bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Resource Development in Tourism Industry in India: A Case Study of Air India Ltd., New Delhi
Authors: Khan Nafees A.
Published: September 2016

He purpose of Human Resource Development is to improve the capacity of the human resource through learning and performance at the individual, process and organizational levels. By applying a well-ordered and professional HRD approach to work in the protected areas ﬁeld, the skills, knowledge and attitudes of park personnel will be enriched and this overall quality of work performed will improve. There are a number of problems and constraints, which concern the human resource development in the Tourism Industry, viz., shortage of qualiﬁed manpower; shortage of tourism training infrastructure and qualiﬁed trainers; working conditions in the Tourism Industry; and lack of proper strategies and policies for human resource development. The present study is an attempt to analyze the HRD initiatives of Tourism Industry with special reference to Air India Ltd. to enhance and sharpen the capabilities of its employees. The study also identiﬁes the need of the Air India to incorporate the spirit of HRD in day to day functioning by utilizing the all possible human resource systems and mechanism to the organization.
Del turismo contemplativo al turismo activo
Authors: Machado Chaviano Esther Lidia , Hernández Aro Yanet
Published: September 2016

La evolución en la forma de consumo ha marcado el nacimiento de una nueva era denominada como Economía y Sociedad de la experiencia, lo cual provoca cambios en la forma de gestionar las empresas, transformando el enfoque de marketing tradicional, hacia un marketing colaborativo o inverso. El perfil y las preferencias del turista también han variado, exigiendo nuevas ideas, siendo éstas a su medida, el turista va en busca de su propia experiencia, cambiado del hecho de viajar para presenciar, a la idea de viajar para efectuar algo. Se plantea entonces un reto para los promotores del viaje, éstos tendrán que crear productos que permitan realizar actividades, faciliten la participación activa del turista consumidor en la elaboración de la experiencia de que disfruta. Por tanto, la clave radica en desarrollar al máximo aquellas ventajas competitivas de un destino o empresa, integrando los diversos atractivos turísticos, ya sean patrimonio monumental, cultural y natural, para conformar una oferta que permita satisfacer necesidades y deseos de los consumidores. 
Impacto ambiental del turismo en áreas naturales protegidas; procedimiento metodológico para el análisis en el Parque Estatal El Ocotal, México
Authors: Pérez Ramírez Carlos , Zizumbo Villarreal Lilia , González Vera Miguel
Published: September 2016

En la actualidad, la actividad turística es promovida ampliamente en las áreas naturales protegidas, como una importante estrategia para el aprovechamiento de los recursos naturales, sustentada en el argumento del limitado impacto ambiental generado en el entorno natural. No obstante, la excesiva acumulación del número de visitantes en determinadas temporadas al año, así como la realización de actividades recreativas sin control alguno en determinados espacios naturales, ha propiciado la generación de significativos impactos ambientales. Tal es el caso del Parque Estatal El Ocotal (PEEO), ubicado en el Municipio de Timilpan, Estado de México, el cual desde su creación ha contemplado el desarrollo de las actividades turísticas como eje del aprovechamiento de los recursos, sin tomar en cuenta medidas enfocadas a la reducción de las implicaciones generadas. De esta forma, la investigación tuvo como principal objetivo, analizar las repercusiones ambientales de la actividad turística en el PEEO, con la finalidad de proponer una serie de medidas de mitigación sobre las características negativas, que permitan conservar las condiciones ambientales del lugar, así como potencializar los aspectos positivos que aseguren el adecuado desarrollo de la actividad turística. Para alcanzar dicho objetivo se emplearon dos instrumentos de evaluación: lista de verificación y matriz cruzada de impacto ambiental aplicada al turismo.
CICULATORY LEVELS OF RETINOL-BINDING PROTEIN 4 IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES, COMPLICATED BY NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE
Authors: Tyzhnenko T. V. , Karachentsev Y. I. , Kravchun N. A. , Poltorak V. V. , Gorshunska M. Y. , Jаnsen E. , Krasova N. S. , Leshchenko Zh. A. , Gladkih A. I. , Chernyavskaya I. V. , Cherniaieva A. A. , Opaleiko Y. A. , Pochernyayev A. K. , Zavadska N. V.
Published: September 2016

It was determined levels of retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) in the blood of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or its absence. In patients with type 2 diabetes was verified a significant increase of circulating levels of RBP4, the severity of which was significantly higher in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, as well as their direct correlation with the presence of complications. The data obtained justify the use of indicators of circulatory levels of RBP4 as a new marker of the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes and the selection of anti-diabetic therapy.
Національні рекомендації «Гостре пошкодження нирок: основні принципи діагностики, профілактики і терапії (2015 р.)» Частина II
Authors: Smirnov A.V. , Dobronravov V.A.
Published: September 2016

Розглянуті основні проблеми гострого пошко­дження нирок (ГПН). Обґрунтована необхідність впровадження концепції ГПН у практику вітчизняної охорони здоров’я. Наведені конкретні рекомендації з діагностики, моніторингу, профілактики та терапії цього небезпечного стану.
Циліопатії, роль Wnt-сигнального шляху в перебігу гострого (постінфекційного) гломерулонефриту: огляд літератури та власне спостереження
Authors: Diadyk O.O. , Nekrasova L.H. , Ivanova M.D.
Published: September 2016

Первинні війки — це субклітинні органели, що є похідними цитоплазматичної мембрани клітин майже будь-якого типу. Вони відіграють роль у сприйнятті та передачі механічних та хімічних сигналів із поверхні клітин, орієнтації площини поділу клітини, органогенезі тощо. Зазначені функції реалізуються завдяки великій кількості білків, рецепторів, сигнальних шляхів. Мутації та дерегуляція даних компонентів можуть мати широкий спектр фенотипових наслідків, що об’єднуються спільною назвою — циліопатії, до яких, зокрема, належать і кістозні ураження паренхіми нирок. Серед інших сигнальних каскадів, пов’язаних з первинними війками, Wnt-сигнальний шлях є відповідальним за нефрогенез та відповідь нирок на ушкоджуючі фактори. Описано клінічний випадок гострого (постінфекційного) гломерулонефриту в пацієнта Х., 20 років, із кістозним розширенням ниркових канальців, що було діагностовано гістологічно. У поданій статті, базуючись на останніх дослідженнях у галузі циліопатій, ми припускаємо ймовірні молекулярні механізми, відповідальні як за формування кіст у канальцевій системі нирок, так і за прогресуючий фатальний перебіг гломерулонефриту в даному випадку.
SYNTHESIS OF SOME NOVEL TRIAZOLE DERIVATIVES AS SCHIFF BASES AND THEIR ANTIMICROBIAL EVALUATION
Authors: Sharma Vaibhav , Mehta Dinesh Kumar , Das Rina , Kaur Preet Kawal
Published: September 2016

Objective: This work involves the synthesis of some novel schiff base derivatives synthesized from p-amino benzoic acid.

Methods: A series of 4-[4-(arylidene amino-5-mercapto-4H-[1, 2, 4] triazol-3-yl]-benzoic acid complexes were synthesized from 4-(4-amino-5-mercapto-4H-[1, 2, 4] triazol-3-yl)-benzoic acid by reaction with different aromatic aldehydes. All the synthesized schiff base derivatives were characterized by using analytical techniques (FT-IR, 1H NMR and Mass spectroscopy). The title compounds were evaluated for antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and anti-fungal activity against (Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger).

Results: Schiff base derivatives 5(a-h) were synthesized in good yields and showed antimicrobial activity, among them, compounds 5c, 5d, 5e and 5f were significantly active against gram positive, gram negative bacterial and fungal strains and rest of compounds showed moderate to weak activity.

Conclusion: The Schiff base obtained showed variation in the antimicrobial and antifungal activity, based on the structure of the substituted aromatic aldehydes.
ESSENTIAL OIL COMPOSITION OF ARTEMISIA VULGARIS GROWN IN EGYPT
Authors: H. A. Said-al Ahl Hussein , Hussein Mohamed S. , Tkachenko Kirill G. , Nkomo Mpumelelo , Mudau Fhatuwani N.
Published: September 2016

Objective: The objective of this research was to evaluate the significance of the plant's origin and to assess the essential oil composition of Artemisia vulgaris grown in Egypt simultaneously evaluating the effect of environmental conditions on essential oil composition.

Methods: Seeds were planted and the essential oils extracted, using hydrodistillation, from the plants that grew. The resulting essential oils were examined, using gas chromatography linked to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Thus also evaluating the essential oil chemotype “fingerprint” in A. vulgaris

Results:  The study identified: the most abundant compounds being camphor, 3, 5-dimethylcyclohexane, germacrene D, cubebene, yomogi alcohol, artemisia alcohol, caryophyllene, while is lower concentrations thujopsene, muurolene, borneol, terpinen-4-ol, valencene, elemene and humulene. Despite the origins of the seeds, the chemical profile was very similar to those of plants grown in Egypt, thus suggesting essential oil composition was significantly influenced by the environmental conditions.

Conclusion: Based on the present study, It is suggested that seed origin may play a less significant part if the seed is planted in an environment different to that of its origin, this study proved that and favors the plant-environment interaction to influence the secondary metabolite composition. This supports that plant metabolite profiles are greatly affected by the environment they are grown in. 
RADICAL SCAVENGING AND DISINFECTANT EFFECT OF ESSENTIAL OIL FROM MOROCCAN MENTHA PULEGIUM
Authors: Chraibi Marwa , Fikri Benbrahim Kawtar , Ou-yahyia Douâae , Balouiri Mounyr , Farah Abdellah
Published: September 2016

Objective: As part of the valorization of medicinal and aromatic plants in Morocco, this study aims to investigate the chemical composition, the antimicrobial and the antioxidant activities of Mentha pulegium essential oil.

Methods: Essential oil of M. pulegium from Oued Laou region (Morocco) was screened for its antimicrobial activity against seven bacteria and two fungi using broth microdilution method. The radical scavenging effect was used to assess in vitro antioxidant capacity of this oil.

Results: The tested essential oil exhibited strong inhibitory effect against all tested microorganisms with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 0.003% to 1% (v/v) except for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, the studied essential oil exhibited radical scavenging power with the half maximal inhibitory concentration of 2 mg/ml.

Conclusion: These findings showed that the studied essential oil has both an antimicrobial and antioxidant potential, which is very rare. Thus, it reinforces its use as an effective, eco-friendly preservative agent in food and cosmetic field.

 
Protective effect of honokiol against LPS-induced lung injury via attenuation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and oxidative stress
Authors: Li Hong-Bo , Wang Lin , Gu Zheng-Tao , He Xuan , Su Lei
Published: September 2016

Despite high morbidity and mortality, no effective options are available for
the treatment of acute lung injury (ALI). Therefore, the present study
investigated the protective effect of honokiol (HK) on ALI via determination
of its effect on several key biomarkers. The results of the study showed that
HK significantly inhibited the infiltration of neutrophils and protein
leakage induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (p<0.05). The pretreatment with
HK considerably boosted the endogenous antioxidant defense system to
counteract the oxidative stress in LPS-induced ALI by elevating the levels of
superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH). Moreover,
the activity of toxic mediators, such as myeloperoxidase (MPO), and lipid
peroxidation were significantly inhibited upon treatment with HK. In order to
examine the mechanism of action of HK, its effect was quantified using matrix
metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF)
by gelatin zymography. Pretreatment with HK considerably suppressed the
activation of MMP-9 in a concentration-dependent manner. These findings
suggest that HK protects from lung injury via inhibition of MMP-9, and by
enhancing the activity of the endogenous antioxidant defense system.
Primary reconstruction of neck defect after excision of metastatic melanoma of unknown primary site with regional pectoral myocutaneous flap
Authors: Velickov Asen , Kovacevic Predrag , Velickov Aleksandra , Ghanaati Shahram
Published: September 2016

Introduction. Metastatic melanoma of unknown primary (MMUP) is already a well
described oncologic phenomenon in the literature, whereas tissue defects?
reconstructions on the neck region always present a challenge for the
reconstructive surgeon. Two cases of giant metastatic, skin infiltrative neck
tumor masses are presented. In both cases MMUP was diagnosed. Both
intraoperative tissue defects were reconstructed using pectoralis major (PM)
regional flap. Outline of cases. The first patient was admitted with giant
tumor mass on the right side of the neck. The fast growing mass appeared two
months prior to the admission. Thorough examination showed no signs of
primary tumor. Removal surgery was performed and the defect was reconstructed
using the PM musculocutaneous flap. The second patient was admitted with
large tumor mass on the left side of the neck. Thorough examination displayed
no signs of any primary tumor. After the excision, the tumor mass and
subsequent neck dissection, reconstruction followed, using the pedicled PM
muscle flap and partial thickness skin transplants. There were no major
complications in either case. The histopathological examinations presented
metastatic melanoma diagnoses. Conclusion. Clinical outcome of MMUP described
in literature is rather variable. Different studies have shown that prognosis
in patients with MMUP is better than that in patients with diagnosed primary
melanoma with metastatic disease. Therefore, the best initial course of
action in those cases would be surgery, according to oncological principles,
if possible. Neck defects? reconstructions should fulfill both functional and
esthetic demands. Due to the reliability and low cost of the procedure, PM
regional flap presents a very good and trustworthy reconstruction modality.
Effect of Intracanal Irrigants on Bond Strength of Fiber Posts Cemented With a Self-adhesive Resin Cement
Authors: Barreto MS , Rosa RA , Seballos VG , Machado E , Valandro LF , Kaizer OB , Só MVR , Bier CAS
Published: September 2016

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of five intracanal irrigants on bond strength of fiber posts cemented with newer self-adhesive resin cement.

Methods:

A total of 60 extracted, single-rooted human premolars, sectioned at 14 mm, were prepared with the ProTaper Universal system with a size F3 instrument and filled with an F3 master cone and AH Plus. The root canal filling was partially removed, leaving 4 mm of apical gutta-percha. Specimens were randomly assigned to five groups (n=12), according to the solution used for dentin surface treatment before fiber post cementation, as follows: EDTA 17% (EDTA); QMix (QM); SmearClear (SC); 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), and 0.9% saline solution (SS). Ultrasonic activation was performed (three times, 20 seconds each), and root canals were dried with paper points. Fiber posts were cemented with RelyX U200. In one specimen per group, rhodamine B dye was mixed with RelyX U200 to provide adequate fluorescence for confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) assessment. Specimens were transversally sectioned and three slices were obtained, one for each root third. Next, a push-out test was performed. A stereomicroscope and CLSM were used to analyze the failure modes and to illustrate the pattern of infiltration of RelyX U200 into dentinal tubules, respectively. Bond strength means were calculated, and analysis of variance and Bonferroni tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

SS showed the highest mean bond strength values (11.5±5.3), superior to QM (5.1±3.1) and SC (5.1±3.3). NaOCl presented intermediary bond strength values (9.7±5.0), similar to EDTA (7.7±2.9) and SS. QM and SC showed the lowest mean bond strength (p<0.05). Adhesive failures between cement/dentin were predominant (53.9%).

Conclusion:

SS and NaOCl associated with ultrasonic activation seem to be adequate solutions for root canal cleaning before fiber post cementation with self-adhesive resin cement, whereas chelating solutions, such as EDTA, QM, and SC, cause a decrease in bond strength.
Signal Timing for Diverging Diamond Interchanges: Fundamentals, Concepts, and Recommended Applications
Authors: Cunningham Christopher , Schroeder Bastian J. , Phillips Stacie , Urbanik Thomas , Warchol Shannon , Tanaka Alison
Published: September 2016

A diverging diamond interchange (DDI) is an innovative interchange design that is being used with increasing frequency in the United States because of the ability to use existing right-of-way and infrastructure frequently. This paper documents the state of the practice in DDI signal phasing with principles established in the Signal Timing Manual, namely, that it uses consistent phase numbering in a logical format to describe each of the phasing concepts being considered and discussed in this paper. Although some literature exists on several methods of signal phasing for DDIs, inconsistency in the reporting leaves practitioners scratching their heads when attempting to decipher what phasing scheme to use. In response, three fundamental phasing schemes are presented, one each for volume patterns with two, three, and four critical movements. Each scheme is described with a consistent naming convention, and, when possible, each is manipulated to provide varying coordination strategies. In addition, concepts such as use of actuation and barriers to improve coordination are described, and methods for reducing lost time are introduced. Other supplemental information related to preemption and pedestrians is discussed briefly. In conclusion, practitioners are given some basic guidance on when one phasing scheme may be more appropriate than another.
Genetic Algorithm and Regression-Based Model for Analyzing Fare Payment Structure and Transit Dwell Time
Authors: Fayyaz S. Kiavash , Liu Xiaoyue (Cathy) , Porter Richard J.
Published: September 2016

The time that buses spend at stops, also called dwell time (DT), has a direct effect on transit service reliability and operational efficiency. A practical, coherent, and quantitative DT modeling approach is needed to identify the factors that contribute most to DT. Commonly used methods for studying DT to date involve manually collected field data or the use of automatic sensors to gather information on factors influencing DT. These approaches have often suffered from limited sample sizes or the inability to provide information on nonelectronic fare payment methods (e.g., cash payment and prepaid passes), which can contribute significantly to DT. To address these gaps, this study developed a genetic algorithm and regression-based modeling approach first to estimate transit fare transactions that do not have electronic records and then to quantify the effect of a number of factors on DT. Integrating information from multiple data sources, the combined approach of optimization and regression analysis offers a data-driven evaluation of existing fare payment structures and their individual effects on DT. With the 35M bus rapid transit line operated by the Utah Transit Authority as a case study, the method demonstrates the robustness and strong prediction power in DT modeling. Results quantify the magnitude of advantages of offboard over onboard fare collections and offer some insights into the operational effects of station placement, design, and the built environment. The modeling approach is transferable to any transit route or system that is equipped with automatic passenger counters. The fare payment analysis can assist transit agencies with service optimization and performance assessments.
Pothole Detection Based on the Features of Intensity and Motion
Authors: Jo Youngtae , Ryu Seung-Ki , Kim Young-Ro
Published: September 2016

Damage to road surfaces in the form of cracks and potholes increases over time and is compounded by poor maintenance systems. Potholes in particular can cause serious problems, including flat tires, damaged wheels, and car accidents. In a previous study, a pothole detection algorithm that used features of two-dimensional images to detect potholes was developed accurately. However, the algorithm yielded wrong detection in the case of similar objects, such as patches, stains, and shades. In particular, complicated shapes and random variations of similar objects led to misdetection. In this study, a pothole detection algorithm is proposed; it uses motion and the intensity of features to distinguish potholes accurately from similar objects. The motion feature is the source of primary information in the proposed algorithm and provides clear and noise-tolerant data for the extraction of potholes from the background region. The proposed algorithm consists of two steps of segmentation and decision and is much simpler than the authors’ previous method. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms prevalent pothole detection algorithms as well as the algorithm from the previous study.
Integrating Global Navigation Satellite System and Road-Marking Detection for Vehicle Localization in Urban Traffic
Authors: Gu Yanlei , Hsu Li-Ta , Bao Jiali , Kamijo Shunsuke
Published: September 2016

This paper presents an accurate vehicle self-localization system for autonomous driving. The developed system integrates multiple onboard sensors, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver, an inertial sensor, a speedometer, and an onboard monocular camera to achieve lane-level performance in an urban environment. GNSS positioning suffers from the effects of multipath and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) propagation in urban canyons. To reduce the effects of multipath and NLOS propagation, this paper proposes using an innovative differential GNSS positioning technique with the aid of a three-dimensional building map. The road marking on the road surface provides visual information for driving. Recognition of road markings could be a way for localization when the position of the road marking is available. This research used the recognition of lane markings and stop-line markings to reduce further the positioning error. The multiple-lane detection was developed for improving the positioning error along the lateral direction. Stop-line recognition was used for optimizing the longitudinal position around intersections. The developed system was tested in an urban environment. Results demonstrate that the proposed method can provide submeter accuracy with respect to the positioning error mean and a 95% correct lane rate.
Giant Left Atrium in a case of Mitral stenosis with LA thrombus: A Case Report
Authors: Ahmad Jubayer , Rahman Md Mokhlesur , Saha Heemel , Aftabuddin Md , Adhikary Asit Baran
Published: September 2016

A 52 year-old male patient of severe MS with mild MR with AF with a giant left atrium (LA size 70 mm) and history of CMC presented with symptoms. Giant left atrium is a condition characterized by huge enlargement of the left atrium with a diameter exceeding 65mm. It is most commonly associated with long standing rheumatic mitral valve disease. The patient underwent successful mitral valve replacement and removal of LA thrombus and discharged from hospital with adviceCardiovasc. j. 2016; 9(1): 73-74
The Distribution of Abo and Rhesus Blood Groups Among Blood Donor Attending Transfusion Medicine Department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital in 2014
Authors: Karim Shanaz , Hoque Md Mazharul , Hoque Ehteshamul , Begum Hussne Ara , Rahman Syeda Masooma , Shah Tazin Afroze , Hossain Syed Zakir
Published: September 2016

Objective: This study was aimed to identify the distribution patterns of ABO and Rh-D blood group among the blood donor attending at transfusion medicine department DMCHin order to promote social awareness and safe blood transfusion among the population.Method: It was a cross sectional study conducted in the Department of Transfusion Medicine, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, from January to December 2014. After proper ethical consideration, a total of 39,512 blood donors were included in this study. They were selected irrespective of age and sex by systematic random sampling. ABO and Rh-D blood groups were determined by the antigen antibody agglutination test in our blood bank by standard tile techniques.Results: Among 39,512 blood donors male blood donors were 31,602(79.98%), female blood donors were 7,910(20.01%).14,817(37.5%) blood donor were identified as having blood group B, while 12,565 (31.8%) were blood group O, 8614( 21.80%) and3516( 8.9% )were blood group A and AB respectively. Rh-D positive were 38,247(96.79%) and Rh-D negative were 1,265(3.2%).J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 24, No.1, April, 2015, Page 53-56
Towards TDDFT for Strongly Correlated Materials
Authors: Acharya Shree , Turkowski Volodymyr , Rahman Talat
Published: September 2016

We present some details of our recently-proposed Time-Dependent Density-Functional Theory (TDDFT) for strongly-correlated materials in which the exchange-correlation (XC) kernel is derived from the charge susceptibility obtained using Dynamical Mean-Field Theory (the TDDFT + DMFT approach). We proceed with deriving the expression for the XC kernel for the one-band Hubbard model by solving DMFT equations via two approaches, the Hirsch–Fye Quantum Monte Carlo (HF-QMC) and an approximate low-cost perturbation theory approach, and demonstrate that the latter gives results that are comparable to the exact HF-QMC solution. Furthermore, through a variety of applications, we propose a simple analytical formula for the XC kernel. Additionally, we use the exact and approximate kernels to examine the nonhomogeneous ultrafast response of two systems: a one-band Hubbard model and a Mott insulator YTiO3. We show that the frequency dependence of the kernel, i.e., memory effects, is important for dynamics at the femtosecond timescale. We also conclude that strong correlations lead to the presence of beats in the time-dependent electric conductivity in YTiO3, a feature that could be tested experimentally and that could help validate the few approximations used in our formulation. We conclude by proposing an algorithm for the generalization of the theory to non-linear response.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Cytotoxic Activity of a Novel Eight-Coordinated Dinuclear Ca(II)-Schiff Base Complex
Authors: Tai Xi-Shi , Meng Qing-Guo , Liu Li-Li
Published: September 2016

A novel eight-coordinated dinuclear Ca(II) complex, [Ca2(L)2(H2O)10]·H2O (L = 4-formylbenzene-1,3-disulfonate-3-pyridinecarboxylic hydrazone) (1), was synthesized by the reaction of 3-pyridinecarboxylic hydrazide, disodium 4-formylbenzene-1,3-disulfonate, and Ca(ClO4)2·4H2O in ethanol-water solution (v:v = 3:1) at 50 °C. Complex 1 was characterized by elemental analysis, IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and X-ray single crystal diffraction analysis. Dinuclear Ca(II) complex 1 belongs to triclinic, space group P-1 with a = 7.186(3) Å, b = 11.978(5) Å, c = 12.263(5) Å, α = 90.318(5)°, β = 91.922(5)°, γ = 96.797(5)°, V = 1047.5(8) Å3, Z = 1, Dc = 1.685 mg·m−3, μ = 0.572 mm−1, F(000) = 552, and final R1 = 0.0308, ωR2 = 0.0770. Dinuclear Ca(II) molecules form a 1D chained structure by π–π stacking interaction. The 1D chains form a 3D framework structure by the π–π stacking interaction and hydrogen bonds. The in vitro cytotoxic activity activity of 1 against HL-60 and MLTC-1 was also investigated.
Slow Shift—Developing Provisions for Talented Students in Scandinavian Higher Education
Authors: Wolfensberger Marca , Hogenstijn Maarten
Published: September 2016

For decades, Scandinavian culture effectively prohibited the development of special provisions for talented students in higher education. However, in recent years, a cultural shift has gradually made more room for excellence and talent development in the national discourses. This paper analyzes the climate for talent development in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Following a first inventory of honors programs in Scandinavian higher education in which the only programs were found in Denmark, 10 experts were interviewed to analyze their national situation and reflect on the leading role of Denmark. In this country, external incentives, focus on quality, pioneers, and an open atmosphere were found to produce a culture more appreciative of excellence over the last decade. Starting from the Danish experience, the situation in Norway and Sweden is analyzed, showing that the combination of factors leading to change in Denmark is not yet present here. Lessons for other countries are highlighted, notably the importance of sharing information and exchanging knowledge at an international level.
Short-Term Price Forecasting Models Based on Artificial Neural Networks for Intraday Sessions in the Iberian Electricity Market
Authors: Monteiro Claudio , Ramirez-Rosado Ignacio , Fernandez-Jimenez L. , Conde Pedro
Published: September 2016

This paper presents novel intraday session models for price forecasts (ISMPF models) for hourly price forecasting in the six intraday sessions of the Iberian electricity market (MIBEL) and the analysis of mean absolute percentage errors (MAPEs) obtained with suitable combinations of their input variables in order to find the best ISMPF models. Comparisons of errors from different ISMPF models identified the most important variables for forecasting purposes. Similar analyses were applied to determine the best daily session models for price forecasts (DSMPF models) for the day-ahead price forecasting in the daily session of the MIBEL, considering as input variables extensive hourly time series records of recent prices, power demands and power generations in the previous day, forecasts of demand, wind power generation and weather for the day-ahead, and chronological variables. ISMPF models include the input variables of DSMPF models as well as the daily session prices and prices of preceding intraday sessions. The best ISMPF models achieved lower MAPEs for most of the intraday sessions compared to the error of the best DSMPF model; furthermore, such DSMPF error was very close to the lowest limit error for the daily session. The best ISMPF models can be useful for MIBEL agents of the electricity intraday market and the electric energy industry.
Updating Road Networks by Local Renewal from GPS Trajectories
Authors: Wu Tao , Xiang Longgang , Gong Jianya
Published: September 2016

The long production cycle and huge cost of collecting road network data often leave the data lagging behind the latest real conditions. However, this situation is rapidly changing as the positioning techniques ubiquitously used in mobile devices are gradually being implemented in road network research and applications. Currently, the predominant approaches infer road networks from mobile location information (e.g., GPS trajectory data) directly using various extracting algorithms, which leads to expensive consumption of computational resources in the case of large-scale areas. For this reason, we propose an alternative that renews road networks with a novel spiral strategy, including a hidden Markov model (HMM) for detecting potential problems in existing road network data and a method to update the data, on the local scale, by generating new road segments from trajectory data. The proposed approach reduces computation costs on roads with completed or updated information by updating problem road segments in the minimum range of the road network. We evaluated the performance of our proposals using GPS traces collected from taxies and OpenStreetMap (OSM) road networks covering urban areas of Wuhan City.
Linear and Non-Linear Optical Imaging of Cancer Cells with Silicon Nanoparticles
Authors: Tolstik Elen , Osminkina Liubov , Akimov Denis , Gongalsky Maksim , Kudryavtsev Andrew , Timoshenko Victor , Heintzmann Rainer , Sivakov Vladimir , Popp Jürgen
Published: September 2016

New approaches for visualisation of silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) in cancer cells are realised by means of the linear and nonlinear optics in vitro. Aqueous colloidal solutions of SiNPs with sizes of about 10–40 nm obtained by ultrasound grinding of silicon nanowires were introduced into breast cancer cells (MCF-7 cell line). Further, the time-varying nanoparticles enclosed in cell structures were visualised by high-resolution structured illumination microscopy (HR-SIM) and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Additionally, the nonlinear optical methods of two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) with infrared laser excitation were applied to study the localisation of SiNPs in cells. Advantages of the nonlinear methods, such as rapid imaging, which prevents cells from overheating and larger penetration depth compared to the single-photon excited HR-SIM, are discussed. The obtained results reveal new perspectives of the multimodal visualisation and precise detection of the uptake of biodegradable non-toxic SiNPs by cancer cells and they are discussed in view of future applications for the optical diagnostics of cancer tumours.
Adherence to Glaucoma Medications Over 12 Months in Two US Community Pharmacy Chains
Authors: Feehan Michael , Munger Mark , Cooper Daniel , Hess Kyle , Durante Richard , Jones Gregory , Montuoro Jaime , Morrison Margaux , Clegg Daniel , Crandall Alan , DeAngelis Margaret
Published: September 2016

This study determined the degree of adherence to medications for glaucoma among patients refilling prescriptions in community pharmacies. Methods: Data abstracted from the dispensing records for 3615 adult patients (18 years or older, predominantly over 45) receiving glaucoma medications from two retail pharmacy chains (64 stores in total) were analyzed. From a 24-month historic data capture period, the 12-month levels of adherence were determined using standard metrics, the proportion of days covered (PDC) and the medication possession ratio (MPR). The overall 12-month mean PDC was only 57%, and the mean MPR was 71%. Using a criterion by which 80% coverage was considered satisfactory adherence, only 30% had satisfactory overall 12-month PDC coverage, and only 37% had satisfactory overall 12-month MPR coverage. Refill adherence increased with age and was highest in the 65-and-older age group (p < 0.001). Differential adherence was found across medication classes, with the highest satisfactory coverage seen for those taking alpha2-adrenergic agonists (PDC = 36.0%; MPR = 47.6%) down to those taking direct cholinergic agonists (PDC = 25.0%; MPR = 31.2%) and combination products (PDC = 22.7%; MPR = 31.0%). Adherence to glaucoma medications in the community setting, as measured by pharmacy refill data, is very poor and represents a critical target for intervention. Community pharmacists are well positioned to monitor and reinforce adherence in this population.
Correction: Ono, S.; Lam, S.; Nagahara, M.; Hoon, D.S.B. Circulating microRNA Biomarkers as Liquid Biopsy for Cancer Patients: Pros and Cons of Current Assays. J. Clin. Med. 2015, 4, 1890–1907
Authors: Ono Shigeshi , Lam Stella , Nagahara Makoto , Hoon Dave
Published: September 2016

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [1]:[...]
A Saponification Method for Chlorophyll Removal from Microalgae Biomass as Oil Feedstock
Authors: Li Tao , Xu Jin , Wu Hualian , Wang Guanghua , Dai Shikun , Fan Jiewei , He Hui , Xiang Wenzhou
Published: September 2016

Microalgae oil is an optimal feedstock for nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and biodiesel production, but its high levels of chlorophyll limit its large-scale application. To date, few effective approaches have been developed to remove chlorophyll from microalgae oil. The main purpose of this study was to present a preprocessing method of algae oil feedstock (Scenedesmus) to remove chlorophyll by saponification. The results showed that 96% of chlorophyll in biomass was removed. High quality orange transparent oil could be extracted from the chlorophyll reduced biomass. Specifically, the proportion of neutral lipids and saturation levels of fatty acids increased, and the pigments composition became carotenoids-based. The critical parameters of chlorophyll reduced biodiesel conformed to the standards of the USA, China and EU. Sodium copper chlorophyllin could be prepared from the bleaching effluent. The results presented herein offer a useful pathway to improve the quality of microalgae oil and reduce the cost of microalgae biodiesel.
Antidermatophytic Activity of the Fruticose Lichen Usnea orientalis
Authors: Pathak Ashutosh , Upreti Dalip , Dikshit Anupam
Published: September 2016

In the present study, the new biological sources in the form of lichen Usnea orientalis Motyka was screened for its antidermatophytic potential. Six species of dermatophytes were chosen on the basis of their prevalence for antidermatophytic assays, and the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI)-recommended broth microdilution procedure was used to detect the efficacy of extract against dermatophytes. Thin layer chromatography of lichen extracts reveals the presence of two secondary metabolites viz. salazinic acid and usnic acid. U. orientalis extract exhibited promising antidermatophytic activity against all tested pathogens. Amongst all tested pathogens, Epidermophyton floccosum exhibited most susceptibility towards extract, whereas Trichophyton mentagrophytes exhibited the least susceptibility. Topical application of U. orientalis extract might be helpful in the cure of dermal infections.
The Effect of Ag Addition on the Enhancement of the Thermal and Mechanical Properties of CuZrAl Bulk Metallic Glasses
Authors: Chung Tsan-Man , Jian Sheng-Rui , Hsieh Pei-Ju
Published: September 2016

In this study, the thermal and mechanical properties of Cu50−xZr43Al7Agx (x = 0, 3, 4, 5, 6) bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) are investigated by using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), differential thermal analysis (DTA), a Vickers hardness tester, a material test system (MTS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cu50−xZr43Al7Agx (x = 0, 3, 4, 5, 6) BMGs were made by arc-melting and an injection casting process. The results revealed that the glass transition temperature (Tg) and the crystallization temperature (Tx) of CuZrAl alloy decreased with the Ag addition. Hence, the supercooled liquid region and γ of Cu45Zr43Al7Ag5 alloy increased to 76 K and 0.42, respectively. The thermal stability and glass forming ability of CuZrAlAg BMG alloys were enhanced by the microalloyed Ag content. The room temperature compressive fracture strength and strain measured of Cu47Zr43Al7Ag3 were about 2200 MPa and 2.1%, respectively. The distribution of vein patterns and the formation of nanocrystalline phases on the fracture surface of Cu47Zr43Al7Ag3 alloy can be observed by SEM and TEM to be significant, indicating a typical ductile fracture behavior and an improved plasticity of alloys with the addition of microalloyed Ag from 0 to 6 atom %.
Numerical Modeling of Cyclic Deformation in Bulk Metallic Glasses
Authors: Jiang Yunpeng
Published: September 2016

In this paper, a systematic numerical simulation was performed to elucidate the damage mechanisms in bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) subjected to the tension-compression cyclic loading, and then the relation between fatigue life, applied strain, and cycling frequency was therefore presented. The free volume was selected as an internal state variable to depict the shear-band nucleation, growth, and coalescence with the help of free volume theory, which was incorporated into the ABAQUS code via a user material subroutine UMAT. Under cyclic loading, the shear banding initiation mainly stems from the microstructure inhomogeneity in BMGs and, further, the effect of applied strain amplitude and cycling frequency was discussed. The present simulations will shed some light on the fatigue damage mechanisms and fatigue life evaluation of BMG structures.
Nanocrystalline β-Ta Coating Enhances the Longevity and Bioactivity of Medical Titanium Alloys
Authors: Liu Linlin , Xu Jiang , Jiang Shuyun
Published: September 2016

A β-Ta nanocrystalline coating was engineered onto a Ti-6Al-4V substrate using a double cathode glow discharge technique to improve the corrosion resistance and bioactivity of this biomedical alloy. The new coating has a thickness of ~40 μm and exhibits a compact and homogeneous structure composed of equiaxed β-Ta grains with an average grain size of ~22 nm, which is well adhered on the substrate. Nanoindentation and scratch tests indicated that the β-Ta coating exhibited high hardness combined with good resistance to contact damage. The electrochemical behavior of the new coating was systematically investigated in Hank’s physiological solution at 37 °C. The results showed that the β-Ta coating exhibited a superior corrosion resistance as compared to uncoated Ti-6Al-4V and commercially pure tantalum, which was attributed to a stable passive film formed on the β-Ta coating. The in vitro bioactivity was studied by evaluating the apatite-forming capability of the coating after seven days of immersion in Hank’s physiological solution. The β-Ta coating showed a higher apatite-forming ability than both uncoated Ti-6Al-4V and commercially pure Ta, suggesting that the β-Ta coating has the potential to enhance functionality and increase longevity of orthopaedic implants.
Three Pairs of New Isopentenyl Dibenzo[b,e]oxepinone Enantiomers from Talaromyces flavus, a Wetland Soil-Derived Fungus
Authors: Sun Tian-Yu , Kuang Run-Qiao , Chen Guo-Dong , Qin Sheng-Ying , Wang Chuan-Xi , Hu Dan , Wu Bing , Liu Xing-Zhong , Yao Xin-Sheng , Gao Hao
Published: September 2016

Three pairs of new isopentenyl dibenzo[b,e]oxepinone enantiomers, (+)-(5S)-arugosin K (1a), (−)-(5R)-arugosin K (1b), (+)-(5S)-arugosin L (2a), (−)-(5R)-arugosin L (2b), (+)-(5S)-arugosin M (3a), (−)-(5R)-arugosin M (3b), and a new isopentenyl dibenzo[b,e]oxepinone, arugosin N (4), were isolated from a wetland soil-derived fungus Talaromyces flavus, along with two known biosynthetically-related compounds 5 and 6. Among them, arugosin N (4) and 1,6,10-trihydroxy-8-methyl-2-(3-methyl-2-butenyl)-dibenz[b,e]oxepin-11(6H)-one (CAS: 160585-91-1, 5) were obtained as the tautomeric mixtures. The structures of isolated compounds were determined by detailed spectroscopic analysis. In addition, the absolute configurations of these three pairs of new enantiomers were determined by quantum chemical ECD calculations.
Boronic Acid Group: A Cumbersome False Negative Case in the Process of Drug Design
Authors: Katsamakas Sotirios , Papadopoulos Anastasios , Hadjipavlou-Litina Dimitra
Published: September 2016

Herein we present, an exhaustive docking analysis considering the case of autotaxin (ATX). HA155, a small molecule inhibitor of ATX, is co-crystallized. In order to further extract conclusions on the nature of the bond formed between the ligands and the amino acid residues of the active site, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were undertaken. However, docking does not provide reproducible results when screening boronic acid derivatives and their binding orientations to protein drug targets. Based on natural bond orbital (NBO) calculations, the formed bond between Ser/Thr residues is characterized more accurately as a polar covalent bond instead of a simple nonpolar covalent one. The presented results are acceptable and could be used in screening as an active negative filter for boron compounds. The hydroxyl groups of amino acids are bonded with the inhibitor’s boron atom, converting its hybridization to sp3.
Pharmacokinetic Comparison of Scutellarin and Paeoniflorin in Sham-Operated and Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury Rats after Intravenous Administration of Xin-Shao Formula
Authors: Li Yueting , Lu Yuan , Hu Jianchun , Gong Zipeng , Yang Wu , Wang Aimin , Zheng Jiang , Liu Ting , Chen Tingting , Hu Jie , Mi Ling , Li Yongjun , Lan Yanyu , Wang Yonglin
Published: September 2016

Xin-Shao formula is a folk remedy widely used in China to prevent and cure stroke. Cerebral ischemic reperfusion (I/R) injury often takes place during the treatment of stroke. Information about the pharmacokinetic behavior of the remedy under cerebral I/R injury conditions is lacking. The present study aimed to compare the pharmacokinetic properties of scutellarin and paeoniflorin, two major bioactive components of Xin-Shao formula, under physiological state in cerebral I/R injury rats. Neurobehavioral dysfunction was evaluated and cerebral infarcted volume was measured in middle cerebral artery occlusion I/R injury (MCAO) rats. Plasma samples were collected at various time points after a single dose (intravenous, i.v.) of Xin-Shao formula. The levels of plasma scutellarin and paeoniflorin at the designed time points were determined by a UPLC-MS/MS method, and drug concentration versus time plots were constructed to estimate pharmacokinetic parameters. Increase in terminal elimination half-life (t1/2z) and mean residence time (MRT(0–t)) of scutellarin as well as elevation in area under the plasma drug concentration-time curve from 0 h to the terminal time point (AUC(0–t)) and maximum plasma drug concentration (Cmax) of paeoniflorin, along with decreased clearance of paeoniflorin and scutellarin as well as reduced apparent volume of distribution (Vz) of paeoniflorin, were observed in MCAO rats, compared with those in sham-operated animals. The elimination of scutellarin and paeoniflorin were reduced in cerebral I/R injury reduced rats.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Triazolyl 13α-Estrone–Nucleoside Bioconjugates
Authors: Bodnár Brigitta , Mernyák Erzsébet , Wölfling János , Schneider Gyula , Herman Bianka , Szécsi Mihály , Sinka Izabella , Zupkó István , Kupihár Zoltán , Kovács Lajos
Published: September 2016

2′-Deoxynucleoside conjugates of 13α-estrone were synthesized by applying the copper-catalyzed alkyne–azide click reaction (CuAAC). For the introduction of the azido group the 5′-position of the nucleosides and a propargyl ether functional group on the 3-hydroxy group of 13α-estrone were chosen. The best yields were realized in our hands when the 3′-hydroxy groups of the nucleosides were protected by acetyl groups and the 5′-hydroxy groups were modified by the tosyl–azide exchange method. The commonly used conditions for click reaction between the protected-5′-azidonucleosides and the steroid alkyne was slightly modified by using 1.5 equivalent of Cu(I) catalyst. All the prepared conjugates were evaluated in vitro by means of MTT assays for antiproliferative activity against a panel of human adherent cell lines (HeLa, MCF-7 and A2780) and the potential inhibitory activity of the new conjugates on human 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (17β-HSD1) was investigated via in vitro radiosubstrate incubation. Some protected conjugates displayed moderate antiproliferative properties against a panel of human adherent cancer cell lines (the protected cytidine conjugate proved to be the most potent with IC50 value of 9 μM). The thymidine conjugate displayed considerable 17β-HSD1 inhibitory activity (IC50 = 19 μM).