bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STUDENTS� LEARNING STYLE: A CASE STUDY OF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN BENGKULU
Authors: Arsyad Safnil
Published: February 2018

It is widely accepted that the use of learning materials which accommodates students� schemata is much more effective than the ones outside student�s present knowledge background. The objectives of this study are to describe the students� learning style distribution and their perception on local oriented and learning style-based English learning materials in Bengkulu Province. The respondents were senior high school students in Bengkulu Province. The results show that : 1) the English learning materials can present a well-designed English learning materials for senior high schools students; 2) the English learning materials with picture stories and visual and audio learning media help students learn English; 3) the learning materials have been designed very well according to the students; 4) as reported by the students the strengths of the English learning materials is that it provides new information on tourism places in Bengkulu Province for the students, 5) the learning materials (the text books and VCD/CD) could improve their motivation to learn English. It can be concluded that local oriented and learning style-based learning materials can be not only more effective but also preferred by the students.
Geophysical and Geotechnical Studies for Electric Power Plants Project at the Sakarya River Zone, Turkey
Authors: KURTULUŞ Cengiz , BOZKURT Ali , ENDEŞ Hasan , GÜVEN İsmail Talih
Published: February 2018

Geophysical and geotechnical studies were conducted at
a proposed hydroelectric power plants facility at a site north of Sakarya river
D100(E-5) bridge in Adapazarı town of 
Sakarya city in Turkey. The study is aimed at evaluating the competence
of the near surface formation as foundation materials. Geophysical and
geotechnical methods of investigation were adopted. The geophysical
investigation involved the Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) technique using
the Schlumberger configuration, seismic refraction and geotechnical
investigative methods comprised of boreholes to 40 m depth with Standard Penetrating
Testing (SPT) and undisturbed Shelby tube, disturbed Split Spoon soil sampling,
triaxial compresssion and consolidation tests.

A total of five Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES)
and five seismic refraction profiles from different location within the study
area were used for the study. Water content, plasticity, and grain size
distribution characteristics are obtained from laboratory testing leading to a
classification of soils using the Unified Classification System.

The geophysical results revealed three distinct
geoelectric sequences which comprises of topsoil, weathered and partially
weathered layers. The topsoils composed of clay/silt/sand while the weathered
layer composed of silty sand. The partially weathered layer is formed of silty
clay. The geotechnical results show that the partly weathered layer has
relatively high clay content. Based on the consistency limits of the soils
within the area, the soil generally indicate firm plasticity, hence, the soils
are expected to exhibit medium swelling potential. There is no evident of
geological feature such as fracture/fault within the subsoil in the area.
History and the Poetics of Relation: The Early Plays of Anguilla’s Colonel Harrigan
Authors: Saraceni Raymond
Published: February 2018

Between 1977 and 1979, Anguillian playwright Colonel Harrigan composed a set of three plays that were produced by the Anguilla Cultural and Social Society, of which he was a founding member. While this work has so far escaped scholarly attention, one can situate these plays productively in the larger context of Caribbean dramatic culture, serving as they do to incubate a sense of emergent national character while also problematizing notions of identity as absolute and unequivocal. Édouard Glissant’s paradigm of “Relation” allows us to see how Harrigan employs his own strategy of opacity, a “giving-on-and-with” that lies at the heart of “errantry” itself, to resist the false sort of absolute and coercive filiation that Glissant calls “root identity.” Inspired to undertake his dramatic work following a visit to Trinidad, where Nobel laureate Derek Walcott’s Trinidad Theatre Workshop had already risen to regional prominence, Harrigan crafts plays that must be understood as seeking to reflect large historical processes. His dramas are usefully read within the context of Anguilla’s Revolution of 1967–69, as they respond in complex ways to this particular moment in the history of Anguilla and to consequent processes of identity formation. Harrigan’s plays thus represent the sort of “creative friction” that Kamau Brathwaite sees as a critical component of a uniquely West Indian cultural achievement.
‘Green Tide’ to Biochar: Preparation and Adsorption Isotherms for Three Typical Organic Pollutants
Authors: Ma Yuhui , Wang Jing , Zhang Yushan
Published: February 2018

Enteromorpha prolifera (EP), the main source contributing to the outbreak of ‘green tide’, was used as the raw material to prepare biochars by pyrolysis. The biochars were analysed using N2-adsorption and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The pyrolysis process was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis coupled with FTIR. The adsorption capacities of the biochars were compared in terms of removal efficiencies of methylene blue (MB), oxytetracycline (OTC) and humic acid (HA). The adsorption isotherms of the three organics by the optimum biochar were investigated. The results showed that the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area of the biochar increased from 36 to 643 m2 g−1 with increasing pyrolysis temperature. The surface functional groups contained in EP were damaged during pyrolysis, while–N=O, S=O and C=N groups were formed on the biochar surface. Decomposition of EP resulted in the vigorous release of gaseous products at 240 °C, including CO2, H2O, aldehydes, ethers, aliphatic amines, sulfones and alcohols. CO2 was released due to the decomposition of carbonates above 700 °C and the in situ reduction of CO2 by carbon contained in the biochar was responsible for the high surface area of the biochar prepared at 750 °C (EPC750). EPC750 had the highest adsorption capacities for MB, OTC and HA among the biochars. The adsorption equilibrium data for MB and OTC onto EPC750 followed the Langmuir model with monolayer adsorption capacities of 138.89 and 103.31 mg g−1 respectively. The adsorption data for OTC also exhibited good agreement with the Freundlich model, suggesting the adsorption process was controlled by multiple mechanisms. The adsorption of HA by EPC750 followed the Freundlich model and the maximum adsorption capacity reached 64.27 mg g−1 under the experimental conditions.
Synthesis and X-ray Studies of Novel Azaphenanthrenes
Authors: Girgis Adel S. , Aziz Marian N. , Shalaby ElSayed M. , Asaad Fahmy M. , Farag I.S. Ahmed
Published: February 2018

Two azaphenanthrenes were synthesised by a facile synthetic pathway and characterised by X-ray crystallography. Molecular packing of 4-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-methoxy-5,6-dihydrobenzo[ h]quinoline-3-carbonitrile exhibits C–H…N and C–H…Cl hydrogen bonds in addition to intermolecular C–H…π, Cl…π and π…π (π-ring) stacking interactions. However, molecules of the 2-ethoxy derivative are linked into chains by one hydrogen bond of the C–H…N type and the crystal structure reveals an intermolecular C–H…π (π-ring) interaction. Computational studies by AM1, PM3, and density functional theory (DFT) techniques provide good approximations to the experimental X-ray data. The root mean square errors between the experimental and calculated bond lengths using AM1, PM3 and DFT methods for the 2-methoxy and 2-ethoxy derivatives are 0.0187, 0.0193, 0.0120 and 0.0197, 0.0195 and 0.0116 respectively.
Effects of Topical Anaesthetic and Buccal Meloxicam Treatments on Concurrent Castration and Dehorning of Beef Calves
Authors: Van der Saag Dominique , White Peter , Ingram Lachlan , Manning Jaime , Windsor Peter , Thomson Peter , Lomax Sabrina
Published: February 2018

The use of pain relief during castration and dehorning of calves on commercial beef operations can be limited by constraints associated with the delivery of analgesic agents. As topical anaesthetic (TA) and buccal meloxicam (MEL) are now available in Australia, offering practical analgesic treatments for concurrent castration and dehorning of beef calves, a study was conducted to determine their efficacy in providing pain relief when applied separately or in combination. Weaner calves were randomly allocated to; (1) no castration and dehorning/positive control (CONP); (2) castration and dehorning/negative control (CONN); (3) castration and dehorning with buccal meloxicam (BM); (4) castration and dehorning with topical anaesthetic (TA); and (5) castration and dehorning with buccal meloxicam and topical anaesthetic (BMTA). Weight gain, paddock utilisation, lying activity and individual behaviours following treatment were measured. CONP and BMTA calves had significantly greater weight gain than CONN calves (p < 0.001). CONN calves spent less time lying compared to BMTA calves on all days (p < 0.001). All dehorned and castrated calves spent more time walking (p = 0.024) and less time eating (p < 0.001) compared to CONP calves. There was a trend for CONP calves to spend the most time standing and CONN calves to spend the least time standing (p = 0.059). There were also trends for the frequency of head turns to be lowest in CONP and BMTA calves (p = 0.098) and tail flicks to be highest in CONN and BM calves (p = 0.061). The findings of this study suggest that TA and MEL can potentially improve welfare and production of calves following surgical castration and amputation dehorning.
Characterization of Control-Dependent Variable Stiffness Behavior in Discrete Muscle-Like Actuators
Authors: Fuller Caleb , Schultz Joshua
Published: February 2018

This paper presents the modeling, characterization and validation for a discrete muscle-like actuator system composed of individual on–off motor units with complex dynamics inherent to the architecture. The dynamics include innate hardening behavior in the actuator with increased length. A series elastic actuator model is used as the plant model for an observer used in feedback control of the actuator. Simulations are performed showing the nonlinear nature of the changing stiffness as well as how this affects the dynamics, clearly observed in the phase portrait. Variable-stiffness hardening behavior is evaluated in experiment and shows good agreement with the model.
Smart Control System to Optimize Time of Use in a Solar-Assisted Air-Conditioning by Ejector for Residential Sector
Authors: Avedian-González Giovanna , González-Potes Apolinar , Ibarra-Junquera Vrani , Mata-López Walter , Escobar-del Pozo Carlos
Published: February 2018

The present work provides a series of theoretical improvements of a control strategy in order to optimize the time of use of solar air-conditioning by an ejector distributed in multiple solar collectors of vacuum tubes for the residential sector, which will allow us to reduce carbon-dioxide emissions, costs and electrical energy consumption. In a solar ejector cooling system, the instability of the solar source of energy causes an operational conflict between the solar thermal system and ejector cooling cycle. A fuzzy control structure for the supervisory ejector cycle and multi-collector control system is developed: the first control is applied to control the mass flow of the generator and the evaporator for different cooling capacities (3, 3.5, 4, 4.5 and 5 kW) and set a temperature reference according to the operating conditions; the second is applied to keep a constant temperature power source that feeds the low-grade ejector cooling cycle using R134aas refrigerant. For the present work, the temperature of the generator oscillates between 65 °C and 90 °C, a condenser temperature of 30 °C and an evaporator temperature of 10 °C. For the purpose of optimization, there are different levels of performance for time of use: the Mode 0 (economic) gives a performance of 17.55 h, Mode 5 (maximum cooling power) 14.86 h and variable mode (variable mode of capacities) 16.25 h, on average. Simulations are done in MATLAB-Simulink applying fuzzy logic for a mathematical model of the thermal balance. They are compared with two different types of solar radiation: real radiation and disturbed radiation.
Tumor Resistance against ALK Targeted Therapy-Where It Comes From and Where It Goes
Authors: Sharma Geeta , Mota Ines , Mologni Luca , Patrucco Enrico , Gambacorti-Passerini Carlo , Chiarle Roberto
Published: February 2018

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) is a validated molecular target in several ALK-rearranged malignancies, particularly in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which has generated considerable interest and effort in developing ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). Crizotinib was the first ALK inhibitor to receive FDA approval for ALK-positive NSCLC patients treatment. However, the clinical benefit observed in targeting ALK in NSCLC is almost universally limited by the emergence of drug resistance with a median of occurrence of approximately 10 months after the initiation of therapy. Thus, to overcome crizotinib resistance, second/third-generation ALK inhibitors have been developed and received, or are close to receiving, FDA approval. However, even when treated with these new inhibitors tumors became resistant, both in vitro and in clinical settings. The elucidation of the diverse mechanisms through which resistance to ALK TKI emerges, has informed the design of novel therapeutic strategies to improve patients disease outcome. This review summarizes the currently available knowledge regarding ALK physiologic function/structure and neoplastic transforming role, as well as an update on ALK inhibitors and resistance mechanisms along with possible therapeutic strategies that may overcome the development of resistance.
Multivariate Entropy Characterizes the Gene Expression and Protein-Protein Networks in Four Types of Cancer
Authors: Juarez-Flores Angel , José Marco
Published: February 2018

There is an important urgency to detect cancer at early stages to treat it, to improve the patients’ lifespans, and even to cure it. In this work, we determined the entropic contributions of genes in cancer networks. We detected sudden changes in entropy values in melanoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatic cancer, and squamous lung cell carcinoma associated to transitions from healthy controls to cancer. We also identified the most relevant genes involved in carcinogenic process of the four types of cancer with the help of entropic changes in local networks. Their corresponding proteins could be used as potential targets for treatments and as biomarkers of cancer.
Maximum Likelihood-Based Methods for Target Velocity Estimation with Distributed MIMO Radar
Authors: Cao Zhenxin , Chen Peng , Chen Zhimin , He Xinyi
Published: February 2018

The estimation problem for target velocity is addressed in this in the scenario with a distributed multi-input multi-out (MIMO) radar system. A maximum likelihood (ML)-based estimation method is derived with the knowledge of target position. Then, in the scenario without the knowledge of target position, an iterative method is proposed to estimate the target velocity by updating the position information iteratively. Moreover, the Carmér-Rao Lower Bounds (CRLBs) for both scenarios are derived, and the performance degradation of velocity estimation without the position information is also expressed. Simulation results show that the proposed estimation methods can approach the CRLBs, and the velocity estimation performance can be further improved by increasing either the number of radar antennas or the information accuracy of the target position. Furthermore, compared with the existing methods, a better estimation performance can be achieved.
Mechanical and Alkaline Hydrothermal Treated Corn Residue Conversion in to Bioenergy and Biofertilizer: A Resource Recovery Concept
Authors: Paul Subhash , Dutta Animesh , Defersha Fantahun
Published: February 2018

In this research fall time harvested corn residue (CR) was first mechanically pretreated to produce 5 mm chopped and <500 µm ground particles, which underwent an anaerobic digestion (AD) process to produce biomethane and biofertilizer. Another sample of CR was pretreated by an alkaline hydrothermal (HT) process using 1%, 2% and 3% NaOH to produce solid biocarbon and the resulting alkaline hydrothermal process water (AHTPW), a co-product of biocarbon, underwent fast digestion under AD conditions to produce biomethane and biofertilizer. A predetermined HT process of 240 °C for 30 min was considered and the effect of alkali content on the HT process for biocarbon and biomethane product a rate of 8.21 MJ kg−1 and 9.23 MJ kg−1 of raw CR, respectively. Among the three selected alkaline HT processes, the 1% NaOH HT process produced the highest hybrid bioenergy of 11.39 MJ kg−1 of raw CR with an overall energy recovery of 62.82% of raw CR. The AHTPW of 2% and 3% NaOH HT-treated CR did not produce considerable amount of biomethane and their biocarbons contained 3.44 MJ kg−1 and 3.27 MJ kg−1 of raw CR of bioenergy, respectively. The biomethane produced from 5 mm chopped CR, <500 µm ground CR and 1% alkaline AHTPW for 30 days retention time were of 275.38 L kg−1 volatile solid (VS), 309.59 L kg−1 VS and 278.70 L kg−1 VS, respectively, compared to non-treated CR of 144–187 L kg−1 VS. Nutrient enriched AD digestate is useable as liquid fertilizer. Biocarbon, biomethane and biofertilizer produced from the 1% alkaline HT process at 240 °C for 30 min can reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of Ontario.
Closing the Energy Efficiency Gap—A Systematic Review of Empirical Articles on Drivers to Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Solnørdal Mette , Foss Lene
Published: February 2018

Research has identified an extensive potential for energy efficiency within the manufacturing sector, which is responsible for a substantial share of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The purpose of this study is to enhance the knowledge of vital drivers for energy efficiency in this sector by providing a critical and systematic review of the empirical literature on drivers to energy efficiency in manufacturing firms at the firm level. The systematic literature review (SLR) is based on peer-reviewed articles published between 1998 and 2016. The findings reveal that organizational and economic drivers are, from the firms’ perspective, the most prominent stimulus for energy efficiency and that they consider policy instruments and market drivers to be less important. Secondly, firm size has a positive effect on the firms’ energy efficiency, while the literature is inconclusive considering sectorial impact. Third, the studies are mainly conducted in the US and Western European countries, despite the fact that future increase in energy demand is expected outside these regions. These findings imply a potential mismatch between energy policy-makers’ and firm mangers’ understanding of which factors are most important for achieving increased energy efficiency in manufacturing firms. Energy policies should target the stimulation of management, competence, and organizational structure in addition to the provision of economic incentives. Further understanding about which and how internal resources, organizational capabilities, and management practices impact energy efficiency in manufacturing firms is needed. Future energy efficiency scholars should advance our theoretical understanding of the relationship between energy efficiency improvements in firms, the related change processes, and the drivers that affect these processes.
Energy Management Strategy for Micro-Grids with PV-Battery Systems and Electric Vehicles
Authors: Torres-Moreno Jose , Gimenez-Fernandez Antonio , Perez-Garcia Manuel , Rodriguez Francisco
Published: February 2018

This paper analyzes the impact of photovoltaic (PV) systems on storage and electric vehicles in micro-grids. As these kinds of systems are becoming increasingly popular in the residential sector, the development of a new generation of equipment, such as more efficient batteries or solar panels, makes further study necessary. These systems are especially interesting in commercial or office buildings, since they have a more repetitive daily pattern of electricity consumption, which usually occurs within the maximum solar radiation hours. Based on this need, a novel control strategy aimed at efficiently managing this kind of micro-grid is proposed. The core of this strategy is a rule-based controller managing the power flows between the grid and the batteries of both the PV system and the electric vehicle. Through experimental data and simulations, this strategy was tested under different scenarios. The selected testbed consisted of the laboratory of a research center, which could be easily scalable to the entire building. Results showed the benefits of using an electric vehicle as an active agent in energy balance, leading to a reduction of the energetic costs of a micro-grid.
Alkali-Activated Mortars for Sustainable Building Solutions: Effect of Binder Composition on Technical Performance
Authors: Attanasio Agnese , Pascali Livio , Tarantino Vito , Arena Wanda , Largo Alessandro
Published: February 2018

There is a growing interest in the construction sector in the use of sustainable binders as an alternative to ordinary Portland cement, the production of which is highly impacting on the environment, due to high carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption. Alkali-activated binders, especially those resulting from low-cost industrial by-products, such as coal fly ash or metallurgical slag, represent a sustainable option for cement replacement, though their use is more challenging, due to some technological issues related to workability or curing conditions. This paper presents sustainable alkali-activated mortars cured in room conditions and based on metakaolin, fly ash, and furnace slag (both by-products resulting from local sources) and relevant blends, aiming at their real scale application in the building sector. The effect of binder composition—gradually adjusted taking into consideration technical and environmental aspects (use of industrial by-products in place of natural materials in the view of resources saving)—on the performance (workability, compressive strength) of different mortar formulations, is discussed in detail. Some guidelines for the design of cement-free binders are given, taking into consideration the effect of each investigated alumino-silicate component. The technical feasibility to produce the mortars with standard procedures and equipment, the curing in room conditions, the promising results achieved in terms of workability and mechanical performance (from 20.0 MPa up to 52.0 MPa), confirm the potential of such materials for practical applications (masonry mortars of class M20 and Md). The cement-free binders resulting from this study can be used as reference for the development of mortars and concrete formulations for sustainable building materials production.
Evaluating Presence Data versus Expert Opinions to Assess Occurrence, Habitat Preferences and Landscape Permeability: A Case Study of Butterflies
Authors: Arfan Muhammad , Pe’er Guy , Bauch Bianca , Settele Josef , Henle Klaus , Klenke Reinhard
Published: February 2018

We explored how presence data and expert opinions performed with respect to identifying the ecological preferences and the spatial needs of six butterfly species in the Federal State of Saxony, Germany. We used presence records and a land-cover map. In parallel we used expert responses to evaluate the 40 land-cover types occurring in the map, in terms of both suitability and permeability for the six species. Presence data were translated into preferences through Ivlev’s electivity indices (IEI). Visual analysis of preference maps based on IEI showed a distinct pattern of suitable versus less suitable areas. Similarly, spatial analyses found that presence-points were closer to suitability areas based on IEI than those that were based on expert data. However, in case of mismatches between expert and presence-based evaluations, independent experts identified the expert evaluation as better and considered IEI outcomes as wrong. We found a medium to high correlation between land-cover class suitability and permeability based on expert opinions for all species. This indicates that expert evaluation of permeability is affiliated with habitat suitability. Integration of species-presence data and expert-knowledge about species could enhance our capabilities to understand and potentially map suitability while gathering information about suitability and permeability separately can improve species conservation planning.
Chronic Administration of Hydroxyurea (HU) Benefits Caucasian Patients with Sickle-Beta Thalassemia
Authors: Di Maggio Rosario , Hsieh Matthew , Zhao Xiongce , Calvaruso Giuseppina , Rigano Paolo , Renda Disma , Tisdale John , Maggio Aurelio
Published: February 2018

In sickle cell disease (SCD), hydroxyurea (HU) treatment decreases the number of vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) and acute chest syndrome (ACS) by increasing fetal hemoglobin (HbF). Data are lacking regarding the frequency of HU dose modification or whether sub-therapeutic doses (<15 mg/kg/day) are beneficial. We reviewed the medical records of 140 patients from 2010 to 2014. The laboratory parameters and SCD complications were compared between the first and last visits based on HU use. Fifty patients (36%) never took HU or suspended HU (“no HU” group). Among patients taking <15 mg/kg/day HU on their first visit, half remained at the same dose, and the other half increased to ≥15 mg/kg/day. Among patients taking ≥15 mg/kg/day, 17% decreased to <15 mg/kg/day, and 83% stayed at ≥15 mg/kg/day. The “no HU” group had fewer episodes of VOC and ACS. Both HU treatment groups had a reduction in both complications (p < 0.0001). This improvement was observed in all SCD phenotypes. The white blood cell (WBC) counts were found to be lower, and HbF increased in both HU groups (p = 0.004, 0.001). The maximal HbF response to HU in HbS/β+-thalassemia was 20%, similar to those observed for HbSS (19%) and HbS/β0-thalassemia (22%). HbS/β+-thalassemia could have a similar disease severity as HbSS or HbS/β0-thalassemia. Patients with HbS/β0-thalassemia or HbS/β+-thalassemia phenotypes responded to HU.
The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Lanzafame Manuela , Bianco Gaia , Terracciano Luigi , Ng Charlotte , Piscuoglio Salvatore
Published: February 2018

Whole-transcriptome analyses have revealed that a large proportion of the human genome is transcribed in non-protein-coding transcripts, designated as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Rather than being “transcriptional noise”, increasing evidence indicates that lncRNAs are key players in the regulation of many biological processes, including transcription, post-translational modification and inhibition and chromatin remodeling. Indeed, lncRNAs are widely dysregulated in human cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Functional studies are beginning to provide insights into the role of oncogenic and tumor suppressive lncRNAs in the regulation of cell proliferation and motility, as well as oncogenic and metastatic potential in HCC. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms and the complex network of interactions in which lncRNAs are involved could reveal novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Crucially, it may provide novel therapeutic opportunities to add to the currently limited number of therapeutic options for HCC patients. In this review, we summarize the current status of the field, with a focus on the best characterized dysregulated lncRNAs in HCC.
D181A Site-Mutagenesis Enhances Both the Hydrolyzing and Transfructosylating Activities of BmSUC1, a Novel β-Fructofuranosidase in the Silkworm Bombyx mori
Authors: Gan Quan , Li Xin , Zhang Xinwei , Wu Lanlan , Ye Chongjun , Wang Ying , Gao Junshan , Meng Yan
Published: February 2018

β-fructofuranosidase (β-FFase) belongs to the glycosyl-hydrolase family 32 (GH32), which can catalyze both the release of β-fructose from β-d-fructofuranoside substrates to hydrolyze sucrose and the synthesis of short-chain fructooligosaccharide (FOS). BmSuc1 has been cloned and identified from the silkworm Bombyx mori as a first animal type of β-FFase encoding gene. It was hypothesized that BmSUC1 plays an important role in the silkworm-mulberry adaptation system. However, there is little information about the enzymatic core sites of BmSUC1. In this study, we mutated three amino acid residues (D63, D181, and E234) that represent important conserved motifs for β-FFase activity in GH32 to alanine respectively by using site-directed mutagenesis. Recombinant proteins of three mutants and wild type BmSUC1 were obtained by using a Bac-to-Bac/BmNPV expression system and BmN cells. Enzymatic activity, kinetic properties, and substrate specificity of the four proteins were analyzed. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to compare the hydrolyzing and transfructosylating activities between D181A and wtBmSUC1. Our results revealed that the D63A and E234A mutations lost activity, suggesting that D63 and E234 are key amino acid residues for BmSUC1 to function as an enzyme. The D181A mutation significantly enhanced both hydrolyzing and transfructosylating activities of BmSUC1, indicating that D181 may not be directly involved in catalyzation. The results provide insight into the chemical catalyzation mechanism of BmSUC1 in B. mori. Up-regulated transfructosylating activity of BmSUC1 could provide new ideas for using B. mori β-FFase to produce functional FOS.
Structure-Activity Relationships of Thiazolyl Resorcinols, Potent and Selective Inhibitors of Human Tyrosinase
Authors: Mann Tobias , Scherner Cathrin , Röhm Klaus-Heinrich , Kolbe Ludger
Published: February 2018

Tyrosinase inhibitors are of great clinical interest as agents for the treatment of hyperpigmentary disorders; however, most compounds described in the literature lack clinical efficiency due to insufficient inhibitory activity against human tyrosinase (hTyr). Recently, we reported that thiazolyl resorcinols (4-resorcinylthiazol-2-amines and -amides) are both selective and efficacious inhibitors of hTyr in vitro and in vivo. Here, we measured dose-activity profiles of a large number of thiazolyl resorcinols and analogous compounds to better understand the molecular basis of their interaction with hTyr. We show that both the resorcinyl moiety and the thiazole ring must be intact to allow efficient inhibition of hTyr, while the substituents at the thiazole 2-amino group confer additional inhibitory activity, depending on their size and polarity. The results of molecular docking simulations were in excellent agreement with the experimental data, affording a rationale for the structural importance of either ring. We further propose that a special type of interaction between the thiazole sulfur and a conserved asparagine residue is partially responsible for the superior inhibitory activity of thiazolyl resorcinols against hTyr.
The Complex Subtype-Dependent Role of Connexin 43 (GJA1) in Breast Cancer
Authors: Busby Mélanie , Hallett Michael , Plante Isabelle
Published: February 2018

Gap junction transmembrane channels allow the transfer of small molecules between the cytoplasm of adjacent cells. They are formed by proteins named connexins (Cxs) that have long been considered as a tumor suppressor. This widespread view has been challenged by recent studies suggesting that the role of Connexin 43 (Cx43) in cancer is tissue- and stage-specific and can even promote tumor progression. High throughput profiling of invasive breast cancer has allowed for the construction of subtyping schemes that partition patients into at least four distinct intrinsic subtypes. This study characterizes Cx43 expression during cancer progression with each of the tumor subtypes using a compendium of publicly available gene expression data. In particular, we show that Cx43 expression depends greatly on intrinsic subtype. Tumor grade also co-varies with patient subtype, resulting in Cx43 co-expression with grade in a subtype-dependent manner. Better survival was associated with a high expression of Cx43 in unstratified and luminal tumors but with a low expression in Her2e subtype. A better understanding of Cx43 regulation in a subtype-dependent manner is needed to clarify the context in which Cx43 is associated with tumor suppression or cancer progression.
Xyleborus bispinatus Reared on Artificial Media in the Presence or Absence of the Laurel Wilt Pathogen (Raffaelea lauricola)
Authors: Menocal Octavio , Cruz Luisa , Kendra Paul , Crane Jonathan , Cooperband Miriam , Ploetz Randy , Carrillo Daniel
Published: February 2018

Like other members of the tribe Xyleborini, Xyleborus bispinatus Eichhoff can cause economic damage in the Neotropics. X. bispinatus has been found to acquire the laurel wilt pathogen Raffaelea lauricola (T. C. Harr., Fraedrich & Aghayeva) when breeding in a host affected by the pathogen. Its role as a potential vector of R. lauricola is under investigation. The main objective of this study was to evaluate three artificial media, containing sawdust of avocado (Persea americana Mill.) and silkbay (Persea humilis Nash.), for rearing X. bispinatus under laboratory conditions. In addition, the media were inoculated with R. lauricola to evaluate its effect on the biology of X. bispinatus. There was a significant interaction between sawdust species and R. lauricola for all media. Two of the media supported the prolific reproduction of X. bispinatus, but the avocado-based medium was generally more effective than the silkbay-based medium, regardless whether or not it was inoculated with R. lauricola. R. lauricola had a neutral or positive effect on beetle reproduction. The pathogen was frequently recovered from beetle galleries, but only from a few individuals which were reared on inoculated media, and showed limited colonization of the beetle’s mycangia. Two media with lower water content were most effective for rearing X. bispinatus.
Exploring N-acyl-4-azatetracyclo[5.3.2.02,6.08,10]dodec-11-enes as 11β-HSD1 Inhibitors
Authors: Leiva Rosana , McBride Andrew , Binnie Margaret , Webster Scott , Vázquez Santiago
Published: February 2018

We recently found that a cyclohexanecarboxamide derived from 4-azatetracyclo[5.3.2.02,6.08,10]dodec-11-ene displayed low nanomolar inhibition of 11β-HSD1. In continuation of our efforts to discover potent and selective 11β-HSD1 inhibitors, herein we explored several replacements for the cyclohexane ring. Some derivatives exhibited potent inhibitory activity against human 11β-HSD1, although with low selectivity over the isoenzyme 11β-HSD2, and poor microsomal stability.
Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Astaxanthin and Sesamin on Daily Fatigue: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Two-Way Crossover Study
Authors: Imai Ayano , Oda Yuriko , Ito Naoki , Seki Shinobu , Nakagawa Kiyotaka , Miyazawa Teruo , Ueda Fumitaka
Published: February 2018

Severe fatigue can negatively affect quality of life, and oxidative stress may play a role in its mechanism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of astaxanthin and sesamin (AS), strong food-derived antioxidants, on fatigue. Twenty-four healthy volunteers were supplemented with AS and placebo, each for four weeks. After each supplementation period, participants underwent tasks inducing mental and physical fatigue (visual display terminal task and ergometer task, respectively). Subjective fatigue was evaluated using a visual analogue scale during and after the mental and physical tasks, and daily subjective fatigue was evaluated by the Chalder fatigue questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included other subjective feelings, work efficiency, autonomic nerve activity, levels of an oxidative stress marker (plasma phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide (PCOOH)) and safety. AS supplementation was associated with significantly improved recovery from mental fatigue compared with placebo. Increased PCOOH levels during mental and physical tasks were attenuated by AS supplementation. No differences between AS and placebo were detected in secondary outcomes, and no adverse effects of AS supplementation were observed. In conclusion, AS supplementation may be a candidate to promote recovery from mental fatigue which is experienced by many healthy people.
Limits on the Reconstruction of a Single Dark Energy Scalar Field Potential from SNe Ia Data
Authors: Piloyan Arpine , Pavluchenko Sergey , Amendola Luca
Published: February 2018

In this paper we perform a reconstruction of the scalar field potential responsible for cosmic acceleration using SNe Ia data. After describing the method, we test it with real SNe Ia data—Union2.1 and JLA SNe datasets. We demonstrate that with the current data precision level, the full reconstruction is not possible. We discuss the problems which arise during the reconstruction process and the ways to overcome them.
Fique Fabric: A Promising Reinforcement for Polymer Composites
Authors: Neves Monteiro Sergio , Salgado de Assis Foluke , Ferreira Carlos , Tonini Simonassi Noan , Pondé Weber Ricardo , Souza Oliveira Michelle , Colorado Henry , Camposo Pereira Artur
Published: February 2018

A relatively unknown natural fiber extracted from the leaves of the fique plant, native of the South American Andes, has recently shown potential as reinforcement of polymer composites for engineering applications. Preliminary investigations indicated a promising substitute for synthetic fibers, competing with other well-known natural fibers. The fabric made from fique fibers have not yet been investigated as possible composite reinforcement. Therefore, in the present work a more thorough characterization of fique fabric as a reinforcement of composites with a polyester matrix was performed. Thermal mechanical properties of fique fabric composites were determined by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The ballistic performance of plain woven fique fabric-reinforced polyester matrix composites was investigated as a second layer in a multilayered armor system (MAS). The results revealed a sensible improvement in thermal dynamic mechanical behavior. Both viscoelastic stiffness and glass transition temperature were increased with the amount of incorporated fique fabric. In terms of ballistic results, the fique fabric composites present a performance similar to that of the much stronger KevlarTM as an MAS second layer with the same thickness. A cost analysis indicated that armor vests with fique fabric composites as an MAS second layer would be 13 times less expensive than a similar creation made with Kevlar™.
An Optimized Method to Detect BDS Satellites’ Orbit Maneuvering and Anomalies in Real-Time
Authors: Huang Guanwen , Qin Zhiwei , Zhang Qin , Wang Le , Yan Xingyuan , Wang Xiaolei
Published: February 2018

The orbital maneuvers of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Constellations will decrease the performance and accuracy of positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT). Because satellites in the Chinese BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) are in Geostationary Orbit (GEO) and Inclined Geosynchronous Orbit (IGSO), maneuvers occur more frequently. Also, the precise start moment of the BDS satellites’ orbit maneuvering cannot be obtained by common users. This paper presented an improved real-time detecting method for BDS satellites’ orbit maneuvering and anomalies with higher timeliness and higher accuracy. The main contributions to this improvement are as follows: (1) instead of the previous two-steps method, a new one-step method with higher accuracy is proposed to determine the start moment and the pseudo random noise code (PRN) of the satellite orbit maneuvering in that time; (2) BDS Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) orbital maneuvers are firstly detected according to the proposed selection strategy for the stations; and (3) the classified non-maneuvering anomalies are detected by a new median robust method using the weak anomaly detection factor and the strong anomaly detection factor. The data from the Multi-GNSS Experiment (MGEX) in 2017 was used for experimental analysis. The experimental results and analysis showed that the start moment of orbital maneuvers and the period of non-maneuver anomalies can be determined more accurately in real-time. When orbital maneuvers and anomalies occur, the proposed method improved the data utilization for 91 and 95 min in 2017.
In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Gel Containing the Herbal Ball Extract against Propionibacterium acnes
Authors: Jantarat Chutima , Sirathanarun Pornpak , Chuchue Tatsanee , Konpian Atthaphon , Sukkua Gorawit , Wongprasert Prutthicha
Published: February 2018

The herbal ball has been used as a Thai traditional medicine for relieving many diseases including acne. However, the application process of the herbal ball in practice is complicated and time consuming. The objective of this work was to utilize an herbal ball extract to formulate a gel to reach a more favorable use of the herbal ball for acne treatment. An herbal ball consisting of Andrographis paniculata, Centella asiatica, the Benchalokawichian remedy and the stem bark powder of Hesperethusa crenulata was prepared. The obtained herbal ball was steamed and squeezed to obtain the extract. Gel formulations containing the herbal ball extract at concentrations of 0.1, 1 and 5% w/w were prepared based on a carbomer gel. The herbal ball extract had antioxidant (EC50 = 219.27 ± 36.98 μg/mL) and anti Propionibacterium acnes activities (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) = 31.25 μg/mL). The 5% w/w gel formulation had antimicrobial activity against P. acnes, showing an inhibition zone value of 10.00 ± 1.00 mm. This indicates that the developed gel formulation has potential for acne treatment. In comparison to the traditional method of herbal ball usage, the application of herbal ball extract in the form of gel should be more convenient to use.
An Exploratory Assessment of Community-Oriented Policing Implementation, Social Disorganization and Crime in America
Authors: Przeszlowski Kimberly S. , Crichlow Vaughn J.
Published: February 2018

Prior research has examined the impact of community-oriented policing (COP) on crime extensively. While the implementation of community policing has been considered mainly within the context of large police agencies, there is a paucity of research on how COP impacts crime reduction efforts in smaller locales. This study explores the effects of the degree of community policing implementation within smaller agencies and cities on crime. As part of the discussion on the impact of COP implementation, this paper also considers the impact of social disorganization on crime in the United States. The aim is to gain further insight into what variables may be influencing crime rates in contexts that garner less attention from researchers. The findings indicate that COP implementation does not significantly explain the variation of crime rates. Still, the statistically significant results on several social disorganization factors reflect the need to incorporate social disorganization theory with practice in order to maximize community-policing success. The implications of these results for police practice as well as directions for future research are discussed.
Changes in the Ecological Environment of the Marginal Seas along the Eurasian Continent from 2003 to 2014
Authors: Bai Yan , He Xianqiang , Yu Shujie , Chen Chen-Tung
Published: February 2018

Based on time-series satellite-retrieved records of the marine ecological environment from Aqua/MODIS, we investigated changes in the sea surface temperature (SST), photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), Secchi Disc depth (SDD), and chlorophyll-a concentration (Chla) in 12 Eurasian marginal seas from 2003 to 2014. Results showed that the SST increased in all 12 marginal seas, with the enclosed marginal seas (i.e., Black Sea, Baltic Sea, Japan Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and Persian Gulf) exhibiting relatively higher rates of increase. The PAR generally decreased, except in the European marginal seas, though not significantly. Similar to the changes in the SST, the SDD increased in all 12 marginal seas, with a maximum rate of 3.02%/year (or 0.25 m/year, p = 0.0003) found in the Persian Gulf. As expected, Chla generally decreased in the tropical marginal seas, but increased in the high-latitude marginal seas. The different relationships between SST and Chla changes indicate the complexity of global warming effects on marine phytoplankton in different marginal seas.
Within-Class and Neighborhood Effects on the Relationship between Composite Urban Classes and Surface Temperature
Authors: Kremer Peleg , Larondelle Neele , Zhang Yimin , Pasles Elise , Haase Dagmar
Published: February 2018

Understanding the relationship between urban structure and ecological function—or environmental performance—is important for the planning of sustainable cities, and requires examination of how components in urban systems are organized. In this paper, we develop a Structure of Urban Landscape (STURLA) classification, identifying common compositions of urban components using Berlin, Germany as a case study. We compute the surface temperature corresponding to each classification grid cell, and perform within-cell and neighborhood analysis for the most common composite classes in Berlin. We found that with-class composition and neighborhood composition as well as the interaction between them drive surface temperature. Our findings suggest that the spatial organization of urban components is important in determining the surface temperature and that specific combinations, such as low-rise buildings surrounded by neighborhood trees, or mid-rise buildings surrounded by high-rise buildings, compound to create a cooling effect. These findings are important for developing an understanding of how urban planning can harness structure-function relationships and improve urban sustainability.
Daytime Lighting Assessment in Textile Factories Using Connected Windows in Slovakia: A Case Study
Authors: Katunský Dušan , Dolníková Erika , Dolník Bystrík
Published: February 2018

This paper highlights the problems that are associated with daylight use in industrial facilities. In a case study of a multi-story textile factory, we report how to evaluate daylight (as part of integral light) in the production halls marked F and G. This study follows the article in the Buildings journal, where Hall E was evaluated (unilateral daylight). These two additional halls have large areas that are 54 × 54 m and are more than five meters high. The daylight is only on the side through the attached windows in envelope structures in the vertical position on the hall. In this paper, we want to present two case studies of these two production halls in a textile factory in the eastern part of Slovakia. These are halls that are illuminated by daylight from two sides through exterior peripheral walls that are against or next to each other. The results of the case studies can be applied in similar production halls illuminated by a “double-sided” (bilateral) daylight system. This means that they are illuminated by natural illumination through windows on two sides in a vertical position. Such a situation is typical for multi-storied industrial buildings. The proposed approximate calculation method for the daylight factor can be used to predict the daylight in similar spaces in other similar buildings.