bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENERAPAN KURIKULUM TINGKAT SATUAN PENDIDIKAN IMPLIKASINYA PADA STRATEGI PEMBELAJARAN TEMATIK DI SEKOLAH DASAR KELAS RENDAH
Authors: Warsita Bambang
Published: September 2018

Penerapan Kurikulum Tingkat Satuan Pendidikan (KTSP) diharapkan dapat menggerakkan mesin utama pendidikan yaitu pembelajaran. Pembelajaran merupakan suatu upaya untuk menciptakan kondisi agar terjadi kegiatan belajar. Sedangkan penerapan KTSP di Sekolah Dasar (SD) menuntut proses pembelajaran yang menantang dan merangsang otak (kognitif), menyentuh dan menggerakkan hati (afektif), dan mendorong peserta didik untuk melakukan kegiatan (motorik) serta bila memungkinkan peserta didik mempraktekkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan dalam kehidupan nyata. Oleh karena itu implementasi KTSP di kelas I, II, dan II SD disarankan dikelola dalam pembelajaran terpadu dan bermakna (meaningfull learning) melalui strategi pembelajaran tematik. Penerapan pembelajaran tematik di kelas I, II, dan II SD berimplikasi pada guru, peserta didik, sarana dan prasarana, sumber belajar dan media pembelajaran, pengaturan ruangan, dan pemilihan metode pembelajaran.
SISTEM E-LEARNING BERBASIS MODEL MOTIVASI KOMUNITAS
Authors: Wahono Romi Satria
Published: September 2018

e-Learning system is a required solution in education at this globalization era. The existence of e-Learning with information tecnology support bring the transformation from conventional education process into digital form, both content and system perspective. However, recently e-Learning industry is experiencing of crisis, causing to failure and lack of e-Learning implementation in various sector in the world. Failure is especially caused by limited number of user and the lack of motivation to finish eLearning. This paper give solution by developing e-Learning system based on community motivation model which able to overcome the problems regarding to user motivation in the implementation of e-Learning system. Model is developed based on the theory of learning motivation and requirement capturing from the requirement engineeringâ€™s field. The indicators used to measure the model effectiveness are hit and visit statistics, traffic ranking, comparison with other similar e-Learning system, and the relation between concepts in model. Community motivation model have been implemented in web based public e-Learning systems (IlmuKomputer.Com), with the significant results appeared
Experimental Validation of an Onboard Transient Luminous Events Observation System for VisionCube via Ground Simulation Environment
Authors: Kim Seho , Nam Taehyung , Jung Dongwon
Published: September 2018

The VisionCube is a 2-unit CubeSat developed in house, of which the primary mission is detecting the occurrence of transient luminous events (TLEs) in the upper atmosphere and obtaining corresponding images from a low Earth orbit. An onboard TLE observation system of the VisionCube CubeSat is designed and developed by incorporating a photon-sensitive multi-anode photon-multiplier tube (MaPMT) and an image sensor. Also, a distinctive TLE observation software which enables detection of the TLEs and capture of images in a timely manner is devised. By taking into account the limited resources of a small CubeSat in size and power, the onboard observation system is developed employing a system-on-chip device by which both hardware and software can be integrated seamlessly. The purpose of this study is to investigate the functionality of the hardware and the validity of the software algorithm to show that the onboard system will function properly with no human intervention during the operations in space. To this end, a ground simulation facility is constructed to emulate TLEs occurring in space using a set of ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV LEDs) inside a darkbox. Based on the analysis of the spectral and temporal properties of the TLEs, the randomly generated UV LED pulses are chosen for verification scenarios for the TLE observation system. The validation results show that the hardware and the software algorithm of the onboard observation systems can effectively detect the TLEs and obtain the images during the in-orbit operation.
Theoretical and Numerical Analyses of Earth Pressure Coefficient along the Centerline of Vertical Openings with Granular Fills
Authors: Yang Pengyu , Li Li , Aubertin Michel
Published: September 2018

Granular filling materials are placed into confining structures for various purposes, including but not limited to silos, trenches, mine stopes, and retaining walls for backfill. Stresses in these backfilled openings are commonly estimated using theoretical arching models, with equations that often involve the earth pressure coefficient K (=σ’h/σ’v). Such stress estimation can be dramatically impacted by the magnitude of K, but its value remains debatable. Along the centerline of vertical openings with granular cohesionless fills, the value of K is sometimes obtained by Jaky’s earth pressure coefficient at rest K0, based on the assumption of fixed confining walls, whereas Rankine’s active earth pressure coefficient Ka is regarded more suitable for K as claimed by some others. Recent numerical analyses from the authors have shown that the state of stress close to the center of backfilled openings cannot be solely related to wall movement. It was also shown that the K value can vary between Ka and K0 in backfilled openings with fixed (immobile) walls, depending on the locations and respective values of fill internal friction angle ϕ’ and Poisson’s ratio ν. However, none of the existing works have addressed the mechanisms and answered this fundamental but critical question: which value of coefficient K (K0, Ka, or other) should be used with analytical solutions to assess the stresses in backfilled openings (and why)? After assessing the state of the fill placed in a confined opening, theoretical relationships and specific mechanisms are proposed, for the first time, to evaluate critical values of ν and ϕ’ for defining the at-rest and active states in fills. The approach indicates that when ν or ϕ’ are smaller than or equal to critical values, the value of K near the center line of a backfill opening should be close to Ka; otherwise, K tends to approach K0 defined from ν. The theoretical analysis is complemented and validated (in part) by numerical simulations. The results also demonstrate that Poisson’s ratio can play a major role on the stress distribution within cohesionless fills, and should thus be accurately evaluated.
Global-Entropy Driven Exploration with Distributed Models under Sparsity Constraints
Authors: Manss Christoph , Shutin Dmitriy
Published: September 2018

This paper focuses on exploration when using different data distribution schemes and ADMM as a solver for swarms. By exploration, we mean the estimation of new measurement locations that are beneficial for the model estimation. In particular, the different distribution schemes are splitting-over-features or heterogeneous learning and splitting-over-examples or homogeneous learning. Each agent contributes a solution to solve the joint optimization problem by using ADMM and the consensus algorithm. This paper shows that some information is unknown to the individual agent, and thus, the estimation of new measurement positions is not possible without further communication. Therefore, this paper shows results for how to distribute only necessary information for a global exploration. We show the benefits between the proposed global exploration scheme and benchmark exploration schemes such as random walk and systematic traversing, i.e., meandering. The proposed waypoint estimation methods are then tested against each other and with other movement methods. This paper shows that a movement method, which considers the current information within the model, is superior to the benchmark movement methods.
An Enhancing Fault Current Limitation Hybrid Droop/V-f Control for Grid-Tied Four-Wire Inverters in AC Microgrids
Authors: Heredero-Peris Daniel , Chillón-Antón Cristian , Pagès-Giménez Marc , Montesinos-Miracle Daniel , Santamaría Mikel , Rivas David , Aguado Mónica
Published: September 2018

Microgrid integration and fault protection in complex network scenarios is a coming challenge to be faced with new strategies and solutions. In this context of increasing complexity, this paper describes two specific overload control strategies for four-wire inverters integrated in low voltage four-wire alternating current (AC) microgrids. The control of grid-tied microgrid inverters has been widely studied in the past and mainly focused on the use of droop control, which hugely constrains the time response during grid-disconnected operation. Taking into account the previous knowledge and experience about this subject, the main contribution of these two proposals regards providing fault current limitation in both operation modes, over-load capability skills in grid-connected operation and sinusoidal short-circuit proof in grid-disconnected operation. In the complex operation scenarios mentioned above, a hybrid combination of AC droop control based on dynamic phasors with varying virtual resistance, and voltage/frequency master voltage control for grid-(dis)connected operation modes are adopted as the mechanism to enhance time response. The two proposals described in the present document are validated by means of simulations using Matlab/Simulink and real experimental results obtained from CENER (The National Renewable Energy Centre) experimental ATENEA four-wire AC microgrid, obtaining time responses in the order of two-three grid cycles for all cases.
Epidemiology of Moderate Alcohol Consumption and Breast Cancer: Association or Causation?
Authors: Zakhari Samir , Hoek Jan B.
Published: September 2018

Epidemiological studies have been used to show associations between modifiable lifestyle habits and the incidence of breast cancer. Among such factors, a history of alcohol use has been reported in multiple studies and meta-analyses over the past decades. However, associative epidemiological studies that were interpreted as evidence that even moderate alcohol consumption increases breast cancer incidence have been controversial. In this review, we consider the literature on the relationship between moderate or heavy alcohol use, both in possible biological mechanisms and in variations in susceptibility due to genetic or epigenetic factors. We argue that there is a need to incorporate additional approaches to move beyond the associations that are reported in traditional epidemiological analyses and incorporate information on molecular pathologic signatures as a requirement to posit causal inferences. In particular, we point to the efforts of the transdisciplinary field of molecular pathological epidemiology (MPE) to evaluate possible causal relationships, if any, of alcohol consumption and breast cancer. A wider application of the principles of MPE to this field would constitute a giant step that could enhance our understanding of breast cancer and multiple modifiable risk factors, a step that would be particularly suited to the era of “personalized medicine”.
Prognostic Factors in Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Single-Center Study in 90 Patients
Authors: Rastrelli Marco , Ferrazzi Beatrice , Cavallin Francesco , Chiarion Sileni Vanna , Pigozzo Jacopo , Fabozzi Alessio , Tropea Saveria , Vecchiato Antonella , Costa Alessandra , Parisi Alessandro , Rossi Carlo Riccardo , Del Fiore Paolo , Alaibac Mauro
Published: September 2018

Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive neuroendocrine neoplasm of the skin. This study aimed at describing characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of a series of consecutive cases of MCC patients, in order to contribute to the investigation of this rare malignancy and provide better patient care. This is a retrospective cohort study including all 90 patients diagnosed and/or treated for MCC between 1991 and 2018 at the Veneto Institute of Oncology in Padua (Italy). Patient and tumor characteristics, treatment, and immunohistochemical data were extracted from a prospectively collected local database. There were 68 primary (76%) and 22 non-primary (15 occult primary, three metastatic, four recurrence) tumors (24%). CK20 expression was associated with reduced overall (HR 2.92, 95% CI 1.04–8.16) and disease-specific (HR 4.62, 95% CI 1.31–16.28) survival. Immunomodulatory regimens for treatment of other comorbidities were associated with reduced disease-specific ((HR 2.15, 95% CI 1.06–4.36) and recurrence-free (HR 3.08, 95% CI 1.44–6.57) survival. Iatrogenic immunomodulation resulted as the main factor associated with impaired prognosis. Lack of CK20 expression was associated with better survival.
Multifaceted Interweaving Between Extracellular Matrix, Insulin Resistance, and Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Ahmad Khurshid , Lee Eun Ju , Moon Jun Sung , Park So-Young , Choi Inho
Published: September 2018

The skeletal muscle provides movement and support to the skeleton, controls body temperature, and regulates the glucose level within the body. This is the core tissue of insulin-mediated glucose uptake via glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4). The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides integrity and biochemical signals and plays an important role in myogenesis. In addition, it undergoes remodeling upon injury and/or repair, which is also related to insulin resistance (IR), a major cause of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Altered signaling of integrin and ECM remodeling in diet-induced obesity is associated with IR. This review highlights the interweaving relationship between the ECM, IR, and skeletal muscle. In addition, the importance of the ECM in muscle integrity as well as cellular functions is explored. IR and skeletal muscle ECM remodeling has been discussed in clinical and nonclinical aspects. Furthermore, this review considers the role of ECM glycation and its effects on skeletal muscle homeostasis, concentrating on advanced glycation end products (AGEs) as an important risk factor for the development of IR. Understanding this complex interplay between the ECM, muscle, and IR may improve knowledge and help develop new ideas for novel therapeutics for several IR-associated myopathies and diabetes.
Autophagy in Metabolic Age-Related Human Diseases
Authors: Moulis Manon , Vindis Cecile
Published: September 2018

Autophagy is a highly conserved homeostatic cellular mechanism that mediates the degradation of damaged organelles, protein aggregates, and invading pathogens through a lysosome-dependent pathway. Over the last few years, specific functions of autophagy have been discovered in many tissues and organs; however, abnormal upregulation or downregulation of autophagy has been depicted as an attribute of a variety of pathologic conditions. In this review, we will describe the current knowledge on the role of autophagy, from its regulation to its physiological influence, in metabolic age-related disorders. Finally, we propose to discuss the therapeutic potential of pharmacological and nutritional modulators of autophagy to treat metabolic diseases.
Bilateral Wilms Tumor: A Surgical Perspective
Authors: Murphy Andrew J. , Davidoff Andrew M.
Published: September 2018

Historically, the management of bilateral Wilms tumor (BWT) was non-standardized and suffered from instances of prolonged chemotherapy and inconsistent surgical management which resulted in suboptimal renal and oncologic outcomes. Because of the risk of end-stage renal disease associated with the management of BWT, neoadjuvant chemotherapy and nephron-sparing surgery have been adopted as the guiding management principles. This management strategy balances acceptable oncologic outcomes against the risk of end-stage renal disease. A recent multi-institutional Children’s Oncology Group study (AREN0534) has confirmed the benefits of standardized 3-drug neoadjuvant chemotherapy and the utilization of nephron-sparing surgery in BWT patients; however, less than 50% of patients underwent bilateral nephron-sparing surgery. The coordination of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and the timing and implementation of bilateral nephron-sparing surgery are features of BWT management that require collaboration between oncologists and surgeons. This review discusses the surgical management strategy in the context of BWT disease biology, with an emphasis on timepoints during therapy at which surgical decision making can greatly impact this disease and minimize long-term toxicities.
Selective Grafting of Polyamines to Polyether Ether Ketone Surface during Molding and Its Use for Chemical Plating
Authors: Nagel Jürgen , Zimmermann Philipp , Schwarz Simona , Schlenstedt Kornelia
Published: September 2018

We present a new approach of surface functionalization of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) that is carried out during the molding step. Thin films of polymers with different functional groups were applied to the surface of a mold and brought in close contact with a PEEK melt during injection molding. The surfaces of the produced parts were characterized after solidification. Only those PEEK surfaces that were in contact with polymers bearing primary amino groups exhibited a wettability for water. Obviously, the thin polymer film was grafted to the surface by a chemical reaction initiated by the high melt temperature. The formation of azomethine bonds between PEEK and the polyamine by coupling to the ketone groups was proposed. The other amino groups in the molecule were still in function after the molding process. They adsorbed different anionic molecules and anionic charged nanoparticles from aqueous solutions. The surfaces could be chemically plated by copper and nickel with high adhesion.
Solvent Effects on the Spin-Transition in a Series of Fe(II) Dinuclear Triple Helicate Compounds
Authors: Craze Alexander R. , Bhadbhade Mohan M. , Kepert Cameron J. , Lindoy Leonard F. , Marjo Christopher E. , Li Feng
Published: September 2018

This work explores the effect of lattice solvent on the observed solid-state spin-transition of a previously reported dinuclear Fe(II) triple helicate series 1–3 of the general form [FeII2L3](BF4)4(CH3CN)n, where L is the Schiff base condensation product of imidazole-4-carbaldehyde with 4,4-diaminodiphenylmethane (L1), 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl sulfide (L2) and 4,4′-diaminodiphenyl ether (L3) respectively, and 1 is the complex when L = L1, 2 when L = L2 and 3 when L = L3 (Craze, A.R.; Sciortino, N.F.; Bhadbhade, M.M.; Kepert, C.J.; Marjo, C.E.; Li, F. Investigation of the Spin Crossover Properties of Three Dinuclear Fe(II) Triple Helicates by Variation of the Steric Nature of the Ligand Type. Inorganics. 2017, 5 (4), 62). Desolvation of 1 and 2 during measurement resulted not only in a decrease in T1/2 and completeness of spin-crossover (SCO) but also a change in the number of steps in the spin-profile. Compounds 1 and 2 were observed to change from a two-step 70% complete transition when fully solvated, to a single-step half complete transition upon desolvation. The average T1/2 value of the two-steps in the solvated materials was equivalent to the single T1/2 of the desolvated sample. Upon solvent loss, the magnetic profile of 3 experienced a transformation from a gradual SCO or weak antiferromagnetic interaction to a single half-complete spin-transition. Variable temperature single-crystal structures are presented and the effects of solvent molecules are also explored crystallographically and via a Hirshfeld surface analysis. The spin-transition profiles of 1–3 may provide further insight into previous discrepancies in dinuclear triple helicate SCO research reported by the laboratories of Hannon and Gütlich on analogous systems (Tuna, F.; Lees, M. R.; Clarkson, G. J.; Hannon, M. J. Readily Prepared Metallo-Supramolecular Triple Helicates Designed to Exhibit Spin-Crossover Behaviour. Chem. Eur. J. 2004, 10, 5737–5750 and Garcia, Y.; Grunert, C. M.; Reiman, S.; van Campenhoudt, O.; Gütlich, P. The Two-Step Spin Conversion in a Supramolecular Triple Helicate Dinuclear Iron(II) Complex Studied by Mössbauer Spectroscopy. Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 2006, 3333–3339).
Experience Applying the Guidelines for Reporting Reliability and Agreement Studies (GRRAS) Indicated Five Questions Should Be Addressed in the Planning Phase from a Statistical Point of View
Authors: Gerke Oke , Möller Sören , Debrabant Birgit , Halekoh Ulrich ,   Odense Agreement Working Group
Published: September 2018

The Guidelines for Reporting Reliability and Agreement Studies (GRRAS) were proposed in 2011 to support transparent and accurate reporting. These studies may be conducted with the primary aim of estimating reliability and/or agreement itself, but are more often than not part of larger diagnostic accuracy studies, clinical trials, or epidemiological studies. As such, the study design may be compromised in terms of practicability issues, preventing the collection of sufficient results. We presented an example from a consultancy with a difficult mission and discussed five questions that concern the very nature of such a study (agreement vs. reliability; intra- vs. interrater), the rater population, explanatory factors in a multivariable model, and the statistical analysis strategy. Discussion of such basic methodological and statistical questions must take place before an investigation is started in order to ensure adequate data collection, to predict possible complications in the study, to plan sufficient statistical analyses, and to request timely assistance from an experienced statistician. GRRAS and its accompanying checklist of 15 items proved to be most helpful. Hopefully, our commentary will help improve the planning of agreement and reliability studies, which, in turn, will then be more focused, more appropriate, and more easily reported using GRRAS.
The Role of Vitamin E in the Treatment of NAFLD
Authors: Perumpail Brandon J. , Li Andrew A. , John Nimy , Sallam Sandy , Shah Neha D. , Kwong Waiyee , Cholankeril George , Kim Donghee , Ahmed Aijaz
Published: September 2018

There has been a growing interest in the role of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment and/or prevention of nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD). We performed a systematic review of the medical literature from inception through 15 June 2018 by utilizing PubMed and searching for key terms such as NAFLD, vitamin E, alpha-tocopherol, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Data from studies and medical literature focusing on the role of vitamin E therapy in patients with NAFLD and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) were reviewed. Most studies assessing the impact of vitamin E in NAFLD were designed to evaluate patients with NASH with documented biochemical and histological abnormalities. These studies demonstrated improvement in biochemical profiles, with a decline in or normalization of liver enzymes. Furthermore, histological assessment showed favorable outcomes in lobular inflammation and hepatic steatosis following treatment with vitamin E. Current guidelines regarding the use of vitamin E in the setting of NAFLD recommend that vitamin E-based treatment be restricted to biopsy-proven nondiabetic patients with NASH only. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the use of vitamin E in patients with NASH due to its adverse effects profile and lack of significant improvement in hepatic fibrosis. In conclusion, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties of vitamin E accompanied by ease-of-use and exceptional tolerability have made vitamin E a pragmatic therapeutic choice in non-diabetic patients with histologic evidence of NASH. Future clinical trials with study design to assess vitamin E in combination with other anti-fibrotic agents may yield an additive or synergistic therapeutic effect.
Image Thresholding Segmentation on Quantum State Space
Authors: Wang Xiangluo , Yang Chunlei , Xie Guo-Sen , Liu Zhonghua
Published: September 2018

Aiming to implement image segmentation precisely and efficiently, we exploit new ways to encode images and achieve the optimal thresholding on quantum state space. Firstly, the state vector and density matrix are adopted for the representation of pixel intensities and their probability distribution, respectively. Then, the method based on global quantum entropy maximization (GQEM) is proposed, which has an equivalent object function to Otsu’s, but gives a more explicit physical interpretation of image thresholding in the language of quantum mechanics. To reduce the time consumption for searching for optimal thresholds, the method of quantum lossy-encoding-based entropy maximization (QLEEM) is presented, in which the eigenvalues of density matrices can give direct clues for thresholding, and then, the process of optimal searching can be avoided. Meanwhile, the QLEEM algorithm achieves two additional effects: (1) the upper bound of the thresholding level can be implicitly determined according to the eigenvalues; and (2) the proposed approaches ensure that the local information in images is retained as much as possible, and simultaneously, the inter-class separability is maximized in the segmented images. Both of them contribute to the structural characteristics of images, which the human visual system is highly adapted to extract. Experimental results show that the proposed methods are able to achieve a competitive quality of thresholding and the fastest computation speed compared with the state-of-the-art methods.
Does the Middle School Model Make a Difference? Relating Measures of School Effectiveness to Recommended Best Practices
Authors: Olofson Mark , Knight David
Published: September 2018

Since the emergence of middle schools as distinct educational settings in the 1960s, proponents of the model have advocated for structures and approaches that best meet the particular developmental needs of young adolescents. Middle school researchers have developed frameworks of best practices for schools that have been widely, if not uniformly, adopted. However, there is a paucity of large-scale quantitative research on the efficacy of such best practices. In this study we used state-level administrative data from Texas to estimate the school-level contribution to standardized test scores in math and language arts, along with absenteeism. We then regressed these value-added quantities on indicators of middle school structures, along with research-supported predictors of school efficacy. Results showed that schools with fewer classes in the school day and higher quality teachers performed better, among other indicators. Findings from models using the campus contribution to absenteeism were similar. These results indicate that while elements of the middle school model may help transform individual schools, the equitable distribution of resources and the undoing of de facto segregation are vital to the success of all young adolescents.
Path Planning for Mobile Agents Using a Genetic Algorithm with a Direction Guided Factor
Authors: Lee Hyeok-Yeon , Shin Hyunwoo , Chae Junjae
Published: September 2018

This paper suggests a novel methodology in collision-free shortest path planning (CFSPP) problems for mobile agents (MAs) using a method that combines a genetic algorithm (GA) and a direction factor toward a target point. In the CFSPP problem, MAs find the shortest path from the starting point to the target point while avoiding certain obstacles. The paper proposes an obstacle-based search methodology that identifies critical collision-free points adjacent to given obstacles. When critical obstacles are found via CFSPP, this study suggests favorable paths in 2-dimensional space found using the obstacle-based GA (OBGA). The OBGA has four advantages. First, it effectively narrows the search spaces compared to free space-based methodologies. It also determines shorter collision-free paths, and it only requires a short amount of time. Finally, convergence occurs more quickly than in previous studies. The proposed method also works properly in larger and more complex environments, indicating that it can be applied to more practical problems.
The Main Elements of a Strategy for Combined Utilization of Industrial and Municipal Waste from Neighboring Regions by Burning it as Part of Composite Fuels
Authors: Glushkov Dmitrii , Kuznetsov Geniy , Paushkina Kristina , Shabardin Dmitrii
Published: September 2018

An experimental study has been conducted into the ignition and combustion processes of composite fuel droplets fed into a heated muffle furnace on a holder. Consistent patterns and characteristics of physical and chemical processes have been established for a group of fuel compositions: wet coal processing waste (a mixture of fine coals and water) 85% + municipal solid waste (wood, or plastic, or rubber) 10% + used oil 5%. Burning a coal-water slurry instead of dry coal dust is characterized by a positive environmental effect. Adding used oil to a coal-water slurry results in better energy performance characteristics of the composite fuel during combustion. Adding fine municipal solid waste (MSW) to the fuel composition makes it possible to effectively recover it by burning in boiler furnaces with energy performance characteristics of combustion and environmental characteristics of flue gases that are as good as those of composite fuel compositions without MSW. Sustainability of the composite fuel ignition process and complete burnout of liquid and solid combustible components have been determined. The values of the guaranteed ignition delay times for droplets with a size (diameter) of about 2 mm have been established for the composite fuel compositions under study in the ambient temperature range 600–1000 °C. The minimum values of ignition delay times are about 3 s, the maximum values are about 15 s under the near-threshold ignition conditions. The obtained findings enabled to elaborate the main elements of the strategy for combined recovery of industrial and municipal waste by burning it as part of composite fuels.
(Solar) Mixed Reforming of Methane: Potential and Limits in Utilizing CO2 as Feedstock for Syngas Production—A Thermodynamic Analysis
Authors: Von Storch Henrik , Becker-Hardt Sonja , Sattler Christian
Published: September 2018

The reforming of natural gas with steam and CO2 is commonly referred to as mixed reforming and considered a promising route to utilize CO2 in the production of synthetic fuels and base chemicals such as methanol. In the present study, the mixed reforming reaction is assessed regarding its potential to effectively utilize CO2 in such processes based on simple thermodynamic models. Requirements for the mixed reforming reactions based on process considerations are defined. These are the avoidance of carbon formation in the reactor, high conversion of the valuable inlet streams CH4 and CO2 as well as a suitable syngas composition for subsequent synthesis. The syngas composition is evaluated based on the module M = ( z H 2 − z CO 2 ) / ( z CO 2 + z CO ) ,   which should assume a value close to 2. A large number of different configurations regarding CO2/H2O/CH4 at the reactor inlet, operating pressure and outlet temperature are simulated and evaluated according to the defined requirements. The results show that the actual potential of the mixed reforming reaction to utilize CO2 as feedstock for fuels and methanol is limited to approximately 0.35 CO2/CH4, which is significantly lower than suggested in literature. At 900 °C and 7 bar at the reactor outlet, which is seen suitable for solar reforming, a ratio of H2O/CH4 of 1.4 can be set and the resulting value of M is 1.92 (CO2/CO/H2 = 0.07/0.4/1).
Maximum Power Extraction from a Partially Shaded PV System Using an Interleaved Boost Converter
Authors: Farh Hassan M. H. , Othman Mohd F. , Eltamaly Ali M. , Al-Saud M. S.
Published: September 2018

The partially shaded photovoltaic (PSPV) condition reduces the generated power and contributes to hot spot problems that may lead to breakdown of shaded modules. PSPV generates multiple peak, one global one and many other local peaks. Many efficient, accurate and reliable maximum power point tracker (MPPT) techniques are used to track the global peak instead of local peaks. The proposed technique is not limited to global peak tracking, but rather it is capable of tracking the sum of all peaks of the PV arrays using an interleaved boost converter (IBC). The proposed converter has been compared with the state of the art conventional control method that uses a conventional boost converter (CBC). The converters used in the two PSPV systems are interfaced with electric utility using a three-phase inverter. The simulation findings prove superiority of the PSPV with IBC compared to the one using CBC in terms of power quality, reliability, mismatch power loss, DC-link voltage stability, efficiency and flexibility. Also, IBC alleviates partial shading effects and extracts higher power compared to the one using CBC. The results have shown a remarkable increase in output generated power of a PSPV system for the three presented scenarios of partial shading by 61.6%, 30.3% and 13%, respectively, when CBC is replaced by IBC.
Study and Application of Intelligent Sliding Mode Control for Voltage Source Inverters
Authors: Chang En-Chih
Published: September 2018

In this paper, an intelligent sliding mode controlled voltage source inverter (VSI) is developed to achieve not only quick transient behavior, but satisfactory steady-state response. The presented approach combines the respective merits of a nonsingular fast terminal attractor (NFTA) as well as an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The NFTA allows no singularity and error states to be converged to the equilibrium within a finite time, while conventional sliding mode control (SMC) leads to long-term (infinite) convergent behavior. However, there is the likelihood of chattering or steady-state error occurring in NFTA due to the overestimation or underestimation of system uncertainty bound. The ANFIS with accurate estimation and the ease of implementation is employed in NFTA for suppressing the chatter or steady-state error so as to improve the system’s robustness against uncertain disturbances. Simulation results display that this described approach yields low distorted output wave shapes and quick transience in the presence of capacitor input rectifier loading as well as abrupt connection of linear loads. Experimental results conducted on a 1 kW VSI prototype with control algorithm implementation in Texas Instruments DSP (digital signal processor) support the theoretic analysis and reaffirm the robust performance of the developed VSI. Because the proposed VSI yields remarkable benefits over conventional terminal attractor VSIs on the basis of computational quickness and unsophisticated realization, the presented approach is a noteworthy referral to the designers of correlated VSI applications in future, such as DC (direct current) microgrids and AC (alternating current) microgrids, or even hybrid AC/DC microgrids.
Strategies for Climate-Smart Forest Management in Austria
Authors: Jandl Robert , Ledermann Thomas , Kindermann Georg , Freudenschuss Alexandra , Gschwantner Thomas , Weiss Peter
Published: September 2018

We simulated Austrian forests under different sustainable management scenarios. A reference scenario was compared to scenarios focusing on the provision of bioenergy, enhancing the delivery of wood products, and reduced harvesting rates. The standing stock of the stem biomass, carbon in stems, and the soil carbon pool were calculated for the period 2010–2100. We used the forest growth model Câldis and the soil carbon model Yasso07. The wood demand of all scenarios could be satisfied within the simulation period. The reference scenario led to a small decrease of the stem biomass. Scenarios aiming at a supply of more timber decreased the standing stock to a greater extent. Emphasizing the production of bioenergy was successful for several decades but ultimately exhausted the available resources for fuel wood. Lower harvesting rates reduced the standing stock of coniferous and increased the standing stock of deciduous forests. The soil carbon pool was marginally changed by different management strategies. We conclude that the production of long-living wood products is the preferred implementation of climate-smart forestry. The accumulation of carbon in the standing biomass is risky in the case of disturbances. The production of bioenergy is suitable as a byproduct of high value forest products.
Anxiety in Rural Chinese Children and Adolescents: Comparisons across Provinces and among Subgroups
Authors: Liu Hongyan , Shi Yaojiang , Auden Emma , Rozelle Scott
Published: September 2018

China’s competitive education system has produced notably high learning outcomes, but they may be costly. One potential cost is high levels of anxiety. China has launched several initiatives aimed at improving student mental health. However, little is known about how effective these programs and policies are. The goal of this paper was to examine anxiety levels among children and adolescents in rural China, and to identify which subpopulations were particularly vulnerable to anxiety. Data were aggregated from 10 different school-level surveys conducted in rural areas of five provinces between 2008 and 2015. In total, 50,361 students were evaluated using the 100-item, nine-subcategory Mental Health Test (a variation of the Children’s Manifest Anxiety Scale). Seven percent of students were at risk for overall anxiety. However, over half of students were at risk for at least one subcategory of anxiety. Students at higher risk for anxiety included students from poorer counties and families, female students, secondary school students, and students with lower levels of academic performance. Many students in rural China are at risk for anxiety, and certain student subpopulations are particularly vulnerable. We suggest that China’s government review and update student mental health programs and policies.
Seroprevalence and Determinants Associated with Mumps Antibodies after 20 Years of MMR Vaccination in Urban Area of Shanghai, China
Authors: Pang Hong , Zhou Yibiao , Zhao Wensui , Jiang Qingwu
Published: September 2018

A resurgence of the mumps epidemic in highly vaccinated populations has occurred in recent years in many countries. This study aimed to evaluate the seroprevalence to mumps in urban areas of Shanghai, where a measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination had been implemented for 20 years. Mumps IgG antibodies were tested in 2662 residual sera from all ages in an urban area of Shanghai. A linear regression method was performed to assess the persistence of mumps antibodies after MMR vaccination. A logistic regression method was used to analyze the variables associated with seronegative sera. The overall age- and gender-adjusted seroprevalence of mumps antibodies reached 90% (95% CI: 90.0–90.2). The antibody concentration declined significantly in the first eight years after the second dose of MMR. The multivariate analysis identified that males, age groups, especially 17–19 years and no dose of vaccination, as well as one dose of vaccination, as factors associated with an increased risk of seronegative sera. A high seroprevalence to mumps has been achieved in the urban areas of Shanghai. A declining antibody level of mumps after the second dose of MMR may put a potential risk of recurrence of mumps. The two-dose MMR vaccine schedule is superior to one-dose schedule for mumps control.
Epidural Analgesia and Neonatal Morbidity: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Martínez Antonio Hernández , Almagro Julián Javier Rodríguez , García-Suelto María Moreno-Cid , Barrajon María Ureña , Alarcón Milagros Molina , Gómez-Salgado Juan
Published: September 2018

(1) Background: Epidural analgesia (EA), at the present time, is one of the most effective methods to reduce labor pain. In recent years its use has increased, being used between 20–70% of all deliveries; (2) Methods: Historical cohort on a total of 2947 deliveries during the years 2012–2016 at the “Mancha-Centro Hospital” of Alcázar de San Juan. The main outcome variables were four neonatal morbidity (NM) criteria: umbilical artery pH of <7.10, Apgar score at 5 min < 7, need for advanced resuscitation and composite morbidity. We used the multivariate analysis to control confounding bias. (3) Results: No statistical relationship between EA and the second stage of labor duration with none of the four criteria of NM used (p > 0.005). However, the type of delivery was associated with three criteria (pH, resuscitation, and composite morbidity). The instrumental delivery presented an OR of pH < 7.10 of 2.68 95% CI [1.15, 6.27], an OR of advanced resuscitation of 2.44 95% CI [1.17, 5.08] and OR of composite morbidity of 2.86 95% CI [1.59, 5.12]; (4) Conclusions: The EA and the second stage of labor duration are not related to the NM. While the instrumental delivery doubles the risk of NM compared to the normal vaginal delivery.
The Multifaceted Role of Pectin Methylesterase Inhibitors (PMEIs)
Authors: Wormit Alexandra , Usadel Björn
Published: September 2018

Plant cell walls are complex and dynamic structures that play important roles in growth and development, as well as in response to stresses. Pectin is a major polysaccharide of cell walls rich in galacturonic acid (GalA). Homogalacturonan (HG) is considered the most abundant pectic polymer in plant cell walls and is partially methylesterified at the C6 atom of galacturonic acid. Its degree (and pattern) of methylation (DM) has been shown to affect biomechanical properties of the cell wall by making pectin susceptible for enzymatic de-polymerization and enabling gel formation. Pectin methylesterases (PMEs) catalyze the removal of methyl-groups from the HG backbone and their activity is modulated by a family of proteinaceous inhibitors known as pectin methylesterase inhibitors (PMEIs). As such, the interplay between PME and PMEI can be considered as a determinant of cell adhesion, cell wall porosity and elasticity, as well as a source of signaling molecules released upon cell wall stress. This review aims to highlight recent updates in our understanding of the PMEI gene family, their regulation and structure, interaction with PMEs, as well as their function in response to stress and during development.
HIC1 and RassF1A Methylation Attenuates Tubulin Expression and Cell Stiffness in Cancer
Authors: Chen Chih-Cheng , He Bo-Ching , Chen Yao-Li , Lee Kuan-Der , Tung Chun-Hsin , Hsu Chia-Chen , Lin Ping-Yi , Chu Pei-Yi , Leu Yu-Wei , Fu Wei-En , Hsiao Shu-Huei
Published: September 2018

Cell stiffness is a potential biomarker for monitoring cellular transformation, metastasis, and drug resistance development. Environmental factors relayed into the cell may result in formation of inheritable markers (e.g., DNA methylation), which provide selectable advantages (e.g., tumor development-favoring changes in cell stiffness). We previously demonstrated that targeted methylation of two tumor suppressor genes, hypermethylated in cancer 1 (HIC1) and Ras-association domain family member 1A (RassF1A), transformed mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Here, transformation-associated cytoskeleton and cell stiffness changes were evaluated. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to detect cell stiffness, and immunostaining was used to measure cytoskeleton expression and distribution in cultured cells as well as in vivo. HIC1 and RassF1A methylation (me_HR)-transformed MSCs developed into tumors that clonally expanded in vivo. In me_HR-transformed MSCs, cell stiffness was lost, tubulin expression decreased, and F-actin was disorganized; DNA methylation inhibitor treatment suppressed their tumor progression, but did not fully restore their F-actin organization and stiffness. Thus, me_HR-induced cell transformation was accompanied by the loss of cellular stiffness, suggesting that somatic epigenetic changes provide inheritable selection markers during tumor propagation, but inhibition of oncogenic aberrant DNA methylation cannot restore cellular stiffness fully. Therefore, cell stiffness is a candidate biomarker for cells’ physiological status.
Exposure of Breast and Lung Cancer Cells to a Novel Estrone Analog Prior to Radiation Enhances Bcl-2-Mediated Cell Death
Authors: Nolte Elsie M. , Joubert Anna M. , Lakier Roy , Van Rensburg Ado , Mercier Anne E.
Published: September 2018

Following exposure of cells to gamma-radiation, a cascade of intracellular consequences may be observed in a semitemporal manner. This includes deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation initially, with consequent signaling for DNA repair and facilitative regulation of the cell cycle. Failure to rectify the damage or ROS levels leads to induction of senescence or apoptosis. 2-Ethyl-3-O-sulfamoyl-estra-1,3,5(10),15-tetraen-17-ol (ESE-15-ol), a 2-methoxyestradiole analog designed in silico for superior pharmacokinetics, was investigated for its potential to enhance apoptotic signaling and decrease the long-term survival of cells exposed to radiation. Sequential early intracellular effects within radiation-treated MCF-7 breast- and A549 lung cancer cells pre-exposed to low-dose ESE-15-ol were investigated using various flow cytometric protocols, spectrophotometry, and microscopy. Long-term cellular survival and proliferation was examined using clonogenic studies, which demonstrated a significant decrease in the presensitized cells. Combination-treated cells exhibited increased superoxide formation, and decreased Bcl-2 expression and -phosphorylation. Induction of apoptosis and elevation of the sub-G1 phase was evident in the pre-exposed MCF-7 cells, although only minimally in the A549 cells at 48-h. These results indicate that low-dose ESE-15-ol may increase tumor response to radiation. Future studies will investigate the effect of ESE-15-ol pre-exposure on radiation-induced DNA damage and repair mechanisms.
Eradicating Suicide at Its Roots: Preclinical Bases and Clinical Evidence of the Efficacy of Ketamine in the Treatment of Suicidal Behaviors
Authors: De Berardis Domenico , Fornaro Michele , Valchera Alessandro , Cavuto Marilde , Perna Giampaolo , Di Nicola Marco , Serafini Gianluca , Carano Alessandro , Pompili Maurizio , Vellante Federica , Orsolini Laura , Fiengo Annastasia , Ventriglio Antonio , Yong-Ku Kim , Martinotti Giovanni , Di Giannantonio Massimo , Tomasetti Carmine
Published: September 2018

Despite the continuous advancement in neurosciences as well as in the knowledge of human behaviors pathophysiology, currently suicide represents a puzzling challenge. The World Health Organization (WHO) has established that one million people die by suicide every year, with the impressive daily rate of a suicide every 40 s. The weightiest concern about suicidal behavior is how difficult it is for healthcare professionals to predict. However, recent evidence in genomic studies has pointed out the essential role that genetics could play in influencing person’s suicide risk. Combining genomic and clinical risk assessment approaches, some studies have identified a number of biomarkers for suicidal ideation, which are involved in neural connectivity, neural activity, mood, as well as in immune and inflammatory response, such as the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling. This interesting discovery provides the neurobiological bases for the use of drugs that impact these specific signaling pathways in the treatment of suicidality, such as ketamine. Ketamine, an N-methyl-d-aspartate glutamate (NMDA) antagonist agent, has recently hit the headlines because of its rapid antidepressant and concurrent anti-suicidal action. Here we review the preclinical and clinical evidence that lay the foundations of the efficacy of ketamine in the treatment of suicidal ideation in mood disorders, thereby also approaching the essential question of the understanding of neurobiological processes of suicide and the potential therapeutics.