bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Universal Quantum Computing and Three-Manifolds
Authors: Planat Michel , Aschheim Raymond , Amaral Marcelo , Irwin Klee
Published: October 2018

A single qubit may be represented on the Bloch sphere or similarly on the $3$-sphere $S^3$. Our goal is to dress this correspondence by converting the language of universal quantum computing (uqc) to that of $3$-manifolds. A magic state and the Pauli group acting on it define a model of uqc as a POVM that one recognizes to be a $3$-manifold $M^3$. E. g., the $d$-dimensional POVMs defined from subgroups of finite index of the modular group $PSL(2,\mathbb{Z})$ correspond to $d$-fold $M^3$- coverings over the trefoil knot. In this paper, one also investigates quantum information on a few \lq universal' knots and links such as the figure-of-eight knot, the Whitehead link and Borromean rings, making use of the catalog of platonic manifolds available on SnapPy. Further connections between POVMs based uqc and $M^3$'s obtained from Dehn fillings are explored.
Street Dust - Bound Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Saudi Coastal City: Status, Profile, Sources, and Human Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Shabbaj Ibrahim I. , Alghamdi Mansour A. , Khoder Mamdouh I.
Published: October 2018

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in street dust pose a serious problem threatening both environment and human health. Street dust were collected from five different land use patterns (traffic areas TRA, urban area URA, residential areas REA, mixed residential commercial areas MCRA and suburban areas SUA) in a Saudi coastal city, Jeddah, and one in rural area (RUA) in Hada Al Sham. This study aimed to investigate the status, profile, sources of PAHs and estimate their human health risk. The results revealed an average concentration of total PAHs of 3320 ng/g in street dust of Jeddah and 223 ng/g in RUA dust. PAHs with high molecular weight represented 83.38% of total PAHs in street dust of Jeddah, while the carcinogenic PAH compounds accounted 57.84%. The highest average concentration of total PAHs in street dust of Jeddah was found in TRA (4980 ng/g) and the lowest in REA (1660 ng/g). PAHs ratios indicated that the principal source of PAHs in street dust of Jeddah is pyrogenic, mainly traffic emission. Benzo(a)anthracene/ chrysene (BaA/CHR) ratio suggests that PAHs in street dusts of Jeddah come mainly from emission of local sources, while PAHs in RUA might be transported from the surrounding urban areas. The estimated Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) associated with exposure to PAHs in street dusts indicated that both dermal contact and ingestion pathways are major contributed to cancer risk for both children and adults. Based on BaPequivalence concentrations of total PAHs, ILCRIngestion, ILCRdermal and cancer risk values for children and adults exposed to PAHs in street dust of different areas in Jeddah were found between 10−6 and 10−4, indicating potential risk. The sequence of cancer risk was TRA > URA > MCRA > SUA > REA. Only exposure to BaP and DBA compounds had potential risk for both children and adults.
Constitutional Mosaicism in RASA1-Related Capillary Malformation-Arteriovenous Malformation (CM-AVM)
Authors: Gordo Gema , Rodriguez-Laguna Lara , Agra Noelia , Mendez Pilar , Feito Marta , Lapunzina Pablo , Lopez-Gutierrez Juan C. , Martinez-Glez Victor
Published: October 2018

Introduction: Capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation (CM-AVM; MIM#608354) is caused by germline RASA1 and EPHB4 alterations. RASA1 intralesional second hits have also been reported. Constitutional mosaicism, defined as the presence of a mosaic variant in all cell types of an individual, is detected in clinical practice as mosaic variants in multiple tested samples from one individual or as mosaic variants in blood samples in a disorder affecting another cell/tissue types. Here we report RASA1 constitutional mosaicism in CM-AVM. Subjects and methods: A custom high-throughput sequencing panel was used to search for RASA1 pathogenic variants in blood samples from two unrelated patients with a clinical diagnosis of CM-AVM. An affected tissue sample from one of the patients was also analyzed. Results: Both patients showed different nonsense RASA1 variants in mosaic in blood samples and in the corresponding affected tissue sample from one of the patients. The mosaicism ranged between 7% and 21,5%. Conclusions: We report for the first time the presence of RASA1 constitutional mosaicism in CM-AVM. Constitutional mosaicism has implications for accurate molecular diagnosis and recurrence risk, and helps to explain the great phenotypic variability in CM-AVM.
A Web-Based Calculator for Prediction of Severe Neurodevelopmental Impairment in Preterm Infants Using Clinical and Imaging Characteristics
Authors: Vesoulis Zachary A. , El Ters Nathalie M. , Herco Maja , Whitehead Halana V. , Mathur Amit M.
Published: October 2018

Although the most common forms of brain injury in preterm infants have been associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes, existing MRI scoring systems lack specificity, do not incorporate clinical factors, and are technically challenging to perform. The objective of this study was to develop a web-based, clinically-focused prediction system which differentiates severe from normal-moderate neurodevelopmental outcomes at two years.  Infants were retrospectively identified as those who were born ≤30 weeks gestation, had MR imaging at term-equivalent age, and neurodevelopmental testing at 18-24 months.  Each MRI was scored on injury in three domains (intraventricular hemorrhage, white matter injury, and cerebellar hemorrhage) and clinical factors strongly predictive of outcome were investigated.  A binary logistic regression model was then generated from the composite of clinical and imaging components.  A total of 154 infants were included (mean GA = 26.1±1.8 weeks, BW = 889.1±226.2 grams).  The final model (imaging score + ventilator days + delivery mode + antenatal steroids + ROP requiring surgery) had strong discriminatory power for severe disability (AUC=0.850), with a PPV of 76% and NPV of 90%.  Available as a web-based tool, it can be useful for prognostication and targeting early intervention services to infants who may benefit most from such services.
Impacts of Water Hyacinth Treatment on Water Quality in a Tidal Estuarine Environment
Authors: Tobias Vanessa D. , Conrad J. Louise , Mahardja Brian , Khanna Shruti
Published: October 2018

Water hyacinth is a major invasive species that has modified ecosystem functioning in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta (hereafter, Delta). Studies in lakes and rivers have shown that water hyacinth can alter water quality. In tidal systems, such as the Delta, water moves back and forth through the water hyacinth patch so water quality directly outside the patch in either direction is likely to be directly influenced by the patch. In this study, we asked whether the presence or treatment of water hyacinth with herbicides resulted in changes in water quality in this tidal freshwater system. We combined existing datasets that were originally collected for permit compliance and for long-term regional monitoring into a dataset that we analyzed with a before-after control-impact (BACI) framework. This approach allowed us to describe the effects of presence as well as treatment of water hyacinth, while accounting for seasonal patterns in water quality. We focused on temperature, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity because these water quality parameters have been shown to be important drivers in the distribution of fish species of management concern. We found that although effects of treatment were not detectable when compared with water immediately upstream, dissolved oxygen and turbidity became more similar to regional water quality averages after treatment. Temperature became less similar to the regional average after treatment, but the magnitude of the change was small. Taken together, these results suggest that tidal hydrology exports the effects of water hyacinth upstream as well as downstream, creating a buffer of altered water chemistry around patches. It also suggests that although water hyacinth has an effect on dissolved oxygen and turbidity, these parameters recover to regional averages after treatment.
Sodium Levels of Processed Meat in Australia: Supermarket Survey Data from 2010 to 2017
Authors: Sparks Emalie , Farrand Clare , Santos Joseph Alvin , McKenzie Briar , Trieu Kathy , Reimers Jenny , Davidson Chelsea , Johnson Claire , Webster Jacqui
Published: October 2018

High sodium intake increases blood pressure and consequently increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In Australia, the best estimate of sodium intake is 3840 mg sodium/day, almost double the World Health Organization guideline (2000 mg/day), and processed meats contribute approximately 10% of daily sodium intake to the diet. This study assessed the median sodium levels of 2510 processed meat products, including bacon and sausages, available in major Australian supermarkets in 2010, 2013, 2015 and 2017, and assessed changes over time. The median sodium content of processed meats in 2017 was 775 mg/100 g (IQR 483–1080). There was an 11% reduction in the median sodium level of processed meats for which targets were set under the government’s Food and Health Dialogue (p < 0.001). This includes bacon, ham/cured meat products, sliced luncheon meat and meat with pastry categories. There was no change in processed meats without a target (median difference 6%, p = 0.093). The new targets proposed by the current government’s Healthy Food Partnership, capture a larger proportion of products than the Food and Health Dialogue (66% compared to 36%) and a lower proportion of products are at or below the target (35% compared to 54%). These results demonstrate that voluntary government targets can drive nutrient reformulation. Future efforts will require strong government leadership and robust monitoring and evaluation systems.
Dehydration and Malnutrition in Residential Care: Recommendations for Strategies for Improving Practice Derived from a Scoping Review of Existing Policies and Guidelines
Authors: Bunn Diane , Hooper Lee , Welch Ailsa
Published: October 2018

Preventing malnutrition and dehydration in older care home residents is complex, with both conditions remaining prevalent, despite numerous guidelines spanning several decades. This policy-mapping scoping review used snowballing search methods to locate publicly-available policies, reports and best practice guidelines relating to hydration and nutrition in UK residential care homes, to describe the existing knowledge base and pinpoint gaps in practice, interpretation and further investigation. Findings were synthesised narratively to identify solutions. Strategies for improvements to nutritional and hydration care include: development of age and population-specific nutrient and fluid intake guidelines; statutory regulation, contractual obligations for commissioners, appropriate menu-planning, implementation and auditing of care, acknowledgment of residents’ eating and drinking experiences, effective screening, monitoring and treatment and staff training. The considerable body of existing knowledge is failing to influence practice, relating to translational issues of implementing knowledge into care at the point of delivery, and this is where future research and actions should focus.
Preparation of PdO Doped on Bentonite as Catalyst for Friedel-Craft Acylation Reaction of Aromatic Compounds and the Investigation of the Reaction Mechanism
Authors: Kurniawan Yehezkiel Steven , Imawan Arif Cahyo , Stansyah Yoeretisa Miggia , Wahyuningsih Tutik Dwi
Published: October 2018

Catalyst material plays a pivotal role in the pharmaceutical industry process. Among them, Friedel-Craft acylation reaction is a well-known reaction to synthesis acetophenone derivatives. However, Friedel-Craft acylation mostly used acetyl chloride as starting material with Lewis acid as homogeneous catalyst, which is nonenvironmental friendly process. In this work, a simple and efficient Friedel-Craft acylation reaction is reported by using the palladium oxide doped on activated bentonite (PdOAB) as the heterogeneous catalyst. The PdOAB catalyst material was characterized with scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), nitrogen isotherm adsorption, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). The acetophenone derivatives with R = -H, -Cl, -CH3, -OCH3, -OH and -NH2 at para position were successfully synthesized from its corresponding aromatic compounds with glacial acetic acid in 86.6, 7.9, 91.7, 86.6, 82.7, and 78.9% yield, respectively. Therefore, a green method was established because the byproduct is water and the catalyst material can be recovered. Furthermore, the substituent (σ) constants were obtained by using Hammet equation, and the catalysis mechanism has been proposed.
Catechol 1,2-Dioxygenase is an Analogue of Homogentisate 1,2-Dioxygenase in Pseudomonas Chlororaphis Strain UFB2
Authors: Setlhare Boitumelo , Kumar Ajit , Mokoena Mduduzi P. , Olaniran Ademola O.
Published: October 2018

Catechol dioxygenases in microorganisms cleave catechol into cis-cis-muconic acid or 2-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde via the ortho- or meta-pathway, respectively. The aim of the study was to purify, characterize and predict template-based three-dimensional structure of catechol 1,2-dioxygenase (C12O) from indigenous Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain UFB2 (PcUFB2). Preliminary studies showed that PcUFB2 could degrade 40 ppm of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP). The crude cell extract showed 10.34 U/mL of C12O activity with a specific activity of 2.23 U/mg of protein. A 35 kDa protein was purified to 1.5-fold with total yield of 13.02 % by applying anion exchange and gel filtration chromatography. The enzyme was optimally active at pH 7.5 and temperature 30 °C. The Lineweaver-Burk plot showed the vmax and Km values of 16.67 µM/min and 35.76 µM, respectively. ES-MS spectra of tryptic digested SDS-PAGE band and bioinformatics studies revealed that C12O share 81% homology to homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase reported in other Pseudomonas chlororaphis strains. Characterization and optimization of C12O activity can assist in understanding the 2,4-DCP metabolic pathway in PcUFB2 and its possible application in bioremediation strategies.
Towards a Typology of Battlefield Miracles: The Case of Operation “Cast Lead” in the Israel Defense Forces
Authors: Rosman Elisheva
Published: October 2018

Battlefield miracle stories are not rare. This paper suggests a typology of battlefield miracles. From this perspective it asks what sort of miracles can we expect to see in battle and when can we expect to see them? After presenting the main points of discussion regarding miracles, it proposes a range of categories for military miracles (miracles as acts that violate nature versus miracles as everyday acts; those involving the divine versus occurrences not requiring the presence of a heavenly emissary; acts of benevolence versus acts with no such intent; having a clear purpose versus acts where there is disagreement regarding interpretation). After discussing these categories, the articles uses Operation Cast Lead (December 2008–January 2009) as a case study to test the typology suggested above. Since this field is underdeveloped, this paper sets out to initiate a conversation on battlefield miracles, with hope that future studies will build upon it.
A Distributed Energy-Balanced Topology Control Algorithm Based on a Noncooperative Game for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Du Yongwen , Gong Junhui , Wang Zhangmin , Xu Ning
Published: October 2018

In wireless sensor networks, there is no a central controller to enforce cooperation between nodes. Therefore, nodes may generate selfish behavior to conserve their energy resources. In this paper, we address the problems of transmission power minimization and energy balance in wireless sensor networks using a topology control algorithm. We considered the energy efficiency and energy balance of the nodes, and an improved optimization-integrated utility function is designed by introducing the Theil index. Based on this, a topological control game model of energy balance is established, and it is proved that the topological game model is an ordinal potential game with Pareto optimality. Additionally, an energy-balanced topology control game algorithm (EBTG) is proposed to construct topologies. The simulation and comparison show that, compared with other topological control algorithms based on game theory, the EBTG algorithm can improve energy balance and energy efficiency while reducing the transmitting power of nodes, thus prolonging the network lifetime.
Exaptation, Refunctionalisation, Decapitalisation – BE + Past Participle with Intransitive Verbs in Mediaeval and Early Modern Spanish
Authors: Kailuweit Rolf
Published: October 2018

The chapter presents the current state of research concerning the development of the BE + past participle constructions from Latin to Spanish. Starting from the description in Rosemeyer (2014) and the theoretical background collated in Kailuweit & Rosemeyer (2015), it will be shown that the functional change does not follow traditional grammaticalisation paths. Several concepts that deal with cases contradicting traditional grammaticalisation theory will be discussed. ‘Exaption’ (Lass 1990, 1997) focussing on total defunctionalisation does not account for the fact that the resultative value of the BE + past participle construction, marginal in Latin, becomes central in Mediaeval Spanish. ‘Refunctionalisation’ Smith (2008) captures this aspect in a more appropriate way. However, the development of the construction could be also conceived as the opposite of what Pountain (2000) describes as ‘capitalisation’: a process of ‘decapitalisation’ by which a feature is exploited not for wider, but for more restricted purposes.
Evaluasi Program Pembelajaran Ilmu Pengetahuan Sosial di SMP Negeri Kota Ambon
Authors: Urlialy Gesia Mira , Kurniawati Kurniawati , Ibrahim Nurzengky
Published: October 2018

This study aims to evaluate historical learning programs that are integrated in social science to provide information on the extent of achievement of historical material integrated in social studies using the evaluative approach of the CIPP model (Context, Input, Process, and Product). This research was conducted at Ambon City Junior High School VII grade. The findings in this study on the context component indicate that the level of actualization in four aspects is moderate; in the input component the actualization level in three low aspects and two aspects shows the level of moderate actualization. In the input component the level of actualization in supporting the implementation of social studies learning in two low aspects and three moderate asepek. In the process component, the level of actualization in the implementation of social studies, especially historical material; and on the product component the actualization level of student learning outcomes is very high. Based on this research, it can be concluded that history learning integrated in social studies at Ambon City Junior High School in class VII is not optimal. Improvements need to be made - reforms by the principal, teachers and the government to support historical learning programs integrated in social studies.

Keywords: Learning Social Sciences, History, CIPP Model, Program Evaluation.

 

Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi program pembelajaran sejarah yang terintegrasi dalam ilmu pengetahuan sosial untuk memberikan informasi sejauh mana ketercapaian dari materi sejarah yang terintegrasi dalam IPS dengan menggunakan pendekatan evaluatif model CIPP (Context, Input, Process, and Product). Penelitian ini dilakukan di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Kota Ambon kelas VII. Temuan dalam penelitian ini pada komponen konteks menunjukkan bahwa tingkat aktualisasi pada empat aspek sedang; pada komponen input tingkat aktualisasi pada tiga aspek rendah dan dua aspek menunjukkan tingkat aktualisasi sedang. Pada komponen input tingkat aktualisasi dalam menunjang pelaksanaan pembelajaran IPS sejarah pada dua aspek rendah dan tiga asepek sedang. Pada komponen proses tingkat aktualisasi dalam pelaksanaan pembelajaran IPS khusunya materi sejarah sedang; dan pada komponen produk tingkat aktualisasi terhadap hasil belajar siswa sangat tinggi. Berdasarkan penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa pembelajaran sejarah yang terintegrasi dalam IPS di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Kota Ambon kelas VII belum optimal. Perlu dilakukan pembenahan â€“ pembenahan oleh pihak kepala sekolah, guru dan pemerintah untuk mendukung program pembelajaran sejarah yang terintegrasi dalam IPS.

Kata Kunci: Pembelajaran Ilmu Pengetahuan Sosial, Sejarah, Model CIPP, Evaluasi Program.
Potensi Youtube Sebagai Sumber Belajar Matematika
Authors: Suwarno Muji
Published: October 2018

Perkembangan tekhnologi dan informasi yang semakin maju membuat teknologi berbasis komputer dapat diaplikasikan dalam dunia pendidikan. Pemanfaatan teknologi komputer dijadikan sebagai media pembelajaran ataupun sumber belajar. Bahkan sudah banyak sumber belajar yang beredar secara online berbentuk e-learning. Sebagian besar materi pada E-learning berupa teks sehingga sulit dipahami siswa dalam mempelajari matematika karena materi matematika terdapat penjelasan langkah-langkah dalam menyelesaikan permasalahan matematika. Untuk itu, sumber belajar berupa video merupakan salah satu alternatif untuk menggantikan media berbentuk teks. Video pembelajaran yang sudah dibuat dapat diunggah pada situs video-sharing seperti Youtube. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk melihat potensi Youtube sebagai sumber belajar matematika siswa. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dengan peneliti sebagai instrument utama. Peneliti menganalisis sumber belajar matematika yang diunggah beberapa saluran di Youtube dan mengadakan wawancara kepada guru pelajaran matematika dan siswa SMA tentang pendapat Youtube sebagai sumber belajar matematika. Hasil penelitian menunjukan terdapat saluran Youtube yang menyediakan sumber belajar matematika untuk dipelajari siswa sudah cukup baik dijadikan sumber belajar siswa. Berdasarkan wawancara dengan guru matematika dan siswa, Youtube bisa menjadi sumber belajar matematika yang potensial, namun ada beberapa sisi positif serta negatif yang perlu diperhatikan.
PEMBELAJARAN MATEMATIKA DARI KONKRIT KE ABSTRAK DALAM MEMBANGUN KONSEP DASAR GEOMETRI BAGI SISWA SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Kholiyanti Arni
Published: October 2018

Sebagai seorang pendidik, kita berusaha untuk meningkatkan kualitas dalam mengajar dan memastikan bahwa kita menguasai bidang studi yang akan diajarkan kepada anak didik. Sebelum kita mengajarkan matematika, kita harus berusaha membuat anak didik menyukai pelajarannya sehingga mereka akan bersemangat dalam belajar. Belajar matematika di dalam kelas tidak selalu menyelesaikan operasi bilangan atau menyelaikan masalah matematika. Untuk membuat matematika menarik, kita harus membuat anak-anak tertarik untuk belajar matemaika. Salah satunya adalah menggunakan manipulatif. Salah satu manfaat penggunaan manipulatif adalah untuk membuat mereka lebih mudah membangun konsep matematika sehingga bisa meningkatkan kemampuan berpikir logis dalam menyelesaikan suatu masalah. Mereka akan terbiasa membuat hubungan antara benda-benda manipulatif tersebut dan diubah kedalam simbol-simbol matematika dalam menyelesaikan suatu masalah. Belajar matematika menggunakan manipulatif dapat membantu anak-anak dalam membangun konsep dasar matematika dan bagaimana mereka mengaplikasikan pengetahuan mereka di kehidupan sehari-hari. Kognitif psikologi telah mendeskripsikan beberapa langkah cara terbaik dalam mengembangkan pengalaman belajar matematika. Pertama adalah membangun konsep dasar matematika dengan menggunakan manipulatif, Kedua adalah menghubungkan pengetahuannya dengan membuat notasi matematika dengan operasi matematika, dan ketiga adalah memahami dan mengaplikasikan pengetahuan mereka secara mandiri. Dari ketiga tahap ini, yang terpenting adalah ketika anak membangun konsep matematika dengan bantuan manipulatif. Jangan terlalu terburu-buru agar anak didik kita dapat menyelesaikan suatu soal matematika. Kita harus tahu bahwa anak mengerti konsep, sehingga mereka dapat menghubungkan masalah yang ada dengan simbol-simbol matematika. Hal ini membantu mereka memiliki daya ingat yang lebih lama, karena mereka akan mengingat pengalaman mereka melakukan aktivitas di kelas dan membuat mereka dengan mudah menyelesaikan masalah matematika.
Systematic Approach to Producing Non-Detachable Connections
Authors: Sheleg V. K. , Latypova E. Yu. , Tsumarev Yu. A. , Tsumarev E. N.
Published: October 2018

The paper proposes a systematic approach to producing non-detachable connections which is based on unified technical solutions in the field of welding, soldering, gluing and other technologies. The given approach includes not only direct execution of the connection but its designing, preparatory operations and also measures carried out after connection producing. The proposed approach is also based on the principles of the required diversity, feedback, hierarchy and decomposition that ensures high efficiency of the developed technical solutions, possibility for setting-up and successful solution of problems in the field of producing non-detachable connections. In order to ensure a successful realization of systematic approach it is proposed to take into account a number of aspects, including the following: systematic and structural aspect that presupposes determination of internal relations and dependences between elements of the given system and it permits to obtain an overview about internal structure (composition) of the investigated system; systematic and functional aspect that presupposes determination of functions, and the system is created for performing these functions; systematic and purposeful aspect that signifies a necessity of scientific determination of system goals and sub-goals, their harmonization between themselves; systematic and resource aspect that presupposes thorough determination of the resources which are required for system performance and solution of various problems with the help of the system; systematic and integration aspect that presupposes to determine a complex of system qualitative properties which ensure its integrity and specificity; systematic and communication aspect that requires determination of external relations of the given system with others that is its relations with the environment; systematic and historical aspect that permits to determine conditions for creation of the investigated system, its past stages, modern state and also possible prospects of development. New connection designs of combined (hybrid) type have been developed on the basis of the systematic approach and the paper presents examples and classification of such connections.
Gas-Dynamic Specifications of Glow Discharge During Ion Nitriding Process
Authors: Bosyakov M. N. , Kozlov A. A.
Published: October 2018

Ion-plasma nitriding in glow discharge is a widely used method of surface hardening in the industrialized countries of the world and it is the most modern and technological type of surface hardening of machine parts, molds, dies and cutting tools. However there is no detailed review in the literature of technical characteristics and operation of a gas-vacuum part in ion nitriding units and it does not allow estimating electric power consumption for operation of a gas-vacuum system while assessing efficiency of the given equipment. The paper considers problems pertaining to relationship of gas-dynamic parameters of the nitriding process (pressure and gas flow rate) and energy characteristics of the glow discharge (current density, discharge voltage) during ion nitriding at industrial plants and their impact on the process. Calculation-practical modeling of a vacuum system for an ion nitriding installation shows that it is advisable to use vacuum units which represent consistently connected forevacuum and two-rotor pumps in order to ensure independent control of a pumping speed and flow rate of the gas mixture. Such approach makes it possible to carry out nitriding processes in a wide range of pressures with the possibility to provide high plasma gas rates at a low pressure, in particular, when processing large areas. The paper has revealed temperature interrelations, chamber pressure and glow discharge current density that ensure its existence in the abnormal form. It has been shown that at lower operational pressure during the process, higher degree of discharge abnormality can be provided at uniform temperature of the batch. Due to this it is possible to attain higher temperature similarity which ensures uniformity of a nitrided layer on all parts of the batch.
Сontrol of Intelligent Transport System in Minsk
Authors: Kapskiy D. V. , Navoy D. V. , Pegin P. A.
Published: October 2018

The paper considers algorithms for searching a maximum traffic volume of road vehicles in a traffic light cycle with a distributed intensity pulse and optimization of shifts under coordinated traffic flow control. Modeling of traffic flows have been made while using a computer program developed by the authors and it has made it possible to improve efficiency of traffic management by taking into account the distributed pulse of transport intensity. The paper proposes a model for minimizing total losses in road traffic during the integration of an incident control sub-system and route guidance for and an automatic road traffic management system as part of Minsk intelligent transportation system which has been studied as a tool for modeling a computer-aided design system "Backbone management". The model that minimizes vehicle delays, uses an algorithm implementing traffic flow intensity parameters depending on the time of day, days of the week. As a result of the simulation it has been revealed that the most effective parameter is an indicator of vehicle delays which does not always satisfy drivers trying to choose routes of their traffic which are based on a minimum transportation speed. However, from the point of view of managing an intelligent transportation system, it is necessary to choose parameters based on the requirements for minimizing delays on the road traffic network of the largest city in our country. All the proposed algorithms and models are used in the automatic traffic management system of Minsk city and will be used while creating an integrated intellectual transportation system of the city.
Severe eosinophilic bronchial asthma: new therapeutic options
Authors: Nenasheva N. M.
Published: October 2018

Eosinophilic asthma is a common phenotype of severe asthma, occurring in at least half of patients. In recent years, there have been significant changes in the approaches to the treatment of severe bronchial asthma and, above all, eosinophilic asthma. The article discusses the role of eosinophils in the pathogenesis of severe asthma, the detection of the phenotype of severe eosinophilic asthma, and modern approaches to targeting severe asthma with an eosinophilic phenotype using biological agents. A special emphasis is placed on preparations of monoclonal antibodies to interleukin-5, in particular, mepolizumab, recently approved for clinical use in our country.
Epidemiology and pharmacotherapy of lower respiratory tract infections: role of inhibitor-protected aminopenicillins
Authors: Zaitsev A. A.
Published: October 2018

The article is devoted to the role of inhibitor-protected aminopenicillins in the treatment of community-acquired infections of the lower respiratory tract. Data are provided on the relevance of LRTIs, the aetiology of CAP and infectious exacerbations of COPD, the pharmacological characteristics of amoxicillin /clavulanate, which allowed it to occupy a leading role in the antibiotic therapy regimens of these diseases. The paper presented modern ideas about the directions of antimicrobial therapy of CAP and its complications (lung abscess, pleural empyema). It considered the antibacterial therapy indications for exacerbations of chronic bronchitis /COPD, and presented the treatment regimens with due account for the current clinical guidelines.
Fixed-dose combinations of bronchodilators in the treatment of patients with COPD: problem of choice
Authors: Sinopalnikov A. I.
Published: October 2018

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a disease characterized by air flow limitation that progresses over time and is not fully reversible, which, along with the severity of clinical symptoms and the frequency of relapses, is one of its key characteristics [1, 2]. The main “tool” in achieving therapeutic goals in accordance with current guidelines GOLD [1], GesEPOC [3], NICE [4], PPO [5], etc. - are bronchodilators. Fixed-dose combinations of long acting beta-2 agonists/long acting anticholinergic agents provide optimal bronchodilation and play a primary role in preventing exacerbations of COPD.
Research on the vibration damping performance of hydro-pneumatic suspension of mine dump truck
Authors: Suo Xuefeng , Jiao Shengjie , Wang Gangfeng , Wang Haojie , Ma Xiyong
Published: October 2018

The working environment of mine dump truck is relatively harsh, thus the suspension system with poor performance will directly affect driver's driving comfort and physical and mental health. An oil cylinder is one of the key components of the hydro-pneumatic suspension system, however, the high friction levels between cylinder and piston would lead to ‘friction locking’ phenomenon in the practical application. In order to improve the vibration damping performance of hydro-pneumatic suspension system and enhance the comfortability of whole vehicle, a 110 t mine dump truck was studied by theoretical and experimental method. The results of this study show that increasing the length of cylinder guide can effectively decrease the cylinder vibration transmission rate and improve the driving comfortability of vehicle.
Synchronization behavior of a weakly damped far-resonance vibrating system
Authors: Chen Bang , Xia Xiao’ou , Wang Xiaobo
Published: October 2018

In order to reveal synchronization characteristics of a weakly damped system with two rotors mounted on different vibrating bodies, we propose a simplified physical model. Vibration of the system is discussed by the average method, which can separate fast motions (high frequency) from slow motions (low frequency). Theoretical research shows that vibration torque is the key factor to balance the energy distribution between rotors. For the system with rotational frequencies larger than the nature frequencies, the coupling characteristic frequency or characteristic frequency curve should be considered. As the coupling frequency is close to the characteristic frequency, or the vibration state is close to the characteristic frequency curve, self-synchronization of two rotors can be obtained easily.
Stability analysis of differential scheme for dynamic equations of mooring cable system
Authors: Shi Ruizhi , Zhang Suxia , Liu Xijun , Cui Fujiang , Zhou Anqi
Published: October 2018

The mooring cable system in plane motion can be modeled as two coupled partial differential equations, which can be numerical solved by finite difference method directly. The difference scheme is analyzed, and parameters selection for time-marching of displacement and velocity are deduced. The stability condition of the scheme is analyzed through Fourier series method, and parameters range which match stable scheme is given. Then, the parameters range is verified by a numerical example.
Research on transmission coefficient property of coupled beam structure
Authors: Hu Wanlu , Chen Haibo , Zhong Qiang
Published: October 2018

This study investigates the transmission coefficient of coupled beam structure which has been widely used in engineering problems. Although the power flow is continuous at the coupled point, the waveform and energy density often show sudden changes. These changes can be utilized to create an understanding of the system. By treating the two-beam coupled structure as two infinite beams and considering the coupling between the bending wave and the torsion one, the conversion of wave types at the coupled interface is discussed. Further, the transmission coefficient is also computed. Furthermore, investigate the effects of coupling angle, beam height and the excitation frequency of incident wave on the conversion of wave type and energy transmission. Numerical results indicate that the coupling angle and beam height have great influences on the conversion of wave type. The component of torsion wave grows with the excitation frequency and cannot be ignored in high frequencies.
A bankruptcy method for pollution load reallocation in river systems
Authors: Moridi Ali
Published: October 2018

This study forms the basis and sets practical guidelines for developing river water quality management strategies for resolving conflicts related to the allocation of pollution discharge permits using bankruptcy methods. This approach was implemented by changing the concepts and considering the river self-purification potential (capacity) as an asset which is to be shared among various beneficiaries. The beneficiaries are the point sources which release their wastewater to the river with minimum treatment costs. Four commonly used bankruptcy methods in the water resources allocation literature are used here to develop new river bankruptcy solution methods for allocating pollution share to the riparian parties of river systems. For this purpose, the Qual2 K river water quality simulation model is integrated with a particle swarm optimization (PSO) model while various pollution loadings discharge policies have been determined based on the bankruptcy method. This method was employed in one of the most polluted rivers of northern Iran, which is the source of eutrophication for Anzali International Wetland. The results show that the application of this method could facilitate the conflict resolution among different beneficiaries in order to improve the conditions of river water quality.
Understanding the emergence of water market institutions: learning from functioning water markets in three countries
Authors: Breviglieri Gustavo Velloso , do Sol Osório Guarany Ipê , Puppim de Oliveira Jose A.
Published: October 2018

Markets for managing natural resources have existed for many decades and have gradually made their way into the mix of discourses on water policy. However, there are not many established water markets functioning worldwide and little understanding about how and why water markets emerge as allocating institutions. In order to understand the dynamics of the evolution of water markets, the experiences of selected cases with relatively mature water market systems were analyzed, namely: the Murray–Darling Basin in Australia; the Colorado-Big Thompson Project and the transfers between the Palo Verde and Metropolitan Water Districts in the USA; and Spain. We found that formal markets emerged in water scarcity situations where water rights already existed and were sometimes exchanged informally. Water markets have not always moved to reduce transaction costs, as some of those costs were necessary to achieve societal goals beyond economic efficiency. There is a significant difference between the idea of water markets as proposed by economic theory and actual practice in the water sector. As institutions, markets are humanly devised rules embedded in a social and political context and do not always lead to efficient or effective solutions for the management of resources.
Formation of trihalomethanes in swimming pool waters using sodium dichloroisocyanurate as an alternative disinfectant
Authors: Mao Yuanxiang , Zhang Liping , Dong Huiyu
Published: October 2018

Disinfection is essential to preventing infection caused by microbial pathogens in swimming pool water. The most commonly used disinfection methods are chlorine disinfectant, including sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and sodium dichloroisocyanurate (SDIC, C3O3N3Cl2Na) with characteristics of available chlorine formation and stability. In this study, we estimate the formation of trihalomethanes (THM4) in indoor swimming pools filled with seawater that adopt these disinfection methods, and we investigated the factors influencing the formation of THM4. Formation of THM4 by free chlorine (FC) and SDIC respectively is 327.8 μg L−1 and 307.6 μg L−1; Br-THMs is 226.7 μg L−1 for FC, 198 μg L−1 for SDIC. SDIC has less THM4 formation than FC in the same molar Br− dosage (10 μM) and total chlorine dosage (20 μM), and bromoform is the main Br-THMs species. The occurrence of THM4 is inhibited at high dosages of natural organic matter and Br−. The total Br-THMs increase from 75 μg L−1 to 189.7 μg L−1 and from 64.6 μg L−1 to 190 μg L−1 by FC and SDIC at pH 5.0–9.0, both of which are highly dependent on pH. In real water, similar results were found in Br−-containing water (1 mg-Br− L−1).
Bacterial Lipoprotein Biosynthetic Pathway as a Potential Target for Structure-based Design of Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Xia Jie , Feng Bo , Wen Gang , Xue Wenjie , Ma Guixing , Zhang Hongmin , Wu Song
Published: October 2018

Background:

Antibiotic resistance is currently a serious problem for global public health. To this end, discovery of new antibacterial drugs that interact with novel targets is important. The biosynthesis of lipoproteins is vital to bacterial survival and its inhibitors have shown efficacy against a range of bacteria, thus bacterial lipoprotein biosynthetic pathway is a potential target.

Methods:

At first, the literature that covered the basic concept of bacterial lipoprotein biosynthetic pathway as well as biochemical characterization of three key enzymes was reviewed. Then, the recently resolved crystal structures of the three enzymes were retrieved from Protein Data Bank (PDB) and the essential residues in the active sites were analyzed. Lastly, all the available specific inhibitors targeting this pathway and their Structure-activity Relationship (SAR) were discussed.

Results:

We briefly introduce the bacterial lipoprotein biosynthetic pathway and describe the structures and functions of three key enzymes in detail. In addition, we present much knowledge on ligand recognition that may facilitate structure-based drug design. Moreover, we focus on the SAR of LspA inhibitors and discuss their potency and drug-likeness.

Conclusion:

This review presents a clear background of lipoprotein biosynthetic pathway and provides practical clues for structure-based drug design. In particular, the most up-to-date knowledge on the SAR of lead compounds targeting this pathway would be a good reference for discovery of a novel class of antibacterial agents.
Machine Learning in Quantitative Protein–peptide Affinity Prediction: Implications for Therapeutic Peptide Design
Authors: Li Zhongyan , Miao Qingqing , Yan Fugang , Meng Yang , Zhou Peng
Published: October 2018

Background:

Protein–peptide recognition plays an essential role in the orchestration and regulation of cell signaling networks, which is estimated to be responsible for up to 40% of biological interaction events in the human interactome and has recently been recognized as a new and attractive druggable target for drug development and disease intervention.

Methods:

We present a systematic review on the application of machine learning techniques in the quantitative modeling and prediction of protein–peptide binding affinity, particularly focusing on its implications for therapeutic peptide design. We also briefly introduce the physical quantities used to characterize protein–peptide affinity and attempt to extend the content of generalized machine learning methods.

Results:

Existing issues and future perspective on the statistical modeling and regression prediction of protein– peptide binding affinity are discussed.

Conclusion:

There is still a long way to go before establishment of general, reliable and efficient machine leaningbased protein–peptide affinity predictors.
Optimized Tree-Type Cylindrical-Shaped Nanoporous Filtering Membranes with 3 or 5 Branch Pores in Each Pore Tree
Authors: Zhang Yongbin
Published: October 2018

Background:

It is necessary to investigate the performances of the optimized tree-type
cylindrical-shaped nanoporous filtering membranes with 3 or 5 branch pores in each pore tree.

Objective:

To explore the design method for and the performances of the liquid-particle and liquidliquid
separations of the optimized tree-type cylindrical-shaped nanoporous filtering membranes with
3 or 5 branch pores in each pore tree.

Methods:

The analysis was made for the flow resistance of the studied membrane based on the nanoscale
flow equation. The optimum ratios of the radius of the trunk pore to the radius of the branch
pore were typically calculated for yielding the lowest flow resistance of this membrane. The capability
of the liquid-liquid separation of this membrane was investigated by exploring the flow resistances
of this membrane for different liquids.

Results:

The optimum ratios of the radius of the trunk pore to the radius of the branch pore were
typically calculated for the maximum fluxes of these membranes for different passing liquid-pore
wall interactions. They can be used for the design of the studied membranes for liquid-particle or
liquid-liquid separations. The flow resistances of the studied membranes in the optimum condition
for different liquids were also calculated, and the capability of the liquid-liquid separation of the
membranes is evidenced.

Conclusion:

The obtained results can be used for the design of the studied membranes for achieving
their optimum operating condition, by taking the ratio of the radius of the trunk pore to the radius of
the branch pore as optimum. The studied membranes also have good capabilities of liquid-liquid
separations if the mixed liquids have greatly different interactions with the pore wall and the radius
of the branch pore is below 3nm or less.
Isolation, Purification, Characterisation and Application of L-ASNase: A Review
Authors: Paul Tania , Mondal Abhijit , Bandyopadhyay Tarun Kanti
Published: October 2018

Background: L-ASNase (L-asparagine aminohydrolase EC 3.5.1.1) is used for the conversion of L-asparagine to L-aspartic acid and ammonia and also it was found as an agent of chemotherapeutic property according to recent patents. It is known as an anti-cancer agent and recently it has received an immense attention. Various microorganisms have the ability to secrete the L-ASNase. It is famous world-wide as anti-tumor medicine for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphosarcoma. L-ASNase helps in deamination of Asparagine and Glutamine.  Source: L-ASNase mainly found in two bacterial sources; Escherichia coli and Erwinia carotovora. Isolation from plants: Endophytes were also a great source of L-ASNase. It was isolated from four types of plants named as; C. citratus, O. diffusa, M. koengii, and also P. bleo.  Applications: L-ASNase is used as a potential anti-tumor medicine. It plays a very much essential role for the growth of tumor cells. Tumor cells require a lot of asparagine for their growth. But ASNase converts to aspartate and ammonia from asparagine. So the tumor cell does not proliferate and fails to survive. The L-ASNase is used as the medicine for the major type of cancer like acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), brain. It also used as a medicine for central nervous system (CNS) tumors, and also for neuroblastoma. Two types of L-ASNase have been found.  Conclusion: L-ASNase becomes a powerful anti-tumor medicine and researchers should develop a potent strain of asparaginase which can produce asparaginase in the industrial level. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry and food industry on a broader scale.