bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconstruction of River Boundaries at Sub-Pixel Resolution: Estimation and Spatial Allocation of Water Fractions
Authors: Niroumand-Jadidi Milad , Vitti Alfonso
Published: November 2017

Boundary pixels of rivers are subject to a spectral mixture that limits the accuracy of river areas extraction using conventional hard classifiers. To address this problem, unmixing and super-resolution mapping (SRM) are conducted in two steps, respectively, for estimation and then spatial allocation of water fractions within the mixed pixels. Optimal band analysis for the normalized difference water index (OBA-NDWI) is proposed for identifying the pair of bands for which the NDWI values yield the highest correlation with water fractions. The OBA-NDWI then incorporates the optimal NDWI as predictor of water fractions through a regression model. Water fractions obtained from the OBA-NDWI method are benchmarked against the results of simplex projection unmixing (SPU) algorithm. The pixel swapping (PS) algorithm and interpolation-based algorithms are also applied on water fractions for SRM. In addition, a simple modified binary PS (MBPS) algorithm is proposed to reduce the computational time of the original PS method. Water fractions obtained from the proposed OBA-NDWI method are demonstrated to be in good agreement with those of SPU algorithm (R2 = 0.9, RMSE = 7% for eight-band WorldView-3 (WV-3) image and R2 = 0.87, RMSE = 9% for GeoEye image). The spectral bands of WV-3 provide a wealth of choices through the proposed OBA-NDWI to estimate water fractions. The interpolation-based and MBPS methods lead to sub-pixel maps comparable with those obtained using the PS algorithm, while they are computationally more effective. SRM algorithms improve user/producer accuracies of river areas by about 10% with respect to conventional hard classification.
Characterization of a Sea Buckthorn Extract and Its Effect on Free and Encapsulated Lactobacillus casei
Authors: Pop Oana , Dulf Francisc , Cuibus Lucian , Castro-Giráldez Marta , Fito Pedro , Vodnar Dan , Coman Cristina , Socaciu Carmen , Suharoschi Ramona
Published: November 2017

Probiotics are bacteria that can provide health benefits to consumers and are suitable to be added to a variety of foods. In this research, viability of immobilized Lactobacillus casei in alginate with or without sea buckthorn lipid extract were studied during heat treatment and with an in vitro gastrointestinal model. The characterization of the lipid extract was also done using the UV-Vis spectrometry (UV-Vis), high-performance liquid chromatography photodiode array detection method (HPLC-PDA), gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GS-MS) and Cryo scanning electron microscopy (Cryo-SEM). During heat treatment, the entrapped probiotic cells proved high viability (>6 CFU log/g), even at temperatures above 50 °C. The rich in monounsaturated fatty acids sea buckthorn fraction improved the in vitro digestion passage regarding the probiotic viability. The survival of the probiotic cells was 15% higher after 2 h in the acidic medium of the simulated gastric fluid in the sample where L. casei was encapsulated with the sea buckthorn extract compared with the samples where no extract was added. Thus, this approach may be effective for the future development of probiotic-supplemented foods as foods with health welfare for the consumers.
Models in the Research Process of Psoriasis
Authors: Bocheńska Katarzyna , Smolińska Elwira , Moskot Marta , Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka Joanna , Gabig-Cimińska Magdalena
Published: November 2017

Psoriasis is an ancient, universal chronic skin disease with a significant geographical variability, with the lowest incidence rate at the equator, increasing towards the poles. Insights into the mechanisms responsible for psoriasis have generated an increasing number of druggable targets and molecular drugs. The development of relevant in vitro and in vivo models of psoriasis is now a priority and an important step towards its cure. In this review, we summarize the current cellular and animal systems suited to the study of psoriasis. We discuss the strengths and limitations of the various models and the lessons learned. We conclude that, so far, there is no one model that can meet all of the research needs. Therefore, the choice model system will depend on the questions being addressed.
Ascorbic Acid Attenuates Senescence of Human Osteoarthritic Osteoblasts
Authors: Burger Maximilian , Steinitz Amir , Geurts Jeroen , Pippenger Benjamin , Schaefer Dirk , Martin Ivan , Barbero Andrea , Pelttari Karoliina
Published: November 2017

The accumulation of senescent cells is implicated in the pathology of several age-related diseases. While the clearance of senescent cells has been suggested as a therapeutic target for patients with osteoarthritis (OA), cellular senescence of bone-resident osteoblasts (OB) remains poorly explored. Since oxidative stress is a well-known inducer of cellular senescence, we here investigated the effect of antioxidant supplementation on the isolation efficiency, expansion, differentiation potential, and transcriptomic profile of OB from osteoarthritic subchondral bone. Bone chips were harvested from sclerotic and non-sclerotic regions of the subchondral bone of human OA joints. The application of 0.1 mM ascorbic acid-2-phosphate (AA) significantly increased the number of outgrowing cells and their proliferation capacity. This enhanced proliferative capacity showed a negative correlation with the amount of senescent cells and was accompanied by decreased expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cultured OB. Expanded cells continued to express differentiated OB markers independently of AA supplementation and demonstrated no changes in their capacity to osteogenically differentiate. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that apoptotic, cell cycle–proliferation, and catabolic pathways were the main pathways affected in the presence of AA during OB expansion. Supplementation with AA can thus help to expand subchondral bone OB in vitro while maintaining their special cellular characteristics. The clearance of such senescent OB could be envisioned as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of OA.
Report of the International Society for Zinc Biology 5th Meeting, in Collaboration with Zinc-Net (COST Action TD1304)—UCLan Campus, Pyla, Cyprus
Authors: Lowe Nicola , Moran Victoria
Published: November 2017

From 18 to 22 June 2017, the fifth biennial meeting of the International Society for Zinc Biology was held in conjunction with the final dissemination meeting of the Network for the Biology of Zinc (Zinc-Net) at the University of Central Lancashire, Cyprus campus. The meeting attracted over 160 participants, had 17 scientific symposia, 4 plenary speakers and 2 poster discussion sessions. In this report, we give an overview of the key themes of the meeting and some of the highlights from the scientific programme.
Molecular Mechanisms of GPCR Signaling: A Structural Perspective
Authors: Gurevich Vsevolod , Gurevich Eugenia
Published: November 2017

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are cell surface receptors that respond to a wide variety of stimuli, from light, odorants, hormones, and neurotransmitters to proteins and extracellular calcium. GPCRs represent the largest family of signaling proteins targeted by many clinically used drugs. Recent studies shed light on the conformational changes that accompany GPCR activation and the structural state of the receptor necessary for the interactions with the three classes of proteins that preferentially bind active GPCRs, G proteins, G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs), and arrestins. Importantly, structural and biophysical studies also revealed activation-related conformational changes in these three types of signal transducers. Here, we summarize what is already known and point out questions that still need to be answered. Clear understanding of the structural basis of signaling by GPCRs and their interaction partners would pave the way to designing signaling-biased proteins with scientific and therapeutic potential.
Biotechnological Applications of Microbial (Per)chlorate Reduction
Authors: Wang Ouwei , Coates John
Published: November 2017

While the microbial degradation of a chloroxyanion-based herbicide was first observed nearly ninety years ago, only recently have researchers elucidated the underlying mechanisms of perchlorate and chlorate [collectively, (per)chlorate] respiration. Although the obvious application of these metabolisms lies in the bioremediation and attenuation of (per)chlorate in contaminated environments, a diversity of alternative and innovative biotechnological applications has been proposed based on the unique metabolic abilities of dissimilatory (per)chlorate-reducing bacteria (DPRB). This is fueled in part by the unique ability of these organisms to generate molecular oxygen as a transient intermediate of the central pathway of (per)chlorate respiration. This ability, along with other novel aspects of the metabolism, have resulted in a wide and disparate range of potential biotechnological applications being proposed, including enzymatic perchlorate detection; gas gangrene therapy; enhanced xenobiotic bioremediation; oil reservoir bio-souring control; chemostat hygiene control; aeration enhancement in industrial bioreactors; and, biogenic oxygen production for planetary exploration. While previous reviews focus on the fundamental science of microbial (per)chlorate reduction (for example see Youngblut et al., 2016), here, we provide an overview of the emerging biotechnological applications of (per)chlorate respiration and the underlying organisms and enzymes to environmental and biotechnological industries.
Species-Specific Inactivation of Triosephosphate Isomerase from Trypanosoma brucei: Kinetic and Molecular Dynamics Studies
Authors: Vázquez-Raygoza Alejandra , Cano-González Lucia , Velázquez-Martínez Israel , Trejo-Soto Pedro , Castillo Rafael , Hernández-Campos Alicia , Hernández-Luis Francisco , Oria-Hernández Jesús , Castillo-Villanueva Adriana , Avitia-Domínguez Claudia , Sierra-Campos Erick , Valdez-Solana Mónica , Téllez-Valencia Alfredo
Published: November 2017

Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), a disease that provokes 2184 new cases a year in Sub-Saharan Africa, is caused by Trypanosoma brucei. Current treatments are limited, highly toxic, and parasite strains resistant to them are emerging. Therefore, there is an urgency to find new drugs against HAT. In this context, T. brucei depends on glycolysis as the unique source for ATP supply; therefore, the enzyme triosephosphate isomerase (TIM) is an attractive target for drug design. In the present work, three new benzimidazole derivatives were found as TbTIM inactivators (compounds 1, 2 and 3) with an I50 value of 84, 82 and 73 µM, respectively. Kinetic analyses indicated that the three molecules were selective when tested against human TIM (HsTIM) activity. Additionally, to study their binding mode in TbTIM, we performed a 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation of TbTIM-inactivator complexes. Simulations showed that the binding of compounds disturbs the structure of the protein, affecting the conformations of important domains such as loop 6 and loop 8. In addition, the physicochemical and drug-like parameters showed by the three compounds suggest a good oral absorption. In conclusion, these molecules will serve as a guide to design more potent inactivators that could be used to obtain new drugs against HAT.
PTP1B Inhibitors from the Entomogenous Fungi Isaria fumosorosea
Authors: Zhang Jun , Meng Lin-Lin , Wei Jing-Jing , Fan Peng , Liu Sha-Sha , Yuan Wei-Yu , Zhao You-Xing , Luo Du-Qiang
Published: November 2017

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is implicated as a negative regulator of insulin receptor (IR) signaling and a potential drug target for the treatment of type II diabetes and other associated metabolic syndromes. Thus, small molecule inhibitors of PTP1B can be considered as an attractive approach for the design of new therapeutic agents of type II diabetes and cancer diseases. In a continuing search for new PTP1B inhibitors, a new tetramic acid possessing a rare pyrrolidinedione skeleton named fumosorinone A (1), together with five known ones 2–6 were isolated from the entomogenous fungus Isaria fumosorosea. The structures of 2–6 were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Fumosorinone A (1) and beauvericin (6) showed significant PTP1B inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 3.24 μM and 0.59 μM.
Dynamic Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Graphene Oxide Nanosheets Reinforced Cement Composites
Authors: Long Wu-Jian , Wei Jing-Jie , Ma Hongyan , Xing Feng
Published: November 2017

This paper presents an experimental investigation on the effect of uniformly dispersed graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets on dynamic mechanical properties of cement based composites prepared with recycled fine aggregate (RFA). Three different amounts of GO, 0.05%, 0.10%, and 0.20% in mass of cement, were used in the experiments. The visual inspections of GO nanosheets were also carried out after ultrasonication by transmission electron microscope (TEM) atomic force microscope (AFM), and Raman to characterize the dispersion effect of graphite oxide. Dynamic mechanical analyzer test showed that the maximum increased amount of loss factor and storage modulus, energy absorption was 125%, 53%, and 200% when compared to the control sample, respectively. The flexural and compressive strengths of GO-mortar increased up to 22% to 41.3% and 16.2% to 16.4% with 0.20 wt % GO at 14 and 28 days, respectively. However the workability decreased by 7.5% to 18.8% with 0.05% and 0.2% GO addition. Microstructural analysis with environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM)/backscattered mode (BSEM) showed that the GO-cement composites had a much denser structure and better crystallized hydration products, meanwhile mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) testing and image analysis demonstrated that the incorporation of GO in the composites can help in refining capillary pore structure and reducing the air voids content.
Carbon Nanofiber Cement Sensors to Detect Strain and Damage of Concrete Specimens Under Compression
Authors: Galao Oscar , Baeza F. , Zornoza Emilio , Garcés Pedro
Published: November 2017

Cement composites with nano-additions have been vastly studied for their functional applications, such as strain and damage sensing. The capacity of a carbon nanofiber (CNF) cement paste has already been tested. However, this study is focused on the use of CNF cement composites as sensors in regular concrete samples. Different measuring techniques and humidity conditions of CNF samples were tested to optimize the strain and damage sensing of this material. In the strain sensing tests (for compressive stresses up to 10 MPa), the response depends on the maximum stress applied. The material was more sensitive at higher loads. Furthermore, the actual load time history did not influence the electrical response, and similar curves were obtained for different test configurations. On the other hand, damage sensing tests proved the capability of CNF cement composites to measure the strain level of concrete samples, even for loads close to the material’s strength. Some problems were detected in the strain transmission between sensor and concrete specimens, which will require specific calibration of each sensor one attached to the structure.
The Effect of Red Palm Oil on Vitamin A Deficiency: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Dong Shunan , Xia Hui , Wang Feng , Sun Guiju
Published: November 2017

Red palm oil (RPO) has been investigated for preventing or alleviating vitamin A deficiency (VAD). Previous data has offered inconclusive and inconsistent results about the effects of RPO in patients with VAD. Our objective was to undertake a meta-analysis to assess the effects of RPO in preventing VAD in the population. After conducting a comprehensive literature search, nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Overall, when trial results were pooled, the results indicated that RPO reduced the risk of VAD (relative risk (RR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) = 0.55 (0.37, 0.82), p = 0.003), increasedserum retinol levels in both children (p < 0.00001) and adults (p = 0.002), and increased β-carotene levels (p = 0.01). However, RPO supplementation did not have a significant overall effect on serum α-carotene levels (p = 0.06), body weight (p = 0.45), and haemoglobin levels (p = 0.72). The results also showed that low level of PRO intake (≤8 g RPO) could increase serum retinol concentrations whereas PRO intake above 8 g did not lead to further increase of serum retinol concentrations. This meta-analysis demonstrated that RPO might be effective for preventing or alleviating VAD.
Neonatal Nutrition Predicts Energy Balance in Young Adults Born Preterm at Very Low Birth Weight
Authors: Matinolli Hanna-Maria , Hovi Petteri , Levälahti Esko , Kaseva Nina , Silveira Patricia , Hemiö Katri , Järvenpää Anna-Liisa , Eriksson Johan , Andersson Sture , Lindström Jaana , Männistö Satu , Kajantie Eero
Published: November 2017

Epidemiological studies and animal models suggest that early postnatal nutrition and growth can influence adult health. However, few human studies have objective recordings of early nutrient intake. We studied whether nutrient intake and growth during the first 9 weeks after preterm birth with very low birth weight (VLBW, <1500 g) predict total energy intake, resting energy expenditure (REE), physical activity and food preferences in young adulthood. We collected daily nutritional intakes and weights during the initial hospital stay from hospital records for 127 unimpaired VLBW participants. At an average age 22.5 years, they completed a three-day food record and a physical activity questionnaire and underwent measurements of body composition (dual X-ray absorptiometry; n = 115 with adequate data) and REE (n = 92 with adequate data). We used linear regression and path analysis to investigate associations between neonatal nutrient intake and adult outcomes. Higher energy, protein and fat intakes during the first three weeks of life predicted lower relative (=per unit lean body mass) energy intake and relative REE in adulthood, independent of other pre- and neonatal factors. In path analysis, total effects of early nutrition and growth on relative energy intake were mostly explained by direct effects of early life nutrition. A path mediated by early growth reached statistical significance only for protein intake. There were no associations of neonatal intakes with physical activity or food preferences in adulthood. As a conclusion, higher intake of energy and nutrients during first three weeks of life of VLBW infants predicts energy balance after 20 years. This association is partly mediated through postnatal growth.
Correction: Watson, N.; et al. Effects of Low-Fat Diets Differing in Protein and Carbohydrate Content on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors during Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance in Obese Adults with Type 2 Diabetes. Nutrients 2016, 8, 289
Authors: Watson Nerylee , Dyer Kathryn , Buckley Jonathan , Brinkworth Grant , Coates Alison , Parfitt Gaynor , Howe Peter , Noakes Manny , Murphy Karen
Published: November 2017

The authors request the following corrections to their paper [...]
How do PrPSc Prions Spread between Host Species, and within Hosts?
Authors: Mabbott Neil
Published: November 2017

Prion diseases are sub-acute neurodegenerative diseases that affect humans and some domestic and free-ranging animals. Infectious prion agents are considered to comprise solely of abnormally folded isoforms of the cellular prion protein known as PrPSc. Pathology during prion disease is restricted to the central nervous system where it causes extensive neurodegeneration and ultimately leads to the death of the host. The first half of this review provides a thorough account of our understanding of the various ways in which PrPSc prions may spread between individuals within a population, both horizontally and vertically. Many natural prion diseases are acquired peripherally, such as by oral exposure, lesions to skin or mucous membranes, and possibly also via the nasal cavity. Following peripheral exposure, some prions accumulate to high levels within the secondary lymphoid organs as they make their journey from the site of infection to the brain, a process termed neuroinvasion. The replication of PrPSc prions within secondary lymphoid organs is important for their efficient spread to the brain. The second half of this review describes the key tissues, cells and molecules which are involved in the propagation of PrPSc prions from peripheral sites of exposure (such as the lumen of the intestine) to the brain. This section also considers how additional factors such as inflammation and aging might influence prion disease susceptibility.
New Scheme for Validating Remote-Sensing Land Surface Temperature Products with Station Observations
Authors: Yu Wenping , Ma Mingguo , Li Zhaoliang , Tan Junlei , Wu Adan
Published: November 2017

Continuous land-surface temperature (LST) observations from ground-based stations are an important reference dataset for validating remote-sensing LST products. However, a lack of evaluations of the representativeness of station observations limits the reliability of validation results. In this study, a new practical validation scheme is presented for validating remote-sensing LST products that includes a key step: assessing the spatial representativeness of ground-based LST measurements. Three indicators, namely, the dominant land-cover type (DLCT), relative bias (RB), and average structure scale (ASS), are established to quantify the representative levels of station observations based on the land-cover type (LCT) and LST reference maps with high spatial resolution. We validated MODIS LSTs using station observations from the Heihe River Basin (HRB) in China. The spatial representative evaluation steps show that the representativeness of observations greatly differs among stations and varies with different vegetation growth and other factors. Large differences in the validation results occur when using different representative level observations, which indicates a large potential for large error during the traditional T-based validation scheme. Comparisons show that the new validation scheme greatly improves the reliability of LST product validation through high-level representative observations.
Geomorphological Dating of Pleistocene Conglomerates in Central Slovenia Based on Spatial Analyses of Dolines Using LiDAR and Ground Penetrating Radar
Authors: Čeru Teja , Šegina Ela , Gosar Andrej
Published: November 2017

On Kranjsko polje in central Slovenia, carbonate conglomerates have been dated to several Pleistocene glacial phases by relative dating based on the morphostratigrafic mapping and borehole data, and by paleomagnetic and 10Be analyses. To define how the age of conglomerates determines the geomorphological characteristics of karst surface features, morphometrical and distributive spatial analyses of dolines were performed on three test sites including old, middle, and young Pleistocene conglomerates. As dolines on conglomerates are covered by a thick soil cover and show a strong human influence, the ground penetrating radar (GPR) method was first applied to select dolines appropriate for further morphometrical and distributive analyses. A considerable modification of natural morphology was revealed for cultivated dolines, excluding this type of depression from spatial analyses. Input parameters for spatial analyses (doline rim and deepest point) were manually extracted from the 1 × 1 m grid digital elevation model (DEM) originating from the high-resolution LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data. Basic geomorphological characteristics, namely circularity index, planar size, depth, and density index of dolines were calculated for each relative age of conglomerates, and common characteristics were determined from these data to establish a general surface typology for a particular conglomerate. The obtained surface typologies were spatially extrapolated to the wider conglomerate area in central Slovenia to test the existent geological dating. Spatial analyses generally confirmed previous dating, while in four areas the geomorphological characteristics of dolines did not correspond to the existing dating and require further revision and modification. Doline populations exhibit specific and common morphometrical and distributive characteristics on conglomerates of a particular age and can be a reliable and fast indicator for their dating.
Portable Electronic Nose Based on Electrochemical Sensors for Food Quality Assessment
Authors: Wojnowski Wojciech , Majchrzak Tomasz , Dymerski Tomasz , Gębicki Jacek , Namieśnik Jacek
Published: November 2017

The steady increase in global consumption puts a strain on agriculture and might lead to a decrease in food quality. Currently used techniques of food analysis are often labour-intensive and time-consuming and require extensive sample preparation. For that reason, there is a demand for novel methods that could be used for rapid food quality assessment. A technique based on the use of an array of chemical sensors for holistic analysis of the sample’s headspace is called electronic olfaction. In this article, a prototype of a portable, modular electronic nose intended for food analysis is described. Using the SVM method, it was possible to classify samples of poultry meat based on shelf-life with 100% accuracy, and also samples of rapeseed oil based on the degree of thermal degradation with 100% accuracy. The prototype was also used to detect adulterations of extra virgin olive oil with rapeseed oil with 82% overall accuracy. Due to the modular design, the prototype offers the advantages of solutions targeted for analysis of specific food products, at the same time retaining the flexibility of application. Furthermore, its portability allows the device to be used at different stages of the production and distribution process.
Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) for Chemical Sensing Applications of Recognition Layers
Authors: Mujahid Adnan , Dickert Franz
Published: November 2017

Surface acoustic wave (SAW) resonators represent some of the most prominent acoustic devices for chemical sensing applications. As their frequency ranges from several hundred MHz to GHz, therefore they can record remarkably diminutive frequency shifts resulting from exceptionally small mass loadings. Their miniaturized design, high thermal stability and possibility of wireless integration make these devices highly competitive. Owing to these special characteristics, they are widely accepted as smart transducers that can be combined with a variety of recognition layers based on host-guest interactions, metal oxide coatings, carbon nanotubes, graphene sheets, functional polymers and biological receptors. As a result of this, there is a broad spectrum of SAW sensors, i.e., having sensing applications ranging from small gas molecules to large bio-analytes or even whole cell structures. This review shall cover from the fundamentals to modern design developments in SAW devices with respect to interfacial receptor coatings for exemplary sensor applications. The related problems and their possible solutions shall also be covered, with a focus on emerging trends and future opportunities for making SAW as established sensing technology.
A Functionalized Tetrakis(4-Nitrophenyl)Porphyrin Film Optical Waveguide Sensor for Detection of H2S and Ethanediamine Gases
Authors: Tuerdi Gulimire , Kari Nuerguli , Yan Yin , Nizamidin Patima , Yimit Abliz
Published: November 2017

The detection of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and ethanediamine, toxic gases that are emitted from industrial processes, is important for health and safety. An optical sensor, based on the absorption spectrum of tetrakis(4-nitrophenyl)porphyrin (TNPP) immobilized in a Nafion membrane (Nf) and deposited onto an optical waveguide glass slide, has been developed for the detection of these gases. Responses to analytes were compared for sensors modified with TNPP and Nf-TNPP composites. Among them, Nf-TNPP exhibited significant responses to H2S and ethanediamine. The analytical performance characteristics of the Nf-TNPP-modified sensor were investigated and the response mechanism is discussed in detail. The sensor exhibited excellent reproducibilities, reversibilities, and selectivities, with detection limits for H2S and ethanediamine of 1 and 10 ppb, respectively, and it is a promising candidate for use in industrial sensing applications.
Direction-Of-Arrival Estimation and Tracking Based on a Sequential Implementation of C-SPICE with an Off-Grid Model
Authors: Cai Shu , Shi Xiaoye , Zhu Hongbo
Published: November 2017

This paper focuses on the problem of estimating and tracking time-varying direction-of-arrivals (DoAs) with an antenna array. A sequential DoA estimation method is proposed by extending the capon and sparse iterative covariance-based estimation (C-SPICE) method, which is an iterative off-grid method for estimating constant DoAs. Then, a moving average initialization technique is introduced such that the spatial spectrum information estimated in this snapshot can be utilized in the next one. In uniform linear arrays (ULAs), we replace the uniform grid in direction domain with that in a “frequency” domain, to improve estimation accuracy without additional complexity in practical applications. The validity and efficiency of the proposed methods are demonstrated through numerical experiments.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensors on Raman and Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Jiangcai , Lin Weihua , Cao En , Xu Xuefeng , Liang Wenjie , Zhang Xiaofang
Published: November 2017

The performance of chemical reactions has been enhanced immensely with surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based sensors. In this review, the principle and application of SPR sensors are introduced and summarized thoroughly. We introduce the mechanism of the SPR sensors and present a thorough summary about the optical design, including the substrate and excitation modes of the surface plasmons. Additionally, the applications based on SPR sensors are described by the Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy in plasmon-driven surface catalytic reactions and the measurement of refractive index sensing, especially.
Optimization of a Focusable and Rotatable Shear-Wave Periodic Permanent Magnet Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducers for Plates Inspection
Authors: Song Xiaochun , Qiu Gongzhe
Published: November 2017

Due to the symmetry of conventional periodic-permanent-magnet electromagnetic acoustic transducers (PPM EMATs), two shear (SH) waves can be generated and propagated simultaneously in opposite directions, which makes the signal recognition and interpretation complicatedly. Thus, this work presents a new SH wave PPM EMAT design, rotating the parallel line sources to realize the wave beam focusing in a single-direction. The theoretical model of distributed line sources was deduced firstly, and the effects of some parameters, such as the inner coil width, adjacent line sources spacing and the angle between parallel line sources, on SH wave focusing and directivity were studied mainly with the help of 3D FEM. Employing the proposed PPM EMATs, some experiments are carried out to verify the reliability of FEM simulation. The results indicate that rotating the parallel line sources can strength the wave on the closing side of line sources, decreasing the inner coil width and the adjacent line sources spacing can improve the amplitude and directivity of signals excited by transducers. Compared with traditional PPM EMATs, both the capacity of unidirectional excitation and directivity of the proposed PPM EMATs are improved significantly.
Synergetic Development Assessment of Urban River System Landscapes
Authors: Qiao Jingya , Wang Mo , Zhang Dongqing , Ding Chenyang , Wang Jingjing , Xu Dawei
Published: November 2017

This paper presents Synergetic Development Assessment (SDA) as a methodology to evaluate the environmental, economic, and social performance of an urban river system landscape from the perspective of sustainability. SDA is based on synergetics and its “order parameters” theory, proposed as a science to study the self-organization of complex systems. A case study of river system landscapes in China was carried out by, first, simplifying the composite system into three subsystems: environmental, economic, and social; then, going on to construct a hierarchical structure to explore the order parameters as the evaluation index. The Analytic Hierarchy Process was used to get the weight of the evaluation index to complete the assessment index system. At the same time, a Sequential Synergy Degree Model was built to accomplish the SDA. We find that from 2005 to 2015, the order degree of the environmental subsystem developed slowly, with fluctuations, and that river pattern is the key factor. Meanwhile, the order degree of the economic subsystem fluctuated widely, which significantly depended on the changing value of water resources, and the order degree of social subsystem improved continuously, with social culture lagging far behind. As a whole, the synergy degree of the composite system developed orderly at a corresponding low level, which was in low synergy from 2005 to 2009 and then in general synergy up to 2015.
Social and Solidarity Economy, Sustainable Development Goals, and Community Development: The Mission of Adult Education & Training
Authors: Quiroz-Niño Catalina , Murga-Menoyo María
Published: November 2017

A utopia of sustainable development is becoming established on the international stage. To get there, varied and complementary strategies must come into play—among them education. This trend is turning to the “Social and Solidarity Economy” (SSE), especially since the approval by the United Nations (UN) of the 2030 Agenda; the fulfilment of which demands adult education strategies and programs in line with the principles and values of sustainability. This article offers a response to that demand. It aims to carry out a reflective analysis that reveals the similarities between the principles and values of the SSE and those guiding the UN’s 2030 Agenda, with its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Based on the results of this analysis, we will argue that training in the competencies for sustainability, essential in achieving the SDGs, is among the main functions of education within the SSE framework. Further, in order to make educational programs more sustainable, such training must be included in their operating objectives. The work uses a hermeneutic methodology based on the existing literature and gives particular attention to UNESCO’s directives on training in key competencies for sustainability. The significant contribution the results make is to show: (a) the emphases of each approach and their similarities; (b) how the two are complementary; and (c) the potential, and need, for creating synergies based on their respective strengths. A further original contribution is a proposed basic guide for the design of training activities geared towards gaining the normative competency that UNESCO has identified as key to sustainability. This innovative proposal will be useful for improving the quality of adult training programs, thereby contributing to the achievement of the SDGs in communities.
The Opportunity Cost of Labor for Valuing Mangrove Restoration in Mahakam Delta, Indonesia
Authors: Susilo Heru , Takahashi Yoshifumi , Yabe Mitsuyasu
Published: November 2017

Worldwide, damage to mangroves is alarming. Restoration is required to recover mangrove ecosystems, and communities’ involvement is a primary factor to reduce the threat to mangroves. Their participation might be interpreted as the appropriate decision concerning conservation and utilization of mangroves. Using a contingent valuation approach, this study assesses mangroves’ values to local communities through their willingness to contribute labor to obtain monetary value. Results showed that the opportunity cost of time was valued at IDR 398.76 thousand (US$29.99) a month or IDR 4.79 million (US$359.90) per year. A total annual benefit of mangrove restoration using the wage rate of time (WRT) is IDR 143 billion (US$10.77 million) per year. Accessing such information is crucial to making the appropriate decisions about conservation of mangroves within the context of developing countries that have poor coastal communities and low incomes. Tobit regression determined that five variables affect willingness to provide labor time and WRT significantly for mangrove restoration. These findings can support decision-makers with the relevant information for assessing a mangrove restoration project.
One-pot three-component route for the synthesis of S-trifluoromethyl dithiocarbamates using Togni’s reagent
Authors: Halimehjani Azim Ziyaei , Dračínský Martin , Beier Petr
Published: November 2017

A one-pot three-component route for the synthesis of S-trifluoromethyl dithiocarbamates by the reaction of secondary amines, carbon disulfide and Togni’s reagent is described. The reactions proceed in moderate to good yields. A similar reaction using a primary aliphatic amine afforded the corresponding isothiocyanate in high yield. A variable temperature NMR study revealed a rotational barrier of 14.6, 18.8, and 15.9 kcal/mol for the C–N bond in the dithiocarbamate moiety of piperidine, pyrrolidine, and diethylamine adducts, respectively. In addition, the calculated barriers of rotation are in reasonable agreement with the experiments.
Inflammation Investigated as a Source of Pharmacokinetic Variability of Atazanavir in AIDS Clinical Trials Group Protocol A5224s
Authors: Venuto Charles S , Lim Jihoon , Messing Susan , Hunt Peter W , McComsey Grace A , Morse Gene D
Published: November 2017

Background

Inflammation is associated with the down-regulation of drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters. Thus, we investigated the chronic inflammatory state associated with HIV infection as a source of pharmacokinetic variability of atazanavir. We also explored the association of total bilirubin concentrations with markers of inflammation and endothelial activation.

Methods

Apparent oral clearance (CL/F) of atazanavir was estimated from plasma samples collected from participants in AIDS Clinical Trials Group Study A5202. Several inflammatory and endothelial activation biomarkers were measured at baseline and weeks 24 and 96 as part of metabolic substudy A5224s: high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin-6, tumour necrosis factor-α and its soluble receptors, soluble vascular cellular and intracellular adhesion molecules and total bilirubin. Statistical analysis was performed by a matrix of correlation coefficients between atazanavir CL/F and biomarker concentrations measured at week 24. The correlation between atazanavir clearance and percentage change in bilirubin from baseline to weeks 24 and 96, and between biomarkers and bilirubin concentrations at each week were also evaluated.

Results

Among 107 participants, there were no significant correlations observed between atazanavir CL/F and inflammatory and endothelial activation bio-markers measured at week 24 ( P≥0.24). As expected, bilirubin increased with increasing exposure to atazanavir (rho=-0.25, P=0.01). Bilirubin concentrations were inversely correlated ( P<0.01) with each of the biomarkers except hsCRP.

Conclusions

Atazanavir CL/F did not correlate with the inflammatory biomarkers changes. Inflammatory-mediated inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A may have been attenuated due to atazanavir-associated increases of bilirubin, which has known anti-inflammatory properties.
Article Commentary: Frailty: Is Thy Name…..Universal? Evolving Challenges of Managing Effectively Treated Older People Living with HIV
Authors: Falutz Julian
Published: November 2017

The increased survival of treated people living with HIV (PLWH) represents a tremendous accomplishment. However, this has not been accompanied by uniform improvements in quality of life. Many PLWH prematurely develop age-related complications and traditional geriatric syndromes, including frailty. This is a potentially reversible state of vulnerability to adverse outcomes. Its operationalization remains challenging. The most commonly used tools, the frailty phenotype and the frailty index, have their advantages and limitations, but predict similar poor outcomes. Yeoh et al. applied both metrics, and a simpler construct, the Edmonton Frail Scale, to a population of Australian PLWH. Although the prevalence of frailty was generally similar to that in other settings, distinct differences occurred between the tools. This paper adds to the literature on this serious condition in this already vulnerable population. Further research is needed before consensus is reached on how to reliably and simply diagnose frailty in PLWH.
Insect biodiversity of the Algodones Dunes of California
Authors: Kimsey Lynn , Zavortink Thomas , Kimsey Robert , Heydon Steven
Published: November 2017

Over a nine year period beginning in 2007 we surveyed the insects of the Algodones Dunes, Imperial Count, California, as part of a study undertaken for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. In a series of 22 collecting trips ranging in duration from 2 to 8 days we thus far have accumulated records of 1,840 species, 21 orders and 244 families from the dunes. Hymenoptera constituted the most diverse order, comprising about 45% of all the species recovered. Insect diversity and abundance peaked during the hottest part of the year between the months of May and September. Life history traits of the insects sampled included herbivores (29.6%), parasitoids (28.7%), predators (18.1%), pollen/nectar feeders (10.9%), detritivores (6.2%) and scavengers (2.4%). Seventy-nine or 4% of the insect species collected in the dunes have been solely recorded from there, and 3% of the species almost certainly derive from adjacent aquatic habitats or agricultural ecosystems, as their life histories could not be completed in Algodones Dunes habitat. The insect fauna of the Algodones Dunes is unexpectedly rich and diverse.
L’état et la richesse
Authors: Herlin-Giret Camille
Published: November 2017

Cet article interroge le travail politique de définition de l’impôt de solidarité sur la fortune (ISF) en se penchant sur les débats qui animent l’Assemblée dans la seconde moitié des années 1970, en suivant des techniques discrètes de gouvernement et en examinant la répartition de la charge fiscale. À l’appui de matériaux variés – débats parlementaires, entretiens et archives notamment –, l’article montre que les discussions qui précèdent l’inscription de l’impôt sur la fortune dans la loi contribuent à faire émerger une distinction entre les « grandes fortunes », attachées à des « particuliers » et qu’il serait légitime de taxer et le « capital », associé à l’entreprise et qu’il faudrait protéger de l’impôt. Cette séparation trouve des prolongements dans l’exclusion progressive des biens professionnels de l’assiette de l’impôt, laquelle n’est pas sans effet sur les montants versés par les redevables. Ce faisant, l’article fournit un éclairage alternatif à l’histoire très partisane des réformes de l’impôt de solidarité sur la fortune (ISF).
L’impact du profil psychologique du dirigeant sur la croissance des PME au Cameroun
Authors: Boubakary Ben , Boukar Hamadou , Tsapi Victor
Published: November 2017

De nombreuses recherches empiriques se sont intéressées à l’étude des facteurs explicatifs de la croissance des PME liés aux caractéristiques du dirigeant, mais peu de ces travaux ont tenu compte de l’influence du profil psychologique du dirigeant sur la croissance des PME. Cette étude cherche à combler cette lacune en se focalisant uniquement sur les facteurs psychologiques dans le contexte camerounais. Nos résultats montrent que le désir d’indépendance, la confiance en soi et la stabilité émotionnelle du dirigeant exercent une influence positive et considérable sur la croissance de ce type d’entreprises.
Spécificités des pratiques RH socialement responsables au contexte des PME au Maroc : les enseignements d’une étude de cas
Authors: Cherkaoui Adil , Jallal Rachida
Published: November 2017

A l’ère de la COP 22 abritée par le Maroc, la problématique de l’engagement RSE constitue de plus en plus une thématique d’actualité à l’échelle nationale. En effet, la responsabilité sociale a toujours existé dans l’acte d’entreprendre. Toutefois, une évolution a fait de la RSE aujourd’hui un concept, une pratique voire une démarche autrement plus développée. Elle n’est nullement l’apanage des seules grandes entreprises. En effet, les PME seraient aussi concernées par ses enjeux. Néanmoins, la RSE ne peut se penser indépendamment du contexte dans lequel l’entreprise est ancrée. L’assise locale des PME amène le dirigeant à posséder une responsabilité sociale de proximité. Le présent papier essaie de montrer la spécificité des pratiques responsables dans les PME notamment dans leurs dimensions sociales et ce à travers une étude de cas à visée exploratoire et compréhensive. Les enseignements tirés d’une telle étude est que la compréhension de la RSE et son appropriation au niveau des PME est essentiellement intuitive. Elle est étroitement liée au système de valeurs du dirigeant. De même, l’ancrage territorial des PME amène le dirigeant à pratiquer une RSE de proximité puisqu’elle représente une réalité contextualisée.
Effet médiateur de la gestion de risque et du style de direction sur la relation Innovation – Qualité du service : étude des assurances et des banques en Tunisie
Authors: Hakim Guermazi Houda
Published: November 2017

La qualité de service présente un facteur de la performance des entreprises de service. Avec l’évolution de l’environnement, l’innovation est devenue une stratégie inévitable. Une gestion de risques et un style de direction adéquat s’imposent aux entreprises. L’objectif de cette recherche consiste à étudier le rôle médiateur de la gestion de risque et du style de direction dans la relation innovation – qualité du service dans le secteur de service lié aux assurances et aux banques en Tunisie. L’outil d’investigation utilisé est le questionnaire destiné pour les banques et les assurances en Tunisie. Pour l’analyse des données, la technique Partial Least Square (PLS) est utilisée. Les résultats de la recherche montrent que l’amélioration de la qualité du service des assurances et des banques étudiées dépend de l’effet de l’innovation médiatisé par celui de la gestion des risques et du style de direction.
Perception de la performance par leurs dirigeants : le cas des PME camerounaises
Authors: Sangué-Fotso Robert , Wamba Henri
Published: November 2017

S’il est vrai que la performance fait partie intégrante des objectifs à court et long termes des dirigeants de PME, sa perception ne fait pas l’unanimité dans le monde professionnel et académique. C’est dans cette optique que le présent article vise à apporter, au-delà des critères déjà présents dans la littérature, d’autres critères susceptibles de mieux afficher la perception de la performance par les dirigeants de PME évoluant en contexte camerounais où domine l’informel. A partir des entretiens réalisés auprès des dirigeants de PME, il ressort que, la conception de la performance dépend des objectifs poursuivis, de la finalité personnelle, de la satisfaction des parties prenantes, de l’importance accordée à la communauté et au personnel et de la cognition managériale. Ce résultat montre que la conception de la performance par les dirigeants passe par la recherche permanente de l’équilibre entre le profit financier, l’implication dans la société au travers des actes philanthropiques et la protection de l’environnement. Par ailleurs, ces résultats sont nécessaires pour apprécier la diversité des comportements des dirigeants de PME et de leurs choix managériaux. On note également l’importance relative accordée aux indicateurs financiers et la nécessité de valoriser les variables qualitatives qui traduisent finement les différentes actions de l’intention managériale des dirigeants de PME.