bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA-Regulated Gene Delivery Systems for Research and Therapeutic Purposes
Authors: Dhungel Bijay , Ramlogan-Steel Charmaine A. , Steel Jason C.
Published: June 2018

Targeted gene delivery relies on the ability to limit the expression of a transgene within a defined cell/tissue population. MicroRNAs represent a class of highly powerful and effective regulators of gene expression that act by binding to a specific sequence present in the corresponding messenger RNA. Involved in almost every aspect of cellular function, many miRNAs have been discovered with expression patterns specific to developmental stage, lineage, cell-type, or disease stage. Exploiting the binding sites of these miRNAs allows for construction of targeted gene delivery platforms with a diverse range of applications. Here, we summarize studies that have utilized miRNA-regulated systems to achieve targeted gene delivery for both research and therapeutic purposes. Additionally, we identify criteria that are important for the effectiveness of a particular miRNA for such applications and we also discuss factors that have to be taken into consideration when designing miRNA-regulated expression cassettes.
New Chromane-Based Derivatives as Inhibitors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Salicylate Synthase (MbtI): Preliminary Biological Evaluation and Molecular Modeling Studies
Authors: Pini Elena , Poli Giulio , Tuccinardi Tiziano , Chiarelli Laurent Roberto , Mori Matteo , Gelain Arianna , Costantino Luca , Villa Stefania , Meneghetti Fiorella , Barlocco Daniela
Published: June 2018

Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent worldwide; therefore, the need for new antitubercular drugs is desperate. The recently validated target salicylate synthase MbtI is the first enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of mycobactins, compounds able to chelate iron, an essential cofactor for the survival of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the host. Here, we report on the synthesis and biological evaluation of chromane-based compounds as new potential inhibitors of MbtI. Our approach successfully allowed the identification of a novel lead compound (1), endowed with a promising activity against this enzyme (IC50 = 55 μM). Molecular modeling studies were performed in order to evaluate the binding mode of 1 and rationalize the preliminary structure-activity relationships, thus providing crucial information to carry out further optimization studies.
Proanthocyanidins Protect Epithelial Cells from Zearalenone-Induced Apoptosis via Inhibition of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Induced Apoptosis Pathways in Mouse Small Intestines
Authors: Long Miao , Chen Xinliang , Wang Nan , Wang Mingyang , Pan Jiawen , Tong Jingjing , Li Peng , Yang Shuhua , He Jianbin
Published: June 2018

This study evaluated the protective effect of proanthocyanidins (PCs) on reducing apoptosis in the mouse intestinal epithelial cell model MODE-K exposed to zearalenone (ZEA) through inhibition of the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-induced apoptosis pathway. Our results showed that PCs could reduce the rate of apoptosis in MODE-K cells exposed to ZEA (p < 0.01). PCs significantly increased the ZEA-induced antioxidant protective effects on the enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and on the content of GSH. PCs also significantly decreased the ZEA-induced increase in the content of malondialdehyde (MDA). The analysis indicated that ZEA increased both mRNA and protein expression levels of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), GRP78, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase 12 (caspase-12) (p < 0.05), which are related to the ERS-induced apoptosis pathway. ZEA decreased levels of the pro-apoptotic related protein Bcl-2 (p < 0.05) and increased the anti-apoptotic related protein Bax (p < 0.05). Co-treatment with PCs was also shown to significantly reverse the expression levels of these proteins in MODE-K cells. The results demonstrated that PCs could protect MODE-K cells from oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by ZEA. The underlying mechanism may be that PCs can alleviate apoptosis in mouse intestinal epithelial cells by inhibition of the ERS-induced apoptosis pathway.
In Silico Docking and In Vitro Approaches towards BACE1 and Cholinesterases Inhibitory Effect of Citrus Flavanones
Authors: Lee Seungeun , Youn Kumju , Lim GyuTae , Lee Jinhyuk , Jun Mira
Published: June 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease, distinctively characterized by senile plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and synaptic loss, finally resulting in neuronal death. β-Site amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) and cholinesterases have been identified as therapeutic targets for AD, and the discovery of their inhibitors is of critical importance for developing preventive strategies for AD. To discover natural multi-target compounds possessing BACE1, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory properties, major citrus flavanones including hesperetin, naringenin, and hesperidin were evaluated. In vitro anti-AD activities were performed via BACE1 and cholinesterases inhibition assays, as well as enzyme kinetic predictions. For the design of potential inhibitors of AD-related enzymes, molecular docking analysis was performed. Based on the biological evaluation, hesperidin demonstrated the best inhibitory properties toward BACE1, AChE, and BChE, with IC50 values of 10.02 ± 1.12, 22.80 ± 2.78, and 48.09 ± 0.74 µM, respectively. Kinetic studies revealed that all tested compounds were found to be noncompetitive inhibitors against BACE1 and cholineseterases. In addition, molecular docking studies of these compounds demonstrated negative binding energies for BACE1, AChE, and BChE, indicating high affinity and tight binding capacity for the target enzymes. The present study suggested that the selected citrus flavanones could act together as multiple inhibitors of BACE1, AChE, and BChE, indicating preventive and therapeutic potential against AD.
Structure-Dependent Activity of Natural GABA(A) Receptor Modulators
Authors: Çiçek Serhat Sezai
Published: June 2018

GABA(A) receptors are ligand-gated ion channels consisting of five subunits from eight subfamilies, each assembled in four hydrophobic transmembrane domains. This pentameric structure not only allows different receptor binding sites, but also various types of ligands, such as orthosteric agonists and antagonists, positive and negative allosteric modulators, as well as second-order modulators and non-competitive channel blockers. A fact, that is also displayed by the variety of chemical structures found for both, synthetic as well as nature-derived GABA(A)-receptor modulators. This review covers the literature for natural GABA(A)-receptor modulators until the end of 2017 and discusses their structure-activity relationship.
A Novel Class of Cationic and Non-Peptidic Small Molecules as Hits for the Development of Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Jiménez Aranza , García Pablo , De la Puente Sofia , Madrona Andrés , Camarasa María , Pérez-Pérez María-Jesús , Quintela José-Carlos , García-del Portillo Francisco , San-Félix Ana
Published: June 2018

Cationic and non-peptide small molecules containing a total of six positive charges arranged on one side and a long aliphatic tail on the other have been synthesized and tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The positive charges have been contributed by two aminophenol residues. These molecules have showed remarkable antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria including multidrug-resistant strains. Our structure–activity relationship studies demonstrated the importance of the length and flexibility of the hydrophobic tail for the antimicrobial activity. Importantly, these compounds are non-toxic to eukaryotic cells at the concentration affecting growth in bacteria, reflecting an acceptable margin of safety. The small size and easy synthetic accessibility of our molecules can be of interest for the further development of novel antimicrobials against Gram-positive bacterial pathogens, including multidrug-resistant strains.
Metabolites and Biological Activities of Thymus zygis, Thymus pulegioides, and Thymus fragrantissimus Grown under Organic Cultivation
Authors: Afonso Andrea F. , Pereira Olívia R. , Válega Mónica , Silva Artur M. S. , Cardoso Susana M.
Published: June 2018

Thymus plants are marketed for diverse usages because of their pleasant odor, as well as high nutritional value and wealth of health-promoting phytochemicals. In this study, Thymuszygis, Thymuspulegioides, and Thymusfragrantissimus grown under organic cultivation regime were characterized regarding nutrients and phenolic compounds. In addition, the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of these species were screened. The plants were particularly notable for their high K/Na ratio, polyunsaturated fatty acids content and low omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids ratios, which are valuable features of a healthy diet. Caffeic acid and/or its derivatives, mainly rosmarinic acid and caffeoyl rosmarinic acid, represented the majority of the phenolic constituents of these plants, although they were less representative in T. pulegioides, which in turn was the richest in flavones. The latter species also exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity (DPPH● EC50 of 9.50 ± 1.98 μg/mL and reducing power EC50 of 30.73 ± 1.48 μg/mL), while T. zygis was the most active towards Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Overall, the results suggest that the three thyme plants grown in organic farming are endowed with valuable metabolites that give them high commercial value for applications in different industries.
An InGaN/GaN Superlattice to Enhance the Performance of Green LEDs: Exploring the Role of V-Pits
Authors: Liu Mengling , Zhao Jie , Zhou Shengjun , Gao Yilin , Hu Jinfeng , Liu Xingtong , Ding Xinghuo
Published: June 2018

Despite the fact that an InGaN/GaN superlattice (SL) is useful for enhancing the performance of a GaN-based light-emitting diode (LED), its role in improving the efficiency of green LEDs remains an open question. Here, we investigate the influence of a V-pits-embedded InGaN/GaN SL on optical and electrical properties of GaN-based green LEDs. We recorded a sequence of light emission properties of InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells (MQWs) grown on a 0- and 24-pair InGaN/GaN SL by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in combination with a room temperature cathodoluminescence (CL) measurement, which demonstrated the presence of a potential barrier formed by the V-pits around threading dislocations (TDs). We find that an increase in V-pit diameter would lead to the increase of V-pit potential barrier height. Our experimental data suggest that a V-pits-embedded, 24-pair InGaN/GaN SL can effectively suppress the lateral diffusion of carriers into non-recombination centers. As a result, the external quantum efficiency (EQE) of green LEDs is improved by 29.6% at an injection current of 20 mA after implementing the V-pits-embedded InGaN/GaN SL layer. In addition, a lower reverse leakage current was achieved with larger V-pits.
Relativistic Dissipative Fluid Dynamics from the Non-Equilibrium Statistical Operator
Authors: Harutyunyan Arus , Sedrakian Armen , Rischke Dirk
Published: June 2018

We present a new derivation of second-order relativistic dissipative fluid dynamics for quantum systems using Zubarev’s formalism for the non-equilibrium statistical operator. In particular, we discuss the shear-stress tensor to second order in gradients and argue that the relaxation terms for the dissipative quantities arise from memory effects contained in the statistical operator. We also identify new transport coefficients which describe the relaxation of dissipative processes to second order and express them in terms of equilibrium correlation functions, thus establishing Kubo-type formulae for the second-order transport coefficients.
Lanolin-Based Synthetic Membranes as Percutaneous Absorption Models for Transdermal Drug Delivery
Authors: Carrer Victor , Guzmán Beatriz , Martí Meritxell , Alonso Cristina , Coderch Luisa
Published: June 2018

Background: The major in vitro permeation studies are currently performed in Franz-type diffusion cells because of their simplicity, cost effectiveness and because the experimental conditions can be easily controlled. Apart from the skin, Franz-type diffusion cells can be used with synthetic membranes. Nevertheless, they do not emulate the nature of the lipidic matrix, which is responsible for the topical barrier function. Objective: This paper offers two new approaches combining different synthetic membranes (Strat-M® and Nucleopore®) with lanolin, which provides lipidic components similar to the lipidic matrix. Methods: The molecular structure of lanolin was studied in membranes by attenuated total reflectance infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR). The water permeability and absorption of lidocaine, diclofenac sodium and betamethasone dipropionate were also studied and compared against free-lanolin membranes and skin. Results: The results showed an increasing barrier function after lanolin application in both membranes, resulting in a decrease in water permeability. Observing the IR spectra, the lateral packaging of the lipid in the synthetic membranes seems to emulate the orthorhombic disposition from the stratum corneum. Moreover, the three substances applied to the lanolin-containing membranes have a similar absorption to that of the skin. Conclusions: In conclusion, combining synthetic membranes with lanolin may be a useful approach to mimic topical actives’ absorption.
An Overview of Non-Destructive Testing Methods for Integrated Circuit Packaging Inspection
Authors: Aryan Pouria , Sampath Santhakumar , Sohn Hoon
Published: June 2018

The article provides a review of the state-of-art non-destructive testing (NDT) methods used for evaluation of integrated circuit (IC) packaging. The review identifies various types of the defects and the capabilities of most common NDT methods employed for defect detection. The main aim of this paper is to provide a detailed review on the common NDT methods for IC packaging addressing their principles of operation, advantages, limitations and suggestions for improvement. The current methods such as, X-ray, scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM), infrared thermography (IRT), magnetic current imaging (MCI) and surface acoustic waves (SAW) are explicitly reviewed. The uniqueness of the paper lies in comprehensive comparison of the current NDT methods, recommendations for the improvements, and introduction of new candidate NDT technologies, which can be adopted for IC packaging.
An Effective Image Denoising Method for UAV Images via Improved Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Wang Ruihua , Xiao Xiongwu , Guo Bingxuan , Qin Qianqing , Chen Ruizhi
Published: June 2018

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are an inexpensive platform for collecting remote sensing images, but UAV images suffer from a content loss problem caused by noise. In order to solve the noise problem of UAV images, we propose a new methods to denoise UAV images. This paper introduces a novel deep neural network method based on generative adversarial learning to trace the mapping relationship between noisy and clean images. In our approach, perceptual reconstruction loss is used to establish a loss equation that continuously optimizes a min-max game theoretic model to obtain better UAV image denoising results. The generated denoised images by the proposed method enjoy clearer ground objects edges and more detailed textures of ground objects. In addition to the traditional comparison method, denoised UAV images and corresponding original clean UAV images were employed to perform image matching based on local features. At the same time, the classification experiment on the denoised images was also conducted to compare the denoising results of UAV images with others. The proposed method had achieved better results in these comparison experiments.
Multi-Object Tracking with Correlation Filter for Autonomous Vehicle
Authors: Zhao Dawei , Fu Hao , Xiao Liang , Wu Tao , Dai Bin
Published: June 2018

Multi-object tracking is a crucial problem for autonomous vehicle. Most state-of-the-art approaches adopt the tracking-by-detection strategy, which is a two-step procedure consisting of the detection module and the tracking module. In this paper, we improve both steps. We improve the detection module by incorporating the temporal information, which is beneficial for detecting small objects. For the tracking module, we propose a novel compressed deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) feature based Correlation Filter tracker. By carefully integrating these two modules, the proposed multi-object tracking approach has the ability of re-identification (ReID) once the tracked object gets lost. Extensive experiments were performed on the KITTI and MOT2015 tracking benchmarks. Results indicate that our approach outperforms most state-of-the-art tracking approaches.
Flash Smelting Copper Concentrates Spectral Emission Measurements
Authors: Arias Luis , Torres Sergio , Toro Carlos , Balladares Eduardo , Parra Roberto , Loeza Claudia , Villagrán Camilo , Coelho Pablo
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we report on spectral features emitted by a reaction shaft occurring in flash smelting of copper concentrates containing sulfide copper minerals such as chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), bornite (Cu5FeS4) and pyrite (FeS2). Different combustion conditions are addressed, such as sulfur-copper ratio and oxygen excess. Temperature and spectral emissivity features are estimated for each case by using the two wavelength method and radiometric models. The most relevant results have shown an increasing intensity behavior for higher sulfur-copper ratios and oxygen contents, where emissivity is almost constant along the visible spectrum range for all cases, which validates the gray body assumption. CuO and FeO emission line features along the visible spectrum appear to be a sensing alternative for describing the combustion reactions.
Recent Advances in Enhancement Strategies for Electrochemical ELISA-Based Immunoassays for Cancer Biomarker Detection
Authors: Arya Sunil K. , Estrela Pedro
Published: June 2018

Electrochemical enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based immunoassays for cancer biomarker detection have recently attracted much interest owing to their higher sensitivity, amplification of signal, ease of handling, potential for automation and combination with miniaturized analytical systems, low cost and comparative simplicity for mass production. Their developments have considerably improved the sensitivity required for detection of low concentrations of cancer biomarkers present in bodily fluids in the early stages of the disease. Recently, various attempts have been made in their development and several methods and processes have been described for their development, amplification strategies and testing. The present review mainly focuses on the development of ELISA-based electrochemical immunosensors that may be utilized for cancer diagnosis, prognosis and therapy monitoring. Various fabrication methods and signal enhancement strategies utilized during the last few years for the development of ELISA-based electrochemical immunosensors are described.
Land Cover Classification with GF-3 Polarimetric Synthetic Aperture Radar Data by Random Forest Classifier and Fast Super-Pixel Segmentation
Authors: Fang Yuyuan , Zhang Haiying , Mao Qin , Li Zhenfang
Published: June 2018

Chinese Gaofen-3 (GF-3), a vital satellite for high-resolution earth observation, was the first C-band polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (SAR) launched in China with a resolution of up to one meter. Polarimetric SAR can obtain the complete physical scattering mechanisms of targets, thereby having the potential to differentiate objects. In this paper, several classification methods are briefly summarized and the types of features that should be chosen during classification are discussed. A pre-classification step is introduced to reduce the workload of precise labeling. The Random Forest classifier, which performs well for many other classification tasks, is used for the initial land cover classification. Then, based on a polarimetric constant false-alarm rate (CFAR) edge detector, a fast super-pixel generation method for polarimetric SAR image is proposed, which does not require the adjustment of parameters in advance. Following that, majority vote is conducted on the initial classification result based on the super-pixels, so that the classification result can be optimized to better meet the mapping requirements. The experimental results based on GF-3 polarimetric SAR data verify the effectiveness of proposed procedure and demonstrate that GF-3 data has excellent performance in land cover classification.
Coupled Biological and Abiotic Mechanisms Driving Carbonyl Sulfide Production in Soils
Authors: Meredith Laura K. , Boye Kristin , Youngerman Connor , Whelan Mary , Ogée Jérôme , Sauze Joana , Wingate Lisa
Published: June 2018

Understanding soil production of the trace gas carbonyl sulfide (OCS) is key to its use as a tracer of ecosystem function. Underlying its application is the observation that vascular plants consume atmospheric OCS via their stomatal pores in proportion with CO2 photosynthesis and that soil fluxes of OCS are negligible in comparison. Recent soil-centered studies demonstrate that soils can produce OCS and contribute as much as a quarter of the atmospheric terrestrial flux. Despite the potential widespread importance of soil OCS emissions, insufficient data exist to predict variations in OCS production across ecosystems, and the chemical and biological drivers of OCS production are virtually unknown. In this study, we address this knowledge gap by investigating variables controlling OCS soil production including soil physical and chemical properties, microbial community composition, and sulfur speciation in two independent surveys. We found that soil OCS production was nearly ubiquitous across the 58 sites, increased exponentially with temperature, and was insensitive to visible light conditioning. Soil pH, N, and C/N were predictors of OCS soil production rates in both soil surveys. Patterns in soil S speciation and predicted microbial S-cycling pathways both pointed to S-containing amino acids such as cysteine and methionine and their derivatives as potential precursors for OCS production. Elevated sulfate levels were associated with OCS production in some soils. This study provides new mechanistic insight into OCS production in soils and presents strategies to represent soil OCS fluxes that facilitate the use of OCS as a tracer for leaf-level processes related to carbon and water cycling.
Does Access Trump Ownership? Exploring Consumer Acceptance of Access-Based Consumption in the Case of Smartphones
Authors: Poppelaars Flora , Bakker Conny , Van Engelen Jo
Published: June 2018

Value creation in a circular economy is based on products being returned after use. In the case of smartphones, most are never returned and tend to be kept in drawers. Smartphone access services (e.g., leasing or upgrade) have been experimented with in the Netherlands but have been largely unsuccessful. This study explores the reasons why consumers rejected these access-based smartphone services and is one of the very few to address this topic. The findings are compared with the case of car access services, which are socially better accepted, to identify potential areas for improvement. The qualitative study consists of in-depth interviews with consumers (n = 18) who either adopted and used a smartphone or car access service, or had considered a new smartphone or car but did not choose access-based consumption. The findings of this small-scale study suggest that the main reasons for the rejection of smartphone access services are a lack of awareness, misunderstanding of terms and conditions, and unsatisfactory compensation for their sacrifice of not owning. Smartphone access providers could thus clearly communicate customers’ rights and responsibilities, offer an excellent service experience (especially during repair) by taking over the burdens of ownership, and stimulate the societal logic shift from ownership to access.
Is Aging the Important Factor for Sustainable Agricultural Development in Korea? Evidence from the Relationship between Aging and Farm Technical Efficiency
Authors: Seok Jun Ho , Moon Hanpil , Kim GwanSeon , Reed Michael R.
Published: June 2018

This paper examines the effects of aging and income subsidies on farm efficiency in Korea by utilizing the Korean Farm Household Economic Survey from 2008 to 2015. A stochastic frontier model with a non-monotonic assumption on the effect of efficiency factors is implemented to reflect a super aging and less developed production structure in Korean agriculture. This study finds continuously decreasing farm efficiency with age, which contradicts the commonly assumed inverted-U relationship between age and productivity. Especially, we find that labor is the most important factor to explain recent farm efficiency losses in Korea. Furthermore, this paper finds that the Korean income subsidy has a negative effect on farm efficiency. Our results provide two policy implications for the government of Korea. First, even though the “Returns to the Farm and Rural program” is appropriate, Korea should modify the program to encourage more young people to participate this program rather than old people, in order to attain the sustainable development of the agricultural sector. Second, a policy maker in Korea should consider a coupled subsidy that is directly related to farm production rather than a decoupled subsidy, regardless of the lower efficiency of the coupled subsidy in achieving agricultural development.
Neglected and Emerging Tropical Diseases in South and Southeast Asia and Northern Australia
Authors: Leggat Peter A. , Graves Patricia , Laha Thewarach , Aye Khin Saw
Published: June 2018

n/a
From Incriminating Stegomyia fasciata to Releasing Wolbachia pipientis: Australian Research on the Dengue Virus Vector, Aedes aegypti, and Development of Novel Strategies for Its Surveillance and Control
Authors: Van den Hurk Andrew F.
Published: June 2018

Globally, the dengue viruses (DENVs) infect approximately 300 million people annually. Australia has a history of epidemic dengue, with outbreaks in the early decades of the twentieth century responsible for tens of thousands of cases. Seminal experiments conducted by Australian scientists during these outbreaks were the first to incriminate Aedes aegypti as a major vector of dengue viruses. One hundred years later, Australian scientists are playing a lead role in the development of surveillance and suppression strategies that target this mosquito species. Surveillance of Ae. aegypti populations and their associated dengue risk was greatly improved by understanding the contribution of key premises, key containers, and cryptic larval habitats to mosquito productivity, and, more recently, the development of novel adult traps. In terms of mosquito control, targeted indoor residual pyrethroid spraying and community-based biological control utilizing predatory copepods can significantly reduce Ae. aegypti populations. The release of Ae. aegypti transinfected with the virus-blocking bacterium, Wolbachia, provides a promising strategy for limiting DENV transmission. These diverse strategies developed by Australian scientists have the potential to alleviate the burden of dengue in the future, whether it is at the local level or as part of a country-wide program.
Prioritization of Local Indicators for the Development of an Age-Friendly City: A Community Perspective
Authors: Zaman Atiq Uz , Thornton Katharine
Published: June 2018

Due to the rapid transition of growing ageing populations around the world, there is an urgency to change in attitudes, policies and practices at all levels of governance to fulfil the potential of ageing in the 21st century. The World Health Organization (WHO) proposed an age-friendly checklist as a guideline for urban cities. However, the WHO’s age-friendly indicators are generalized and overarching, and need modification by considering local needs. Therefore, localizing age-friendly indicators based on local priority is the first step in implementing a global age-friendly city agenda. This study aims to identify the priority indicators for age-friendly development at local government level in South Australia. The study considers the City of Unley, a local government organization in South Australia, as a case study. The study conducts a community perception survey to identify the important indicators, followed by a focus group consultation to identify the priority indicators based on local settings. The study identifies 25 indicators as priority indicators for the City of Unley that need to be considered for the development of age-friendly Unley. In addition, the study proposes several demonstration project ideas for local government to initiate participatory age-friendly projects for the local community. The findings of the study are important in assisting local government to develop age-friendly strategies by considering their local priority and achieving the global sustainability agenda.
Developing an Intelligent PostGIS Database to Support Accessibility Tools for Urban Pedestrians
Authors: Sinkonde Daniel , Mselle Leonard , Shidende Nima , Comai Sara , Matteucci Matteo
Published: June 2018

People with mobility impairment must travel through cities with extra care. An intelligent database of Maps for Easy Paths (MEP) project for storing and retrieving accessibility information about a particular path by using PostGIS may enable the public to enjoy the privilege of the technology that alleviates the problem of city accessibility through the Web or, more recently, through smartphones/tablet applications. The methods and techniques for intelligent database to storeand retrieve accessibility information by using a relational intelligent PostGIS database are described. The conceptual data model is designed for an intelligent database (PostGIS). Users will be able to actively participate in the process of taking pictures of obstacles, uploading them to the MEP server and giving some comments on the attributes of the picture of the barrier. The resulting data will help others to locate and evaluate paths. This paper presents the conceptual data model design as well as a review of features of the data of the existing systems. Therefore, the novelty of this approach lies in developing an intelligent database for the enrichment of geographical maps with information about the accessibility of urban pedestrian areas for people with mobility problems.
Application of Driverless Electric Automated Shuttles for Public Transport in Villages: The Case of Appelscha
Authors: Boersma Reanne , Van Arem Bart , Rieck Frank
Published: June 2018

This paper reports on the application of electric automated vehicles in the city of Appelscha, The Netherlands. Appelscha is challenged with a predicted decline of inhabitants and an already shrinking public transport network. To preserve the region’s accessibility, the municipality started a pilot with electric automated vehicles. These vehicles drove on a separate cycle lane for six weeks in 2016. This pilot has shown that a pilot is possible, with little infrastructural changes. Even though the maximum speed of 15 km/h might suggest that automated vehicles are suitable to share the road with cyclists, the cycle lane in Appelscha was not sufficient due to the width of the cycle lane. No accidents occurred during the pilot.
Online Multi Chemistry SoC Estimation Technique Using Data Driven Battery Model Parameter Estimation
Authors: De Sutter Lysander , Nikolian Alexandros , Timmermans Jean-Marc , Omar Noshin , Van Mierlo Joeri
Published: June 2018

Kalman filters have shown to be a very accurate and robust method for State of Charge estimation. However, their performance depends heavily on the accuracy of the used battery model and its parameters. These battery model parameters have shown to vary with the State of Health, cell chemistry, temperature and load current. This paper studies a data driven battery model parameter estimation technique based on the recursive least squares method as an alternative to extensively characterizing every cell of interest with time-consuming test procedures. The performance of two commonly used electrical models is compared and extensively validated on three different cell chemistries (Nickel Cobalt Manganese, Lithium Iron Phosphate and Lithium Titanate Oxide), under load conditions of varying dynamic nature representative for electric vehicle (EV) applications, using a Dynamic Discharge Pulse Test (DDPT) and the Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP). The developed model is able to identify and update battery model parameters online, for three different chemistries, potentially reducing offline characterization efforts and allowing monitoring of battery electrical behavior and state estimation over its entire lifetime.
Estimating the Charging Profile of Individual Charge Sessions of Electric Vehicles in The Netherlands
Authors: Mies Jerome , Helmus Jurjen , Van den Hoed Robert
Published: June 2018

The mass adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) might raise pressure on the power system, especially during peak hours. Therefore, there is a need for delayed charging. However, to optimize the charging system, the progression of charging from an empty battery to a full battery of the EVs, based on real-world data, needs to be analyzed. Currently, many researchers view this charging profile as a static load and ignore the actual charging behavior during the charging session. However, this study investigates how different factors influence the charging profile of individual EVs based on real-world data of charging sessions in The Netherlands, and thereby enable optimization analysis of EV smart charging schemes.
Hepatic Gene Expression During the Perinatal Transition in the Rat
Authors: Hurley Edward , Zabala Valerie , Boylan Joan M. , Gruppuso Philip A. , Sanders Jennifer A.
Published: June 2018

During the immediate postnatal (PN) period, the liver, with its role in energy metabolism and macromolecule synthesis, plays a central role in the perinatal transition. Using RNA microarrays and several complementary computational analyses, we characterized changes in hepatic gene expression
in the rat across a developmental period starting with the late gestation fetus (embryonic day 21), and including 30 min PN, 4 h PN, 12 h PN, 1 day PN, and 1 week after birth. Following subtle changes in gene expression at the earliest PN time point, there were marked changes that occurred
between 4 and 12 h after birth. These reflected changes in multiple metabolic pathways, with expression of enzymes involved in glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis showing the greatest change. Over 50% of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes changed in the first 7 days of PN life, with 25%
changing within the first 24 h. We also observed changes coinciding with a transient period of synchronous hepatocyte proliferation that we had observed previously, which occurs during the first PN week. Analysis for upstream regulators of gene expression indicated multiple initiating factors,
including cell stress, hormones, and cytokines. Also implicated were multiple canonical transcription factor networks. We conclude that changes in gene expression during the early phases of the perinatal transition involve a complex, choreographed network of signaling pathways that respond
to a variety of environmental stimuli. This transcriptomic response during the immediate PN period reflects a complex metabolic adaptive response that incorporates a panoply of signaling pathways and transcriptional regulators.
Synchrotron Polarization Radiative Transfer: Relativistic Thermal Electron Contribution
Authors: Mao Jirong , Covino Stefano , Wang Jiancheng
Published: June 2018

Relativistic thermal electrons moving in a large-scale magnetic field can produce synchrotron radiation. Linear synchrotron polarization can also be produced by the relativistic thermal electrons. In this paper, we utilize a hybrid thermal–nonthermal electron energy distribution to calculate circular synchrotron polarization. We further compute the radiative transfer of the synchrotron polarization in the optical and radio bands when we consider the contribution of the thermal electrons. We attempt to apply the polarization results to some astrophysical objects, such as kilonova like AT 2017gfo/GW170817, the fast radio burst (FRB), the gamma-ray burst afterglow, and the supernova remnant. The large optical depth of radiative transfer affects the small polarization degrees of these populations when the media surrounding the synchrotron sources take heavy absorption to the polarized photons. We need a strong magnetic field in our model to reproduce the linear and circular polarization properties that were observed in FRB 140514. This indicates that FRBs have a neutron star origin.
Time-dependent Pattern Speeds in Barred Galaxies
Authors: Wu Yu-Ting , Pfenniger Daniel , Taam Ronald E.
Published: June 2018

Based on a high-quality N-body simulation of a double-bar galaxy model, we investigate the evolution of the bar properties, including their size, strength, and instantaneous pattern speed derived by using three distinct methods: the Fourier, Jacobi integral, and moment of inertia methods. The interaction of the two bars, which rotate at distinct speeds, primarily affects the size, strength, and pattern speed of the inner bar. When the two bars are perpendicular to each other, the size and the pattern speed of the inner bar decrease and its strength increases. The emergence of a strong Fourier m = 1 mode increases the oscillation amplitude of the size, strength, and pattern speed of the inner bar. On the other hand, the characteristics of the outer bar are substantially influenced by its adjacent spiral structure. When the spiral structure disappears, the size of the outer bar increases and its strength and pattern speed decrease. Consequently, the ratio of the pattern speed of the outer bar with respect to the inner bar is not constant and increases with time. Overall, the double-bar and disk system displays substantial high-frequency semichaotic fluctuations of the pattern strengths and speeds in both space and time, superposed on the slow secular evolution, which invalidates the assumption that the actions of individual stars should be well conserved in barred galaxies, such as the Milky Way.
Description of four new species of Eadya (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), parasitoids of the Eucalyptus Tortoise Beetle (Paropsis charybdis) and other Eucalyptus defoliating leaf beetles
Authors: Ridenbaugh Ryan D. , Barbeau Erin , Sharanowski Barbara J.
Published: June 2018

EucalyptusL’Héritier, 1789 (Myrtales: Myrtaceae) plantations are a global economic resource with a wide array of uses. As this forestry crop grows in popularity around the world, the exotic introduction of pests such as the leaf beetles belonging to the generaParopsisOliver, 1807 andParopsisternaMotschulsky, 1860 increases in frequency. These pest introductions have spurred a need to understand the natural enemies of these pests for use in classical biological control programs. One such enemy,EadyaparopsidisHuddleston & Short, 1978 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), has shown potential as a biological control agent againstParopsischarybdis, an exotic pest of New ZealandEucalyptusplantations. However, observations made by biocontrol researchers have raised concerns thatE.paropsidisis a complex of cryptic species. A comprehensive large-scale phylogenetic study utilizing both host and molecular data (Peixoto et al. 2018), as well as a morphological multivariate ratio analysis, was utilized to ensure accurate delimitation of the species ofEadya. Here we formally describe the three new species (EadyaannleckieaeRidenbaugh, 2018,sp. n.,EadyadaenerysRidenbaugh, 2018,sp. n.,EadyaspitzerRidenbaugh, 2018,sp. n.), and one additional new species discovered in the Australian National Insect Collection (EadyaduncanRidenbaugh, 2018,sp. n.). All distributions and host associations forEadyaare listed as well as a redescription of the originally describedE.paropsidisandE.falcata. An illustrated key to all known species is included to assist biological control researchers. The value of citizen science observations is discussed, along with the need for a further understanding of mainlandEadyapopulations given the recent spread of paropsine pests. Finally, we discuss the subfamilial placement ofEadya, and suggest it belongs within Euphorinae based on morphological characters.
Perceptions of post-multicurrency regime financial inclusion confidence challenges in Zimbabwe
Authors: Ngwenya Bongani , Pelser Theuns , Chivaura Talent
Published: June 2018

Aim: The study sought to assess the informal trader’s perceptions of the post-multicurrency regime financial inclusion confidence challenges in Zimbabwe and also through further future studies explore the potential of explicating a framework for achieving optimal financial inclusion in an economy recovering from a recession through further future studies. Setting: A non-probability judgment sample of 1000 informal traders in the Avondale area of Harare was used in this study. Method: The study established four potential financial inclusion construct pillars: demand side factors, supply side factors, behavioural factors and individual factors; these were largely influenced by age, which can be investigated in further future grounded theory studies to develop a framework. Results: The results indicate that healing from the financial experiences of the hyperinflation era of 2008 still has not been achieved. The study suggests a need for Zimbabwe to restore human rights, political stability, and ensure compliance with the Financial Action Task Force regulations regarding money laundering and terror financing in order to boost external confidence in the financial system of the country. Conclusion: There is still a challenge of confidence in the country’s financial system. The proposed framework is envisaged to minimise the negative impacts of the mistrust of formal financial service providers and boost confidence in the financial system. It is hoped that the findings will aid government to craft policies that will be perceived as supportive of the informal sector to achieve optimal financial inclusion. The study further suggests penetration of the rural areas through technological advances such as mobile networks.
An exploratory study of the effect of country-by-country reporting ambiguities on Johannesburg Stock Exchange-listed companies
Authors: Thiart Cara , Nel George F.
Published: June 2018

Background: South Africa issued regulations implementing country-by-country (CbC) reporting standards for multinational enterprises (MNEs) on 23 December 2016. Country-by-country reporting will be applicable to all MNEs with a group revenue in excess of R10 billion. Aim: The aim of the study was twofold: to identify ambiguities that might influence the filing obligation and subsequent scope of CbC reporting in South Africa and to quantitatively measure the potential impact of any identified ambiguities. Setting: This study used data from Johannesburg Stock Exchange-listed companies. Methods: The study commences with a review of the relevant regulations and other applicable literature and continues with a quantitative analysis exploring alternative interpretations deduced from this review. Results: The review identified conflicting interpretations of how companies can be categorised as an MNE Group or not, as well as in measuring the revenue threshold. An analysis of the group structures and annual reports of a selected sample of 78 companies showed that the scope of CbC reporting will depend on the definitions applied to an MNE Group and revenue. Conclusion: Further guidance is needed to determine whether non-controlling entities must be considered as Constituent Entities, as well as how to measure revenue (i.e. whether only the International Financial Reporting Standards [IFRS] 15 revenue line item should be used or whether other income should also be included).
The poetics of peace: From aesthetic knowledge to reconciliation
Authors: Velthuizen Andreas G. , Ferguson Kate D.
Published: June 2018

This article is inspired by the need for research methods that would discover the interrelationships of reconciliation and culture, specifically analysing the behaviour of field researchers originating from different lifestyles or culture, observing and participating in the artful expressions of research subjects. The purpose of this article was to present an overview of research into poetics as a source of information that contributes to existing bodies of knowledge and the finding of practical solutions related to peace-building in African communities. The authors argued that knowledge could be discovered from various forms of poetics through sensuous participation and intellectual interpretation and could be applied to the process of reconciliation. In support of this argument, the research was conducted with the San, the First People of southern Africa, in the context of a broader research project that aims at finding and publishing theory for dispute resolution in Africa. The discussion contains a conceptual framework of philosophy and theories that elucidates the concepts of poetics, the aesthetic domain and its relevance to peace and reconciliation in Africa. The transdisciplinary research methodology borrows from ethnographic methodologies including sensuous scholarship and participant observation of ritualistic experiences. The authors conclude that the creative, ritualistic and artistic lifeworlds of communities, in or recovering from conflict situations, are deeply relevant to any real motion towards reconciliation and healing.
Stable isotope measurements confirm volatile organic compound oxidation as a
major urban summertime source of carbon monoxide in Indianapolis, USA
Authors: Vimont Isaac J. , Turnbull Jocelyn C. , Petrenko Vasilii V. , Place Philip F. , Sweeney Colm , Miles Natasha , Richardson Scott , Vaughn Bruce H. , White James W. C.
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Atmospheric carbon monoxide (CO) is a regulated pollutant in urban centers. Oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has been hypothesized to contribute substantially to the summertime urban CO budget. We performed measurements of CO stable isotopes on air samples from three sites in and around Indianapolis, USA over three summers to investigate the VOC contribution to urban CO. One of the sites is located upwind of the city, allowing us to quantitatively remove the background air signal and isolate the urban CO enhancements. The distinct isotopic signatures of CO produced from fossil fuel combustion and VOC oxidation allow us to separate contributions from these two sources. Our results provide the strongest empirical evidence to date of large contributions from VOC oxidation to the urban summertime CO source and show that this contribution varies in time and location between 0 and 58 %. We attribute the remainder of the Indianapolis summertime CO budget to fossil fuel combustion. We assess the reactivities of different VOCs and determine that biogenic sources are likely responsible for the majority of CO produced by VOC oxidation reactions within Indianapolis.