bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUASI KEMAMPUAN PEMECAHAN MASALAH MATEMATIS MELALUI MODEL PEMBELAJARAN CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING PADA SISWA KELAS X SMA NEGERI KOTA JAMBI
Authors: Harman Harman
Published: November 2019

This study aims to determine the ability of solving mathematical problems through creative problem solving learning model higher than the direct learning model on the students of class X state senior high school of Jambi city. This research is an experimental research because of causal relationship. The way this study is to compare one or more comparison group that have received treatment. The sample of this research is class X MIA 1 as experiment class which is taught by creative problem solving model, while control class is X MIA 2 which is taught by direct learning model. From the result of research and discussion that have been done can be concluded that the ability of solving mathematical problems of students who are studied through the creative problem solving (experiments) learning model obtained an average of 71,9 and students in the learning through direct learning model (control) average 63,3. Of the two clasess obtained tcount is 4,17 and ttable is 1,66 then in this case H0 is rejected and H1 accepted at 95% confidence level. Then it can be concluded that the problem solving ability of mathematical students taught through creative problem solving learning model is higher that the students taught through direct learning model in class X state senior high school of Jambi city.Keywords: Mathematical Problem Solving Ability, Creative Problem Solving Learning Model, Direct Learning Model.
EPC总承包模式下工程项目的验收质量管理
Authors: 郁 宁
Published: November 2019

在社会快速发展的影响下，促进了各个行业的快速发展，尤其是整个建筑行业的发展更是十分明显，在建筑行业快速发展的过程中，也使得大量的施工问题凸显出来，为了能够将各类施工问题加以有效的解决，最为有效的就是针对各个环节进行切实的管理工作。运用EPC总承包模式这单对工程项目验收质量加以管控，能够有效的对工程施工质量加以保证。
On the Beginning of Buddhism in Tamilakam
Authors: SCHALK PETER
Published: November 2019

No abstract available
Irish Literature as Source-Material for Celtic Religion
Authors: LUND WARMIND MORTEN
Published: November 2019

No abstract available
Ingrian Occasional Laments
Authors: NENOLA-KALLIO AILI
Published: November 2019

No abstract available
IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN PEMERINTAH DAERAH TERHADAP UPAYA PENCEGAHAN TRAFFICKING
Authors: Kamudin Kamudin
Published: November 2019

This thesis discusses about the trying to aborting the trafficking indonesian works especially the women in Indramayu district. Due to in regional or international. The victim of trafficking or slavition, so many policy that made by government to fail the trafficking of women and children, basicly the decissions are relativly comprehensivly, since the Costitution 1945 to the rules below it.The problem about the trafficking to women workers in Indramayu district and act with regional government try in minimallizing of trafficking actions of women works in Indramayu district, analysis that done for failing the trafficking of women workers with a few rules about it.In this thesis discussions, the phenomenas are existing to basic problem that will be mixed with conseptual librariation and the mindset that developed for getting the datas of real using the yuridic and empiric. With the theory for determinating of observations. The thesis is using kualitatif with observation and interview.It is can be summaried that factors are causing the trafficking of women workers in Indramayu district, in regional or international fasilities caused by : poority, low education, the minority of job opportunity and the lifestyle the traffickers joining the nearest people of the living environment, the activities of goverments organitations to non government organitations are followed to minimizing the traffickers actions of women workers in Indramayu district.
KONSTRUKSI PERLINDUNGAN HUKUM DEBITUR DALAM PENYELESAIAN KREDIT BERMASALAH DENGAN PELAKSANAAN LELANG JAMINAN HAK TANGGUNGAN
Authors: Sulastri Lusia
Published: November 2019

Settlement of non-performing loans by auction guarantee Encumbrance often bring up the resistance of the debtor in the form of Civil Lawsuit filed to the District Court which is due to the complexity of the auction and there are some weaknesses in the Act Mortgage particular Article 6 and Article 20 is often used as an opportunity to apply for resistance by the debtor. Which is the subject of research is related to the cause of the resistance of the debtor and construct legal protection for the debtor, which will then be analyzed reasons debtor resistance and constructing legal protection for debtors. It is important for creditors to be careful in the credit granting process and the handling of non-performing loans with the auction encumbrance to keep attention on merit, good faith and respect for the property of others, the presence of assessors public good repute be important in determining the value of the limit the object of the auction.
The paschal theology of Abbot Ceolfrith of Wearmouth-Jarrow
Authors: Grigg Julianna
Published: November 2019

Failure to achieve a consensus on a regular Easter cycle divided Christians in the second century and again in the fourth. In the seventh century and early eighth, the matter was contested among the churches of Britain and Ireland. In this period, Ceolfrith, abbot of Wearmouth-Jarrow, sent a letter to the king of the Picts, outlining the reasons for following a nineteen-year paschal cycle. Bede, in his Historia ecclesiastica, reproduced Ceolfrith's letter, preserving a unique study on the logistical and theological complexities in the debate on how to derive the correct date to celebrate Easter. Concentration on Ceolfrith's computistical argument, however, can miss his interpretation of paschal theology that emphasises the Resurrection rather than the Passion; his Christological emphasis on the biblical Exodus story; and his mystical interpretation of Easter as a spiritual journey where light triumphs over darkness. This article therefore discusses Ceolfrith's paschal theology and considers the way in which it may have affected liturgical rites.
ON FORECASTING SOIL SUBSIDENCE OF SOIL IN THE SIDES OF THE QUARRY
Authors: Yushkin Vladimir
Published: November 2019

In the work, analysis of development of mechanical erosion processes at edge pare of quarter deposits during forming of displacements of landslide hazard areas of open-pit sides under impact of environmental and climate factors is given. Thickness of season freezing of rock solid is up to 2.5m, it influences on forming of crack at landslide hazard area. As a result of day temperature changing and collection of soil water, crack growth at soils and rock along edge of open-pit side is activated significantly. Such destructions initiate cirque cleavage and soil subsidence in form of landslides developing with special rate on slope outcrops. Geomechanical monitoring of destructions in solid allows to predict reach of strain tolerance at different stages of deposit mining.
EVALUATION OF ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF RUSSIAN PROJECTS OF LNG EXPORT TO THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION’S COUNTRIES
Authors: Ignatyev Nikita , Provornaya Irina
Published: November 2019

In this work, the Monte Carlo method is used to determine the effectiveness of investments of Russian projects of the export of liquefied natural gas to the countries of the Asia-Pacific region, namely Japan, China and South Korea. The volumes of capital costs for the construction of the facility, operating costs for the operation of the facility, the price of liquefied natural gas were chosen as free parameters in the application of the Monte Carlo method. To perform the work, a forecast of prices for liquefied natural gas in the Asia-Pacific region was made based on the forecast of prices for Brent crude oil. Furthermore, the paper presents a forecast of operating costs for the operation of the project until 2035. The result is to determine the economic efficiency of the Yamal LNG project. The application of the Monte Carlo method showed that the net present value of the project by 2035 is most likely to be about $ 22 billion. Such an excellent result was possible due to the significant tax benefits provided by the state in accordance with the program of development of the oil and gas industry in the Arctic part of Russia.
TAX INCENTIVES IN OIL INDUSTRY TAXATION
Authors: Koptseva Polina , Komarova Anna
Published: November 2019

Proceeds in the form of a mineral extraction tax are one of the main items of income for the federal budget of Russia. Due to the use of preferential ratios in calculating the tax rate of the mineral extraction tax on oil, it can be said that there are tax amounts that were not received by the budget due to the use of tax incentives. As part of this study, the actual and real tax burden of the oil-producing regions of Russia was calculated and analyzed. The applied method of clustering of oil-producing regions allowed us to identify clusters depending on the volume of oil production and the real average tax burden on mineral extraction tax in the form of oil. The results showed that the mineral extraction tax in the form of oil is not characterized by a direct relationship between the tax base and the tax rate.
LEADING ROLE OF THE ORGANIZATIONAL AND MANAGERIAL FACTOR IN FORMING THE EFFICIENCY OF BREAKTHROUGH TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Zhuravel Ninel
Published: November 2019

The purpose of the research presented in the article is to prove on the basis of theoretical statements about self-organization and the limits of efficiency of complex systems that the organizational and managerial factor (OMF) is crucial in achieving the maximum efficiency of breakthrough technologies. With concrete examples from the past, as well as the upcoming path of economic development, the confirmation of the validity of the hypothesis about the leading role of the OMF is presented. In particular it is shown how the economic consulting of enterprises on the efficiency of new products, which in the past century characterized the effective management of NTP, is now developing into the organizational and managerial formation of expert teams with unique technological competences for effective diversification and commercialization of production for breakthrough technology market. The main conclusion of the study is that in order for domestic technologies to be breakthrough, the education system in the country must again become breakthrough in terms of the competence of all its participants.
Endophytic Fungi of Citrus Plants
Authors: Nicoletti Rosario
Published: November 2019

Besides a diffuse research activity on drug discovery and biodiversity carried out in natural contexts, more recently, investigations concerning endophytic fungi have started considering their occurrence in crops based on the major role that these microorganisms have been recognized to play in plant protection and growth promotion. Fruit growing is particularly involved in this new wave, by reason that the pluriannual crop cycle likely implies a higher impact of these symbiotic interactions. Aspects concerning occurrence and effects of endophytic fungi associated with citrus species are revised in the present paper.
Enhanced FANO Structure Based on Tip-Field-Enhancement Theory
Authors: Zhou Tianchi , Zhang Bo , Zhang Yaxin , Shu Chao , Liang Shixiong , Wang Lan , Song Kaijun
Published: November 2019

High-Q metasurfaces have attracted much interest owing to their potential application in biological sensors. FANO is a type of high-Q factor metasurface. However, it is difficult to achieve large resonant intensity and a high-Q factor at the same time. In this paper, by sharpening the tips of the asymmetrical split-ring FANO structure and letting more charges stack at the tips to enhance tip coupling, the Q factor was significantly improved without sacrificing too much resonant intensity. Simulation results showed that the Q factor increased up to 2.4 times, while the resonant intensity stayed higher than 20 dB, and the experiment results agreed with the simulations. This indicated that the tip-field-enhancement theory can be applied in time-harmonic electromagnetic-fields, and the method proposed here can be used to increase the sensitivity and accuracy of microfluidic sensors. Additionally, other types of research, such as on antenna design, could benefit from this theory.
Ratcheting Simulation of a Steel Pipe with Assembly Parts under Internal Pressure and a Cyclic Bending Load
Authors: Yang Hongwei , Dai Ying , He Pengfei
Published: November 2019

The ratcheting behavior of a steel pipe with assembly parts was examined under internal pressure and a cyclic bending load, which has not been seen in previous research. An experimentally validated and three dimensional (3D) elastic-plastic finite element model (FEM)—with a nonlinear isotropic/kinematic hardening model—was used for the pipe’s ratcheting simulation and considered the assembly contact effects outlined in this paper. A comparison of the ratcheting response of pipes with and without assembly parts showed that assembly contact between the sleeve and pipe suppressed the ratcheting response by changing its trend. In this work, the assembly contact effect on the ratcheting response of the pipe with assembly parts is discussed. Both the assembly contact and bending moment were found to control the ratcheting response, and the valley and peak values of the hoop ratcheting strain were the transition points of the two control modes. Finally, while the clearance between the sleeve and the pipe had an effect on the ratcheting response when it was not large, it had no effect when it reached a certain value.
Soluble Fraction from Lysates of Selected Probiotic Strains Differently Influences Re-Epithelialization of HaCaT Scratched Monolayer Through a Mechanism Involving Nitric Oxide Synthase 2
Authors: Lombardi Francesca , Palumbo Paola , Mattei Antonella , Augello Francesca Rosaria , Cifone Maria Grazia , Giuliani Maurizio , Cinque Benedetta
Published: November 2019

A growing body of evidence supports the use of probiotics in the treatment of several skin conditions, including wounds. Even if in vitro and in vivo studies have highlighted the pro-healing effects of some probiotic bacteria, the underlying mechanisms are still not fully defined. The current investigation aimed to determine the re-epithelialization potential of the soluble fraction from lysate of seven different probiotic strains belonging to different genera (i.e., Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium) on in vitro physically wounded HaCaT monolayer model. The results suggested that the soluble fraction of S. thermophilus, L. plantarum, and L. acidophilus promoted the re-epithelialization of scratched HaCaT monolayers, whereas those from B. longum, B. infantis, and B. breve significantly inhibited the process. On the other hand, L. bulgaricus showed no significant effect on in vitro wound repair. The mechanisms underlying the pro- or anti-healing properties of selected bacterial strains strictly and positively correlated with their ability to modulate nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) expression and activity. Accordingly, the pre-treatment with aminoguanidine (AG), a specific inhibitor of NOS2 activity, abrogated the pro-healing effects of S. thermophilus, L. plantarum, and L. acidophilus.
Community Detection Method Based on Node Density, Degree Centrality, and K-Means Clustering in Complex Network
Authors: Cai Biao , Zeng Lina , Wang Yanpeng , Li Hongjun , Hu Yanmei
Published: November 2019

Community detection in networks plays a key role in understanding their structures, and the application of clustering algorithms in community detection tasks in complex networks has attracted intensive attention in recent years. In this paper, based on the definition of uncertainty of node community belongings, the node density is proposed first. After that, the DD (the combination of node density and node degree centrality) is proposed for initial node selection in community detection. Finally, based on the DD and k-means clustering algorithm, we proposed a community detection approach, the density-degree centrality-jaccard-k-means method (DDJKM). The DDJKM algorithm can avoid the problem of random selection of initial cluster centers in conventional k-means clustering algorithms, so that isolated nodes will not be selected as initial cluster centers. Additionally, DDJKM can reduce the iteration times in the clustering process and the over-short distances between the initial cluster centers can be avoided by calculating the node similarity. The proposed method is compared with state-of-the-art algorithms on synthetic networks and real-world networks. The experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed method in accurately describing the community. The results also show that the DDJKM is practical a approach for the detection of communities with large network datasets.
Robust Frame Synchronization Scheme for Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution with Simple Process
Authors: Chen Rui , Huang Peng , Li Dengwen , Zhu Yiqun , Zeng Guihua
Published: November 2019

In continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) systems, high-quality data synchronization between two legitimate parties, Alice and Bob, is the premise of the generation of shared secret keys. Synchronization with specially designed frames is an efficient way, but it requires special modulating devices to generate these special frames. Moreover, the extra requirement of special modulating devices makes it technically impossible for some passive preparation schemes. We propose a novel approach to realize synchronization in this paper, which is different from those special-frame-based methods. In our proposed scheme, Alice publishes parts of the original signals as the synchronization frames and Bob takes these frames to perform the synchronization algorithm. Besides, a synchronization feature is applied to deal with phase shifts. The simulation results based on practical data demonstrate that the proposed synchronization scheme not only maintains a high success rate but simplifies the data processing flow at the same time, which dramatically reduces the computational complexity.
Application of the Nucleation Theorem to Crystallization of Liquids: Some General Theoretical Results
Authors: Schmelzer Jürn W. P.
Published: November 2019

Different aspects in applying the nucleation theorem to the description of crystallization of liquids are analyzed. It is shown that, by employing the classical Gibbs’ approach in the thermodynamic description of heterogeneous systems, a general form of the nucleation theorem can be formulated that is valid not only for one-component but generally for multi-component systems. In this analysis, one basic assumption of classical nucleation theory is utilized. In addition, commonly employed in application to crystallization, it is supposed that the bulk properties of the critical clusters are widely identical to the properties of the newly evolving crystal phase. It is shown that the formulation of the nucleation theorem as proposed by Kashchiev [J. Chem. Phys. 76, 5098-5102 (1982)], also relying widely on the standard classical approach in the description of crystal nucleation, holds for multi-component systems as well. The general form of the nucleation theorem derived by us is taken then as the starting point for the derivation of particular forms of this theorem for the cases that the deviation from equilibrium is caused by variations of either composition of the liquid phase, temperature, or pressure. In this procedure, expressions recently developed by us for the curvature dependence of the surface tension, respectively, its dependence on pressure and/or temperature are employed. The basic assumption of classical nucleation theory mentioned above is, however, in general, not true. The bulk and surface properties of the critical crystal clusters may differ considerably from the properties of the evolving macroscopic phases. Such effects can be incorporated into the theoretical description by the application of the generalized Gibbs approach for the specification of the dependence of the properties of critical crystal clusters on the degree of metastability of the liquid phase. Applying this method, it is demonstrated that a similar formulation of the nucleation theorem, as derived based on classical nucleation theory, holds true also in cases when a dependence of the state parameters of the critical clusters on the degree of deviation from equilibrium is appropriately accounted for.
Extending 5G Capacity Planning Through Advanced Subscriber Behavior-Centric Clustering
Authors: Gonçalves Luís Carlos , Sebastião Pedro , Souto Nuno , Correia Américo
Published: November 2019

This work focuses on providing enhanced capacity planning and resource management for 5G networks through bridging data science concepts with usual network planning processes. For this purpose, we propose using a subscriber-centric clustering approach, based on subscribers’ behavior, leading to the concept of intelligent 5G networks, ultimately resulting in relevant advantages and improvements to the cellular planning process. Such advanced data-science-related techniques provide powerful insights into subscribers’ characteristics that can be extremely useful for mobile network operators. We demonstrate the advantages of using such techniques, focusing on the particular case of subscribers’ behavior, which has not yet been the subject of relevant studies. In this sense, we extend previously developed work, contributing further by showing that by applying advanced clustering, two new behavioral clusters appear, whose traffic generation and capacity demand profiles are very relevant for network planning and resource management and, therefore, should be taken into account by mobile network operators. As far as we are aware, for network, capacity, and resource management planning processes, it is the first time that such groups have been considered. We also contribute by demonstrating that there are extensive advantages for both operators and subscribers by performing advanced subscriber clustering and analytics.
An Enhanced Logic Encryption Method with a Fully Correlated Key Interdependency Block
Authors: He Jiaji , Ma Haocheng , Song Kaiyue , Zhao Yiqiang
Published: November 2019

Logic encryption, as a hardware security technique, can protect integrated circuits (ICs) by inserting additional gates. The inserted gates guarantee that predefined outputs are only generated when correct key inputs are provided, preventing IC counterfeiting, intellectual property (IP) theft, and IC overproduction. To evaluate the logic encryption’s robustness, two major criteria are usually utilized, which are (1) the interdependency between the keys and (2) the output corruption against attacks, including path sensitization attack, SATbased attack, hill-climbing attack, etc. However, the majority of existing logic encryption methods emphasize one criterion over the other. In this paper, an enhanced logic encryption method with a fully correlated key interdependency block is proposed. The method enhances the interdependency of keys and determines the locations of key-gates utilizing a rare node analysis method. Experimental results validate that the proposed method can withstand path sensitization attack and ensure 50% Hamming distance with reasonable design overheads.
Methane and Hydrogen Sulfide Production from Co-Digestion of Gummy Waste with a Food Waste, Grease Waste, and Dairy Manure Mixture
Authors: Choudhury Abhinav , Lansing Stephanie
Published: November 2019

Co-digestion of dairy manure with waste organic substrates has been shown to increase the methane (CH4) yield of farm-scale anaerobic digestion (AD). A gummy vitamin waste (GVW) product was evaluated as an AD co-digestion substrate using batch AD testing. The GVW product was added at four inclusion levels (0%, 5%, 9%, and 23% on a wet mass basis) to a co-digestion substrate mixture of dairy manure (DM), food-waste (FW), and grease-waste (GW) and compared to mono-digestion of the GVW, DM, FW, and GW substrates. All GVW co-digestion treatments significantly increased CH4 yield by 126–151% (336–374 mL CH4/g volatile solids (VS)) compared to DM-only treatment (149 mL CH4/g VS). The GVW co-digestion treatments also significantly decreased the hydrogen sulfide (H2S) content in the biogas by 66–83% (35.1–71.9 mL H2S/kg VS) compared to DM-only (212 mL H2S/kg VS) due to the low sulfur (S) content in GVW waste. The study showed that GVW is a potentially valuable co-digestion substrate for dairy manure. The high density of VS and low moisture and S content of GVW resulted in higher CH4 yields and lower H2S concentrations, which could be economically beneficial for dairy farmers.
Consumer Support and Willingness to Pay for Electricity from Solar, Wind, and Cow Manure in the United States: Evidence from a Survey in Vermont
Authors: Wang Qingbin , Valchuis Laurel , Thompson Ethan , Conner David , Parsons Robert
Published: November 2019

Information on public support and willingness to pay (WTP) for renewable energy from alternative sources is critically important for the development and evaluation of renewable energy policies and programs. This study assesses consumer support and WTP for electricity from solar panels, wind turbines, and on-farm anaerobic digester systems (ADS) in the United States, using data collected from a household survey in the state of Vermont. Empirical results suggest that solar power was the respondents’ top choice for public investment, and cow power (electricity generated from ADS) was the least-favored choice. Also, the variations in the likelihood of being willing to pay a premium for each renewable electricity across respondents were closely associated with factors such as education, political affiliation, homeownership, and local agricultural engagement. The relatively low level of public support and WTP for cow power is likely the result of unfamiliarity with this renewable source of electricity, and more educational efforts are highly needed to promote this renewable energy with many environmental benefits for a dairy state.
Numerical Modeling of Suspension Force for Bearingless Flywheel Machine Based on Differential Evolution Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Zhu Zhiying , Zhu Jin , Guo Xuan , Jiang Yongjiang , Sun Yukun
Published: November 2019

The analytical model (AM) of suspension force in a bearingless flywheel machine has model mismatch problems due to magnetic saturation and rotor eccentricity. A numerical modeling method based on the differential evolution (DE) extreme learning machine (ELM) is proposed in this paper. The representative input and output sample set are obtained by finite-element analysis (FEA) and principal component analysis (PCA), and the numerical model of suspension force is obtained by training ELM. Additionally, the DE algorithm is employed to optimize the ELM parameters to improve the model accuracy. Finally, absolute error (AE) and root mean squared error (RMSE) are introduced as evaluation indexes to conduct comparative analyses with other commonly-used machine learning algorithms, such as k-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), the back propagation (BP) algorithm, and support vector machines (SVMs). The results show that, compared with the above algorithm, the proposed method has smaller fitting and prediction errors; the RMSE value is just 22.88% of KNN, 39.90% of BP, and 58.37% of SVM, which verifies the effectiveness and validity of the proposed numerical modeling method.
An Improved Bare Bone Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Solar Thermal Power Plants
Authors: Niu Qun , Wang Han , Sun Ziyuan , Yang Zhile
Published: November 2019

Solar energy has many advantages, such as being abundant, clean and environmentally friendly. Solar power generation has been widely deployed worldwide as an important form of renewable energy. The solar thermal power generation is one of a few popular forms to utilize solar energy, yet its modelling is a complicated problem. In this paper, an improved bare bone multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm (IBBMOPSO) is proposed based on the bare bone multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm (BBMOPSO). The algorithm is first tested on a set of benchmark problems, confirming its efficacy and the convergency speed. Then, it is applied to optimize two typical solar power generation systems including the solar Stirling power generation and the solar Brayton power generation; the results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms other algorithms for multi-objective optimization problems.
A New Principle of Distance Protection for the UHV GIL-Overhead Hybrid Line Based on Frequency Domain Lossless Transmission Line Equation
Authors: Li Botong , Gu Tianfeng , Li Bin , Chen Xiaolong , Wen Weijie
Published: November 2019

The Gas-insulated Line (GIL) is a technical equipment that allows power transmission underground at high voltage level. The UHV GIL-overhead hybrid transmission line is an essential way for power transmission in complicated landscapes. Because of the distributed capacitance of the UHV transmission line and the difference of the structure and the electrical parameters between GIL and overhead transmission line, the distance protection based on uniform lumped parameters cannot be applied to this hybrid transmission line directly. In order to overcome the shortcomings, this paper studies and proposes a new principle of distance protection for the UHV GIL-overhead hybrid transmission line based on frequency domain lossless transmission line equation, with the distributed capacitance accounted. Then, the paper presents a setting scheme for this distance protection with the hybrid line parameters considered. Finally, tests are carried out on the Power Systems Computer Aided Design (PSCAD) platform, and the accuracy and reliability of the distance protection method proposed are verified by simulation results.
A Framework for Determining a Prediction-Of-Use Tariff Aimed at Coordinating Aggregators of Plug-In Electric Vehicles
Authors: Coria Gustavo E. , Sanchez Angel M. , Al-Sumaiti Ameena S. , Rattá Guiseppe A. , Rivera Sergio R. , Romero Andrés A.
Published: November 2019

The objective of this article is to propose a framework for defining a day-ahead prediction-of-use tariff (POU) that promotes aggregators of the plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) to operate as closely as possible to an optimal charging curve previously calculated by the distribution system operator (DSO). The DSO calculates this optimal charging curve to flatten the load curve of the distribution transformers as much as possible by coordinating the daily recharging of PEVs. The objective is to establish the optimal power profile of the PEV aggregators needed to flatten the power curve supplied by the transformer, so that PEV customers’ needs can be met throughout the day. The proposed framework is applied in a case study accounting for uncertainties associated with charging through Monte Carlo simulation, in order to find the POU tariff. The results demonstrate that applying the POU tariff determines the transformer’s minimum power limit necessary to meet all PEV users’ needs. Additionally, the day-ahead POU tariff does not generate new demand peaks, since it does not concentrate the energy supply of flexible loads in pre-established time bands. Finally, simulation reflects the significant effect of the PEV charging on the distribution system in terms of enhancing the voltage profile, maximizing the transformer life, and reducing the power/energy losses.
Wireless Battery Charging Circuit Using Load Estimation without Wireless Communication
Authors: Lee Sang-Won , Choi Yoon-Geol , Kim Jung-Ha , Kang Bongkoo
Published: November 2019

A wireless battery charging circuit is proposed, along with a new load estimation method. The proposed estimation method can predict the load resistance, mutual inductance, output voltage, and output current without any wireless communication between the transmitter and receiver sides. Unlike other estimation methods that sense the high-frequency AC voltage and current of the transmitter coil, the proposed method only requires the DC output value of the peak current detection circuit at the transmitter coil. The proposed wireless power transfer (WPT) circuit uses the estimated parameters, and accurately controls the output current and voltage by adjusting the switching phase difference of the transmitter side. The WPT prototype circuit using a new load estimation method was tested under various coil alignment and load conditions. Finally, the circuit was operated in a constant current and constant voltage modes to charge a 48-V battery pack. These results show that the proposed WPT circuit that uses the new load estimation method is well suited for charging a battery pack.
Characterization of Fulvic Acid Beverages by Mineral Profile and Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Swat Monika , Rybicka Iga , Gliszczyńska-Świgło Anna
Published: November 2019

The main purpose of the study was to investigate the quality of fulvic acid-based food products. The concentrations of Ca, K, Mg, Na, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn, and antioxidant capacities of fulvic acid concentrates and ready-to drink beverages available on the global market were determined. The concentrations of minerals were determined using microwave plasma-atomic emission spectrometry. Antioxidant capacity was expressed as total polyphenol (TP) and flavonoid (TF) contents, the trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) values. The daily portion of eight out of 14 products realized 45–135% of recommended daily allowance (RDA) for Fe. One of ready-to-drink beverages was also a good source of Mg (about 40% of RDA), and another one of Mn (about 70% of RDA). The concentrations of TP and TF in ready-to-drink beverages varied from 6.5 to 187 µg/mL, whereas in concentrates, from 5886 to 19,844 µg/mL. Dietary supplements or food products with fulvic acids may be a good source of antioxidant polyphenolic compounds and some minerals.
Functional Impacts of the BRCA1-mTORC2 Interaction in Breast Cancer
Authors: Krieger Kimiko L. , Hu Wen-Feng , Ripperger Tyler , Woods Nicholas T.
Published: November 2019

Deleterious mutations in Breast Cancer 1 (BRCA1) are associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Mutations in the tandem BRCA1 C-terminal (tBRCT) protein domain disrupt critical protein interactions required for the faithful repair of DNA through homologous recombination, which contributes to oncogenesis. Our studies have identified RICTOR, PRR5, and SIN1 subunits of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) as interacting partners with the tBRCT domain of BRCA1 leading to the disruption of the mTORC2 complex. However, the interplay between mTORC2 signaling and BRCA1 function in the DNA damage response (DDR) remains to be determined. In this study, we used protein interaction assays to determine the binary interactions between the tBRCT domain and mTORC2 subunits, evaluated the impact of mTOR inhibition on the transcriptional function of the tBRCT, evaluated the impact of mTOR signaling on BRCA1 recruitment to DNA damage-induced foci and determined the breast cancer cell line response to mTOR inhibition dependent upon BRCA1 expression and mutation. This study determined that PRR5, RICTOR, and SIN1 could each independently interact with the BRCA1 tBRCT. Inhibition of mTORC1, but not mTORC1/2, increases BRCA1 transcriptional activation activity. Treatment with pan-mTOR inhibitor PP242 diminishes DNA damage-induced γH2AX and BRCA1 foci formation. Breast cancer cells lacking expression of functional BRCA1 are more sensitive to mTOR inhibitors. These data suggest that mTOR signaling is required for BRCA1 response to DNA damage and breast cancer cells lacking BRCA1 are more sensitive to pan-mTOR inhibition. This work suggests chemotherapeutic strategies using mTOR inhibitors could be tailored for patients that lack functional BRCA1.
Absolute Protein Amounts and Relative Abundance of Volume-regulated Anion Channel (VRAC) LRRC8 Subunits in Cells and Tissues Revealed by Quantitative Immunoblotting
Authors: Pervaiz Sumaira , Kopp Anja , von Kleist Lisa , Stauber Tobias
Published: November 2019

The volume-regulated anion channel (VRAC) plays an important role in osmotic cell volume regulation. In addition, it is involved in various physiological processes such as insulin secretion, glia-neuron communication and purinergic signaling. VRAC is formed by hetero-hexamers of members of the LRRC8 protein family, which consists of five members, LRRC8A-E. LRRC8A is an essential subunit for physiological functionality of VRAC. Its obligate heteromerization with at least one of its paralogues, LRRC8B-E, determines the biophysical properties of VRAC. Moreover, the subunit composition is of physiological relevance as it largely influences the activation mechanism and especially the substrate selectivity. However, the endogenous tissue-specific subunit composition of VRAC is unknown. We have now developed and applied a quantitative immunoblot study of the five VRAC LRRC8 subunits in various mouse cell lines and tissues, using recombinant protein for signal calibration. We found tissue-specific expression patterns of the subunits, and generally relative low expression of the essential LRRC8A subunit. Immunoprecipitation of LRRC8A also co-precipitates an excess of the other subunits, suggesting that non-LRRC8A subunits present the majority in hetero-hexamers. With this, we can estimate that in the tested cell lines, the number of VRAC channels per cell is in the order of 10,000, which is in agreement with earlier calculations from the comparison of single-channel and whole-cell currents.
phyB and HY5 are Involved in the Blue Light-Mediated Alleviation of Dormancy of Arabidopsis Seeds Possibly via the Modulation of Expression of Genes Related to Light, GA, and ABA
Authors: Stawska Marlena , Oracz Krystyna
Published: November 2019

Light is one of the most important environmental factors regulating seed germination. It is known that light inhibits seed germination of some monocotyledonous species and that it is mostly related to the blue wavelength of the spectrum received by cryptochromes (cry). Research has also found that the red light (R) stimulates germination of dicotyledonous seeds and that this reaction involves mainly phytochromes (phy). Surprisingly, up to date, the role and the mechanism of action of blue light (BL) in seed biology of dicot plants is still very poorly understood and some questions are unexplained, e.g., whether BL plays a role in regulation of dicot seeds dormancy and/or germination? If, so what particular elements of light signaling pathway are involved in modulation of this(ese) process(es)? Also, is the BL action in regulation of dicot seeds dormancy and/or germination maybe due to changes of expression of genes related to metabolism and/or signaling of two phytohormones controlling seed-related events, such as gibberellins (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA)? To answer these intriguing questions, the combination of biological, transcriptomic, and genetic approaches was performed in this particular study. The germination tests show that freshly harvested wild type (WT) Arabidopsis thaliana Col-0 seeds are dormant and do not germinate in darkness (at 25 °C), while nondormant (after-ripened) seeds germinate well in these conditions. It is also proven that dormancy of seeds of this species is released in the presence of white and/or BL (λ = 447 nm) when placed at 25 °C. Presented here, novel results emphasize the role of BL in dormancy alleviation of dicot seeds, indicating that this wavelength of light spectrum received by phyB induces this process and that the sensitivity to this stimulus depends on the depth of seed dormancy. In addition, it is demonstrated that various elements of phy-mediated pathway can be used in response to the signal induced by BL in germinating dormant seeds of Arabidopsis. The quantitative real time PCR analysis supported by results of germination tests of WT, T-DNA insertion mutants (i.e., hy5, hfr1, and laf1) and overexpression transformants of Arabidopsis seeds (i.e., 35S:OE:HY5, 35S:OE:HYH, 35S:OE:HFR1, and 35S:OE:LAF1) revealed that the HY5 gene coding transcription factor is most probably responsible for the control of expression of genes involved in GA/ABA metabolism and/or signaling pathways during BL-dependent dormancy alleviation of Arabidopsis seeds, while biological functions of HYH and HFR1 are associated with regulation of germination. The model of BL action in regulation of dormancy alleviation and germination potential of Arabidopsis seeds is proposed.
Current Treatment Strategies and Nanoparticle-Mediated Drug Delivery Systems for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Nakamura Kazufumi , Akagi Satoshi , Ejiri Kentaro , Yoshida Masashi , Miyoshi Toru , Toh Norihisa , Nakagawa Koji , Takaya Yoichi , Matsubara Hiromi , Ito Hiroshi
Published: November 2019

There are three critical pathways for the pathogenesis and progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH): the prostacyclin (prostaglandin I2) (PGI2), nitric oxide (NO), and endothelin pathways. The current approved drugs targeting these three pathways, including prostacyclin (PGI2), phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, and endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs), have been shown to be effective, however, PAH remains a severe clinical condition and the long-term survival of patients with PAH is still suboptimal. The full therapeutic abilities of available drugs are reduced by medication, patient non-compliance, and side effects. Nanoparticles are expected to address these problems by providing a novel drug delivery approach for the treatment of PAH. Drug-loaded nanoparticles for local delivery can optimize the efficacy and minimize the adverse effects of drugs. Prostacyclin (PGI2) analogue, PDE5 inhibitors, ERA, pitavastatin, imatinib, rapamycin, fasudil, and oligonucleotides-loaded nanoparticles have been reported to be effective in animal PAH models and in vitro studies. However, the efficacy and safety of nanoparticle mediated-drug delivery systems for PAH treatment in humans are unknown and further clinical studies are required to clarify these points.
Identification of a Major QTL (qRRs-10.1) That Confers Resistance to Ralstonia solanacearum in Pepper (Capsicum annuum) Using SLAF-BSA and QTL Mapping
Authors: Du Heshan , Wen Changlong , Zhang Xiaofen , Xu Xiulan , Yang Jingjing , Chen Bin , Geng Sansheng
Published: November 2019

The soilborne pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum is the causal agent of bacterial wilt (BW), a major disease of pepper (Capsicum annuum). The genetic basis of resistance to this disease in pepper is not well known. This study aimed to identify BW resistance markers in pepper. Analysis of the dynamics of bioluminescent R. solanacearum colonization in reciprocal grafts of a resistant (BVRC 1) line and a susceptible (BVRC 25) line revealed that the resistant rootstock effectively suppressed the spreading of bacteria into the scion. The two clear-cut phenotypic distributions of the disease severity index in 440 F2 plants derived from BVRC 25 × BVRC 1 indicated that a major genetic factor as well as a few minor factors that control BW resistance. By specific-locus amplified fragment sequencing combined with bulked segregant analysis, two adjacent resistance-associated regions on chromosome 10 were identified. Quantitative trait (QTL) mapping revealed that these two regions belong to a single QTL, qRRs-10.1. The marker ID10-194305124, which reached a maximum log-likelihood value at 9.79 and accounted for 19.01% of the phenotypic variation, was located the closest to the QTL peak. A cluster of five predicted R genes and three defense-related genes, which are located in close proximity to the significant markers ID10-194305124 or ID10-196208712, are important candidate genes that may confer BW resistance in pepper.
Chitosan as a Wound Dressing Starting Material: Antimicrobial Properties and Mode of Action
Authors: Matica Mariana Adina , Aachmann Finn Lillelund , Tøndervik Anne , Sletta Håvard , Ostafe Vasile
Published: November 2019

Fighting bacterial resistance is one of the concerns in modern days, as antibiotics remain the main resource of bacterial control. Data shows that for every antibiotic developed, there is a microorganism that becomes resistant to it. Natural polymers, as the source of antibacterial agents, offer a new way to fight bacterial infection. The advantage over conventional synthetic antibiotics is that natural antimicrobial agents are biocompatible, non-toxic, and inexpensive. Chitosan is one of the natural polymers that represent a very promising source for the development of antimicrobial agents. In addition, chitosan is biodegradable, non-toxic, and most importantly, promotes wound healing, features that makes it suitable as a starting material for wound dressings. This paper reviews the antimicrobial properties of chitosan and describes the mechanisms of action toward microbial cells as well as the interactions with mammalian cells in terms of wound healing process. Finally, the applications of chitosan as a wound-dressing material are discussed along with the current status of chitosan-based wound dressings existing on the market.
Analysis of Pollen Allergens in Lily by Transcriptome and Proteome Data
Authors: Feng Jingxian , Wu Ze , Wang Xueqian , Zhang Yaming , Teng Nianjun
Published: November 2019

The lily (Lilium spp.) anther contains a lot of pollen. It is not known if lily pollen contains allergens, and therefore screening pollen allergy-related proteins and genes is necessary. The pollen development period of lily ‘Siberia’ was determined by microscope observation. Early mononuclear microspores and mature pollens were used as sequencing materials. The analysis of the pollen transcriptome identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs), e.g., Profilin, Phl p 7 (Polcalcin), Ole e 1, and Phl p 11, which are associated with pollen allergens. The proteome analysis positively verified a significant increase in pollen allergenic protein content. The expression levels of LoProfiilin and LoPolcalcin, annotated as allergen proteins, gradually increased in mature pollen. LoProfiilin and LoPolcalcin were cloned and their open reading frame lengths were 396 bp and 246 bp, which encoded 131 and 81 amino acids, respectively. Amino acid sequence and structure alignment indicated that the protein sequences of LoProfilin and LoPolcalcin were highly conserved. Subcellular localization analysis showed that LoProfilin protein was localized in the cell cytoplasm and nucleus. LoProfilin and LoPolcalcin were highly expressed in mature pollen at the transcriptional and protein levels. A tertiary structure prediction analysis identified LoProfilin and LoPolcalcin as potential allergens in lily pollen.