bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioengineering of Artificial Lymphoid Organs
Authors: Nosenko M. A. , Drutskaya M. S. , Moisenovich M. M. , Nedospasov S. A.
Published: June 2019

This review addresses the issue of bioengineering of artificial lymphoid organs.Progress in this field may help to better understand the nature of the structure-function relations that exist in immune organs. Artifical lymphoid organs may also be advantageous in the therapy or correction of immunodefficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. The structural organization, development, and function of lymphoid tissue are analyzed with a focus on the role of intercellular contacts and on the cytokine signaling pathways regulating these processes. We describe various polymeric materials, as scaffolds, for artificial tissue engineering. Finally, published studies in which artificial lymphoid organs were generated are reviewed and possible future directions in the field are discussed.
Modeling of the Binding of Peptide Blockers to Voltage-Gated Potassium Channels: Approaches and Evidence
Authors: Novoseletsky V. N. , Volyntseva A. D. , Shaitan K. V. , Kirpichnikov M. P. , Feofanov A. V.
Published: June 2019

Modeling of the structure of voltage-gated potassium (KV) channels bound to peptide blockers aims to identify the key amino acid residues dictating affinity and provide insights into the toxin-channel interface. Computational approaches open up possibilities for in silico rational design of selective blockers, new molecular tools to study the cellular distribution and functional roles of potassium channels. It is anticipated that optimized blockers will advance the development of drugs that reduce over activation of potassium channels and attenuate the associated malfunction. Starting with an overview of the recent advances in computational simulation strategies to predict the bound state orientations of peptide pore blockers relative to KV-channels, we go on to review algorithms for the analysis of intermolecular interactions, and then take a look at the results of their application.
Role of Transcriptional Read-Through in PRE Activity in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Elizar’ev P. V. , Lomaev D. V. , Chetverina D. A. , Georgiev P. G. , Erokhin M. M.
Published: June 2019

Maintenance of the individual patterns of gene expression in different cell types is required for the differentiation and development of multicellular organisms. Expression of many genes is controlled by Polycomb (PcG) and Trithorax (TrxG) group proteins that act through association with chromatin. PcG/TrxG are assembled on the DNA sequences termed PREs (Polycomb Response Elements), the activity of which can be modulated and switched from repression to activation. In this study, we analyzed the influence of transcriptional read-through on PRE activity switch mediated by the yeast activator GAL4. We show that a transcription terminator inserted between the promoter and PRE doesnt prevent switching of PRE activity from repression to activation. We demonstrate that, independently of PRE orientation, high levels of transcription fail to dislodge PcG/TrxG proteins from PRE in the absence of a terminator. Thus, transcription is not the main factor required for PRE activity switch.
借助网络平台处理中职学生假期作业的实践研究—以某卫生学校妇产科护理学为例
Authors: 李 飞颖
Published: June 2019

长期以来，中职学生的假期管理形势不容乐观，多数学校以笔头作业和社会实践为主要形式，但教师很难掌握学生在假期生活中复习知识的程度，并很难及时回答学生在学习过程中遇到的问题。除此之外，学生完成作业的积极性不高，效率低。利用校园网络平台系统处理学生假期作业，不仅可以克服原有作业形式中存在的弊端，更可以发挥假期作业的教育教学功效。
高职“四学段循序渐进”的学做一体化人才培养方案建设
Authors: 何 琪 , 徐 鹏 , 林 型平
Published: June 2019

要高质量的完成高职院校专业人才培养的目标，确定一个合适的人才培养模式比较重要，本文结合专业的实际情况，制定了一种“四学段循序渐进”的人才培养模式，阐述了这种人才培养模式的基本内容，在实践中体现的成效，能验证符合高职学生的专业技能学习和提升。
理工科专业大学生创业教育面临的问题及优化对策研究
Authors: 戴 青松
Published: June 2019

随着当今高校扩招政策的深入实施,社会毕业生就业竞争力日益激烈化发展。为此,国家教育部门综合考量制定出了创新创业实施对策,希望借助创新创业教育活动的开展来对学生的创业技能进行优化培育,促使学生可以通过自主创业来实现就业,以此来减轻社会就业竞争力对毕业大学生的影响。而理工科专业大学生基于自身专业知识结构、能力的特点,使得其极具创业潜力,但受各方面因素的影响,导致其创业教育目前仍面临一定的问题,严重阻碍了其创业潜力的开发。为此,作为一名教育工作者,我们有必要从自身工作实际出发,围绕理工科专业大学生创业教育展开一番深入的研究与探讨,从创业氛围、创业实践机会两方面就目前存在于理工科专业大学生创业教育中的普遍问题进行了深入的探究。并在此基础上,从创业教育培育理念、原则、课程体系建设、创业实践活动实施四个方面就理工科专业大学生创业教育优化对策进行了详细的介绍。希望借助以下研究对进一步促进我国理工科专业大学生创业教育体系的完善具有一定的借鉴意义。
新时代高职院校行政管理工作的现状和改革路径探析
Authors: 孟 丽
Published: June 2019

当前,我国的教育事业已经进入了新时代,对学生以及教育工作者的要求也得到了提高。高职院校是为社会建设和国家发展培养和输送实践型人才的主要平台,高职院校的行政管理工作实施效果能在很大的程度上影响学生接受教育的质量。新时代的发展使得高职院校的行政管理工作进入了一个新的阶段,发挥现代化技术的优势,融入先进的管理理念,对高职院校行政管理工作进行改革和创新已经成为了一项重要的教育发展任务。本文就新时代高职院校行政管理工作的现状和改革路径展开了一系列的探析。
大学生拖延行为的影响因素研究综述
Authors: 青 玉霞 , 郑 柳 , 于 敏章 , 廖 佳妮 , 吴 谦谦
Published: June 2019

拖延在大学生中是普遍现象,也是一种复杂的心理现象,造成拖延行为的因素是多样化的。本文采用定性的研究方法在国内外研究的基础上从内在与外两个角度对大学生拖延行为的影响因素进行了综合整理。
基于创新创业导向的体验式教学模式探索--以高职印刷技术专业为例
Authors: 赵 韵姬
Published: June 2019

创新创业教育是一种新型的人才培养与教育模式,决定了它与传统的课程教学方式有本质性的区别。本文以印刷媒体技术专业为例,探索实施体验式教学模式对创新创业人才培养研究,构建适应体验式教学模式的综合教学体系,优化课程体系,更新教学内容、创新教学形式,丰富课程考核方式,着力提升学生的实践动手能力、合作能力和创新创业能力。
突显工匠精神的餐饮服务课程教学实践探索
Authors: 符 荟 , 陈 姬
Published: June 2019

餐饮服务课程是中职高星级饭店运营与管理专业的核心课程,本课程教学实践探索以项目教学为抓手,立足工匠精神养成,在落实学生专业技能训练同时,推进培育工匠精神,以达到“德技双修”的课程目标。让每一位学生以敬畏的姿态投入到学习、工作中,提高学生的竞争力,促进学生的就业和个人职业的发展。
Grammar in primary school EFL textbook activities: a corpus-driven study of their teaching nature and related cognitive implications
Authors: Gris Roca Joaquín
Published: June 2019

One of the fundamental goals of Foreign Language Teaching might be the attainment of implicit knowledge, which underlies oral and written fluency. Textbook activities reflect different explicit and implicit teaching loads following the type of knowledge they are targeted at (explicit, implicit or both). EFL teachers’ implementation of activities can thus help or become a hindrance for the development of implicit knowledge. This study aimed to explore the explicit and implicit teaching nature of 100 activities taken from 10 EFL textbooks used in Spanish primary school teaching. The ultimate goal was to examine whether activities are designed taking into account young learners’ idiosyncratic way of learning. Findings revealed that most primary school EFL textbook activities tend to contain a lower number of activities mostly focused on explicit teaching.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Textese in Academic Writing: Magnitude of Penetration, Impacts, and Perceptions
Authors: Al-kadi Abdu
Published: June 2019

This cross-sectional study examined the distribution of electronic texting patterns in academic writing and effects of textese on EFL learners’ writing performance. It also explored teachers’ perspectives on this phenomenon. Data were gleaned from 60 undergraduates enrolled for a license degree in English language and literature and 10 of their professors who were familiar with writing skills of this body of informants. A corpus of texts derived from exam scripts, assignments, and lecture notes was analyzed, and the teachers were interviewed. The results revealed that learners tend to transfer some patterns of instant messaging (IM) into their writing. However, this remains rather limited to morphosyntactic features and some other paralinguistic features and local-based contents. The phenomenon was pervasive across the sample in a descending order; learners at the entry level e-texted more than their seniors did. Besides, heavy texters used this deformed variety of English to compensate low writing proficiency in terms of spelling, word selection, and sentence structures. Additionally, texting was apparently evident in note-taking more than in answer sheets and assignments. The study concludes that textese is not a surrogate for the Standard English but an addition to it with a variance of scope and purpose of usage.
Pengaruh Kecerdasan Emosional dan Adversity Quotient terhadap Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematika Siswa SDIT IQRA’1 Kota Bengkulu
Authors: Merianah Merianah
Published: June 2019

Penelitian ini  bertujuan untuk  mengetahui pengaruh langsung dan tidak langsung  antara kecerdasan emosional, adversity quotient terhadap kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematika.Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode survey dengan pendekatan kuantitatif yang  dilakukan di SDIT IQRA’ 1 Kota Bengkulu  tahun pelajaran 2017/2018 di kelas IV. Pengumpulan data  dilakukan melalui dokumentasi dan instrument berupa kuesioner dan tes pemecahan masalah. Data hasil tes dianalisis menggunakan uji analisis jalur dengan taraf signifikansi 5%. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan ada pengaruh langsung positif secara signifikan antara  kecerdasan emosi, Adversity quotient, kecerdasan emosional, serta kecerdasan emosi terhadap  Adversity quotient.
Kıyâme Suresi 19. Ayeti Bağlamında Sünnetin Kaynağı ve Hz. Peygamber’in (sas) Tebyin Görevi
Authors: Karabulut Fuat
Published: June 2019

Sünnetin konumu, sünnet-vahiy ilişkisi,
sünnetin vahiy kaynaklı olup olmadığı konuları günümüzde sıkça gündeme
getirilmekte ve bu bağlamda sünnetin dindeki konumuyla ilgili değerlendirmelere
yer verilmektedir. Sünnetin dindeki konumuna ilişkin tartışmalarda, Kur’ân'dan
bazı ayetler delil olarak sunulmaktadır. Ancak sünnetin dindeki konumunun Hz. Peygamber’in
konumundan bağımsız değerlendirilmesi düşünülemez. Şüphesiz ki bu konuda
başvurulması gereken ilk kaynak Kur’ân-ı Kerim’dir.

Bu çalışmada, sünnetin kaynağı, dindeki
yeri, korunması ve Resûlullah’ın Kur’ân’ı açıklaması (tebyîn) konuları, Kıyâme Suresi’nin
19. ayeti bağlamında ele alınmaya çalışılacaktır. Tefsir ve Hadis kaynaklarında
Kıyâme Suresi’nin 16-19. ayetleri bir bütün olarak incelendiğinden öncelikle bu
ayetlerin nüzul sebebi verilecek, ardından kaynaklarda verilen bilgiler
ışığında ilgili ayet değerlendirilmeye çalışılacaktır.
Integration of Production Planning and Scheduling Based on RTN Representation under Uncertainties
Authors: Zhang Tao , Wang Yue , Jin Xin , Lu Shan
Published: June 2019

Production planning and scheduling are important bases for production decisions. Concerning the traditional modeling of production planning and scheduling based on Resource-Task Network (RTN) representation, uncertain factors such as utilities are rarely considered as constraints. For the production planning and scheduling problem based on RTN representation in an uncertain environment, this paper formulates the multi-period bi-level integrated model of planning and scheduling, and introduces the uncertainties of demand and utility in planning and scheduling layers respectively. Rolling horizon optimization strategy is utilized to solve the bi-level integrated model iteratively. The simulation results show that the proposed model and algorithm are feasible and effective, can calculate the consumption of utility in every period, decrease the effects of uncertain factors on optimization results, more accurately describe the uncertain factors, and reflect the actual production process.
The Role of Relativistic Many-Body Theory in Electron Electric Dipole Moment Searches Using Cold Molecules
Authors: Prasannaa V. S. , Sunaga A. , Abe M. , Hada M. , Shitara N. , Sakurai A. , Das B. P.
Published: June 2019

In this review article, we survey some of our results pertaining to the search for the electric dipole moment of the electron (eEDM), using heavy polar molecules. In particular, we focus on the relativistic coupled cluster method (RCCM) and its applications to eEDM searches in YbF, HgX (X = F, Cl, Br, and I), BaF, HgA (A = Li, Na, and K), and YbOH. Our results are presented in a systematic manner, by first introducing the eEDM and its measurement using molecules, the importance of relativistic many-body theory, and finally our results, followed by future prospects.
Stochastic Electrodynamics: Lessons from Regularizing the Harmonic Oscillator
Authors: Nieuwenhuizen Theodorus Maria
Published: June 2019

In this paper, the harmonic oscillator problem in Stochastic Electrodynamics is revisited. Using the exact shape of the Lorentz damping term prevents run-away effects. After introducing a cut-off in the stochastic power spectrum and regularizing the stochastic force, all relevant integrals are dominated by resonance effects only and results are derived that stem from those in the quantum ground state. For an orbit with specific position and momentum at an initial time, the average energy and the average rate of energy change are evaluated, which stem with each other. Resonance effects are highlighted along the way. An outlook on the hydrogen ground state problem is provided.
Clinical Impact of RANK Signalling in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Wieser Verena , Sprung Susanne , Tsibulak Irina , Haybaeck Johannes , Hackl Hubert , Fiegl Heidelinde , Marth Christian , Zeimet Alain Gustave
Published: June 2019

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a gynaecological malignancy with poor clinical outcome and limited treatment options. The receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK) pathway, activated by RANK ligand (RANKL), critically controls bone metabolism, tumourigenesis and tumour immune responses. Denosumab, a monocloncal RANKL antibody, exerts tumour-suppressive effects in mice and humans. Here, we investigated the relevance of RANK signalling in OC. RANK, RANKL and OPG expression in 192 epithelial OC tissues was compared to expression in 35 non-malignant control tissues and related to clinico-pathological characteristics. Findings were validated in a cohort of 563 OC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The expression of RANK, RANKL and OPG was studied in four OC cell lines and the impact of RANK ligation or blockade on OC cell proliferation was determined. RANK, RANKL and OPG were expressed in epithelial and stromal cells in OC. RANKL expression was elevated in OC tissue, particularly in BRCA1/2 mutated tumours. High RANKL expression independently predicted reduced progression-free (PFS, p = 0.017) and overall survival (OS, p = 0.007), which could be validated in the TCGA cohort (PFS, p = 0.022; OS, p = 0.046, respectively). Expression of RANK and OPG in OC cells was induced by inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNFα. Neither recombinant RANK ligation nor denosumab treatment affected OC cell proliferation. Our study independently links RANKL expression with poor clinical outcome in two unrelated OC cohorts. These findings implicate RANK signalling in the immunopathogenesis of OC and warrant clinical trials with denosumab in OC.
MZF1 and SCAND1 Reciprocally Regulate CDC37 Gene Expression in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Eguchi Takanori , Prince Thomas L. , Tran Manh Tien , Sogawa Chiharu , Lang Benjamin J. , Calderwood Stuart K.
Published: June 2019

Cell division control 37 (CDC37) increases the stability of heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) client proteins and is thus essential for numerous intracellular oncogenic signaling pathways, playing a key role in prostate oncogenesis. Notably, elevated expression of CDC37 was found in prostate cancer cells, although the regulatory mechanisms through which CDC37 expression becomes increased are unknown. Here we show both positive and negative regulation of CDC37 gene transcription by two members of the SREZBP-CTfin51-AW1-Number 18 cDNA (SCAN) transcription factor family—MZF1 and SCAND1, respectively. Consensus DNA-binding motifs for myeloid zinc finger 1 (MZF1/ZSCAN6) were abundant in the CDC37 promoter region. MZF1 became bound to these regulatory sites and trans-activated the CDC37 gene whereas MZF1 depletion decreased CDC37 transcription and reduced the tumorigenesis of prostate cancer cells. On the other hand, SCAND1, a zinc fingerless SCAN box protein that potentially inhibits MZF1, accumulated at MZF1-binding sites in the CDC37 gene, negatively regulated the CDC37 gene and inhibited tumorigenesis. SCAND1 was abundantly expressed in normal prostate cells but was reduced in prostate cancer cells, suggesting a potential tumor suppressor role of SCAND1 in prostate cancer. These findings indicate that CDC37, a crucial protein in prostate cancer progression, is regulated reciprocally by MZF1 and SCAND1.
Preferential Response of Basal-Like Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines to EGFR-Targeted Therapy Depending on EREG-Driven Oncogenic Addiction
Authors: Job Sylvie , de Reyniès Aurélien , Heller Betty , Weiss Amélie , Guérin Eric , Macabre Christine , Ledrappier Sonia , Bour Cyril , Wasylyk Christine , Etienne-Selloum Nelly , Brino Laurent , Gaiddon Christian , Wasylyk Bohdan , Jung Alain C.
Published: June 2019

The management of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), achieves only moderate response rates, and clinical trials that evaluated EGFR-blockade with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) yielded disappointing results. Inter-tumor heterogeneity may hinder the therapeutic efficiency of anti-EGFR treatments. HNSCC heterogeneity was addressed in several studies, which all converged towards the definition of molecular subgroups. They include the basal subgroup, defined by the deregulated expression of factors involved in the EGFR signaling pathway, including the epiregulin EGFR ligand encoded by the EREG gene. These observations indicate that basal tumors could be more sensitive to anti-EGFR treatments. To test this hypothesis, we performed a screen of a representative collection of basal versus non-basal HNSCC cell lines for their sensitivity to several anti-EGFR drugs (Cetuximab, Afatinib, and Gefitinib), tested as monotherapy or in combination with drugs that target closely-linked pathways [Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase/extracellular signal–regulated kinases (MEK), mammalian Target of Rapamycine (mTOR) or Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 (HER2)]. Basal-like cell lines were found to be more sensitive to EGFR blockade alone or in combination with treatments that target MEK, mTOR, or HER2. Strikingly, the basal-like status was found to be a better predictor of cell response to EGFR blockade than clinically relevant mutations [e.g., cyclin-dependent kinase Inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A)]. Interestingly, we show that EGFR blockade inhibits EREG expression, and that EREG knock-down decreases basal cell clonogenic survival, suggesting that EREG expression could be a predictive functional marker of sensitivity to EGFR blockade in basal-like HNSCC.
Taxol-Loaded MSC-Derived Exosomes Provide a Therapeutic Vehicle to Target Metastatic Breast Cancer and Other Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Melzer Catharina , Rehn Vanessa , Yang Yuanyuan , Bähre Heike , von der Ohe Juliane , Hass Ralf
Published: June 2019

MSC-derived exosomes display, among others, an efficient biocompatibility and a reduced intrinsic immunogenicity, representing a valuable vehicle for drug delivery in a tumor-therapeutic approach. Following treatment of several human mesenchymal stroma/stem-like cell (MSC) populations with sub-lethal concentrations of taxol for 24 h, exosomes were isolated and applied to different human cancer populations including A549 lung cancer, SK-OV-3 ovarian cancer, and MDA-hyb1 breast cancer cells. While MSC control exosomes revealed little if any growth inhibition on the tumor cells, exposure to taxol-loaded MSC-derived exosomes was associated with 80–90% cytotoxicity. A similar application of taxol-loaded exosomes from HuVEC displayed much fewer effects. Quantification by LC-MS/MS analysis demonstrated a 7.6-fold reduced taxol concentration in MSC exosomes when compared to equivalent cytotoxic in vitro effects achieved with taxol substances, indicating a specific and more efficient tumor-targeting property. Consequently, MSC-derived taxol exosomes were tested in vivo. Highly metastatic MDA-hyb1 breast tumors were induced in NODscid mice, and systemic intravenous application of MSC-derived taxol exosomes revealed a more than 60% reduction of subcutaneous primary tumors. Moreover, the amount of distant organ metastases observed at least in lung, liver, spleen, and kidney was reduced by 50% with MSC taxol exosomes, similar to the effects observed with taxol, although the concentration of taxol in exosomes was about 1000-fold reduced. Together, these findings in different cancer cell populations and in vivo provide promising future perspectives for drug-loaded MSC-derived exosomes in efficiently targeting primary tumors and metastases by reducing side effects.
The Helicobacter pylori Urease Virulence Factor Is Required for the Induction of Hypoxia-Induced Factor-1α in Gastric Cells
Authors: Valenzuela-Valderrama Manuel , Cerda-Opazo Paulina , Backert Steffen , González María Fernanda , Carrasco-Véliz Nicolás , Jorquera-Cordero Carla , Wehinger Sergio , Canales Jimena , Bravo Denisse , Quest Andrew F. G.
Published: June 2019

Chronic Helicobacter pylori infection increases the risk of gastric cancer and induction of hypoxia-induced factor (HIF), which is frequently associated with the development and progression of several types of cancer. We recently showed that H. pylori activation of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway in gastric cells increased HIF-1α expression. Here, we identified the H. pylori virulence factor responsible for HIF-1α induction. A mutant of the H. pylori 84-183 strain was identified with reduced ability to induce HIF-1α. Coomassie blue staining of extracts from these bacteria separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) revealed poor expression of urease subunits that correlated with reduced urease activity. This finding was confirmed in the 26695 strain, where urease mutants were unable to induce HIF-1α expression. Of note, HIF-1α induction was also observed in the presence of the urease inhibitor acetohydroxamic acid at concentrations (of 20 mM) that abrogated urease activity in bacterial culture supernatants, suggesting that enzymatic activity of the urease is not required for HIF-1α induction. Finally, the pre-incubation of the human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line AGS with blocking antibodies against Toll-like receptor-2 (TLR2), but not TLR4, prevented HIF-1α induction. In summary, these results reveal a hitherto unexpected role for the urease protein in HIF-1α induction via TLR2 activation following H. pylori infection of gastric cells.
Machine-Learning-Based Prediction of Treatment Outcomes Using MR Imaging-Derived Quantitative Tumor Information in Patients with Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinomas: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Fujima Noriyuki , Shimizu Yukie , Yoshida Daisuke , Kano Satoshi , Mizumachi Takatsugu , Homma Akihiro , Yasuda Koichi , Onimaru Rikiya , Sakai Osamu , Kudo Kohsuke , Shirato Hiroki
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine the predictive power for treatment outcome of a machine-learning algorithm combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived data in patients with sinonasal squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). Thirty-six primary lesions in 36 patients were evaluated. Quantitative morphological parameters and intratumoral characteristics from T2-weighted images, tumor perfusion parameters from arterial spin labeling (ASL) and tumor diffusion parameters of five diffusion models from multi-b-value diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) were obtained. Machine learning by a non-linear support vector machine (SVM) was used to construct the best diagnostic algorithm for the prediction of local control and failure. The diagnostic accuracy was evaluated using a 9-fold cross-validation scheme, dividing patients into training and validation sets. Classification criteria for the division of local control and failure in nine training sets could be constructed with a mean sensitivity of 0.98, specificity of 0.91, positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.94, negative predictive value (NPV) of 0.97, and accuracy of 0.96. The nine validation data sets showed a mean sensitivity of 1.0, specificity of 0.82, PPV of 0.86, NPV of 1.0, and accuracy of 0.92. In conclusion, a machine-learning algorithm using various MR imaging-derived data can be helpful for the prediction of treatment outcomes in patients with sinonasal SCCs.
The Contribution of Experiential Learning to the Development of Cognitive and Social Skills in Secondary Education: A Case Study
Authors: Voukelatou Gianna
Published: June 2019

This paper is an attempt to approach the concept of experiential learning and describes the implementation of the project teaching method in a secondary school in Athens. In the framework of this study, we carried out qualitative research using the method of in-depth interview. We aimed at recording the views, perceptions, feelings and attitudes of 20 students that participated in the project “Traditional dances from different parts of Greece.” The results showed the significant impact of experiential learning on acquiring knowledge and developing social skills and students’ attitudes, while contributing to the promotion of cultural heritage and the values of tradition. This is an original research study that depicts experiential learning in teaching as well as analyzing the teaching method of the project in combination with other different experiential/energetic educational techniques. In general, trainers and scientists of pedagogy and school psychology can use the results to design and implement educational programs in schools of all educational levels based on the experiential teaching method of learning.
Mechanical and Ultrasonic Testing of Self-Compacting Concrete
Authors: Li Hongbo , Sun Hao , Tian Juncang , Yang Qiuning , Wan Qingqing
Published: June 2019

Based on the urban shantytown renovation project in Hongguang Town, Helan County, Ningxia, in Northwest China, the influence of fly ash and silica fume admixture on the mechanical properties of Self-compacting Concrete (SCC) was tested and analyzed in this work. The experimental tests including compressive strength, splitting strength, triaxial strength and an ultrasonic nondestructive test. Furthermore, the Back Propagation (BP) neural network algorithms were established. The results show that there is an obvious difference between the development law of compressive strength of SCC and that of ordinary concrete. The splitting pressure ratio of SCC is 1/10 to 1/8, while that of ordinary concrete is 1/13 to 1/10. Moreover, the peak strain, peak stress and initial stiffness of SCC increase with the increase of the confining pressure when compressed from three directions. In addition, the ultrasonic amplitude of SCC can reflect the changing laws of its compressive strength. As a conclusion, the addition of fly ash and silica fume increases the splitting pressure ratio of SCC. More importantly, the compressive strength formula for SCC with silica fume and a low content of fly ash is proposed, and the model equation between the amplitude and compressive strength is given. This study provides a reference for the mixture ratio of fly ash and silica fume in the application of SCC.
Digital Marketing Actions That Achieve a Better Attraction and Loyalty of Users: An Analytical Study
Authors: López García Juan José , Lizcano David , Ramos Celia MQ , Matos Nelson
Published: June 2019

Currently, the digital economy contributes decisively to an increase in competitiveness, especially as a digital transformation involves migrating to new technological models where digital marketing is a key part of growth and user loyalty strategies. Internet and Digital Marketing have become important factors in campaigns, which attract and retain Internet users. This study aims to identify the main ways in which users can be gained and retained by using Digital Marketing. The Delphi method with in-depth interviews was the methodology used in this study. The results of the research show the most important actions for achieving user recruitment and loyalty with Digital Marketing from the opinions of consulted experts. The limitations of this study are those related to the number of experts included in the study, and the number of research papers consulted in the literature review. The literature review and the results of this research are used to propose new solid research with a consolidated critical methodology. This research deals with a new approach that will optimize web technologies for the evolution of user trends, and therefore, will be of academic and professional use for marketing managers and web solution developers. The conclusions of the investigation show the key factors, discarding others that do not affect the optimization of conversions in B2C businesses such as the duration of the session and the rebound percentage. Likewise, the results of the research identify the specific actions that must be carried out to attract and retain users in B2C companies that use the Digital Marketing ecosystem on the Internet. The requirements for companies that wish to implement a model to optimize conversions using the current digital economy are also shown.
Ransomware and Reputation
Authors: Cartwright Anna , Cartwright Edward
Published: June 2019

Ransomware is a particular form of cyber-attack in which a victim loses access to either his electronic device or files unless he pays a ransom to criminals. A criminal’s ability to make money from ransomware critically depends on victims believing that the criminal will honour ransom payments. In this paper we explore the extent to which a criminal can build trust through reputation. We demonstrate that there are situations in which it is optimal for the criminal to always return the files and situations in which it is not. We argue that the ability to build reputation will depend on how victims distinguish between different ransomware strands. If ransomware is to survive as a long term revenue source for criminals then they need to find ways of building a good reputation.
Distribution of Duffy Phenotypes among Plasmodium vivax Infections in Sudan
Authors: Albsheer Musab M.A. , Pestana Kareen , Ahmed Safaa , Elfaki Mohammed , Gamil Eiman , Ahmed Salma M. , Ibrahim Muntaser E. , Musa Ahmed M. , Lo Eugenia , Hamid Muzamil M. Abdel
Published: June 2019

Negative Duffy expression on the surface of human red blood cells was believed to be a barrier for Plasmodium vivax infection in most Africans. However, P. vivax has been demonstrated to infect Duffy-negative individuals in several Central and East African countries. In this study, we investigated the distribution of Duffy blood group phenotypes with regard to P. vivax infection and parasitemia in Sudan. Out of 992 microscopic-positive malaria samples, 190 were identified as P. vivax positive infections. Among them, 186 were P. vivax mono-infections and 4 were mixed P. vivax and Plasmodium falciparum infections. A subset of 77 samples was estimated with parasitemia by quantitative real-time PCR. Duffy codons were sequenced from the 190 P. vivax positive samples. We found that the Duffy Fy(a-b+) phenotype was the most prevalent, accounting for 67.9% of all P. vivax infections, while homozygous Duffy-negative Fy(a-b-) accounted for 17.9% of the P. vivax infections. The prevalence of infection in Fy(a-b+) and Fy(a+b-)were significantly higher than Fy(a-b-) phenotypes (p = 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). A significantly low proportion of P. vivax infection was observed in Duffy negative individuals Fy(a-b-). This study highlights the prevalence of P. vivax in Duffy-negatives in Sudan and indicates low parasitemia among the Duffy-negative individuals.
A Wheat β-Patchoulene Synthase Confers Resistance against Herbivory in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Pu Qingyu , Liang Jin , Shen Qinqin , Fu Jingye , Pu Zhien , Liu Jiang , Wang Xuegui , Wang Qiang
Published: June 2019

Terpenoids play important roles in plant defense. Although some terpene synthases have been characterized, terpenoids and their biosynthesis in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) still remain largely unknown. Here, we describe the identification of a terpene synthase gene in wheat. It encodes a sesquiterpene synthase that catalyzes β-patchoulene formation with E,E-farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) as the substrate, thus named as TaPS. TaPS exhibits inducible expression in wheat in response to various elicitations. Particularly, alamethicin treatment strongly induces TaPS gene expression and β-patchoulene accumulation in wheat. Overexpression of TaPS in Arabidopsis successfully produces β-patchoulene, verifying the biochemical function of TaPS in planta. Furthermore, these transgenic Arabidopsis plants exhibit resistance against herbivory by repelling beet armyworm larvae feeding, thereby indicating anti-herbivory activity of β-patchoulene. The catalytic mechanism of TaPS is also explored by homology modeling and site-directed mutagenesis. Two key amino acids are identified to act in protonation and stability of intermediates and product formation. Taken together, one wheat sesquiterpene synthase is identified as β-patchoulene synthase. TaPS exhibits inducible gene expression and the sesquiterpene β-patchoulene is involved in repelling insect infestation.
Digital Shakespeare Is Neither Good Nor Bad, But Teaching Makes It So
Authors: Casey Jim
Published: June 2019

Digital Shakespeare is all around us: mobile apps, YouTube videos, online “participatory cultures,” electronic playtexts, web-based educational materials, even Shakespeare-themed videogames. But how do these resources intersect with the teaching of Shakespeare in the university classroom? In particular, how might digital technologies aid or impede the effective teaching of close reading and critical interpretation in relation to Shakespeare? Rather than discussing the various creative and interactive platforms and media available to the Shakespeare instructor, this essay focuses on recent studies exploring the consequences of using e-readers and other digital devices on individual brains in order to present (1) the demonstrably negative impact of “multitasking” on student learning, (2) the potentially damaging effects of using e-readers and e-texts in the Shakespeare classroom, and (3) suggestions regarding the best practices for teaching students to engage with complex texts like the works of Shakespeare.
pH-Dependent Leaching Characteristics of Major and Toxic Elements from Red Mud
Authors: Cui Yulong , Chen Jiannan , Zhang Yibo , Peng Daoping , Huang Tao , Sun Chunwei
Published: June 2019

This study analyzes the leaching behavior of elements from red mud (bauxite residue) at pH values ranging from 2 to 13. The leaching characteristics of metals and contaminated anions in five red mud samples produced by Bayer and combined processes were analyzed using the batch leaching technique following the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Method 1313. In addition, the geochemical model of MINTEQ 3.1 was used to identify the leaching mechanisms of metals. The results showed that Ca, Mg, and Ba follow the cationic leaching pattern. Al, As, and Cr show an amphoteric leaching pattern. The leaching of Cl− is unaffected by the pH. The maximum leaching concentration of the proprietary elements occurs under extremely acidic conditions (pH = 2), except for As. The leaching concentration of F− reaches 1.4–27.0 mg/L in natural pH conditions (i.e., no acid or base addition). At the same pH level, the leaching concentrations of Pb, As, Cr, and Cu are generally higher from red mud produced by the combined process than that those of red mud from the Bayer process. The leaching concentration of these elements is not strongly related to the total elemental concentration in the red mud. Geochemical modeling analysis indicates that the leaching of metal elements, including Al, Ca, Fe, Cr, Cu, Pb, Mg, Ba, and Mn, in red mud are controlled by solubility. The leaching of these elements depended on the dissolution/precipitation of their (hydr)oxides, carbonate, or sulfate solids.
Assessing Students’ Knowledge on WASH-Related Diseases
Authors: Mourad Khaldoon A. , Habumugisha Vincent , Sule Bolaji F.
Published: June 2019

Water-, sanitation-, and hygiene-related diseases are killing many people each year in developing countries, including Rwanda, and children under the age of five are the most vulnerable. This research assessed human waste disposal practices, knowledge on diseases caused by contact with human faeces, and knowledge on causes and prevention of selected WASH-related diseases. One thousand one hundred and seventy-three students were interviewed out of 2900 students. The results showed, regarding students’ waste disposal practices, that 96.3% use latrines, 20.5% practice open defecation in bushes, and 3.2% defecate in water bodies. Regarding knowledge on diseases caused by contact with human faeces, 56.9% responded that they were aware of cholera, 26.5% of diarrhoea, 2.2% of dysentery, 0.3% of malaria, 0.1% of shigellosis, and 3.8% of typhoid. The majority of the respondents, between 50–99%, could not identify the main causes of the WASH-related diseases. This paper also showed that students lack health knowledge in regard to WASH-related diseases’ causes and prevention. Therefore, the provision of water and sanitation infrastructures should go with the provision of health education on how to avoid these diseases and possible ways to improve the well-being of the students both at home and in their various schools.
Plant Growth Promotion and Biocontrol of Pythium ultimum by Saline Tolerant Trichoderma Isolates under Salinity Stress
Authors: Sánchez-Montesinos Brenda , Diánez Fernando , Moreno-Gavira Alejandro , Gea Francisco J. , Santos Mila
Published: June 2019

This present study evaluates three isolates of Trichoderma as plant growth promoting or biological control agents: Trichoderma aggressivum f. sp. europaeum, Trichoderma saturnisporum, and the marine isolate obtained from Posidonia oceanica, Trichoderma longibrachiatum. The purpose is to contribute to an overall reduction in pesticide residues in the fruit and the environment and to a decrease in chemical fertilizers, the excess of which aggravates one of the most serious abiotic stresses, salinity. The tolerance of the different isolates to increasing concentrations of sodium chloride was evaluated in vitro, as well as their antagonistic capacity against Pythium ultimum. The plant growth promoting capacity and effects of Trichoderma strains on the severity of P. ultimum on melon seedlings under saline conditions were also analysed. The results reveal that the three isolates of Trichoderma, regardless of their origin, alleviate the stress produced by salinity, resulting in larger plants with an air-dry weight percentage above 80% in saline stress conditions for T. longibrachiatum, or an increase in root-dry weight close to 50% when T. aggressivum f. sp. europaeum was applied. Likewise, the three isolates showed antagonistic activity against P. ultimum, reducing the incidence of the disease, with the highest response found for T. longibrachiatum. Biological control of P. ultimum by T. aggressivum f. sp. europaeum and T. saturnisporum is reported for the first time, reducing disease severity by 62.96% and 51.85%, respectively. This is the first description of T. aggressivum f. sp. europaeum as a biological control agent and growth promoter. The application of these isolates can be of enormous benefit to horticultural crops, in both seedbeds and greenhouses.
Efficient Photodynamic Therapy of Prostate Cancer Cells through an Improved Targeting of the Cation-Independent Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptor
Authors: Bouffard Elise , Mauriello Jimenez Chiara , El Cheikh Khaled , Maynadier Marie , Basile Ilaria , Raehm Laurence , Nguyen Christophe , Gary-Bobo Magali , Garcia Marcel , Durand Jean-Olivier , Morère Alain
Published: June 2019

The aim of the present work is the development of highly efficient targeting molecules to specifically address mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) designed for the photodynamic therapy (PDT) of prostate cancer. We chose the strategy to develop a novel compound that allows the improvement of the targeting of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor, which is overexpressed in prostate cancer. This original sugar, a dimannoside-carboxylate (M6C-Man) grafted on the surface of MSN for PDT applications, leads to a higher endocytosis and thus increases the efficacy of MSNs.
Evaluation of a Nanocomposite Based on Reduced Graphene Oxide and Gold Nanoparticles as an Electrochemical Platform for Detection of Sulfamethazine
Authors: Silva Martin , Cesarino Ivana
Published: June 2019

A nanocomposite based on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was synthesized by the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method and applied in the determination of sulfamethazine (SMZ) in swine effluent using a glassy carbon (GC) electrode. The rGO-AuNPs nanocomposite was characterized morphologically, electrochemically and spectrochemically, showing that rGO was modified with the AuNPs. The GC/rGO-AuNPs electrode was optimized for the determination of SMZ, achieving detection limits of 0.1 μmol L−1. The proposed sensor was successfully applied to the determination of SMZ in synthetic swine effluent samples.
Tripod-Supported Offshore Wind Turbines: Modal and Coupled Analysis and a Parametric Study Using X-SEA and FAST
Authors: Plodpradit Pasin , Dinh Van Nguyen , Kim Ki-Du
Published: June 2019

This paper presents theoretical aspects and an extensive numerical study of the coupled analysis of tripod support structures for offshore wind turbines (OWTs) by using X-SEA and FAST v8 programs. In a number of site conditions such as extreme and longer period waves, fast installation, and lighter foundations, tripod structures are more advantageous than monopile and jacket structures. In the implemented dynamic coupled analysis, the sub-structural module in FAST was replaced by the X-SEA offshore substructure analysis component. The time-histories of the reaction forces and the turbine loads were then calculated. The results obtained from X-SEA and from FAST were in good agreement. The pile-soil-structure interaction (PSSI) was included for reliable evaluation of OWT structural systems. The superelement concept was introduced to reduce the computational time. Modal, coupled and uncoupled analyses of the NREL 5MW OWT-tripod support structure including PSSI were carried out and the discussions on the natural frequencies, mode shapes and resulted displacements are presented. Compared to the uncoupled models, the physical interaction between the tower and the support structure in the coupled models resulted in smaller responses. Compared to the fixed support structures, i.e., when PSSI is not included, the piled-support structure has lower natural frequencies and larger responses attributed to its actual flexibility. The models using pile superelements are computationally efficient and give results that are identical to the common finite element models.
AdTurtle: An Advanced Turtle Trading System
Authors: Vezeris Dimitrios , Karkanis Ioannis , Kyrgos Themistoklis
Published: June 2019

For this research, we implemented a trading system based on the Turtle rules and examined its efficiency when trading selected assets from the Forex, Metals, Commodities, Energy and Cryptocurrency Markets using historical data. Afterwards, we enhanced our Turtle-based trading system with additional conditions for opening a new position. Specifically, we added an exclusion zone based on the ATR indicator, in order to have controlled conditions for opening a new position after a stop loss signal was triggered. Thus, AdTurtle was developed, a Turtle trading system with advanced algorithms of opening and closing positions. To the best of our knowledge, for the first time this variation of the Turtle trading system has been developed and examined.
Stock Investment and Excess Returns: A Critical Review in the Light of the Efficient Market Hypothesis
Authors: Ying Qianwei , Yousaf Tahir , Ain Qurat ul , Akhtar Yasmeen , Rasheed Muhammad Shahid
Published: June 2019

The expansion of investment strategies and capital markets is altering the significance and empirical rationality of the Efficient Market Hypothesis. The vitality of capital markets is essential for efficiency research. The authors explore here the development and contemporary status of the efficient market hypothesis by emphasizing anomaly/excess returns. Investors often fail to get excess returns; however, thus far, market anomalies have been witnessed and stock prices have diverged from their intrinsic value. This paper presents an analysis of anomaly returns in the presence of the theory of the efficient market. Moreover, the market efficiency progression is reviewed and its present status is explored. Finally, the authors provide enough evidence of a data snooping issue, which violates and challenges the existing proof and creates room for replication studies in modern finance.
Conditional Dependence between Oil Prices and Exchange Rates in BRICS Countries: An Application of the Copula-GARCH Model
Authors: He Yijin , Hamori Shigeyuki
Published: June 2019

We studied the dependence structure between West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil prices and the exchange rates of BRICS1 countries, using copula models. We used the Normal, Plackett, rotated-Gumbel, and Student’s t copulas to measure the constant dependence, and we captured the dynamic dependence using the Generalized Autoregressive Score with the Student’s t copula. We found that negative dependence and significant tail dependence exist in all pairs considered. The Russian Ruble (RUB)–WTI pair has the strongest dependence. Moreover, we treated five exchange rate–oil pairs as portfolios and evaluated the Value at Risk and Expected Shortfall from the time-varying copula models. We found that both reach low values when the oil price falls sharply.
5,5′-Thiobis(3-methoxy-4H-1,2,6-thiadiazin-4-one)
Authors: Kalogirou Andreas S. , Koutentis Panayiotis A.
Published: June 2019

The reaction of 3-chloro-5-methoxy-4H-1,2,6-thiadiazin-4-one (9) with Na2S·9H2O (0.5 equiv) in tetrahydrofuran (THF) at ca. 20 °C for 20 h gives 5,5′-thiobis(3-methoxy-4H-1,2,6-thiadiazin-4-one) (10) in a 44% yield as yellow needles. The compound was fully characterized.
Preparation of Carbon Aerogel Electrode for Electrosorption of Copper Ions in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Cao Ziling , Zhang Chen , Yang Zhuoxin , Qin Qing , Zhang Zhihua , Wang Xiaodong , Shen Jun
Published: June 2019

Carbon aerogel (CA) has a rich porous structure, in which micropores and mesopores provide a huge specific surface area to form electric double layers. This property can be applied to the application of capacitive deionization (CDI). The adsorption effect of CA electrode on Cu2+ in an aqueous solution was explored for solving heavy metal water pollution. The CAs were synthesized by a sol-gel process using an atmospheric drying method. The structure of CAs was characterized by scanning in an electron microscope (SEM) and nitrogen adsorption/desorption techniques. The adsorption system was built using Cu2+ solution as the simulation of heavy metal pollution solution. The control variate method was used to investigate the effect of the anion species in copper solution, the molar ratio of resorcinol to catalyst (R/C) of CA, and the applied voltage and concentration of copper ion on the adsorption results.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Spark Plasma Sintered Si3N4/WC Ceramic Tools
Authors: Wang Zhenhua , Jia Jiheng , Cao Liyan , Sun Ning , Wang Yulin
Published: June 2019

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) based ceramic tools exhibit good machinability in cutting materials such as gray cast iron, ductile iron, malleable cast iron, and superalloys due to excellent high-temperature mechanical properties. In this paper, high-performance Si3N4-based ceramic tools containing tungsten carbide (WC) and cobalt (Co) were studied. Effects of the WC content and Co content on mechanical properties and a microstructure of Si3N4-based ceramic materials were analyzed. Results showed that Si3N4-based ceramic material containing 10 wt % WC and 1 wt % Co had the best comprehensive mechanical properties at a sintering temperature of 1650 °C and holding time of 6 min, achieving Vickers hardness, fracture toughness, and room temperature bending strength of 16.96 GPa, 7.26 MPa·m1/2, and 1132 MPa, respectively. The microstructure of Si3N4-based ceramic tool material is uniform without obvious abnormal growth. The Si3N4-based ceramic tool was mainly composed of α-Si3N4, β-Si3N4, and WC phases.