bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimalisasi Sistem Pengelolaan E-Journal Berbasis Open Journal System (OJS) Menggunakan Framework CSS Bootstrap Pada Instansi dan Asosiasi
Authors: Handayani Indri , Maulani Giandari , Noviandri Evira , Ningsih Hesti Widya
Published: May 2020

Jurnal merupakan sebuah tulisan khusus yang di dalamnya memuat berbagai artikel dalam suatu bidang ilmu tertentu. Jurnal digunakan sebagai referensi dalam melakukan penulisan karya ilmiah baik oleh mahasiswa maupun oleh dosen. Saat ini beberapa instansi dan asosiasi yang diantaranya menjadi objek penelitian sudah menggunakan sistem pengolahan dan publikasi jurnal ilmiah berbasis OJS. Namun dalam publikasinya masih berbasis OJS Versi 2.4.8. Pada OJS Versi 2.4.8 dirasa masih belum optimal, salah satunya dalam hal kustomisasi yang tidak bisa Customize tampilan dengan mudah. Maka dari itu diperlukan pengoptimalan sistem pengelolaan e-journal dengan menggunakan OJS Versi 3.1.0.1 yang lebih flexible serta memiliki tampilan yang menarik dan mudah di kustomisasi menggunakan tema Framework CSS Bootstrap. Metode penelitian dalam penelitian ini antara lain metode analisis permasalahan, metode analisis kebutuhan peningkatan versi sistem, dan metode pengembangan perangkat lunak menggunakan metode waterfall. Setelah melakukan optimalisasi dengan menggunakan OJS versi 3.1.0.1, publikasi lebih mudah dilakukan dan yang paling utama tampilan dapat dikustomisasi menggunakan Framework CSS Bootstrap sehingga lebih user-friendly.
Monitoring wizyjny i jego wpływ na straty spowodowane przestępczością. Przykłady z wybranych polskich miast
Authors: Szwierz Jacek , Matczak Piotr , Dąbrowski Adam , Wójtowicz Andrzej
Published: May 2020

W Polsce, podobnie jak w innych krajach, brakuje jednoznacznego i uzgodnionego wyjaśnienia przyczyn obniżenia poziomu przestępczości odnotowanego w ostatnich kilkunastu latach. W artykule analizowany jest wpływ systemów monitoringu wizyjnego na straty powodowane przez trzy kategorie przestępstw: (a) kradzież samochodu, kradzież z włamaniem do samochodu, kradzież z samochodu; (b) uszkodzenie samochodu; (c) rozbój. Aby odpowiedzieć na pytanie, czy instalowanie systemów monitoringu wizyjnego ma wpływ na bezpieczeństwo, badane są ekonomiczne skutki instalowania kamer w ośmiu polskich miastach, w których systemy monitoringu wizyjnego są dobrze rozwinięte (Gdańsk, Katowice, Kielce, Lublin, Łódź, Poznań, Warszawa, Wrocław). Określenie wpływu instalacji kamer na zmniejszenie strat spowodowanych przestępczością pozwala ocenić przydatność kamer dla poprawy bezpieczeństwa publicznego.Analiza danych przeprowadzona na potrzeby artykułu częściowo potwierdza skuteczność monitoringu miejskiego w zakresie zmniejszania liczby przestępstw w badanych kategoriach. Warto zaznaczyć, że również inne czynniki mogą mieć na to wpływ. Monitoring miejski ma natomiast mniejsze oddziaływanie na straty spowodowane przestępczością. W związku z tym przy ocenie skuteczności monitoringu wizyjnego w obniżaniu poziomu przestępczości poleganie wyłącznie na kryterium liczby przestępstw jest niewystarczające.
E.Coli Analysis of Settlement without Slums in Deli River Watershed, Hamdan Sub-District, Medan Maimun
Authors: Fitri Rahmadhani
Published: May 2020

The aim of the study is to find out E.Coli Analysis of Settlement without Slums in Deli River Watershed, Hamdan Sub-District, Medan Maimun. The results shows that  E. Colli Laboratory amounting to 21420 - 36540/100 ml, still above the quality standards set by PP No.82 of 2001 concerning the management of water quality and control of water pollution. The results of the analysis of Total Coliform Laboratory of 198630 - 241960/100 ml, are still above the quality standards set by PP No.82 of 2001 concerning the management of water quality and control of water pollution. Alternative water treatment needs to be done before structuring buildings around the river location by means of filtration treatment and disinfecting. The arrangement that needs to be done next is to make a bathroom around the river location.
Strategy for Development of Ecological Citizens by Walhi Yogyakarta through Community-Based Education in Communities Gunung Sewu
Authors: Ridwan Feri Taupik , Gunawati Dewi , Triastuti Rini
Published: May 2020

The issue of environmental damage is one of the issues of global concern, occurring in almost all countries. Indonesia is one of the countries that have experienced environmental crises in a row every year. Burning forests, pollution and garbage are some things that until now have not found the right solution. This was compounded by the emergence of infrastructure development that escaped ecological awareness, both in the construction of roads, airports and expansion of urban areas. Environmental damage occurs almost everywhere, including the Gunung Sewu karst area which is threatened by mining and tourism. There are several factors causing environmental damage including the lack of ecological education programs carried out by the government to the community, the role of schooling that has not been optimal in environmental-based learning to the level of public awareness that is still low on sustainable development. Therefore it is important to form ecological citizenship that is responsible and able to be wise in protecting, managing and destroying the environment. From the point of view of Civic Education (Civics) the effort is an effort to develop civic virtue within the scope of Ecological citizenship. This study aims to determine the efforts made by the Yogyakarta walhi in conducting guidance to the Gunung Sewu community in the preservation of the Gunung Sewu karst area. The research method uses a qualitative approach. Research informants were members of the Yogyakarta walhi and Gunung Sewu Community. This research will show a variety of community development programs that include community development, providing information to the community and socialization of the preservation of the Gunung Sewu karst
BNI Marketing Strategy for Credit Cards in Dealing Global Competition in State Bank Indonesia (Persero) Tbk Banda Aceh Branch Office
Authors: Dianto Erry , Anwar Saibul , Husnawati Husnawati , Zurnalis Zurnalis
Published: May 2020

This study aims to analyze the marketing strategy of BNI Credit Cards in the face of global competition at PT. Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk Banda Aceh Branch Office. This study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive type where the type of data used is secondary data sourced from various reports and documentation from PT. Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk Banda Aceh Branch Office. The results of this study indicate that in marketing BNI Banda Aceh Branch credit cards a strategy that can be used is a marketing strategy that differentiates the market (Differentiated marketing), which is to determine the target market segmentation in accordance with the target types of credit card products that are in accordance with the segmentation. The Banda Aceh BNI branch also uses a concentrated marketing strategy such as the marketing of BNI-Unsyiah affinity Credit Cards which is focused on alumni of Syiah Kuala University throughout Indonesia. Besides that, another strategy used by the Banda Aceh BNI branch in marketing BNI Credit Cards is by issuing pre aproval credit cards, where certain customers in accordance with applicable regulations are directly proposed to issue credit cards on behalf of these customers, if the customer agrees for card issuance, the card can be activated immediately. Furthermore, BNI provides the convenience of non-cash transactions through the YAP (Your All Payment) application as a payment tool for (cashless) and without showing the debit card or credit card (Cardless) through a smartphone. This YAP application is an advantage owned by BNI and the first in Indonesia.
Understanding Creolization Through Contextualization and Decontextualization Of Objects Found on Reunion Island
Authors: Sally Guilloux-Cooke
Published: May 2020

This ethnographic study is looking at objects to understand the Creolization process on Reunion Island. Objects evoke memory, emotion, imagination and validation. On Reunion Island, objects from the past, such as during the period of slavery and marronage, have very often disappeared or left little trace of their existence. This void has sometimes been interpreted as a part of a ‘veil of silence’ on the island around this painful part of history. However, there are some objects, which were intended for use in one context that have been (and are still being) decontextualized and put to use in totally new contexts. At the same time, this process of contextualization and decontextualization can be applied to the creation of a recently discovered Kingdom of Marons, which existed in the centre of the island for over 200 years. Where the original names in old Malgasy, which many of the slaves spoke, were turned into similar sounding French words. This decontextualized the meaning and the original context. We can also apply the same decontextualization process to objects such as the Alambic, originally used for distilling rum and later for essential oils. Sabres used as sacred objects in ceremonies on Reunion Island, began their life as recycled suspension metal from old trucks used to transport sugar cane. An examination of these practices and the role contextualization and decontextualization plays is a means to understand the process of Creolization on Reunion.
The Study of the Late Mediaeval Temple Architectures of Tripura (The North Eastern State of India)- A Style Evolved Due to the Multi-Cultural Assimilation During the Manikya Period
Authors: Mandira Dasgupta
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study is to show the assimilated styles, motifs and designs of the Late Mediaeval Temple Architectures of Tripura. Like the other parts of India, Tripura has been an important centre of interaction of several cultures and traditions. The state is a home to numerous Tribes having different traditions and cultures. Therefore there is a wide variety in the life style and cultures of this state. Due to the friendly nature of the Manikya kings, the state was globally well connected. In the Royal courtyard, many scholars, artists, architects and other literates were invited for cultural exchanges at that time. We can see the influences of those sharing thoughts in the Architectures of this state. The temples constructed during the late 15th-16th century exhibits motifs influenced from the Indo-Islamic architectures, Bengal temples, Indo- Burmese style and other indigenous elements of this region. These temples reflect a synthesis of the arts, ideas, religious beliefs, values and the way of life during the Manikya ages.
Effects of oyster age on selective suspension-feeding and the chemical composition of biodeposits: insights from fatty acid analysis
Authors: Sakamaki T , Hayashi K , Zheng Y , Fujibayashi M , Nishimura O
Published: May 2020

The study objective was to clarify how the growth stages of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas affect selective suspension-feeding of particulate organic matter (POM) and the composition of biodeposits. A day-long (22 h), continuous-flow mesocosm experiment was conducted with 3, 15, and 27 mo old oysters. The suspended particulate matter (PM), settled PM (mostly biodeposits in the oyster mesocosms), and oyster soft tissues were analysed to determine the content of fatty acids, organic carbon, and nitrogen, as well as the carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios to trace compositional changes in POM through oyster biodeposition. Regardless of oyster age, the stable isotope ratios of biodeposits were similar to those of the body tissues but not to those of the suspended PM, indicating that oysters selectively fed on assimilable fractions of POM. Compared with the suspended PM, a higher concentration of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids was found in the body tissues and, consequently, in the biodeposits; in contrast, the concentrations of shorter-chain fatty acids were generally lower in the biodeposits. Furthermore, the biodeposits produced by the older oysters had higher carbon, nitrogen, and fatty acid contents compared with the biodeposits produced by the 3 mo old oysters. The oxygen consumption rate of biodeposits was positively related to organic carbon content, but less so to fatty acid composition. Our findings demonstrate that older oysters not only produce larger amounts of biodeposits, but that these biodeposits have higher organic and fatty acid contents, potentially exhibiting greater effects on biogeochemical and ecological processes in nearby benthic habitats.
Theory of the Gestapo
Authors: Zack Aaron
Published: May 2020

In the 20th Century, implementing a utopian- totalitarian ideology required a Gestapo. The decisive bearer of such utopian ideologies was the party, not the state. As the preeminent agent of the totalitarian party, a secret political police surveilled and destroyed networks of resistance, and, through perceived omniscience, reshaped and formed the identity of its subject population. The ultimate target of a Gestapo was not only resistant action, but thought and the mind. Nonetheless, although effective, a mid-20th Century Gestapo was limited by the technology of its day. In contrast, the contemporary migration of thought, organization and action from the physical to the ‘virtual’ world has increased the potential for politically significant surveillance. This paper will contribute towards a theory of the Gestapo, and consider whether a developing utopian ideology and advancing surveillance technologies presage the likely emergence of new Gestapos.
Cytotoxicity and Collagen Expression Effects of Tideglusib Administration on Human Periodontal Cells: An In-Vitro Study
Authors: ONCU Buse , YİLMAZ Ayse , KARADEMİR Betul , ALTUNOK Elif Çiğdem , KURU Leyla , AĞRALI Ömer Birkan
Published: May 2020

Objective: Tideglusib is a GSK-3 inhibitor activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway which has significant importance in regenerative response.The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and protein expression impacts of Tideglusib on human periodontal cell lines.Methods: Cytotoxicity effect of different concentrations (50nM, 100nM, 200nM) of Tideglusib application on human gingival fibroblast (hGF),periodontal ligament fibroblast (hPDLF), and osteoblast (hOB) cell lines was determined. Type-I and III collagen expressions were evaluatedafter 24-hour application of 50nM Tideglusib.Results: The cytotoxicity of 200nM Tideglusib was higher in hGF and hOB (p<0.05), but no difference was found in hPDLF compared to therespective control group (p>0.05). The hGF and hOB treated with 50nM Tideglusib expressed an increased level of Type-I collagen (p<0.05), butno difference was detected in the hPDLF compared to the respective control (p>0.05). Type-III collagen expressions were similar between thetest and control groups for each cell line (p>0.05).Conclusion: Tideglusib is not cytotoxic at 50nM and 100nM concentrations and may have positive effect on bone regeneration rather thanperiodontal regeneration since it stimulated Type-I collagen production in hGF and hOB cells, but not in hPDLF.
Assessment and evaluation of errors in tooth preparation by undergraduate students: an institution based in-vitro study
Authors: Krishnamurthy Jyothsna , Bharanija K. , Reddy Krishna , Annapoorni H.
Published: May 2020

Aim: To assess the errors made during preclinical tooth preparation by the undergraduate students of Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital, Chennai.

Objectives: To understand the reason, nature and frequency of the errors occurring during tooth preparation done by undergraduate dental students during their preclinical practice.

Materials and Methods: A total of hundred samples were collected from the undergraduate students. All the samples were upper right central incisors (11) typodont teeth, prepared to receive an All-ceramic crown. All the samples were prepared by mounting the typodont (NISSIN Typodont Jaw Model) on a phantom head simulator. All the preparations were made as freehand preparations. The following aspects of the preparation were evaluated:
1. Facial and palatal reduction
2. Occlusal clearance
3. Finish line width
The evaluation of all the three aspects was done by studying a cross-section of an impression made on the prepared tooth. The impressions were made using a hard splint, which was fabricated on the typodont jaw model, prior to tooth preparation, as an impression tray. The impression material used was Light body(Zhermack Elite HD – Light normal set) impression material

Results: The measurements and values obtained were subjected to statistical analysis to obtain the final result. Regarding the amount of prepared tooth surface, the frequency of errors encountered was more with regard to palatal reduction. Regarding the width of the finish line, Labial aspect of the finish line was most commonly under prepared.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of the study, the main recommendation is to increase the pre-clinical practice time to emphasise more on the clinical expertise and the importance of proper operator positioning during tooth preparation.

Key Words:Tooth preparation, All-ceramic restorations, Errors
The Psychometric Properties of the Grit-O Scale Within the Twente Region in Netherlands: An ICM-CFA vs. ESEM Approach
Authors: van Zyl Llewellyn E. , Olckers Chantal , Roll Lara C.
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties (i.e., factorial validity, measurement invariance, and reliability) of the Grit-Original scale (Grit-O) within the Netherlands. The Grit-O scale was subjected to a competing measurement modeling strategy that sequentially compared both independent cluster model confirmatory factor analytical- and exploratory structural equation modeling approaches. The results showed that both a two first order, bi-factor structure as well as a less restrictive two factor ESEM factorial structure best-fitted the data. The instrument showed to be reliable at both a lower- (Cronbach’s alpha) and upper-level (composite reliability) limit. However, measurement invariance between genders could only be established for the B-ICM-CFA model. Finally, concurrent validity was established through relating the GRIT-O to task performance. The linear use of the Grit-O scale should therefore carefully be considered.
Pesticide Residues in Some Polish Herbs
Authors: Kowalska Grażyna
Published: May 2020

In the presented study a total of 104 samples of herbal material (herbage of thyme, savory, sage, rock rose, marjoram, horsetail, oregano, basil; seeds of flax; roots of liquorice, valerian and lovage, flowers of coneflower and camomile and fruits of fennel and caraway) were analysed for the content of 250 pesticides. Residues of 16 pesticides were identified in 72.1% of the analysed herbal samples. In 11 of the analysed samples of thyme herbage and in one sample of basil herbage concentrations exceeding the maximum allowable levels were demonstrated. Residues of the identified substances were detected most frequently in samples of thyme (66.34%), compared to the other groups of analysed herbal material where the percentage share of samples containing the compounds sought was at the level of approximately 20%.
Soil Carbon Sequestration in Rainfed and Irrigated Production Systems in a New Brazilian Agricultural Frontier
Authors: Campos Rafaella , Pires Gabrielle Ferreira , Costa Marcos Heil
Published: May 2020

Western Bahia, part of a large Brazilian agricultural frontier, is located mainly in fragile, sandy soils in a tropical seasonal climate with dry winters, characteristics that facilitate soil carbon loss. This study evaluates whether rainfed and irrigated agriculture in Western Bahia were able to sequester carbon and re-establish the soil organic carbon content (SOCC) lost due to land use change. Between 2010 and 2018, a total of 5469 soil samples were collected in the 0.00–0.20 m soil layer from nine farms and were used to calculate the annual rate of SOCC variation. The most recent SOCC measured in plots where land use change occurred 20 years ago was compared with the SOCC measured in areas of native vegetation (Cerrado). Results showed that (i) irrigated sandy agricultural lands replenished SOCC to the level observed in native vegetation by 20 years after a land use change event and are still capturing carbon at a significant rate, (ii) clayey, rainfed agricultural lands also sequester carbon, but these soils are not representative of the region, and (iii) sandy, rainfed agricultural lands, the predominant soil type and management practice in Western Bahia, are not a sink of CO2.
Network Organization of Antibody Interactions in Sequence and Structure Space: the RADARS Model
Authors: Prechl József
Published: May 2020

Adaptive immunity in vertebrates is a complex self-organizing network of molecular interactions. While deep sequencing of the immune-receptor repertoire may reveal clonal relationships, functional interpretation of such data is hampered by the inherent limitations of converting sequence to structure to function. In this paper, a novel model of antibody interaction space and network, termed radial adjustment of system resolution, RAdial ADjustment of System Resolution (RADARS), is proposed. The model is based on the radial growth of interaction affinity of antibodies towards an infinity of directions in structure space, each direction corresponding to particular shapes of antigen epitopes. Levels of interaction affinity appear as free energy shells of the system, where hierarchical B-cell development and differentiation takes place. Equilibrium in this immunological thermodynamic system can be described by a power law distribution of antibody-free energies with an ideal network degree exponent of phi square, representing a scale-free fractal network of antibody interactions. Plasma cells are network hubs, memory B cells are nodes with intermediate degrees, and B1 cells function as nodes with minimal degree. Overall, the RADARS model implies that a finite number of antibody structures can interact with an infinite number of antigens by immunologically controlled adjustment of interaction energy distribution. Understanding quantitative network properties of the system should help the organization of sequence-derived predicted structural data.
Bacteriophage Therapy for Critical Infections Related to Cardiothoracic Surgery
Authors: Rubalskii Evgenii , Ruemke Stefan , Salmoukas Christina , Boyle Erin C. , Warnecke Gregor , Tudorache Igor , Shrestha Malakh , Schmitto Jan D. , Martens Andreas , Rojas Sebastian V. , Ziesing Stefan , Bochkareva Svetlana , Kuehn Christian , Haverich Axel
Published: May 2020

(1) Objective: Bacterial resistance to conventional antibiotic therapy is an increasingly significant worldwide challenge to human health. The objective is to evaluate whether bacteriophage therapy could complement or be a viable alternative to conventional antibiotic therapy in critical cases of bacterial infection related to cardiothoracic surgery. (2) Methods: Since September 2015, eight patients with multi-drug resistant or especially recalcitrant Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli infections were treated with bacteriophage preparations as a therapy of last resort according to Article 37 of the Declaration of Helsinki. Patients had infections associated with immunosuppression after organ transplantation or had infections of vascular grafts, implanted medical devices, and surgical wounds. Individualized phage preparations were administered locally, orally, or via inhalation for different durations depending on the case. All patients remained on conventional antibiotics during bacteriophage treatment. (3) Results: Patients ranged in age from 13 to 66 years old (average 48.5 ± 16.7) with seven males and one female. Eradication of target bacteria was reached in seven of eight patients. No severe adverse side effects were observed. (4) Conclusions: Phage therapy can effectively treat bacterial infections related to cardiothoracic surgery when conventional antibiotic therapy fails.
Aerobic Exercise and Healthy Nutrition as Neuroprotective Agents for Brain Health in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Critical Review of the Literature
Authors: Cammisuli Davide Maria , Bonuccelli Ubaldo , Daniele Simona , Martini Claudia , Fusi Jonathan , Franzoni Ferdinando
Published: May 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by motor and nonmotor features that have an influence on patients’ quality of life at different levels. To date, some evidences have arisen on the effectiveness of physical trainings and nutrients intake in ameliorating functional and cognitive outcomes in PD patients. Physical activity is effective in improving both motor and nonmotor features and recent epidemiological investigations have revealed the pivotal role that dietary patterns may play in reducing the risk of PD highlighting the pathogenesis of the neurodegeneration. Specifically, aerobic exercise shows beneficial effects in improving motor functions and executive control in PD patients, as well as proper nutrition may help in improving neuroprotective agents counteracting neurodegeneration and allows patients to better interact with the medication. Our narrative review critically focused on aerobic exercise and nutrition in PD in order to point out the best prescriptions for brain health of affected patients. Implications for a therapeutic plan and rehabilitation for these patients are also discussed.
Pathways of 4-Hydroxy-2-Nonenal Detoxification in a Human Astrocytoma Cell Line
Authors: Peroni Eleonora , Scali Viola , Balestri Francesco , Cappiello Mario , Mura Umberto , Del Corso Antonella , Moschini Roberta
Published: May 2020

One of the consequences of the increased level of oxidative stress that often characterizes the cancer cell environment is the abnormal generation of lipid peroxidation products, above all 4-hydroxynonenal. The contribution of this aldehyde to the pathogenesis of several diseases is well known. In this study, we characterized the ADF astrocytoma cell line both in terms of its pattern of enzymatic activities devoted to 4-hydroxynonenal removal and its resistance to oxidative stress induced by exposure to hydrogen peroxide. A comparison with lens cell lines, which, due to the ocular function, are normally exposed to oxidative conditions is reported. Our results show that, overall, ADF cells counteract oxidative stress conditions better than normal cells, thus confirming the redox adaptation demonstrated for several cancer cells. In addition, the markedly high level of NADP+-dependent dehydrogenase activity acting on the glutahionyl-hydroxynonanal adduct detected in ADF cells may promote, at the same time, the detoxification and recovery of cell-reducing power in these cells.
Development of an Analytical Assay for Electrochemical Detection and Quantification of Protein-Bound 3-Nitrotyrosine in Biological Samples and Comparison with Classical, Antibody-Based Methods
Authors: Vujacic-Mirski Ksenija , Bruns Kai , Kalinovic Sanela , Oelze Matthias , Kröller-Schön Swenja , Steven Sebastian , Mojovic Milos , Korac Bato , Münzel Thomas , Daiber Andreas
Published: May 2020

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) cause oxidative damage, which is associated with endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease, but may also contribute to redox signaling. Therefore, their precise detection is important for the evaluation of disease mechanisms. Here, we compared three different methods for the detection of 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT), a marker of nitro-oxidative stress, in biological samples. Nitrated proteins were generated by incubation with peroxynitrite or 3-morpholino sydnonimine (Sin-1) and subjected to total hydrolysis using pronase, a mixture of different proteases. The 3-NT was then separated by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and quantified by electrochemical detection (ECD, CoulArray) and compared to classical methods, namely enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and dot blot analysis using specific 3-NT antibodies. Calibration curves for authentic 3-NT (detection limit 10 nM) and a concentration-response pattern for 3-NT obtained from digested nitrated bovine serum albumin (BSA) were highly linear over a wide 3-NT concentration range. Also, ex vivo nitration of protein from heart, isolated mitochondria, and serum/plasma could be quantified using the HPLC/ECD method and was confirmed by LC-MS/MS. Of note, nitro-oxidative damage of mitochondria results in increased superoxide (O2•–) formation rates (measured by dihydroethidium-based HPLC assay), pointing to a self-amplification mechanism of oxidative stress. Based on our ex vivo data, the CoulArray quantification method for 3-NT seems to have some advantages regarding sensitivity and selectivity. Establishing a reliable automated HPLC assay for the routine quantification of 3-NT in biological samples of cell culture, of animal and human origin seems to be more sophisticated than expected.
Solving Backward Heat Conduction Problems Using a Novel Space–Time Radial Polynomial Basis Function Collocation Method
Authors: Ku Cheng-Yu , Liu Chih-Yu , Xiao Jing-En , Chen Ming-Ren
Published: May 2020

In this article, a novel meshless method using space–time radial polynomial basis function (SRPBF) for solving backward heat conduction problems is proposed. The SRPBF is constructed by incorporating time-dependent exponential function into the radial polynomial basis function. Different from the conventional radial basis function (RBF) collocation method that applies the RBF at each center point coinciding with the inner point, an innovative source collocation scheme using the sources instead of the centers is first developed for the proposed method. The randomly unstructured source, boundary, and inner points are collocated in the space–time domain, where both boundary as well as initial data may be regarded as space–time boundary conditions. The backward heat conduction problem is converted into an inverse boundary value problem such that the conventional time–marching scheme is not required. Because the SRPBF is infinitely differentiable and the corresponding derivative is a nonsingular and smooth function, solutions can be approximated by applying the SRPBF without the shape parameter. Numerical examples including the direct and backward heat conduction problems are conducted. Results show that more accurate numerical solutions than those of the conventional methods are obtained. Additionally, it is found that the error does not propagate with time such that absent temperature on the inaccessible boundaries can be recovered with high accuracy.
A Novel Method of Calibrating Micro-Scale Parameters of PFC Model and Experimental Validation
Authors: Wu Hao , Dai Bing , Zhao Guoyan , Chen Ying , Tian Yakun
Published: May 2020

As a powerful numerical analysis tool, PFC (Particle Flow Code) is widely applied to investigate the mechanical behavior of rock specimen or rock engineering under different stress states. To match the macroscopic properties of the PFC model with those of the rock, a set of micro-scale parameters of the model needs to be calibrated. Thus, this paper proposed an optimization method combining Box–Behnken experimental design and desirability function approach to quickly and accurately find the values of the micro-scale parameters. The sensitivity of the main micro-scale parameters (mean value of parallel-bond normal strength σc, ratio of particle normal to shear stiffness Ec, and Young’s modulus at each particle–particle contact kn/ks) and their interactions to the macroscopic responses (uniaxial compressive strength, Young’s modulus, and Poisson’s ratio) were thoroughly analyzed using response surface theory. After that, validation study was conducted on the calibrated model. The results manifest that the uniaxial compressive strength is extremely significantly affected by σc and kn/ks, the Young’s modulus is highly correlated with Ec and kn/ks, and the Poisson’s ratio is most significantly influenced by kn/ks. Additionally, the interaction of micro-scale parameters also has different impact upon the responses. Moreover, the simulated crack behavior around differently shaped openings in rock samples under uniaxial compression is found to be well agreeable with the experimental results, which verifies the reliability of the proposed method.
Linking Singular Spectrum Analysis and Machine Learning for Monthly Rainfall Forecasting
Authors: Bojang Pa Ousman , Yang Tao-Chang , Pham Quoc Bao , Yu Pao-Shan
Published: May 2020

Monthly rainfall forecasts can be translated into monthly runoff predictions that could support water resources planning and management activities. Therefore, development of monthly rainfall forecasting models in reservoir watersheds is essential for generating future rainfall amounts as an input to a water-resources-system simulation model to predict water shortage conditions. This research aims to examine the reliability of linking a data preprocessing method (singular spectrum analysis, SSA) with machine learning, least-squares support vector regression (LS-SVR), and random forest (RF), for monthly rainfall forecasting in two reservoir watersheds (Deji and Shihmen reservoir watersheds) located in Taiwan. Merging SSA with LS-SVR and RF, the hybrid models (SSA-LSSVR and SSA-RF) were developed and compared with the standard models (LS-SVR and RF). The proposed models were calibrated and validated using the watersheds’ observed areal monthly rainfalls separated into 70 percent of data for calibration and 30 percent of data for validation. Model performances were evaluated using two accuracy measures, root mean square error (RMSE) and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE). Results show that the hybrid models could efficiently forecast monthly rainfalls. Nonetheless, the performances of the hybrid models vary in both watersheds which suggests that prior knowledge about the watershed’s hydrological behavior would be helpful to implement the appropriate model. Overall, the hybrid models significantly surpass the standard models for the two studied watersheds, which indicates that the proposed models are a prudent modeling approach that could be employed in the current research regions for monthly rainfall forecasting.
Optimal Design of Cantilever Soldier Pile Retaining Walls Embedded in Frictional Soils with Harmony Search Algorithm
Authors: Bekdaş Gebrail , Arama Zülal Akbay , Kayabekir Aylin Ece , Geem Zong Woo
Published: May 2020

In this paper, the design of cantilever soldier pile retaining walls embedded in frictional soils is investigated within the insight of an optimization algorithm to acquire cost and dimension equilibrium by ensuring both geotechnical and structural requirements simultaneously. Multivariate parametric analyses with different fictionalized cases are performed to evaluate the effects of design variants and to compare the effectiveness of the preference of optimization solutions rather than detailed advanced modeling software. The harmony search algorithm is used to conduct parametrical analyses to take into consideration the effects of the change of excavation depth, shear strength angle, and unit weight of soil, external loading condition, and coefficient of soil reaction. The embedment depth and diameter of the soldier pile are searched as design dimensions, and the total cost of a cantilever soldier pile wall is calculated as an objective function. The design dimension results of the parametric optimization analysis are used to perform finite element analysis with a well-known commercial geotechnical analysis software. The results of optimization and finite element solutions are compared with the use of maximum bending moment, factor of safety, and pivot point location values. As the consequence of the study, the influence rates of design variants are procured, and the effectiveness of the usage of optimization algorithms for both cost and dimensional equilibrium is presented.
Acquired Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Blockade Therapies
Authors: Zhao Xianda , Wangmo Dechen , Robertson Matthew , Subramanian Subbaya
Published: May 2020

Immune checkpoint blockade therapy (ICBT) has revolutionized the treatment and management of numerous cancers, yet a substantial proportion of patients who initially respond to ICBT subsequently develop resistance. Comprehensive genomic analysis of samples from recent clinical trials and pre-clinical investigation in mouse models of cancer provide insight into how tumors evade ICBT after an initial response to treatment. Here, we summarize our current knowledge on the development of acquired ICBT resistance, by examining the mechanisms related to tumor-intrinsic properties, T-cell function, and tumor-immune cell interactions. We discuss current and future management of ICBT resistance, and consider crucial questions remaining in this field of acquired resistance to immune checkpoint blockade therapies.
APC Mutation Marks an Aggressive Subtype of BRAF Mutant Colorectal Cancers
Authors: Fennell Lochlan J. , Kane Alexandra , Liu Cheng , McKeone Diane , Fernando Winnie , Su Chang , Bond Catherine , Jamieson Saara , Dumenil Troy , Patch Ann-Marie , Kazakoff Stephen H. , Pearson John V. , Waddell Nicola , Leggett Barbara , Whitehall Vicki L. J.
Published: May 2020

Background: WNT activation is a hallmark of colorectal cancer. BRAF mutation is present in 15% of colorectal cancers, and the role of mutations in WNT signaling regulators in this context is unclear. Here, we evaluate the mutational landscape of WNT signaling regulators in BRAF mutant cancers. Methods: we performed exome-sequencing on 24 BRAF mutant colorectal cancers and analyzed these data in combination with 175 publicly available BRAF mutant colorectal cancer exomes. We assessed the somatic mutational landscape of WNT signaling regulators, and performed hotspot and driver mutation analyses to identify potential drivers of WNT signaling. The effects of Apc and Braf mutation were modelled, in vivo, using the Apcmin/+ and BrafV637/Villin-CreERT2/+ mouse, respectively. Results: RNF43 was the most frequently mutated WNT signaling regulator (41%). Mutations in the beta-catenin destruction complex occurred in 48% of cancers. Hotspot analyses identified potential cancer driver genes in the WNT signaling cascade, including MEN1, GNG12 and WNT16. Truncating APC mutation was identified in 20.8% of cancers. Truncating APC mutation was associated with early age at diagnosis (p < 2 × 10−5), advanced stage (p < 0.01), and poor survival (p = 0.026). Apcmin/+/BrafV637 animals had more numerous and larger SI and colonic lesions (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.05, respectively), and a markedly reduced survival (median survival: 3.2 months, p = 8.8 × 10−21), compared to animals with Apc or Braf mutation alone. Conclusions: the WNT signaling axis is frequently mutated in BRAF mutant colorectal cancers. WNT16 and MEN1 may be novel drivers of aberrant WNT signaling in colorectal cancer. Co-mutation of BRAF and APC generates an extremely aggressive neoplastic phenotype that is associated with poor patient outcome.
Breast Fibroblasts and ECM Components Modulate Breast Cancer Cell Migration through the Secretion of MMPs in a 3D Microfluidic Co-Culture Model
Authors: Lugo-Cintrón Karina M. , Gong Max M. , Ayuso José M. , Tomko Lucas A. , Beebe David J. , Virumbrales-Muñoz María , Ponik Suzanne M.
Published: May 2020

The extracellular matrix (ECM) composition greatly influences cancer progression, leading to differential invasion, migration, and metastatic potential. In breast cancer, ECM components, such as fibroblasts and ECM proteins, have the potential to alter cancer cell migration. However, the lack of in vitro migration models that can vary ECM composition limits our knowledge of how specific ECM components contribute to cancer progression. Here, a microfluidic model was used to study the effect of 3D heterogeneous ECMs (i.e., fibroblasts and different ECM protein compositions) on the migration distance of a highly invasive human breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231. Specifically, we show that in the presence of normal breast fibroblasts, a fibronectin-rich matrix induces more cancer cell migration. Analysis of the ECM revealed the presence of ECM tunnels. Likewise, cancer-stromal crosstalk induced an increase in the secretion of metalloproteinases (MMPs) in co-cultures. When MMPs were inhibited, migration distance decreased in all conditions except for the fibronectin-rich matrix in the co-culture with human mammary fibroblasts (HMFs). This model mimics the in vivo invasion microenvironment, allowing the examination of cancer cell migration in a relevant context. In general, this data demonstrates the capability of the model to pinpoint the contribution of different components of the tumor microenvironment (TME).
Kinetics of the Catalytic Thermal Degradation of Sugarcane Residual Biomass Over Rh-Pt/CeO2-SiO2 for Syngas Production
Authors: Quiroga Eliana , Moltó Julia , Conesa Juan A. , Valero Manuel F. , Cobo Martha
Published: May 2020

Thermochemical processes for biomass conversion are promising to produce renewable hydrogen-rich syngas. In the present study, model fitting methods were used to propose thermal degradation kinetics during catalytic and non-catalytic pyrolysis (in N2) and combustion (in synthetic air) of sugarcane residual biomass. Catalytic processes were performed over a Rh-Pt/CeO2-SiO2 catalyst and the models were proposed based on the Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis, TG coupled to Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectrometry (TG-FTIR) and TG coupled to mass spectrometry (TG-MS). Results showed three different degradation stages and a catalyst effect on product distribution. In pyrolysis, Rh-Pt/CeO2-SiO2 catalyst promoted reforming reactions which increased the presence of H2. Meanwhile, during catalytic combustion, oxidation of the carbon and hydrogen present in biomass favored the release of H2O, CO and CO2. Furthermore, the catalyst decreased the overall activation energies of pyrolysis and combustion from 120.9 and 154.9 kJ mol−1 to 107.0 and 138.0 kJ mol−1, respectively. Considering the positive effect of the Rh-Pt/CeO2-SiO2 catalyst during pyrolysis of sugarcane residual biomass, it could be considered as a potential catalyst to improve the thermal degradation of biomass for syngas production. Moreover, the proposed kinetic parameters are useful to design an appropriate thermochemical unit for H2-rich syngas production as a non-conventional energy technology.
Current State of the Art of the Solid Rh-Based Catalyzed Hydroformylation of Short-Chain Olefins
Authors: Hanf Schirin , Alvarado Rupflin Luis , Gläser Roger , Schunk Stephan
Published: May 2020

The hydroformylation of olefins is one of the most important homogeneously catalyzed processes in industry to produce bulk chemicals. Despite the high catalytic activities and selectivity’s using rhodium-based homogeneous hydroformylation catalysts, catalyst recovery and recycling from the reaction mixture remain a challenging topic on a process level. Therefore, technical solutions involving alternate approaches with heterogeneous catalysts for the conversion of olefins into aldehydes have been considered and research activities have addressed the synthesis and development of heterogeneous rhodium-based hydroformylation catalysts. Different strategies were pursued by different groups of authors, such as the deposition of molecular rhodium complexes, metallic rhodium nanoparticles and single-atom catalysts on a solid support as well as rhodium complexes present in supported liquids. An overview of the recent developments made in the area of the heterogenization of homogeneous rhodium catalysts and their application in the hydroformylation of short-chain olefins is given. A special focus is laid on the mechanistic understanding of the heterogeneously catalyzed reactions at a molecular level in order to provide a guide for the future design of rhodium-based heterogeneous hydroformylation catalysts.
Design of Experiment for the Optimization of Pesticide Removal from Wastewater by Photo-Electrochemical Oxidation with TiO2 Nanotubes
Authors: Vacca Annalisa , Mais Laura , Mascia Michele , Usai Elisabetta Maria , Palmas Simonetta
Published: May 2020

The Design of Experiment (DoE) technique has been used to investigate the photo-electrochemical removal of diuron (DRN) from wastewater. The process is carried out in a photo-electrochemical flow reactor, in which titania nanotubular electrode is irradiated with a simulated solar light. Different operative conditions have been investigated, in a planned 23 full factorial design in which imposed current density, flow rate and initial concentration have been varied at two levels. The removal process of DRN was investigated in terms of specific removal rate (K) and cell voltage (E), which were assumed as objective functions: the results show that the applied current has a paramount effect on both of the objective functions. From the analyses of the intermediates, it appears that the investigated parameters may exert different effects on the distribution of the reaction products: the initial concentration of diuron and the electrode potential seem to play a more important role, in this case.
Robustness of the Link between Precipitation in North Africa and Standard Modes of Atmospheric Variability during the Last Millennium
Authors: Djebbar Arab , Goosse Hugues , Klein François
Published: May 2020

Drought is a recurring phenomenon in North Africa, and extended dry periods can have a serious impact on economic and social structures, as well as the natural environment. Consequently, understanding the mechanisms that underlie precipitation variability in the region is a key driver of sustainable economic growth in activities such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and transport. North Africa’s climate differs significantly between coastal and inland areas. The region has a Mediterranean climate along the coast, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers with reasonable rainfall of around 400 to 600 mm per year. The link between winter precipitation variability in this region and atmospheric patterns is assessed here using several gridded datasets of observations and reanalysis as well as model simulations from the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) and the third phase of the Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project (PMIP) covering the last millennium. Results show that the link between the zonal wind index at 850 hPa (U850) and winter precipitation is stronger and more robust over time than the link with some well-known modes of variability, such as the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), Mediterranean Oscillation (MO), and Western Mediterranean Oscillation (WeMO). U850 better explains the interannual changes in winter precipitation variability in North Africa for the past decades as well as the last millennium. Both winter precipitation and U850 simulated time series present significant decreasing trends, associated with drier conditions, starting in the 19th century. This is in agreement with the reconstructed and simulated Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI), which shows a decreasing trend toward drying conditions in North Africa.
A Full Diagnostic Process for the Orthodontic Treatment Strategy: A Documented Case Report
Authors: Lo Giudice Antonino , Rustico Lorenzo , Ronsivalle Vincenzo , Spinuzza Paola , Polizzi Alessandro , Bellocchio Angela Mirea , Scapellato Simone , Portelli Marco , Nucera Riccardo
Published: May 2020

The need for extractions in orthodontic treatment has always been a controversial topic. However, to date there is not a specific clinical guideline that can help the clinicians deciding to plan an extractive or a non-extractive orthodontic treatment. In this respect, clinicians must deal with patients’ occlusal, functional, periodontal and aesthetics characteristics before planning an orthodontic treatment including extraction. Considering the absence of specific guidelines, the choice to extract teeth or not is complicated, particularly in borderline cases. In this case report, we present a borderline case of a patient with the skeletal Class III pattern and significant crowding in both arches that could be treated with or without extraction, illustrating the diagnostic and decision-making processes that were conducted for the orthodontic treatment strategy.