні аспекти діяльності органів місцевого самоврядування у сучасний період розвитку українського суспільства, розкрито сутність та значення  соціальної відповідальності в управлінні на місцях, а також значення головних аспектів у становленні та розвитку громадянського суспільства.
Зазначено практику розвинених країн світу, що дає змогу побачити значну різноманітність способів організації місцевого самоврядування. Визначено особливості соціальної відповідальності у період децентралізації.
На основі аналізу практичної діяльності органів місцевого самоврядування Миколаївського району з’ясовано низький рівень становлення інституту соціальної відповідальності, що не виправдовує стратегічного плану щодо розвитку європейських цінностей у побудові громадянського суспільства через призму взаємодії громади та місцевої влади.
Авторами вказується на необхідності використовувати досвід сільських рад, ОТГ, які мають яскравий приклад всезадоволеності громади розвитком сіл, загальним благоустроєм та орієнтацією на кожну особистість. Наголошено що спецiальнi принципи спiвпрацi мiж Україною та ЄС покликанi на регулювання вiдносин в межах рiзних галузей.
Обґрунтовано завдання щодо становлення та розвитку громадянського суспільства через призму чіткої соціальної відповідальності органів місцевого самоврядування перед громадою та суспільства в цілому.
ГРОМАДСЬКІ РАДИ ЯК ІНСТРУМЕНТ ВПЛИВУ ГРОМАДСЬКОСТІ НА ФОРМУВАННЯ ТА РЕАЛІЗАЦІЮ ДЕРЖАВНОЇ ПОЛІТИКИ В УКРАЇНІ
Authors: Lizakowska Svitlana
Published: May 2019

Стаття присвячена дослідженню особливостей функціонування громадських рад при органах виконавчої  влади в Україні. Проаналізовано взаємодію інститутів державної влади з інститутами громадянського суспільства через громадські ради, що діють при органах виконавчої влади.
Висвітлено динаміку розвитку громадських рад та сучасний стан нормативно-правової бази в цій сфері. Показано, що громадські ради є потужним інструментом залучення громадян до участі в управлінні державою та спроможні стати ефективним комунікаційним інструментом між інститутами влади та громадськістю за умови активної громадянської позиції та відповідального ставлення до виконання взятих на себе обов’язків і повноважень усіма учасниками комунікації.
Підкреслено важливість громадського контролю для становлення демократичного суспільства, розкрито механізми, через які він може реалізовуватися. Виявлено особливості громадського моніторингу та громадської експертизи.
Узагальнено теоретико-правові засади взаємодії органів влади і громадськості при формуванні та реалізації державної політики. Виокремлено основні форми, методи та інструменти такої взаємодії. Сформовано пропозиції щодо удосконалення порядку організації та проведення консультацій з громадськістю щодо формування та реалізації державної політики.