bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Necropolis under a tumulus at Veprcani: Representative case of using sacred places during several periods in the past
Authors: Mitkoski Aleksandar , Bulatovic Aleksandar , Mikic Ilija
Published: January 2017

Six Late Roman graves and one prehistoric burial have been discovered under a
tumulus in the course of investigations. The tumulus is around 11meters in
diameter and around 1 meter high and is situated at Veprcani, in the
mountainous area of Mariovo in south Macedonia. The graves mostly contained
cists of broken stones or slabs covered with stone slabs, one grave was
carved into the rock and one consisted of a dislocated grave association. One
prehistoric burial containing the remains of a cremated individual and grave
goods was encountered under a small stone mound to the south of tumulus.
Regarding the grave goods, mortuary practice and funerary rituals of the
original tumulus as well as the prehistoric burials, and material from the
mound have been dated to the Ha A period, while the antique graves were dated
to the 3rd-4th century.
Lahar at Kali Konto after the 2014 Eruption of Kelud Volcano, East Java: Impacts and Risk
Authors: Dibyosaputro Suprapto , Dipayana Gilang Arya , Nugraha Henky , Pratiwi Kartika , Valeda Hogy Prima
Published: January 2017

Five days after the Kelud Volcano eruption of 13 February 2014, lahar occurred in several channels of the Volcano. Rainfall with intensity of 26 mm/hour mobilized pyroclastic material from the upper slopes of Kelud Volcano down the channel during 3.5 hour. Using this eruption as a case study, the aims of this paper are (1) to study the geomorphic impact of lahars and (2) to study future hazards and risks due to the potential of lahar source material and lahar repose area. To reach these two goals, we use both primary and secondary data. The primary data comprises an integration of remote sensing, GIS approach, and fieldwork control, in order to investigate the geomorphic impacts of lahars. Secondary data were collected through interviews and statistical approach in villages, in order to determine their perception to the risk of lahar. Morphogenic processes such as riverbank erosion, channel-widening and riverbed downcutting took an important role in generating the impact of lahar in Kali Konto. The medial and distal areas were affected more largely affected than the proximal area. This major impacts have been river widening and buried crop field inside of the channel. This result allowed us to provide recommendation to population living along those areas at risk, in order to be prepared against the eventuality of potentially large and destructive lahars.
Discrimination of Mangrove Ecosystem Objects on the Visible Spectrum Using Spectroradiometer HR-1024
Authors: Arfan Amal
Published: January 2017

The study was conducted to determine whether the vegetation in the mangrove ecosystem, can be contrasted with another objectt, using Spectroradiometer HR-1024. The data used is data visible spectrum(400-700 nm)  which resulted in 204 bands. The analysis used is the integrated analysis with three levels. First, using ANOVA to determine significant differences in spectral reflectance between vegetation with water, wet soil and dry soil. Second, using Step wise Canonical Discriminant Analysis to identify the most sensitive band for discrimination reflection spectrum. This analysis which resulted in six bands are considered practical to distinguish vegetation with another object namely  401.5 nm, 416.9 nm, 508.2 nm, 599.3 nm, 660.3nm and 689.2 nm. Third using the Jeffries-Matusita separability index which resulted in the separation index of mangrove vegetation, water, wet soil and dry soil is 1.414.
Geological Identification of Seismic Source at Opak Fault Based on Stratigraphic Sections of the Southern Mountains
Authors: Pandita Hita , Sukartono Sukartono , Isjudarto Agustinus
Published: January 2017

Earthquake is one of the unpredicted natural disasters on our earth. Despite of the absence of high-accuracy method to precisely predict the occurrence of earthquake, numerous studies have been carried out by seismologists to find it. One of the efforts to address the vulnerability of a region to earthquakes is by recognizing the type of rock as the source of the earthquake. Opak Fault is an active fault which was thought to be the source of earthquakes in Yogyakarta and adjacent areas. This study aimed to determine the seismic source types of rocks in Yogyakarta and adjacent areas. The methods were by measuring stratigraphic sections and the layer thickness in the western part of Southern Mountains. Field study was done in 6 (six) research sites. Results of stratigraphic measurement indicated the sedimentary rocks in the Southern Mountains was 3.823 km in thick, while the bedrock was more than 1.042 km in thick. Based on the result, the rock types as the seismic source were thought to originate from the continental crust rocks formed of granite and metamorphic complex.
Democracy in Pakistan: Problems and Prospects in Making Informed Choices
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Khattak Muqaddas
Published: January 2017

Democracy is a form of government which supports extensive participation of people in government and also promotes the views of citizens for the smooth functioning of society. The form of Democracy in Pakistan is one of the best and unique democracies in the world but unfortunately its future is bleak due to the non observance of what is actually the true essence of democracy, the informed choices. The main reasons that informed choices are not made is due to the unawareness of the people about the form of democracy in Pakistan, flawed political culture, and legal pluralism.Int. J. Soc. Sc. Manage. Vol. 4, Issue-1: 9-11
Online Shopping Purchase Patterns with Special Reference to Demographic and Informational Influence
Authors: Rani T. Suchitra , Sripathi Nishchala
Published: January 2017

While many Indian feel good to see, touch and go round the retail outlets for shopping but however, Internet has transformed many aspects of life. For some services like booking ticket and travel plans this has definitely become the most preferred source of purchase due to convenience. This paper is an attempt to bring out different aspects of this trend of online buying behavior which has picked up since almost 15 years, it highlight the factors influencing the online buying decision along with the negative factors which deter the consumer to go online purchase. Further, the study focuses on how the demographic factors influence the online buying decision along with the informational sources that influence the choice of websites. From the study it was found that clothes, footwear and accessories are the most purchase online, while the factors that interests the online shopper was found to be discounts and the negative motivation was due to poor quality of product and fake product.Int. J. Soc. Sc. Manage. Vol. 4, Issue-1: 38-43
Effects of Moringa oleifera Lam. and Azadirachta indica A. Juss. leaf extract in treatment of tannery effluent
Authors: Sinha Sankar Narayan , Paul Dipak , Biswas Karabi
Published: January 2017

The effect of leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera and Azadirachta indica using ethanol as solvent on tannery waste water treatment was investigated for a period of five days and their phytochemical constituents were analyzed. All the extracts were found to be efficient in the clarification and sedimentation of total solids in the tannery waste water sample. On the 5th day, sample treated with 10 ml of extract showed higher reduction of electrical conductivity, pH, chloride, sulfate along with dissolved oxygen. The significant reduction of these pollution indicating parameters of the tannery effluent indicated its high applicability to treat the tannery wastes along with other waste water treatment in near future. This is the first report of decontamination of tannery waste water by Azadirachta indica leaf extract. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
Herpetofaunal diversity in Manaslu Conservation Area, Nepal
Authors: Pokhrel Ganesh Kumar , Thakuri Sudeep
Published: January 2017

Herpetofauna is the least studied subject in the Nepal Himalaya. Most of the studies in wildlife are focused on mammals and birds. This paper presents the results of the herpetofauna survey in Manaslu Conservation Area in the Central Nepal, conducted with the aim of establishing the baseline on herpetofauna species diversity. The study recorded 16 species of herpetofauna, indicating a highly potential abundance of herpetofauna in the region. The study is first of its kind in establishing the baseline. The information, thus, obtained can be useful for implementing a biodiversity monitoring activities, and current and future conservation efforts. The study also underlines a need of an extensive study of herpetofauna in this region.  This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
Survey of Future Railroad Operations and the Role of Automation
Authors: Brooks James D. , Groshong Hannah , Liu Andrew , Houpt Paul , Oman Chuck
Published: January 2017

In the past decade, freight rail automation systems have made significant advances. The objective of this work was to elicit ideas from the railroad industry about future automation systems and their impact on future operating configurations (such as the roles of human operators). A Dephi survey was administered in two rounds to industry leaders (Class I railroad managers and General Electric transportation senior engineers). The industry was generally found to be open to new operating configurations and to see increasing automation technology as key to achieving future benefits. However, there are significant concerns around training, deskilling, and the current development process. Several solutions to each of these problems were ranked by participants in order of perceived effectiveness. The implications for the development of rail technology and opportunities for future research are discussed.
Agent-Based Model of Navigable Inland Waterway Tow Operation Procedures
Authors: Nelson Katherine S. , Camp Janey V. , Philip Craig E. , Abkowitz Mark D.
Published: January 2017

Transportation modeling within the context of extreme weather events induced by climate change is critical to understand and improve the resilience of transport systems as the world moves further into the 21st century. Among transportation modes, navigable inland waterways in particular face severe challenges to their future reliability as a result of extreme weather events. The economic implications of inland waterway operational efficiencies on commercial shipping have been studied in detail for several decades. Less well understood, however, are the effects of tow operation procedures enacted during adverse river conditions that have resulted from extreme weather events. This paper describes a model of a waterway segment that simulates stakeholder decision making and tow operator behavior to provide stakeholders with insights into the possible benefits of waterway action plans as operational guidance documents. Simulations run for a test area of the navigable inland waterway system indicated that operational procedures recommended in waterway action plans might have a significant impact on waterway operational efficiencies, which suggests that the model may be a useful decision-support tool for waterway stakeholders.
Interleukin-33, an interleukin-1 like cytokine accelerates cell migration in IEC-6 cells
Authors: Islam Md Shafiqul , Hori Masatoshi , Ozaki Hiroshi
Published: January 2017

Interlukin-33 (IL-33) is a novel cytokine of the IL-1 superfamily that is expressed mainly in stromal cells, such as epithelial and endothelial cells. It is believed to be involved in inflammation and carcinogenesis. Recently we have reported that IL-33 is up regulated in azoxymethane-dextran sulfate sodium salt (AOM/DSS)- induced in colitis in mice. In this study we have investigated the biological activity of IL-33 in cells migration in IEC-6 epithelial cells. Our wound healing assay demonstrated that IL-33 significantly enhanced cell migration towards the wound edges compared with the untreated control cells. Trans-well migration assay in presence of cells culture and wound stimulation in the lower chamber, IL-33 exhibited significant chemoattractant activity for the cells migration. On the other hand, in absence of cells culture and wound stimulation in the lower chamber, IL-33 neither produced remarkable chemokine, nor chemoattractant activity for the cells migration. These findings indicate that IL-33 interacts with wound-stimulated soluble cellular product(s) in the lower chamber to accelerate cell migration.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. December 2016, 2(4): 577-581
Study of traditional fish drying activities at Atrai upazilla of Naogaon district in Bangladesh
Authors: Dey Shishir Kumar , Hossain Md Rayhan , Flowra Fawzia Adib , Sultana Sayeeda , Akter Rubia
Published: January 2017

The investigation was conducted on traditional fish drying activities of the Atrai upazila under Naogaon district from July 2011 to December 2011. There was only one fish drying point was found in study area. The observed fish drying points are seasonal (from July to December). There are sixteen fish species were identified for drying among study area. Most of the raw fish collect from local market or Atria River. Transportation of raw fish was done by non-mechanized van or by head load of the labour. Price of the raw fish varied according to the species, size and availability. It is observed that September-October peak period for drying. The rate of mixing salt in the study area was found as 1kg salt for 12 kg of raw fish. At normal weather condition drying duration recorded to be varied from 2-5 days depend on the size of the raw fish. Plastic, jute sack and sometimes bamboo baskets were used for packaging purpose. The marketing channel is too small here. It was found that all the dried fish product in study areas, carried to the Sayadpur dry fish wholesale market in Nilphamary district directly by producers. The annual production of dried fish range 6000-8000 Kg. The highest price per kg dried fish was found as 400-550 Tk (Baim) and the lowest was found as 90-120 Tk (Punti, Darkina, Colisa). The cost benefit ratio for fish drying activities of study area was 1:0.671. The dry fish trader faced some problem such as insufficient credit, lack of raw fish insect infestation, storage and marketing facilities. From the present study some recommendations were also formulated to minimize the problem.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. December 2016, 2(4): 646-655
Water requirement analysis of three strawberry cultivars by using bucket-type lysimeter and its comparative study
Authors: Islam Md Hafizul , Haq Md Erfanul , Paul Prajna Paramita , Paul Amitave , Hoque Ziaul
Published: January 2017

An experiment was carried out from November, 2014 to February, 2015 at Dinajpur, Bangladesh to quantify the total water requirement of Strawberry for three indigenous cultivars RU-1, RU-2 and RU-3by using 12'' × 11.5'' Bucket-Type Lysimeter. Water requirement in zero evaporation condition for RU-1, RU-2 and RU-3 were 86.25 ± 0.23, 49.22 ± 0.31 and 73.42 ± 0.42mm respectively, which were significantly different (p< 0.01). After adding field evaporation total water requirement RU-1, RU-2 and RU-3 were 351.45 ± 0.23, 324.42 ± 0.31 and 338.61 ± 0.42mm respectively.ET0(Potential evapotranspiration)value ranged between3.21-4.56 (mm/day) while seasonal ET0 was approximately 457 (mm/season).ETc (Evapotranspiration) value measured by using Kc (Crop coefficient) value and equations provided by FAO, (2016a, b) viz. 324.24 (mm/season). As plant only uses less than 1% of its total water uptake for metabolic use, Crop water requirement (CWR) can be easily represented by ETc. However our CWR value is in line with the theoretical ETc which clearly indicates level of accuracy. Therefore, it is highly recommendable for the local Commercial Strawberry growers to get robust yield.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. December 2016, 2(4): 672-677
Performance of apricot varieties/genotypes in north western Himalayan region of India
Authors: Kumar Dinesh , Singh DB , Srivastava KK , Singh SR , Zargar KA
Published: January 2017

A long term experiment (2010-11 to 2014-15) was performed to evaluate the morphological and qualitative traits of apricot varieties/genotypes under north western Himalayan region of India. There were ten varieties/genotypes (CITH-Apricot-01, CITH-Apricot-02, CITH-Apricot-03, Communis, Erani, Afghani, Balcota, CITH-Apricot-09, Chinese apricot, Tokpopa Nimu ) were evaluated under RCBD with three replications. The results of five year pooled data indicated that maximum average Trunk Cross Sectional Area (TCSA) (168.03 cm2) was recorded in the variety Communis. Maximum fruit weight (80.03 g) and yield (113.87 kg/tree) were recorded in CITH-Apricot-01. The productivity efficiency (1.21 kg cm-2 TCSA) was noted in CITH-Apricot-02. The fruit stone ratio 21.62 was recorded in Afghani variety. The highest TSS (25.070 Brix) was estimated in CITH-Apricot-09. Acidity was noticed maximum in the variety Chinese apricot. The total sugar and non reducing sugar were manifested maximum in the apricot genotype Tokpopa Nimu and reducing sugar (8.9%) was recorded in CITH-Apricot-09 under the north western Himalayan region of India.SAARC J. Agri., 14(2): 107-116 (2016)
An analysis of consumer preferences for bed and breakfast in the eco-agritourism activities
Authors: Arumugam S , Govindasamy R , Vellangany I
Published: January 2017

This study evaluatesthe socio-economic demographic, as well as the preferences and behavioral characteristics of consumers who participate in bed and breakfast agritourism activity. The results from the logit model indicate that those who consumed a wider variety of fruits in the past 5 years, those who learn about agritourism from sign at market, those who consider that the facility at agritourism sites are important, those who have children under the age of 17, those who are retired from the job, and whose income range between $60,000 to $79,000 are more likely to be willing to participate in the bed and breakfast agritourism activity. However, those who learn about agritourism from newspapers, those who have two year collage education, male, homemakers, and whose income range from $20, 000 to $39,000 are less likely to be participate in bed and breakfast agritourism activity in Mid-Atlantic Region.SAARC J. Agri., 14(2): 162-173 (2016)
Radiative Entropy Production along the Paludification Gradient in the Southern Taiga
Authors: Kuricheva Olga , Mamkin Vadim , Sandlersky Robert , Puzachenko Juriy , Varlagin Andrej , Kurbatova Juliya
Published: January 2017

Entropy production (σ) is a measure of ecosystem and landscape stability in a changing environment. We calculated the σ in the radiation balance for a well-drained spruce forest, a paludified spruce forest, and a bog in the southern taiga of the European part of Russia using long-term meteorological data. Though radiative σ depends both on surface temperature and absorbed radiation, the radiation effect in boreal ecosystems is much more important than the temperature effect. The dynamic of the incoming solar radiation was the main driver of the diurnal, seasonal, and intra-annual courses of σ for all ecosystems; the difference in ecosystem albedo was the second most important factor, responsible for seven-eighths of the difference in σ between the bog and forest in a warm period. Despite the higher productivity and the complex structure of the well-drained forest, the dynamics and sums of σ in two forests were very similar. Summer droughts had no influence on the albedo and σ efficiency of forests, demonstrating high self-regulation of the taiga forest ecosystems. On the contrary, a decreasing water supply significantly elevated the albedo and lowered the σ in bog. Bogs, being non-steady ecosystems, demonstrate unique thermodynamic behavior, which is fluctuant and strongly dependent on the moisture supply. Paludification of territories may result in increasing instability of the energy balance and entropy production in the landscape of the southern taiga.
Estimation of Hourly, Daily and Monthly Global Solar Radiation on Inclined Surfaces: Models Re-Visited
Authors: Mousavi Maleki Seyed , Hizam H. , Gomes Chandima
Published: January 2017

Global solar radiation is generally measured on a horizontal surface, whereas the maximum amount of incident solar radiation is measured on an inclined surface. Over the last decade, a number of models were proposed for predicting solar radiation on inclined surfaces. These models have various scopes; applicability to specific surfaces, the requirement for special measuring equipment, or limitations in scope. To find the most suitable model for a given location the hourly outputs predicted by available models are compared with the field measurements of the given location. The main objective of this study is to review on the estimation of the most accurate model or models for estimating solar radiation components for a selected location, by testing various models available in the literature. To increase the amount of incident solar radiation on photovoltaic (PV) panels, the PV panels are mounted on tilted surfaces. This article also provides an up-to-date status of different optimum tilt angles that have been determined in various countries.
Possibilities and Limitations of CFD Simulation for Flashing Flow Scenarios in Nuclear Applications
Authors: Liao Yixiang , Lucas Dirk
Published: January 2017

The flashing phenomenon is relevant to nuclear safety analysis, for example by a loss of coolant accident and safety release scenarios. It has been studied intensively by means of experiments and simulations with system codes, but computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is still at the embryonic stage. Rapid increasing computer speed makes it possible to apply the CFD technology in such complex flow situations. Nevertheless, a thorough evaluation on the limitations and restrictions is still missing, which is however indispensable for reliable application, as well as further development. In the present work, the commonly-used two-fluid model with different mono-disperse assumptions is used to simulate various flashing scenarios. With the help of available experimental data, the results are evaluated, and the limitations are discussed. A poly-disperse method is found necessary for a reliable prediction of mean bubble size and phase distribution. The first attempts to trace the evolution of the bubble size distribution by means of poly-disperse simulations are made.
Study on the Adsorption, Diffusion and Permeation Selectivity of Shale Gas in Organics
Authors: Wang Zhouhua , Li Yun , Liu Huang , Zeng Fanhua , Guo Ping , Jiang Wei
Published: January 2017

As kerogen is the main organic component in shale, the adsorption capacity, diffusion and permeability of the gas in kerogen plays an important role in shale gas production. Based on the molecular model of type II kerogen, an organic nanoporous structure was established. The Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) and Molecular Dynamics (MD) methods were used to study the adsorption and diffusion capacity of mixed gas systems with different mole ratios of CO2 and CH4 in the foregoing nanoporous structure, and gas adsorption, isosteric heats of adsorption and self-diffusion coefficient were obtained. The selective permeation of gas components in the organic pores was further studied. The results show that CO2 and CH4 present physical adsorption in the organic nanopores. The adsorption capacity of CO2 is larger than that of CH4 in organic pores, but the self-diffusion coefficient of CH4 in mixed gas is larger than that of CO2. Moreover, the self-diffusion coefficient in the horizontal direction is larger than that in the vertical direction. The mixed gas pressure and mole ratio have limited effects on the isosteric heat and the self-diffusion of CH4 and CO2 adsorption. Regarding the analysis of mixed gas selective permeation, it is concluded that the adsorption selectivity of CO2 is larger than that of CH4 in the organic nanopores. The larger the CO2/CH4 mole ratio, the greater the adsorption and permeation selectivity of mixed gas in shale. The permeation process is mainly controlled by adsorption rather than diffusion. These results are expected to reveal the adsorption and diffusion mechanism of gas in shale organics, which has a great significance for further research.
REDD+: Quick Assessment of Deforestation Risk Based on Available Data
Authors: Di Lallo Giulio , Mundhenk Philip , Zamora López Sheila , Marchetti Marco , Köhl Michael
Published: January 2017

The evaluation of the future dynamics of deforestation is essential to creating the basis for the effective implementation of REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation) initiatives. Such evaluation is often a challenging task, especially for countries that have to cope with a critical lack of data and capacities, higher uncertainties, and competing interests. We present a new modeling approach that makes use of available and easily accessible data sources to predict the spatial location of future deforestation. This approach is based on the Random Forest algorithm, which is a machine learning technique that enables evidence-based, data-driven decisions and is therefore often used in decision-making processes. Our objective is to provide a straightforward modeling approach that, without requiring cost-intensive assessments, can be applied in the early stages of REDD+, for a stepwise implementation approach of REDD+ projects in regions with limited availability of data, capital, technical infrastructure, or human capacities. The presented model focuses on building business-as-usual scenarios to identify and rank potentially suitable areas for REDD+ interventions. For validation purposes we applied the model to data from Nicaragua.
Anger Management: Aggression and Punishment in the Provision of Public Goods
Authors: Gee Laura , Lyu Xinxin , Urry Heather
Published: January 2017

The ability to punish free-riders can increase the provision of public goods. However, sometimes, the benefit of increased public good provision is outweighed by the costs of punishments. One reason a group may punish to the point that net welfare is reduced is that punishment can express anger about free-riding. If this is the case, then tools that regulate emotions could decrease the use of punishments while keeping welfare high, possibly depending on pre-existing levels of aggression. In this lab experiment, we find that adopting an objective attitude (objective), through a form of emotion regulation called cognitive reappraisal, decreases the use of punishments and makes a statistically insignificant improvement to both net earnings and self-reported emotions compared to a control condition (natural). Although the interaction between the emotion regulation treatment and level of aggression is not significant, only low aggression types reduce their punishments; the results are of the same direction, but statistically insignificant for high aggression types. Overall, our findings suggest that pairing emotion regulation with punishments can decrease the use of punishments without harming monetary and mental welfare.
The Evolution of Reputation-Based Cooperation in Regular Networks
Authors: Sasaki Tatsuya , Yamamoto Hitoshi , Okada Isamu , Uchida Satoshi
Published: January 2017

Despite recent advances in reputation technologies, it is not clear how reputation systems can affect human cooperation in social networks. Although it is known that two of the major mechanisms in the evolution of cooperation are spatial selection and reputation-based reciprocity, theoretical study of the interplay between both mechanisms remains almost uncharted. Here, we present a new individual-based model for the evolution of reciprocal cooperation between reputation and networks. We comparatively analyze four of the leading moral assessment rules—shunning, image scoring, stern judging, and simple standing—and base the model on the giving game in regular networks for Cooperators, Defectors, and Discriminators. Discriminators rely on a proper moral assessment rule. By using individual-based models, we show that the four assessment rules are differently characterized in terms of how cooperation evolves, depending on the benefit-to-cost ratio, the network-node degree, and the observation and error conditions. Our findings show that the most tolerant rule—simple standing—is the most robust among the four assessment rules in promoting cooperation in regular networks.
Transcriptome-Wide Identification and Prediction of miRNAs and Their Targets in Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis by High-Throughput Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Ling Li-Zhen , Zhang Shu-Dong , Zhao Fan , Yang Jin-Long , Song Wen-Hui , Guan Shen-Min , Li Xin-Shu , Huang Zhuang-Jia , Cheng Le
Published: January 2017

Long dormancy period of seeds limits the large-scale artificial cultivation of the scarce Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis, an important traditional Chinese medicine. Characterizing miRNAs and their targets is crucial to understanding the role of miRNAs during seed dormancy in this species. Considering the limited genome information of this species, we first sequenced and assembled the transcriptome data of dormant seeds and their seed coats as the reference genome. A total of 146,671 unigenes with an average length of 923 bp were identified and showed functional diversity based on different annotation methods. Two small RNA libraries from respective seeds and seed coats were sequenced and the combining data indicates that 263 conserved miRNAs belonging to at least 83 families and 768 novel miRNAs in 1174 transcripts were found. The annotations of the predicted putative targets of miRNAs suggest that these miRNAs were mainly involved in the cell, metabolism and genetic information processing by direct and indirect regulation patterns in dormant seeds of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis. Therefore, we provide the first known miRNA profiles and their targets, which will assist with further study of the molecular mechanism of seed dormancy in P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis.
Decreased Sp1 Expression Mediates Downregulation of SHIP2 in Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Ye Yan , Qian Xue , Xiao Miao , Shao Yu , Guo Li , Liao Dong , Da Jie , Zhang Lin , Xu Jiegou
Published: January 2017

Past studies have shown that the Src homology 2-containing inositol 5-phosphatase 2 (SHIP2) is commonly downregulated in gastric cancer, which contributes to elevated activation of PI3K/Akt signaling, proliferation and tumorigenesis of gastric cancer cells. However, the mechanisms underlying the reduced expression of SHIP2 in gastric cancer remain unclear. While gene copy number variation analysis and exon sequencing indicated the absence of genomic alterations of SHIP2, bisulfite genomic sequencing (BGS) showed promoter hypomethylation of SHIP2 in gastric cancer cells. Analysis of transcriptional activity of SHIP2 promoter revealed Specificity protein 1 (Sp1) was responsible for the regulation of SHIP2 expression in gastric cancer cells. Furthermore, Sp1 expression, but not Sp3, was frequently downregulated in gastric cancer compared with normal gastric mucosa, which was associated with a paralleled reduction in SHIP2 levels in gastric cancer. Moreover, overexpression of Sp1 inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, suppressed cell motility and invasion in gastric cancer cells in vitro, which was, at least in part, due to transcriptional activation of SHIP2 mediated by Sp1, thereby inactivating Akt. Collectively, these results indicate that decreased expression of transcription factor Sp1 contributes to suppression of SHIP2 in gastric cancer cells.
Expression of Lipid Metabolism-Related Proteins Differs between Invasive Lobular Carcinoma and Invasive Ductal Carcinoma
Authors: Cha Yoon , Kim Hye , Koo Ja
Published: January 2017

We comparatively investigated the expression and clinical implications of lipid metabolism-related proteins in invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) of the breast. A total of 584 breast cancers (108 ILC and 476 IDC) were subjected to tissue microarray and immunohistochemical analysis for lipid metabolism-related proteins including hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), perilipin A, fatty acid binding protein (FABP)4, carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT)-1, acyl-CoA oxidase 1, and fatty acid synthetase (FASN). HSL, perilipin A, and FABP4 expression (all p < 0.001) differed significantly: HSL and FABP4 were more frequently present in ILC, whereas perilipin A was more frequently detected in IDC. Among all invasive cancers, HSL and FABP4 were highly expressed in luminal A-type ILC (p < 0.001) and perilipin A in luminal A-type IDC (p = 0.007). Among luminal B-type cancers, HSL and FABP4 were more highly expressed in ILC (p < 0.001). Univariate analysis found associations of shorter disease-free survival with CPT-1 positivity (p = 0.004) and acyl-CoA oxidase 1 positivity (p = 0.032) and of shorter overall survival with acyl-CoA oxidase 1 positivity (p = 0.027). In conclusion, ILC and IDC exhibited different immunohistochemical lipid metabolism-related protein expression profiles. Notably, ILC exhibited high HSL and FABP4 and low perilipin A expression.
Klyflaccicembranols A–I, New Cembranoids from the Soft Coral Klyxum flaccidum
Authors: Ahmed Atallah , Tsai Chia-Ruei , Huang Chiung-Yao , Wang Sheng-Yang , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: January 2017

New cembranoids klyflaccicembranols A–I (1–9), along with gibberosene D (10), have been isolated from the organic extract of a Formosan soft coral Klyxum flaccidum. Their structures were established by extensive spectroscopic analyses, including 2D NMR spectroscopy, and spectral data comparison with related structures. The cytotoxicity of the isolated metabolites, as well as their nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activity, were evaluated and reported. Metabolites 2, 4, 6, 8 and 9 were found to exhibit variable activities against a limited panel of cancer cell lines in a range of IC50 16.5–49.4 μM. Among the tested cembranoids, compounds 4, 5, 6, and 9 significantly inhibited NO production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages at a dose of 50 μg/mL.
The Influence of Chitosan Cross-linking on the Properties of Alginate Microparticles with Metformin Hydrochloride—In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Szekalska Marta , Sosnowska Katarzyna , Zakrzeska Agnieszka , Kasacka Irena , Lewandowska Alicja , Winnicka Katarzyna
Published: January 2017

Sodium alginate is a polymer with unique ability to gel with different cross-linking agents in result of ionic and electrostatic interactions. Chitosan cross-linked alginate provides improvement of swelling and mucoadhesive properties and might be used to design sustained release dosage forms. Therefore, the aim of this research was to develop and evaluate possibility of preparing chitosan cross-linked alginate microparticles containing metformin hydrochloride by the spray-drying method. In addition, influence of cross-linking agent on the properties of microparticles was evaluated. Formulation of microparticles prepared by the spray drying of 2% alginate solution cross-linked by 0.1% chitosan was characterized by good mucoadhesive properties, high drug loading and prolonged metformin hydrochloride release. It was shown that designed microparticles reduced rat glucose blood level, delayed absorption of metformin hydrochloride and provided stable plasma drug concentration. Additionally, histopathological studies of pancreas, liver and kidneys indicated that all prepared microparticles improved degenerative changes in organs of diabetic rats. Moreover, no toxicity effect and no changes in rats behavior after oral administration of chitosan cross-linked alginate microparticles were noted.
Synthesis and Characterization of Waterborne Fluoropolymers Prepared by the One-Step Semi-Continuous Emulsion Polymerization of Chlorotrifluoroethylene, Vinyl Acetate, Butyl Acrylate, Veova 10 and Acrylic Acid
Authors: Liu Hongzhu , Bian Jiming , Wang Zhonggang , Hou Chuan-Jin
Published: January 2017

Waterborne fluoropolymer emulsions were synthesized using the one-step semi-continuous seed emulsion polymerization of chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE), vinyl acetate (VAc), n-butyl acrylate (BA), Veova 10, and acrylic acid (AA). The main physical parameters of the polymer emulsions were tested and analyzed. Characteristics of the polymer films such as thermal stability, glass transition temperature, film-forming properties, and IR spectrum were studied. Meanwhile, the weatherability of fluoride coatings formulated by the waterborne fluoropolymer and other coatings were evaluated by the quick ultraviolet (QUV) accelerated weathering test, and the results showed that the fluoropolymer with more than 12% fluoride content possessed outstanding weather resistance. Moreover, scale-up and industrial-scale experiments of waterborne fluoropolymer emulsions were also performed and investigated.
Prevalence of Self-Reported Gluten Sensitivity and Adherence to a Gluten-Free Diet in Argentinian Adult Population
Authors: Cabrera-Chávez Francisco , Dezar Gimena , Islas-Zamorano Anna , Espinoza-Alderete Jesús , Vergara-Jiménez Marcela , Magaña-Ordorica Dalia , Ontiveros Noé
Published: January 2017

Background: Previous studies suggest that the prevalence of wheat/gluten sensitivity and adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD) are high in Latin population despite a poor diagnosis of celiac disease. However, these prevalence rates still remain unknown in most Latin American countries. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted in Santa Fe, Argentina. Results: The estimated self-reported prevalence rates were (95% Confidence Interval [CI]): self-reported gluten sensitivity (SR-GS) 7.61% (6.2–9.2), SR-GS currently following a GFD 1.82% (1.2–2.7), celiac disease 0.58% (0.3–1.2), wheat allergy 0.33% (0.12–0.84), self-reported non-celiac gluten sensitivity (SR-NCGS) 6.28% (5.1–7.8), SR-NCGS currently following a GFD 0.91% (0.5–1.6), and adherence to a GFD 6.37% (5.1–7.9). SR-GS was more common in women (6.0%; p < 0.001) and associated with irritable bowel syndrome (p < 0.001). Among the GFD followers, 71.4% were doing it for reasons other than health-related benefits and 50.6% without medical/dietitian advice. In the non-SR-GS group, the main motivations for following a GFD were weight control and the perception that a GFD is healthier. Conclusion: In Argentina, gluten sensitivity is commonly reported and it seems that physicians/gastroenterologists are aware of celiac disease diagnosis. Trustable information about the benefits and potential consequences of following a GFD should be given to the general population.
Effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 on Cancer Cells and Potential Applications in Combination with Established and Putative Anti-Cancer Agents
Authors: Abu el Maaty Mohamed , Wölfl Stefan
Published: January 2017

The diverse effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3), the bio-active form of vitamin D, on cancer cell metabolism and proliferation has made it an interesting candidate as a supporting therapeutic option in cancer treatment. An important strategy in cancer therapy is the use of combination chemotherapy to overcome drug resistance associated with numerous anti-cancer agents and to provide better means of avoiding undesirable side effects. This complex strategy is widely adopted by oncologists and several established “cocktails” of chemotherapeutics are routinely administered to cancer patients. Among the principles followed in designing such treatment regimens is the use of drugs with different mechanisms of action to overcome the issue of tumor heterogeneity and to evade resistance. In light of the profound and diverse effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 reported by in vitro and in vivo studies, we discuss how these effects could support the use of this molecule in combination with “classical” cytotoxic drugs, such as platins and anti-metabolites, for the treatment of solid and hematological tumors. We also examine recent evidence supporting synergistic activities with other promising anti-cancer drug candidates, and postulate mechanisms through which 1,25(OH)2D3 may help evade chemoresistance.
Operational High Resolution Land Cover Map Production at the Country Scale Using Satellite Image Time Series
Authors: Inglada Jordi , Vincent Arthur , Arias Marcela , Tardy Benjamin , Morin David , Rodes Isabel
Published: January 2017

A detailed and accurate knowledge of land cover is crucial for many scientific and operational applications, and as such, it has been identified as an Essential Climate Variable. This accurate knowledge needs frequent updates. This paper presents a methodology for the fully automatic production of land cover maps at country scale using high resolution optical image time series which is based on supervised classification and uses existing databases as reference data for training and validation. The originality of the approach resides in the use of all available image data, a simple pre-processing step leading to a homogeneous set of acquisition dates over the whole area and the use of a supervised classifier which is robust to errors in the reference data. The produced maps have a kappa coefficient of 0.86 with 17 land cover classes. The processing is efficient, allowing a fast delivery of the maps after the acquisition of the image data, does not need expensive field surveys for model calibration and validation, nor human operators for decision making, and uses open and freely available imagery. The land cover maps are provided with a confidence map which gives information at the pixel level about the expected quality of the result.
Imaging and Force Recognition of Single Molecular Behaviors Using Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Li Mi , Dang Dan , Liu Lianqing , Xi Ning , Wang Yuechao
Published: January 2017

The advent of atomic force microscopy (AFM) has provided a powerful tool for investigating the behaviors of single native biological molecules under physiological conditions. AFM can not only image the conformational changes of single biological molecules at work with sub-nanometer resolution, but also sense the specific interactions of individual molecular pair with piconewton force sensitivity. In the past decade, the performance of AFM has been greatly improved, which makes it widely used in biology to address diverse biomedical issues. Characterizing the behaviors of single molecules by AFM provides considerable novel insights into the underlying mechanisms guiding life activities, contributing much to cell and molecular biology. In this article, we review the recent developments of AFM studies in single-molecule assay. The related techniques involved in AFM single-molecule assay were firstly presented, and then the progress in several aspects (including molecular imaging, molecular mechanics, molecular recognition, and molecular activities on cell surface) was summarized. The challenges and future directions were also discussed.
Effective Calibration of Low-Cost Soil Water Content Sensors
Authors: Bogena Heye , Huisman Johan , Schilling Bernd , Weuthen Ansgar , Vereecken Harry
Published: January 2017

Soil water content is a key variable for understanding and modelling ecohydrological processes. Low-cost electromagnetic sensors are increasingly being used to characterize the spatio-temporal dynamics of soil water content, despite the reduced accuracy of such sensors as compared to reference electromagnetic soil water content sensing methods such as time domain reflectometry. Here, we present an effective calibration method to improve the measurement accuracy of low-cost soil water content sensors taking the recently developed SMT100 sensor (Truebner GmbH, Neustadt, Germany) as an example. We calibrated the sensor output of more than 700 SMT100 sensors to permittivity using a standard procedure based on five reference media with a known apparent dielectric permittivity (1 < Ka < 34.8). Our results showed that a sensor-specific calibration improved the accuracy of the calibration compared to single “universal” calibration. The associated additional effort in calibrating each sensor individually is relaxed by a dedicated calibration setup that enables the calibration of large numbers of sensors in limited time while minimizing errors in the calibration process.
Evaluation of Commercial Self-Monitoring Devices for Clinical Purposes: Results from the Future Patient Trial, Phase I
Authors: Leth Soren , Hansen John , Nielsen Olav , Dinesen Birthe
Published: January 2017

Commercial self-monitoring devices are becoming increasingly popular, and over the last decade, the use of self-monitoring technology has spread widely in both consumer and medical markets. The purpose of this study was to evaluate five commercially available self-monitoring devices for further testing in clinical applications. Four activity trackers and one sleep tracker were evaluated based on step count validity and heart rate validity. Methods: The study enrolled 22 healthy volunteers in a walking test. Volunteers walked a 100 m track at 2 km/h and 3.5 km/h. Steps were measured by four activity trackers and compared to gyroscope readings. Two trackers were also tested on nine subjects by comparing pulse readings to Holter monitoring. Results: The lowest average systematic error in the walking tests was −0.2%, recorded on the Garmin Vivofit 2 at 3.5 km/h; the highest error was the Fitbit Charge HR at 2 km/h with an error margin of 26.8%. Comparisons of pulse measurements from the Fitbit Charge HR revealed a margin error of −3.42% ± 7.99% compared to the electrocardiogram. The Beddit sleep tracker measured a systematic error of −3.27% ± 4.60%. Conclusion: The measured results revealed the current functionality and limitations of the five self-tracking devices, and point towards a need for future research in this area.
Gas Sensors Based on Polymer Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Lv Aifeng , Pan Yong , Chi Lifeng
Published: January 2017

This review focuses on polymer field-effect transistor (PFET) based gas sensor with polymer as the sensing layer, which interacts with gas analyte and thus induces the change of source-drain current (ΔISD). Dependent on the sensing layer which can be semiconducting polymer, dielectric layer or conducting polymer gate, the PFET sensors can be subdivided into three types. For each type of sensor, we present the molecular structure of sensing polymer, the gas analyte and the sensing performance. Most importantly, we summarize various analyte–polymer interactions, which help to understand the sensing mechanism in the PFET sensors and can provide possible approaches for the sensor fabrication in the future.
Hierarchical NiCo2O4 Hollow Sphere as a Peroxidase Mimetic for Colorimetric Detection of H2O2 and Glucose
Authors: Huang Wei , Lin Tianye , Cao Yang , Lai Xiaoyong , Peng Juan , Tu Jinchun
Published: January 2017

In this work, the hierarchical NiCo2O4 hollow sphere synthesized via a “coordinating etching and precipitating” process was demonstrated to exhibit intrinsic peroxidase-like activity. The peroxidase-like activity of NiCo2O4, NiO, and Co3O4 hollow spheres were comparatively studied by the catalytic oxidation reaction of 3,3,5,5-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) in presence of H2O2, and a superior peroxidase-like activity of NiCo2O4 was confirmed by stronger absorbance at 652 nm. Furthermore, the proposed sensing platform showed commendable response to H2O2 with a linear range from 10 μM to 400 μM, and a detection limit of 0.21 μM. Cooperated with GOx, the developed novel colorimetric and visual glucose-sensing platform exhibited high selectivity, favorable reproducibility, satisfactory applicability, wide linear range (from 0.1 mM to 4.5 mM), and a low detection limit of 5.31 μM. In addition, the concentration-dependent color change would offer a better and handier way for detection of H2O2 and glucose by naked eye.