bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of customized ferrite cores for a compact six-phase coupled inductor
Authors: Stojanović Goran M. , Lečić Nikola , Kojić Sanja , Vasiljević Dragana
Published: April 2018

Demands for circuits with higher density in modern electronics have imposed the necessity for electronic components with compact size, high frequency operational range, high efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This requires the new design of electronic components, such as multi-phase coupled inductor with ferrite Ni-Zn core which is studied in this paper. Printed circuit board (PCB) technology was used to develop six symmetrical conductive copper coils, while specially designed innovative ferrite core has been mounted through the PCB, to create a compact component. For ferrite core, two Ni-Zn materials denoted with C2025 and CN20 were used. Testing of the component has been performed using the following characterization methods: (a) structural characterization using scanning electron microscope; (b) electrical characterization using Impedance analyzer; and (c) mechanical characterization using Nanoindenter. It can be concluded from tests carried out (load-displacement curves and hardness module) that designed and manufactured component can be exposed to mechanical stress and vibrations and can be used in applications such as DC/DC convertors.
Trapping performance improvement of submicron particles in electrostatic cyclone by the applied magnetic field
Authors: Zhang Jianping , Zha Zhenting , Che Peng , Pan Weiguo , Liu Jiang
Published: April 2018

Aiming at improving the trapping performance of submicron particles, the magnetic field was introduced into the outer vortex electrostatic cyclone (ESC), and the dust-removal mechanism under the action of electromagnetic field was investigated. Besides, the theoretical model was established to analyze the interaction between fluid flow field, electromagnetic field and particle dynamic field, and the influences of magnetic field on submicron particles collection efficiency at different working voltages and gas velocities were simulated and discussed. The results indicate that the introduction of magnetic field obviously enhances the ESC trapping performance for submicron particles. High working voltage and low gas velocity at a given magnetic flux density are both more favorable for trapping submicron particles, but the magnetic field effect is more obvious at high gas velocity, as well as at low working voltage. Furthermore, at the same working voltage and gas velocity, the contribution of magnetic field to collection efficiency increases with the applied magnetic flux density increased, but the increment gradually decreases, which can lay significant foundation for optimal design of submicron particles removal in ESC.
Free radical scavenging activity and cytotoxicity assay of Cissus sicyoides berries
Authors: Barnaby Andrea Goldson , Duffus Kailesha , Gupte Sonal
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND: The leaves of Cissus sicyoides has been utilized in traditional medicine. The berries however are underutilized and do not appear to be widely consumed. OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to further evaluate the antioxidant properties of C. sicyoides berries. METHODS: The free radical scavenging activity and IC50 value (inhibitory concentration) of Cissus sicyoides berries was determined utilizing the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Aqueous two-phase partitioning was utilized for preliminary purification of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL). PAL activity was determined using an endpoint spectrophotometric assay. The cytotoxicity of the berries was assessed by use of the Brine shrimp assay. RESULTS: C. sicyoides berries exhibit excellent free radical scavenging activity with an IC50 value of 0.99 mg/mL which is intermediate to that of raspberries and blackberries. The berries are a potential source of PAL with enzyme activity of 0.10±0.01 U/mg protein. CONCLUSION: Preliminary investigations suggest that the fruits are non toxic and may be utilized as a source of antioxidants. It is evident that the plant is a good source of bioactive compounds with significant potential for food, beverage and medical applications.
Patriotism and Partisanship in Post-Union Scotland, 1724–37
Authors: Watson Amy
Published: April 2018

This article examines the rise of the Scottish Patriot movement in the 1720s and 1730s, asserting that Patriotism provided a partisan channel for Scots who supported the British union, but took issue with the English Whig ministry and its disregard for their nation's political and economic needs. It traces three events critical to the development of Scottish Patriotism: the malt tax crisis of 1724–5, the election of 1734 and the Porteous crisis of 1736–7. These moments of political confrontation gave Scottish Patriots an opportunity to advance a platform that included the reform of Britain's tax structure, investment in Scottish manufactures and an interventionist American-focused foreign policy. First and foremost, Scottish Patriots sought to create a more equitable British political system, in which Scotland's rights and institutions were accorded the same value as England's. The Patriots' message proved attractive to Scotland's political elite and urban commercial classes, giving rise to new partisan alignments and new ideas about Scotland's future within the British state.
D-dencichine Regulates Thrombopoiesis by Promoting Megakaryocyte Adhesion, Migration and Proplatelet Formation
Authors: Ding Shilan , Wang Min , Fang Song , Xu Huibo , Fan Huiting , Tian Yu , Zhai Yadong , Lu Shan , Qi Xin , Wei Fei , Sun Guibo , Sun Xiaobo
Published: April 2018

Life-threatening chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia can increase the risk of bleeding due to a dramatic low platelet count, which may limit or delay treatment schedules in cancer patients. The pressing need for the rapid alleviation of the symptoms of thrombocytopenia has prompted us to search for novel highly effective and safe thrombopoietic agents. Pharmacological investigations have indicated that dencichine can prevent and treat blood loss and increase the number of platelets. On the basis of the neurotoxicity of dencichine, D-dencichine is artificially synthesized in the laboratory. Our initial results showed that D-dencichine had potential to elevate peripheral platelet levels in mice with carboplatin-induced thrombocytopenia. However, the mechanisms of D-dencichine on thrombopoiesis have been poorly understood. In this study, we found that sequential administration of D-dencichine had a distinct ability to elevate numbers of reticulated platelets, and did not alter their clearance. Moreover, we demonstrated that D-dencichine was able to modulate the return of hematopoietic factors to normal levels, including thrombopoietin and IL-6. However, subsequent analysis revealed that D-dencichine treatment had no direct effects on megakaryocytes proliferation, differentiation, and polyploidization. Further in vitro studies, we demonstrated for the first time that D-dencichine significantly stimulated megakaryocyte adhesion, migration, and proplatelet formation in a dose-dependent manner through extracellular regulated protein kinases1/2 (ERK1/2) and v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog (AKT) signaling pathways. This study sufficiently characterized the role of the effects of D-dencichine treatment on the regulation of thrombopoiesis and provided a promising avenue for CIT treating.
Stark Broadening of Cr III Spectral Lines: DO White Dwarfs
Authors: Dimitrijević Milan , Chougule Abhishek
Published: April 2018

Using the modified semiempirical method of Dimitrijević and Konjević, Stark widths have been calculated for six Cr III transitions, for an electron density of 10 17 cm ‒ 3 and for temperatures from 5000–80,000 K. Results have been used for the investigation of the influence of Stark broadening on spectral lines in cool DO white dwarf atmospheres. Calculated Stark widths will be implemented in the STARK-B database, which is also a part of the Virtual Atomic and Molecular Data Center (VAMDC).
DRIFT Study on Promotion Effect of the Keggin Structure over V2O5-MoO3/TiO2 Catalysts for Low Temperature NH3-SCR Reaction
Authors: Wu Rui , Zhang Ningqiang , Li Lingcong , He Hong , Song Liyun , Qiu Wenge
Published: April 2018

Heteropoly acids (HPAs) with the Keggin structure have been widely used in NOx removal. Two kinds of catalysts (those with and without the Keggin structure) are prepared for studying the effect of the Keggin structure on the NH3-SCR reaction. A series of in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFT) analyses are conducted to investigate the surface-adsorbed species on the catalysts during the SCR reaction. The mechanism for enhancing low-temperature activity of the catalysts is proposed. Furthermore, the effect of NH4+ in the Keggin structure is also investigated. Results indicate that both the Langmuir–Hinshelwood (L-H) and Eley–Rideal (E-R) mechanisms occurred in the NH3-SCR reaction over the catalyst with the Keggin structure (Cat-A); in addition, when more acid sites are provided, NOx species activity is improved and more NH4+ ions participate in reaction over Cat-A, thus promoting SCR activity.
The Rental Prices of the Apartments under the New Tourist Environment: A Hedonic Price Model Applied to the Spanish Sun-and-Beach Destinations
Authors: Perles Ribes José , Moreno Izquierdo Luis , Ramón Rodríguez Ana , Such Devesa María
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this article is to estimate a model of hedonic prices that is applied to apartments that are rented in the Spanish coastline, based on data that has been provided by Tecnitasa. The results confirm the relevance of the determinants that were previously identified by the literature and point to new determinants, such as tourism competitiveness and online reputation, as future drivers of prices in the new tourist environment.
Time-Dependent Shear Stress Distributions during Extended Flow Perfusion Culture of Bone Tissue Engineered Constructs
Authors: Williams Cortes , Kadri Olufemi , Voronov Roman , Sikavitsas Vassilios
Published: April 2018

Flow perfusion bioreactors have been extensively investigated as a promising culture method for bone tissue engineering, due to improved nutrient delivery and shear force-mediated osteoblastic differentiation. However, a major drawback impeding the transition to clinically-relevant tissue regeneration is the inability to non-destructively monitor constructs during culture. To alleviate this shortcoming, we investigated the distribution of fluid shear forces in scaffolds cultured in flow perfusion bioreactors using computational fluid dynamic techniques, analyzed the effects of scaffold architecture on the shear forces and monitored tissue mineralization throughout the culture period using microcomputed tomography. For this study, we dynamically seeded one million adult rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on 85% porous poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) polymeric spunbonded scaffolds. After taking intermittent samples over 16 days, the constructs were imaged and reconstructed using microcomputed tomography. Fluid dynamic simulations were performed using a custom in-house lattice Boltzmann program. By taking samples at different time points during culture, we are able to monitor the mineralization and resulting changes in flow-induced shear distributions in the porous scaffolds as the constructs mature into bone tissue engineered constructs, which has not been investigated previously in the literature. From the work conducted in this study, we proved that the average shear stress per construct consistently increases as a function of culture time, resulting in an increase at Day 16 of 113%.
The Elderly Perceived Meanings and Values of Virtual Reality Leisure Activities: A Means-End Chain Approach
Authors: Lin Cheng-Shih , Jeng Mei-Yuan , Yeh Tsu-Ming
Published: April 2018

This study uses means-end chain (MEC) techniques to examine the awareness, decision-making procedure, and personal values of the elderly with regard to virtual reality leisure activities. The results of the study show that elderly respondents value virtual reality leisure activities that are fun, safe, and easy. In terms of outcome benefits, elderly respondents value feeling physically and mentally healthy, firsthand experience, and satisfied curiosity. In value terms, elderly respondents hope that their chosen virtual reality leisure activities improve not only their relationships with others, but also their enjoyment, quality of life, and sense of belonging. The results show that, while consumers with different awarenesses of virtual reality leisure activities have different decision-making processes, they share creating “good memories” as the terminal value with the most significant effect. This presents a potential opportunity to promote virtual reality leisure activities. Relevant bodies or enterprises can seek to create good memories in consumers by developing activities that are safe and fun, promote good health, and provide good service, thereby attracting the interest of elderly consumers.
Quantifying Correlation Uncertainty Risk in Credit Derivatives Pricing
Authors: Turfus Colin
Published: April 2018

We propose a simple but practical methodology for the quantification of correlation risk in the context of credit derivatives pricing and credit valuation adjustment (CVA), where the correlation between rates and credit is often uncertain or unmodelled. We take the rates model to be Hull–White (normal) and the credit model to be Black–Karasinski (lognormal). We summarise recent work furnishing highly accurate analytic pricing formulae for credit default swaps (CDS) including with defaultable Libor flows, extending this to the situation where they are capped and/or floored. We also consider the pricing of contingent CDS with an interest rate swap underlying. We derive therefrom explicit expressions showing how the dependence of model prices on the uncertain parameter(s) can be captured in analytic formulae that are readily amenable to computation without recourse to Monte Carlo or lattice-based computation. In so doing, we crucially take into account the impact on model calibration of the uncertain (or unmodelled) parameters.
The Impact of Revenue Diversification on Bank Profitability and Stability: Empirical Evidence from South Asian Countries
Authors: Nisar Shoaib , Peng Ke , Wang Susheng , Ashraf Badar
Published: April 2018

This paper is a contribution to the ongoing debate on the benefits and drawbacks of bank revenue diversification. Revenue diversification may benefit banks if diversified activities are inherently less risky and possess high returns, while it may hurt banks if diversified activities are more risky and have low returns. Analyzing a panel dataset of 200 commercial banks from all South Asian countries, we found that overall revenue diversification into non-interest income has a positive impact on the profitability and stability of South Asian commercial banks. We further observed that different types of non-interest income-generating activities have different impacts on bank performance and stability. While fees and commission incomes have a negative impact on the profitability and stability of South Asian commercial banks, other non-interest income has a positive impact. Our results imply that banks can benefit from revenue diversification if they diversify into specific types of non-interest income-generating activities. Our findings are robust and relevant to the use of alternative measures of revenue diversification, profitability and stability.
Expression, Tissue Localization and Serodiagnostic Potential of Echinococcus granulosus Leucine Aminopeptidase
Authors: Wu Maodi , Yan Min , Xu Jing , Liang Yuqing , Gu Xiaobin , Xie Yue , Jing Bo , Lai Weimin , Peng Xuerong , Yang Guangyou
Published: April 2018

Echinococcus granulosus is the causative agent of cystic echinococcosis (CE), a widespread parasitic zoonosis. Leucine aminopeptidases (LAPs) of the M17 peptidase family have important functions in regulating the balance of catabolism and anabolism, cell maintenance, growth and defense. In this study, we presented a bioinformatic characterization and experimentally determined the tissue distribution characteristics of E. granulosus LAP (Eg-LAP), and explored its potential value for diagnosis of CE in sheep based on indirect ELISA. Through fluorescence immunohistochemistry, we found that Eg-LAP was present in the tegument and hooks of PSCs, the whole germinal layer and adult worm parenchymatous tissue. Western blotting results revealed that the recombinant protein could be identified using E. granulosus-infected sheep serum. The diagnostic value of this recombinant protein was assessed by indirect ELISA, and compared with indirect ELISA based on hydatid fluid antigen. The sensitivity and specificity rEgLAP-ELISA were 95.8% (23/24) and 79.09% (87/110), respectively, while using hydatid fluid as antigen showed the values 41.7% (10/24) and 65.45% (72/110). This is the first report concerning leucine aminopeptidase from E. granulosus, and the results showed that Eg-LAP belong to M17 peptidase families, and that it is involved in important biological function of E. granulosus. Furthermore, rEg-LAP is appropriate for diagnosing and monitoring CE in sheep in field. Development of a rapid test using rEg-LAP to diagnose sheep CE deserves further study.
Prenatal Metformin Therapy Attenuates Hypertension of Developmental Origin in Male Adult Offspring Exposed to Maternal High-Fructose and Post-Weaning High-Fat Diets
Authors: Tain You-Lin , Wu Kay , Lee Wei-Chia , Leu Steve , Chan Julie
Published: April 2018

Widespread consumption of a Western diet, comprised of highly refined carbohydrates and fat, may play a role in the epidemic of hypertension. Hypertension can take origin from early life. Metformin is the preferred treatment for type 2 diabetes. We examined whether prenatal metformin therapy can prevent maternal high-fructose plus post-weaning high-fat diets-induced hypertension of developmental origins via regulation of nutrient sensing signals, uric acid, oxidative stress, and the nitric oxide (NO) pathway. Gestating Sprague–Dawley rats received regular chow (ND) or chow supplemented with 60% fructose diet (HFR) throughout pregnancy and lactation. Male offspring were onto either the ND or high-fat diet (HFA) from weaning to 12 weeks of age. A total of 40 male offspring were assigned to five groups (n = 8/group): ND/ND, HFR/ND, ND/HFA, HFR/HFA, and HFR/HFA+metformin. Metformin (500 mg/kg/day) was administered via gastric gavage for three weeks during the pregnancy period. Combined maternal HFR plus post-weaning HFA induced hypertension in male adult offspring, which prenatal metformin therapy prevented. The protective effects of prenatal metformin therapy on HFR/HFA-induced hypertension, including downregulation of the renin-angiotensin system, decrease in uric acid level, and reduction of oxidative stress. Our results highlighted that the programming effects of metformin administered prenatally might be different from those reported in adults, and that deserves further elucidation.
Novel (1E,3E,5E)-1,6-bis(Substituted phenyl)hexa-1,3,5-triene Analogs Inhibit Melanogenesis in B16F10 Cells and Zebrafish
Authors: Oh Jisun , Kim Jungeun , Jang Jin Ho , Lee Sangwoo , Park Chul Min , Kim Woo-Keun , Kim Jong-Sang
Published: April 2018

The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-melanogenic activity of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene and its derivatives in B16F10 murine melanoma cells and zebrafish embryos. Twenty five (1E,3E,5E)-1,6-bis(substituted phenyl)hexa-1,3,5-triene analogs were synthesized and their non-cytotoxic effects were predictively analyzed using three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship approach. Inhibitory activities of these synthetic compounds against melanin synthesis were determined by evaluating melanin content and melanogenic regulatory enzyme expression in B16F10 cells. The anti-melanogenic activity was verified by observing body pigmentation in zebrafishes treated with these compounds. Compound #2, #4, and #6 effectively decreased melanogenesis induced by α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. In particular, compound #2 remarkably lowered the mRNA and protein expression levels of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase (TYR), tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TYRP1), and TYRP2 in B16F10 cells and substantially reduced skin pigmentation in the developed larvae of zebrafish. These findings suggest that compound #2 may be used as an anti-melanogenic agent for cosmetic purpose.
Basic Heat Exchanger Performance Evaluation Method on OTEC
Authors: Yasunaga Takeshi , Noguchi Takafumi , Morisaki Takafumi , Ikegami Yasuyuki
Published: April 2018

Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) harvests the power from the thermal energy in the ocean, which is reserved in the ocean as the temperature difference between warm surface and cold deep seawaters. In the energy conversion, the heat exchangers transfer the thermal energy to the heat engine, which converts it into power. The pressure drops yielded by piping, valve and heat exchangers cause pump loads, which show significant negative power with respect to net power in OTEC. The heat transfer performance and the pressure drop in heat exchanger depend on the types and shapes of each heat transfer area. Generally, heat exchangers with higher friction factors yield higher heat transfer performance and vice versa. However, heat transfer performance and pressure drop are separately evaluated and there is no comprehensive performance evaluation index for OTEC power take-off. Therefore, this research proposes a new simplified overall performance evaluation method for heat exchangers, which can be comprehensively and easily applied and takes into consideration the heat transfer performance and the pressure drop. The evaluation results on plate-type heat exchangers show that the overall performance in each heat exchanger are elucidated and are quantitatively compared.
The Influence of Milling and Spark Plasma Sintering on the Microstructure and Properties of the Al7075 Alloy
Authors: Molnárová Orsolya , Málek Přemysl , Veselý Jozef , Minárik Peter , Lukáč František , Chráska Tomáš , Novák Pavel , Průša Filip
Published: April 2018

The compact samples of an Al7075 alloy were prepared by a combination of gas atomization, high energy milling, and spark plasma sintering. The predominantly cellular morphology observed in gas atomized powder particles was completely changed by mechanical milling. The continuous-like intermetallic phases present along intercellular boundaries were destroyed; nevertheless, a small amount of Mg(Zn,Cu,Al)2 phase was observed also in the milled powder. Milling resulted in a severe plastic deformation of the material and led to a reduction of grain size from several µm into the nanocrystalline region. The combination of these microstructural characteristics resulted in abnormally high microhardness values exceeding 300 HV. Consolidation through spark plasma sintering (SPS) resulted in bulk samples with negligible porosity. The heat exposition during SPS led to precipitation of intermetallic phases from the non-equilibrium microstructure of both gas atomized and milled powders. SPS of the milled powder resulted in a recrystallization of the severely deformed structure. An ultra-fine grained structure (grain size close to 500 nm) with grains divided primarily by high-angle boundaries was formed. A simultaneous release of stored deformation energy and an increase in the grain size caused a drop of microhardness to values close to 150 HV. This value was retained even after annealing at 425 °C.
Effect of the Microstructure and Distribution of the Second Phase on the Stress Corrosion Cracking of Biomedical Mg-Zn-Zr-xSr Alloys
Authors: Chen Lianxi , Sheng Yinying , Wang Xiaojian , Zhao Xueyang , Liu Hui , Li Wei
Published: April 2018

The stress corrosion cracking (SCC) properties of the bi-directional forged (BDF) Mg-4Zn-0.6Zr-xSr (ZK40-xSr, x = 0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6 wt %) alloys were studied by the slow strain rate tensile (SSRT) testing in modified simulated body fluid (m-SBF). The average grain size of the BDF alloys were approximately two orders of magnitude smaller than those of the as-cast alloys. However, grain refinement increased the hydrogen embrittlement effect, leading to a higher SCC susceptibility in the BDF ZK40-0/0.4Sr alloys. Apart from the grain refinements effect, the forging process also changed the distribution of second phase from the net-like shape along the grain boundary to a uniformly isolated island shape in the BDF alloys. The SCC susceptibility of the BDF ZK40-1.2/1.6Sr alloys were lower than those of the as-cast alloys. The change of distribution of the second phase suppressed the adverse effect of Sr on the SCC susceptibility in high Sr–containing magnesium alloys. The results indicated the stress corrosion behavior of magnesium alloys was related to the average grain size of matrix and the distribution and shape of the second phase.
Discovery of a Manduca sexta Allatotropin Antagonist from a Manduca sexta Allatotropin Receptor Homology Model
Authors: Kai Zhen-Peng , Zhu Jing-Jing , Deng Xi-Le , Yang Xin-Ling , Chen Shan-Shan
Published: April 2018

Insect G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) have important roles in modulating biology, physiology and behavior. They have been identified as candidate targets for next-generation insecticides, yet these targets have been relatively poorly exploited for insect control. In this study, we present a pipeline of novel Manduca sexta allatotropin (Manse-AT) antagonist discovery with homology modeling, docking, molecular dynamics simulation and structure-activity relationship. A series of truncated and alanine-replacement analogs of Manse-AT were assayed for the stimulation of juvenile hormone biosynthesis. The minimum sequence required to retain potent biological activity is the C-terminal amidated octapeptide Manse-AT (6–13). We identified three residues essential for bioactivity (Thr4, Arg6 and Phe8) by assaying alanine-replacement analogs of Manse-AT (6–13). Alanine replacement of other residues resulted in reduced potency but bioactivity was retained. The 3D structure of the receptor (Manse-ATR) was built and the binding pocket was identified. The binding affinities of all the analogs were estimated by calculating the free energy of binding. The calculated binding affinities corresponded to the biological activities of the analogs, which supporting our localization of the binding pocket. Then, based on the docking and molecular dynamics studies of Manse-AT (10–13), we described it can act as a potent Manse-AT antagonist. The antagonistic effect on JH biosynthesis of Manse-AT (10–13) validated our hypothesis. The IC50 value of antagonist Manse-AT (10–13) is 0.9 nM. The structure-activity relationship of antagonist Manse-AT (10–13) was also studied for the further purpose of investigating theoretically the structure factors influencing activity. These data will be useful for the design of new Manse-AT agonist and antagonist as potential pest control agents.
Role of Phenolic Acids from the Rhizosphere Soils of Panax notoginseng as a Double-Edge Sword in the Occurrence of Root-Rot Disease
Authors: Zhao Ya-Meng , Cheng Yong-Xian , Ma Yu-Nan , Chen Chuan-Jiao , Xu Fu-Rong , Dong Xian
Published: April 2018

Chemical agents in the rhizosphere soils of plants might have an influence on root-rot disease, which therefore might reveal the mechanism of root rot in Panax notoginseng (P. notoginseng). With this hypothesis the alterations of phenolic acids (PAs) in the rhizosphere soils of P. notoginseng after pathogen infection were determined. The effects of PAs on the growth of Fusarium oxysporum (F. oxysporum), a fungal pathogenic factor for P. notoginseng, as well as production of fusaric acid, a wilting agent for the plants, were also examined. The results indicate the presence of five PAs (ferulic acid, syringic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, p-coumaric acid, and vanillic acid) in the rhizosphere soils of P. notoginseng, whose contents in the rhizosphere soils of healthy plants are higher than those of the diseased ones. Further we found that individual PA could inhibit the mycelium growth and spore production of F. oxysporum, but stimulate fusaric acid production as well, disclosing the double-edge sword role of PAs in the occurrence of root rot of P. notoginseng and paving the way for the intervention of P. notoginseng root rot via balancing PAs.
Synthesis of Novel C-2- or C-15-Labeled BODIPY—Estrone Conjugates
Authors: Bacsa Ildikó , Konc Csilla , Orosz Anna Boglárka , Kecskeméti Gábor , Rigó Réka , Özvegy-Laczka Csilla , Mernyák Erzsébet
Published: April 2018

Novel BODIPY–estrone conjugates were synthesized via Cu(I)-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). Estrone-alkynes or an estrone-azide as starting compounds were synthesized via Michael addition or Sonogashira reaction as key steps. Fluorescent dyes based on BODIPY-core were provided by azide or alkyne functional groups. Fluorescent labeling of estrone was efficiently achieved at the C-2 or C-15 position. The newly-elaborated coupling procedures might have a broad applicability in the synthesis of fluorescent-labeled estrone conjugates suitable for biological assays.
Synthesis, Structural Studies and Biological Evaluation of Connections of Thiosemicarbazide, 1,2,4-Triazole and 1,3,4-Thiadiazole with Palmitic Acid
Authors: Jóźwiak Michał , Stępień Karolina , Wrzosek Małgorzata , Olejarz Wioletta , Kubiak-Tomaszewska Grażyna , Filipowska Anna , Filipowski Wojciech , Struga Marta
Published: April 2018

Thirty new derivatives of palmitic acid were efficiently synthesized. All obtained compounds can be divided into three groups of derivatives: Thiosemicarbazides (compounds 1–10), 1,2,4-triazoles (compounds 1a–10a) and 1,3,4-thiadiazoles (compounds 1b–10b) moieties. 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and MS methods were used to confirm the structure of derivatives. All obtained compounds were tested in vitro against a number of microorganisms, including Gram-positive cocci, Gram-negative rods and Candida albicans. Compounds 4, 5, 6, 8 showed significant inhibition against C. albicans. The range of MIC values was 50–1.56 μg/mL. The halogen atom, especially at the 3rd position of the phenyl group was significantly important for antifungal activity. The biological activity against Candida albicans and selected molecular descriptors were used as a basis for QSAR models, that have been determined by means of multiple linear regression. The models have been validated by means of the Leave-One-Out Cross Validation. The obtained QSAR models were characterized by high determination coefficients and good prediction power.
Pepsin Egg White Hydrolysate Improves Glucose Metabolism Complications Related to Metabolic Syndrome in Zucker Fatty Rats
Authors: Garcés-Rimón Marta , González Cristina , Vera Gema , Uranga José-A. , López-Fandiño Rosina , López-Miranda Visitación , Miguel Marta
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the administration of two egg white hydrolysates on glucose metabolism complications related to Metabolic Syndrome (MS) in Zucker fatty rats (ZFR). ZFR were given 750 mg/kg/day of egg white hydrolyzed with pepsin (HEW1) or with aminopeptidase (HEW2) for 12 weeks in their drinking water or just water. Zucker lean rats (ZLR), which received water, were used as a control. The presence of tactile allodynia, which is a sign of peripheral neuropathy, was assessed. Blood samples and pancreas were collected to determine the effect of the hydrolysates on glucose metabolism. The intake of HEW1 significantly lowered plasma insulin levels and improved the quantitative indexes of insulin resistance, insulin sensitivity, and pancreatic β-cell functionality (HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, and QUICKI, respectively), but non-significant changes were observed in group treated with HEW2. Compared to ZLR, ZFR showed tactile allodynia, but the consumption of both hydrolysates significantly increased mechanical sensitivity in ZFR. In conclusion, HEW1 pepsin could improve the glucose metabolism abnormalities associated with MS in obese Zucker rats.
Flavonoid Functions in Plants and Their Interactions with Other Organisms
Authors: Mathesius Ulrike
Published: April 2018

Flavonoids are structurally diverse secondary metabolites in plants, with a multitude of functions. These span from functions in regulating plant development, pigmentation, and UV protection, to an array of roles in defence and signalling between plants and microorganisms. Because of their prevalence in the human diet, many flavonoids constitute important components of medicinal plants and are used in the control of inflammation and cancer prevention. Advances in the elucidation of flavonoid biosynthesis and its regulation have led to an increasing number of studies aimed at engineering the flavonoid pathway for enhancing nutritional value and plant defences against pathogens and herbivores, as well as modifying the feeding value of pastures. Many future opportunities await for the exploitation of this colourful pathway in crops, pastures, and medicinal plants.
Incorporation of Coumarin-Based Fluorescent Monomers into Co-Oligomeric Molecules
Authors: Teixeira Edgar , Lima João , Parola A. , Branco Paula
Published: April 2018

With the purpose of modifying organic fluorescent dyes based on the coumarin scaffold, and developing and evaluating a route to its incorporation into a polymeric backbone, a study was conducted on the co-polymerization of 3-vinylcoumarins with styrene and methyl acrylate using 2,2-azobis(isobutyronitrile) (AIBN) as the radical initiator. The structural and photophysical characterization proved the incorporation of the coumarin monomers into the polymeric chain and further showed a decrease in the fluorescence quantum yields in the co-oligomers.
Effect of Ionizing Radiation on the Chemical Structure and the Physical Properties of Polycaprolactones of Different Molecular Weight
Authors: Navarro Rodrigo , Burillo Guillermina , Adem Esbaide , Marcos-Fernández Angel
Published: April 2018

Polymers used in the biomedical sector can be exposed to ionizing radiation (X-ray, gamma) in vivo as implants or ex vivo for sterilization purposes (gamma, electron beam). This ionizing radiation can, at certain levels, cause degradation of the polymer. Polycaprolactones (PCL) of different molecular weights were irradiated with electron beam and the changes in their chemical structure and physical properties with the dose were evaluated. Electron beam irradiation produced crosslinking and chain scission in the PCL chain without significant predominance of one mechanism over the other. Minimum dose for gelation decreased with the increase in PCL molecular weight whereas crosslinking efficiency was almost independent of PCL molecular weight. Carboxylic groups, hydroxyl groups and new saturated hydrocarbon species were detected by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). These species were consistent with a mechanism where chain scission could take place at any bond in the PCL chain with preference in the –COO–CH2– bond. Crosslinking decreased significantly the crystallization temperature of PCL. Tensile properties decreased continuously with the increase in dose. Irradiation with gamma rays produced a faster decay in mechanical properties than electron beam.
An Optimal Investment Strategy for Insurers in Incomplete Markets
Authors: Badaoui Mohamed , Fernández Begoña , Swishchuk Anatoliy
Published: April 2018

In this paper we consider the problem of an insurance company where the wealth of the insurer is described by a Cramér-Lundberg process. The insurer is allowed to invest in a risky asset with stochastic volatility subject to the influence of an economic factor and the remaining surplus in a bank account. The price of the risky asset and the economic factor are modeled by a system of correlated stochastic differential equations. In a finite horizon framework and assuming that the market is incomplete, we study the problem of maximizing the expected utility of terminal wealth. When the insurer’s preferences are exponential, an existence and uniqueness theorem is proven for the non-linear Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation (HJB). The optimal strategy and the value function have been produced in closed form. In addition and in order to show the connection between the insurer’s decision and the correlation coefficient we present two numerical approaches: A Monte-Carlo method based on the stochastic representation of the solution of the insurer problem via Feynman-Kac’s formula, and a mixed Finite Difference Monte-Carlo one. Finally the results are presented in the case of Scott model.
Semantic Edge Based Disparity Estimation Using Adaptive Dynamic Programming for Binocular Sensors
Authors: Zhu Dongchen , Li Jiamao , Wang Xianshun , Peng Jingquan , Shi Wenjun , Zhang Xiaolin
Published: April 2018

Disparity calculation is crucial for binocular sensor ranging. The disparity estimation based on edges is an important branch in the research of sparse stereo matching and plays an important role in visual navigation. In this paper, we propose a robust sparse stereo matching method based on the semantic edges. Some simple matching costs are used first, and then a novel adaptive dynamic programming algorithm is proposed to obtain optimal solutions. This algorithm makes use of the disparity or semantic consistency constraint between the stereo images to adaptively search parameters, which can improve the robustness of our method. The proposed method is compared quantitatively and qualitatively with the traditional dynamic programming method, some dense stereo matching methods, and the advanced edge-based method respectively. Experiments show that our method can provide superior performance on the above comparison.
Effect of Economic Vulnerability on Competitive Advantages, Enterprise Performance and Sustainability
Authors: Al Mamun Abdullah , Nawi Noorshella , Ibrahim Mohd , Muniady Rajennd
Published: April 2018

This study investigated the effect of economic vulnerability upon competitive advantages, performance, and sustainability of micro-enterprises owned and managed by micro-entrepreneurs who participate in varied development initiatives in Peninsular Malaysia. Upon adopting the cross-sectional design, data were randomly collected from selected 300 micro-entrepreneurs from the eKasih program (national poverty data bank) located in four states of Peninsular Malaysia. The quantitative data were collected by conducting structured interview sessions with the respondents held from September until November 2017. The findings revealed that the state of economic vulnerability among the respondents had a significantly negative effect on the aspects of competitive advantages, performance, and sustainability among micro-enterprises in Peninsular Malaysia. Despite of the widely acknowledged and empirically examined effects of socioeconomic antecedents upon micro-enterprise performance, the focus on the effect of a more comprehensive measure of socioeconomic condition, that is, economic vulnerability, among low-income households appears to be scant. Hence, the outcomes of this study are able to provide critical insights for development organizations pertaining to development programs and their effectiveness on economically vulnerable, particularly among low-income households in Peninsular Malaysia.
The Vietnam War, the Church, the Christian Democratic Party and the Italian Left Catholics
Authors: Saresella Daniela
Published: April 2018

Over the years of the Cold War, the conflict in Vietnam assumed the significance of a clash between two civilizations, the West and communism. Italian Catholics thus found themselves not only invoking the end of the conflict, but also expressing their evaluations on the choices made in international politics by the two superpowers. The positions assumed by the ecclesiastic Institution, the Christian Democrats and the Catholic world in Italy towards the war in Indochina were not identical: in fact, if—with a few exceptions—the ecclesiastic hierarchy was distinguished by its extreme caution, in the Catholic party different positions became manifest. It was mainly in Catholic associations, and in general amongst believers closer to the experience of the Vatican Council, that a radical sense of aversion to U.S. foreign policy developed.
A Novel Method of Protection to Prevent Reverse Power Flow Based on Neuro-Fuzzy Networks for Smart Grid
Authors: Hadi Abdulwahid Ali , Wang Shaorong
Published: April 2018

This paper addresses the energy challenges related to the weak protection of renewable energy from reverse energy flow and expanding access to high-quality energy at the same time. Furthermore, this paper focuses on participation in the global transition to clean and low-carbon energy systems. Moreover, the increased demand for renewable energy seems to likely depend on whether it will be possible to greatly accelerate rates of progress toward increased efficiency, de-carbonization, greater generating diversity and lower pollutant emissions. This paper focuses on the protection of renewable energy technologies because they can be particularly attractive in dispersed areas and therefore, represent an important option for rural areas that lack electrical energy and distribution infrastructure. This paper proposes an improved protection device for a reverse power protection system using a new intelligent decision support system (IDSS). The IDSS is a support system for decision making, which makes extensive use of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. The new method integrates the powerful specification for neural networks and fuzzy inference systems. The main advantage of this method is that it causes a decrease in the steady state oscillation for the reverse power relay. In addition, the proposed method has the ability to monitor extreme environmental conditions. The generator can be converted into a motor when the steam supply to a turbine is interrupted while the generator is still connected to a grid (or operates in parallel with another generator). As a result, the generator will become a synchronous motor and will actually cause significant mechanical damage. The reverse energy protection device should be included in the generator protection scheme. Smart grids use communication networks with sophisticated algorithms to ensure coordination between protection systems. ZigBee is a newly developed technology that can be used in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) to comply with the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. Low data rates, low power consumption and low cost are key features of ZigBee. The execution of star, tree and mesh topologies as well as support comparison is based on end-to-end delay, throughput, medium access control load in addition to sent and received traffic parameters. The use of star topology obtained a delay of 0.2 s. The simulation results show that this method is superior to the traditional method in terms of speed and steady-state oscillation.
Shortcut Biological Nitrogen Removal (SBNR) in an MFC Anode Chamber under Microaerobic Conditions: The Effect of C/N Ratio and Kinetic Study
Authors: Bavasso Irene , Montanaro Daniele , Petrucci Elisabetta , Di Palma Luca
Published: April 2018

In this work, the feasibility of the Shortcut Biological Nitrogen Removal (SBNR) in the anodic chamber of a Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) was investigated. Thirty day experiments were carried out using synthetic wastewaters with a Total Organic Carbon vs. nitrogen ratio (TOC/N) ranging from 0.1 to 1. Ammonium, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and TOC were daily monitored. Results showed that microaerobic conditions in the anodic chamber favored the development of nitritation reaction, due to oxygen transfer from the cathodic chamber through the membrane. Nitritation was found to depend on TOC/N ratio: at TOC/N equal to 0.1 an ammonium removal efficiency of up to 76% was observed. Once the oxygen supply to the cathodic chamber was stopped, denitritation occurred, favored by an increase of the TOC/N ratio: a nitrite removal of 80.3% was achieved at TOC/N equal to 0.75. The presence of nitrogen species strongly affected the potential of the electrochemical system: in the nitritation step, the Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) decreased from 180 mV to 21 mV with the decrease of the TOC/N ratio in the investigated range. Lower OCV values were observed in the denitritation steps since the organic carbon acted as the energy source for the conversion of nitrite to nitrogen gas. A kinetic analysis was also performed. Monod and Blackman models described the ammonium and the organic carbon removal processes well during the nitritation step, respectively, while Blackman-Blackman fitted experimental results of the denitritation step better.
Health Resorts and Multi-Textured Perceptions of International Health Tourists
Authors: Majeed Salman , Lu Changbao , Majeed Mahwash , Shahid Muahmmad Naeem
Published: April 2018

Health and medical tourism is considered one of the fastest growing segments of the tourism industry. Recently, research on health resorts has been gaining academic attention in tandem with the positive contribution of the health and medical segments to the tourism industry. The purpose of this study is to better conceptualize how the behavioral intentions of health tourists are shaped in the emerging context of the health resort. This study illuminates the likely perceptions of prospective tourists about the attractions of health resorts, and endeavors to examine the response of health tourists using data from 359 international health tourists/travelers, comprising of Thai, Indian, and Chinese nationalities. The study also uses the partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique in order to analyze the responses of international tourists gathered at two international airports in China. The present study shows that tourists’ expectations and their behavioral intentions are generally associated indicators of perceived health resort attractions. Expectations play a significant mediating role, while culture impacts the overall phenomenon of proposed associations in a moderating way. Moreover, sustainable tourism attractions also play a significant role in shaping Thai travelers’ behavioral responses, while medical facilities and risk levels are considered significant in determining Indian and Chinese travelers’ behaviors. By developing theoretical and empirical grounds, this study offers implications for further research and development in health resorts and other niches of health tourism.
Fluid-Solid Boundary Handling Using Pairwise Interaction Model for Non-Newtonian Fluid
Authors: Wang Xiaokun , Ban Xiaojuan , He Runzi , Wu Di , Liu Xing , Xu Yuting
Published: April 2018

In order to simulate fluid-solid boundary interaction for non-Newtonian Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) fluids, we present a steady and realistic fluid-solid boundary handling method using symmetrical interaction forces. Firstly, we use the improved SPH method to model the non-Newtonian fluid. Secondly, the density of boundary particle is created into the calculation of fluid-solid interaction forces. Besides, we apply friction conditions to constrain the fluid particles at the boundary. Finally, we apply the predictive-corrective scheme to correct the density deviation and improve boundary computing efficiency. The experiment confirms the feasibility for the interaction between non-Newtonian fluid and solid objects with this method. At the same time, it reflects the viscous characteristics and ensures the physical properties of non-Newtonian fluid. In addition, compared to existing methods, this method is more stable and easier to implement.