bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APLIKASI ALAT MUSIK TRADISIONAL GAMELAN JAWA BERBASIS ANDROID
Authors: Hidayati Khotim Hidayati , Nafiiyah Nur Nafiiyah
Published: February 2018

Musik gamelan Jawa adalah karya seni musik tradisional yang merupakan produk seni dan budaya asli Indonesia yang perlu dijaga kelestariannya. Musik gamelan Jawa merupakan identitas bangsa Indonesia, yang sekaligus merupakan hasil karya seni musik tradisi yang sangat tinggi nilainya.Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk membangun aplikasi gamelan jawa sebagai media pelestarian budaya dan media pembelajaran instrumen gamelan dengan memanfaatkan perkembangan teknologi informasi. Sistem ini dibangun dengan menggunakan software eclipse yang sudah terpasang ADT, kemudian sistem diuji dengan SDK. Desain gambar gamelan menggunakan software Adobe Potoshop. Hasil penelitian memberikan kemudahan terhadap masyarakat untuk belajar mengetahui tentang gamelan jawa serta membantu memperkenalkan kebudayaan tradisional Indonesia dari perangkat mobile berbasis android.
PENGARUH FASILITAS DAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN TERHADAP KEPUASAN PENUMPANG DI TERMINAL RAJEKWESI BOJONEGORO
Authors: Endang Endang , Cholidah Laily Nur
Published: February 2018

This study aims to determine the effect of simultaneous variables X1 (facilities) and X2 (service quality) to variable Y (satisfaction) and know the partial influence of variable X1 (facility) and X2 (service quality) to variable Y (satisfaction). Sampling technique using accidental sampling. Data collection method in this research is using primary data and secondary data. Data were analyzed by using multiple linear regression with the help of SPSS 23. Based on the result of t test data analysis variable X1 (facility) and X2 (service quality) partially have no significant effect on passenger satisfaction in terminal Rajekwesi Bojonegoro and the result of F test simultaneous variable X1 (facility) and X2 (service quality) have significant influence to passenger satisfaction in terminal Rajekwesi Bojonegoro.
Influence Of Leadership, Motivation, Cylinary And Work Environment To Employee Performance
Authors: Taufik Mokhamad , Irdiana Sukma
Published: February 2018

This study aims to determine the influence of leadership, motivation, discipline, and work environment significantly partially and simultaneously to the performance of subdistrict officials in Lumajang District. In this study used quantitative research methods using multiple linear regression analysis tools. Respondents were 78 subdistrict officials in Lumajang District. Thenresults of this study are and documentation and continued with data processing to draw conclusions. From this research, it can be concluded that Leadership, motivation and work environment there is no significant partial positive effect on the performance of sub-district officials in Lumajang District. partially on the performance While the discipline there is a significant positive influence of subdistrict officials in Lumajang District. Simultaneously Leadership, motivation, discipline and work environment there is a significant positive influence partially on the performance of subdistrict officials in Lumajang District. The variables studied have an effect of 40.2% on employee performance, and the rest is influenced by other variables.
Application of Logistic Regression Model in Physics Education
Authors: Lamichhane Shobha Kanta
Published: February 2018

This paper introduces a logistic regression model used to analyze multiple-choice test data of physics test. It does not involve decision making. It is a predictive model and is more akin to nonlinearity, such as fitting a polynomial to a set of data values. Brief description of the goals and algorithms of such a model is provided, together with examples illustrating their applications in physics. Priority haven been given for data interpretation rather than mathematical complexities.Key words: Logistic regression; Multiple choice test items; Classical test theory; Item response theory; Probability; EvaluationThe Himalayan Physics Vol.1, No.1, May, 2010Page: 4-9Uploaded Date: 28 July, 2011
Lasers in Forensic Science
Authors: Tripathi R. N.
Published: February 2018

The application of scientific methods of observation and analysis to detect and interpret clues materials at the site of crime as well as analysis of forensic exhibits in the laboratory which include, inter alia, elemental analysis, fl uorescenes of fingerprints, biological stains and other chemicals, particle size analysis, time lapse photography, Raman Laser Probe etc.Key words: Forensic scienceThe Himalayan PhysicsVol.1, No.1, May, 2010Page: 32-33Uploaded Date: 28 July, 2011
Precession of the Earth's Axis
Authors: Mallik Arbind Kumar
Published: February 2018

Not available.Key words: Earth's AxisThe Himalayan Physics Vol.1, No.1, May, 2010 Page: 83-84 Uploaded Date: 29 July, 2011
Radiation and Health Hazard
Authors: Tripathi Ramesh
Published: February 2018

Not available.Key words: Radiation; HealthThe Himalayan Physics Vol.1, No.1, May, 2010 Page: 85-88 Uploaded Date: 28 July, 2011
Large Hadron Collider: The Quest of 'God Particles'
Authors: Pokharel Bhesh Raj
Published: February 2018

Not available.Key words: Large hardonThe Himalayan Physics Vol.1, No.1, May, 2010 Page:96-96 Uploaded Date: 29 July, 2011
Prevalence and Identification of Coccidian Parasite (Eimeria Spp) in Layer Chicken of Ratnanagar Municipality, Chitwan District, Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Arjun , Gupta Ranjana , Pant Ganesh Raj
Published: February 2018

Five different species of Eimeria viz. E. acervulina, E. maxima, E. necatrix, E. tenella and E. brunetti were identified. The highest percentage (50%) was found with mixed infection. Specieswise infection with E. tenella was recorded in the present study. Monthwise highest prevalence rate (50%) was observed in March and the lowest (10%) in the months of April and September. Seasonwise prevalence showed the highest prevalence rate (33%) in the summer and spring, and the least (14%) in the autumn. The agewise prevalence was the highest (48%) in the 31-45 days age group and the least (6%) in 0-15 days age group of layers. The coccidiosis was found highly prevalence in mud/mud+brick type floor than in concrete type floor farms.Key words: Coccidiosis; Eimeria; infection; layers; percentage; summer; springJournal of Natural History Museum Vol. 23, 2008 Page 45-50
Report on Some Terrestrial Molluscs from Different Regions of Nepal
Authors: Subba Bharat Raj , Ghosh Tapan Kumar
Published: February 2018

Nine species of terrestrial molluscs were collected at eastern, mid western and far western regions of Nepal. The documented molluscan samples are represented with 4 families under three orders. Out of the total record of nine species, four species belonged to the family Ariophantidae, three species to Subulinidae, one species to Bradybaenidae and one to Veronicellidae.Key Words: Molluscs; Nepal; record; species; terrestrialJournal of Natural History Museum Vol. 23, 2008 Page 78-81
Study on Seasonal Activity of Predatory Wasps Attacking Honeybee Apis cerana Fab. Colonies in Southern Belt of Kaski District, Nepal
Authors: Ranabhat Nara Bahadur , Tamrakar Anand Shoba
Published: February 2018

A study was carried out at southern belt of Kaski District during Aug 2003 to July 2004 to study on seasonal activity of predatory wasps viz: Vespa velutina, V. bicolor, V. tropica and V. basalis were observed preying on Apis cerana Fab. in apiaries. Among them Vespa velutina and V. bicolor were the most abundant and common enemies of bees throughout the year. Peak predatory activity occurred to bees ranged from 1.25 to 12.25 per day during different months of the year, when must often coincided with the floral dearth period. Morning and noontime were peak time of attack than late day, which most often coincided with the activity of bees.Key Words: abundant; apiaries; bees; floral dearth; peak time; populationJournal of Natural History Museum Vol. 23, 2008 Page 125-128
Effect of MHD on Nanofluid flow, Heat and Mass Transfer over a Stretching Surface Embedded in a Porous Medium
Authors: Mami Nassima , Bouaziz Mohamed Najib
Published: February 2018

The steady, laminar, mixed convection, boundary layer flow of an incompressible nanofluid past over a semi-infinite stretching surface in a nanofluid –saturated porous medium with the effects of magnetic field and chemical reaction is studied. The governing boundary layer equations (obtained with the Boussinesq approximation) are transformed into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations by using similarity transformation. The effects of various physical parameters are analyzed and discussed in graphical and tabular form. Comparison with published results is presented and we found an excellent agreement with it. Mainly, it found firstly, that an increase in magnetic parameter M decreases both the local Nusselt number and local Sherwood number. Secondly, a great order of the chemical reaction increases the Nusselt and Sherwood numbers.
Thermo-convective Study of a Shell and Tube Thermal Energy Storage Unit
Authors: Elmeriah Abderrahmane , Nehari Driss , Aichouni Mohamed
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we have studied numerically thermo-convective characteristics between a heat transfer fluid (HTF) and phase change material (PCM) in shell and tube thermal energy storage (TES) unit. The paraffin wax is considered as a PCM, filled in a shell which is thermally isolated with the external environment, while the water plays a role of a HTF and flows inside the tube at the moment of charging and discharging cycle. The heat transfer between HTF and PCM is performed by conduction and forced convection, this transfer allows to change the physical state of PCM solid-liquid to obtain a quantity of storable heat in order to create a thermal battery. Enthalpy formulation is used to analyze the heat transfer during melting and solidification process. A good agreement was found between our numerical predictions and the results of the literature. On the other hand, we have investigated the effect of geometrical parameters (tube length and shell diameter) and Reynolds number on the charging and discharging cycles. The obtained results reveal that the tube length and the shell diameter are the most influential parameters on the time of storage system. Similarly, the Reynolds number has much impact on the HTF outlet temperature and the time of solidification and melting process. Furthermore, we have proposed a new thermal storage unit containing the Paraffin wax and RT60 that it gives us a good rate and time of storage compared to the first unit that has only the paraffin wax.
Gentamicin in Newborn Sepsis: Once Daily Dose versus Twice Daily Dose
Authors: Shabuj Mohammad Kamrul Hassan , Moni Shadeka Chowdhury , Shaha Chandan Kumar , Shaha Sanjoy Kumar , Mannan Abdul , Shahidullah Md.
Published: February 2018

Gentamicin is commonly used as first line drug in neonatal sepsis. It is usually used in combination with other drugs. It is a nephrotoxic and an ototoxic drug. Long term use causes renal failure and hearing impairment. Its efficacy depends on the peak concentration, and its toxicity is related to the trough concentration. There is no set protocol of using gentamicin in neonate in Bangladesh, whether it should be used once daily or twice, it is till debatable in this perspective. In daily practice, it is not followed up trough and peak concentration of gentamicin, so it is not known the renal and hearing status of the baby treated with aminoglycosides. In this regard, primary objectives were to measure the peak level (to observe efficacy) and trough (to observe toxicity) level of gentamicin in once-daily dose (ODD) and in twice-daily dose (TDD) of gentamicin in neonates treated for suspected or culture proven sepsis and finally to assess the renal status and hearing status. This was an open label clinical trial, conducted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, during the period of March, 2012 to November, 2012. A total of 50 neonates were included in the study, 25 in ODD group and 25 in TDD group of gentamicin. Serum gentamicin peak and trough were measured in both groups. Mean gestational age were 38.85±1.21Wk and 38.83±1.16Wk in ODD and TDD respectively, and their corresponding mean weights were 2341.66±377 gram and 2307±363 gram. Only a fraction (12 % in ODD group 20% in TDD group) of patients had culture positive sepsis. The mean peak concentration of gentamicin was significantly higher (p value < 0.001) among neonates who received once-daily dose (7.19±1.7 microgram/ml) compare to patients who received the twice-daily dose (4.81±1.8 microgram/ml). The mean trough concentration of gentamicin was significantly lower (p value = 0.04) among neonates who received once-daily dose (1.5±0.78) compared to patients who received the twice-daily dose (2.00±0.9). Serum creatinine concentration raise was statistically non-significant in both group. Only 4% in ODD and 8% in TDD had ototoxicity which was non-significant finding. It may be concluded that ODD of gentamicin had significant higher concentration of peak and lower trough concentration, but no significant difference was in serum creatinine concentration and ototoxicity.
Potency Determination of Essential Drug Samples Manufactured By Medium and Small Pharmaceutical Industries in Bangladesh
Authors: Faruque ABM , Ononna Homaira Fatema , Al Hossain ASM Monjur , Ganguly Amlan
Published: February 2018

Drugs are considered highly essential and sensitive items for saving lives. Pharmaceutical sector in Bangladesh has grown from strength to strength over the last 40 years and evolved from an import dependent to self-reliant, export oriented sector. But counterfeit, adulterated and sub-standard drugs, though small in percentage, still remain to be a threat in the local market. The purpose of this study is to determine potency of some essential drugs, which are used vigorously by sub-urban and rural people and manufactured by randomly selected small and medium pharmaceutical industries of Bangladesh. The study revealed that the measured potency of different essential drugs manufactured by randomly selected small pharmaceutical industries is mostly unsatisfactory. Here, it has been found that most of the drug samples did not match with the acceptance level: the potency of Amoxicillin tryhydrate capsule has been found 8.25%, 47.9%, 51.1% 19.06%, 57.06% from five different pharmaceutical industries and for Diclofenac Sodium is 44.9%, 26.8%, 27.2%, 29.9%, 19.4%, 62.12%, 15.9% and 60.76% from eight different industries. So, the Drug Administration should have a strict monitoring and controlling mechanism to the distribution of those drugs, otherwise the overall public health of the country will be at stake.
Activity Characteristics of the East Asian Trough in CMIP5 Models
Authors: Chen Xiong , Liu Xing , Li Xin , Liu Mingyang , Yang Minghao
Published: February 2018

In this paper, the performances of 12 CMIP5 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5) models for simulating the climatology and interannual variability of the East Asian trough (EAT) are assessed using the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) reanalysis data and the outputs of the CMIP5 models. The multimodel ensemble (MME) successfully reproduces the spatial pattern and spatial variations in the climatology and interannual variability of the EAT but the intensity and interannual variability of EAT are weaker than in the observations. The biases in intensity (interannual variability) are larger over the southern (northern) part of the EAT than over the northern (southern) part. The intermodel spreads are small for the EAT intensity but are large for its location in terms of both latitude and longitude. The simulated EAT in the MME is about 3° E and 1.5° S of that observed. All 12 CMIP5 models reproduce the first empirical orthogonal function (EOF) mode of EAT activity; however, its intensity and location are only successfully captured in half of the models and its linear weakening trend is simulated in ten models. The second EOF mode of EAT activity and its linear strengthening trend are successfully reproduced in eight models.
Introduction to a New Open Access Journal by MDPI: Clean Technologies
Authors: Wang Shaobin
Published: February 2018

Nowadays, we are experiencing rapid economic and technological development all over the world[...]
Design of Nanostructured Functional Coatings by Using Wet-Chemistry Methods
Authors: Rivero Pedro , Garcia Jose , Quintana Iban , Rodriguez Rafael
Published: February 2018

This review reports the implementation of novel nanostructured functional coatings by using different surface engineering techniques based on wet chemistry. In the first section, the theoretical fundaments of three techniques such as sol-gel process, layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly and electrospinning will be briefly described. In the second section, selected applications in different potential fields will be presented gathering relevant properties such as superhydrophobicity, biocide behavior or applications in the field of optical fiber sensors.
Crystal Structure of Shigella flexneri SF173 Reveals a Dimeric Helical Bundle Conformation
Authors: Kim Ji-Hun , Won Hyung-Sik , Yoon Won-Su , Seok Seung-Hyeon , Jung Bong-Jun , Lee Seu-Na , Sim Dae-Won , Seo Min-Duk
Published: February 2018

We report the crystal structure and bioinformatic analysis of SF173, a functionally uncharacterized protein from the human enteropathogenic bacteria Shigella flexneri. The structure shows a tightly interlinked dimer formed by adimeric core comprising α2 and α3 helices from both subunits and swapping the N-terminal α1 helix of each monomer. Structural inspection and genomic analysis results suggest that the SF173 might play its putative function by binding to SF172, the partially overlapped upstream product in the operon. As YaeO (an SF172 orthologue) has been identified to be an inhibitor of the bacterial transcription terminator Rho protein, SF173 is suggested to be involved in the regulation of Rho-dependent transcription termination, by inhibiting the Rho protein binding to SF172/YaeO.
Effects of Harmful Algal Blooms on Fish: Insights from Prymnesium parvum
Authors: Svendsen Morten Bo Søndergaard , Andersen Nikolaj Reducha , Hansen Per Juel , Steffensen John Fleng
Published: February 2018

Blooms of the planktonic alga Prymnesium parvum pose a global threat, causing fish kills worldwide. Early studies on the exposure of fish to P. parvum indicate that toxic effects are related to gill damage. The more strictly defined concept of adverse outcome pathways has been suggested as a replacement for the mode of action in toxicology studies. In this study, rainbow trout (Onchorhyncus mykiss) were exposed to P. parvum. During exposure, oxygen consumption was determined by respirometry, and ventilation and coughing rate were determined via video surveillance. Per breath oxygen consumption was calculated to assess the ventilation effort to obtain a unit of oxygen. A second experiment monitored fish behavior to assess recovery. The results indicated that oxygen consumption initially increased, but on average fell below the standard oxygen consumption at 70% relative exposure. Being a function of ventilation frequency and oxygen consumption, the per breath oxygen consumption decreased throughout exposure. Behavioral results determined that short-term P. parvum exposure subsequently caused the exposed fish to seek flow refuge immediately and to a greater extent than unexposed fish. The adverse outcome pathway of P. parvum on rainbow trout is that P. parvum acts as a gill irritant resulting in non-recoverable respiratory failure.
Differential Expression of Six Rnase2 and Three Rnase3 Paralogs Identified in Blunt Snout Bream in Response to Aeromonas hydrophila Infection
Authors: Geng Ruijing , Liu Han , Wang Weimin
Published: February 2018

Ribonucleases (Rnases)2 and Rnase3 belong to the ribonuclease A (RnaseA) superfamily. Apart from their role in molecular evolutionary and functional biological studies, these genes have also been studied in the context of defense against pathogen infection in mammals. However, expression patterns, structures and response to bacterial infection of the two genes in blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) remain unknown. In this study, we identified multiple copies of Rnase2 (six) and Rnase3 (three) in the M. amblycephala genome. The nine genes all possess characteristics typical of the RnaseA superfamily. No expression was detected in the early developmental stages, while a weak expression was observed at 120 and 140 h post-fertilization (hpf) for Rnase2b, Rnase2c, Rnase2e and Rnase3a, suggesting that only three copies of Rnase2 and one of Rnase3 are expressed. Interestingly, only Rnase2e was up-regulated in the kidney of M. amblycephala after Aeromonas hydrophila infection, while Rnase3a was significantly up-regulated in liver, gut and blood after the infection. We conclude that the paralogs of Rnase3 are more susceptible to A. hydrophila infection than Rnase2. These results indicate that different Rnase2 and Rnase3 paralogs suggest a role in the innate immune response of M. amblycephala to bacterial infection.
An Exploration of Underrepresentation of Aboriginal Cancer Patients Attending a Regional Radiotherapy Service in Western Australia
Authors: Lyford Marilyn , Haigh Margaret , Baxi Siddhartha , Cheetham Shelley , Shahid Shaouli , Thompson Sandra
Published: February 2018

Travel logistics impede Aboriginal patients’ uptake of cancer treatments and is one reason for the poorer outcomes of Aboriginal people with cancer. This research examined benefits of a newly established rurally based radiotherapy unit in southwest Western Australia (WA), and included exploring the experience of Aboriginal patients and possible reasons for Aboriginal people’s underrepresentation in treatment. Semi-structured in-depth interviews with 21 service providers involved in the treatment and care of people with cancer, and 3 Aboriginal patients with cancer who undertook radiotherapy at the Service were undertaken. Data were subject to thematic analysis involving immersion in the data for familiarization, inductive coding, investigator discussion and refining of emerging themes and triangulation of patient and provider interviews. Aboriginal cancer patients were positive about the treatment and support they had received, highlighting the often complex challenges faced by rural Aboriginal cancer patients in accessing and maintaining treatment. Service providers offered suggestions for small numbers presenting to the Service, including late presentation, potential perceptions of cultural insensitivity on the part of service providers, out-of-pocket costs and under-ascertainment of Aboriginal status. The Service has put in place practices and initiatives to support patient health and wellbeing, including making the facility more welcoming towards Aboriginal people and ensuring culturally appropriate care.
Cationic Protic Imidazolylidene NHC Complexes of Cp*IrCl+ and Cp*RhCl+ with a Pyridyl Tether Formed at Ambient Temperature
Authors: Grotjahn Douglas , Martin Jessica , Tom Taylon , Rheingold Arnold
Published: February 2018

Protic NHC (PNHC) complexes with N1H, N2-alkyl/aryl imidazolylidene ligands are relatively rare, and routes for their synthesis differ from what is used to make non-protic analogs. Prior work from our group and others showed that in the presence of a tethering ligand (phosphine or in one case, pyridine), CpM and Cp*M (M = Ir, Ru) PNHC complexes could be made by heating. Here, we find that the use of ionizing agents to activate [Cp*MIIICl(μ-Cl)]2 (M = Ir, Rh) allows for what we believe is unprecedented ambient temperature formation of PNHC complexes from neutral imidazoles; the product complexes are able to perform transfer hydrogenation.
A Point Mutation V419L in the Sodium Channel Gene from Natural Populations of Aedes aegypti Is Involved in Resistance to λ-Cyhalothrin in Colombia
Authors: Granada Yurany , Mejía-Jaramillo Ana , Strode Clare , Triana-Chavez Omar
Published: February 2018

Resistance to pyrethroids in mosquitoes is mainly caused by target site insensitivity known as knockdown resistance (kdr). In this work, we examined the point mutations present in portions of domains I, II, III, and IV of the sodium channel gene in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes from three Colombian municipalities. A partial region coding for the sodium channel gene from resistant mosquitoes was sequenced, and a simple allele-specific PCR-based assay (AS-PCR) was used to analyze mutations at the population level. The previously reported mutations, V1016I and F1534C, were found with frequencies ranging from 0.04 to 0.41, and 0.56 to 0.71, respectively, in the three cities. Moreover, a novel mutation, at 419 codon (V419L), was found in Ae. aegypti populations from Bello, Riohacha and Villavicencio cities with allelic frequencies of 0.06, 0.36, and 0.46, respectively. Interestingly, the insecticide susceptibility assays showed that mosquitoes from Bello were susceptible to λ-cyhalothrin pyrethroid whilst those from Riohacha and Villavicencio were resistant. A positive association between V419L and V1016I mutations with λ-cyhalothrin resistance was established in Riohacha and Villavicencio. The frequency of the F1534C was high in the three populations, suggesting that this mutation could be conferring resistance to insecticides other than λ-cyhalothrin, particularly type I pyrethroids. Further studies are required to confirm this hypothesis.
The Preparation and Optical Properties of Novel LiLa(MoO4)2:Sm3+,Eu3+ Red Phosphor
Authors: Wang Jiaxi , Luo Li , Huang Baoyu , He Jingqi , Zhang Wei , Zhao Weiren , Wang Jianqing
Published: February 2018

Novel LiLa1−x−y(MoO4)2:xSm3+,yEu3+ (in short: LL1−x−yM:xSm3+,yEu3+) double molybdate red phosphors were synthesized by a solid-state reaction at as low temperature as 610 °C. The optimal doping concentration of Sm3+ in LiLa1−x(MoO4)2:xSm3+ (LL1−xM:xSm3+) phosphor is x = 0.05 and higher concentrations lead to emission quenching by the electric dipole—electric dipole mechanism. In the samples co-doped with Eu3+ ions, the absorption spectrum in the near ultraviolet and blue regions became broader and stronger than these of the Sm3+ single-doped samples. The efficient energy transfer from Sm3+ to Eu3+ was found and the energy transfer efficiency was calculated. Under the excitation at 403 nm, the chromaticity coordinates of LL0.95−yM:0.05Sm3+,yEu3+ approach to the NTSC standard values (0.670, 0.330) continuously with increasing Eu3+ doping concentration. The phosphor exhibits high luminous efficiency under near UV or blue light excitation and remarkable thermal stability. At 150 °C, the integrated emission intensity of the Eu3+ remained 85% of the initial intensity at room temperature and the activation energy is calculated to be 0.254 eV. The addition of the LL0.83M:0.05Sm3+,0.12Eu3+ red phosphors can improve the color purity and reduce the correlated color temperature of WLED lamps. Hence, LL1−x−yM:xSm3+,yEu3+ is a promising WLED red phosphor.
Adsorption Behavior of Selective Recognition Functionalized Biochar to Cd(II) in Wastewater
Authors: Zhang Shiqiu , Yang Xue , Liu Le , Ju Meiting , Zheng Kui
Published: February 2018

Biochar is an excellent absorbent for most heavy metal ions and organic pollutants with high specific surface area, strong aperture structure, high stability, higher cation exchange capacity and rich surface functional groups. To improve the selective adsorption capacity of biochar to designated heavy metal ions, biochar prepared by agricultural waste is modified via Ionic-Imprinted Technique. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of imprinted biochar (IB) indicate that 3-Mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane is grafted on biochar surface through Si–O–Si bonds. The results of adsorption experiments indicate that the suitable pH range is about 3.0–8.0, the dosage is 2.0 g·L−1, and the adsorption equilibrium is reached within 960 min. In addition, the data match pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir model well. The computation results of adsorption thermodynamics and stoichiometric displacement theory of adsorption (SDT-A) prove that the adsorption process is spontaneous and endothermic. Finally, IB possesses a higher selectivity adsorption to Cd(II) and a better reuse capacity. The functionalized biochar could solidify designated ions stably.
Antibacterial Peptides in Dermatology–Strategies for Evaluation of Allergic Potential
Authors: Deptuła Milena , Wardowska Anna , Dzierżyńska Maria , Rodziewicz-Motowidło Sylwia , Pikuła Michał
Published: February 2018

During recent decades, the market for peptide-based drugs, including antimicrobial peptides, has vastly extended and evolved. These drugs can be useful in treatment of various types of disorders, e.g., cancer, autoimmune diseases, infections, and non-healing wounds. Although peptides are less immunogenic than other biologic therapeutics, they can still induce immune responses and cause allergies. It is important to evaluate the immunogenic and allergic potential of peptides before they are forwarded to the expensive stages of clinical trials. The process of the evaluation of immunogenicity and cytotoxicity is complicated, as in vitro models and bioinformatics tools cannot fully simulate situations in the clinic. Nevertheless, several potentially promising tests for the preclinical evaluation of peptide drugs have been implemented (e.g., cytotoxicity assays, the basophil activation test, and lymphocyte activation assays). In this review, we focus on strategies for evaluation of the allergic potential of peptide-based therapeutics.
4-Thiazolidinone Derivatives as MMP Inhibitors in Tissue Damage: Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Docking Studies
Authors: Incerti Matteo , Crascì Lucia , Vicini Paola , Aki Esin , Yalcin Ismail , Ertan-Bolelli Tugba , Cardile Venera , Graziano Adriana , Panico Annamaria
Published: February 2018

Nine 2-(1,2-benzothiazol-3-yl)-N-(4-oxo-2-phenyl-1,3-thiazolidin-3-yl)propanamides combining a benzisothiazole and 4-thiazolidinone in one framework were designed and synthesized. The aim of the study was to verify their effectiveness to affect the inflammatory/oxidative process in which free oxygen and nitrite (ROS and RNS) radicals, inflammatory mediators, such as nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved. Docking studies of all the compounds were performed in order to explore their binding mode at the MMP-9 protein. An appreciable anti-inflammatory/potential wound healing effects of the tested compounds was highlighted. Derivative 23, bearing a 4-carboxyphenyl substituent at C2 of the 4-thiazolidinone ring, exhibited the highest activity, being able to inhibit MMP-9 at nanomolar level(IC50 = 40 nM).
Identification of Bichalcones as Sirtuin Inhibitors by Virtual Screening and In Vitro Testing
Authors: Karaman Berin , Alhalabi Zayan , Swyter Sören , Mihigo Shetonde , Andrae-Marobela Kerstin , Jung Manfred , Sippl Wolfgang , Ntie-Kang Fidele
Published: February 2018

Sirtuins are nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-dependent class III histone deacetylases, which have been linked to the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, including HIV, metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration and cancer. Docking of the virtual pan-African natural products library (p-ANAPL), followed by in vitro testing, resulted in the identification of two inhibitors of sirtuin 1, 2 and 3 (sirt1–3). Two bichalcones, known as rhuschalcone IV (8) and an analogue of rhuschalcone I (9), previously isolated from the medicinal plant Rhus pyroides, were shown to be active in the in vitro assay. The rhuschalcone I analogue (9) showed the best activity against sirt1, with an IC50 value of 40.8 µM. Based on the docking experiments, suggestions for improving the biological activities of the newly identified hit compounds have been provided.
Comparison of Conventional and Microwave Assisted Heating on Carbohydrate Content, Antioxidant Capacity and Postprandial Glycemic Response in Oat Meals
Authors: Harasym Joanna , Olędzki Remigiusz
Published: February 2018

Minimally processed cereal breakfast products from whole grain entered the market due to consumer demand of more nutritional food with more controlled sugar release. However, the subsequent processing of such products with different cooking methods in the consumer’s kitchen may lead to significant differentiation of their nutritional value. Therefore, the evaluation of the impact of frequently used cooking methods on a final quality of breakfast cereals meal is needed. The present study investigates how the two different methods of heating, conventional and microwave (MW) assisted, affect the carbohydrate content, profile and resulting glycemic index of so prepared food as well as the antioxidant activity of meals. Two products available on the market—oat bran and flakes—were used. The highest starch content in fluid phase of oatmeal was detected in samples heated for 3 min with microwaves, regardless the type. The lowest starch content was obtained for 5 min MW heated flakes sample. The total content of glucose was about 1.5 times lower in bran vs. flakes oatmeal. The highest β-glucan content in fluid fraction was also observed for bran meal but its release was independent of applied conditions.
Calcium Chloride and Calcium Gluconate in Neonatal Parenteral Nutrition Solutions without Cysteine: Compatibility Studies Using Laser Light Obscuration Methodology
Authors: Huston Robert , Christensen J. , Alshahrani Sultan , Mohamed Sumeia , Heisel Carl
Published: February 2018

There are no compatibility studies for neonatal parenteral nutrition solutions without cysteine containing calcium chloride or calcium gluconate using light obscuration as recommended by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). The purpose of this study was to do compatibility testing for solutions containing calcium chloride and calcium gluconate without cysteine. Solutions of TrophAmine and Premasol (2.5% amino acids), containing calcium chloride or calcium gluconate were compounded without cysteine. Solutions were analyzed for particle counts using light obscuration. Maximum concentrations tested were 15 mmol/L of calcium and 12.5 mmol/L of phosphate. If the average particle count of three replicates exceeded USP guidelines, the solution was determined to be incompatible. This study found that 12.5 and 10 mmol/L of calcium and phosphate, respectively, are compatible in neonatal parenteral nutrition solutions compounded with 2.5% amino acids of either TrophAmine or Premasol. There did not appear to be significant differences in compatibility for solutions containing TrophAmine or Premasol when solutions were compounded with either CaCl2 or CaGlu-Pl. This study presents data in order to evaluate options for adding calcium and phosphate to neonatal parenteral nutrition solutions during shortages of calcium and cysteine.
Conjugate of PAMAM Dendrimer, Doxorubicin and Monoclonal Antibody—Trastuzumab: The New Approach of a Well-Known Strategy
Authors: Marcinkowska Monika , Sobierajska Ewelina , Stanczyk Maciej , Janaszewska Anna , Chworos Arkadiusz , Klajnert-Maculewicz Barbara
Published: February 2018

The strategy utilizing trastuzumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against human epidermal growth receptor 2 (HER-2), as a therapeutic agent in HER-2 positive breast cancer therapy seems to have advantage over traditional chemotherapy, especially when given in combination with anticancer drugs. However, the effectiveness of single antibody or antibody conjugated with chemotherapeutics is still far from ideal. Antibody–dendrimer conjugates hold the potential to improve the targeting and release of active substance at the tumor site. In the present study, we developed and synthesized PAMAM dendrimer–trastuzumab conjugates carrying doxorubicin (dox) specifically to cells overexpressing HER-2. 1HNMR, FTIR and RP-HPLC were used to characterize the products and analyze their purity. Toxicity of PAMAM–trastuzumab and PAMAM–dox–trastuzumab conjugates compared with free trastuzumab and doxorubicin towards HER-2 positive (SKBR-3) and negative (MCF-7) human breast cancer cell lines was determined using MTT assay. Furthermore, the cellular uptake and cellular localization were studied by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy, respectively. A cytotoxicity profile of above mentioned compounds indicated that conjugate PAMAM–dox–trastuzumab was more effective when compared to free drug or the conjugate PAMAM–trastuzumab. Moreover, these results reveal that trastuzumab can be used as a targeting agent in PAMAM–dox–trastuzumab conjugate. Therefore PAMAM–dox–trastuzumab conjugate might be an interesting proposition which could lead to improvements in the effectiveness of drug delivery systems for tumors that overexpress HER-2.
Building Adaptive Capacity in Changing Social-Ecological Systems: Integrating Knowledge in Communal Land-Use Planning in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Rodríguez Lily , Cisneros Elías , Pequeño Tatiana , Fuentes Maria , Zinngrebe Yves
Published: February 2018

Building resilient sustainable social-ecological systems (SES) requires communities to enhance their adaptive capacities. Communal participative land-use planning (Zonificación Participativa Comunal—ZPC) is a tool designed for communities to integrating local and scientific knowledge to sustainably organize and manage their SES. Between 2006 and 2011, a ZPC was developed with communities in the buffer zone of Cordillera Azul National Park (Peru), where rapid demographic changes are converting pre-montane seasonally dry forest into agricultural land. Herein, we analyse how the ZPC enhanced adaptive capacity, enabling the SES to cope with environmental, political and economic changes. Based on qualitative, semi-structured interviews, communities are analysed along their capacities in the dimensions social capital, learning, adaptive management and governance. An analysis of yearly high-resolution forest cover data supports our findings. Deforestation activities in biologically sensitive zones decreased rapidly during the time of the ZPC implementation. We find that particularly the long-term presence of the bridging institution and the continuous testing and reflection of the integrated “hybrid knowledge” enabled communities to develop adaptive capacities. The analysis of ZPC our results reveals the enabling conditions for promoting the learning process to develop a sustainable land-use management in the context of migration and rapid changes.
An Effective Financial Statements Fraud Detection Model for the Sustainable Development of Financial Markets: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Jan Chyan-long
Published: February 2018

This study aims to establish a rigorous and effective model to detect enterprises’ financial statements fraud for the sustainable development of enterprises and financial markets. The research period is 2004–2014 and the sample is companies listed on either the Taiwan Stock Exchange or the Taipei Exchange, with a total of 160 companies (including 40 companies reporting financial statements fraud). This study adopts multiple data mining techniques. In the first stage, an artificial neural network (ANN) and a support vector machine (SVM) are deployed to screen out important variables. In the second stage, four types of decision trees (classification and regression tree (CART), chi-square automatic interaction detector (CHAID), C5.0, and quick unbiased efficient statistical tree (QUEST)) are constructed for classification. Both financial and non-financial variables are selected, in order to build a highly accurate model to detect fraudulent financial reporting. The empirical findings show that the variables screened with ANN and processed by CART (the ANN + CART model) yields the best classification results, with an accuracy of 90.83% in the detection of financial statements fraud.
A Dynamic Analysis of Green Productivity Growth for Cities in Xinjiang
Authors: Li Deshan , Wu Rongwei
Published: February 2018

Improving green productivity is an important way to achieve sustainable development. In this paper, we use the Global Malmquist-Luenberger (GML) index to measure and decompose the green productivity growth of 18 cities in Xinjiang over 2000–2015. Furthermore, this study also explores factors influencing urban green productivity growth. Our results reveal that the urban green productivity in Xinjiang has slowly declined during the sample period. Technological progress is the main factor contributing to green productivity growth, while improvements in efficiency lag behind. Implementing stricter environmental regulation, improving infrastructure, and appropriately enhancing the spatial agglomeration of economic activities may improve green productivity, while the increase in the size of the industrial base in the near future will likely hinder green productivity growth. Based on these results, this paper puts forward corresponding policy suggestions for the sustainable development of the urban economy in Xinjiang.
Occurrence of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) and Isomers in Aquatic Environments and Aquatic Food Sources for Humans
Authors: Lance Emilie , Arnich Nathalie , Maignien Thomas , Biré Ronel
Published: February 2018

The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA), a non-protein amino acid produced by terrestrial and aquatic cyanobacteria and by micro-algae, has been suggested to play a role as an environmental factor in the neurodegenerative disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Parkinsonism-Dementia complex (ALS-PDC). The ubiquitous presence of BMAA in aquatic environments and organisms along the food chain potentially makes it public health concerns. However, the BMAA-associated human health risk remains difficult to rigorously assess due to analytical challenges associated with the detection and quantification of BMAA and its natural isomers, 2,4-diamino butyric acid (DAB), β-amino-N-methyl-alanine (BAMA) and N-(2-aminoethyl) glycine (AEG). This systematic review, reporting the current knowledge on the presence of BMAA and isomers in aquatic environments and human food sources, was based on a selection and a score numbering of the scientific literature according to various qualitative and quantitative criteria concerning the chemical analytical methods used. Results from the best-graded studies show that marine bivalves are to date the matrix containing the higher amount of BMAA, far more than most fish muscles, but with an exception for shark cartilage. This review discusses the available data in terms of their use for human health risk assessment and identifies knowledge gaps requiring further investigations.
Mosquitoes as Suitable Vectors for Alphaviruses
Authors: Lim Elisa , Lee Wai , Madzokere Eugene , Herrero Lara
Published: February 2018

Alphaviruses are arthropod-borne viruses and are predominantly transmitted via mosquito vectors. This vector preference by alphaviruses raises the important question of the determinants that contribute to vector competence. There are several tissue barriers of the mosquito that the virus must overcome in order to establish a productive infection. Of importance are the midgut, basal lamina and the salivary glands. Infection of the salivary glands is crucial for virus transmission during the mosquito’s subsequent bloodfeed. Other factors that may contribute to vector competence include the microflora and parasites present in the mosquito, environmental conditions, the molecular determinants of the virus to adapt to the vector, as well as the effect of co-infection with other viruses. Though mosquito innate immunity is a contributing factor to vector competence, it will not be discussed in this review. Detailed understanding of these factors will be instrumental in minimising transmission of alphaviral diseases.
Plague violence and abandonment from the Black Death to the early modern period
Authors: Cohn Jr. Samuel
Published: February 2018

La Peste Noire de 1347-1351 a été une si grande menace, que son ombre inquiétante aurait déterminé un ensemble de réactions sociales et psychologiques auxquelles seraient soumises toutes les populations confrontées aux épidémies de peste, non seulement celles du bas Moyen Âge, mais aussi toutes les autres, quels que soient le lieu ou l’époque. Cet article entend discuter cette vérité communément admise. En effet, non seulement ces répercussions immédiates de la peste – telles que l’immolation par le feu de Juifs ou le mouvements des Flagellants – ont été des réactions de courte durée ; mais les sentiments de peur et d’écœurement – parce qu’on avait préféré s’enfuir en abandonnant ses proches, malades, à des médecins qui eux-mêmes fuyaient l’épidémie – s’avèrent très répandus d’après des chroniques que l’on trouve de la Pologne à l’Irlande et de la Sicile à l’Écosse. Cependant, en analysant ces chroniques et d’autres genres littéraires, on constate que ces craintes n’étaient pas les topoi décrits par l’historiographie récente. Ces œuvres montrent, au contraire, une large palette d’expressions, de sentiments et d’explications. Non seulement, les récits d’immolation de Juifs et de fuite s’interrompent brutalement après 1348, mais ceux mettant en scène des membres d’une famille fuyant les étreintes des êtres chers en temps de peste, sont devenus extrêmement rares dans les chroniques de la période moderne. Les auteurs insistent plutôt sur les étonnantes solidarités dont font preuve les communautés affectées par des épidémies de peste aux xvi e - xviii e siècles.
L’aggiornamento d’un département d’économie
Authors: Le Gall Brice
Published: February 2018

Cet article étudie la façon dont la gestion a phagocyté les savoirs économiques critiques à l’université. En nous appuyant sur le cas d’un département, l’analyse révèle que l’intensification de la concurrence entre formations économiques et la réorientation des flux étudiants sont au principe d’un déclin structural de l’institution qui a été interprété par les enseignants comme une crise des vocations pour l’économie critique. Combinées aux recompositions du corps enseignant (liées aux modes de génération des générations), ces transformations permettent de comprendre plusieurs conversions à la gestion et donc pourquoi les prises de position sur l’enseignement ne sont pas nécessairement ajustées aux orientations scientifiques et politiques des économistes.
La noblesse scientifique
Authors: Blanchard Marianne , Orange Sophie , Pierrel Arnaud
Published: February 2018

La production d’une « noblesse scientifique », à travers les concours scientifiques de l’ENS, et, en amont, pendant les deux ou trois années de classes préparatoires aux grandes écoles (CPGE) scientifiques, produit un ordre scolaire, non seulement social mais aussi sexué. Les mécanismes qui président au maintien de ces bastions de l’élitisme scolaire comme entre-soi bourgeois et masculin sont ici analysés à l’aune de la définition de l’excellence scolaire qui y a cours, à partir d’une enquête par questionnaire conduite auprès de 2 270 élèves de classes préparatoires scientifiques. Dans ces classes, les caractéristiques du bon élève de lycée ne constituent que des conditions nécessaires de la réussite scolaire, non des conditions suffisantes. Ces dernières sont alors à trouver dans un ensemble de qualités naturalisées esquissant une idéologie du don. Celle-ci se voit intériorisée par les élèves et l’urgence scolaire caractéristique des CPGE la justifie sous couvert de l’impliquer.