bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
REKONSTRUKSI BIROKRASI PEMERINTAH DAERAH PENGUJIAN KENDARAAN BERMOTOR BERBASIS NILAI KEADILAN (Study tentang Birokrasi Pengujian Kendaraan Bermotor pada Dinas Perhubungan Kabupaten/Kota di Jawa Tengah)
Authors: Sudrajat Imam
Published: July 2017

Implementation of Bureaucracy in testing at the Motor Vehicle Department of Transportation District/town in Central Java is not based on the value of justice due to the Problem Statement that occur in relation to services and feasibility testing of motor vehicles is not only a service procedure, but the commitment of employees to carry out services and feasibility testing of motor vehicles less reflect fairness and transfaransi. Servicing and testing the feasibility of a motor vehicle cannot fully satisfy the community because people's understanding of the feasibility of testing services of motor vehicles, apparently not all of them know and understand procedurally. To perform reconstruction Bureaucracy, used Progressive Legal Theory equitable, with steps taken by the privatization Motor Vehicle Inspection, Supervision improve the effectiveness, efficiency and transfer of oil fuel sources, restrictions on vehicle age and vehicle progressive taxation.
ANALISIS YURIDIS PENYIDIKAN TINDAK PIDANA PORNOGRAFI BERDASARKAN UNDANG-UNDANG NOMOR 44 TAHUN 2008 DI ERA DIGITALISASI
Authors: Laksana Andri Winjaya , Suratman Suratman
Published: July 2017

Pornography is a crime that is privacy so that enforcement against the eradication of pornography there are many difficulties. One of the factors inhibiting the eradication of pornography among others due to lack of cooperation from the public and the various parties in reporting this crime. Criminal law enforcement have a tendency to be influenced by the structure of society, that is a constraint that allows the criminal law enforcement can be run and can provide barriers that lead to the enforcement of criminal law can’t be started or can't be maximize. As happens to the pros cons on current legislation Law No. 44 Year 2008 concerning the Crime pornography. This research method using normative juridical approach. Normative juridical research also called legal research library research is done by checking library materials or secondary data. The results of the study refers to Article 34 in conjunction with Article 8 of Law No. 44 Year 2008 on Pornography, (1) that the elements of the crime of pornography consists of Subjective elements that error, which means intentionally or consent was committed and objective elements that act ( be) which means that objects or models that contain pornographic content. (2) In the process of criminal investigations conducted pornography remains based on Criminal Procedure unless otherwise provided in the Act No. 44 of 2008
IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN DISKRESI PADA SISTEM PELAYANAN PUBLIK DI KOTA TEGAL
Authors: Jaya Ikmal
Published: July 2017

Bureaucratic discretion in local government as one of the efforts the effectiveness of public services in Tegal city publication in urgent circumstances is a condition that arises suddenly public interest that must be resolved quickly, which to resolve the issue, the legislation has not been set. The approach used in this study is a socio-juridical approach, the method or procedure used to solve research problems by examining secondary data such as material laws or regulations applicable law followed by conducting research on primary data in the field. The results obtained that 1) Discretion Policy Implementation bureaucracy in local government as one of the efforts the effectiveness of public services in Tegal publication in urgent circumstances is a condition that arises suddenly public interest that must be resolved quickly, which to resolve the issue the legislation has not been set or just set in general and the situation should not be created due to error or action by the Board of Administration officials who perform discretionary, 2) Constraints in the discretion of the bureaucracy in local government as one of the efforts of service effectiveness public in Tegal is insufficient fee due to excessive demand of bureaucratic discretion program.
ANALISIS HUKUM SISTEM PENYELESAIAN SENGKETA ATAS TANAH BERBASIS KEADILAN
Authors: NINGRUM HERLINA RATNA SAMBAWA
Published: July 2017

Law enforcement bureaucracy in resolving land disputes through litigation and non-litigation often found that in resolving the dispute is considered unjust. Disputes over land and agrarian resources in general seems to be a latent conflict. Of the various cases, rise and sharpening of land disputes not happen instantly, but to grow and develop from seeds that so long it has been deposited. This research method combines doctrinal research and socio-legal research-research, the basis of doctrinal research is research library that includes the primary legal materials, secondary law and tertiary legal materials. The results obtained 1) that the causes of the frequent occurrence of land disputes, among others; System of land administration, land ownership distribution is uneven. The legality of land ownership based solely on the formal proof (certificate), without regard to soil productivity2) Strategy Dispute Settlement System of Land-Based Justice: Strategic Administrative State, Judiciary, Legislative Strategy, Need to establish a separate judiciary in resolving disputes over land
TINJAUAN ANALIS ATAS PENGATURAN WILAYAH LANDAS KONTINEN DENGAN BERLAKUNYA KONVENSI HUKUM LAUT PBB 1982
Authors: Chalim Munsharif Abdul
Published: July 2017

Before the entry into force of UNCLOS 1982, the continental shelf area governed by Article 1 of the Convention IV Geneva Convention on Law of the Sea 1958, which was implemented by Law No. 1 of 1973. The setting through 1958 Geneva Convention on Law of the Sea benefit for the developed countries only that have the advance technology. To be able to realize the regulating of the use of the continental shelf that is equitable, it is necessary to rebuild or reconstruct the form of national law Act No. 1 In 1973 and international law in the form of the Geneva Convention on Law of the Sea 1958. Two things to note in this reconstruction is the reconstruction of value and the reconstruction of law or settings. Although UNCLOS 1982 has been in force, but the status of Indonesian Act No. 1 of 1973 still impose as the implementation of the Geneva Conventions Year 1958. Several agreements with neighboring countries are being held between the years 1969-19972, of course it is very detrimental to the Indonesia Government. Through reconstruction of national law, in this case the Law No. 1 of 1973, adjusted to international law, namely UNCLOS 1982 is expected that the  regulating of the utilization of natural resources in the continental shelf of Republic Indonesia can provide a fair arrangement. It is necessary to remember that there is a difference in perception between the Law No. 1 of 1973 with the UNCLOS 1982 in the matter of setting the area of the continental shelf.
PERBANDINGAN MATERI MUATAN KETETAPAN MPR PADA MASA PEMERINTAHAN ORDE LAMA, ORDE BARU, DAN ERA REFORMASI
Authors: Widayati Widayati
Published: July 2017

Decree of People’s Consultative Assembly (TAP MPR) established since 1960 and 2002. Totally there are 139 Decrees in Consultative Assembly (TAP MPRS and TAP MPR). The whole Decree of People’s Consultative Assembly (TAP MPRS and TAP MPR) was formed during the reign of the Old Orde, the New Orde, and the Reformation Era. TAP MPR was changed in content material along with the change of government and the amendments of 1945 Constitution of The State of The Republic of Indonesia (UUD 1945). Therefore, this study will compare to the substance of the Decree of People’s Consultative Assembly (TAP MPR) on the government period. The method used in this research was normative juridical with secondary data, which was analyzed by the method of normative, then presented descriptively. The change of government affects the substance of the Decree of People’s Consultative Assembly (TAP MPR).
MEDIASI PENAL SEBAGAI UPAYA DALAM RANGKA PEMBAHARUAN HUKUM PIDANA DI INDONESIA BERBASIS NILAI-NILAI KESEIMBANGAN
Authors: Abildanwa Taufiqurrohman
Published: July 2017

The purpose which would be expected in ”Penal Mediation” in positive criminal law which is to root the values   promoted by restorative justice is rooted in traditional values   in traditional societies such as the value of balance, harmony and peace in society. This study used library research (library research) with normative approach to determine the policy of the criminal law in the prevention of criminal acts through efforts to settle outside the court process in order to reform the criminal law in Indonesia. Analysis of the data used in this study is qualitative data analysis of the primary data and secondary data. Results of this study were (1) the criminal law policy in combating criminal acts through efforts to resolve extrajudicial positive today only a small part, while others are still oriented to the formal completion. (2) Policy criminal law in combating criminal acts through the efforts of  a settlement Penal Mediation in the framework of criminal law reform in Indonesia should be arranged in an integrated manner, and the required type of criminal that could compromise or take advantage of the positive aspects (the reverse also means, avoid negative terms) on the other side of the prison and criminal surveillance sector on the other side.
Pelaksanaan Pemeriksaan Terhadap Pelaku Penyalahguna Narkotika Dengan Sistem Rehabilitasi di Badan Nasional Narkotika Propinsi Jawa Tengah.
Authors: Laksana Andri Winjaya
Published: July 2017

Human Trafficking especially against women and children is a crime whose perpetrators must be severely punished. Most victims of trafficking are women and children whose educational level is low and the weak economic situation, therefore victims should receive legal protection. The method used in this research is juridical sociological or socio legal research, the method or procedure used to solve research problems by examining secondary data such as ingredients laws or regulations applicable law followed by conducting research on the data primer on the field. The results showed, 1) factors that cause human trafficking are poverty, low education, Promiscuity, lack of information. 2) obstacles in the legal protection for trafficking victims even though the government has issued Law No. 21 of 2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, but it is unfortunate that the law can not be enforced effectively, because there are some obstacles in the form factor of non-juridical include economic factors, poverty, education factors are low and social and cultural factors.
Ranging Behaviour of Commercial Free-Range Broiler Chickens 1: Factors Related to Flock Variability
Authors: Taylor Peta , Hemsworth Paul , Groves Peter , Gebhardt-Henrich Sabine , Rault Jean-Loup
Published: July 2017

Little is known about the ranging behaviour of chickens. Understanding ranging behaviour is required to improve management and shed and range design to ensure optimal ranging opportunities. Using Radio Frequency Identification technology, we tracked 300 individual broiler chickens in each of four mixed sex ROSS 308 flocks on one commercial farm across two seasons. Ranging behaviour was tracked from the first day of range access (21 days of age) until 35 days of age in winter and 44 days of age in summer. Range use was higher than previously reported from scan sampling studies. More chickens accessed the range in summer (81%) than winter (32%; p < 0.05). On average, daily frequency and duration of range use was greater in summer flocks (4.4 ± 0.1 visits for a total of 26.3 ± 0.8 min/day) than winter flocks (3.2 ± 0.2 visits for a total of 7.9 ± 1.0 min/day). Seasonal differences were only marginally explained by weather conditions and may reflect the reduction in range exposure between seasons (number of days, hours per day, and time of day). Specific times of the day (p < 0.01) and pop-holes were favoured (p < 0.05). We provide evidence of relationships between ranging and external factors that may explain ranging preferences.
Adaptive Global Fast Sliding Mode Control for Steer-by-Wire System Road Vehicles
Authors: Iqbal Junaid , Zuhaib Khalil , Han Changsoo , Khan Abdul , Ali Mian
Published: July 2017

A steer-by-wire (SbW) system, also known as a next-generation steering system, is one of the core elements of autonomous driving technology. Navigating a SbW system road vehicle in varying driving conditions requires an adaptive and robust control scheme to effectively compensate for the uncertain parameter variations and external disturbances. Therefore, this article proposed an adaptive global fast sliding mode control (AGFSMC) for SbW system vehicles with unknown steering parameters. First, the cooperative adaptive sliding mode observer (ASMO) and Kalman filter (KF) are established to simultaneously estimate the vehicle states and cornering stiffness coefficients. Second, based on the best set of estimated dynamics, the AGFSMC is designed to stabilize the impact of nonlinear tire-road disturbance forces and at the same time to estimate the uncertain SbW system parameters. Due to the robust nature of the proposed scheme, it can not only handle the tire–road variation, but also intelligently adapts to the different driving conditions and ensures that the tracking error and the sliding surface converge asymptotically to zero in a finite time. Finally, simulation results and comparative study with other control techniques validate the excellent performance of the proposed scheme.
Mini Review of Controlled Cortical Impact: A Well-Suited Device for Concussion Research
Authors: Osier Nicole , Dixon C.
Published: July 2017

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is increasingly recognized as a significant public health problem which warrants additional research. Part of the effort to understand mTBI and concussion includes modeling in animals. Controlled cortical impact (CCI) is a commonly employed and well-characterized model of experimental TBI that has been utilized for three decades. Today, several commercially available pneumatic- and electromagnetic-CCI devices exist as do a variety of standard and custom injury induction tips. One of CCI’s strengths is that it can be scaled to a number of common laboratory animals. Similarly, the CCI model can be used to produce graded TBI ranging from mild to severe. At the mild end of the injury spectrum, CCI has been applied in many ways, including to study open and closed head mTBI, repeated injuries, and the long-term deficits associated with mTBI and concussion. The purpose of this mini-review is to introduce the CCI model, discuss ways the model can be applied to study mTBI and concussion, and compare CCI to alternative pre-clinical TBI models.
Co-Immobilization of Superoxide Dismutase with Catalase on Soft Microparticles Formed by Self-Assembly of Amphiphilic Poly(Aspartic Acid)
Authors: Mao Siyu , Li Rong , Wang Wenchen , Feng Wei , Ji Peijun
Published: July 2017

Through genetic engineering technology, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) have been separately fused to an elastin-like polypeptide (ELP). Thus, the enzymes can be purified through phase transition. Hexadecylamine-modified poly(aspartic acid) (HPASP) is able to self-assemble, forming soft microparticles. The HPASP microparticles were used to co-immobilize SOD-ELP and CAT-ELP through amidation reaction. Circular dichroism (CD) confirmed that the secondary structures of the co-immobilized enzymes have been preserved. Fluorescence spectra showed that the co-immobilized enzymes exhibited a higher stability than the free enzymes. Dismutation of superoxide by superoxide dismutase (SOD) generates hydrogen peroxide. By using the co-immobilized enzymes (SOD-ELP/CAT-ELP@HPASP), the generated hydrogen peroxide of SOD-ELP can be decomposed in situ by CAT-ELP. Activity assay results demonstrated that the superoxide anion (•O2−) scavenging ability is 63.15 ± 0.75% for SOD-ELP/CAT-ELP@HPASP. The advantages of the approach of enzyme co-immobilization include the fact that the soft support HPASP itself is a polypeptide in nature, the stability of immobilized enzymes is improved, and a high activity has been achieved. Potentially SOD-ELP/CAT-ELP@HPASP can be applied in the cosmetic industry.
Electroreduction of CO2 into Ethanol over an Active Catalyst: Copper Supported on Titania
Authors: Yuan Jing , Liu Li , Guo Rong-Rong , Zeng Sheng , Wang Huan , Lu Jia-Xing
Published: July 2017

A simple, inexpensive, and novel method was used to prepare electrocatalysts from Cu supported on titanium dioxide (Cu/TiO2). XRD, SEM, and TEM characterizations confirmed different loadings of Cu nanoparticles (NPs) on TiO2. Cyclic voltammetry tests indicated that Cu/TiO2 exhibited lower overpotential for CO2 reduction than that of Cu NPs. Moreover, 40 wt % Cu/TiO2 exhibited the highest faradaic efficiency for ethanol (FEethanol) of 27.4%, which is approximately 10-fold higher than that for Cu NPs (FEethanol = 2.7%). The 40 wt % Cu/TiO2 electrocatalyst exhibits a stable current density of 8.66 mA/cm2 over a 25 h stability test. The high efficiency towards CO2 electroreduction to ethanol may be attributed to the synergistic effect of Cu and TiO2 NPs. This work highlights the importance of compositional effect of NPs on their catalytic activities and provides a strategy for designing efficient catalysts for CO2 electroreduction in the future.
Parameter Design and Energy Control of the Power Train in a Hybrid Electric Boat
Authors: Gao Diju , Zhang Wei , Shen Aidi , Wang Yide
Published: July 2017

With the continuous development worldwide of the inland shipping industry, emissions to the atmosphere have become a serious threat in terms of pollution. Hybrid power technology is an important means for reducing pollution due to emissions from ships. This paper considers a power train series in a hybrid electric inland waterway boat. From the analysis of the structure and principle of the power train, the parameter design for its key devices is presented, and a novel energy control strategy is proposed. Navigation experience shows that the proposed design method and control strategy are useful and satisfactory.
High Breakdown Field CaCu3Ti4O12 Ceramics: Roles of the Secondary Phase and of Sr Doping
Authors: Tang Zhuang , Wu Kangning , Huang Yuwei , Li Jianying
Published: July 2017

In this work, two methods of CaCu3Ti4O12-CuAl2O4 composite and SrCu3Ti4O12-CaCu3Ti4O12 composite were prepared to improve the breakdown field in CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics. CaCu3Ti4O12-0.5CuAl2O4 and 0.4SrCu3Ti4O12-0.6CaCu3Ti4O12 samples with proper sintering conditions were found to have greatly enhanced breakdown fields of more than 20 kV·cm−1 compared to the ordinary value of 1–2 kV·cm−1 in CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics. In addition, reduced dielectric loss tangent of these samples remained about 0.1 at a low frequency of 0.1 Hz, indicating superior dielectric properties. No abnormal grain growth was found in either composite with a high breakdown field, which was attributed to the pining effect and consumption of Cu-rich phase at grain boundaries. Under analysis of the relaxation process by electric modulus, compared to conventional CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics, interstitial Ali··· and increasing interfaces were responsible for variation in activation energy in CaCu3Ti4O12-0.5CuAl2O4 composites, while the integrated action of a strong solid solution effect and weak Sr-stretching effect contributed to the elevated potential barrier height and enhanced breakdown field in 0.4SrCu3Ti4O12-0.6CaCu3Ti4O12 composites.
Location Study of Solar Thermal Power Plant in the State of Pernambuco Using Geoprocessing Technologies and Multiple-Criteria Analysis
Authors: Azevêdo Verônica , Candeias Ana , Tiba Chigueru
Published: July 2017

Solar Thermal Technology for the generation of electricity in large scale has been a reality in the world since the 1980s, when the first large-sized solar plants in the United States were introduced. Brazil presents great potential for the development of large-scale projects, although it is noted that the main barriers for the insertion of this technology in Brazilian market are the lack of incentives and goals and associated costs. In a way to contribute to the insertion of solar thermal technology in Brazil, this paper presents a macro-spatial approach, based on the use of Multiple-Criteria Decision Analysis and Geoprocessing, for the location of solar thermal power plants. The applied methodology for Pernambuco, located in the Northeast Region of Brazil, considered the implantation of parabolic trough solar power plant of 80 MW, operating only in solar mode, without heat storage. Based on performed analysis, it was confirmed that Pernambuco presents great potential for the installation of solar power plants, especially in the backlands of Pernambuco. Performed validations in the model demonstrate that the methodology attended the objective once the consistence between the assigned weights to the thematic layers, individually, and the final Map of site suitability were evidenced.
Effect of Air Pollution on Menstrual Cycle Length—A Prognostic Factor of Women’s Reproductive Health
Authors: Merklinger-Gruchala Anna , Jasienska Grazyna , Kapiszewska Maria
Published: July 2017

Air pollution can influence women’s reproductive health, specifically menstrual cycle characteristics, oocyte quality, and risk of miscarriage. The aim of the study was to assess whether air pollution can affect the length of the overall menstrual cycle and the length of its phases (follicular and luteal). Municipal ecological monitoring data was used to assess the air pollution exposure during the monitored menstrual cycle of each of 133 woman of reproductive age. Principal component analyses were used to group pollutants (PM10, SO2, CO, and NOx) to represent a source-related mixture. PM10 and SO2 assessed separately negatively affected the length of the luteal phase after standardization (b = −0.02; p = 0.03; b = −0.06; p = 0.02, respectively). Representing a fossil fuel combustion emission, they were also associated with luteal phase shortening (b = −0.32; p = 0.02). These pollutants did not affect the follicular phase length and overall cycle length, neither in single- nor in multi-pollutant models. CO and NOx assessed either separately or together as a traffic emission were not associated with overall cycle length or the length of cycle phases. Luteal phase shortening, a possible manifestation of luteal phase deficiency, can result from fossil fuel combustion. This suggests that air pollution may contribute to fertility problems in women.
Proteostasis of Huntingtin in Health and Disease
Authors: Koyuncu Seda , Fatima Azra , Gutierrez-Garcia Ricardo , Vilchez David
Published: July 2017

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor dysfunction, cognitive deficits and psychosis. HD is caused by mutations in the Huntingtin (HTT) gene, resulting in the expansion of polyglutamine (polyQ) repeats in the HTT protein. Mutant HTT is prone to aggregation, and the accumulation of polyQ-expanded fibrils as well as intermediate oligomers formed during the aggregation process contribute to neurodegeneration. Distinct protein homeostasis (proteostasis) nodes such as chaperone-mediated folding and proteolytic systems regulate the aggregation and degradation of HTT. Moreover, polyQ-expanded HTT fibrils and oligomers can lead to a global collapse in neuronal proteostasis, a process that contributes to neurodegeneration. The ability to maintain proteostasis of HTT declines during the aging process. Conversely, mechanisms that preserve proteostasis delay the onset of HD. Here we will review the link between proteostasis, aging and HD-related changes.
The Effect of N-Terminal Cyclization on the Function of the HIV Entry Inhibitor 5P12-RANTES
Authors: F. Nguyen Anna , S. Schill Megan , Jian Mike , J. LiWang Patricia
Published: July 2017

Despite effective treatment for those living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), there are still two million new infections each year. Protein-based HIV entry inhibitors, being highly effective and specific, could be used to protect people from initial infection. One of the most promising of these for clinical use is 5P12-RANTES, a variant of the chemokine RANTES/CCL5. The N-terminal amino acid of 5P12-RANTES is glutamine (Gln; called Q0), a residue that is prone to spontaneous cyclization when at the N-terminus of a protein. It is not known how this cyclization affects the potency of the inhibitor or whether cyclization is necessary for the function of the protein, although the N-terminal region of RANTES has been shown to be critical for receptor interactions, with even small changes having a large effect. We have studied the kinetics of cyclization of 5P12-RANTES as well as N-terminal variations of the protein that either produce an identical cyclized terminus (Glu0) or that cannot similarly cyclize (Asn0, Phe0, Ile0, and Leu0). We find that the half life for N-terminal cyclization of Gln is roughly 20 h at pH 7.3 at 37 °C. However, our results show that cyclization is not necessary for the potency of this protein and that several replacement terminal amino acids produce nearly-equally potent HIV inhibitors while remaining CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) antagonists. This work has ramifications for the production of active 5P12-RANTES for use in the clinic, while also opening the possibility of developing other inhibitors by varying the N-terminus of the protein.
Efficient Listening and Sleeping Scheduling Mechanism Based on Self-Similarity for Duty Cycle Opportunistic Mobile Networks
Authors: Zeng Feng , Dou Yueyue , Chen Zhigang , Liu Hui
Published: July 2017

In opportunistic mobile networks (OppNets), nodes should be in listening state to discover the neighbors for opportunistic message forwarding. While in OppNets, contacts between nodes are sparse, most of the node’s energy is consumed in idle listening state, which highlights the need for energy saving in contact probing. Duty cycle operation can be applied to address this problem. However, it may cause the degradation of network connectivity when the state of node is turned to be sleeping. In this paper, we propose an adaptive scheduling mechanism based on self-similarity, in which LMMSE predictor is used to predict the future contact information. The state of a node will be set as listening or sleeping adaptively according to the predicted result of future contacts with other nodes. Finally, we validate the effectiveness of the proposed mechanism by conducting a large amount of trace-driven simulations, which show that the proposed mechanism outperforms the random working mechanism and periodical working mechanism in terms of the number of effective contacts, delivery ratio, transmission delay and cost.
Using SEBAL to Investigate How Variations in Climate Impact on Crop Evapotranspiration
Authors: Papadavid Giorgos , Neocleous Damianos , Kountios Giorgos , Markou Marinos , Michailidis Anastasios , Ragkos Athanasios , Hadjimitsis Diofantos
Published: July 2017

Water allocation to crops, and especially to the most water intensive ones, has always been of great importance in agricultural processes. Deficit or excessive irrigation could create either crop health-related problems or water over-consumption, respectively. The latter could lead to groundwater depletion and deterioration of its quality through deep percolation of agrichemical residuals. In this context, and under the current conditions where Cyprus is facing effects of possible climate changes, the purpose of this study seeks to estimate the needed crop water requirements of the past (1995–2004) and the corresponding ones of the present (2005–2015) in order to test if there were any significant changes regarding the crop water requirements of the most water-intensive trees in Cyprus. The Mediterranean region has been identified as the region that will suffer the most from variations of climate. Thus the paper refers to effects of these variations on crop evapotranspiration (ETc) using remotely-sensed data from Landsat TM/ETM+/OLI employing a sound methodology used worldwide, the Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land (SEBAL). Though the general feeling is that of changes on climate will consequently affect ETc, our results indicate that there is no significant effect of climate variation on crop evapotranspiration, despite the fact that some climatic factors have changed. Applying Student’s t-test, the mean values for the most water-intensive trees in Cyprus of the 1994–2004 decade have shown no statistical difference from the mean values of 2005–2015 for all the cases, concluding that the climate change taking place in the past decades in Cyprus have either not affected the crop evapotranspiration or the crops have managed to adapt to the new environmental conditions through time.
Synthesis and Characterization of Gelatin-Based Crosslinkers for the Fabrication of Superabsorbent Hydrogels
Authors: Amonpattaratkit Penphitcha , Khunmanee Sureerat , Kim Dong , Park Hansoo
Published: July 2017

In this work, crosslinkers were prepared by conjugating high- and low-molecular-weight gelatin with different mole ratios of itaconic acid (IA) with double bonds. Then, the gelatin-itaconic acid (gelatin-IA) crosslinkers were compared with the gelatin-methacrylate (gelatin-MA) crosslinkers. The molecular weights and structures of gelatin-MA and gelatin-IA were confirmed using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Additionally, the swelling ratio and biodegradation properties of the hydrogels using IA as starting monomers and gelatin-IA and gelatin-MA as crosslinkers were investigated. Both hydrogels prepared with high and low molecular weights of gelatin-IA showed higher swelling ratios than those prepared with the gelatin-MA. The results also showed that absorbent hydrogels with different biodegradabilities and swelling ratios could be prepared by changing the ratio of the gelatin-based crosslinkers.
Effect of the Ultrasonic Surface Rolling Process on the Fretting Fatigue Behavior of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Liu Chengsong , Liu Daoxin , Zhang Xiaohua , Yu Shouming , Zhao Weidong
Published: July 2017

The effect of the ultrasonic surface rolling process (USRP) on the rotary bending fretting fatigue (FF) of Ti-6Al-4V alloy was investigated. The reason for the USRP’s ability to improve the FF resistance of Ti-6Al-4V alloy was studied. The results revealed that the USRP induced a compressive residual stress field with a depth of 530 μm and a maximum residual stress of −930 MPa. Moreover, the surface micro-hardness of the USRP sample was significantly higher than that of the untreated base material (BM) sample, and the USRP yielded a 72.7% increase in the FF limit of the alloy. These further enhanced fatigue properties contributed mainly to the compressive residual stress field with large numerical value and deep distribution, which could effectively suppress FF crack initiation and early propagation. The USRP-induced surface work-hardening had only a minor impact on the FF resistance.
The Effects of Acute High-Intensity Interval Training on Hematological Parameters in Sedentary Subjects
Authors: Belviranli Muaz , Okudan Nilsel , Kabak Banu
Published: July 2017

The objective of the study was to determine the effects of acute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on hematological parameters in sedentary men. Ten healthy, non-smoker, and sedentary men aged between 18 and 24 years participated in the study. All subjects performed four Wingate tests with 4 min intervals between the tests. Blood samples were collected at pre-exercise, immediately after, 3 and 6 h after the fourth Wingate test. Hematological parameters were analyzed in these samples. The results showed that hematocrit percentage, hemoglobin values, red cell count, mean cell volume, platelet count, total white cell count, and counts of the white cell subgroups increased immediately after the acute HIIT and their values began to return to resting levels 3 h after exercise, and completely returned to resting levels 6 h after exercise. In conclusion, acute HIIT causes an inflammatory response in blood.
Characteristics of a Low-Sulfidation Epithermal Deposit in the River Reef Zone and the Watuputih Hill, the Poboya Gold Prospect, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia: Host Rocks and Hydrothermal Alteration
Authors: Syafrizal  , Rivai Tomy Alvin , Yonezu Kotaro , Kusumanto Damar , Watanabe Koichiro , Hede Arie Naftali Hawu
Published: July 2017

Systematic exploration has delineated significant gold mineralization in the River Reef Zone and the presence of a siliceous body at Watuputih Hill, which is a Poboya gold prospect in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. The mineralization is hosted within the Palu Metamorphic Complex. The host rocks consist of granite, biotite gneiss, and biotite schist, which is intercalated by feldspar porphyroblastic biotite schist and amphibolitic schist. The X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of the granite and biotite gneiss suggests that the granitic rocks can be characterized as magnesian arc calc-alkaline rocks, with a weakly peraluminous composition. Alteration minerals were analyzed by a combination of petrographic and X-ray diffraction (XRD). In the River Reef Zone, the hydrothermal alteration zones can be sorted by their proximity to the primary fluid conduit and divided into inner, high-T, and low-T propylitic zones. In Watuputih Hill, the hydrothermal alteration can be divided into advanced argillic and argillic zones. The hydrothermal alteration assemblages indicated that the fluid was at a near-neutral pH in the River Reef Zone, whereas the fluid was acidic within Watuputih Hill. Because the hill is relatively distant from the River Reef Zone, the presence of these zones at Watuputih Hill may be indicative of another mineralization system beneath the hill.
The Effect of Conditioning on the Flotation of Pyrrhotite in the Presence of Chlorite
Authors: Chen Yanfei , Shi Qing , Feng Qiming , Lu Yiping , Zhang Wencai
Published: July 2017

The influence of conditioning on the flotation of pyrrhotite in the presence of chlorite was investigated through flotation tests, sedimentation tests, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The flotation results show that chlorite slimes dramatically impair the flotation of pyrrhotite. Sedimentation and flotation tests reveal that conditioning can effectively remove chlorite slimes from pyrrhotite surfaces, resulting in an enhanced flotation recovery of pyrrhotite. When mixed minerals were conditioned under the natural atmosphere, a faster conditioning speed and longer conditioning time decreased the flotation recovery of pyrrhotite. However, when mixed minerals were conditioned under a nitrogen atmosphere, a more intensive conditioning process provided better flotation results. XPS analyses illustrate that a faster conditioning speed and longer conditioning time under the natural atmosphere accelerates the oxidation of pyrrhotite, leading to a decrease in the flotation recovery of pyrrhotite.
Hydration Effects on the Stability of Calcium Carbonate Pre-Nucleation Species
Authors: Burgos-Cara Alejandro , Putnis Christine , Rodriguez-Navarro Carlos , Ruiz-Agudo Encarnacion
Published: July 2017

Recent experimental evidence and computer modeling have shown that the crystallization of a range of minerals does not necessarily follow classical models and theories. In several systems, liquid precursors, stable pre-nucleation clusters and amorphous phases precede the nucleation and growth of stable mineral phases. However, little is known on the effect of background ionic species on the formation and stability of pre-nucleation species formed in aqueous solutions. Here, we present a systematic study on the effect of a range of background ions on the crystallization of solid phases in the CaCO3-H2O system, which has been thoroughly studied due to its technical and mineralogical importance, and is known to undergo non-classical crystallization pathways. The induction time for the onset of calcium carbonate nucleation and effective critical supersaturation are systematically higher in the presence of background ions with decreasing ionic radii. We propose that the stabilization of water molecules in the pre-nucleation clusters by background ions can explain these results. The stabilization of solvation water hinders cluster dehydration, which is an essential step for precipitation. This hypothesis is corroborated by the observed correlation between parameters such as the macroscopic equilibrium constant for the formation of calcium/carbonate ion associates, the induction time, and the ionic radius of the background ions in the solution. Overall, these results provide new evidence supporting the hypothesis that pre-nucleation cluster dehydration is the rate-controlling step for calcium carbonate precipitation.
15N-, 13C- and 1H-NMR Spectroscopy Characterization and Growth Inhibitory Potency of a Combi-Molecule Synthesized by Acetylation of an Unstable Monoalkyltriazene
Authors: Senhaji Mouhri Zhor , Goodfellow Elliot , Kelley Steven , Stein Robin , Rogers Robin , J. Jean-Claude Bertrand
Published: July 2017

6-(3-Methyltriaz-1-en-1-yl)-1H-benzo[de]isoquinoline-1,3(2H)-dione referred to as EG22 (8a), is an open-chain 3-alkyl-1,2,3-triazene termed “combi-molecule” designed to inhibit poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase (PARP) and damage DNA. To delay its hydrolysis, acetylation of N3 was required. Being a monoalkyl-1,2,3-triazene, EG22 could assume two tautomers in solution or lose nitrogen during the reaction, thereby leading to several acetylated compounds. Instead, one compound was observed and to unequivocally assign its structure, we introduced isotopically labeled reagents in its preparation, with the purpose of incorporating 15N at N2 and 13C in the 3-methyl group. The results showed that the 1,2,3-triazene moiety remained intact, as confirmed by 15N-NMR, coupling patterns between the 15N-labeled N2 and the 13C-labeled methyl group. Furthermore, we undertook heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) and heteronuclear multiple bond correlation (HMBC) experiments that permitted the detection and assignment of all four nitrogens in 6-(3-acetyl-3-methyltriaz-1-en-1-yl)-1H-benzo[de]isoquinoline-1,3(2H)-dione, referred to as ZSM02 (9a), whose structure was further confirmed by X-ray crystallography. The structure showed a remarkable coplanarity between the N-acetyltriazene and the naphtalimide moiety. Thus, we unequivocally assigned 9a as the product of the reaction and compared its growth inhibitory activity with that of its precursor, EG22. ZSM02 exhibited identical growth inhibitory profile as EG22, suggesting that it may be a prodrug of EG22.
Preparation of Carriers Based on ZnO Nanoparticles Decorated on Graphene Oxide (GO) Nanosheets for Efficient Immobilization of Lipase from Candida rugosa
Authors: Zhang Shan , Shi Jie , Deng Qianchun , Zheng Mingming , Wan Chuyun , Zheng Chang , Li Ya , Huang Fenghong
Published: July 2017

Herein, a promising carrier, graphene oxide (GO) decorated with ZnO nanoparticles, denoted as GO/ZnO composite, has been designed and constructed. This carrier was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetry. Then, Candida rugosa lipase (CRL) was immobilized onto the GO-based materials via physical adsorption. Our results indicated that the lipase loading amount on the GO/ZnO composites was about 73.52 mg of protein per g. In the activity assay, the novel immobilized lipase GO/ZnO@CRL, exhibited particularly excellent performance in terms of thermostability and reusability. Within 30 min at 50 °C, the free lipase, GO@CRL and ZnO@CRL had respectively lost 64%, 62% and 41% of their initial activity. However, GO/ZnO@CRL still retained its activity of 63% after 180 min at 50 °C. After reuse of the GO/ZnO@CRL 14 times, 90% of the initial activity can be recovered. Meanwhile, the relative activity of GO@CRL and ZnO@CRL was 28% and 23% under uniform conditions. Hence, GO-decorated ZnO nanoparticles may possess great potential as carriers for immobilizing lipase in a wide range of applications.
Structural Insight into the Recognition of r(UAG) by Musashi-1 RBD2, and Construction of a Model of Musashi-1 RBD1-2 Bound to the Minimum Target RNA
Authors: Iwaoka Ryo , Nagata Takashi , Tsuda Kengo , Imai Takao , Okano Hideyuki , Kobayashi Naohiro , Katahira Masato
Published: July 2017

Musashi-1 (Msi1) controls the maintenance of stem cells and tumorigenesis through binding to its target mRNAs and subsequent translational regulation. Msi1 has two RNA-binding domains (RBDs), RBD1 and RBD2, which recognize r(GUAG) and r(UAG), respectively. These minimal recognition sequences are connected by variable linkers in the Msi1 target mRNAs, however, the molecular mechanism by which Msi1 recognizes its targets is not yet understood. We previously determined the solution structure of the Msi1 RBD1:r(GUAGU) complex. Here, we determined the first structure of the RBD2:r(GUAGU) complex. The structure revealed that the central trinucleotide, r(UAG), is specifically recognized by the intermolecular hydrogen-bonding and aromatic stacking interactions. Importantly, the C-terminal region, which is disordered in the free form, took a certain conformation, resembling a helix. The observation of chemical shift perturbation and intermolecular NOEs, together with increases in the heteronuclear steady-state {1H}-15N NOE values on complex formation, indicated the involvement of the C-terminal region in RNA binding. On the basis of the two complex structures, we built a structural model of consecutive RBDs with r(UAGGUAG) containing both minimal recognition sequences, which resulted in no steric hindrance. The model suggests recognition of variable lengths (n) of the linker up to n = 50 may be possible.
Isoegomaketone Alleviates the Development of Collagen Antibody-Induced Arthritis in Male Balb/c Mice
Authors: Jin Chang , So Yangkang , Nam Bomi , Han Sung , Kim Jin-Baek
Published: July 2017

In this study, we attempted to identify and assess effects of isoegomaketone (IK) isolated from Perilla frutescens var. crispa on the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA was induced in male Balb/c mice by collagen antibody injection. Experimental animals were randomly divided into five groups: normal, collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA), CAIA + IK (5 mg/kg/day), CAIA + IK (10 mg/kg/day), and CAIA + apigenin (16 mg/kg/day) and respective treatments were administered via oral gavage once per day for four days. Mice treated with IK (10 mg/kg/day) developed less severe arthritis than the control CAIA mice. Arthritic score, paw volume, and paw thickness were less significant compared to the control CAIA mice at day seven (73%, 15%, and 14% lower, respectively). Furthermore, histopathological examination of ankle for inflammation showed that infiltration of inflammatory cells and edema formation were reduced by IK treatment. Similarly, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in whole blood was lower in mice treated with IK (10 mg/kg/day) by 85% when compared to CAIA mice. Taken together, treatment with IK delays the onset of the arthritis and alleviates the manifestations of arthritis in CAIA mice.
The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Citrus wilsonii Tanaka Extract in LPS-Induced RAW 264.7 and Primary Mouse Bone Marrow-Derived Dendritic Cells
Authors: Cheng Liping , Ren Yujie , Lin Dingbo , Peng Shu’ang , Zhong Bo , Ma Zhaocheng
Published: July 2017

‘Zhique’ (Citrus wilsonii Tanaka) is a traditional Chinese medicine. Its fruits have been used to treat inflammation-related symptoms, such as cough and sputum, though the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of ‘Zhique’ pulp extract (ZQE) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages and primary mouse bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). The flavonoid profiles of the ZQE were determined by high performance liquid chromatography. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated in LPS-induced inflammatory RAW 264.7 macrophages and BMDCs through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot assays. Naringin was a predominant flavonoid occurring in ZQE, followed by eriocitrin, hesperidin, neohesperidin, rhoifolin, naringenin, and poncirin. ZQE exhibited a very low cytotoxicity in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Meanwhile, ZQE significantly inhibited the production of prostaglandins E2 and secretion of cyclooxygenase-2 protein in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, and markedly suppressed the mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators, such as cyclooxygenase-2, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and IL-6 in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages and/or primary BMDCs. The ZQE inhibited the inflammatory responses in RAW 264.7 macrophages and BMDCs triggered by LPS. The results suggested that ‘Zhique’ has a high potential as a novel therapeutic agent to treat chronic inflammatory diseases.
Molecular Weights of Bovine and Porcine Heparin Samples: Comparison of Chromatographic Methods and Results of a Collaborative Survey
Authors: Bertini Sabrina , Risi Giulia , Guerrini Marco , Carrick Kevin , Szajek Anita , Mulloy Barbara
Published: July 2017

In a collaborative study involving six laboratories in the USA, Europe, and India the molecular weight distributions of a panel of heparin sodium samples were determined, in order to compare heparin sodium of bovine intestinal origin with that of bovine lung and porcine intestinal origin. Porcine samples met the current criteria as laid out in the USP Heparin Sodium monograph. Bovine lung heparin samples had consistently lower average molecular weights. Bovine intestinal heparin was variable in molecular weight; some samples fell below the USP limits, some fell within these limits and others fell above the upper limits. These data will inform the establishment of pharmacopeial acceptance criteria for heparin sodium derived from bovine intestinal mucosa. The method for MW determination as described in the USP monograph uses a single, broad standard calibrant to characterize the chromatographic profile of heparin sodium on high-resolution silica-based GPC columns. These columns may be short-lived in some laboratories. Using the panel of samples described above, methods based on the use of robust polymer-based columns have been developed. In addition to the use of the USP’s broad standard calibrant for heparin sodium with these columns, a set of conditions have been devised that allow light-scattering detected molecular weight characterization of heparin sodium, giving results that agree well with the monograph method. These findings may facilitate the validation of variant chromatographic methods with some practical advantages over the USP monograph method.
The Hydrogen Sulfide-Vitamin B12-Folic Acid Axis: An Intriguing Issue in Chronic Kidney Disease. A Comment on Toohey JI: “Possible Involvement of Hydrosulfide in B12-Dependent Methyl Group Transfer”. Molecules 2017, 22, 582, pii: E582
Authors: Cianciolo Giuseppe , Cappuccilli Maria , La Manna Gaetano
Published: July 2017

Dear Editor, We read with great interest the recent article by John I. Toohey entitled “Possible Involvement of Hydrosulfide in B12-Dependent Methyl Group Transfer”, recently published in Molecules 2017, and we wish to discuss some additional insights raised by this important issue into the nephrological area [1].[...]