bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mandatory Financial Reporting and Voluntary Disclosure: The Effect of Mandatory IFRS Adoption on Management Forecasts
Authors: Li Xi , Yang Holly I.
Published: September 2015

This study examines the effect of the mandatory adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) on voluntary disclosure. Using a difference-in-differences analysis, we document a significant increase in the likelihood and frequency of management earnings forecasts following mandatory IFRS adoption, consistent with the notion that IFRS adoption alters firms' disclosure incentives in response to increased capital-market demand. We find the increase to be larger among firms domiciled in code-law countries, suggesting a catching-up effect among firms facing low disclosure incentives pre-adoption. We then propose and test three channels through which IFRS adoption could alter firms' disclosure incentives: improved earnings quality, increased shareholder demand, and increased analyst demand. We find evidence consistent with all three channels.
Audit Market Concentration, Audit Fees, and Audit Quality: Evidence from China
Authors: Huang Ting-Chiao , Chang Hsihui , Chiou Jeng-Ren
Published: September 2015

We investigate the effects of audit market concentration on audit fees and audit quality in China, where competition is intense and the legal environment is relatively weak compared with developed countries. Analyzing 12,334 firm-year observations for the period 2001 to 2011, we find a significant positive relation between concentration and audit fees. Path analysis shows that concentration improves client earnings quality and reduces the need for auditors to issue modified audit opinions through increased audit fees. Additional analysis indicates that the increased audit fees and client earnings quality resulting from increased concentration are associated with a lower likelihood of executives and auditors being sanctioned by regulators for audit failures. Together, our results suggest that concentration improves audit quality indirectly through increased audit fees and this positive indirect effect offsets the negative direct effect of concentration on audit quality. By separating the direct and the indirect effect of concentration on audit quality, our study would explain why previous studies that do not have a separation document mixed evidence. Our findings inform regulators that actions taken to eliminate the indirect effect of concentration, for example restricting the upper bound of audit fees, could produce unintended outcomes such as decreased audit quality.
A Method to Evaluate Information Systems Control Alignment
Authors: Cram W. Alec , Gallupe R. Brent
Published: September 2015

Advocated by auditors and regulators, information systems (IS) controls can mitigate risk and improve performance. But controls can just as easily lead to problems, slowing processes with unnecessary bureaucracy or overwhelming checks and balances. Managers can avoid these problems by understanding how to design and implement IS controls that align with important factors within the settings that they operate, such as organizational structure, staff expectations, and technical innovations. We address this challenge by operationalizing a method to evaluate control alignment within IS processes. The results can aid in determining the degree of complementarity between IS controls, organizational, staff, and process characteristics.
Laterality of Tickle Sensation Produced by Self-Stimulation,
Authors: Suzuki Mayo , Yamashita Hikari
Published: September 2015

Numerous authors have reported that people cannot create a tickling reaction in themselves. However, Provine (2000) claimed that ticklishness was felt even if he stimulated his own leg with his fingers. Ticklishness was stronger when the hand and leg were on opposite sides of the body. Provine's findings were replicated with 30 university students. Two types of stimulus presentation methods were adopted: a participant's fingers and a paintbrush. Ticklishness was assessed by self-rating and evaluation by observers. Provine's claim was supported only by the self-rating of stimulation with the fingers.
Factors in HIV Prevention
Authors: Karki Tej Bahadur
Published: September 2015

Objectives: The main objective of this study is to identify the factors in HIV prevention.Methodology: A descriptive and analytical research design was adopted among 404 respondents. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the respondents from different groups. The Study was conducted in Kathmandu valley.Result: A significant association exists between the awareness raising activities, mandatory blood testing of suspected people, isolating PLHIV from society, addressing the problem of unemployment, improving individual risk behaviour, managing separate red-light area, and stopping stigma and discrimination with HIV risk reduction.Conclusion: Individual people should be more responsible for improving their risk behaviour. Besides that, the society should be amenable to reduce the social taboo about HIV and AIDS and the government should address the problem of unemployment and manage the sex-trade.Journal of Advanced Academic Research Vol.1(1) 2014: 1-8
Diabetes Prevention in Nepal: Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude of the 40+ Patients
Authors: Sharma Saraswati
Published: September 2015

Introduction: Diabetes was once thought to be a problem exclusively of developed countries and the wealthy. Now diabetes has imposed a heavy burden on both the developed and developing countries. Urbanization, with the adoption of “western lifestyles”, has been identified as the main reason.The objective of this study is to explore demographic details of diabetes patients and assess the knowledge and attitude regarding preventive measures on diabetes mellitus among the people above 40 years old in Nepal.Method: Descriptive cross-sectional study involving 100 people measure was used to carry out this research.Result: About 20.54% of the respondents responded that sedentary life style is the main cause of diabetes, 18.98% pointed out frequent urination as the major symptom. 84% responded that diabetes could be prevented. 19.04 % considered diet control could help in the treatment of diabetes. 100% respondent responded that smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided while 18.98% took kidney disease and eye problem as the major complications of diabetes. Majority of the respondents (88%) responded that exercise could help in the control and prevention of diabetes.Conclusion: The risk of diabetes continued to increase worldwide due to population growth, aging, urbanization and increasing prevalence of physical inactivity and obesity. Most of the studies have proved that the number will increase more in developing countries due to rapid urbanization, dietary pattern and sedentary life.Journal of Advanced Academic Research Vol.1(1) 2014: 46-52
General image of tourist destination of Nepal from tourist perspective
Authors: Gurung Amrit Kumar
Published: September 2015

Background and objective: Tourists are the people who visit new places to observe the places, natural beauty, cultural-environment, and many more rituals. The study was conducted to explore the general image of tourist destination of Nepal from the tourist perspective.Methodology: The study was conducted in the tourist destination of Kathmandu valley when tourists of different countries were randomly selected. The study was based on the descriptive research design. Structured questionnaires were developed using Likert’s scale.Result: There was no significant association found between the perceptions of tourists in tourist destination of Nepal. Around 38% had neutral answer about the availability of tourist police in tourist destination as well as more than 45% had neutral answer about the effectiveness of tourist police in promoting safe tourism.Conclusion: Natural beauty of tourist destination should be safe and the environment should be cleaned. There is a necessity to increase the numbers of tourist police for the promotion of safe tourism.Journal of Advanced Academic Research Vol.1(1) 2014: 58-67
Quand la rationalité des gestionnaires publics sauve l’organisation
Authors: Maclouf Étienne , De Fabrègues Muriel
Published: September 2015

La modernisation sollicite les gestionnaires publics pour engager des apprentissages collectifs. Au ministère de la Justice, nos observations montrent que les centres de services partagés (CSP) sont pris en charge comme un changement rationnel, planifié. Cependant, les variables sont interdépendantes, et la cible impossible à définir. Notre recherche souligne la nécessité de clarifier ce qu’on attend des gestionnaires publics : assumer l’incertitude de changements émergents, au risque de n’apporter aucune amélioration, ou au contraire compter sur leur bon sens et bloquer les projets de modernisation si nécessaire.
Traduction d’un outil de contrôle de gestion dans le secteur public
Authors: Perray-Redslob Ludivine , Malaurent Julien
Published: September 2015

Cet article étudie le cas de la traduction du Balanced Scorecard (BSC) dans l’armée de terre française sous le prisme de la théorie de l’acteur réseau. Cette étude montre que cette traduction a été chaotique, et a nécessité de nombreux retours aux phases initiales de problématisation et d’enrôlement. Elle a été facilitée dès lors que l’outil, au-delà de ses fonctions premières, est devenu un véhicule de l’identité de l’organisation. Par ailleurs, cette traduction n’est pas le résultat des actions d’un seul homme, mais celui d’un processus intrinsèquement social reposant sur la collaboration et l’affrontement de différents acteurs humains et non humains.
Paclitaxel and trastuzumab treatment affects insulin growth factor I expression in breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Qian Yu-Xian , Yu Rui , Qin Shi-Rong
Published: September 2015

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancers and second primary cause of death among women. Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-1) signaling pathway plays a vital role in cancer cell survival, proliferation, chemotaxis and angiogenesis. In this study, the effect of combination of two drugs, paclitaxel and trastuzumab on IGF signaling and cell cycle arrest in breast cancer cell lines, T47D and Hs0578T were explored. The interaction of paclitaxel and trastuzumab on IGF-1 signaling pathway was studied with IGF-1 and phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitor, LY294002. The protein expression of IGF signaling molecules were reduced in the drug treated cancer cells. LY294002 and IGF-1 with paclitaxel and trastuzumab treatment inhibited phosphorylated Akt. During G0/G1 phase, cell cycle arrest and accumulation of apoptotic cells were observed in drug treated cancer cells. The synergistic effect of paclitaxel and trastuzumab decreased the multiplication of breast cancer cells by altering the expression of IGF-I signaling molecules. This combination proves to be one of the useful methods to treat breast cancer.

 
CFD Study of an Annular-Ducted Fan Lift System for VTOL Aircraft
Authors: Jiang Yun , Zhang Bo , Huang Tao
Published: September 2015

The present study aimed at assessing a novel annular-ducted fan lift system for VTOL aircraft through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The power and lift efficiency of the lift fan system in hover mode, the lift and drag in transition mode, the drag and flight speed of the aircraft in cruise mode and the pneumatic coupling of the tip turbine and jet exhaust were studied. The results show that the annular-ducted fan lift system can have higher lift efficiency compared to the rotor of the Apache helicopter; the smooth transition from vertical takeoff to cruise flight needs some extra forward thrust to overcome a low peak of drag; the aircraft with the lift fan system enclosed during cruise flight theoretically may fly faster than helicopters and tiltrotors based on aerodynamic drag prediction, due to the elimination of rotor drag and compressibility effects on the rotor blade tips; and pneumatic coupling of the tip turbine and jet exhaust of a 300 m/s velocity can provide enough moment to spin the lift fan. The CFD results provide insight for future experimental study of the annular-ducted lift fan VTOL aircraft.
Hemodynamic and Light-Scattering Changes of Rat Spinal Cord and Primary Somatosensory Cortex in Response to Innocuous and Noxious Stimuli
Authors: He Ji-Wei , Liu Hanli , Peng Yuan
Published: September 2015

Neuroimaging technologies with an exceptional spatial resolution and noninvasiveness have become a powerful tool for assessing neural activity in both animals and humans. However, the effectiveness of neuroimaging for pain remains unclear partly because the neurovascular coupling during pain processing is not completely characterized. Our current work aims to unravel patterns of neurovascular parameters in pain processing. A novel fiber-optic method was used to acquire absolute values of regional oxy- (HbO) and deoxy-hemoglobin concentrations, oxygen saturation rates (SO2), and the light-scattering coefficients from the spinal cord and primary somatosensory cortex (SI) in 10 rats. Brief mechanical and electrical stimuli (ranging from innocuous to noxious intensities) as well as a long-lasting noxious stimulus (formalin injection) were applied to the hindlimb under pentobarbital anesthesia. Interhemispheric comparisons in the spinal cord and SI were used to confirm functional activation during sensory processing. We found that all neurovascular parameters showed stimulation-induced changes; however, patterns of changes varied with regions and stimuli. Particularly, transient increases in HbO and SO2 were more reliably attributed to brief stimuli, whereas a sustained decrease in SO2 was more reliably attributed to formalin. Only the ipsilateral SI showed delayed responses to brief stimuli. In conclusion, innocuous and noxious stimuli induced significant neurovascular responses at critical centers (e.g., the spinal cord and SI) along the somatosensory pathway; however, there was no single response pattern (as measured by amplitude, duration, lateralization, decrease or increase) that was able to consistently differentiate noxious stimuli. Our results strongly suggested that the neurovascular response patterns differ between brief and long-lasting noxious stimuli, and can also differ between the spinal cord and SI. Therefore, a use of multiple-parameter strategy tailored by stimulus modality (brief or long-lasting) as well as region-dependent characteristics may be more effective in detecting pain using neuroimaging technologies.
A Switched Capacitor Based AC/DC Resonant Converter for High Frequency AC Power Generation
Authors: Xu Cuidong , Cheng Ka
Published: September 2015

A switched capacitor based AC-DC resonant power converter is proposed for high frequency power generation output conversion. This converter is suitable for small scale, high frequency wind power generation. It has a high conversion ratio to provide a step down from high voltage to low voltage for easy use. The voltage conversion ratio of conventional switched capacitor power converters is fixed to n, 1/n or −1/n (n is the switched capacitor cell). In this paper, A circuit which can provide n, 1/n and 2n/m of the voltage conversion ratio is presented (n is stepping up the switched capacitor cell, m is stepping down the switching capacitor cell). The conversion ratio can be changed greatly by using only two switches. A resonant tank is used to assist in zero current switching, and hence the current spike, which usually exists in a classical switching switched capacitor converter, can be eliminated. Both easy operation and efficiency are possible. Principles of operation, computer simulations and experimental results of the proposed circuit are presented. General analysis and design methods are given. The experimental result verifies the theoretical analysis of high frequency AC power generation.
Effect of Various Excitation Conditions on Vibrational Energy in a Multi-Degree-of-Freedom Torsional System with Piecewise-Type Nonlinearities
Authors: Yoon Jong-Yun , Kim Byeongil
Published: September 2015

Dynamic behaviors in practical driveline systems for wind turbines or vehicles are inherently affected by multiple nonlinearities such as piecewise-type torsional springs. However, various excitation conditions with different levels of magnitudes also show strong relationships to the dynamic behaviors when system responses are examined in both frequency and time domains. This study investigated the nonlinear responses of torsional systems under various excitations by using the harmonic balance method and numerical analysis. In order to understand the effect of piecewise-type nonlinearities on vibrational energy with different excitations, the nonlinear responses were investigated with various comparisons. First, two different jumping phenomena with frequency up- and down-sweeping conditions were determined under severe excitation levels. Second, practical system analysis using the phase plane and Poincaré map was conducted in various ways. When the system responses were composed of quasi-periodic components, Poincaré map analysis clearly revealed the nonlinear dynamic characteristics and thus it is suggested to investigate complicated nonlinear dynamic responses in practical driveline systems.
Meat Composition and Quality Assessment of King Scallops (Pecten maximus) and Frozen Atlantic Sea Scallops (Placopecten magellanicus) on a Retail Level
Authors: Manthey-Karl Monika , Lehmann Ines , Ostermeyer Ute , Rehbein Hartmut , Schröder Ute
Published: September 2015

An enlarged range of scallop products on the market allows the consumer to buy lower priced alternatives, which often raises the question of quality and control. Frozen meat of king scallops (Pecten maximus) and Atlantic sea scallops (Placopecten magellanicus) were purchased on the German market and compared with fresh shell-on king scallops of various origin. The approximate composition, inclusive citric acid and phosphates, minerals, free amino acids (FAA) and fatty acid profiles were examined in the muscle to identify changes as a result of processing. The FAA glycine and taurine as well the fatty acids 20:5n-3 (EPA) and 22:6n-3 (DHA) were the most abundant, but were reduced in processed samples. Di- and triphosphate contents were not detectable (<0.01 g·kg−1) in untreated meats. Most frozen scallop products contained added citrates and polyphosphates and had distinctly higher water contents (up to 89%) and an increased moisture to protein ratio (M/P) (up to 9) compared with the fresh king scallops (78%, M/P < 5). Labelling of species, verified by PCR-based DNA analysis, and ingredients were not correct in each case. Overall results indicated no relevant differences in mineral content, except high sodium contents, resulting from additives. Labelling does not readily allow the consumer to recognize the extent of processing effects.
Water Environmental Capacity Analysis of Taihu Lake and Parameter Estimation Based on the Integration of the Inverse Method and Bayesian Modeling
Authors: Li Ranran , Zou Zhihong
Published: September 2015

An integrated approach using the inverse method and Bayesian approach, combined with a lake eutrophication water quality model, was developed for parameter estimation and water environmental capacity (WEC) analysis. The model was used to support load reduction and effective water quality management in the Taihu Lake system in eastern China. Water quality was surveyed yearly from 1987 to 2010. Total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) were selected as water quality model variables. Decay rates of TN and TP were estimated using the proposed approach. WECs of TN and TP in 2011 were determined based on the estimated decay rates. Results showed that the historical loading was beyond the WEC, thus, reduction of nitrogen and phosphorus input is necessary to meet water quality goals. Then WEC and allowable discharge capacity (ADC) in 2015 and 2020 were predicted. The reduction ratios of ADC during these years were also provided. All of these enable decision makers to assess the influence of each loading and visualize potential load reductions under different water quality goals, and then to formulate a reasonable water quality management strategy.
Nipple Pain in Breastfeeding Mothers: Incidence, Causes and Treatments
Authors: Kent Jacqueline , Ashton Elizabeth , Hardwick Catherine , Rowan Marnie , Chia Elisa , Fairclough Kyle , Menon Lalitha , Scott Courtney , Mather-McCaw Georgia , Navarro Katherine , Geddes Donna
Published: September 2015

Background: Persistent nipple pain is one of the most common reasons given by mothers for ceasing exclusive breastfeeding. We aimed to determine the frequency of nipple pain as a reason for consultation, the most common attributed aetiologies, and the effectiveness of the advice and treatment given. Methods: All consultations at the Breast Feeding Centre of Western Australia (WA) were audited over two six-month periods in 2011 (n = 469) and 2014 (n = 708). Attributed cause(s) of nipple pain, microbiology results, treatment(s) advised, and resolution of pain were recorded. Results: Nipple pain was one of the reasons for consultation in 36% of cases. The most common attributed cause of nipple pain was incorrect positioning and attachment, followed by tongue tie, infection, palatal anomaly, flat or inverted nipples, mastitis, and vasospasm. Advice included correction of positioning and attachment, use of a nipple shield, resting the nipples and expressing breastmilk, frenotomy, oral antibiotics, topical treatments, and cold or warm compresses. Pain was resolving or resolved in 57% of cases after 18 days (range 2–110). Conclusion: The multiple attributed causes of nipple pain, possibly as a result of a cascade of events, suggests that effective early lactation management for prevention of nipple pain and early diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial to avoid early weaning.
Reviews of Geospatial Information Technology and Collaborative Data Delivery for Disaster Risk Management
Authors: Miyazaki Hiroyuki , Nagai Masahiko , Shibasaki Ryosuke
Published: September 2015

Due to the fact that geospatial information technology is considered necessary for disaster risk management (DRM), the need for more effective collaborations between providers and end users in data delivery is increasing. This paper reviews the following: (i) schemes of disaster risk management and collaborative data operation in DRM; (ii) geospatial information technology in terms of applications to the schemes reviewed; and (iii) ongoing practices of collaborative data delivery with the schemes reviewed. This paper concludes by discussing the future of collaborative data delivery and the progress of the technologies.
Nimbolide Induces ROS-Regulated Apoptosis and Inhibits Cell Migration in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Liu Ju-Fang , Hou Chun-Han , Lin Feng-Ling , Tsao Ya-Ting , Hou Sheng-Mou
Published: September 2015

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary malignant tumor of bone and is most prevalent in children and adolescents. OS is frequently associated with pulmonary metastasis, which is the main cause of OS-related mortality. OS has a poor prognosis and is often unresponsive to conventional chemotherapy. In this study, we determined that Nimbolide, a novel anti-cancer therapy, acts by modulating multiple mechanisms in osteosarcoma cells. Nimbolide induces apoptosis by increasing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and finally, caspase activation. We also determined that Nimbolide inhibits cell migration, which is crucial for metastasis, by reducing the expression of integrin αvβ5. In addition, our results demonstrate that integrin αvβ5 expression is modulated by the PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling cascade. Nimbolide has potential as an anti-tumor drug given its multifunctional effects in OS. Collectively, these results help us to understand the mechanisms of action of Nimbolide and will aid in the development of effective therapies for OS.
Sunflower Oil but Not Fish Oil Resembles Positive Effects of Virgin Olive Oil on Aged Pancreas after Life-Long Coenzyme Q Addition
Authors: González-Alonso Adrián , Ramírez-Tortosa César , Varela-López Alfonso , Roche Enrique , Arribas María , Ramírez-Tortosa M. , Giampieri Francesca , Ochoa Julio , Quiles José
Published: September 2015

An adequate pancreatic structure is necessary for optimal organ function. Structural changes are critical in the development of age-related pancreatic disorders. In this context, it has been reported that different pancreatic compartments from rats were affected according to the fat composition consumed. Since there is a close relationship between mitochondria, oxidative stress and aging, an experimental approach has been developed to gain more insight into this process in the pancreas. A low dosage of coenzyme Q was administered life-long in rats in order to try to prevent pancreatic aging-related alterations associated to some dietary fat sources. According to that, three groups of rats were fed normocaloric diets containing Coenzyme Q (CoQ) for two years, where virgin olive, sunflower, or fish oil was included as unique fat source. Pancreatic samples for microscopy and blood samples were collected at the moment of euthanasia. The main finding is that CoQ supplementation gives different results according to fat used in diet. When sunflower oil was the main fat in the diet, CoQ supplementation seems to improve endocrine pancreas structure and in particular β-cell mass resembling positive effects of virgin olive oil. Conversely, CoQ intake does not seem to improve the structural alterations of exocrine compartment previously observed in fish oil fed rats. Therefore CoQ may improve pancreatic alterations associated to the chronic intake of some dietary fat sources.
Photo-Oxidative Stress-Driven Mutagenesis and Adaptive Evolution on the Marine Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum for Enhanced Carotenoid Accumulation
Authors: Yi Zhiqian , Xu Maonian , Magnusdottir Manuela , Zhang Yuetuan , Brynjolfsson Sigurdur , Fu Weiqi
Published: September 2015

Marine diatoms have recently gained much attention as they are expected to be a promising resource for sustainable production of bioactive compounds such as carotenoids and biofuels as a future clean energy solution. To develop photosynthetic cell factories, it is important to improve diatoms for value-added products. In this study, we utilized UVC radiation to induce mutations in the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum and screened strains with enhanced accumulation of neutral lipids and carotenoids. Adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) was also used in parallel to develop altered phenotypic and biological functions in P. tricornutum and it was reported for the first time that ALE was successfully applied on diatoms for the enhancement of growth performance and productivity of value-added carotenoids to date. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was utilized to study the composition of major pigments in the wild type P. tricornutum, UV mutants and ALE strains. UVC radiated strains exhibited higher accumulation of fucoxanthin as well as neutral lipids compared to their wild type counterpart. In addition to UV mutagenesis, P. tricornutum strains developed by ALE also yielded enhanced biomass production and fucoxanthin accumulation under combined red and blue light. In short, both UV mutagenesis and ALE appeared as an effective approach to developing desired phenotypes in the marine diatoms via electromagnetic radiation-induced oxidative stress.
Regulation of the Target of Rapamycin and Other Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase-Related Kinases by Membrane Targeting
Authors: De Cicco Maristella , Rahim Munirah , Dames Sonja
Published: September 2015

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-related kinases (PIKKs) play vital roles in the regulation of cell growth, proliferation, survival, and consequently metabolism, as well as in the cellular response to stresses such as ionizing radiation or redox changes. In humans six family members are known to date, namely mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM), ataxia- and Rad3-related (ATR), DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), suppressor of morphogenesis in genitalia-1 (SMG-1), and transformation/transcription domain-associated protein (TRRAP). All fulfill rather diverse functions and most of them have been detected in different cellular compartments including various cellular membranes. It has been suggested that the regulation of the localization of signaling proteins allows for generating a locally specific output. Moreover, spatial partitioning is expected to improve the reliability of biochemical signaling. Since these assumptions may also be true for the regulation of PIKK function, the current knowledge about the regulation of the localization of PIKKs at different cellular (membrane) compartments by a network of interactions is reviewed. Membrane targeting can involve direct lipid-/membrane interactions as well as interactions with membrane-anchored regulatory proteins, such as, for example, small GTPases, or a combination of both.
Potent Activities of Roemerine against Candida albicans and the Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Ma Chaoyu , Du Faya , Yan Lan , He Gonghao , He Jianchang , Wang Chengying , Rao Gaoxiong , Jiang Yuanying , Xu Guili
Published: September 2015

Roemerine (RM) is an aporphine alkaloid isolated from the fresh rattan stem of Fibraurea recisa, and it has been demonstrated to have certain antifungal activity. This study aimed to investigate the antifungal activity of RM and the underlying mechanisms in Candida albicans (C. albicans). The in vitro antifungal activity of RM was evaluated by a series of experiments, including the XTT reduction assay, confocal laser scanning microscopy assay, scanning electron microscope assay. Results showed that 1 μg/mL RM inhibited biofilm formation significantly (p < 0.01) both in Spider medium and Lee’s medium. In addition, RM could inhibit yeast-to-hyphae transition of C. albicans in a dose-dependent manner. The biofilm-specific and hypha-specific genes such as YWP1, SAP5, SAP6, HWP1, ECE1 were up-regulated and EFG1 was down-regulated after 8 μg/mL RM treatment. Furthermore, the toxicity of RM was investigated using C. elegans worms, three cancer cells and one normal cell. The date showed that RM had no significant toxicity. In conclusion, RM could inhibited the formation of C. albicans biofilm in vitro, but it had no fungicidal effect on planktonic C. albicans cells, and the anti-biofilm mechanism may be related to the cAMP pathway.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Coated with a Phosphorothioate Oligonucleotide and a Cationic Peptide: Exploring Four Different Ways of Surface Functionalization
Authors: Geinguenaud Frédéric , Banissi Claire , Carpentier Antoine , Motte Laurence
Published: September 2015

The superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have great potential in therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Due to their superparamagnetic behavior, they are used clinically as a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) contrast agent. Iron oxide nanoparticles are also recognized todays as smart drug-delivery systems. However, to increase their specificity, it is essential to functionalize them with a molecule that effectively targets a specific area of the body. Among the molecules that can fulfill this role, peptides are excellent candidates. Oligonucleotides are recognized as potential drugs for various diseases but suffer from poor uptake and intracellular degradation. In this work, we explore four different strategies, based on the electrostatic interactions between the different partners, to functionalize the surface of SPIONs with a phosphorothioate oligonucleotide (ODN) and a cationic peptide labeled with a fluorophore. The internalization of the nanoparticles has been evaluated in vitro on RAW 264.7 cells. Among these strategies, the “«one-step assembly»”, i.e., the direct complexation of oligonucleotides and peptides on iron oxide nanoparticles, provides the best way of coating for the internalization of the nanocomplexes.
The Effect of Allylic Sulfide-Mediated IrreversibleAddition-Fragment Chain Transfer on the EmulsionPolymerization Kinetics of Styrene
Authors: An Li , Di Zhihui , Yu Biaobiao , Pu Jialing , Li Zhongxiao
Published: September 2015

The effect of the irreversible addition-fragment chain transfer agent, butyl(2-phenylallyl)sulfane (BPAS), on the course of the emulsion polymerization of styrene and on the product molecular weight was investigated. The emulsion polymerizations were performed using various amounts of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as the surfactant and potassium peroxodisulfate (KPS) as the initiator. The relationships between the rates of polymerization (\(R_{p} \)) and the number of particles per volume (\(N_{c} \)) with respect to the concentrations of KPS, SDS, and BPAS were found to be \(R_{p} \propto \left\lbrack KPS \right\rbrack^{0.29} \), \(N_{c} \propto \left\lbrack KPS \right\rbrack^{0.26} \),\(R_{p} \propto \left\lbrack SDS \right\rbrack^{0.68} \), \(N_{c} \propto \left\lbrack SDS \right\rbrack^{0.72} \), and \(R_{p} \propto \left\lbrack BPAS \right\rbrack^{- 0.73} \) . The obtained relationships can be attributed to the exit of the leaving group radicals on BPAS from the polymer particles. The experimental values of the average number of radicals per particle (\(\overset{\_}{n} \)) were strongly dependent on the BPAS concentration and were in good agreement with the theoretical values (\({\overset{\_}{n}}_{theo} \)) from model calculations. The number-average molecular weight (\(\overset{\_}{M_{n}} \)) can be controlled by BPAS over nearly the entire conversion range, which is also in agreement with the mathematical model. In addition, the transfer rate coefficient (\(k_{tr} \)) of BPAS can be estimated as 326 L/mol/s at 70 \(^\circ\)C. Moreover, similar good results were found for the tested redox reactions at 30 \(^\circ\)C.
Religion and Ethical Attitudes toward Accepting a Bribe: A Comparative Study
Authors: McGee Robert , Benk Serkan , Yüzbaşı Bahadır
Published: September 2015

This study presents the results of an empirical study of ethical attitudes toward bribe taking in six religions—Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, the Baha’i faith, Hinduism, and Judaism. The paper begins with a discussion of the theoretical and empirical literature on the subject. The empirical part of the study examines attitudes toward accepting bribes in 57 countries from the perspectives of six religions using the data from Wave 6 (2010–2014) of the World Values Survey. The sample population is more than 52,000. More than a dozen demographic variables were examined. The study found that attitude toward bribe taking does differ by religion.
Influence of Reflectivity and Cloud Cover on the Optimal TiltAngle of Solar Panels
Authors: Torres David , Crichigno Jorge
Published: September 2015

Determining the optimum angle for a solar panel is important if tracking systems are not used and a tilt angle remains constant. This article determines the sensitivity of the optimum angle to surface reflectivity at different latitudes using a mathematical model that accounts for direct, diffuse and reflected radiation. A quadratic correlation is also developed to compute the optimal angle and maximum energy as a function of latitude and reflectivity. We also seek to determine how sensitive the optimal tilt angle is to cloud cover using the 35° latitude of the Prosperity solar facility in Albuquerque, NM.
Robotic Design Choice Overview Using Co-Simulation and Design Space Exploration
Authors: Christiansen Martin , Larsen Peter , Jørgensen Rasmus
Published: September 2015

Rapid robotic system development has created a demand for multi-disciplinary methods and tools to explore and compare design alternatives. In this paper, we present a collaborative modeling technique that combines discrete-event models of controller software with continuous-time models of physical robot components. The proposed co-modeling method utilizes the Vienna development method (VDM) and MATLAB for discrete-event modeling and 20-sim for continuous-time modeling. The model-based development of a mobile robot mink feeding system is used to illustrate the collaborative modeling method. Simulations are used to evaluate the robot model output response in relation to operational demands. An example of a load-carrying challenge in relation to the feeding robot is presented, and a design space is defined with candidate solutions in both the mechanical and software domains. Simulation results are analyzed using design space exploration (DSE), which evaluates candidate solutions in relation to preselected optimization criteria. The result of the analysis provides developers with an overview of the impacts of each candidate solution in the chosen design space. Based on this overview of solution impacts, the developers can select viable candidates for deployment and testing with the actual robot.
LEED Credit Review System and Optimization Model for Pursuing LEED Certification
Authors: Choi Jin , Bhatla Ankit , Stoppel Christopher , Shane Jennifer
Published: September 2015

Incorporating sustainability in construction can result in desirable building attributes and project life cycle. The Leadership in Engineering and Environmental Design (LEED®) Rating System helps project teams make the right green building decisions for their projects through a process. However, in current practice, project teams do not have a systematic procedure or tool for choosing the LEED credits appropriate for a particular project. The researchers have developed a tool, which support the LEED integrative process during a charrette, and developed an optimization model that can be utilized to assist project teams determine which credits to pursue for LEED certification, taking into account potential benefits associated with any LEED credit. The tool enables owners to incorporate sustainability in construction by helping the project teams make the right green building decisions for their projects through an integrated procedure.
Quantitative Analysis of Urban Pluvial Flood Alleviation by Open Surface Water Systems in New Towns: Comparing Almere and Tianjin Eco-City
Authors: Zhou Zhengnan , Qu Lei , Zou Tao
Published: September 2015

Increased surface runoff generated in urban areas due to larger proportion of impervious surfaces has, in many cases, exceeded the capacity of urban drainage systems. In response to such challenge, this paper introduces the quantitative analysis of pluvial flood alleviation by open surface water systems in the case of Almere in the Netherlands and compares it with Tianjin Eco-City in China, with the aim of optimizing land use planning and urban design for new urban districts. The methodology is a combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis. With the analytical tool of ArcGIS, the authors have investigated the influence of spatial distribution of surface water system on the reduction of pluvial flood risks. The conclusions include some preliminary principles: (1) a densely distributed surface water network is preferable; (2) areas farther away from water body require water sensitive spatial intervention; and (3) optimizing the allocation of different types of ground surface could contribute to pluvial flood alleviation. An alternative design proposal for a typical urban block in Tianjin Eco-City has been put forward to illustrate these principles.
Viroporins: Structures and functions beyond cell membrane permeabilization
Authors: Nieva José , Carrasco Luis
Published: September 2015

Viroporins represent an interesting group of viral proteins that exhibit two sets of functions. First, they participate in several viral processes that are necessary for efficient production of virus progeny. [...]
Filoviruses: One of These Things is (not) Like the Other
Authors: Anthony Scott , Bradfute Steven
Published: September 2015

The family Filoviridae contains several of the most deadly pathogens known to date and the current Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in Western Africa, due to Ebola virus (EBOV) infection, highlights the need for active and broad research into filovirus pathogenesis. However, in comparison, the seven other known filovirus family members are significantly understudied. Many of these, including Marburgviruses and Ebolaviruses other than EBOV, are also highly virulent and fully capable of causing widespread epidemics. This review places the focus on these non-EBOV filoviruses, including known immunological and pathological data. The available animal models, research tools and currently available therapeutics will also be discussed along with an emphasis in the large number of current gaps in knowledge of these less highlighted filoviruses. It is evident that much research is yet to be done in order to bring the non-EBOV filovirus field to the forefront of current research and, importantly, to the development of more effective vaccines and therapeutics to combat potential future outbreaks.
Differentially-Expressed Pseudogenes in HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Gupta Aditi , Brown C. , Zheng Yong-Hui , Adami Christoph
Published: September 2015

Not all pseudogenes are transcriptionally silent as previously thought. Pseudogene transcripts, although not translated, contribute to the non-coding RNA pool of the cell that regulates the expression of other genes. Pseudogene transcripts can also directly compete with the parent gene transcripts for mRNA stability and other cell factors, modulating their expression levels. Tissue-specific and cancer-specific differential expression of these “functional” pseudogenes has been reported. To ascertain potential pseudogene:gene interactions in HIV-1 infection, we analyzed transcriptomes from infected and uninfected T-cells and found that 21 pseudogenes are differentially expressed in HIV-1 infection. This is interesting because parent genes of one-third of these differentially-expressed pseudogenes are implicated in HIV-1 life cycle, and parent genes of half of these pseudogenes are involved in different viral infections. Our bioinformatics analysis identifies candidate pseudogene:gene interactions that may be of significance in HIV-1 infection. Experimental validation of these interactions would establish that retroviruses exploit this newly-discovered layer of host gene expression regulation for their own benefit.
Can the Adoption of Desalination Technology Lead to Aquifer Preservation? A Case Study of a Sociotechnical Water System in Baja California Sur, Mexico
Authors: McEvoy Jamie
Published: September 2015

There is growing concern about the sustainability of groundwater supplies worldwide. In many regions, desalination—the conversion of saline water to freshwater—is viewed as a way to increase water supplies and reduce pressure on overdrawn aquifers. Using data from reports, articles, interviews, a survey, and a focus group, this paper examines if, and how, the adoption of desalination technology can lead to aquifer preservation in Baja California Sur (BCS), Mexico. The paper outlines existing institutional arrangements (i.e., laws, rules, norms, or organizations) surrounding desalination in BCS and concludes that there are currently no effective mechanisms to ensure aquifer preservation. Four mechanisms that could be implemented to improve groundwater management are identified, including: 1) integrated water-and land-use planning; 2) creation of an institute responsible for coordinated and consistent planning; 3) improved groundwater monitoring; and 4) implementation of water conservation measures prior to the adoption of desalination technology. This paper concludes that viewing water technologies, including desalination, as sociotechnical systems—i.e., a set of technological components that are embedded in complex social, political, and economic contexts—has the potential to create a more sustainable human–environment–technology relationship. By assessing desalination technology as a sociotechnical system, this study highlights the need to focus on institutional development and capacity building, especially within local water utilities and urban planning agencies.
Application of a 3D Layer Integrated Numerical Model of Flow and Sediment Transport Processes to a Reservoir
Authors: Faghihirad Shervin , Lin Binliang , Falconer Roger
Published: September 2015

Details are given in the paper of the refinement of a three-dimensional layer integrated turbulence model and its application to a scaled physical model of a reservoir, named Hamidieh Reservoir, in Iran. The strong turbulent flows generated in this reservoir are due to the high volumes of flow diversion, with low head differences. In this paper, a refined numerical model is applied to a reservoir, associated with a dam, water intakes and sluice gates, with the aim being to investigate the flow patterns and sediment transport processes in the vicinity of such hydraulic structures. The calibration of the model is undertaken using measurements made from a scaled physical model. The numerical model is able to predict the conditions for a range of scenarios that are difficult to test in the physical model. Different scenarios are introduced to investigate the effects of various intake and sluice gate configurations, as well as their operation schemes on the flow and sediment transport processes into Hamidieh Reservoir. The results indicate that the flow velocity field in the vicinity of one of the intakes varies significantly. Moreover, the sluice gates do not appear to have any considerable effect on the suspended sediment concentrations moving through the intakes.
Applying a System Dynamics Approach for Modeling Groundwater Dynamics to Depletion under Different Economical and Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Balali Hamid , Viaggi Davide
Published: September 2015

In the recent decades, due to many different factors, including climate change effects towards be warming and lower precipitation, as well as some structural policies such as more intensive harvesting of groundwater and low price of irrigation water, the level of groundwater has decreased in most plains of Iran. The objective of this study is to model groundwater dynamics to depletion under different economic policies and climate change by using a system dynamics approach. For this purpose a dynamic hydro-economic model which simultaneously simulates the farmer’s economic behavior, groundwater aquifer dynamics, studied area climatology factors and government economical policies related to groundwater, is developed using STELLA 10.0.6. The vulnerability of groundwater balance is forecasted under three scenarios of climate including the Dry, Nor and Wet and also, different scenarios of irrigation water and energy pricing policies. Results show that implementation of some economic policies on irrigation water and energy pricing can significantly affect on groundwater exploitation and its volume balance. By increasing of irrigation water price along with energy price, exploitation of groundwater will improve, in so far as in scenarios S15 and S16, studied area’s aquifer groundwater balance is positive at the end of planning horizon, even in Dry condition of precipitation. Also, results indicate that climate change can affect groundwater recharge. It can generally be expected that increases in precipitation would produce greater aquifer recharge rates.