bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Dose Distribution in Transition from 3-D CRT to IMRT Treatment Plans for Glioblastoma Multiforme' at Stage III or IV: A Clinical Study of a Brain Tumor
Authors: Malik Sadiq R , Reza Shohel , Hossain MM Shakhawat
Published: March 2018

Advancement in Cancer Therapy Technology (CTT) due to Software, Hardware and precise delivery of radiation dose has enhanced the quality of life of cancer patients. This report aims at the application of 3-D CRT (Three Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy) and IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy) for a quality of treatment. Other anatomical sites viz. Prostate, Lung, etc. may also be treated provided a better tool is applied for target delineation for which FUSION of CT and MRI images are used to ascertain differences in tissue density. This Fusion image of 3 mm slices offer accurate contouring of the tumor. The oncologist and/or physicist perform delineation of (I) GTV (Gross Tumor Volume), (II) CTV (Clinical Target Volume), (III) PTV (Planning Target Volume), (IV) TV (Treated Volume) and (V) OARs (Organs at Risk). This is done to secure conformal dose distribution and justify the clinical objectives of Tumor Control Probability (TCP) by reducing the normal tissue complication probability (NTCP).   The implication of this study outlines the fundamental goal of effective treatment procedures by comparing treatment plans of 3-D CRT and IMRT. Tolerance levels of dose to different organs are optimized by the analysis of random and systemic geometrical deviations, margin on target volumes, conformity index (CI), patient selection process and, of course, the shape and stage of target. The comparative parameters of treatment plans are segmented and tabulated to implicate the application of necessary tools to decide on a treatment plan for similar patients.

Bangladesh J. Nuclear Med. 19(1): 64-67, January 2016
Patient Preparation for 18 F FDG PET-CT scan A Short Communication
Authors: Begum Fatima , Hussain Raihan , Begum Shamim Momtaz Ferdousi , Hasan Mizanul
Published: March 2018

Abstract not available

Bangladesh J. Nuclear Med. 19(1): 68-69, January 2016
Plenary Session
Authors: Hasan Mizanul
Published: March 2018

Abstract not available

Bangladesh J. Nuclear Med. 19(1): 71-84, January 2016
Folic acid, vitamin B12 and homocysteine levels following olanzapine administration in schizophrenia patients
Authors: Hasnat Fahmida , Dewan Zesmin F. , Misbahuddin Mir , Akhter Nargis , Shamsunnahar Jhunu , Bhuiyan Habiba Akhter
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to assess the levels of folic acid, vitamin B12 and homocysteine in the serum of schizophrenia patients (n=20) and to evaluate the effect of olanzapine on these biomarkers. The blood was also collected from the 10 healthy volunteers as control. Compared to control, the serum folic acid (p=0.005) and vitamin B12 levels (p=0.211) were higher in the schizophrenia patients, whereas no difference was evident in the serum homocysteine level. But significantly higher levels of serum folic acid (p=0.005), vitamin B12 (p=0.047) and significantly lower level of serum homocysteine (p=0.000) were observed after 10 weeks of olanzapine administration. BPRS score was reduced significantly after intervention. The Pearson correlation coefficient test showed a statistically not significant negative relationship between the serum folate, vitamin B12 and homocysteine levels. In conclusion, olanzapine can significantly elevate the  serum folic acid and vitamin B12 levels whereas it can lower the serum homocysteine level which may contribute to the improvement of symptoms of schizophrenia.
Clinical evaluation of bulk-fill composite resin and layered composite resin restoration in class I cavity of permanent molar teeth
Authors: Talukder Mohammad Fida Hasan , Hossain Mozammal , Moral Mohammad Ali Asgor
Published: March 2018

The purpose of the present study was to compare the clinical performance of bulk-fill composite resin with that of layered composite resin restorations in occlusal class I cavity of permanent molar teeth. This study includes a total of 104 teeth having class I cavity of 3-4 mm depth in the occlusal surface. They were restored either with layered composite resin or bulk-fill composite resin of 52 teeth in each group. To observe the retention, marginal adaptation and color match, all restorations were assessed by using modified United States Public Health Services (USPHS) and Ryge’s criteria at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. The results of 12 months observation showed that retention of 38 layered composite and 48 bulk-fill composite resin restorations revealed alpha rating, which was statistically significant. The marginal adaptation of 37 layered composite resin and 47 bulk-fill composite resin restorations also demonstrated alpha rating and the differences between two groups were statistically significant. However, there were no significant differences between the layered composite resin and bulk-fill composite resin restorations in respect to color match. It can be concluded that bulk-fill composite resin showed better clinical outcome than that of layered composite resin in the restorations of occlusal class I cavity.
Antimicrobial resistance of bacterial pathogens in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Ahmed Farzana , Raj Aftab Yousuf , Nahar Lutfun , Hasan Zahidul
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study was to identify the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern and relevant treatment options in a neonatal intensive care unit from January 2012 and June 2016. Out of the total 78 culture positive samples, Gram positive and Gram negative microorganisms were 26% and 74% respectively. Acinetobacter remained the predominant isolate (32.1%) followed by Klebsiella species (18.0%). Most of the Gram positive isolates exhibited higher resistance to penicillin, cephalosporin, macrolides, gentamycin and quinolones. Gram positive isolates had sensitivity of 100% to linezolid, vancomycin, chloramphenicol followed by rifampicin (84%). In comparison to other commonly used antibiotics, sensitivity to these four medicines was statistically significant (p<0.05). Similarly, most of the Gram negative bacteria showed resistance to cephalosporin, aminoglycosides. About two-third cases showed resistant to meropenum, quinolones and combination preparation of piperacillin and tazobactam. Overall sensitivity among the Gram negative isolates was to polymixin B (100%) and minocycline (97%), followed by colistin (83%). In comparison to other commonly used antibiotics, sensitivity to these three medicines was statistically significant (p<0.05).
A comparative study of atorvastatin and rosuvastatin on lipid lowering efficacy in hyperlipidemic patients
Authors: Tonu Samia Haque , Dewan Zesmin Fauzia , Akhter Nargis , Banerjee Sajal Krishna
Published: March 2018

The aim of the present study was to compare the lipid lowering effect of atorvastatin and rosuvastatin in patients (n=52) with hyperlipidemia. Patients were assigned to atorvastatin 10 mg or rosuvastatin 5 mg daily for 8 weeks. The blood was collected at baseline and after intervention to measure the serum lipid profile. The level of serum total cholesterol in both atorvastatin and rosuvastatin groups was significantly reduced after intervention (p<0.00001 and p<0.00001 respectively) but no statistically significant difference (p=0.503) was observed between the two statin-treated groups. The reduction of serum triglyceride level was also significant (p=0.046 in atorvastatin group and p=0.0006 in rosuvastatin group). No significant difference was observed between the two groups (p=0.312). The serum LDL-C level was reduced significantly in both atorvastatin group (p<0.00001) and rosuvastatin group (p<0.00001). Again no statistically significant difference (p=0.749) was observed between the two groups. No significant change was observed in the serum HDL level. Intergroup difference was not significant (p=0.721). The present study indicates that both atorvastatin and rosuvastatin improve the lipid profile but no significant change was observed between the two groups.
Diagnosing oral squamous cell carcinoma using salivary biomarkers
Authors: Khan Mohammad Sayedur Rahman , Siddika Fatama , Xu Sun , Liu Xiao Lin , Shuang Mei , Liang Hao Fu
Published: March 2018

Oral cancer is becoming frightful public health issue because of its raising incidence as well as mortality rates worldwide. Out of all types of oral cancer, the oral squamous cell carcinoma is the most common malignant tumor with an incidence of about 90%. This fatal disease is diagnosed through a comprehensive clinical examination followed by the histological assessments forming the diagnostic gold standard. Although the oral cavity is simply accessible, but maximum oral cancers are usually diagnosed at the late stage. Consequently, it is necessary to implicate newer screening and early diagnosing approaches which will diminish the morbidity as well as mortality related to this disease. Saliva which is a complex biological fluid has a direct relation with the oral cancer lesion and contains abnormal DNA, RNA, protein molecules released by the malignant cells. These can be labelled as neoplastic biomarkers proposed to play an important role in diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic purposes for oral cancers as well as other diseases. The aim of this review paper is to concisely discuss the different types of potential salivary biomarkers as well as their interaction for screening of oral cancers.
Wide local resection of sacral chordoma through posterior midline approach
Authors: Islam Md. Anowarul , Mishra Dipendra , Batajoo Santosh , Shrestha Manish
Published: March 2018

This study was performed in 21 patients with sacral chordoma from July 2008 to June 2017 and posterior surgical approach was used for resection. Out of 21 patients, 12 had done subtotal sacrectomy and the remaining 9 had done partial sacrectomy. Their follow-up periods were at least five years. Operative time ranged between two to four hours. All patients recovered well from operation and two to five units of blood transfusion were needed for each. After operation, majority of the patients developed some bowel and bladder dysfunction and five patients developed wound infection. During the follow-up, two patients had tumor recurrence and one patient expired two years after operation. The remaining 18 patients were tumor-free at the 5-years follow-up. Wide surgical resection via the posterior midline approach could be a good management plan for the sacral chordoma. However, complete removal with surgical margin varies according to the location of the tumor.
Enhancing Optically Pumped Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Amplified Spontaneous Emission via Compound Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Wu Xiaoyan , Li Yanglong , Li Wei , Wu Lingyuan , Fu Bo , Wang Weiping , Liu Guodong , Zhang Dayong , Zhao Jianheng , Chen Ping
Published: March 2018

Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite has attracted intensive attention from researchers as the gain medium in lasing devices. However, achieving electrically driven lasing remains a significant challenge. Modifying the devices’ structure to enhance the optically pumped amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) is the key issue. In this work, gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) are first doped into PEDOT: PSS buffer layer in a slab waveguide device structure: Quartz/PEDOT: PSS (with or w/o Au NPs)/CH3NH3PbBr3. As a result, the facile device shows a significantly enhanced ASE intensity and a narrowed full width at half maximum. Based on experiments and theoretical simulation data, the improvement is mainly a result of the compound surface plasmon resonance, including simultaneous near- and far-field effects, both of which could increase the density of excitons excited state and accelerate the radiative decay process. This method is highly significant for the design and development and fabrication of high-performance organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite lasing diodes.
Generative Street Addresses from Satellite Imagery
Authors: Demir İlke , Hughes Forest , Raj Aman , Dhruv Kaunil , Muddala Suryanarayana , Garg Sanyam , Doo Barrett , Raskar Ramesh
Published: March 2018

We describe our automatic generative algorithm to create street addresses from satellite images by learning and labeling roads, regions, and address cells. Currently, 75% of the world’s roads lack adequate street addressing systems. Recent geocoding initiatives tend to convert pure latitude and longitude information into a memorable form for unknown areas. However, settlements are identified by streets, and such addressing schemes are not coherent with the road topology. Instead, we propose a generative address design that maps the globe in accordance with streets. Our algorithm starts with extracting roads from satellite imagery by utilizing deep learning. Then, it uniquely labels the regions, roads, and structures using some graph- and proximity-based algorithms. We also extend our addressing scheme to (i) cover inaccessible areas following similar design principles; (ii) be inclusive and flexible for changes on the ground; and (iii) lead as a pioneer for a unified street-based global geodatabase. We present our results on an example of a developed city and multiple undeveloped cities. We also compare productivity on the basis of current ad hoc and new complete addresses. We conclude by contrasting our generative addresses to current industrial and open solutions.
Trends in Structure and Thermodynamic Properties of Normal Rare Earth Carbonates and Rare Earth Hydroxycarbonates
Authors: Kim Paul , Anderko Andre , Navrotsky Alexandra , Riman Richard
Published: March 2018

A general overview of the trends in structural and thermodynamic properties that have been identified within the hydrated normal rare earth carbonates and the rare earth hydroxycarbonates is presented. Based upon available literature, we demonstrate the trends in crystallographic unit cell parameters, thermal stability, aqueous solubility, and thermochemical properties. These trends can be attributed to both the unique chemistry and strong similarity of the rare earth elements. There are also inconsistent trends that signal research needs to better understand the structure–energy relationships of the rare earth carbonates.
Cloning and Functional Characterization of Two 4-Coumarate: CoA Ligase Genes from Selaginella moellendorffii
Authors: Liu Xin-Yan , Wang Ping-Ping , Wu Yi-Feng , Cheng Ai-Xia , Lou Hong-Xiang
Published: March 2018

Selaginella is an extant lycopodiophyte genus, which is representative of an ancient lineage of tracheophytes. The important evolutionary status makes it a valuable resource for the study of metabolic evolution in vascular plants. 4-coumarate: CoA ligase (4CL) is the pivotal enzyme that controls the flow of carbon through the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway into the specific lignin, flavonoid, and wall-bound phenolics biosynthesis pathways. Although 4CLs have been extensively characterized in other vascular plants, little is known of their functions in Selaginella. Here, we isolated two 4CL genes (Sm4CL1 and Sm4CL2) from Selaginella moellendorffii. Based on the enzymatic activities of the recombinant proteins, both of these genes encoded bona fide 4CLs. The 4CL isoforms in S. moellendorffii have different activities: Sm4CL2 was more active than Sm4CL1. The enzymatic properties and gene expression patterns indicated that the 4CL genes have been conserved in the evolution of vascular plants.
Novel Trifluoromethylcoumarinyl Urea Derivatives: Synthesis, Characterization, Fluorescence, and Bioactivity
Authors: Qiao Lili , Hao Shuanghong
Published: March 2018

A series of novel trifluoromethylcoumarinyl urea derivatives were designed, synthesized, and characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and HR-ESI-MS. The fluorescence spectra of the target compounds were recorded. The spectra show that most of the title compounds glow green with λmaxem of 500–517 nm, while compounds 5r, 5s, 5u, and 5l (compounds named by authors) glow violet with λmaxem of 381–443 nm. Moreover, the herbicidal and antifungal activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their potential use as pesticides. The results indicate that compound 5f against the caulis of Amaranthus retroflexus and compounds 5j and 5l against the taproot of Digitaria sanguinalis are equivalent to the commercial herbicide Acetochlor. Nine of the title compounds are more antifungal than commercial fungicide Carbendazim against Botrytis cinerea.
New Terpenoids from Chamaecyparis formosensis (Cupressaceae) Leaves with Modulatory Activity on Matrix Metalloproteases 2 and 9
Authors: Chang Meng-Lun , Mei Hui-Ching , Kuo I-Chih , Hsiao George , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Lee Ching-Kuo
Published: March 2018

Chamaecyparis formosensis is Taiwan’s most representative tree, and has high economic value. To date, only a few active chemical constituents have been reported for C. formosensis. In this study, 37 secondary metabolites, including three new compounds (1–3), were extracted from the leaves of C. formosensis. The compounds isolated from the ethyl acetate layer were used at different concentrations to treat HT-1080 human fibrosarcoma cells and to evaluate their effects on matrix metalloprotease 2 (MMP-2) and 9 (MMP-9) expression. Based on extensive analysis of data from high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS) as well as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infrared (IR), and ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, the new compounds were identified as 11,12-dihydroxyisodaucenoic acid (1), 12-hydroxyisodaucenoic acid (2), and 1-oxo-2α,3β-dihydroxytotarol (3). Known compounds 4–37 were identified by comparing their spectroscopic data with data reported in the literature. Biological activity tests by gelatin zymographic analysis revealed that seven compounds, including new compound 2, have no cytotoxic effect on HT-1080 cells and were found to increase MMP-2 or MMP-9 expression by 1.25- to 1.59-fold at lower concentrations of 10–50 µM. These naturally derived regulatory compounds could potentially serve as a novel pharmaceutical basis for medical purposes.
An Investigation of Atomic Structures Derived from X-ray Crystallography and Cryo-Electron Microscopy Using Distal Blocks of Side-Chains
Authors: Chen Lin , He Jing , Sazzed Salim , Walker Rayshawn
Published: March 2018

Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is a structure determination method for large molecular complexes. As more and more atomic structures are determined using this technique, it is becoming possible to perform statistical characterization of side-chain conformations. Two data sets were involved to characterize block lengths for each of the 18 types of amino acids. One set contains 9131 structures resolved using X-ray crystallography from density maps with better than or equal to 1.5 Å resolutions, and the other contains 237 protein structures derived from cryo-EM density maps with 2–4 Å resolutions. The results show that the normalized probability density function of block lengths is similar between the X-ray data set and the cryo-EM data set for most of the residue types, but differences were observed for ARG, GLU, ILE, LYS, PHE, TRP, and TYR for which conformations with certain shorter block lengths are more likely to be observed in the cryo-EM set with 2–4 Å resolutions.
From the Synthesis of Nanovehicles to Participation in the First Nanocar Race—View from the French Team
Authors: Jacquot de Rouville Henri-Pierre , Kammerer Claire , Rapenne Gwénaël
Published: March 2018

This review article presents our accomplished work on the synthesis of molecular triptycene wheels and their introduction into nanovehicles such as wheelbarrows and nanocars, equipped with two and four wheels, respectively. The architecture of nanovehicles is based on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which provide a potential cargo zone. Our strategy allowed us to obtain planar or curved nanocars, exhibiting different mobilities on metallic surfaces. Our curved nanocar participated in the first nanocar race organized in Toulouse (France) on 28 and 29 April 2017.
Variable Levels of Tolerance to Water Stress (Drought) and Associated Biochemical Markers in Tunisian Barley Landraces
Authors: Dbira Sameh , Al Hassan Mohamad , Gramazio Pietro , Ferchichi Ali , Vicente Oscar , Prohens Jaime , Boscaiu Monica
Published: March 2018

Due to its high tolerance to abiotic stress, barley (Hordeum vulgare) is cultivated in many arid areas of the world. In the present study, we evaluate the tolerance to water stress (drought) in nine accessions of “Ardhaoui” barley landraces from different regions of Tunisia. The genetic diversity of the accessions is evaluated with six SSR markers. Seedlings from the nine accessions are subjected to water stress by completely stopping irrigation for three weeks. A high genetic diversity is detected among the nine accessions, with no relationships between genetic distance and geographical or ecogeographical zone. The analysis of growth parameters and biochemical markers in the water stress-treated plants in comparison to their respective controls indicated great variability among the studied accessions. Accession 2, from El May Island, displayed high tolerance to drought. Increased amounts of proline in water-stressed plants could not be correlated with a better response to drought, as the most tolerant accessions contained lower levels of this osmolyte. A good correlation was established between the reduction of growth and degradation of chlorophylls and increased levels of malondialdehyde and total phenolics. These biochemical markers may be useful for identifying drought tolerant materials in barley.
Design, Synthesis and Docking Studies of Flavokawain B Type Chalcones and Their Cytotoxic Effects on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 Cell Lines
Authors: Abu Bakar Addila , Akhtar Muhammad , Mohd Ali Norlaily , Yeap Swee , Quah Ching , Loh Wan-Sin , Alitheen Noorjahan , Zareen Seema , Ul-Haq Zaheer , Shah Syed
Published: March 2018

Flavokawain B (1) is a natural chalcone extracted from the roots of Piper methysticum, and has been proven to be a potential cytotoxic compound. Using the partial structure of flavokawain B (FKB), about 23 analogs have been synthesized. Among them, compounds 8, 13 and 23 were found in new FKB derivatives. All compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic properties against two breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, thus establishing the structure–activity relationship. The FKB derivatives 16 (IC50 = 6.50 ± 0.40 and 4.12 ± 0.20 μg/mL), 15 (IC50 = 5.50 ± 0.35 and 6.50 ± 1.40 μg/mL) and 13 (IC50 = 7.12 ± 0.80 and 4.04 ± 0.30 μg/mL) exhibited potential cytotoxic effects on the MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. However, the methoxy group substituted in position three and four in compound 2 (IC50 = 8.90 ± 0.60 and 6.80 ± 0.35 μg/mL) and 22 (IC50 = 8.80 ± 0.35 and 14.16 ± 1.10 μg/mL) exhibited good cytotoxicity. The lead compound FKB (1) showed potential cytotoxicity (IC50 = 7.70 ± 0.30 and 5.90 ± 0.30 μg/mL) against two proposed breast cancer cell lines. It is evident that the FKB skeleton is unique for anticancer agents, additionally, the presence of halogens (Cl and F) in position 2 and 3 also improved the cytotoxicity in FKB series. These findings could help to improve the future drug discovery process to treat breast cancer. A molecular dynamics study of active compounds revealed stable interactions within the active site of Janus kinase. The structures of all compounds were determined by 1H-NMR, EI-MS, IR and UV and X-ray crystallographic spectroscopy techniques.
Modifying Thermal Switchability of Liquid Crystalline Nanoparticles by Alkyl Ligands Variation
Authors: Grzelak Jan , Żuk Maciej , Tupikowska Martyna , Lewandowski Wiktor
Published: March 2018

By coating plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) with thermally responsive liquid crystals (LCs) it is possible to prepare reversibly reconfigurable plasmonic nanomaterials with prospective applications in optoelectronic devices. However, simple and versatile methods to precisely tailor properties of liquid-crystalline nanoparticles (LC NPs) are still required. Here, we report a new method for tuning structural properties of assemblies of nanoparticles grafted with a mixture of promesogenic and alkyl thiols, by varying design of the latter. As a model system, we used Ag and Au nanoparticles that were coated with three-ring promesogenic molecules and dodecanethiol ligand. These LC NPs self-assemble into switchable lamellar (Ag NPs) or tetragonal (Au NPs) aggregates, as determined with small angle X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Reconfigurable assemblies of Au NPs with different unit cell symmetry (orthorombic) are formed if hexadecanethiol and 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecanethiol were used in the place of dodecanethiol; in the case of Ag NPs the use of 11-hydroxyundecanethiol promotes formation of a lamellar structure as in the reference system, although with substantially broader range of thermal stability (140 vs. 90 °C). Our results underline the importance of alkyl ligand functionalities in determining structural properties of liquid-crystalline nanoparticles, and, more generally, broaden the scope of synthetic tools available for tailoring properties of reversibly reconfigurable plasmonic nanomaterials.
Biocompatible Materials Based on Self-Assembling Peptides on Ti25Nb10Zr Alloy: Molecular Structure and Organization Investigated by Synchrotron Radiation Induced Techniques
Authors: Secchi Valeria , Franchi Stefano , Santi Marta , Vladescu Alina , Braic Mariana , Skála Tomáš , Nováková Jaroslava , Dettin Monica , Zamuner Annj , Iucci Giovanna , Battocchio Chiara
Published: March 2018

In this work, we applied advanced Synchrotron Radiation (SR) induced techniques to the study of the chemisorption of the Self Assembling Peptide EAbuK16, i.e., H-Abu-Glu-Abu-Glu-Abu-Lys-Abu-Lys-Abu-Glu-Abu-Glu-Abu-Lys-Abu-Lys-NH2 that is able to spontaneously aggregate in anti-parallel β-sheet conformation, onto annealed Ti25Nb10Zr alloy surfaces. This synthetic amphiphilic oligopeptide is a good candidate to mimic extracellular matrix for bone prosthesis, since its β-sheets stack onto each other in a multilayer oriented nanostructure with internal pores of 5–200 nm size. To prepare the biomimetic material, Ti25Nb10Zr discs were treated with aqueous solutions of EAbuK16 at different pH values. Here we present the results achieved by performing SR-induced X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (SR-XPS), angle-dependent Near Edge X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy, FESEM and AFM imaging on Ti25Nb10Zr discs after incubation with self-assembling peptide solution at five different pH values, selected deliberately to investigate the best conditions for peptide immobilization.
Technical Feasibility and Comprehensive Sustainability Assessment of Sweet Sorghum for Bioethanol Production in China
Authors: Yang Xiaolin , Li Meng , Liu Huihui , Ren Lantian , Xie Guanghui
Published: March 2018

Under dual pressures of energy and environmental security, sweet sorghum is becoming one of the most promising feedstocks for biofuel production. In the present study, the technical feasibility of sweet sorghum production was assessed in eight agricultural regions in China using the Sweet Sorghum Production Technique Maturity Model. Three top typical agricultural zones were then selected for further sustainability assessment of sweet sorghum production: Northeast China (NEC), Huang-Huai-Hai Basin (HHHB) and Ganxin Region (GX). Assessment results demonstrated that NEC exhibited the best sustainable production of sweet sorghum, with a degree of technical maturity value of 0.8066, followed by HHHB and GX, with corresponding values of 0.7531 and 0.6594, respectively. Prospective economic profitability analysis indicated that bioethanol production from sweet sorghum was not feasible using current technologies in China. More efforts are needed to dramatically improve feedstock mechanization logistics while developing new bioethanol productive technology to reduce the total cost. This study provides insight and information to guide further technological development toward profitable industrialization and large-scale sweet sorghum bioethanol production.
Social Sustainability Assessment across Provinces in China: An Analysis of Combining Intermediate Approach with Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Window Analysis
Authors: Zhang Aizhen , Li Aijun , Gao Yaping
Published: March 2018

There are two categories (i.e., radial and non-radial category) in conventional DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis). Recently, intermediate approach was put forward as a new third category. Intermediate approach is a newly proposed approach and there are quite limited related studies. This study contributes to the DEA studies by putting forward an analytical framework of combining intermediate approach and DEA window analysis along with the concepts of natural and managerial disposability. Such combination is quite meaningful and this new approach has three important features. To the best of our knowledge, such type of research has never been investigated by the existing studies. As an application, this approach is used to evaluate the performance of provinces in China from 2007 to 2014. Furthermore, this study develops a series of performance indices from different perspectives. This study identifies the three important findings. Firstly, eco-technology advancements can achieve economic prosperity and environmental protection simultaneously, and thus should become a new direction of climate policies. Secondly, considerable differences exist in a series of indices that evaluates the performance of various provinces and pollutants from different respective. Then, sufficient attention should be given to the provinces and the pollutants with poor performance. Finally, the Chinese government should promote efficiency improvement by “catching up” for provinces with poor performance in the short term. In addition, the central government should reduce regional disparity in order to promote the social sustainability in the long term.
Hessebius luculentus, a new species of the genus Hessebius Verhoeff, 1941 from China (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
Authors: Ma Huiqin , Lu Yanmin , Liu Haipeng , Hou Xiaojie , Pei Sujian
Published: March 2018

Hessebius luculentussp. n.(Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae), recently discovered from Shandan County, Zhangye City, Province Gansu, Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China, is described. Morphologically it resemblesH. jangtseanus(Verhoeff, 1942), but can be easily distinguished from the latter by size of Tömösváry’s organ’s, the morphological characters of a protuberance on the dorsal end of the second article of the female gonopods; and obvious differences in the dorsal plectrotaxy of both the 14thand 15thlegs. The main morphological characters and a key to the known Chinese species of genusHessebiusbased on adult specimens are presented.
Molecular phylogenetic analysis of a taxonomically unstable ranid from Sumatra, Indonesia, reveals a new genus with gastromyzophorous tadpoles and two new species
Authors: Arifin Umilaela , Smart Utpal , Hertwig Stefan T. , Smith Eric N. , Iskandar Djoko T. , Haas Alexander
Published: March 2018

The presence of an adhesive abdominal sucker (gastromyzophory) allows tadpoles of certain species of anurans to live in fast-flowing streams. Gastromyzophorous tadpoles are rare among anurans, known only in certain American bufonids and Asian ranids. To date,Huia sumatrana, which inhabits cascading streams, has been the only Sumatran ranid known to possess gastromyzophorous tadpoles. In the absence of thorough sampling and molecular barcoding of adults and larvae, it has remained to be confirmed whether other Sumatran ranid species living in similar habitats, i.e.,Chalcorana crassiovis, possesses this larval type. Moreover, the taxonomic status of this species has long been uncertain and its taxonomic position within the Ranidae, previously based exclusively on morphological characters, has remained unresolved. To study the diversity and relationships of these frogs and to establish the identity of newly collected gastromyzophorous tadpoles from Sumatra, we compared genetic sequences ofC. crassiovis-like taxa from a wide range of sites on Sumatra. We conducted bayesian and maximum likelihood phylogenetic analyses on a concatenated dataset of mitochondrial (12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and tRNAval) and nuclear (RAG1 and TYR) gene fragments. Our analyses recoveredC. crassiovisto be related toClinotarsus,Huia, andMeristogenys. The DNA barcodes of the gastromyzophorous tadpoles matched adults from the same sites. Herein, we provide a re-description of adultC. crassiovisand propose “C. kampeni” as a synonym of this species. The molecular evidence, morphological features, and distribution suggest the presence of two related new species. The two new species andC. crassiovistogether represent a distinct phylogenetic clade possessing unique molecular and morphological synapomorphies, thus warranting a new genus.
¿Eludiendo o cortejando la controversia? La inversión extranjera directa (IED) china en las industrias extractivas de América Latina
Authors: Abdenur Adriana Erthal
Published: March 2018

China se ha convertido en un actor clave en el sector desarrollo de América Latina y el Caribe (ALC), no solo por el comercio sino también por el creciente espectro y visibilidad de su inversión extranjera directa (IED). Sin embargo, las inversiones chinas en la región están lejos de ser homogéneas, oscilando no solo en el tiempo y el espacio, sino también en las modalidades de incorporación a las economías de ALC. En las industrias extractivas, los actores chinos se apoyan en una amplia gama de estrategias para abrir mercados y asegurarse así el acceso a petróleo y minerales. Este capítulo desagrega el concepto de IED en tres amplias categorías —proyectos nuevos (greenfield projects), fusiones y adquisiciones, y empresas conjuntas— para analizar cómo el capital chino penetra los sectores extractivos de ALC. El capítulo argumenta que, enfrentados a un panorama relativamente poco familiar y a nuevas fuentes de incertidumbre, las empresas chinas tienden a “probar las aguas” antes de entrar a actividades propias de proyectos nuevos como la minería o la perforación directas. Esta aproximación cauta marca un grado de aprendizaje institucional de las partes interesadas chinas, así como el deseo de ahorrarse acusaciones de neocolonialismo, dependencia impuesta y adhesión laxa a las regulaciones formales.
Hacia regímenes para la gestión sostenible de los recursos minerales. Reformas constitucionales, derecho y jurisprudencia en América Latina
Authors: Bastida Ana Elizabeth , Bustos Luis
Published: March 2018

El presente artículo traza un recorrido por las tendencias en materia de legislación minera en América Latina. Se centra en el análisis de la jurisprudencia de la Corte Constitucional de Colombia en torno a la interpretación de las condiciones y procesos de toma de decisiones en la actividad en el marco del desarrollo sostenible y presenta una aproximación inicial del modelo de organización económica y de legislación sectorial adoptados en Bolivia. El capítulo vislumbra el tránsito desde regímenes sectoriales focalizados en la exploración y explotación, hacia regímenes para los procesos de toma de decisiones que integren los principios constitucionales y los marcos jurídicos aplicables a la gestión del territorio y sus recursos desde una mirada integradora e inclusiva. El énfasis está puesto en reflexionar acerca de las brechas de diseño jurídico e institucional y en los desafíos correspondientes. Entre éstos, se encuentra la necesidad de fortalecer las capacidades institucionales y de los actores que participan en los procesos de toma de decisiones a fin de avanzar los esfuerzos dirigidos a promover la gestión sostenible de los recursos minerales en la región.
Innovative Approaches in Teaching and Learning for Sciences
Authors: Chua Lin Lin , Chia Adeline Yoke Yin , Yong Phelim Voon Chen
Published: March 2018

It is a challenging task to produce science graduates who are successful academically as well as competent in various life-long skills that are needed for a successful career. To innovate the learning process and promote skill development, students should be encouraged to practise self-directed learning via online learning materials and e-learning tools, in addition to attending the conventional face-to-face lectures. In this chapter, the importance of a shift in the teaching and learning paradigm from teacher-centered to learner-centered learning is highlighted. The methods and approaches behind a successful implementation of blended learning for undergraduate science programs are discussed. Various e-learning tools and appropriate e-learning activities that can promote the development of self-directed and collaborative learning are also described in detail.
Online Leaders Increase Three Types of Capital
Authors: Kolbaek Ditte
Published: March 2018

This chapter explores 10 years of development in online leadership by asking, How may information and communications technology (ICT) increase the economic, cultural, or social capital of online leaders in a global information-technology company classified as big business? Drawing on practice theory, this chapter is aimed at investigating online leaders' approach to their role seen “from inside,” particularly in regards to three types of capital (social, cultural, and economic capital). This qualitative case study employs the methods of memory work and document analysis covering the development of ICT by Oracle, a global IT company from 2002 to 2012. The analysis provides insights into four themes: first, establishment of common ground for cooperation; second, working practices; third, critical competencies; and fourth, stock valuation trends. The findings indicate that ICT supports the enhancement of all three types of capital.
Technology and Presence
Authors: Nortvig Anne-Mette
Published: March 2018

This chapter presents and discusses the concept of presence in online dialogues and interactions. The point of departure in this discussion is that of multitasking and social presence. Then, the chapter frames different e-learning scenarios that give participants the impression of being—or not being—present in the same room although geographically dispersed. On the basis of theoretical inspiration from symbolic interactionism and ethnomethodology, educators' new roles in e-learning are discussed in the context of empirical material collected from an e-learning program in a physiotherapy school. In addition, the concept of multi-presence is presented. This chapter argues that multi-presence occurs in both online and offline interactions and that, as a result of technology, is utilized in both professional and learning situations.
UX (User Experience)-Driven Website Design Utilizing Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) Multi-Attribute Decision Modeling
Authors: Cheek Ron , Sale Martha , Wolverton Colleen Carraher
Published: March 2018

The success of an organization's website is determined by the user's experience (UX). Yet many organizations continue to struggle to find tools to strategically analyze the UX's satisfaction with their websites and overall online presence. While there have been numerous studies offering “best practices” for website design, most of these are dated and do not take into consideration UX's experience and social media tools that come into the market. In this chapter, over 900 surveys were conducted on Inc. Magazine's Top 500 list (2011-13) of fastest growing companies in the United States. The analysis of these surveys resulted in a list of shared elements (best practices) common to the websites surveyed. Through the use of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) multi-attribute decision model, the authors developed a measure by which companies can assess their customer's experience and compare it to these best practices model. This model provides an internally consistent, robust model against which to measure an organization's website based on the user's experience (UX).
Comprehensive Learning Particle Swarm Optimization for Structural System Identification
Authors: Tang Hesheng , Guo Xueyuan , Xie Lijun , Xue Songtao
Published: March 2018

This chapter introduces a novel swarm-intelligence-based algorithm named the comprehensive learning particle swarm optimization (CLPSO) to identify parameters of structural systems, which is formulated as a high-dimensional multi-modal numerical optimization problem. With the new strategy in this variant of particle swarm optimization (PSO), historical best information for all other particles is used to update a particle's velocity. This means that the particles have more exemplars to learn from and a larger potential space to fly, avoiding premature convergence. Simulation results for identifying the parameters of a five degree-of-freedom (DOF) structural system under conditions including limited output data, noise polluted signals, and no prior knowledge of mass, damping, or stiffness are presented to demonstrate improved estimation of these parameters by CLPSO when compared with those obtained from PSO. In addition, the efficiency and applicability of the proposed method are experimentally examined by a 12-story shear building shaking table model.
Mastering Business Process Management and Business Intelligence in Global Business
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: March 2018

This chapter describes the overviews of Business Process Management (BPM) and Business Intelligence (BI); the importance of BPM in global business; and the importance of BI in global business. BPM enables organizations to align business functions with customer needs and helps executives determine how to deploy, monitor, and measure the organizational resources. When properly executed, BPM has the ability to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and minimize risk in global business. BI includes the applications, tools, and best practices that enable the analysis of information to improve organizational performance. Companies use BI to detect the significant events and identify the business trends in order to quickly adapt to their changing business environment. The chapter argues that applying BPM and BI has the potential to enhance organizational performance and reach strategic goals in global business.
Missed Opportunities From Misalignment of Project and Operational Requirements
Authors: Jarman Mark F. , Dreher Lachlan G.
Published: March 2018

There is a strategic misalignment between project and operational paradigm requirements due to competing and divergent interests resulting in risks from design, construct, and commissioning phases of a project that are transferred to the operational phase of a project life cycle. The risk transfer results from non-alignment of management requirements vertically within an organisation for a total view of risk profile over the full project life cycle. This chapter will explore the issues found from experience and propose structured risk-based solutions for integrating into management requirements that can be measured and monitored for success.
Reactive and Proactive Dynamic Capabilities
Authors: Holsapple Clyde W. , Oh Jae-Young
Published: March 2018

This chapter investigates the dynamic capabilities of market creators and followers by studying the nature of the environments they face. The turbulent and rapidly changing business environment forces a firm seeking to sustain its competitiveness to choose whether to enter an emerging market or create a new market. Both directions can lead firms to success in a market but only when they cultivate appropriate dynamic capabilities. In the mobile industry, for instance, the different approaches for success of Apple, market creator of the smart phone, and Samsung, a successful follower in that emerging market, provide an example for considering and understanding such capabilities. In this study, the authors examine ways in which several theories attempt to explain the success of Apple and Samsung. They introduce the idea of classifying dynamic capabilities into reactive and proactive types, each of which can lead to success. The classification is enriched into a knowledge-based framework by applying the knowledge chain theory. The framework also accommodates concepts from other theories that are reviewed. This study makes contributions to understanding knowledge-based competitiveness: (1) the classification of dynamic capabilities into “proactive” and “reactive” gives a unified understanding of how both a pioneer and followers can succeed in a market; (2) the framework delves into mechanisms of how competitive advantage from the two kinds of dynamic capabilities is produced through the lens of the knowledge chain theory; (3) the framework can serve as an action guide in coping with turbulent business situations.
Project Risk Management Process for Professionals
Authors: Toth Tamas , Sebestyen Zoltan
Published: March 2018

This chapter will provide an instantly applicable integrated project risk analysis method, which tracks the probabilities of the occurrences of harmful events perceived by the owners from the conceptual phase to the end of the project. The chapter follows a threefold structure. First, the paper provides a revised integrated project risk assessment framework that enhances conventional risk category-based methods. Second, the minimum requirements of the owners are clarified to attain the main goal of project risk assessment and to identify the harmful events jeopardizing this goal. Third, the widely known risk assessment procedures are revised, and a methodology for taking and selecting proper risks is provided. Finally, a new valuation approach to the monitoring phase is introduced, which is able to capture the current market value of the project based on the risk management and controlling system's data.
Technique for Risk Identification of Software Acquisition and Information Technologies
Authors: Gasca-Hurtado Gloria Piedad , Arias Jaime Alberto Echeverri , Gómez María Clara
Published: March 2018

In this chapter, the authors present the automatization of a technique for identifying the risks that may affect software acquisition projects. The proposed technique can have an impact in two software acquisition areas: 1) acquisition software contract for: Fully Developed (FD) software, Modified-Off-The-Shelf (MOTS) software, and Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) software; and 2) information technology services contract, which can be a result of using the required technological tools for the operation of any organization. In both cases, it is indispensable to manage and address (track) the risks that may affect the success of any project type mentioned above.
Wearable Computers
Authors: Havard Byron , Podsiad Megan
Published: March 2018

Wearable computers include a variety of body-borne sensory, communication, and computational components that may be worn on the body, under, over, or within clothing. These mechanisms have potential benefits for (a) human performance support, (b) cognitive and psychomotor learning, and (c) K-12 educational environments. This chapter begins with a historical overview of wearable computers and then provides the reader with a current and future perspective of their use across a variety of educational environments.
Psychometric Assessment of Cardio-Respiratory Activity Using a Mobile Platform
Authors: Carbonaro Nicola , Cipresso Pietro , Tognetti Alessandro , Anania Gaetano , De Rossi Danilo , Pallavicini Federica , Gaggioli Andrea , Riva Giuseppe
Published: March 2018

It is increasingly recognized that stress has negative effects on growing numbers of people. Stress assessment is a complex issue, but different studies have shown that monitoring user psychophysiological parameter during daily life can be greatly helpful in stress evaluation. In this context, the European Collaborative Project INTERSTRESS is aimed at designing and developing advanced simulation and sensing technologies for the assessment and treatment of psychological stress, based on mobile biosensors.In this study a wearable biosensor platform able to collect physiological and behavioral parameters is reported. The developed mobile platform, in terms of hardware and processing algorithms, is described. Moreover the use of this wearable biosensor platform in combination with advanced simulation technologies, such as virtual reality, offer interesting opportunities for innovative personal health-care solutions to stress.