bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementasi e-modul berbasis proyek untuk meningkatkan aktivitas dan hasil belajar mahasiswa STKIP Qomaruddin Gresik
Authors: Jamaluddin Muhammad , Nisa' Roisatun
Published: February 2019

Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada mahasiswa Prodi Pendidikan Matematika  STKIP Qomaruddin Gresik bertujuan untuk meningkatkan aktivitas dan hasil belajar mahasiswa menggunakan e-modul berbasis proyek. Jenis penelitian ini adalah Action Research dengan subjek penelitian adalah mahasiswa yang menempuh mata kuliah sistem evaluasi pembelajaran matematika. Pengumpulan data penelitian menggunakan observasi dan tugas proyek. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa aktivitas dan hasil belajar mahasiswa meningkat. Peningkatan dapat diketahui dari perbandingan skor aktivitas belajar pada mahasiswa siklus I dan siklus II. Pada tahap tindakan siklus I, Sebanyak 64%  mahasiswa tergolong sangat aktif, 36% mahasiswa tergolong aktif, pada tindakan siklus II Sebanyak 73% mahasiswa tergolong sangat aktif, 27% mahasiswa tergolong aktif. Peningkatan penilaian hasil belajar dapat diketahui dari perbandingan skor hasil belajar pada siklus I dan siklus II. Pada tahap tindakan siklus I, sebanyak 55% mahasiswa tergolong sangat tuntas,  sebanyak 41% mahasiswa tergolong tuntas, dan  sebanyak 4% mahasiswa  tergolong tidak  tuntas. Pada tahap tindakan siklus II, sebanyak 64% mahasiswa tergolong sangat tuntas,  sebanyak 36% mahasiswa tergolong tuntas.
Keefektifan strategi konflik kognitif ditinjau dari kemampuan berpikir kritis
Authors: Marlissa Inggrid , Kamariah Kamariah
Published: February 2019

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan keefektifan pembelajaran strategi konflik kognitif dalam pembelajaran yang ditinjau dari kemampuan berpikir kritis. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimen yang populasinya mencakup seluruh siswa kelas X MIPA SMA Negeri 2 Merauke yang terdiri dari enam kelas. Dari enam kelas tersebut, kelas X MIPA 1 dipilih secara acak sebagai sampel. Teknik pengumpulan data dalam penelitian ini adalah teknik tes dengan instrumen untuk mengumpulkan data meliputi soal tes kemampuan berpikir kritis. Untuk melihat keefektifan dari strategi konflik kognitif dalam pembelajaran menggunakan uji univariat. Uji univariat yang digunakan adalah uji t satu sampel. Hasil penelitian pada taraf  5% menunjukkan bahwa pembelajaran dengan strategi konflik kognitif efektif ditinjau dari kemampuan berpikir kritis dan tingkat kemampuan berpikir kritis berada pada kategori sedang.
Selective Offloading by Exploiting ARIMA-BP for Energy Optimization in Mobile Edge Computing Networks
Authors: Zhao Ming , Zhou Ke
Published: February 2019

Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) is an innovative technique, which can provide cloud-computing near mobile devices on the edge of networks. Based on the MEC architecture, this paper proposes an ARIMA-BP-based Selective Offloading (ABSO) strategy, which minimizes the energy consumption of mobile devices while meeting the delay requirements. In ABSO, we exploit an ARIMA-BP model for estimating computation capacity of the edge cloud, and then design a Selective Offloading Algorithm for obtaining offloading strategy. Simulation results reveal that the ABSO can apparently decrease the energy consumption of mobile devices in comparison with other offloading methods.
Randomized Parameterized Algorithms for the Kidney Exchange Problem
Authors: Lin Mugang , Wang Jianxin , Feng Qilong , Fu Bin
Published: February 2019

In order to increase the potential kidney transplants between patients and their incompatible donors, kidney exchange programs have been created in many countries. In the programs, designing algorithms for the kidney exchange problem plays a critical role. The graph theory model of the kidney exchange problem is to find a maximum weight packing of vertex-disjoint cycles and chains for a given weighted digraph. In general, the length of cycles is not more than a given constant L (typically 2 ≤ L ≤ 5), and the objective function corresponds to maximizing the number of possible kidney transplants. In this paper, we study the parameterized complexity and randomized algorithms for the kidney exchange problem without chains from theory. We construct two different parameterized models of the kidney exchange problem for two cases L = 3 and L ≥ 3, and propose two randomized parameterized algorithms based on the random partitioning technique and the randomized algebraic technique, respectively.
Using Neural Networks to Estimate Site-Specific Crop Evapotranspiration with Low-Cost Sensors
Authors: Kelley Jason , Pardyjak Eric R.
Published: February 2019

Irrigation efficiency is facilitated by matching irrigation rates to crop water demand based on estimates of actual evapotranspiration (ET). In production settings, monitoring of water demand is typically accomplished by measuring reference ET rather than actual ET, which is then adjusted approximately using simplified crop coefficients based on calendars of crop maturation. Methods to determine actual ET are usually limited to use in research experiments for reasons of cost, labor and requisite user skill. To pair monitoring and research methods, we co-located eddy covariance sensors with on-farm weather stations over two different irrigated crops (vegetable beans and hazelnuts). Neural networks were used to train a neural network and utilize on-farm weather sensors to report actual ET as measured by the eddy covariance method. This approach was able to robustly estimate ET from as few as four sensor parameters (temperature, solar radiation, humidity and wind speed) with training time as brief as one week. An important limitation found with this machine learning method is that the trained network is only valid under environmental and crop conditions similar to the training period. The small number of required sensors and short training times demonstrate that this approach can estimate site-specific and crop specific ET. With additional field validation, this approach may offer a new method to monitor actual crop water demand for irrigation management.
Optimizing the Sowing Date and Irrigation Strategy to Improve Maize Yield by Using CERES (Crop Estimation through Resource and Environment Synthesis)-Maize Model
Authors: Saddique Qaisar , Cai Huanjie , Ishaque Wajid , Chen Hui , Chau Henry Wai , Chattha Muhammad Umer , Hassan Muhammad Umair , Khan Muhammad Imran , He Jianqiang
Published: February 2019

Summer maize (Zea mays L.) is a widely cultivated crop in the arid and semi-arid Guanzhong region of China. However, due to the spatial and temporal variation in rainfall, the seasonal maize yield varies substantially and occasionally is not economical for poor farmers to produce. Recent water-saving agricultural practices were developed by the government to make it possible to apply supplementary irrigation at optimum sowing dates to maximize maize production under limited rainfall in the region. CERES (Crop Estimation through Resource and Environment Synthesis)-maize model was used to identify the appropriate irrigation strategies, crop growth stages and sowing dates for sustainable maize production. Model calibration process were carried out for full irrigation treatments of four growing seasons, (2012–2015). The data used for calibration included: Crop phenology, grain yield, aboveground biomass and leaf area index. The calibration phase model showed good agreement between simulated and observed values, with normalized root mean square error (nRMSE) ranging from 4.51% to 14.5%. The performance of the calibrated model was evaluated using the field data of grain yield, aboveground biomass, leaf area index and water use efficiency. The performance of the model during evaluation was satisfactory with acceptable nRMSE error ranging from 7% to 10%. Soil moisture content was evaluated for full irrigation treatments for both 2012 and 2013 seasons. With results showing that soil moisture content below 35 cm layer was well simulated with nRMSE, 0.57 to 0.86 respectively. Appropriate simulated sowing dates for higher production and water productivity were from 14 to 24 June. The proper amount and timing of irrigation water application was 100 mm at the flowering stage, and 100 mm at the grain filling stage respectively. Summer maize yield can be improved by adjusting the sowing date and applying supplementary irrigation when precipitation cannot meet the crop water demand in the Guanzhong Plain.
A Single-Dose of a Polyphenol-Rich Fucus Vesiculosus Extract is Insufficient to Blunt the Elevated Postprandial Blood Glucose Responses Exhibited by Healthy Adults in the Evening: A Randomised Crossover Trial
Authors: Murray Margaret , Dordevic Aimee L. , Ryan Lisa , Bonham Maxine P.
Published: February 2019

When healthy adults consume carbohydrates at night, postprandial blood glucose responses are elevated and prolonged compared to daytime.Extended postprandial hyperglycaemia is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Polyphenols are bioactive secondary metabolites of plants and algae with potential to moderate postprandial glycaemia. This study investigated whether a polyphenol-rich alga (Fucus vesiculosus) extract moderated postprandial glycaemia in the evening in healthy adults. In a double blind, placebo-controlled, randomised three-way crossover trial, 18 participants consumed a polyphenol-rich extract, a cellulose placebo and rice flour placebo (7:15 p.m.) prior to 50 g available carbohydrate from bread (7:45 p.m.), followed by three hours of blood sampling to assess glucose and insulin. A subset of participants (n = 8) completed the same protocol once in the morning with only the cellulose placebo (7:15 a.m.). No effect of the polyphenol-rich extract was observed on postprandial glycaemia in the evening, compared with placebos, in the group as a whole. However, in females only, peak blood glucose concentration was reduced following the polyphenol-rich extract. In the subset analysis, as expected, participants exhibited elevated postprandial blood glucose in the evening compared with the morning following the cellulose placebo. This was the first study to investigate whether a polyphenol intervention moderated evening postprandial hyperglycaemia. The lowering effect observed in females suggests that this warrants further investigation.
Oxidant-Mediated Protein Amino Acid Conversion
Authors: Suzuki Yuichiro J.
Published: February 2019

Biological oxidation plays important roles in the pathogenesis of various diseases and aging. Carbonylation is one mode of protein oxidation. It has been reported that amino acids that are susceptible to carbonylation are arginine (Arg), proline (Pro), lysine, and threonine residues. The carbonylation product of both Arg and Pro residues is glutamyl semialdehyde. While chemically the oxidation reactions of neither Pro to glutamyl semialdehyde nor Arg to glutamyl semialdehyde are reversible, experimental results from our laboratory suggest that the biological system may drive the reduction of glutamyl semialdehyde to Pro in the protein structure. Further, glutamyl semialdehyde can be oxidized to become glutamic acid (Glu). Therefore, I hypothesize that biological oxidation post-translationally converts Arg to Pro, Arg to Glu, and Pro to Glu within the protein structure. Our mass spectrometry experiments provided evidence that, in human cells, 5–10% of peroxiredoxin 6 protein molecules have Pro-45 replaced by Glu. This concept of protein amino acid conversion challenges the dogma that amino acid sequences are strictly defined by nucleic acid sequences. I propose that, in the biological system, amino acid replacements can occur post-translationally through redox regulation, and protein molecules with non-DNA coding sequences confer functions.
Multi-Imaging Investigation to Evaluate the Relationship between Serum Cystatin C and Features of Atherosclerosis in Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Taglieri Nevio , Nanni Cristina , Ghetti Gabriele , Bonfiglioli Rachele , Saia Francesco , Buia Francesco , Lima Giacomo Maria , Marco Valeria , Bruno Antonio Giulio , Prati Francesco , Fanti Stefano , Rapezzi Claudio
Published: February 2019

Objectives: High cystatin C(CysC) levels are associated with impaired cardiovascular outcome. Whether CysC levels are independently related to the atherosclerosis burden is still controversial. Methods: We enrolled 31 non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients were divided into 2 groups on the basis of median value of serum CysC. Using the high CysC group as a dependent variable, univariable and multivariable analyses were used to evaluate the association between CysC and three different features of atherosclerosis: 1) coronary plaque vulnerability as assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT), 2) coronary artery calcium (CAC) by means of computed tomography scan, and 3) aortic wall metabolic activity, as assessed using 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET). Results: After univariable and multivariable analyses, 18F-FDG uptake in the descending aorta (DA) was independently associated with a low level of CysC [(Odds Ratio = 0.02; 95%CI 0.0004–0.89; p = 0.044; 18F-FDG uptake measured as averaged maximum target to blood ratio); (Odds Ratio = 0.89; 95%CI 0.82–0.98, p = 0.025; 18F-FDG uptake measured as number of active slices)]. No trend was found for the association between CysC and characteristics of OCT-assessed coronary plaque vulnerability or CAC score. Conclusions: In patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS), 18F-FDG uptake in the DA was associated with a low level of serum CysC. There was no relation between CysC levels and OCT-assessed coronary plaque vulnerability or CAC score. These findings suggest that high levels of CysC may not be considered as independent markers of atherosclerosis.
Successful Release of Voriconazole and Flavonoids from MAPLE Deposited Bioactive Surfaces
Authors: Negut Irina , Visan Anita Ioana , Popescu Camelia , Cristescu Rodica , Ficai Anton , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai , Chifiriuc Mariana C. , Boehm Ryan D. , Yamaleyeva Dina , Taylor Michael , Narayan Roger J. , Chrisey Douglas B.
Published: February 2019

We explored the potential of biomimetic thin films fabricated by means of matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) for releasing combinations of active substances represented by flavonoids (quercetin dihydrate and resveratrol) and antifungal compounds (amphotericin B and voriconazole) embedded in a polyvinylpyrrolidone biopolymer; the antifungal activity of the film components was evaluated using in vitro microbiological assays. Thin films were deposited using a pulsed KrF* excimer laser source which were structurally characterized using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). High-quality thin films with chemical structures similar to dropcast ones were created using an optimum laser fluence of ~80 mJ/cm2. Bioactive substances were included within the polymer thin films using the MAPLE technique. The results of the in vitro microbiology assay, which utilized a modified disk diffusion approach and were performed using two fungal strains (Candida albicans American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) 90028 and Candida parapsilosis American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) 22019), revealed that voriconazole was released in an active form from the polyvinylpyrrolidone matrix. The results of this study show that the MAPLE-deposited bioactive thin films have a promising potential for use in designing combination products and devices, such as drug delivery devices, and medical device surfaces with antifungal activity.
Correlation of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Metal Big Area Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Shassere Benjamin , Nycz Andrzej , Noakes Mark W. , Masuo Christopher , Sridharan Niyanth
Published: February 2019

Metal Big Area Additive Manufacturing (MBAAM) is a novel wire-arc additive manufacturing method that uses a correction-based approach developed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This approach is an integrated software method that minimizes the dynamic nature of welding and compensates for build height. The MBAAM process is used to fabricate simple geometry thin walled specimens, using a C-Mn steel weld wire, to investigate the scatter in mechanical properties and correlate them to the underlying microstructure. The uni-axial tensile tests show isotropic tensile and yield properties with respect to building directions, although some scatter in elongation is observed. Large scatter is observed in the Charpy Impact tests. The microstructure characterization reveals mostly homogenous ferrite grains with some pearlite, except for some changes in morphology and grain size at the interface between the build and the base plate. The measured properties and microstructure are compared with the toughness and strength values reported in the literature, and a hypothesis is developed to rationalize the differences. Overall, the MBAAM process creates stable, isotropic, and weld-like mechanical properties in the deposit, while achieving a precise geometry obtained through a real-time feedback sensing, closed loop control system.
Enhanced Device Performance of GaInN-Based Green Light-Emitting Diode with Sputtered AlN Buffer Layer
Authors: Ishimoto Seiji , Han Dong-Pyo , Yamamoto Kengo , Mano Ryoya , Kamiyama Satoshi , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Iwaya Motoaki , Akasaki Isamu
Published: February 2019

In this study, we compared the device performance of GaInN-based green LEDs grown on c-plane sapphire substrates with a conventional low temperature GaN buffer layer to those with a sputtered-AlN buffer layer. The light output power and leakage current characteristics were significantly improved by just replacing the buffer layer with a sputtered-AlN layer. To understand the origin of the improvement in performance, the electrical and optical properties were compared by means of electro-reflectance spectroscopy, I–V curves, electroluminescence spectra, L–I curves, and internal quantum efficiencies. From the analysis of the results, we concluded that the improvement is mainly due to the mitigation of strain and reduction of the piezoelectric field in the multiple quantum wells active region.
Performance and Control Strategy of Real-Time Simulation of a Three-Phase Solid-State Transformer
Authors: Almaguer Jorge , Cárdenas Víctor , Espinoza Jose , Aganza-Torres Alejandro , González Marcos
Published: February 2019

This paper shows the real-time simulation of a three-stage three-phase solid-state transformer with an Opal OP5607 platform. The simulation model considers the complete electronic full-order circuit for the topology without the use of simplifications, such as average models or equivalent circuits for the coupling transformer and the input and output converters, which may neglect part of the dynamics of interest for the converter design. The simulation is made through an electronic hardware solver (eHS), which can achieve smaller solving times than the regular algorithms, allowing to reach the switching frequency rate for this converters. The simulation model takes the RTE-library which is used for DC-DC converters, with simple arrangements in order to operate with the topology.
Time-Constrained Nature-Inspired Optimization Algorithms for an Efficient Energy Management System in Smart Homes and Buildings
Authors: Ullah Ibrar , Hussain Sajjad
Published: February 2019

This paper proposes two bio-inspired heuristic algorithms, the Moth-Flame Optimization (MFO) algorithm and Genetic Algorithm (GA), for an Energy Management System (EMS) in smart homes and buildings. Their performance in terms of energy cost reduction, minimization of the Peak to Average power Ratio (PAR) and end-user discomfort minimization are analysed and discussed. Then, a hybrid version of GA and MFO, named TG-MFO (Time-constrained Genetic-Moth Flame Optimization), is proposed for achieving the aforementioned objectives. TG-MFO not only hybridizes GA and MFO, but also incorporates time constraints for each appliance to achieve maximum end-user comfort. Different algorithms have been proposed in the literature for energy optimization. However, they have increased end-user frustration in terms of increased waiting time for home appliances to be switched ON. The proposed TG-MFO algorithm is specially designed for nearly-zero end-user discomfort due to scheduling of appliances, keeping in view the timespan of individual appliances. Renewable energy sources and battery storage units are also integrated for achieving maximum end-user benefits. For comparison, five bio-inspired heuristic algorithms, i.e., Genetic Algorithm (GA), Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA), Firefly Algorithm (FA) and Moth-Flame Optimization (MFO), are used to achieve the aforementioned objectives in the residential sector in comparison with TG-MFO. The simulations through MATLAB show that our proposed algorithm has reduced the energy cost up to 32.25% for a single user and 49.96% for thirty users in a residential sector compared to unscheduled load.
Distributed Face Recognition Based on Load Balancing and Dynamic Prediction
Authors: Zou Fangyuan , Li Jing , Min Weidong
Published: February 2019

With the dramatic expansion of large-scale videos, traditional centralized face recognition methods cannot meet the demands of time efficiency and expansibility, and thus distributed face recognition models were proposed. However, the number of tasks at the agent side is always dynamic, and unbalanced allocation will lead to time delay and a sharp increase of CPU utilization. To this end, a new distributed face recognition framework based on load balancing and dynamic prediction is proposed in this paper. The framework consists of a server and multiple agents. When performing face recognition, the server is used to recognize faces, and other operations are performed by the agents. Since the changes of the total number of videos and the number of pedestrians affect the task amount, we perform load balancing with an improved genetic algorithm. To ensure the accuracy of task allocation, we use extreme learning machine to predict the change of tasks. The server then performs task allocation based on the predicted results sent by the agents. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively solve the problem of unbalanced task allocation at the agent side, and meanwhile alleviate time delay and the sharp increase of CPU utilization.
Validation of a Methodology to Analyze the Morphological Parameters in Newly Created Tidal Channels Through a Video Monitoring System
Authors: Agudo Pablo , Sámano María Luisa , Rodríguez Adrián , Crespo Jorge , Masías Manuel , Dzul Luis , Gracia Santos
Published: February 2019

A video monitoring system has been used in order to track the morphology of an estuary located in La Rabia, due to the high time-space resolution provided by this system. Moreover, the data collection infrastructure allows us to extract relevant information at a relatively low cost. The methodology used to make the image capture and its post-processing procedure, permitted the detection and monitoring of a new tidal channel appearance as well as its evolution in width until it achieved equilibrium. During the course towards this balance, we could observe the characteristic phenomena for this type of process such as incisional narrowing and increase in width.
Biosensor Applications of Electrodeposited Nanostructures
Authors: Stine Keith J.
Published: February 2019

The development of biosensors for a range of analytes from small molecules to proteins to oligonucleotides is an intensely active field. Detection methods based on electrochemistry or on localized surface plasmon responses have advanced through using nanostructured electrodes prepared by electrodeposition, which is capable of preparing a wide range of different structures. Supported nanoparticles can be prepared by electrodeposition through applying fixed potentials, cycling potentials, and fixed current methods. Nanoparticle sizes, shapes, and surface densities can be controlled, and regular structures can be prepared by electrodeposition through templates. The incorporation of multiple nanomaterials into composite films can take advantage of the superior and potentially synergistic properties of each component. Nanostructured electrodes can provide supports for enzymes, antibodies, or oligonucleotides for creating sensors against many targets in areas such as genomic analysis, the detection of protein antigens, or the detection of small molecule metabolites. Detection can also be performed using electrochemical methods, and the nanostructured electrodes can greatly enhance electrochemical responses by carefully designed schemes. Biosensors based on electrodeposited nanostructures can contribute to the advancement of many goals in bioanalytical and clinical chemistry.
Dynamic Rating of Three-Core XLPE Submarine Cables for Offshore Wind Farms
Authors: Nielsen Thomas V. M. , Jakobsen Simon , Savaghebi Mehdi
Published: February 2019

This article aims to determine the most suitable cross-sectional area for a high voltage alternating current (HVAC) submarine cable in the design phase of new projects. A thermal ladder network method (LNM) was used to analyse the thermal behaviour in the centre of the conductor as the hottest spot of the cable. On the basis of the calculated cable parameters and a thermal cable analysis of transient conditions applied by a step function with a time duration greater than 1 h, this article proposes a method for a dynamic rating of submarine cables. The dynamic rating is accomplished through an iterative process. The method was tested with a MATLAB simulation and validated in comparison with a finite element method (FEM)-based approach.
Electrically Driven Micro- and Nano-Scale Semiconductor Light Sources
Authors: No You-Shin
Published: February 2019

Emerging optical technology capable of addressing the limits in modern electronics must incorporate unique solutions to bring about a revolution in high-speed, on-chip data communication and information processing. Among the possible optical devices that can be developed, the electrically driven, ultrasmall semiconductor light source is the most essential element for a compact, power-efficient photonic integrated circuit. In this review, we cover the recent development of the electrically driven light-emitting devices based on various micro- and nano-scale semiconductor optical cavities. We also discuss the recent advances in the integration of these light sources with passive photonic circuits.
Effect of Slag Particle Size on Fracture Toughness of Concrete
Authors: Huang Chung-Ho , Wu Chung-Hao , Lin Shu-Ken , Yen Tsong
Published: February 2019

The effects of particle size of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) on the fracture energy, critical stress intensity, and strength of concrete are experimentally studied. Three fineness levels of GGBS of 4000, 5000, 6000 cm2/g were used. In addition to the control mixture without slag, two slag replacement levels of 20% and 40% by weight of the cementitious material were selected for preparing the concrete mixtures. The control mixture was designed to have a target compressive strength at 28 days of 62 MPa, while the water to cementitious material ratio was selected as 0.35 for all mixtures. Test results indicate that using finer slag in concrete may improve the filling effect and the reactivity of slag, resulting in a larger strength enhancement. The compressive strength of slag concrete was found to increase in conjunction with the fineness level of the slag presented in the mixture. Use of finer slag presents a beneficial effect on the fracture energy (GF) of concrete, even at an early age, and attains a higher increment of GF at later age (56 days). This implicates that the finer slag can have a unique effect on the enhancement of the fracture resistance of concrete. The test results of the critical stress intensity factor (KSIC) of the slag concretes have a similar tendency as that of the fracture energy, indicating that the finer slag may present an increase in the fracture toughness of concrete.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis by Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) of Urine
Authors: Moisoiu Vlad , Socaciu Andreea , Stefancu Andrei , Iancu Stefania D. , Boros Imre , Alecsa Cristian D. , Rachieriu Claudiu , Chiorean Angelica R. , Eniu Daniela , Leopold Nicolae , Socaciu Carmen , Eniu Dan T.
Published: February 2019

Background: There is an ongoing research for breast cancer diagnostic tools that are cheaper, more accurate and more convenient than mammography. Methods: In this study, we employed surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for analysing urine from n = 53 breast cancer patients and n = 22 controls, with the aim of discriminating between the two groups using multivariate data analysis techniques such as principal component analysis—linear discriminant analysis (PCA-LDA). The SERS spectra were acquired using silver nanoparticles synthesized by reduction with hydroxylamine hydrochloride, which were additionally activated with Ca2+ 10−4 M. Results: The addition of Ca(NO3)2 10−4 M promoted the specific adsorption to the metal surface of the anionic purine metabolites such as uric acid, xanthine and hypoxanthine. Moreover, the SERS spectra of urine were acquired without any filtering or processing step for removing protein traces and other contaminants. Using PCA-LDA, the SERS spectra of urine from breast cancer patients were classified with a sensitivity of 81%, a specificity of 95% and an overall accuracy of 88%. Conclusion: The results of this preliminary study contribute to the translation of SERS in the clinical setting and highlight the potential of SERS as a novel screening strategy for breast cancer.
A Novel CAD Tool for Electric Educational Diagrams
Authors: Ruiz Patricia , Dorronsoro Bernabé
Published: February 2019

Computer-aided design (CAD) is a technological revolution, very powerful and with large applicability to problem solving. It is essential in many different disciplines ranging from architecture to education, medicine, physics, or gaming. In this work, we propose a novel CAD tool, called CADDi, to assist in the design of electric diagrams in the educational context. We are applying the theory of formal languages to create WDLang, an easy-to-use, highly expressive, unequivocal, and correct programming language for designing electric circuits. This programming language is the cornerstone of CADDi, which automatically generates the equivalent ladder diagram (explains the circuit operation) to the programmed circuit, offering additional features that allow analysis of its functionality in an interactive way. It also offers a graphical interface to directly design ladder diagrams, or to modify the automatically generated ones. The existing electrical CAD tools are either very simple, e.g., for creating good-looking diagrams with no functionality, or too complex, for professional systems design. CADDi is extremely useful for learning purposes. It assists users on how to generate ladder diagrams, and on understanding the behavior of electrical circuits. Additionally, it serves as an assessment tool for self-evaluation in the translation from wiring diagrams to ladder ones. In order to make CADDi highly accessible, it was implemented as a web page.
Filtration Performance Characteristics of Sticky Aerosol Using Calcium Hydroxide
Authors: Lee Jae-Rang , Hasolli Naim , Jeon Seong-Min , Lee Kang-San , Gang Jun-Hyeok , Kim Kwang-Deuk , Lee Kwan-Young , Park Young-Ok
Published: February 2019

This study examined the performance of removing aerosol upon a flow rate variable by agglomerating sticky aerosol with calcium hydroxide and removing cohesive aerosol through an experimental apparatus, simulating an actual painting booth. As a result of examining the performance of the filter by fixing the paint spray quantity, the calcium hydroxide input and the filtration area under variable flow rates of 5, 10, and 15 Nm3/min, we confirmed that the filter performance has long average aerosol removing intervals at the 5 Nm3/min flow rate. At the 5 Nm3/min flow rate, there is a low residual pressure drop trend and high fractional collection efficiency, and a high level of total collection efficiency is maintained at 99.42%. When the flow rate is less than 5 Nm3/min, the aerosol settling and experimentation was impossible. With this research, the optimal conditions for the use of sticky aerosol have been examined.
Saturated Fatty Acid Activates T Cell Inflammation Through a Nicotinamide Nucleotide Transhydrogenase (NNT)-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: McCambridge Grace , Agrawal Madhur , Keady Alanna , Kern Philip A. , Hasturk Hatice , Nikolajczyk Barbara S. , Bharath Leena P.
Published: February 2019

Circulating fatty acids (FAs) increase with obesity and can drive mitochondrial damage and inflammation. Nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (NNT) is a mitochondrial protein that positively regulates nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), a key mediator of energy transduction and redox homeostasis. The role that NNT-regulated bioenergetics play in the inflammatory response of immune cells in obesity is untested. Our objective was to determine how free fatty acids (FFAs) regulate inflammation through impacts on mitochondria and redox homeostasis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). PBMCs from lean subjects were activated with a T cell-specific stimulus in the presence or absence of generally pro-inflammatory palmitate and/or non-inflammatory oleate. Palmitate decreased immune cell expression of NNT, NADPH, and anti-oxidant glutathione, but increased reactive oxygen and proinflammatory Th17 cytokines. Oleate had no effect on these outcomes. Genetic inhibition of NNT recapitulated the effects of palmitate. PBMCs from obese (BMI >30) compared to lean subjects had lower NNT and glutathione expression, and higher Th17 cytokine expression, none of which were changed by exogenous palmitate. Our data identify NNT as a palmitate-regulated rheostat of redox balance that regulates immune cell function in obesity and suggest that dietary or therapeutic strategies aimed at increasing NNT expression may restore redox balance to ameliorate obesity-associated inflammation.
Mechanisms of Spindle Positioning: Lessons from Worms and Mammalian Cells
Authors: Kotak Sachin
Published: February 2019

Proper positioning of the mitotic spindle is fundamental for specifying the site for cleavage furrow, and thus regulates the appropriate sizes and accurate distribution of the cell fate determinants in the resulting daughter cells during development and in the stem cells. The past couple of years have witnessed tremendous work accomplished in the area of spindle positioning, and this has led to the emergence of a working model unravelling in-depth mechanistic insight of the underlying process orchestrating spindle positioning. It is evident now that the correct positioning of the mitotic spindle is not only guided by the chemical cues (protein–protein interactions) but also influenced by the physical nature of the cellular environment. In metazoans, the key players that regulate proper spindle positioning are the actin-rich cell cortex and associated proteins, the ternary complex (Gα/GPR-1/2/LIN-5 in Caenorhabditis elegans, Gαi/Pins/Mud in Drosophila and Gαi1-3/LGN/NuMA in humans), minus-end-directed motor protein dynein and the cortical machinery containing myosin. In this review, I will mainly discuss how the abovementioned components precisely and spatiotemporally regulate spindle positioning by sensing the physicochemical environment for execution of flawless mitosis.
Identification of Novel HLA Class II-Restricted Neoantigens Derived from Driver Mutations
Authors: Iiizumi Susumu , Ohtake Junya , Murakami Naoko , Kouro Taku , Kawahara Mamoru , Isoda Fumiko , Hamana Hiroshi , Kishi Hiroyuki , Nakamura Norihiro , Sasada Tetsuro
Published: February 2019

Neoantigens derived from tumor-specific genetic mutations might be suitable targets for cancer immunotherapy because of their high immunogenicity. In the current study, we evaluated the immunogenicity of 10 driver mutations that are frequently expressed in various cancers using peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors (n = 25). Of the 10 synthetic peptides (27-mer) derived from these mutations, the six peptides from KRAS-G12D, KRAS-G12R, KRAS-G13D, NRAS-Q61R, PIK3CA-H1047R, and C-Kit-D816V induced T cell responses, suggesting that frequent driver mutations are not always less immunogenic. In particular, immune responses to PIK3CA-H1047R, C-Kit-D816V, KRAS-G13D, and NRAS-Q61R were observed in more than 10% of the donors. All six peptides induced human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II-restricted CD4+ T cell responses; notably, PIK3CA-H1047R contained at least two different CD4+ T cell epitopes restricted to different HLA class II alleles. In addition, PIK3CA-H1047R and C-Kit-D816V induced antigen-specific CD8+ T cells as well, indicating that they might contain both HLA class I- and class II-restricted epitopes. Since the identified neoantigens might be shared by patients with various types of cancers and are not easily lost due to immune escape, they have the potential to be promising off-the-shelf cancer immunotherapy targets in patients with the corresponding mutations.
Hierarchical ZSM-5 Zeolite with Enhanced Catalytic Activity for Alkylation of Phenol with Tert-Butanol
Authors: Xu Ling , Wang Fan , Feng Zhiqiang , Liu Zongrui , Guan Jingqi
Published: February 2019

Using polyethylene glycol as a mesoporous soft template, a series of hierarchically porous ZSM-5 zeolites were prepared. X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption, and transmission electron microscopy results demonstrated that the resultant materials contained a micro–mesoporous structure. Since the existence of mesoporous structure favors the diffusion of large molecular reactants and products, the phenol conversion and selectivity to 2,4-Di-TBP on the hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite can be improved for the alkylation of phenol with tert-butanol.
Selective Catalytic Reduction of Nitric Oxide with Propylene over Fe/Beta Catalysts Under Lean-Burn Conditions
Authors: Zhou Hao , Ge Mengyao , Zhao Huishuang , Wu Shiguo , Li Mengyu , Su Yaxin
Published: February 2019

Fe/Beta catalysts were used for the selective catalytic reduction of nitric oxide with propylene (C3H6-SCR) under lean-burn conditions, which were prepared by liquid ion-exchange (LIE), solid-state ion-exchange (SIE), and incipient wet-impregnation (IWI) methods. The iron species on Fe/Beta were characterized and identified by a combination of several characterization techniques. The results showed preparation methods had a significant influence on the composition and distribution of iron species, LIE method inclined to produce more isolated Fe3+ ions at ion-exchanged sites than IWI and SIE method. C3H6-SCR activity tests demonstrated Fe/Beta(LIE) possessed remarkable catalytic activity and N2 selectivity at temperature 300–450 °C. Kinetic studies of C3H6-SCR reaction suggested that isolated Fe3+ species were more active for NO reduction, whereas Fe2O3 nanoparticles enhanced the hydrocarbon combustion in excess of oxygen. According to the results of in situ DRIFTS, more isolated Fe3+ sites on Fe/Beta(LIE) would promote the formation of the key intermediates, i.e., NO2 adspecies and formate species, then led to the superior C3H6-SCR activity. The slight decrease of SCR activity after hydrothermal aging of Fe/Beta(LIE) catalyst might be due to the migration of isolated Fe3+ ions into oligomeric clusters and/or Fe2O3 nanoparticles.
Isolation of a Bacillus Aryabhattai Strain for the Resolution of (R, S)-Ethyl Indoline-2-Carboxylate to Produce (S)-Indoline-2-Carboxylic Acid
Authors: Zhang Yinjun , Chen Jialin , Chen Changsheng , Wu Shijin
Published: February 2019

The strain screened from sludge can selectively hydrolyze (S)-ethyl indoline-2-carboxylate to produce (S)-indoline-2-carboxylic acid. It was identified as the Bacillus aryabhattai strain based on its morphology, metabolism, and 16S rDNA sequence analysis. Glucose and yeast powder were used as the best carbon and nitrogen sources to cultured cells with an initial pH of seven. Subsequently, we optimized the key parameters for selective hydrolysis. Finally, when the substrate concentration had reached 3%, with a 35 °C water bath, a pH of seven, and a speed of 600 rpm, the e.e.p value attained 96% with a 33% yield. Thus, we had developed a new method for producing (S)-indoline-2-carboxylic acid that used whole microbial cells as the biocatalyst.
VAS2870 Inhibits Histamine-Induced Calcium Signaling and vWF Secretion in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
Authors: Avdonin Pavel V. , Rybakova Elena Yu. , Avdonin Piotr P. , Trufanov Sergei K. , Mironova Galina Yu. , Tsitrina Alexandra A. , Goncharov Nikolay V.
Published: February 2019

In this study, we investigated the effects of NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX) inhibitor VAS2870 (3-benzyl-7-(2-benzoxazolyl)thio-1,2,3-triazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine) on the histamine-induced elevation of free cytoplasmic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) and the secretion of von Willebrand factor (vWF) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and on relaxation of rat aorta in response to histamine. At 10 μM concentration, VAS2870 suppressed the [Ca2+]i rise induced by histamine. Inhibition was not competitive, with IC50 3.64 and 3.22 μM at 1 and 100 μM concentrations of histamine, respectively. There was no inhibition of [Ca2+]i elevation by VAS2870 in HUVECs in response to the agonist of type 1 protease-activated receptor SFLLRN. VAS2870 attenuated histamine-induced secretion of vWF and did not inhibit basal secretion. VAS2870 did not change the degree of histamine-induced relaxation of rat aortic rings constricted by norepinephrine. We suggest that NOX inhibitors might be used as a tool for preventing thrombosis induced by histamine release from mast cells without affecting vasorelaxation.
AQP1 and AQP4 Contribution to Cerebrospinal Fluid Homeostasis
Authors: Trillo-Contreras José Luis , Toledo-Aral Juan José , Echevarría Miriam , Villadiego Javier
Published: February 2019

Aquaporin 1 (AQP1), expressed in epithelial cells of the choroid plexus, and aquaporin 4 (AQP4) present in ependymal cells and glia limitants have been proposed to play a significant role in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production and homeostasis. However, the specific contribution of each water channel to these functions remains unknown, being a subject of debate during the last years. Here, we analyzed in detail how AQP1 and AQP4 participate in different aspects of the CSF homeostasis such as the load and drainage of ventricles, and further explored if these proteins play a role in the ventricular compliance. To do that, we carried out records of intraventricular pressure and CSF outflow, and evaluated ventricular volume by magnetic resonance imaging in AQP1−/−, AQP4−/−, double AQP1−/−-AQP4−/− knock out and wild type mice controls. The analysis performed clearly showed that both AQPs have a significant participation in the CSF production, and additionally revealed that the double AQP1-AQP4 mutation alters the CSF drainage and the ventricular compliance. The data reported here indicate a significant extra-choroidal CSF formation mediated by AQP4, supporting the idea of an important and constant CSF production/absorption process, sustained by efflux/influx of water between brain capillaries and interstitial fluid. Moreover, our results suggest the participation of AQPs in structural functions also related with CSF homeostasis such as the distensibility capacity of the ventricular system.
Histone Modifications and the Maintenance of Telomere Integrity
Authors: Jezek Meagan , Green Erin
Published: February 2019

Telomeres, the nucleoprotein structures at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes, play an integral role in protecting linear DNA from degradation. Dysregulation of telomeres can result in genomic instability and has been implicated in increased rates of cellular senescence and many diseases, including cancer. The integrity of telomeres is maintained by a coordinated network of proteins and RNAs, such as the telomerase holoenzyme and protective proteins that prevent the recognition of the telomere ends as a DNA double-strand breaks. The structure of chromatin at telomeres and within adjacent subtelomeres has been implicated in telomere maintenance pathways in model systems and humans. Specific post-translational modifications of histones, including methylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination, have been shown to be necessary for maintaining a chromatin environment that promotes telomere integrity. Here we review the current knowledge regarding the role of histone modifications in maintaining telomeric and subtelomeric chromatin, discuss the implications of histone modification marks as they relate to human disease, and highlight key areas for future research.
Sleep in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Morse Anne Marie , Bender Evin
Published: February 2019

Hospitalized patients frequently have disordered and poor-quality sleep due to a variety of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. These include frequent nighttime intrusions, insomnia related to pain and unfamiliar environments, dark conditions during the day with loss of natural light, and disruption of the natural sleep cycle due to illness. Sleep wake disturbances can result in a deleterious consequence on physical, emotional, and cognitive status, which may impact patient satisfaction, clinical recovery, and hospital length of stay. Despite this, clinicians frequently fail to document sleep disturbances and are generally unaware of the best practices to improve sleep quality in the hospital. A PubMed search was conducted using the terms: (“sleep and hospitalized patients”) and (“sleep and hospitalization”) to review the published data on the topic of sleep in hospitalized medical patients. The search was limited to English-language articles published between 2000 and 2018. Subsequent PubMed searches were performed to clarify the data described in the initial search, including the terms “hospital sleep protocols,” “hospitalized patients sleep documentation,” and “hospitalized patients sleep quality”. The purpose of this review is to discuss sleep disturbances in hospitalized patients with a focus on causes of sleep disturbance, the effect of poor-quality sleep, high risk populations, considerations for surveillance and prevention, and pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options for treatment.
Alkenones, a Renewably Sourced, Biobased Wax as an SPF Booster for Organic Sunscreens
Authors: Huynh An , Abou-Dahech Mariam S. , Reddy Christopher M. , O’Neil Gregory W. , Chandler Mark , Baki Gabriella
Published: February 2019

Sun exposure can affect the skin in various ways leading to short- and long-term consequences. Waxes are often used to optimize the rheological behavior of products and provide an even sunscreen film on the skin, which can boost the sun protection factor (SPF) of ultraviolet (UV) filters. In this study, a biobased wax, alkenones, sourced from commercially available and sustainable microalgae was evaluated as an SPF booster in sunscreens. Thirty-five sunscreens were formulated using three waxes and four organic liquid UV filters. Products were tested for pH, viscosity, spreadability, stability, as well as in vitro SPF and water resistance. Alkenones’ in vitro SPF boosting capacity was similar to beeswax and cetyl alcohol with three “reef-safe” UV filters. None of the waxes used provided significant water resistance, however, using film-former water resistance could be built into the products. A key finding is that alkenones increased the in vitro SPF without increasing apparent viscosity. All products had a skin-compatible pH and they all remained stable at 25 °C for 10 weeks. Overall, the alkenones’ performance was comparable to those of the comparator waxes. Our in vitro results indicate that alkenones offer a sustainable, biobased, non-animal derived choice as an SPF booster for organic sunscreens.