bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Sensors Based Hand Motion Recognition Using Adaptive Directed Acyclic Graph
Authors: Xue Yaxu , Ju Zhaojie , Xiang Kui , Chen Jing , Liu Honghai
Published: April 2017

The use of human hand motions as an effective way to interact with computers/robots, robot manipulation learning and prosthetic hand control is being researched in-depth. This paper proposes a novel and effective multiple sensor based hand motion capture and recognition system. Ten common predefined object grasp and manipulation tasks demonstrated by different subjects are recorded from both the human hand and object points of view. Three types of sensors, including electromyography, data glove and FingerTPS are applied to simultaneously capture the EMG signals, the finger angle trajectories, and the contact force. Recognising different grasp and manipulation tasks based on the combined signals is investigated by using an adaptive directed acyclic graph algorithm, and results of comparative experiments show the proposed system with a higher recognition rate compared with individual sensing technology, as well as other algorithms. The proposed framework contains abundant information from multimodal human hand motions with the multiple sensor techniques, and it is potentially applicable to applications in prosthetic hand control and artificial systems performing autonomous dexterous manipulation.
Performance Analysis of a Fluidic Axial Oscillation Tool for Friction Reduction with the Absence of a Throttling Plate
Authors: Zhang Xinxin , Peng Jianming , Liu He , Wu Dongyu
Published: April 2017

An axial oscillation tool is proved to be effective in solving problems associated with high friction and torque in the sliding drilling of a complex well. The fluidic axial oscillation tool, based on an output-fed bistable fluidic oscillator, is a type of axial oscillation tool which has become increasingly popular in recent years. The aim of this paper is to analyze the dynamic flow behavior of a fluidic axial oscillation tool with the absence of a throttling plate in order to evaluate its overall performance. In particular, the differences between the original design with a throttling plate and the current default design are profoundly analyzed, and an improvement is expected to be recorded for the latter. A commercial computational fluid dynamics code, Fluent, was used to predict the pressure drop and oscillation frequency of a fluidic axial oscillation tool. The results of the numerical simulations agree well with corresponding experimental results. A sufficient pressure pulse amplitude with a low pressure drop is desired in this study. Therefore, a relative pulse amplitude of pressure drop and displacement are introduced in our study. A comparison analysis between the two designs with and without a throttling plate indicates that when the supply flow rate is relatively low or higher than a certain value, the fluidic axial oscillation tool with a throttling plate exhibits a better performance; otherwise, the fluidic axial oscillation tool without a throttling plate seems to be a preferred alternative. In most of the operating circumstances in terms of the supply flow rate and pressure drop, the fluidic axial oscillation tool performs better than the original design.
A Simplified Method to Estimate Sc-CO2 Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Different Matrices: Chili Pepper vs. Tomato By-Products
Authors: Venturi Francesca , Sanmartin Chiara , Taglieri Isabella , Andrich Gianpaolo , Zinnai Angela
Published: April 2017

In the last few decades, the search for bioactive compounds or “target molecules” from natural sources or their by-products has become the most important application of the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) process. In this context, the present research had two main objectives: (i) to verify the effectiveness of a two-step SFE process (namely, a preliminary Sc-CO2 extraction of carotenoids followed by the recovery of polyphenols by ethanol coupled with Sc-CO2) in order to obtain bioactive extracts from two widespread different matrices (chili pepper and tomato by-products), and (ii) to test the validity of the mathematical model proposed to describe the kinetics of SFE of carotenoids from different matrices, the knowledge of which is required also for the definition of the role played in the extraction process by the characteristics of the sample matrix. On the basis of the results obtained, it was possible to introduce a simplified kinetic model that was able to describe the time evolution of the extraction of bioactive compounds (mainly carotenoids and phenols) from different substrates. In particular, while both chili pepper and tomato were confirmed to be good sources of bioactive antioxidant compounds, the extraction process from chili pepper was faster than from tomato under identical operating conditions.
Final Conversations: Overview and Practical Implications for Patients, Families, and Healthcare Workers
Authors: Keeley Maureen , Generous Mark
Published: April 2017

The current paper presents a summary of a 12-year body of research on final conversations, which will be useful for healthcare providers who work with patients and family nearing the end-of-life, as well as for patients and their family members. Final conversations encompass any and all conversations that occur between individuals with a terminal diagnosis and their family members (all participants are aware that their loved one is in the midst of the death journey). Final conversations take the family member’s perspective and highlights what are their memorable messages with the terminally ill loved one. In this paper the authors highlight the message themes present at the end-of-life for both adults and children, the functions each message theme serves for family members, and lastly, the communicative challenges of final conversations. Additionally, the authors discuss the current nature and future of final conversations research, with special attention paid to practical implications for healthcare providers, patients, and family members; also, scholarly challenges and future research endeavors are explored.
The Dynamics of Deforestation in the Wet and Dry Tropics: A Comparison with Policy Implications
Authors: Rudel Thomas K.
Published: April 2017

Forests in the dry tropics differ significantly from forests in the humid tropics in their biomass and in their socio-ecological contexts, so it might be reasonable to assume that the dynamics that drive deforestation in these two settings would also differ. Until recently, difficulties in measuring the extent of dry tropical forests have made it difficult to investigate this claim empirically. The release of high resolution LANDSAT satellite imagery in 2013 has removed this impediment, making it possible to identify variations in the extent of wet and dry forests within countries by measuring variations in the canopy cover of their forests. These metrics have in turn made it possible to investigate human differences in the dynamics of deforestation between dry forested and wet forested nations in the tropics. Cross-national analyses suggest that international trade in agricultural commodities plays a more important role in driving deforestation in the wet tropics than it does in the dry tropics. The variable salience of international trade as a driver has important implications, described here, for the success of policies designed to slow deforestation in the dry tropics and the wet tropics. Curbing dry forest losses, in particular, would appear to require locally focused and administered policies.
Importance of Rocks and Their Weathering Products on Groundwater Quality in Central-East Cameroon
Authors: Dedzo Merlin Gountié , Tsozué Désiré , Mimba Mumbfu Ernestine , Teddy Fulbert , Nembungwe Romio Mofor , Linida Sylvie
Published: April 2017

The present work highlights the influence of lithology on water quality in Méiganga and its surroundings. The main geological formations in this region include gneiss, granite and amphibolite. The soils developed on these rocks are of ABC type, which are acidic to slightly acidic. Electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter, total nitrogen, nitrate-nitrogen, sulfate, chloride, phosphorus and exchangeable base values were low to very low in the soil samples. Groundwater samples were investigated for their physicochemical characteristics. The wide ranges of EC values (15.1–436 µS/cm) and total dissolved solids (9–249 mg/L) revealed the heterogeneous distribution of hydrochemical processes within the groundwater of the area. The relative abundance of major dissolved species (mg/L) was Ca2+ > Na+ > Mg2+ > K+ for cations and HCO3− >> NO3− > Cl− > SO42− for anions. All the groundwater samples were soft, with total hardness values (2.54–136.65 mg/L) below the maximum permissible limits of the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline. The majority of water samples (67%) were classified as mixed CaMg-HCO3 type. Alkaline earth metal contents dominated those of alkali metals in 66.66% of samples. Thus, for the studied groundwater, Mg2+ and Ca2+ ion adsorption by clay minerals was almost nonexistent; this implies their release into the solution, which accounts for their high concentrations compared to alkali metals. Ion geochemistry revealed that water-rock interactions (silicate weathering) and ion exchange processes regulated the groundwater chemistry. One water sample points towards the evaporation domain of this diagram, indicating that groundwater probably does not originate from a deeper system. Kaolinite is the most stable secondary phase in the waters in the study area, in accordance with the geochemical process of monosiallitization, which predominated in the humid tropical zone.
How Does Ambient Air Temperature Affect Diabetes Mortality in Tropical Cities?
Authors: Seposo Xerxes , Dang Tran , Honda Yasushi
Published: April 2017

Diabetes is well-known as one of the many chronic diseases that affect different age groups. Currently, most studies that evaluated the effects of temperature on diabetes mortality focused on temperate and subtropical settings, but no study has been conducted to assess the relationship in a tropical setting. We conducted the first multi-city study carried out in tropical cities, which evaluated the temperature–diabetes relationship. We collected daily diabetes mortality (ICD E10–E14) of four Philippine cities from 2006 to 2011. Same period meteorological data were obtained from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. We used a generalized additive model coupled with a distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) in determining the relative risks. Results showed that both low and high temperatures pose greater risks among diabetics. Likewise, the study was able to observe the: (1) high risk brought about by low temperature, aside from the largely observed high risks by high temperature; and (2) protective effects in low temperature percentile. These results provide significant policy implications with strategies related to diabetes risk groups in relation to health service and care strategies.
Adaptive and Optimized RDF Query Interface for Distributed WFS Data
Authors: Zhao Tian , Zhang Chuanrong , Li Weidong
Published: April 2017

Web Feature Service (WFS) is a protocol for accessing geospatial data stores such as databases and Shapefiles over the Web. However, WFS does not provide direct access to data distributed in multiple servers. In addition, WFS features extracted from their original sources are not convenient for user access due to the lack of connection to high-level concepts. Users are facing the choices of either querying each WFS server first and then integrating the results, or converting the data from all WFS servers to a more expressive format such as RDF (Resource Description Framework) and then querying the integrated data. The first choice requires additional programming while the second choice is not practical for large or frequently updated datasets. The new contribution of this paper is that we propose a novel adaptive and optimized RDF query interface to overcome the aforementioned limitation. Specifically, in this paper, we propose a novel algorithm to query and synthesize distributed WFS data through an RDF query interface, where users can specify data requests to multiple WFS servers using a single RDF query. Users can also define a simple configuration to associate WFS feature types, attributes, and values with RDF classes, properties, and values so that user queries can be written using a more uniform and informative vocabulary. The algorithm translates each RDF query written in SPARQL-like syntax to multiple WFS GetFeature requests, and then converts and integrates the multiple WFS results to get the answers to the original query. The generated GetFeature requests are sent asynchronously and simultaneously to WFS servers to take advantage of the server parallelism. The results of each GetFeature request are cached to improve query response time for subsequent queries that involve one or more of the cached requests. A JavaScript-based prototype is implemented and experimental results show that the query response time can be greatly reduced through fine-grained caching.
Camera Coverage Estimation Based on Multistage Grid Subdivision
Authors: Wang Meizhen , Liu Xuejun , Zhang Yanan , Wang Ziran
Published: April 2017

Visual coverage is one of the most important quality indexes for depicting the usability of an individual camera or camera network. It is the basis for camera network deployment, placement, coverage-enhancement, planning, etc. Precision and efficiency are critical influences on applications, especially those involving several cameras. This paper proposes a new method to efficiently estimate superior camera coverage. First, the geographic area that is covered by the camera and its minimum bounding rectangle (MBR) without considering obstacles is computed using the camera parameters. Second, the MBR is divided into grids using the initial grid size. The status of the four corners of each grid is estimated by a line of sight (LOS) algorithm. If the camera, considering obstacles, covers a corner, the status is represented by 1, otherwise by 0. Consequently, the status of a grid can be represented by a code that is a combination of 0s or 1s. If the code is not homogeneous (not four 0s or four 1s), the grid will be divided into four sub-grids until the sub-grids are divided into a specific maximum level or their codes are homogeneous. Finally, after performing the process above, total camera coverage is estimated according to the size and status of all grids. Experimental results illustrate that the proposed method’s accuracy is determined by the method that divided the coverage area into the smallest grids at the maximum level, while its efficacy is closer to the method that divided the coverage area into the initial grids. It considers both efficiency and accuracy. The initial grid size and maximum level are two critical influences on the proposed method, which can be determined by weighing efficiency and accuracy.
Delphinidin Reduces Glucose Uptake in Mice Jejunal Tissue and Human Intestinal Cells Lines through FFA1/GPR40
Authors: Hidalgo Jorge , Teuber Stefanie , Morera Francisco , Ojeda Camila , Flores Carlos , Hidalgo María , Núñez Lucía , Villalobos Carlos , Burgos Rafael
Published: April 2017

Anthocyanins are pigments with antihyperglycemic properties, and they are potential candidates for developing functional foods for the therapy or prevention of Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2). The mechanism of these beneficial effects of anthocyanins are, however, hard to explain, given their very low bioavailability due to poor intestinal absorption. We propose that free fatty acid receptor 1 (FFA1, also named GPR40), is involved in an inhibitory effect of the anthocyanidin delphinidin over intestinal glucose absorption. We show the direct effects of delphinidin on the intestine using jejunum samples from RF/J mice, and the human intestinal cell lines HT-29, Caco-2, and NCM460. By the use of specific pharmacological antagonists, we determined that delphinidin inhibits glucose absorption in both mouse jejunum and a human enterocytic cell line in a FFA1-dependent manner. Delphinidin also affects the function of sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1). Intracellular signaling after FFA1 activation involved cAMP increase and cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations originated from intracellular Ca2+ stores and were followed by store-operated Ca2+ entry. Taken together, our results suggest a new GPR-40 mediated local mechanism of action for delphinidin over intestinal cells that may in part explain its antidiabetic effect. These findings are promising for the search for new prevention and pharmacological treatment strategies for DM2 management.
Preparation and Properties of Microarc Oxidation Self-Lubricating Composite Coatings on Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Li Zhenwei , Di Shichun
Published: April 2017

Microarc oxidation (MAO) coatings were prepared on 2024-T4 aluminum alloy using pulsed bipolar power supply at different cathode current densities. The MAO ceramic coatings contained many crater-like micropores and a small number of microcracks. After the MAO coatings were formed, the coated samples were immersed into a water-based Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) dispersion. The micropores and microcracks on the surface of the MAO coatings were filled with PTFE dispersion for preparing MAO self-lubricating composite coatings. The microstructure and properties of MAO coatings and the wear resistance of microarc oxidation self-lubricating composite coatings were analyzed by SEM, laser confocal microscope, X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Vickers hardness test, scratch test and ball-on-disc abrasive tests, respectively. The results revealed that the wear rates of the MAO coatings decreased significantly with an increase in cathode current density. Compared to the MAO coatings, the microarc oxidation self-lubricating composite coatings exhibited a lower friction coefficient and lower wear rates.
Feasibility of Recycling Ultrafine Leaching Residue by Backfill: Experimental and CFD Approaches
Authors: Chen Xin , Shi Xiuzhi , Zhou Jian , Chen Qiusong , Yang Chao
Published: April 2017

Large amounts of leaching residue are released into tailings dams from mines, and their acid content can cause environmental pollution. The aim of this study was to research the feasibility and value of a leaching residue backfill recycling method. The combination of property detection, laboratory tests (the neutralization method, strength test and diffusivity test) and numerical simulation methods (3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of pipeline transportation properties) were used to assess the performance of the leaching residue backfill. The results show that backfill body with the cement:sand mass ratio of 1:3, the leaching residue:classified tailings ratio of 1:6, and slurry mass concentration of 71 wt % can meet the strength and pipeline self-flowing transportation requirements of mine backfill. The leaching residue is a good backfill aggregate, and its recovery ratio can reach 19.5 wt %. In addition, the recycling of leaching residue effectively alleviates the problem of mine waste emissions and protects the ecological environment surrounding the mining area. This study serves as a guide for the recycling of fine tailings and the environmental governance of the mining area.
Antisense Oligonucleotide-Based Therapy for Neuromuscular Disease
Authors: Sardone Valentina , Zhou Haiyan , Muntoni Francesco , Ferlini Alessandra , Falzarano Maria
Published: April 2017

Neuromuscular disorders such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Spinal Muscular Atrophy are neurodegenerative genetic diseases characterized primarily by muscle weakness and wasting. Until recently there were no effective therapies for these conditions, but antisense oligonucleotides, a new class of synthetic single stranded molecules of nucleic acids, have demonstrated promising experimental results and are at different stages of regulatory approval. The antisense oligonucleotides can modulate the protein expression via targeting hnRNAs or mRNAs and inducing interference with splicing, mRNA degradation, or arrest of translation, finally, resulting in rescue or reduction of the target protein expression. Different classes of antisense oligonucleotides are being tested in several clinical trials, and limitations of their clinical efficacy and toxicity have been reported for some of these compounds, while more encouraging results have supported the development of others. New generation antisense oligonucleotides are also being tested in preclinical models together with specific delivery systems that could allow some of the limitations of current antisense oligonucleotides to be overcome, to improve the cell penetration, to achieve more robust target engagement, and hopefully also be associated with acceptable toxicity. This review article describes the chemical properties and molecular mechanisms of action of the antisense oligonucleotides and the therapeutic implications these compounds have in neuromuscular diseases. Current strategies and carrier systems available for the oligonucleotides delivery will be also described to provide an overview on the past, present and future of these appealing molecules.
Strengthening Triterpene Saponins Biosynthesis by Over-Expression of Farnesyl Pyrophosphate Synthase Gene and RNA Interference of Cycloartenol Synthase Gene in Panax notoginseng Cells
Authors: Yang Yan , Ge Feng , Sun Ying , Liu Diqiu , Chen Chaoyin
Published: April 2017

To conform to the multiple regulations of triterpene biosynthesis, the gene encoding farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (FPS) was transformed into Panax notoginseng (P. notoginseng) cells in which RNA interference (RNAi) of the cycloartenol synthase (CAS) gene had been accomplished. Transgenic cell lines showed both higher expression levels of FPS and lower expression levels of CAS compared to the wild-type (WT) cells. In the triterpene and phytosterol analysis, transgenic cell lines provided a higher accumulation of total triterpene saponins, and a lower amount of phytosterols in comparison with the WT cells. Compared with the cells in which RNAi of the CAS gene was achieved, the cells with simultaneously over-expressed FPS and silenced CAS showed higher triterpene contents. These results demonstrate that over-expression of FPS can break the rate-limiting reaction catalyzed by FPS in the triterpene saponins biosynthetic pathway; and inhibition of CAS expression can decrease the synthesis metabolic flux of the phytosterol branch. Thus, more precursors flow in the direction of triterpene synthesis, and ultimately promote the accumulation of P. notoginseng saponins. Meanwhile, silencing and over-expressing key enzyme genes simultaneously is more effective than just manipulating one gene in the regulation of saponin biosynthesis.
Possible Involvement of Hydrosulfide in B12-Dependent Methyl Group Transfer
Authors: Toohey John I.
Published: April 2017

Evidence from several fields of investigation lead to the hypothesis that the sulfur atom is involved in vitamin B12-dependent methyl group transfer. To compile the evidence, it is necessary to briefly review the following fields: methylation, the new field of sulfane sulfur/hydrogen sulfide (S°/H2S), hydrosulfide derivatives of cobalamins, autoxidation of hydrosulfide radical, radical S-adenosylmethionine methyl transfer (RSMT), and methionine synthase (MS). Then, new reaction mechanisms for B12-dependent methyl group transfer are proposed; the mechanisms are facile and overcome difficulties that existed in previously-accepted mechanisms. Finally, the theory is applied to the effect of S°/H2S in nerve tissue involving the “hypomethylation theory” that was proposed 50 years ago to explain the neuropathology resulting from deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid. The conclusions are consistent with emerging evidence that sulfane sulfur/hydrogen sulfide may be beneficial in treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Eliminating Iodine Deficiency in China: Achievements, Challenges and Global Implications
Authors: Sun Dianjun , Codling Karen , Chang Suying , Zhang Shubin , Shen Hongmei , Su Xiaohui , Chen Zupei , Scherpbier Robert W. , Yan Jun
Published: April 2017

The prevention of iodine deficiency through salt iodization has been recognized as a global success story, and China stands at the forefront of this achievement with one of the most successful programs in the world. High level political commitment, national mandatory legislation, a state-managed edible salt industry and a complex and highly sophisticated surveillance system have facilitated the success of the program. Challenges have arisen however, including: (i) concern that adequate iodine status in pregnant women cannot be achieved without causing above adequate iodine intakes in children; (ii) declining iodine intake as a result of reductions in salt consumption and increased consumption of processed foods, which may not be made with iodized salt; (iii) the existence of areas with high iodine content in the water; and (iv) declines in household use of iodized salt due to concerns about excess iodine intake and thyroid disease. This article reviews the achievements and challenges of the Chinese Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD) Elimination Program and reflects on lessons learned and implications for other national salt iodization programs.
Very Low Volume Sprint Interval Exercise Suppresses Subjective Appetite, Lowers Acylated Ghrelin, and Elevates GLP-1 in Overweight Individuals: A Pilot Study
Authors: Holliday Adrian , Blannin Andrew
Published: April 2017

High-intensity exercise has been shown to elicit a transient suppression of appetite and create a more anorexigenic profile of appetite-associated hormones. It is yet to be fully elucidated whether such a response is observed following very low-volume, intermittent exercise at supramaximal intensity in those who are overweight. Eight overweight individuals (BMI 27.7 ± 1.7 kg·m2) completed resting (REST) and exercise (EX) trials in a counterbalanced order. EX consisted of 4 × 30 s “flat-out” cycling on an ergometer (adapted Wingate test). Two hours post-exercise (or REST), participants were presented with an ad libitum meal. Subjective appetite measures and blood samples were obtained throughout. Subjective appetite, measured using VAS, was significantly lower immediately after exercise compared with REST (38.0 ± 28.5 mm vs. 75.1 ± 26.2 mm, p = 0.018, d = 1.09). This difference remained significant 30 min post-exercise. Acylated ghrelin concentration was suppressed in EX compared with REST immediately post-exercise (113.4 ± 43.0 pg·mL−1 vs. 189.2 ± 91.8 pg·mL−1, p = 0.03, d = 1.07) and remained lower until the ad libitum test-meal. Area-under-the-curve for GLP-1 concentration was significantly greater for EX, versus REST. There was no difference in absolute ad libitum intake or relative energy intake. As little as 4 × 30 s of “flat-out” cycling was sufficient to elicit a transient suppression of appetite and an enduring suppression of plasma acylated ghrelin. Nonetheless, food intake 2-h post-exercise was unaffected.
A Novel Medical E-Nose Signal Analysis System
Authors: Kou Lu , Zhang David , Liu Dongxu
Published: April 2017

It has been proven that certain biomarkers in people’s breath have a relationship with diseases and blood glucose levels (BGLs). As a result, it is possible to detect diseases and predict BGLs by analysis of breath samples captured by e-noses. In this paper, a novel optimized medical e-nose system specified for disease diagnosis and BGL prediction is proposed. A large-scale breath dataset has been collected using the proposed system. Experiments have been organized on the collected dataset and the experimental results have shown that the proposed system can well solve the problems of existing systems. The methods have effectively improved the classification accuracy.
A Review of Rock Bolt Monitoring Using Smart Sensors
Authors: Song Gangbing , Li Weijie , Wang Bo , Ho Siu
Published: April 2017

Rock bolts have been widely used as rock reinforcing members in underground coal mine roadways and tunnels. Failures of rock bolts occur as a result of overloading, corrosion, seismic burst and bad grouting, leading to catastrophic economic and personnel losses. Monitoring the health condition of the rock bolts plays an important role in ensuring the safe operation of underground mines. This work presents a brief introduction on the types of rock bolts followed by a comprehensive review of rock bolt monitoring using smart sensors. Smart sensors that are used to assess rock bolt integrity are reviewed to provide a firm perception of the application of smart sensors for enhanced performance and reliability of rock bolts. The most widely used smart sensors for rock bolt monitoring are the piezoelectric sensors and the fiber optic sensors. The methodologies and principles of these smart sensors are reviewed from the point of view of rock bolt integrity monitoring. The applications of smart sensors in monitoring the critical status of rock bolts, such as the axial force, corrosion occurrence, grout quality and resin delamination, are highlighted. In addition, several prototypes or commercially available smart rock bolt devices are also introduced.
Digital Threat and Vulnerability Management: The SVIDT Method
Authors: Scholz Roland W.
Published: April 2017

The Digital Revolution is inducing major threats to many types of human systems. We present the SVIDT method (a Strengths, Vulnerability, and Intervention Assessment related to Digital Threats) for managing the vulnerabilities of human systems with respect to digital threats and changes. The method first performs a multilevel system–actor analysis for assessing vulnerabilities and strengths with respect to digital threats. Then, the method identifies threat scenarios that may become real. By constructing, evaluating, and launching interventions against all identified digital threats and their critical negative outcomes, the resilience of a specific human system can be improved. The evaluation of interventions is done when strengthening the adaptive capacity, i.e., a system’s capability to cope with negative outcomes that may take place in the future. The SVIDT method is embedded in the framework of coupled human–environment systems, the theory of risk and vulnerability assessment, types of adaptation (assimilation vs. accommodation), and a comprehensive sustainability evaluation. The SVIDT method is exemplarily applied to an enterprise (i.e., a Swiss casino) for which online gaming has become an essential digital-business field. The discussion reflects on the specifics of digital threats and discusses both the potential benefits and limitations of the SVIDT method.
Establishment of the Inducible Tet-On System for the Activation of the Silent Trichosetin Gene Cluster in Fusarium fujikuroi
Authors: Janevska Slavica , Arndt Birgit , Baumann Leonie , Apken Lisa , Mauriz Marques Lucas , Humpf Hans-Ulrich , Tudzynski Bettina
Published: April 2017

The PKS-NRPS-derived tetramic acid equisetin and its N-desmethyl derivative trichosetin exhibit remarkable biological activities against a variety of organisms, including plants and bacteria, e.g., Staphylococcus aureus. The equisetin biosynthetic gene cluster was first described in Fusarium heterosporum, a species distantly related to the notorious rice pathogen Fusarium fujikuroi. Here we present the activation and characterization of a homologous, but silent, gene cluster in F. fujikuroi. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that this cluster does not contain the equisetin N-methyltransferase gene eqxD and consequently, trichosetin was isolated as final product. The adaption of the inducible, tetracycline-dependent Tet-on promoter system from Aspergillus niger achieved a controlled overproduction of this toxic metabolite and a functional characterization of each cluster gene in F. fujikuroi. Overexpression of one of the two cluster-specific transcription factor (TF) genes, TF22, led to an activation of the three biosynthetic cluster genes, including the PKS-NRPS key gene. In contrast, overexpression of TF23, encoding a second Zn(II)2Cys6 TF, did not activate adjacent cluster genes. Instead, TF23 was induced by the final product trichosetin and was required for expression of the transporter-encoding gene MFS-T. TF23 and MFS-T likely act in consort and contribute to detoxification of trichosetin and therefore, self-protection of the producing fungus.
Baseline Susceptibility of Field Populations of Helicoverpa armigera to Bacillus thuringiensis Vip3Aa Toxin and Lack of Cross-Resistance between Vip3Aa and Cry Toxins
Authors: Wei Yiyun , Wu Shuwen , Yang Yihua , Wu Yidong
Published: April 2017

The cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) is one of the most damaging cotton pests worldwide. In China, control of this pest has been dependent on transgenic cotton producing a single Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) protein Cry1Ac since 1997. A small, but significant, increase in H. armigera resistance to Cry1Ac was detected in field populations from Northern China. Since Vip3Aa has a different structure and mode of action than Cry proteins, Bt cotton pyramids containing Vip3Aa are considered as ideal successors of Cry1Ac cotton in China. In this study, baseline susceptibility of H. armigera to Vip3Aa was evaluated in geographic field populations collected in 2014 from major cotton-producing areas of China. The LC50 values of 12 field populations ranged from 0.053 to 1.311 μg/cm2, representing a 25-fold range of natural variation among populations. It is also demonstrated that four laboratory strains of H. armigera with high levels of resistance to Cry1Ac or Cry2Ab have no cross-resistance to Vip3Aa protein. The baseline susceptibility data established here will serve as a comparative reference for detection of field-evolved resistance to Vip3Aa in H. armigera after future deployment of Bt cotton pyramids in China.
Seasonal Variation in Sediment Oxygen Demand in a Northern Chained River-Lake System
Authors: Akomeah Eric , Lindenschmidt Karl-Erich
Published: April 2017

Sediment oxygen demand (SOD) contributes immensely to hypolimnetic oxygen depletion. SOD rates thus play a key role in aquatic ecosystems’ health predictions. These rates, however, can be very expensive to sample. Moreover, determination of SOD rates by sediment diagenesis modeling may require very large datasets, or may not be easily adapted to complex aquatic systems. Water quality modeling for northern aquatic systems is emerging and little is known about the seasonal trends of SOD rates for complex aquatic systems. In this study, the seasonal trend of SOD rates for a northern chained river-lake system has been assessed through the calibration of a water quality model. Model calibration and validation showed good agreement with field measurements. Results of the study show that, in the riverine section, SOD20 rates decreased from 1.9 to 0.79 g/m2/day as urban effluent traveled along the river while a SOD20 rate of 2.2 g/m2/day was observed in the lakes. Seasonally, the SOD20 rates in summer were three times higher than those in winter for both river and lakes. The results of the study provide insights to the seasonal trend of SOD rates especially for northern rivers and lakes and can, thus, be useful for more complex water quality modeling studies in the region.
A Reduced-order NLTE Kinetic Model for Radiating Plasmas of Outer Envelopes of Stellar Atmospheres
Authors: Munafò Alessandro , Mansour Nagi N. , Panesi Marco
Published: April 2017

The present work proposes a self-consistent reduced-order NLTE kinetic model for radiating plasmas found in the outer layers of stellar atmospheres. A detailed collisional-radiative kinetic mechanism is constructed by leveraging the most up-to-date set of ab initio and experimental data available in the literature. This constitutes the starting point for the derivation of a reduced-order model, obtained by lumping the bound energy states into groups. In order to determine the needed thermo-physical group properties, uniform and Maxwell–Boltzmann energy distributions are used to reconstruct the energy population of each group. Finally, the reduced set of governing equations for the material gas and the radiation field is obtained based on the moment method. Applications consider the steady flow across a shock wave in partially ionized hydrogen. The results clearly demonstrate that adopting a Maxwell–Boltzmann grouping allows, on the one hand, for a substantial reduction of the number of unknowns and, on the other, to maintain accuracy for both gas and radiation quantities. Also, it is observed that, when neglecting line radiation, the use of two groups already leads to a very accurate resolution of the photo-ionization precursor, internal relaxation, and radiative cooling regions. The inclusion of line radiation requires adopting just one additional group to account for optically thin losses in the α, β, and γ lines of the Balmer and Paschen series. This trend has been observed for a wide range of shock wave velocities.
Apparent Disk-mass Reduction and Planetisimal Formation in GravitationallyUnstable Disks in Class 0/I Young Stellar Objects
Authors: Tsukamoto Y. , Okuzumi S. , Kataoka A.
Published: April 2017

We investigate the dust structure of gravitationally unstable disks undergoing mass accretion from the envelope, envisioning its application to Class 0/I young stellar objects (YSOs). We find that the dust disk quickly settles into a steady state and that, compared to a disk with interstellar medium (ISM) dust-to-gas mass ratio and micron-sized dust, the dust mass in the steady state decreases by a factor of 1/2 to 1/3, and the dust thermal emission decreases by a factor of 1/3 to 1/5. The latter decrease is caused by dust depletion and opacity decrease owing to dust growth. Our results suggest that the masses of gravitationally unstable disks in Class 0/I YSOs are underestimated by a factor of 1/3 to 1/5 when calculated from the dust thermal emission assuming an ISM dust-to-gas mass ratio and micron-sized dust opacity, and that a larger fraction of disks in Class 0/I YSOs is gravitationally unstable than was previously believed. We also investigate the orbital radius

within which planetesimals form via coagulation of porous dust aggregates and show that

becomes ∼20 au for a gravitationally unstable disk around a solar mass star. Because

increases as the gas surface density increases and a gravitationally unstable disk has maximum gas surface density,

is the theoretical maximum radius for planetesimal formation. We suggest that planetesimal formation in the Class 0/I phase is preferable to that in the Class II phase because a large amount of dust is supplied by envelope-to-disk accretion.
The Nature of Hard X-Ray (3–24 keV) Detected Luminous Infrared Galaxies in the COSMOS Field
Authors: Matsuoka Kenta , Ueda Yoshihiro
Published: April 2017

We investigate the nature of far-infrared (70 μm) and hard X-ray (3–24 keV) selected galaxies in the COSMOS field detected with both Spitzer and the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR). By matching the Spitzer-COSMOS catalog with the NuSTAR-COSMOS catalog, we obtain a sample consisting of a hyperluminous infrared galaxy with

, 12 ultraluminous infrared galaxies with

, and 10 luminous infrared galaxies with

, i.e., 23 Hy/U/LIRGs in total. Using their X-ray hardness ratios, we find that 12 sources are obscured active galactic nuclei (AGNs) with absorption column densities of

cm−2, including several Compton-thick (

cm−2) AGN candidates. On the basis of the infrared (60 μm) and intrinsic X-ray luminosities, we examine the relation between star formation (SF) and AGN luminosities of the 23 Hy/U/LIRGs. We find that the correlation is similar to that of the optically selected AGNs reported by Netzer, whereas local, far-infrared selected U/LIRGs show higher SF-to-AGN luminosity ratios than the average of our sample. This result suggests that our Hy/U/LIRGs detected both with Spitzer and NuSTAR are likely situated in a transition epoch between AGN-rising and cold-gas diminishing phases in SF-AGN evolutional sequences. The nature of a Compton-thick AGN candidate newly detected above 8 keV with NuSTAR (ID 245 in Civano et al.) is briefly discussed.
Are All Flare Ribbons Simply Connected to the Corona?*
Authors: Judge Philip G. , Paraschiv Alin , Lacatus Daniela , Donea Alina , Lindsey Charlie
Published: April 2017

We consider the observational basis for the belief that flare ribbons in the chromosphere result from energy transport from the overlying corona. We study ribbons of small flares using magnetic and intensity data from the Hinode, Solar Dynamics Observatory, and IRIS missions. While most ribbons appear connected to the corona and overlie regions of significant vertical magnetic field, we examine one ribbon with no clear evidence for such connections. Evolving horizontal magnetic fields seen with Hinode suggest that reconnection with preexisting fields below the corona can explain the data. The identification of just one, albeit small, ribbon, with no apparent connection to the corona, leads us to conclude that at least two mechanisms are responsible for the heating that leads to flare ribbon emission.
Light Curve and SED Modeling of the Gamma-Ray Binary 1FGL J1018.6–5856: Constraints on the Orbital Geometry and Relativistic Flow
Authors: An Hongjun , Romani Roger W.
Published: April 2017

We present broadband spectral energy distributions and light curves of the gamma-ray binary 1FGL J1018.6−5856 measured in the X-ray and the gamma-ray bands. We find that the orbital modulation in the low-energy gamma-ray band is similar to that in the X-ray band, suggesting a common spectral component. However, above a GeV the orbital light curve changes significantly. We suggest that the GeV band contains significant flux from a pulsar magnetosphere, while the X-ray to TeV light curves are dominated by synchrotron and Compton emission from an intrabinary shock (IBS). We find that a simple one-zone model is inadequate to explain the IBS emission, but that beamed Synchrotron-self Compton radiation from adiabatically accelerated plasma in the shocked pulsar wind can reproduce the complex multiband light curves, including the variable X-ray spike coincident with the gamma-ray maximum. The model requires an inclination of ∼50° and an orbital eccentricity of ∼0.35, consistent with the limited constraints from existing optical observations. This picture motivates searches for pulsations from the energetic young pulsar powering the wind shock.
Tecnologia e Educação: Estado da Arte no paisagismo do SENID
Authors: Bedin Everton , Locatelli Aline , Bedin Roberto Junior
Published: April 2017

Este artigo traz à tona resultados de uma pesquisa crítico-reflexiva de cunho virtual-bibliográfica, realizada no viés dos três anos do evento SENID sobre as publicações referentes à utilização das tecnologias e a qualificação nos processos ensino e aprendizagem, como suporte exacerbado à formação docente, políticas públicas e currículo flexibilizado. A análise dos dados realizou-se frente à pesquisa Estado da Arte de cunho quali-quantitativo via uso dos artigos completos e resumos expandidos disponíveis na página do evento. Verificou-se, por meio das publicações no desenho do Estado da Arte, a emersão de quatro categorias no viés da temática que findam, nos últimos três anos do SENID, as publicações referentes ao uso das tecnologias na educação. Não obstante, os dados apontam para o estabelecimento, a partir de uma certa ordenação das publicações, uma rede formada por diferentes elos ligados a partir do mesmo objetivo.
Planejamento para a Avaliação e Avaliação para o Replanejamento: Estudo de Caso com uma Sequência Didática sobre Saúde e Alimentação
Authors: Cirino Douglas William , Vinturi Erik Flávio , Nascimento Vitor Andrade , Xavier João Paulo De Oliveira , Oliveira Monique Maia de , Sirius Esaú , Vieira-Antoniassi Patrícia , Ghilardi-Lopes Natalia Pirani
Published: April 2017

Planejar sequências didáticas é uma tarefa complexa e que demanda investimento de tempo. Neste artigo relatamos e refletimos sobre a utilização de diferentes formas de avaliação planejadas para uma sequência didática com o tema “Saúde e Alimentação”. Observamos que muitos alunos se sentem desconfortáveis quando são submetidos a formas “não tradicionais” de avaliação, demonstrando insegurança em argumentar e expressar suas ideias, além de dificuldade em correlacionar informações. Além disso, é importante que o professor reveja continuamente seu planejamento em relação à avaliação, pois ao longo da aplicação da sequência didática observou-se a necessidade de adequação de aspectos inicialmente planejados. A sequência didática contribuiu para a formação inicial de licenciandos participantes do PIBID – UFABC, dentro de um contexto colaborativo e reflexivo.
Fundamentos da ciência das redes presentes nas redes sociais virtuais como instrumento de ensino de biologia
Authors: Draeger Deysielle Inês , Yonezawa Wilson Massashiro , Pegoraro Rene
Published: April 2017

A rede é um conjunto de nós interligados por diversos links. Este padrão está presente em diversas situações como: na malha viária, no estabelecimento de novas relações sociais e na própria Internet. A Ciência das Redes pressupõe que todas as redes obedecem aos mesmos princípios de organização, visto que há sempre um “nó” com potencial de atrair conexões e se transformar em disseminador de tendências. Considerando a adoção dos softwares de rede social pelos jovens e a necessidade da escola ressignificar as formas de transpor conteúdo de modo que acompanhe o desenvolvimento tecnológico, esse estudo analisou determinados padrões da Ciência de Redes em um grupo de discussão virtual, formados por alunos de uma escola pública, cujo tema era a manipulação do DNA. A pesquisa apresenta caráter misto (qualitativa-quantitativa), pois os dados foram colhidos por meio de interações diretas na rede social e entrevista com os alunos. Um dos resultados dessa análise foi a construção do indicador de participação individual (Indpi). Esta métrica ajuda na identificação de possíveis Hub no grupo. Concluímos que vários aspectos da Ciência de Redes estão presentes nos grupos de discussão virtual e que isso oferece uma nova dinâmica de ensino e construção coletiva do conhecimento entre alunos e professor.
Unidade de ensino potencialmente significativa para a abordagem do sistema respiratório humano: estudo de caso
Authors: Rosa Cleci Teresinha Werner da , Cavalcanti Juliano , Samudio Perez Carlos Ariel
Published: April 2017

Um dos maiores desafios para os professores atualmente é desenvolver metodologias que instiguem nos alunos o desejo por aprender. Por conta disso, observa-se um movimento de educadores e pesquisadores em busca da qualificação do processo de ensino e de aprendizagem em Ciências, especialmente no ensino fundamental. Em vista dessa necessidade, somada à percepção de que as metodologias utilizadas no ensino dessa componente curricular estão surtindo pouco efeito como favorecedoras na apropriação dos conteúdos, o presente estudo busca desenvolver, aplicar e avaliar uma proposta didático-metodológica apoiada na teoria cognitivista de Ausubel. Especificamente, o trabalho desenvolve uma Unidade de Ensino Potencialmente Significativo (UEPS) para o tema “sistema respiratório” nos anos finais do ensino fundamental, de modo a analisar a pertinência da proposta em termos de sua viabilidade enquanto estratégia didática. Os resultados do estudo indicam a viabilidade da proposta, especialmente em termos da sua potencialidade para o envolvimento e questionamento dos alunos.