bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La oportunidad en los delitos de violencia de género
Authors: Santana Hernández Juana Dolores
Published: December 2019

La oportunidad es uno de los elementos necesarios para que una persona cometa un delito. La mayoría de los estudios criminológicos sobre la oportunidad se centran en delitos de robo, tráfico de estupefacientes o delincuencia callejera, y son muy escasos los que estudian este aspecto de la criminología en los delitos de violencia que se cometen contra la propia familia o pareja íntima. En este trabajo nos propusimos explorar las características de la oportunidad en los casos en los cuales se cometen delitos de violencia de género y familiar. Para ello analizamos las sentencias del Tribunal Supremo de España sobre esta materia, comprendidas entre los años 2008 y 2018. Los datos revelan que en este tipo de delitos la oportunidad reviste una serie de características que la diferencia de otros delitos al producirse en un contexto donde hay, o se espera que haya, un clima de confianza, afecto y reciprocidad. En estos delitos, los agresores no solo aprovechan la oportunidad, sino que, a menudo, la preparan de antemano. Actúan en unos escenarios ocultos a la mirada de otras personas y al control social, lo que hace que sea muy difícil la prevención por parte de la víctima y de la sociedad.
Identification of daylily rust (Puccinia hemerocallidis) and characterization of resistance of five genotypes
Authors: Sandoval-Sánchez Maricarmen , Nava-Díaz Cristian , Pérez-Cárcamo Jorge , Sandoval-Islas José Sergio
Published: December 2019

El lirio de día (Hemerocallis spp.) es atacado por el hongo Puccinia hemerocallidis. En México no existen reportes de esta enfermedad o de material vegetal resistente al patógeno. Desde 2008, se han observado síntomas de roya sobre hojas de H. lilioasphodelus en el jardín de una casa particular en el municipio de Chicoloapan de Juárez, Estado de México y en un vivero de Fortín de las Flores, Veracruz. Los objetivos de esta investigación fueron identificar morfológica y molecularmente los aislamientos de ambas localidades y caracterizar la resistencia a esta enfermedad macroscópicamente en cinco genotipos de Hemerocallis spp., bajo condiciones de invernadero. De acuerdo con las características morfológicas de uredosporas, teliosporas y estudios moleculares, el hongo se identificó como P. hemerocallidis. Los genotipos evaluados se agruparon en tres categorías de resistencia: H. lilioasphodelus se comportó susceptible; los cultivares ‘Radiant Greetings’ y ‘Stella d’Oro’ de la especie H. hybrida se clasificaron como moderadamente resistentes; el cultivar ‘Cherry Wine’ y la especie H. fulva se agruparon como resistentes; esta última presenta una probable resistencia parcial sensu Parlevliet. La presencia de P. hemerocallidis y la resistencia de genotipos de lirio de día se reporta por primera vez en México.
Structural and Photocatalytic Properties of TiO2/Zeolite Synthesized using Sol-Gel Method
Authors: Aini Nur , Sagita Fahmi Eksa , Diyanah Khoridatud , Arifah Aminatus , Chasanah Siti Nur , Prasetyo Anton
Published: December 2019

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is supported into natural zeolite to enhance its photocatalytic activity. TiO2/zeolite is synthesized using sol-gel method at composition ratio of 5:95; 10:90; 20:80 and 30:70%. Structural properties are measured by X-ray diffraction showed TiO2/zeolite in various composition has characteristic of anatase and modernite phase. The energy dispersive spectroscopy characterization shows TiO2/zeolite containing Ti element which indicates that TiO2is successfully supported into natural zeolite. Vibration mode of Infrared and Raman spectra tend shifted to higher wavenumber as increasing of TiO2 content indicating the higher energy vibration due to molecular interaction between TiO2 and zeolite. Photocatalytic activity test toward methylene blue degradation shows that TiO2/zeolite has higher activity than TiO2 and zeolite itself.

Keywords: Photocatalyst, titanium dioxide, zeolite
SPIRITUAL EDUCATION THROUGH ZIARAH TRADITION IN SYAIKH SYAMSUDDIN AL-WASIL TOWN KEDIRI CITY
Authors: Mahzumi M. Al-Qodhi Abi Saidil , Fuad A. Jauhar
Published: December 2019

This paper aims to examine the development of spirituality that is traversed through the grave pilgrimage tradition by utilizing symbolic interactionist theory, religious and cultural theory, and spiritual intelligence theory. This study wanted to reveal the process and impact of a person’s spiritual change after carrying out the tradition of pilgrimage in the Tomb of Shaykh Syamsuddin al-Wasil, Kediri city. The results of this study show that first, spiritual process of pilgrims starts from the reason for making the tomb of Shaykh Syamsuddin Al-Wasil, Kediri city as an object of spiritual education, namely a media reminder for pilgrims, efforts to approach pilgrims to Allah, and as a place of prayer. The spiritual process itself is divided into three stages, namely; (1) pre-pilgrimage by purifying with ablution, (2) the stage of pilgrimage begins with tawasul on special people, reading the Qur’an, reading tahlil and finally reading the do’a, (3) after the pilgrimage by doing shodaqoh. Second, in terms of spiritual changes in the pilgrim’s self, namely; (1) inner changes such as calmness of heart and feeling holy heart, (2) changes in the end like feeling in living life more diligently and zealously, feeling lazy disappears, and pilgrims can control emotions.

Tulisan ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji pengembangan spiritualitas yang dilalui dengan cara tradisi ziarah kubur dengan memanfaatkan teori interaksionis simbolis, teori agama dan budaya, serta teori kecerdasan spiritual. Penelitian ini mengungkap proses dan dampak perubahan spiritual sesorang setelah melakukan tradisi ziarah di Makam Syaikh Syamsuddin al-Wasil kota Kediri. Hasil penelitian ini menemukan bahwa; pertama proses spiritual peziarah bermula dari alasan menjadikan makam Syaikh Syamsuddin Al-Wasil Kota Kediri sebagai objek pendidikan spiritual yakni, media pengingat bagi peziarah, upaya mendekatan peziarah pada Allah, dan sebagai tempat berdo’a. Proses spiritual sendiri dibagi menjadi tiga tahap yakni; (1) pra ziarah dengan melakukan penyucian dengan berwudhu, (2) tahap ziarah dimulai dengan bertawasul pada orang-orang khusus, membaca al-Qur’an, membaca tahlil dan terakhir membaca do’a, (3) pasca ziarah dengan melakukan shodaqoh. Kedua, segi perubahan spiritual yang terjadi pada diri peziarah yakni; (1) perubahan secara batin seperti ketenangan hati dan merasa hati menjadi bersih, (2) perubahan secara dhohir seperti merasa dalam menjalani hidup semakin rajin dan bersemangat, rasa malas menghilang, dan peziarah dapat mengontrol emosi.
UNDERSTANDING HADRAH ART AS THE LIVING AL-QUR’AN: THE ORIGIN, PERFORMANCE AND WORLDVIEW
Authors: Iswanto Agus
Published: December 2019

This article explores hadrah art in Lampung. Hadrah art actually becomes the most played religious music art among Indonesian Muslim in various areas. It focuses on the doctrinal basis of hadrah believed by Indonesian Muslim. By explaining the origin of the hadrah, its performances, tools and poems sung, with the living Qur’an concepts and interpretivism perspective, I found that hadrah is usually performed in religious rituals, then it is always contextual and connotative. Hadrah for Indonesian Muslim can be understood as the living Qur’an phenomenon because the underlying doctrine is shalawat from the Qur’an. As one of the phenomena of the living Qur’an, hadrah group, essentially, is reciting poems praising Allah and the Prophet of Muhammad, and they believe that it is as a command of the Qur’an. Thus, there has been acculturation between the teachings of the Qur’an with the local culture of society.

Artikel ini membahas tentang seni hadrah di Lampung. Seni hadrah sebenarnya menjadi seni musik religius yang paling banyak dimainkan di kalangan Muslim Indonesia di berbagai wilayah. Artikel ini fokus pada dasar doktrinal hadrah yang diyakini oleh Muslim Indonesia. Dengan menjelaskan asal mula hadrah, pertunjukannya, alat-alatnya dan puisi-puisinya yang dinyanyikan, dengan menggunakan kerangka konsep Al-Qur’an yang hidup dan perspektif interpretivisme, terungkap bahwa hadrah biasanya dilakukan dalam ritual keagamaan, lalu selalu bersifat kontekstual dan konotatif. Hadrah bagi Muslim Indonesia dapat dipahami sebagai fenomena Al-Qur’an yang hidup, karena doktrin yang melandasinya adalah shalawat dari Al-Qur’an. Sebagai salah satu fenomena dari Al-Qur’an yang hidup, kelompok hadrah, pada dasarnya, melantunkan puisi yang memuji Allah dan Nabi Muhammad, dan mereka percaya bahwa itu adalah sebagai perintah Al-Qur’an. Dengan demikian, telah terjadi akulturasi antara ajaran Al-Qur’an dengan budaya masyarakat setempat.
The Nursing Salon Experience: A Salon for Nurses of Color
Authors: Sinkfield-Morey Tammy
Published: December 2019

Nursing salons are an opportunity for collegiality, comfort, collaboration, connectivity, and conversations about what's on the hearts and minds of the participants. The Nurses of Color Nursing Salon is a first endeavor in Minnesota to host a salon that provides a safe space for nurses and other health-care professionals of color to have conversations about their experiences with racism, discrimination, and institutionalized supremacy. Since the inception of the Nurses of Color salon on Juneteenth 2018, the hosts and their participants have created lively gatherings where all have engaged in big conversations about the challenges they face as nurses of color, and about racism past and present. The sacred space of the salon has fostered a renewal of their spirits and a restoration of their endless passion for what and who we are as nurses.
Moro Muslims In Southern Phillippines: The Rise of Abu Sayyaf and the Genealogy of Conflict In Southeast Asia
Authors: Sahrasad Herdi , Wibisono Adhe Nuansa , Al Chaidar Al Chaidar
Published: December 2019

The main problem of Moro Muslims in Southern Philippines are now the right to self-determination but it also include poverty, underdevelopment, low education, unemployment, discrimination, and violent conflict. Upon the Spanish colonization for more than three centuries (1521-1898), the Moros were controlled by the United States for almost five decades (1898-1942). Japan colonised them for three years before they were integrated to the Republic of Philippines in 1946. Their struggle for independence still continues today represented by the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), establihsed in the late 1960s and led by Nur Misuari, and by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) led by Salamat Hasyim in 1981. The birth of the MILF was a response to dissatisfaction with the MNLF that was considered less assertive in fighting for Bangsamoro's rights and too accommodative to the Philippine government. In early 1990s, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) led by Abdulrajak Janjalani emerged to respond the situation. In later development, it rises to become a prominent group involved in a long-standing conflict and terror in this landmark of Southeast Asia region.
Islam Today in Modern West: Fazlur Rahman’s and Tariq Ramadan’s Views on Jihad
Authors: Chotimah Bimbo Chusnul
Published: December 2019

This paper discusses the issues of radicalism that have reappeared in the public sphere nowadays. The discussion will focus on the interpretation of Jihad by Fazlur Rahman and Tariq Ramadan. They are among two modern reformers whose ideas heavily focus on the social, economic and political issues about Muslims in the West. This paper will discuss the thoughts of these two figures about jihad spread across their various writings. As a contemporary reformist Muslim leader, Rahman and Ramadan had made many interpretations of the Qur'an by adapting to the social context of society when the interpretation was made, namely Western society. Their Qur'anic interpretations and their thoughts-whether directly or indirectly-reflect on the circumstances and challenges that Muslims encounter in the West, Europe and the US, today. This paper contributes to the discussion of the meaning of jihad and various attempts at interpretation of the term. Besides, this paper will at least provide an overview of how the face of  Islam in the West in the modern era as it is today.
Rethinking Jacques Derrida’s Deconstruction and its Relevance to the Study of Islam
Authors: Fattah Abdul
Published: December 2019

This article examines  Jacques Derrida’s concept of deconstruction and its implementation in the context of contemporary Islamic studies. Philosophically, the status of texts should not be regarded merely as writing because the meaning goes beyond the lexicogrammatical boundaries. Hence, scrutinizing ways to unveil hidden meanings possibly entail subjective or partial values embedded in the texts, particularly religious texts pertinent to Islamic civilization (turāth). Based on the philosophical analysis of the Derrida’s work, this study shows that there are at least two points of the relevance of the Derrida's philosophical thought to deconstruct the turāth and the Western domination in Muslim society. First, it is a useful device to criticise and deconstruct religious thoughts and texts, which are, to some extent, still dominant and considered sacred. These cover a wide range of Islamic texts that build Islamic civilization, from mysticism, law to theology. The second dimension is dismantling the context (today Muslim civilization) through decentralization of the Western hegemony and promotion of Occidentalism, a way of seeing the West from the East.
Assessment of behavioral factors associated with dental caries in pre-school children of high socioeconomic status families
Authors: Noaman Bushra Rashid
Published: December 2019

Background: Many Iraqi children of high socioeconomic status (SES) families attend dental clinics presenting predominantly cavitated and painful multiple carious lesions. The factors responsible for dental caries within this sector of society need to be identified. Purpose: The aim of this study is to assess the dental care behavior of mothers and its relationship with the prevalence of dental caries in pre-school age children drawn from high SES families in northern Iraq. Methods: A study was conducted to assess the prevalence of dental caries and its relationship to oral hygiene habits in 440 pre-schoolers living in Erbil, northern Iraq. An oral hygiene questionnaire was distributed among the families. Dental examination of the children was performed to calculate the dependent factor of decayed, missing and filled teeth due to caries (dmf). All data was analyzed by means of the SPSS Microsoft statistical system using descriptive tables to identify the relationship between the dependent and independent variable dmf indexes. In order to find the significances, a Chi-square test, a Fisher’s exact test and a likelihood ratio test were used at level of p<0.05. Results: 67% of the children in the sample had dental caries (mean dmf=3.25±3.77) with 5-year-olds being more affected by dental caries (74%) than 4-year-olds (60%). A strong correlation was found in this study between the dependent factor, dmf, and the following independent factors: frequency of snack consumption, the need to assist the child during brushing, maternal caries and the mother’s education. Conclusion: Despite being members of high SES families, the children examined were significantly subject to dental caries, a fact directly correlated with inappropriate behavior on the part of their caregivers in relation to the essential aspects of oral health care.
The potential effect of Moringa oleifera leaves extract on vascular endothelial growth factor expression in Wistar rat oral cancer cells
Authors: Hartono Dwicha Rahma Nuriska , Sulisetyawati Theresia Indah Budhy , Jularso Edhi
Published: December 2019

Background: Cancer is a disease characterized by abnormal and uncontrolled growth of tissue cells. In Indonesia, cancer ranks as the fifth largest cause of mortality, while it is the second largest worldwide. Cancer affected by angiogenesis, the process of forming new blood vessels to provide the nutrient and oxygen necessary for tumor growth. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) represents a pro-angiogenic factor. Moringa oleifera leaf extract can be used as an anticancer agent by reducing the expression of VEGF. Purpose: The study aimed to prove that Moringa oleifera leaf extract can reduce VEGF expression in benzopyrene-induced oral cancer cells of Wistar rats. Methods: This was an experimental laboratory research with posttest-only control group design. All experimental subjects presented symptoms of cancer following induction with 8 mg/KgBW of benzopyrene. The sample consisted of 28 Wistar rats, divided into four groups, namely; a control group (K) whose members were administered with only aquadest and three treatment groups (P) treated with Moringa oleifera leaves extract at percentages of 3.125% (P1), 4.6875% (P2) and 6.25% (P3) respectively. Observation of VEGF expression was undertaken by means of immunohistochemical staining. Results: A decrease in VEGF expression occurred in all treatment groups when compared with the control group. A significant difference existed between the control group (K) and the treatment group (P1), while there were no significant differences between the treatment groups (P1, P2 and P3). Conclusion: Moringa oleifera leaf extract with a percentage of 3.125% proved most effective at reducing VEGF expression in oral cancer cells in Wistar rats.
PEMANFAATAN LIMBAH DAUN NANAS (Ananas comosus) SEBAGAI BAHAN BAKU PEMBUATAN PLASTIK BIODEGRADABLE
Authors: Natalia Maria , Hazrifawati Wirananditami , Wicakso Doni Rahmat
Published: December 2019

Biodegradable plastic (bioplastics) is a polymer that can be degraded and made from renewable sources, including cellulose obtained from pineapple leaves. The purpose of this study is to determine the mechanical properties of bioplastics from cellulose, determine the optimum conditions based on the concentration of chitosan variations on cellulose solution and the addition of glycerol plasticizers to the mechanical properties of biodegradable plastic produced. This study begins with the manufacture of cellulose from pineapple leaves through a process of delignification and bleaching and then making biodegradable plastic 1% cellulose raw material with a variation of chitosan with a variation of 1%; 2%; 3% and the addition of plasticizer glycerol 1%, 2% and 3% (v/v). The results obtained will be observed by tensile tests, SEM tests, swelling tests, and biodegradation. The results obtained in the morphological test with the SEM test showed that cellulose was not evenly distributed. The tensile strength test for the addition of chitosan showed that the concentration of 3% had the highest tensile strength value of 11.8 MPa while the tensile strength of the addition of glycerol showed that the concentration of 3% had the highest tensile strength value of 3.6 MPa. The swelling test shows that glycerol concentration influences biodegradable plastic water resistance and glycerol 3% has the highest percentage of water resistance, 16.6%. In the biodegradable plastic degradation test with 3% glycerol experiencing the fastest degradation, this shows that glycerol has an effect on biodegradable plastic degradation
Biological Hotspot of Ichthyoplankton in the Estuarine Environment Timbulsoko Village, Demak
Authors: Adi Nugroho Hanityo , Anggoro Sutrisno , Widowati Ita
Published: December 2019

Biological Hotspot research of fish larvae in estuarine waters of Timbulsoko Village, Demak was conducted in April-June 2019 in Timbulsoko Village. Timbulsloko has fertile waters because many fishermen make this location as a fishing ground area. Timbulsloko has the potential to become a nursery ground area and feeding ground for fish due to natural mangrove habitat but the abrasion disaster resulted in the degradation of the nursery ground habitat for early stage fish. The results showed that fish larvae caught in the waters of Timbulsloko Village consisted of 13 families. The composition of the types of fish larvae caught are Mugilidae, Siganidae, Gobiidae, Leiognathidae, Scatophagidae, Chanidae, Latidae, Engraulidae, Gerreidae, Carangidae, Bagridae, Sillaginidae, Ambassidae. The most common types of fish larvae are Ambassidae fish larvae, which are 46.98%, while the least caught are Carangidae fish larvae, Sillaginidae which is 1.01%. The largest abundance of fish larvae is 428,271 ind / m3 found at D2P2, while the abundance of fish larvae is at least at E1P1270 point with an abundance value of 51,498 ind / m3. The similarity of ecological habitat values at D2P2 and A2G1 points based on PCA analysis and the similarity of contours from spatial depth interpolation indicate the biological hotspot in the mangrove waters of Timbulsloko Village.
Alpha-cyclodextrin Attenuates the Glycemic and Insulinemic Impact of White Bread in Healthy Male Volunteers
Authors: Bär Albert , Diamantis Ioannis , Venetz Werner
Published: December 2019

Twelve overnight fasted, healthy, male volunteers received on separate days a test breakfast consisting of (A) 100 g fresh white bread (providing 50 g starch) and 250 mL drinking water, (B) the same bread with a supplement of 10 g alpha-cyclodextrin dissolved in the drinking water (250 mL), and (C) 250 mL drinking water containing 25 g alpha-cyclodextrin. Capillary and venous blood samples were collected before breakfast and at regular intervals for a period of 3 hours thereafter. Plasma glucose was determined in capillary blood and plasma insulin in venous blood samples. Breakfast (A) let to the expected rise in blood glucose and insulin concentrations. Breakfast (C) did not produce a significant glycemic and insulinemic response, demonstrating that alpha-cyclodextrin is not hydrolyzed to glucose in the human digestive tract. Mild intestinal symptoms after the ingestion of alpha-cyclodextrin were reported by 4 subjects. The postprandial rises of plasma glucose and insulin were significantly smaller after breakfast (B) than (A). Under the conditions of this study, alpha-cyclodextrin reduced the glycemic and insulinemic index of white bread by 57 and 55 %, respectively. The postprandial time profile of plasma glucose and insulin suggests that, in an initial phase, the digestion of starch is inhibited by alpha-cyclodextrin almost completely. Yet, despite the delayed and reduced digestion of starch, the intake of breakfast (B) was not associated with flatulence or any other gastrointestinal symptoms.
DECM: A Discrete Element for Multiscale Modeling of Composite Materials Using the Cell Method
Authors: Ferretti Elena
Published: December 2019

This paper deals with a DEM (Discrete Element Method) approach of the Cell Method (CM), useful for providing a multiscale modeling of composite materials. The new numerical model, called DECM, combines the main features of both the DEM and the CM. In particular, it offers the same degree of detail as the CM, on the microscale, and manages the discrete elements individually such as the DEM—allowing finite displacements and rotations—on the macroscale. Moreover, the DECM is able to activate crack propagation until complete detachment and automatically recognizes new contacts. Unlike other DEM approaches for modeling failure mechanisms in a continuum, the DECM does not require prior knowledge of the failure position. Furthermore, the DECM solves the problems in the space domain directly. Therefore, it does not require any dynamic relaxation techniques to obtain the static solution. For the sake of example, the paper shows the results offered by the DECM for axial and shear loading of a composite two-dimensional domain with periodic round inclusions. The paper also offers some insights into how the inclusions modify the stress field into composite continua.
Padrões recentes de inserção e mobilidade no trabalho doméstico no Brasil metropolitano: descontinuidades e persistências
Authors: Giardini Simões Larissa , Hermeto Ana Maria
Published: December 2019

Essencialmente feminino, negro e pobre, o emprego doméstico é tratado diferentemente até mesmo pela legislação. Esse artigo tem o objetivo de identificar como o ciclo de vida, geração e outras características individuais da mulher, assim como fatores conjunturais, afetam a chance de estar e permanecer no emprego doméstico remunerado, no Brasil metropolitano em anos recentes. Dados da Pesquisa Mensal do Emprego, de 2002 a 2015, foram utilizados em uma modelagem log-linear de idade, período e coorte das frequências de transição e imobilidade de categorias de ocupação. A conjuntura tem o maior efeito, seguido de coorte. Essa é uma ocupação que está encolhendo e “envelhecendo”: menos jovens estão se tornando domésticas enquanto mulheres mais velhas ocupam cada vez mais espaço, combinando o adiamento da saída do mercado de trabalho com a menor mobilidade ocupacional em uma fase mais avançada da vida. Além disso, existe uma grande influência em ser negra na inserção/mobilidade ocupacional que está mudando entre as coortes. Entretanto, a diferença na probabilidade entre brancas e negras de trabalharem como domésticas permanece constante. Ainda, o emprego doméstico possui maior mobilidade do que os demais, indo contra a noção prévia de “armadilha da ocupação”, sendo a aparente mobilidade devida às características individuais das trabalhadoras.
Underutilization of instructional materials for teaching and learning of Chemistry in Nigerian secondary schools: Ohafia Education Zone, Abia State’s Example.
Authors: Obiyo Ngozi
Published: December 2019

This study investigated the factors associated with underutilization of instructional materials for teaching and learning of Chemistry in Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted for the study. The study population comprised 86 Chemistry teachers and 1,180 Senior Secondary 2 (SS2) Chemistry students including those with special needs in the 86 public secondary schools in Ohafia Education Zone, Abia State in southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria. The sample size was 456 respondents of 57 Chemistry teachers and 399 SS 2 Chemistry students selected through multi-stage sampling procedure. The data collection was by questionnaire and Cronbach Alpha was applied in computing the reliability estimate of 0.97. The findings indicated that the inability of teachers to improvise and their lack of manipulative skills, among others, are factors militating against the utilization of instructional materials. The researchers recommended the necessity for adequate provision of instructional materials in the schools and for teachers to ensure that these materials are effectively utilized. Students with special needs should be catered for based on their individualized education program as stipulated by the National Policy on Education in inclusive settings.
East African Higher Education and the limitations of institutional reforms: A case study of selected public universities
Authors: Sanga Philipo
Published: December 2019

Globally, universities are engaged in various aspects of reforms to improve their outlook and relevance. In East Africa, despite the similarities in many dimensions of socio-economic conditions, universities vary in terms of focus and extent of engagement in educational reforms. In order to examine this phenomenon more closely, three purposely-selected East African public universities were studied. Analysis of related documents as complemented by responses from key officials of these institutions revealed several findings: the University of Dar es Salaam’s reforms seemed to conform more to characteristics of competitiveness-driven reforms, the University of Nairobi exhibits equity-driven reform, and Makerere University practises finance-driven reforms. Furthermore, the findings register limitations of effective institutional reforms such as massification of higher education, infringement of university autonomy, emerging technologies, paradox of internationalization, and the incapacity to cater to holistic students’ welfare. The study concluded that, despite the myriad of limitations that the universities face, they have numerous opportunities which if efficiently utilized will enable them run the higher education race more triumphantly. The paper recommends that strategies for reforms should not derail the universities from their mandate to serve their respective countries.
Low Bone Mineral Density Could Predict Cognitive Impairment during the Acute and Recovery Phases of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lee Sang-Hwa , Jang Min Uk , Kim Yerim , Park So Young , Kim Chulho , Kim Yeo Jin , Sohn Jong-Hee
Published: December 2019

Background Little is known about the effect of osteoporosis at the acute and recovery phase of stroke on cognitive function. We evaluated the effect of osteoporosis on cognitive function in patients with ischemic stroke aged >50 years. Methods We retrospectively examined consecutive patients with acute stroke hospitalized between 2016 and 2018. Osteoporosis was defined as a T score of <-2.5 for the femoral neck or lumbar spine bone mineral density. The primary outcome was cognitive impairment measured by the Korean Mini-Mental State Examination in the acute phase and recovery phase of ischemic stroke. The association between osteoporosis and the severity of cognitive impairment was investigated using a multivariate analysis. Results Of the 260 included subjects (107 men and 153 women), 70 (26.9%) had osteoporosis. Cognitive impairment was more severe in the osteoporosis group than in the non-osteoporosis group (30.5% versus 47.1%, p=0.001). After recovery phase of stroke, the proportion of patients with cognitive impairment remained higher in the osteoporosis group. The multivariate analysis revealed a correlation between a low femoral neck bone mineral density and severe cognitive impairment in the acute and recovery phases of stroke (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-12.79 in the acute phase and adjusted OR 11.17, 95% CI 1.12-110.98 in the recovery phase), whereas lumbar spine osteoporosis was not associated with cognitive impairment. Conclusions Low bone mineral density is associated with poor cognitive function in patients with acute stroke. Early bone mineral density assessments during acute stroke, particularly at the femoral neck, may be a useful marker of cognitive function.
TNFAIP3 in circulating and parenchymal myeloid lineage critically controls monocytes, monocytes-derived cells and microglia
Authors: Montarolo Francesca , Perga Simona , Tessarolo Carlotta , Spadaro Michela , Martire Serena , Bertolotto Antonio
Published: December 2019

Background. The intracellular ubiquitin-ending enzyme TNFAIP3 is one of the most potent inhibitor of the pro-inflammatory NF-kB pathway. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the TNFAIP3 locus have been associated to autoimmune inflammatory disorders, including Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Previously, we reported a TNFAIP3 down-regulated gene expression level in blood and specifically in CD14+ monocytes obtained from treatment naïve MS patients in comparison to healthy controls (HC). Notably, myeloid cells which include monocytes, exert a key role in the neuro-inflammatory pathogenic process of MS.Methods. Here, we evaluated the effect of the specific TNFAIP3 deficiency in myeloid cells including monocytes, monocyte-derived cells (M-MDC) and microglia analyzing the lymphoid organs and central nervous system (CNS) of experimental mice. The TNFAIP3 deletion is induced using conditional knock-out mice for the myeloid lineage. Flow cytometry and histological procedures were applied to evaluate the immune cell population of spleen, lymph nodes and bone marrow and the microglial cell density in CNS, respectively.Results. Here, we found that the deletion of TNFAIP3 in myeloid cells induces a reduced body weight, a decrease in the percentage number of M-MDC and of common monocyte and granulocyte precursor cells. We also reported that the deletion of TNFAIP3 in myeloid cells reports an increased microglial cell density in brain.Conclusions. Collectively, the results suggest that the presence of TNFAIP3 in myeloid cells critically controls the development of M-MDC in lymphoid organ and of microglia in brain.
Effect of Annickia polycarpa (Stten and Mass.) Annonaceae, leaf extract on chemo-suppression of hyperparasitemia, body weight, hematological indices and survivor time of Plasmodium berghei infested mice in the Peter’s test
Authors: Ayertey Frederick , Kumatia Emmanuel Kofi , Bagyour Godfrey Kyaakyile , Asare Kenneth Opare , Mbatchou Valantine Chi , Dabo Jonathan
Published: December 2019

Background: Malaria is an infectious disease that is spread through the bite of female anopheles mosquito resulting in the death of hundreds of thousands of people per year. Medicinal plants provide crude extracts and purified compounds for malaria treatment. Annickia polycarpa is one of such plants whose bark is used for this purpose. However, the antimalaria effect of its leaf is not known. We hereby report the investigation of antimalaria effect of A. polycarpa leaf. Methods: Antimalaria effect of the ethanol extract of A. polycarpa leaf (APLE) was investigated in P. berghei infested ICR mice in the Peter’s test. The effect of the extract on development and chemo-suppression of hyperparasitemia, reduction in body weight and mean survival time were evaluated. Full blood count analysis on the infected mice were performed to determine the effect of treatment with APLE on hematological indices such as red and white blood cells and platelets. Acute toxicity and phytochemical tests of the extract were also performed. Results: APLE administered orally at 50, 200 and 400 mg/kg produced profound dose-dependent chemo-suppressive effect of 89.37 – 95.50 % of P. berghei after 4 consecutive days of treatment which compares with 86.22 % obtained for Quinine 30 mg/kg i.m. under the same regimen. APLE also protected the mice against reduction in body weight associated with malaria which was P < 0.05 at 50 mg/kg. Furthermore, APLE promoted dose-dependent mean survival time in the Kaplan-Meier curve. Only 25.0 % of mice in the negative control group survived after 30 days compared to 100 % survival for mice in APLE 400 mg/kg and Quinine 30 mg/kg groups. The results from the full blood count shows that APLE caused (P < 0.05) dose dependent increase in RBC, HGB, HCT, WBCs, lymphocytes and platelets. The LD50 of APLE was above 5000 mg/kg p.o. Conclusions: APLE showed profound antimalaria effect with very high margin of safety. Hematological alterations that resulted from treatment of with APLE indicate significant improvement in general health and safe recovery from the parasitic attack. These findings show that the leaf of A. polycarpa can also be used to treat malaria.
Identifying the Biomarkers of Spinal Cord Injury and the effects of Neurotrophin-3 Based on MicroRNA and mRNA Signature
Authors: Qi Shuang , Li Zinan , Yu Shanshan
Published: December 2019

Background: To gain a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of spinal cord injury and the effects of Neurotrophin-3, differentially expressed microRNAs (DEmiRNAs) and genes (DEGs) were analyzed. Methods: The miRNA transcription profile of GSE82195 and the mRNA transcription profile of GSE82196 including dorsal root ganglion (DRG) tissue samples of normal adult rat (none, n=6), 10 weeks post-pyramidotomy, intramuscular AAV-1 GFP (injury, n=6) and 10 weeks post-pyramidotomy, intramuscular AAV-1 prepro-neurotrophin-3 (NT-3, n=6) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/). Then, differentially expressed RNAs (DERs) including DEmiRNAs and DEGs were identified using limma. The noise-robust soft clustering of the intersection DERs was performed using Mfuzz package. Additionally, the integrated miRNAs–targets regulatory network was constructed using Cytoscape. Finally, the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database 2019 update (http://ctd.mdibl.org/) were used to search the central nervous system injury related pathway. Results: A total of 444 DERs including 382 DEGs and 62 DEmiRNAs were screened between group injury and group none whlie 576 DERs including 523 DEGs and 55 DEmiRNAs were screened between group NT-3 and group injury. Moreover, 80 intersections DERs were identified.Two clusters were obtained including cluster 1 (including rno-miR-3072, rno-miR-667-5p and so on) and cluster 2 (OPRL1, GHSR and so on). DREs in cluster 1 were firstly significantly downregulated in group injury and subsequently were significantly upregulated in group NT-3. DERs in cluster 2 were firstly upregulated in group injury and subsequently downregulated in group NT-3. OPRL1 and GHSR were enriched in the KEGG pathway of Neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction which is also found in the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database 2019 update. OPRL1 was involved in the chemical homeostasis and ion homeostasis while GHSR was related to the regulation of fatty acid metabolic process and regulation of cellular ketone metabolic process. Conclusion: DEmiRNAs rno-miR-3072 and rno-miR-667-5p and DEGs OPRL1 and GHSR might participate in the pathogenesis of neurological injury and the neurotrophin-3 treatment. Keywords: spinal cord injury, differentially expressed miRNA, differentially expressed gene, regulatory network, Neurotrophin-3
Nicotinamide inhibits Heterotopic ossification decreasing Smad 1/5/8 phosphorylation
Authors: Quevedo Ivan , Rivas-Valdes Fernando , Gutierrez Soraya
Published: December 2019

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a condition in wich extra-skeletal bone formation occurs in soft tissues of the body. HO is formed in numerous clinical situations such as burns, neurological damage, post-combat trauma, hip surgery, etc. The most severe condition of heterotopic ossification is the pathology called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), wich is produced by a point mutation in the ACVR1 receptor gene, triggering its constitutive activation and a hyper-activation of the SMAD pathway. Different pharmacological treatments have been used to inhibit the progression of ossification outbreaks, but a low effectiveness has been reported. An alternative therapy is the use of nicotinamide where a delay in the appearance of ossification flare ups has been observed.
However, its effect on the SMAD-mediated signaling pathway is not known. In this work we use nicotinamide in culture of C2C12 cells in the presence or absence of the osteoinductive BMP-2 to investigate its effect on osteoblastogenesis. Through western blot, Inmmunocytochemistry and Real time PCR we investigated the effect of nicotinamide on the SMAD pathway and gene expression of genes involved in the pathology. Our results show that in the presence of nicotinamide a decrease in the osteoblast differentiation and in SMAD complex phosphorylation levels while expression of the ACVR1 BMP-2 receptor and Runx2 are not affected by the treatment. New evidence is provided regarding the mechanism by which nicotinamide acts. These findings could be helpful in the clinic for the treatment of diseases related to HO bone formation.
Effects of maternal smoking during pregnancy on congenital anomalies: Results from the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS)
Authors: Tsuchida Akiko , Hamazaki Kei , Kigawa Mika , Tanaka Tomomi , Ito Mika , Inadera Hidekuni
Published: December 2019

Objective
Tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemical compounds, tobacco smoking is a possible risk factor of congenital anomalies (CAs). Therefore, we investigated the relationship between maternal smoking during pregnancy and CAs in children. Drawing data from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS), gathered between January 2011 and March 2014, 91,626 pregnant Japanese women were included.

Results
Of 91,626 subjects examined, 2.4% (2,183) of their infants had “any CAs.” By smoking behavior; 1,256 (57.5%), 523 (23.9%), 271 (12.4%), and 136 (6.2%) subjects were in the “never smoked,” “quit before pregnancy,” “quit after pregnancy,” and “still smoking” groups, respectively. The odds ratios (OR) for any CAs were not significant when “quit before pregnancy,” or “quit after pregnancy,” groups were compared to the “never smoked” group. However, upon comparing “never smoked” group with the “still smoking” group regarding “any CAs,” the OR was significant (OR 1.38, 95% confidence interval, 1.13-1.69, p=0.002). This study showed association between smoking continuation during pregnancy and an increased risk of CAs. This study results may be used as the basis for recommending anti-smoking education for pregnant women, and younger yet-to-become pregnant women.
DYNAMIC PROBLEM OF FORMATION OF SECURITIES PORTFOLIO UNDER UNCERTAINTY CONDITIONS
Authors: Raskin Lev , Sira Oksana , Katkova Tetiana
Published: December 2019

The analysis of known methods for solving the problem of forming a portfolio of securities in the face of uncertainty is carried out. Traditionally, the problem is solved under the assumption that for each type of asset, the values of the main statistical characteristics of the random value of their profitability (mathematical expectation and variance) are known. At the same time, the variance of portfolio returns, which is minimized, is used as a criterion for portfolio optimization. Two alternative approaches to solving the formulated problem are proposed. The first of them provides a decision on the criterion of the probability that the random total portfolio return will not be lower than the given. It is assumed that the random return for each type of asset is distributed normally and the statistical characteristics of the respective densities are known. The original problem is reduced to the problem of maximizing the quadratic fractional criterion in the presence of linear constraints. To solve this non-standard optimization problem, a special iterative algorithm is proposed that implements the procedure for sequential improvement of the plan. The method converges and the computational procedure for obtaining a solution can be stopped by any of the standard criteria. The second approach considers the possibility of solving the problem under the assumption that the distribution densities of random asset returns are not known, however, based on the results of preliminary statistical processing of the initial data, estimates of the values of the main numerical characteristics for each of the assets are obtained. To solve the problem, a new mathematical apparatus is used – continuous linear programming, which is a generalization of ordinary linear programming to the case when the task variables are continuous. This method, in the considered problem, is based on solving an auxiliary problem: finding the worst-case distribution density of a random total portfolio return at which this total return does not reach an acceptable threshold with maximum probability. Now the main minimax problem is being solved: the formation of the best portfolio in the worst conditions. The resulting computational scheme leads to the problem of quadratic mathematical programming in the presence of linear constraints. Next, a method is proposed for solving the problem of forming a portfolio of securities, taking into account the real dynamics of the value of assets. The problem that arises in this case is formulated and solved in terms of the general theory of control, using the Riccati equation.
ANALYSIS OF PECULIARITY OF USAGE OF AUSTRIAN GERMAN IN SOCIOLINGUISTIC ASPECT
Authors: Karpik Mykola
Published: December 2019

The article presents the application of sociolinguistic methods of language study. The proposed research aimed at analyzing the functions of the Austrian variant of the German language in public contexts and disclosing some peculiarities of its use. The issue was addressed by analyzing sociolinguistic and statistic data that we had acquired in 2009–2019. A work with informants was one of the stages of our research. Within the framework of the study of Austrian German we surveyed 102 Austrian respondents, native speakers of the language variant, who represent various social groups and reside in different regions of Austria.
The analysis of the received responses showed that the majority of respondents comprehend the concept Austriacism not only in theory, but in practice as well for the bulk of Austriacisms, given as examples in the questionnaire, were known for the informants.
The respondents gave predominantly affirmative answers to the question “Do you consider Austriacisms to be the recognized word stock of the standard language?” The use of Austriacisms is also majorly not considered obsolete, hens we can conclude, that Austrian German is a modern colloquial language. These results demonstrate the positive attitude to Austriacisms. Approximately half of the surveyed (49%) showed no awareness of Record 10 on the use of the specific Austrian terms in the German language and this result is seen quite expected. Only 7 % of the surveyed were able to name the number of expressions in this Record. Other responses allow us to address Austriacims as an intrinsic part of Austrian culture and history.
A surprising response we received to the question “Would you like Austriacisms to be used by the residents of other German speaking countries?” given by 40 % of the respondents answering Yes. However, the following responses show that the Austrians consider Austriacisms a factor of identity formation, so they would object to the usage by the non-Austrians.
Therefore, the hypothesis, formed at the beginning of our research, has found some evidence to support it. The results of experimental use of Austriacisms make it possible to draw the following conclusions:
Austrian German is an essential however secondary means of communication in Austria; its use reflects Austrian social reality and national culture. Austrian German acts as an element of Austrian national identity, thus, a further research on its communicative role is an essential task for modern German Studies.
DENTAL CARIES PROGNOSIS BY NEURAL NETWORK COMPUTER TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Udod Oleksandr , Voronina Hanna
Published: December 2019

Computer technologies are widely implemented in clinical dental practice. The use of computer neural network programs in predicting dental caries as the most common dental disease is quite relevant.

The aim – to study the effectiveness of using the “CariesPro” computer program developed using neural network technologies in the individual prediction of dental caries in persons of all ages.

Materials and methods. We examined 73 persons aged 6–7, 12–15 and 35–44 years, in which the intensity of dental caries was determined taking into account the number of cavities, the hygiene condition of the oral cavity, the structural and functional acid resistance of the enamel of the teeth according to the enamel resistance test and its functional component. The data were added to a neural based computer software program “CariesPro” designed to predict dental caries. After 1 year, a second examination was performed and the dental caries obtained were compared with the individually predicted computer program.

Results. The highest intensity of dental caries was found in persons aged 35–44 – 6.69±0.38, in children 6–7 and 12–15 years it was 3.85±0.27 and 2.15±0.24, respectively (p <0.05). After 1 year, the corresponding intensity indices for persons of these age categories were 8.92±0.52; 6.27±0.35 and 4.23±0.2. The growth rates of caries intensity were, respectively, 2.23±0.25; 2.42±0.15 and 2.09±0.15. After comparing the re-survey data with the computer-programmed estimate, the probable number of carious cavities was found to be 61 true and 12 false predictions from the entire sample, the prediction accuracy of the constructed and trained neural network was 83.56 %.

Conclusion. The “CariesPro” computer program, developed using neural network technologies, allows to predict the number of carious lesions in a year with a probability of 83.56 %.