bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Konsep Pendistribusian Kekayaan Menurut Al-Quran
Authors: Hidayat Taufik
Published: December 2017

Wealth according to the Qur'an: Distribution of current income is a very important thing. If the income distribution is not appropriate to do, then most of the income and resources would be controlled by the capitalist monopolies, resulting in many people remain in poverty despite the country having abundant resources. On these basic considerations can be affirmed that the welfare and prosperity of the people depend on the way how it should be equitable distribution system could be implemented.

Islam as a source of value to combine economic development with the religious sector. The activities of distribution of goods and services and income, shall use a value judgment mechanistic determinism of Islam and not the other economic systems such as capitalism and socialism. Separation of positive and normative values lead to human economic activity economic destructive animal.

The economic crisis that hit the Indonesian economy is the impact of the application of the system of political, legal, social system, education and the economy are not in accordance with value, impact on damage to ecosystems, forests, water pollution and the environment, and the process of structural poverty.
Reducing indicator organism E.coli in drinking water using Chitosan nano coated pot system: An inexpensive technique
Authors: A.Munusamy Murugan , Subbiah Suresh Kumar , Rajan Mariappan
Published: December 2017

In this study the drinking water is treated by nano coated pottery was produced by using chitosan nano particles prepared from marine crab shells. It is an alternative method for physical and chemical water treatment. In this experiment the low cost, non toxic and pollution free chitosan nano particles was prepared in laboratory level then it was integrated into existing traditional water storage pot system and through which indicator organism E.coli number was reduced effectively. The presence of nano sized particles in the prepared samples and capacity of integration and elution of nano particles in the pot systems were determined by XRD and AFMN and N2 compound elementary analysis method respectively. The result from this experiment showed that compared with control pot system the chitosan coated pot has more potential for reducing indicator microorganisms E.coli in the water sample. Also, it was concluded that this low cost and pollution free technology is suitable for purification of contaminated water sample in rural as well as urban areas. However it has some limitations that will be overcome by further research.
QUANDO MEU NOME NÃO ME REPRESENTA: QUESTÕES JURÍDICAS ATUAIS SOBRE O DIREITO AO NOME SOCIAL
Authors: BRITO NARÚBIA OLIVEIRA , CABRAL NURIA MICHELINE MENESES , DA PAIXÃO ALESSANDRO GONÇALVES
Published: December 2017

O artigo se propõe a uma análise da transexualidade e suas repercussões no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro, sobretudo, no que diz respeito aos reflexos sobre os direitos da personalidade. Para imersão didática ao tema, foram realizadas duas sessões de entrevistas com mulheres transexuais e um médico cirurgião com especialidade em Feminização Facial. Serão apresentadas vinhetas ao longo do artigo com o objetivo de aproximar o leitor da realidade vivenciada ao público em questão.  O assunto abordado é atualmente de grande relevância nos meios científico e jurídico. O Poder Judiciário, progressivamente, vem sendo provocado com o desígnio de garantir acesso ao exercício da cidadania das pessoas transexuais. A identidade de gênero e o sexo estabelecem-se numa prática discursiva, e desse modo, construída historicamente, retratando a transexualidade como um fenômeno discursivo. São direitos fundamentais o direito ao próprio corpo e ao nome, e desta forma, devem ser reconhecidos independentemente de condições determinantes. À vista disso, faz-se necessário conceituar transexualidade para, posteriormente, expor os efeitos decorrentes da cirurgia de readequação sexual e da retificação do registro civil, em paralelo ao princípio da dignidade da pessoa humana.
On contact conformal curvature tensor in LP-Sasakian manifolds
Authors: Shah Riddhi Jung
Published: December 2017

The purpose of the present paper is to study the contact conformal curvature tensor in LP-Sasakian manifolds. Some properties of contact conformally flat, ξ -contact conformally flat and contact conformally semi-symmetric LP-Sasakian manifolds are obtained.BIBECHANA 15 (2018) 24-29
Design and development of low-range frequency modulated signal (F.M.) transmitter
Authors: Shrivastava Abhishek
Published: December 2017

Frequency Modulated (FM) signal transmitter is a small device that can transmit Frequency Modulated signal over short range. [1] This document consists of most simple and economical technique for building a FM transmitter using basic electronic components like resistor, capacitor, inductor etc. The FM transmitter receives human voice signals though microphone. It further amplifies it, modulate it over carrier and finally transmit it. Assuming favorable conditions, output of transmitter can be received by anyone who tunes it in frequency of our transmitter. Here, I have described Circuit diagram, its working, components required, uses of various components in our circuit, its practical applicability. The design is simulated using NI Multisim and is further implemented on bread-board. This design is capable of transmitting signal for distance of radius 20m, tuned at 97.1 MHz One could clearly hear sound produced at microphone of transmitter.BIBECHANA 15 (2018) 30-36
First-principles study of structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Co-based quaternary Heusler compounds: CoFeCrAl, CoFeTiAs, CoFeCrGa and CoMnVAs
Authors: Pandey Bikram , Ray Ram Babu , Kaphle Gopi Chandra
Published: December 2017

We study the Structural, Electronic and Magnetic properties of Co-based LiMgPdSn-types of quaternary Heusler compounds (CoFeCrAl, CoFeTiAs, CoFeCrGa, and CoMnVAS) using Density Functional Theory (DFT) implemented on Tight Binding Linear Muffin-Tin Orbital within Atomic Sphere Approximation(TB-LMTO-ASA) Code. The optimized value of lattice parameter for CoFeCrAl, CoFeTiAs, CoFeCrGa and CoMnVAs are found to be 5.61A˚, 5.76 A˚, 5.61A˚ and 5.71A˚ respectively. From the calculation of electronic band structure and spin polarized total density of states (DOS), we found that CoFeCrAl and CoFeCrGa are spin-gapless semiconductor with half-metallic gap of 0.82eV and 0.25eV respectively. CoFeTiAs half-metals (Nearly spin-gapless semiconductor) with half-metallic gap 0.38 eV and CoMnVAs is found to be nearly gapless half-metal. Magnetic moment of these compounds almost obey the Slater-Pauling rules. All these compounds  expected to have high curie temperature which makes them significant for spintroincs/magnetoelectroincs applications.BIBECHANA 15 (2018) 50-59
Analytical approximate solution of higher order boundary value problems via variational iteration method
Authors: Ahmad Jamshad , Hamid Zobia
Published: December 2017

In this paper, application of variational iteration method has been successfully extended to obtain approximate solutions of some higher order boundary value problems. We emphasize the power of the method by testing three different mathematical models of distinct orders. The results are obtained by using only little iteration.  BIBECHANA 15 (2018) 37-42
NBO, nonlinear optical and thermodynamic properties of 10-Acetyl-10H-phenothiazine 5-oxide
Authors: Joshi Bhawani Datt , Chaudhary Manoj Kumar
Published: December 2017

In this paper, natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis, nonlinear optical and the thermodynamic properties of 10-Acetyl-10H-phenothiazine 5-oxide have been analyzed by employing density functional theory level employing 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. NBO analysis reveals that the intra- intermolecular charge transfer occurs within the molecule leading to the stabilization. The predicted nonlinear optical properties (NLO) like; polarizability and first hyperpolarizabiliy support that the molecule could attract the interests for future investigation.BIBECHANA 15 (2018) 131-139
Physical properties of dust particles around white dwarf in far infrared sky at 12.8o galactic latitude
Authors: Sapkota B B , Aryal B , Weinberger R
Published: December 2017

We study the  active region in the interstellar medium in which the process of cavity formation is expected. The interaction between wind and its surroundings in the interstellar medium (ISM) provides a laboratory to study the behavior of dust particles. The  information obtained from the dust colour temperature and dust mass of WD2116+675 will be presented. It is found that the dust colour temperature and dust mass lie in the range 20 K to 22.3 K and 2.1×1023 kg to 2.9×1023 kg  respectively. With the help of number density, flux density, dust colour temperature and dust mass maps, the  variation of  temperature and mass in different position of dust will be presented and discussed.  BIBECHANA 15 (2018) 43-49
Modeling equations to predict the mixing behaviours of Al−Fe liquid alloy at different temperatures
Authors: Yadav S K , Jha L N , Adhikari D
Published: December 2017

Redlich−Kister (R−K) polynomials have been associated with the extended regular associated solution model to predict and explain the thermodynamic properties and structural properties of Al−Fe liquid alloy at 1873 K, 1973 K, 2073 K and  2173 K; 1873 K being its melting temperature. The thermodynamic properties, such as free energy of mixing and activities of free monomers ( and ) and structural properties, such as concentration fluctuation in long wave length limit, chemical short range order parameter and ratio of diffusion coefficients ( have been predicted at above stated temperatures. Renovated Butler model has been employed to predict the surface tension and surface segregation of the alloy at stated temperatures with the help of thermodynamic properties. Theoretical findings prevail that the tendency towards compound formation of the liquid alloy decreases with increase in its temperature beyond melting temperature. Eventually, its surface tension decreases and there is gradual exchange of atoms between the surface and bulk regions to maintain equilibrium at elevated temperatures. The liquid alloy under investigation thus shows ideal behaviours at higher temperatures. BIBECHANA 15 (2018) 60-69
Réception de la littérature canadienne traduite vers le russe de 1945 à 1991 et représentations du Canada en URSS par le truchement de sa littérature
Authors: Sidorovskaya Zoya
Published: December 2017

Même si la littérature canadienne est à peu près inconnue en URSS pendant la Guerre froide (1945–1991), même si peu d’ouvrages d’auteurs canadiens y voient alors le jour en traduction russe et même si l’on ne trouve pas à proprement parler de recensions critiques sur ces ouvrages avant la pérestroïka des années 1980, la presse soviétique fait cependant référence pendant cette période à certains auteurs canadiens pour réaliser ses propres objectifs ou, mieux dit, les objectifs du parti communiste au pouvoir. Le présent article explore ainsi l’accueil réservé à la littérature canadienne en URSS pendant la Guerre froide et à quelles fins sert cette réception, puis présente les images du Canada telles qu’elles se trouvent projetées dans les comptes rendus d’ouvrages canadiens et dans les articles sur la littérature canadienne publiés dans des revues et des journaux russophones de l’époque. Les monographies sur la littérature canadienne parues en URSS en langue russe sont également abordées dans le présent article, afin de voir, entre autres, si les critiques soviétiques de l’époque de la Guerre froide établissent ou non une distinction entre la littérature canadienne-anglaise et la littérature canadienne-française (ou québécoise). Enfin, il est question ici de faire état des représentations de la littérature canadienne et de la société canadienne véhiculées par la presse soviétique, ainsi que de celles mises de l’avant par les monographies savantes des chercheurs russes de la période étudiée.
Functionalised Cookson's Diketones in Chlorosulfonic Acid: Towards Polysubstituted D3-Trishomocubanes
Authors: Zhyhadlo Yevheniia Y. , Gaidai Alexander V. , Sharapa Dmitry I. , Mitlenko Alena G. , Shishkin Oleg V. , Shishkina Svitlana V. , Levandovskiy Igor A. , Fokin Andrey A.
Published: December 2017

A number of Cookson's diketone ( Cs-trishomocubane-8,11-dione) derivatives were synthesised and introduced into the reaction with chlorosulfonic acid to give previously unknown polysubstituted D3-trishomocubanes (pentacyclo[6.3.0.02,6.03,10.05,9]undecanes) – chiral analogues of the parent cubanes. In the case of 1,9-dibromo- Cs-trishomocubane-8,11-dione, the reaction proceeded with conservation of both carbonyl groups selectively affording 3-bromo-6-chloro- D3-trishomocubane-4,7-dione whose distinct substitution pattern was confirmed by means of X-ray structural analysis.
Intensification of Organophosphorus Hydrolase Synthesis by Using Substances with Gas-Transport Function
Authors: Senko Olga , Stepanov Nikolay , Tyutyunov Andrey , Sterlin Sergey , Grinberg Vitaly , Makhlis Tatiana , Efremenko Elena
Published: December 2017

We have performed studies and comparative analysis of the biosynthesis characteristics of intracellular recombinant enzyme, such as hexahistidine-containing organophosphorus hydrolase (His6-OPH) in Escherichia coli SG13009[pREP4] cells when various perfluorocarbon compounds (PFC) were introduced into the medium for cell cultivation. The PFC were found to facilitate the biosynthesis of His6-OPH: increased levels of the total OPH-activity (up to 37%) were measured upon introduction of 1,1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,6-tetradecafluorohexane (PFH) and 4,7,10,13,16,19,22,25,28,31-decaoxaperfluoro-5,8,11,14,17,18,21,24,27,30-decamethyl tetratriacontane (Polyether II) into culture medium. We have demonstrated the possibility of effective and multiple (at least five-fold) use of PFH for biosynthesis of intracellular recombinant protein His6-OPH, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of organophosphorus pesticides (OP), is widely used in agriculture and can be applied as new antidote for OP-detoxification in vivo. The multiple use of PFH was achieved through recycling of this substance: sediment of Escherichia coli SG13009[pREP4] cell biomass was collected at the end of each culture growing step and disintegrated with ultrasound, and obtained residue containing almost all of the initially introduced PFC was then added to the medium at the start of the following culture growing step.
Plasmon Modulation Spectroscopy of Noble Metals to Reveal the Distribution of the Fermi Surface Electrons in the Conduction Band
Authors: Takagi Kentaro , Nair Selvakumar , Saito Jumpei , Seto Keisuke , Watanabe Ryosuke , Kobayashi Takayoshi , Tokunaga Eiji
Published: December 2017

To directly access the dynamics of electron distribution near the Fermi-surface after plasmon excitation, pump-probe spectroscopy was performed by pumping plasmons on noble-metal films and probing the interband transition. Spectral change in the interband transitions is sensitive to the electron distribution near the Fermi-surface, because it involves the d valence-band to the conduction band transitions and should reflect the k-space distribution dynamics of electrons. For the continuous-wave pump and probe experiment, the plasmon modulation spectra are found to differ from both the current modulation and temperature difference spectra, possibly reflecting signatures of the plasmon wave function. For the femtosecond-pulse pump and probe experiment, the transient spectra agree well with the known spectra upon the excitation of the respective electrons resulting from plasmon relaxation, probably because the lifetime of plasmons is shorter than the pulse duration.
An Integrated Behavioural Model towards Evaluating and Influencing Energy Behaviour—The Role of Motivation in Behaviour Demand Response
Authors: Blanke Julia , Beder Christian , Klepal Martin
Published: December 2017

The change in the actual use of buildings by its occupants is receiving more and more attention. Over the lifecycle of a building the occupants and therefore the demands towards the buildings often change a lot. To match these altering conditions, particularly in the context of the demand for energy efficiency, purely technical approaches usually cannot solve the problem on their own or are not financially viable. It is therefore essential to take the behaviour of the end user into account and ask the fundamental question: “How is it possible to influence people’s behaviour towards a more pro-environmental outcome, and also in the long-term?” To approach this question we will present a model-driven approach for dynamically involving building occupants into the energy optimisation process. To do so we will further develop an integrated behavioural model based on established behavioural theories, having a closer look how motivational variables can be integrated into the process. This should lead to novel approaches for behaviour demand response, enabling additional demand shifting and shedding through targeted real-time engagement with energy prosumers.
Chaos in a Cancer Model via Fractional Derivatives with Exponential Decay and Mittag-Leffler Law
Authors: Gómez-Aguilar José , López-López María , Alvarado-Martínez Victor , Baleanu Dumitru , Khan Hasib
Published: December 2017

In this paper, a three-dimensional cancer model was considered using the Caputo-Fabrizio-Caputo and the new fractional derivative with Mittag-Leffler kernel in Liouville-Caputo sense. Special solutions using an iterative scheme via Laplace transform, Sumudu-Picard integration method and Adams-Moulton rule were obtained. We studied the uniqueness and existence of the solutions. Novel chaotic attractors with total order less than three are obtained.
The Effects of Real Exchange Rates and Income on International Tourism Demand for the USA from Some European Union Countries
Authors: Ongan Serdar , Işik Cem , Özdemir Dilek
Published: December 2017

This paper investigates the effects of real exchange rates and income on inbound tourism demand (tourist arrivals) from Germany, France, the UK, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Sweden to the USA over the period 1996Q3–2015Q1. To achieve this aim, the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) for Restaurants and Hotels was used for the first time—instead of using the general Consumer Price Index (CPI)—to transform the nominal exchange rate into the real exchange rate as an independent variable in tourism demand analysis models. Panel co-integration analysis under the cross-sectional dependence (CD) test and common correlated effects (CCE) approach was applied. Empirical results show that tourists visiting the USA are more sensitive to changes in the real exchange rate than changes in GDP. While French tourists respond highly to the GDP, British tourists respond highly to the real exchange rate. It should also be noted that the UK, having the highest responsiveness to the real exchange rate, is a country outside the Eurozone and also intends to leave the European Union.
Design and Analysis of a New Torque Vectoring System with a Ravigneaux Gearset for Vehicle Applications
Authors: Chen Yu-Fan , Chen I-Ming , Chang Joshua , Liu Tyng
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this research is to develop a new torque vectoring differential (TVD) for vehicle applications and investigate its effect on vehicle dynamic control. TVD is a technology that is able to distribute the engine torque to the left and right driving wheels at different ratios so that the yaw motion control can be realized. Attention has been paid to this technology in recent years because of its potential to improve the vehicle performance and driving safety. In this study, a new TVD design with a Ravigneaux gearset was developed. This new design is able to use only one pair of gearsets to generate two different speed ratios, and the weight and volume of the system can be reduced. To execute the research, current TVD designs were analyzed and their design principles were clarified. Next, a new TVD design with Ravigneaux gearset was proposed. Then the connecting manner and the gear ratio of the Ravigneaux gearset were discussed. The dynamic equation of the system was then derived and the operation of the system was simulated in a MATLAB program. Further simulation was performed with a vehicle dynamic model in SimulationX to demonstrate the effect of the new system. The results of this study show the potential of building a new TVD with a Ravigneaux gearset and can be helpful for further system development.
Battery Storage Systems as Grid-Balancing Measure in Low-Voltage Distribution Grids with Distributed Generation
Authors: Faessler Bernhard , Schuler Michael , Preißinger Markus , Kepplinger Peter
Published: December 2017

Due to the promoted integration of renewable sources, a further growth of strongly transient, distributed generation is expected. Thus, the existing electrical grid may reach its physical limits. To counteract this, and to fully exploit the viable potential of renewables, grid-balancing measures are crucial. In this work, battery storage systems are embedded in a grid simulation to evaluate their potential for grid balancing. The overall setup is based on a real, low-voltage distribution grid topology, real smart meter household load profiles, and real photovoltaics load data. An autonomous optimization routine, driven by a one-way communicated incentive, determines the prospective battery operation mode. Different battery positions and incentives are compared to evaluate their impact. The configurations incorporate a baseline simulation without storage, a single, central battery storage or multiple, distributed battery storages which together have the same power and capacity. The incentives address either market conditions, grid balancing, optimal photovoltaic utilization, load shifting, or self-consumption. Simulations show that grid-balancing incentives result in lowest peak-to-average power ratios, while maintaining negligible voltage changes in comparison to a reference case. Incentives reflecting market conditions for electricity generation, such as real-time pricing, negatively influence the power quality, especially with respect to the peak-to-average power ratio. A central, feed-in-tied storage performs better in terms of minimizing the voltage drop/rise and shows lower distribution losses, while distributed storages attached at nodes with electricity generation by photovoltaics achieve lower peak-to-average power ratios.
Influence of the Periodicity of Sinusoidal Boundary Condition on the Unsteady Mixed Convection within a Square Enclosure Using an Ag–Water Nanofluid
Authors: Karim Azharul , Billah M. Masum , Newton M. T. Talukder , Rahman M. Mustafizur
Published: December 2017

A numerical study of the unsteady mixed convection heat transfer characteristics of an Ag–water nanofluid confined within a square shape lid-driven cavity has been carried out. The Galerkin weighted residual of the finite element method has been employed to investigate the effects of the periodicity of sinusoidal boundary condition for a wide range of Grashof numbers (Gr) (105 to 107) with the parametric variation of sinusoidal even and odd frequency, N, from 1 to 6 at different instants (for τ = 0.1 and 1). It has been observed that both the Grashof number and the sinusoidal even and odd frequency have a significant influence on the streamlines and isotherms inside the cavity. The heat transfer rate enhanced by 90% from the heated surface as the Grashof number (Gr) increased from 105 to 107 at sinusoidal frequency N = 1 and τ = 1.
Adjusting the Parameters of Metal Oxide Gapless Surge Arresters’ Equivalent Circuits Using the Harmony Search Method
Authors: Christodoulou Christos A. , Vita Vasiliki , Perantzakis Georgios , Ekonomou Lambros , Milushev George
Published: December 2017

The appropriate circuit modeling of metal oxide gapless surge arresters is critical for insulation coordination studies. Metal oxide arresters present a dynamic behavior for fast front surges; namely, their residual voltage is dependent on the peak value, as well as the duration of the injected impulse current, and should therefore not only be represented by non-linear elements. The aim of the current work is to adjust the parameters of the most frequently used surge arresters’ circuit models by considering the magnitude of the residual voltage, as well as the dissipated energy for given pulses. In this aim, the harmony search method is implemented to adjust parameter values of the arrester equivalent circuit models. This functions by minimizing a defined objective function that compares the simulation outcomes with the manufacturer’s data and the results obtained from previous methodologies.
Spatial Distribution of the Baltic Sea Near-Shore Wave Power Potential along the Coast of Klaipėda, Lithuania
Authors: Kasiulis Egidijus , Kofoed Jens , Povilaitis Arvydas , Radzevičius Algirdas
Published: December 2017

Wave power is an abundant source of energy that can be utilized to produce electricity. Therefore, assessments of wave power resources are being carried out worldwide. An overview of the recent assessments is presented in this paper, revealing the global distribution of these resources. Additionally, a study, which aims to assess the spatial distribution of the Baltic Sea near-shore wave power potential along the coast of Klaipėda (Lithuania), is introduced in this paper. The impacts of the wave propagation direction and decreasing depth on wave power resources were examined using the numerical wind-wave model MIKE 21 NSW. The wave height loss of the design waves propagating to shore was modelled, and the wave power fluxes in the studied depths were calculated using the JONSWAP wave spectrum modified for the Baltic Sea. The results revealed that all waves that propagate to the shore in the Baltic Sea near-shore area along the coast of Klaipėda from 30 m depth to 5 m depth lose at least 30% of their power. Still, most common waves in this area are low, and therefore, they start to lose their power while propagating to the shore at relatively low (10–14 m) depths. To turn this into an advantage the wave power converter would have to work efficiently under low power conditions.
Experimental and Finite Element Analysis to Investigate the Vibration of Oblique-Stud Stator Frame in a Large Hydropower Generator Unit
Authors: Zhou Jianzhong , Peng Xuanlin , Li Ruhai , Xu Yanhe , Liu Han , Chen Diyi
Published: December 2017

This paper presents an investigation on the undesirable vibration of an oblique-stud stator frame in a large hydropower generator by means of experimental and finite element (FE) analysis. First, field experimental tests were performed, and the results indicate that the main vibration component comes from electromagnetic factors. Then, a 2D-magnetic and 3D-mechanical FE model was developed to investigate the vibration of the stator frame under the action of electromagnetic forces. A set of contrast models was established to study the effects of different kinds of eccentricity and different structures. Based on the comparative analysis between the results of simulations and experimental tests, it can be inferred that the abnormal vibration is generated because of the lack of stiffness in the upper part of structure and the existence of dynamic eccentricity in the rotor–stator system. In addition, the structural simulation analysis shows that the flexible designed oblique-stud stator frame is relatively vulnerable against the electromagnetic forces.
Extension of Operating Range in Pump-Turbines. Influence of Head and Load
Authors: Valero Carme , Egusquiza Mònica , Egusquiza Eduard , Presas Alexandre , Valentin David , Bossio Matias
Published: December 2017

Due to the increasing share of new renewable energies like wind and solar in the generation of electricity the need for power regulation and energy storage is becoming of paramount importance. One of the systems to store huge amounts of energy is pumped storage using reversible hydropower units. The machines used in these power plants are pump-turbines, which can operate as a pump and as a turbine. The surplus of electrical energy during low consumption hours can be converted into potential hydraulic energy by pumping water to a higher level. The stored energy can be converted into electricity again by operating the runner as a turbine. Due to new regulation requirements machines have to extend the operating range in order to match energy generation with consumption for the grid stability. In this paper the consequences of extending the operating range in existing pump-turbines have been studied. For that purpose, the data obtained after two years of condition monitoring were analyzed. Vibrations and pressure fluctuations of two pump-turbines of 85 MW each have been studied during pump and turbine operation. For turbine operation the effects of extending the operating range from the standard range of 45–85 MW to and increased range of 20–85 MW were analyzed. The change in vibration levels and signatures at very low load are presented with the identification of the phenomena that occur under these conditions. The influence of head in the vibration behavior is also presented. The appearance of fluid instabilities generated at part load that may produce power swing is also presented. Finally, the effect of head on the vibration levels for pump operation is shown and analyzed.
A Probabilistically Constrained Approach for the Energy Procurement Problem
Authors: Beraldi Patrizia , Violi Antonio , Bruni Maria , Carrozzino Gianluca
Published: December 2017

The definition of the electric energy procurement plan represents a fundamental problem that any consumer has to deal with. Bilateral contracts, electricity market and self-production are the main supply sources that should be properly combined to satisfy the energy demand over a given time horizon at the minimum cost. The problem is made more complex by the presence of uncertainty, mainly related to the energy requirements and electricity market prices. Ignoring the uncertain nature of these elements can lead to the definition of procurement plans which are infeasible or overly expensive in a real setting. In this paper, we deal with the procurement problem under uncertainty by adopting the paradigm of joint chance constraints to define reliable plans that are feasible with a high probability level. Moreover, the proposed model includes in the objective function a risk measure to control undesirable effects caused by the random variations of the electricity market prices. The proposed model is applied to a real test case. The results show the benefit deriving from the stochastic optimization approach and the effect of considering different levels of risk aversion.
Temporal Variation of Ecological Factors Affecting Bird Species Richness in Urban and Peri-Urban Forests in a Changing Environment: A Case Study from Milan (Northern Italy)
Authors: Canedoli Claudia , Orioli Valerio , Padoa-Schioppa Emilio , Bani Luciano , Dondina Olivia
Published: December 2017

Urban and peri-urban forests determine different habitat services for biodiversity according to their characteristics. In this study, we relate ecological characteristics of urban and peri-urban forests to forest bird species richness and we assess whether their effect changed over time due to the urban sprawl within the urban region of Milan, Italy. We analyse two periods (1998–2002 and 2010–2014) using weighted generalized linear models that considered urban and peri-urban forests collectively and urban and peri-urban forests separately. Patch area, proximity to source areas and number of surrounding urban and peri-urban forests were the main factors predicting species richness within urban and peri-urban forests in both periods. While there were no differences in factors affecting bird richness in peri-urban forests between the two periods, the negative effect of urban matrix density was statistically significant for birds inhabiting urban forests in the second period. Moreover, protected areas within urban and peri-urban forests and urban forests in the second period were important determinants in providing suitable habitat for birds at the regional scale. This study offered important insights regarding urban and peri-urban forests characteristics that should be maintained to ensure biodiversity conservation across changing urban landscapes.
Proliferation Cycle Causes Age Dependent Mitochondrial Deficiencies and Contributes to the Aging of Stem Cells
Authors: Ren Qiuting , Zhang Fan , Xu Hong
Published: December 2017

In addition to chronological aging, stem cells are also subject to proliferative aging during the adult life span. However, the consequences of proliferative cycle and their contributions to stem cells aging have not been well investigated. Using Drosophila female germ line stem cells as a model, we found that the replication cycle leads to the age dependent decline of female fecundity, and is a major factor causing developmental abnormalities in the progeny of old females. The proliferative aging does not cause telomere shortening, but causes an accumulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations or rearrangements at the control region. We propose that damaging mutations on mtDNA caused by accumulation of proliferation cycles in aged stem cells may disrupt mitochondrial respiration chain and impair mtDNA replication and represent a conserved mechanism underlying stem cell aging.
Analysis of Slope Sensitivity to Landslides by a Transdisciplinary Approach in the Framework of Future Development: The Case of La Trinité in Martinique (French West Indies)
Authors: Thiery Yannick , Reninger Pierre-Alexandre , Lacquement Frederic , Raingeard Anne , Lombard Maeva , Nachbaur Aude
Published: December 2017

Landslide hazard and risk assessment (LHA & LRA) in the French West Indies is a big challenge, particularly in Martinique, where several factors contribute to high slope sensitivity to landslides. This sensitivity is particularly due to volcanic ground, hurricane seasons, and growing pressure from urban development. Thus, to protect future goods and inhabitants and avoid increased slope sensitivity to landslide, it is necessary to analyze by different ways and complementary approaches the future planned areas. This research focuses on a site the City Council of ‘La Trinité’ wishes to develop. The goals consist of locating landslide-prone areas and providing some recommendations/indications for future projects. The site is characterized by a hilly topography alternating steep slopes, gentle slopes, and eroded areas and is located on a complex lithology (i.e., andesite, basalt, and weathered materials). By combining several approaches and techniques (geology, geomorphology, geophysics, and modeling), it is demonstrated that some areas are particularly susceptible to landslide, notably where colluviums are juxtaposed to highly weathered materials. The different documents produced, based on modeling and expert knowledge, combined with indications should allow the definition of new susceptibility classes, taking into account probable anthropic influence and development. Even if the temporal probability of the experimental documents is not taken into account, they help with refining knowledge of landslide-prone areas and different types of instability. The documents should be discussed with end users for future planning.
In Transit: Sebald, Trauma, and Cinema
Authors: Meek Allen
Published: December 2017

Because Sebald’s books are preoccupied with historical catastrophe, particularly the Holocaust, critical commentaries have often interpreted them in terms of the transmission of traumatic memory. But this stress on the temporal relay from past to present and future generations has drawn attention away from the emphasis on space and travel in Sebald’s work. In order to address this gap in Sebald criticism, this essay discusses three films that adapt and respond to Sebald’s work: Patience (After Sebald) (directed by Grant Gee, 2012), Terezin (directed by Daniel Blaufuks, 2010) and Austerlitz (directed by Stan Neumann, 2015). Because of the cinema’s constant movement between images and places, these films allow us to see more clearly the aspects of Sebald’s writings concerned with traveling and making connections between different archival spaces. The journeys in Sebald’s books and in these films inspired by them go beyond human life worlds to include non-human creatures, and beyond the realms of the living to include those inhabited by the dead. This suspension of the boundary between life and death, along with the restless movement from place to place, creates a relationship to memory and history that cannot be limited to the model of traumatic transmission.
An Alternative Approach to Investigate Biofilm in Medical Devices: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Petrachi Tiziana , Resca Elisa , Piccinno Maria , Biagi Francesco , Strusi Valentina , Dominici Massimo , Veronesi Elena
Published: December 2017

Biofilms are assemblages of bacterial cells irreversibly associated with a surface where moisture is present. In particular, they retain a relevant impact on public health since through biofilms bacteria are able to survive and populate biomedical devices causing severe nosocomial infections that are generally resistant to antimicrobial agents. Therefore, controlling biofilm formation is a mandatory feature during medical device manufacturing and during their use. In this study, combining a crystal violet staining together with advanced stereomicroscopy, we report an alternative rapid protocol for both qualitative and semi-quantitative biofilm determination having high specificity, high repeatability, and low variability. The suggested approach represents a reliable and versatile method to detect, monitor, and measure biofilm colonization by an easy, more affordable, and reproducible method.
Time-Dependent Toxic and Genotoxic Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles after Long-Term and Repetitive Exposure to Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Ickrath Pascal , Wagner Martin , Scherzad Agmal , Gehrke Thomas , Burghartz Marc , Hagen Rudolf , Radeloff Katrin , Kleinsasser Norbert , Hackenberg Stephan
Published: December 2017

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NP) are widely spread in consumer products. Data about the toxicological characteristics of ZnO-NP is still under controversial discussion. The human skin is the most important organ concerning ZnO-NP exposure. Intact skin was demonstrated to be a sufficient barrier against NPs; however, defect skin may allow NP contact to proliferating cells. Within these cells, stem cells are the most important toxicological target for NPs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of ZnO-NP at low-dose concentrations after long-term and repetitive exposure to human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). Cytotoxic effects of ZnO-NP were measured by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Furthermore, genotoxicity was evaluated by the comet assay. For long-term observation over 6 weeks, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was applied. The results of the study indicated cytotoxic effects of ZnO-NP beginning at high concentrations of 50 μg/mL and genotoxic effects in hMSC exposed to 1 and 10 μg/mL ZnO-NP. Repetitive exposure enhanced cyto- but not genotoxicity. Intracellular NP accumulation was observed up to 6 weeks. The results suggest cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of ZnO-NP. Even low doses of ZnO-NP may induce toxic effects as a result of repetitive exposure and long-term cellular accumulation. This data should be considered before using ZnO-NP on damaged skin.
Aqueous Extract of Pomegranate Alone or in Combination with Citalopram Produces Antidepressant-Like Effects in an Animal Model of Menopause: Participation of Estrogen Receptors
Authors: Valdés-Sustaita Brenda , López-Rubalcava Carolina , González-Trujano María , García-Viguera Cristina , Estrada-Camarena Erika
Published: December 2017

It has been reported that the aqueous extract of pomegranate (AE-PG) has polyphenols with estrogenic-like activities. The present work determines if AE-PG alone or in combination with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, citalopram, has antidepressant-like effects. It was also analyzed the participation of estrogen receptors (ER). AE-PG (0.1, 1.0, 10, or 100 mg/kg) was evaluated in ovariectomized female Wistar rats subjected to the forced swimming test. The effects induced by AE-PG were compared with those of citalopram (2.5, 5.0, 10, and 20.0 mg/kg) and 17β-estradiol (E2; 2.5 5.0, and 10 μg/rat). Likewise, the combination of suboptimal doses of AE-PG (0.1 mg/kg) plus citalopram (2.5 mg/kg) was evaluated. To determine if ER participates in the antidepressant-like action of pomegranate, the estrogen antagonist tamoxifen (15 mg/kg) was administered with AE-PG (1 mg/kg). AE-PG produced antidepressant-like actions with a similar behavioral profile induced by citalopram and E2. Suboptimal doses of citalopram plus AE-PG produced antidepressant-like effects. Tamoxifen was able to block AE-PG’s antidepressant-like actions. These results confirm the participation of ER in AE-PG’s antidepressant-like effects. Furthermore, the additive effects observed with the combined treatment of AE-PG plus citalopram could be advantageous in the treatment of depressive disorders, such as menopause.
Usefulness of Amino Acid Profiling in Ovarian Cancer Screening with Special Emphasis on Their Role in Cancerogenesis
Authors: Plewa Szymon , Horała Agnieszka , Dereziński Paweł , Klupczynska Agnieszka , Nowak-Markwitz Ewa , Matysiak Jan , Kokot Zenon
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to quantitate 42 serum-free amino acids, propose the biochemical explanation of their role in tumor development, and identify new ovarian cancer (OC) biomarkers for potential use in OC screening. The additional value of this work is the schematic presentation of the interrelationship between metabolites which were identified as significant for OC development and progression. The liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry technique using highly-selective multiple reaction monitoring mode and labeled internal standards for each analyzed compound was applied. Performed statistical analyses showed that amino acids are potentially useful as OC biomarkers, especially as variables in multi-marker models. For the distinguishing metabolites the following metabolic pathways involved in cancer growth and development were proposed: histidine metabolism; tryptophan metabolism; arginine biosynthesis; arginine and proline metabolism; and alanine, aspartate and glutamine metabolism. The presented research identifies histidine and citrulline as potential new OC biomarkers. Furthermore, it provides evidence that amino acids are involved in metabolic pathways related to tumor growth and play an important role in cancerogenesis.
What Has Been Seen Cannot Be Unseen—Detecting Auxin In Vivo
Authors: Pařízková Barbora , Pernisová Markéta , Novák Ondřej
Published: December 2017

Auxins mediate various processes that are involved in plant growth and development in response to specific environmental conditions. Its proper spatio-temporal distribution that is driven by polar auxin transport machinery plays a crucial role in the wide range of auxins physiological effects. Numbers of approaches have been developed to either directly or indirectly monitor auxin distribution in vivo in order to elucidate the basis of its precise regulation. Herein, we provide an updated list of valuable techniques used for monitoring auxins in plants, with their utilities and limitations. Because the spatial and temporal resolutions of the presented approaches are different, their combination may provide a comprehensive outcome of auxin distribution in diverse developmental processes.
Coinfection with Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Polyoma BK Virus (BKPyV) in Laryngeal, Oropharyngeal and Oral Cavity Cancer
Authors: Drop Bartłomiej , Strycharz-Dudziak Małgorzata , Kliszczewska Ewa , Polz-Dacewicz Małgorzata
Published: December 2017

Most research providing evidence for the role of oncogenic viruses in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) development is focused on one type of virus without analyzing possible interactions between two or more types of viruses. The aim of this study was to analyse the prevalence of co-infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and polyoma BK virus (BKPyV) in oral, oropharyngeal and laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas in Polish patients. The correlations between viral infection, SCC, demographic parameters, evidence of metastases and grading were also investigated. Fresh-frozen tumour tissue samples were collected from 146 patients with laryngeal, oropharyngeal and oral cancer. After DNA extraction, the DNA of the studied viruses was detected using polymerase chain rection (PCR) assay. Males (87.7%) with a history of smoking (70.6%) and alcohol abuse (59.6%) prevailed in the studied group. Histological type G2 was recognized in 64.4% cases. The patients were most frequently diagnosed with T2 stage (36.3%) and with N1 stage (45.8%). Infection with at least two viruses was detected in 56.2% of patients. In this group, co-infection with HPV/EBV was identified in 34.1% of cases, EBV/BKV in 23.2%, HPV/BKV in 22.0%, and HPV/EBV/BKV in 20.7%. No difference of multiple infection in different locations of cancer was observed. The prevalence of poorly differentiated tumours (G3) was more frequent in co-infection with all three viruses than EBV or BKV alone. A significant correlation was observed between tumour dimensions (T) and lymph-node involvement (N) in co-infected patients compared to single infection. Further studies are necessary to clarify whether co-infection plays an important role in the initiation and/or progression of oncogenic transformation of oral, oropharyngeal and laryngeal epithelial cells.
Sulfuretin Attenuates MPP+-Induced Neurotoxicity through Akt/GSK3β and ERK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Pariyar Ramesh , Lamichhane Ramakanta , Jung Hyun , Kim Sung , Seo Jungwon
Published: December 2017

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. It is caused by the death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to the loss of dopaminergic neurons in PD. Sulfuretin is a potent antioxidant that is reported to be beneficial in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we examined the protective effect of sulfuretin against 1-methyl-4-phenyl pyridinium (MPP+)-induced cell model of PD in SH-SY5Y cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Sulfuretin significantly decreased MPP+-induced apoptotic cell death, accompanied by a reduction in caspase 3 activity and polyADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage. Furthermore, it attenuated MPP+-induced production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Consistently, sulfuretin decreased p53 expression and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Moreover, sulfuretin significantly increased the phosphorylation of Akt, GSK3β, and ERK. Pharmacological inhibitors of PI3K/Akt and ERK abolished the cytoprotective effects of sulfuretin against MPP+. An inhibitor of GSK3β mimicked sulfuretin-induced protection against MPP+. Taken together, these results suggest that sulfuretin significantly attenuates MPP+-induced neurotoxicity through Akt/GSK3β and ERK signaling pathways in SH-SY5Y cells. Our findings suggest that sulfuretin might be one of the potential candidates for the treatment of PD.