bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forest and Society: Initiating a Southeast Asia Journal for Theoretical, Empirical, and Regional Scholarship
Authors: Fisher Micah , Maryudi Ahmad , Sahide Muhammad Alif K.
Published: April 2017

Welcome to our first edition. We are excited to provide a new, and what we believe, timely avenue for presenting research findings and publications in Southeast Asia, for scholars interested in Southeast Asia. Although Southeast Asia as a region of study has provided tremendous contributions to theory and practice regarding forests and society across the social and natural sciences, avenues for cultivating a scholarship of the region remain limited. We seek to engage on a broad set of themes through the application of targeted research related to timely issues affecting the human-environment interface in a diverse region that we have much to learn from. We take a broad understanding of the forest - as a politico-administrative unit, a geographic area, and as an ecological unit. We do not limit the forest to its boundaries but rather seek to engage on the dynamics of change in social and ecological processes. Under such an umbrella, new approaches and methods become possible. ‘Forest’ can be analyzed as land use, ecological process, divided across watersheds, as landscapes, mountains, and more. The lens of ‘society’ allows for opportunities to understand change, whether it is the interaction between a resource to be preserved, exploited, forgotten, or erased. Forests, therefore, operate as the clues of what once was, has become, and what can be. Particularly in the age of climate change, riddled by increasingly complex challenges, a new dimension also emerges for the forest. Different perspectives at different scales – from the local to the global – provide equally important dimensions, and are those which we seek to provide avenues to learn from, and communicate through this journal. As the reader will find in this inaugural issue, we have compiled an initial set of studies across multiple methods and geographies that help to set the terms of future editions. We examine: historical political ecologies of land use around opium cultivation in the uplands of Thailand; emerging governance regimes of corporate social responsibility in Myanmar; the capacity of new state institutions to manage land conflict in forest estate lands in Indonesia; a close analysis of forest harvesting and management in a mangrove forest in Malaysia; and, an economic valuation of non-timber forest products in a national park in Indonesia. There is much to choose from and much more to delve into. We hope that this issue serves as an impetus to engage on these timely themes and further encourages new ideas for submissions.
Analisis Pengelolaan Keuangan Daerah Di Kota Jayapura Pada Era Otonomi Khusus
Authors: Hutajulu Halomoan
Published: April 2017

The implementation of the Special Autonomy (Special Autonomy) in accordance with Law No. 21, 2001, is an effort to accelerate the development and distribution of areas in the city of Jayapura. Implementation OTSUS is the equation of regional autonomy of local governments and financial management. The purpose of this study to analyze the financial management aspects of the area in terms of effectiveness, and budget planning after special autonomy, and justice analyze budget allocations. Quantitative analysis of the research approach consisting of a horizontal analysis, vertical analysis, and conversion analysis. The results showed that the effectiveness of the financial management of Jayapura city district in the Special Autonomy less effective, analysis of revenue and revenue growth ratio high of 37.33 percent and lowest 6.07. Ratio highest balanced fund 49.55 percent in 2006. Highest expenditure ratio reached 47.13 percent. The results showed a tendency analyst highest revenue growth in 2009 of Rp45.103 Billion, followed by the highest propensity balanced fund Rp567.980 Billion in 2009, the trend of the highest expenditures Rp451.190 Billion in 2009, the highest real development expenditure Rp208.063 Billion in 2008, the highest absorbed construction Rp147.418 Billion in 2006. Financial planning area is under estimated to PAD, whereas the conversion of the budget shows the budget surplus in 2002 and 2007.
Evaluasi Penerapan Prosedur Operasional Standar Pengelolaan Keuangan Daerah di Provinsi Papua
Authors: Christy Yemima Eka , Kurniawati Elisabeth Penti
Published: April 2017

Implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in the regional financial management should be conducted based on an internal control system in the local government. When conducting the examination, BPK shall examine and assess the internal control system of the local government. Thus, if the internal control system of the local government is adequate, then compliance toward SOP can be implemented, and the results of the testing and examination of BPK is expected to give a favorable opinion. The provincial government of Papua has decreased the results of the examination of financial statements for three consecutive years. In 2007-2009 the provincial government of Papua gets a qualified opinion, and in 2010 received a disclaimer opinion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate SOP application compliance of regional financial management, which can be known to through BPK examination report containing the findings and their opinions based on the criteria. The results showed that theProvincial Government of Papua has prepared SOP of its financial management in line with the rule in force. However, the SOP is not fully adhered to in practice, due to several factors: (1) weak of government internal control systems;(2) lack of financial management guidance and supervision.
Pengembangan Kewirausahaan Melalui Peningkatan Kinerja Karyawan
Authors: Sukirman Sukirman
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to analyze the impact of the employee's performance towards the development of entrepreneurship. This study of employee performance involved variables of creativity, innovation and motivation. It analyzed the impact of creativity, innovation and motivation towards employee performance; it also analyzed the impact of creativity, innovation and motivation for the development of entrepreneurship and analyzed the impact of employee performance towards the development of entrepreneurship. The study focused on ‘Jenang Kudus’small scale businesses in Kudus Regency that covered 396 firms (Department of Industry and Trade, Kudus Regency, 2010) and focused on the small scale businesses under the auspices of the Department of Industry and Trade. The population in this study were all ‘Jenang Kudus’ Small Scale Business companies in Kudus Regency. The sample consisted of 86 companies. The purposive sample technique was used by selecting samples of the small scale businesses in Kudus Regency. Data were collected by using questionnaires and in-depth interviews and they were analyzed by using descriptive method. Employee performance was affected by the creativity, innovation, and motivation. Creativity had a significant and strong direct impact to the employee performance that could create improved performance for employees. Innovation also had a significant and strong direct impact towards employee performance; it is the yardstick in carrying out the day-to-day development of the company so that innovation was needed to improve the performance of employees in the interest of the company. Motivation didn’t have any strong and significant impact towards employee performance, it means that motivation is needed to create the performance of employees, so that employees will feel more comfortable and secure in carrying out their job. Both creativity and innovation had strong and significant impact towards the development of entrepreneurship, and on the other hand, motivation had no strong and significant impact towards the development of entrepreneurship.
Faktor-Faktor Yang Berhubungan Dengan Tingkat Manfaat Bagi Penerima Beasiswa dan Peningkatan Kinerja SDM Unggul di Jambi Indonesia
Authors: Susilo Wilhelmus Hary
Published: April 2017

Organizer and better quality education strongly influenced by support funds. Hence, the government will provide support organizing of sustainable funding for education is good for all its citizens. This study is applied research aimed at giving them feedback implementer apply for the scholarship two models empirical short-term and long-term. Research methods used are quantitative data qualitative primary with the approach that can absorb aspirations from people. An examination used descriptive correlation-cross sectional. Results of testing the model A, Variable of information, requirements, mechanisms, level of adequacy, the use of cost has a positive and significant relationship with variable monitoring. Variables of information, requirements and the adequacy of monitoring, use and has a positive and significant relationship with variable benefits scholarships for the recipient. Variable selection mechanisms have a relationship that is negative and not significant to the variable benefit scholarships for the recipient. Research on Model B, which states that there is a significant relationship between variables; climate, financing, motivation, organization, job satisfaction and performance.
Does IFRS Convergence Promote the Value Relevance of Accounting Information?
Authors: Kristanto Ari Budi
Published: April 2017

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memperoleh bukti empiris mengenai adanya kandungan informasi, relevansi nilai informasi akuntansi dan pertumbuhannya selama proses konvergensi IFRS di Indonesia. Secara khusus penelitian ini dilakukan pada perusahaan perbankan, asuransi dan pembiayaan yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia. Kandungan informasi diindikasikan oleh Trading Volume Activity dan Variability of Abnormal Return. Adapun relevansi nilai informasi akuntansi diproksikan oleh koefisien regresi dari fungsi pengaruh informasi akuntansi terhadap harga saham. Hasil penelitian ini menemukan adanya kandungan informasi serta relevansi nilai informasi akuntansi selama periode konvergensi IFRS. Temuan empiris ini menjadi salah satu indikasi adanya manfaat konvergensi IFRS bagi relevansi nilai informasi akuntansi. Berkaitan dengan konvergensi itu sendiri, penelitian ini menemukan bahwa relevansi nilai informasi akuntansi mengalami peningkatan secara bertahap selama periode konvergensi. Relevansi nilai informasi akuntansi ditemukan pada perusahaan dengan rasio saham diperdagangkan yang tinggi serta perusahaan dengan saham yang tidak likuid. Relevansi nilai yang lebih tinggi juga ditemukan pada perusahaan yang terafiliasi dengan perusahaan dari negara yang mengadopsi IFRS.
Eksplorasi dan Perancangan Prototipe Aplikasi Kantor Maya Untuk Meningkatkan Sustainable Competitive Advantage di Perguruan Tinggi
Authors: Pasharibu Yusepaldo , Sunarto Hari , Sugiarto Agus , Silintowe Yunita Budi Rahayu
Published: April 2017

Sustainable competitive advantage for universities could not be separated from the information technology. Actually, some universities have been implemented this information technology, especially virtual office applications. Eventhough, the virtual office applications were implemented, but preliminary research found that those applications used were Online Transaction Processing only, not Online Analytical Processing that can be used to make decision. Based on those explanations, this research had been done to explore and design the virtual office prototype application for universities. Three methods were used to conduct this reseach, which were explorative, validation, and application design. Finally, prototype applications of virtual office dashboard, lecturer dashboard and accreditation dashboard to improve sustainable competitive advantage for universities were presented as this study result.
Memetakan Perubahan Organisasi Dalam Desain Learning Organization Pada Usaha Kecil Menengah di Kota Malang
Authors: Mulyono Sugeng , Kresnaini Enlik
Published: April 2017

This research aims at analyzing the implementation of learning organization at small and medium enterprises (SMEs); the effects of learning organization on individuals’ ability; the effects of individuals’ ability on SMEs changes; and the effects of learning organization on changes of SMEs. The population of this research is all SMEs located in Malang and the samples are 298 SMEs taken through multi stages sampling. The primary data were collected using a questionare and interviews, whereas the secondary were obtain from relevant documents. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and structural equational modelling (SEM). The results show that learning organization has a significant positive effect on individuals’ ability; the individuals’ ability has a significant positive effect on changes of SMEs; and learning organization has a significant positive effect on changes of SMEs, as indicated by C.R > 2 and value of P < 0,05.
Pengembangan Komoditas Batik: Determinasi Budaya Ekonomi dan Perubahan Struktur Kebijakan Terhadap Perkembangan Usaha Ekonomi Lokal (Studi Tentang Pengusaha Batik Laweyan Surakarta)
Authors: Setiawati Erma , Nursiam Nursiam , Zulfikar Zulfikar
Published: April 2017

Batik is an Indonesian national culture product that awarded by UNESCO as world cultural heritage. The research takes place in Kampung Batik Laweyan Surakarta which is the oldest and the center of the traditional batik industry in Indonesia. The purpose of this research is 1) to understand the characteristics of economic culture to look at the social culture of Laweyan Batik business, 2) to explain the development of batik trading which is supported by informal economic opportunities, 3) to analyze the changes in political (policy) structure and its anticipating setrategy. This research is a qualitative research using ethnographic approach. The results showed that 1) batik entrepreneurs in Laweyan characterized as bazaar economy culture with reciprocity social relationships, 2) the business relationship is based on trust, 3) government policy on financial assistance for the development of batik Laweyan plays an important role as anticipation to free trade.
Membangun Kinerja Usaha Melalui Faktor Pembentuk Kapabilitas Pelaku Kewirausahaan Industri Kreatif Nasional
Authors: Hermawan Iwan , PS VS Tripriyo
Published: April 2017

One of national creative industry roadmap key aspect is the character capability of businessmen. This research aims to empirically define the factors forming the entrepreneurial capabilities of creative industries and its impact on business performance. Art and creative technology industries in three cities in Indonesia, including Denpasar, Jogjakarta and Surakarta are used as samples. The factor analysis is employed to define the presence of three factors-which forming capabilities of national entrepreneurial creative industries, including: (1) internal management-risk management, (2) independence and anti-plagiarism design, and (3) the unique design and renewable idea. The statistic test finds the significant influence of entrepreneurial capabilities of creative industries on business performance. While internal management-risk management is the dominant factor contributing the business performance. Some other findings are national entrepreneurs have understood that the concept, idea, and knowledge were the main capital to accelerate the national creative economy. The entrepreneurs also understand the importance of self-reliance and anti-plagiarism design. But on the other hand, the majority of them have dominant of the external locus of control.
Month of the Year Effect Pada Beberapa Pasar Modal di Asia Tenggara dan Pasar Komoditas
Authors: Robiyanto Robiyanto
Published: April 2017

One of prominent phenomenon in capital market is month of the year effect which is the occurence of certain monthly pattern in capital market return during trading years. There were enormous researches, which had been done to explain this phenomenon in capital market but the results always varied. Unfortunately there was a few research to explain this phenomenon in commodities market. Based on these facts, research about this seasonality still need to be done both in capital market and commodities market. Data used in this study were several South East Asia monthly closing stock market indexes and several commodity product monthly closing prices such as gold, silver, platinum, paladium and West Texas Intermediate Crude Oil during January 1999 – March 2014 period. GARCH (1,1) was employed to analyze the data. The finding shows that month of the year effect still exist in capital market in South East Asia and commodity market during research period with various occurences. Each capital market and commodity market behaves variously during trading year. This may lead to an opportunity, which can be grabbed by active market switching strategy for sophisticated investors, and investors who have multiple access to regional capital markets and commodity markets.
Perbedaan Earnings Management Berdasarkan pada Tahapan Life Cycle Perusahaan yang Terdaftar di Bei
Authors: Restuti MI Mitha Dwi , Widyaningrum Luluk
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to find out the differences in the earnings management practice based on the company life cycle (growth , mature ,and stagnant). The samples of this study consists of 224 companies in all sectors except the financial and banking, which were listed in Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) during 2010-2012. This study used a Kruskal Wallis test to examine whether there were differences the earnings management practice between each level of the life cycle. The results of the study showed that there were no differences in earnings management practice at each level of the life cycle. Afterward, the earnings management practices between growth and mature level, and between mature, and stagnant level are compared. The result showed that there was a significant difference between the earnings management practice by the companies in the growth and mature level, but there was no significant difference in earnings management practice by the companies in mature
and stagnant level.
Anteseden Dan Konsekuensi Audit Delay Pada Perusahaan Perbankan Perioda 2011-2014
Authors: Tehupuring Ronald , Sitanala Theresia Febiengry
Published: April 2017

Timeliness in financial reporting can contribute to efficient performance for the stock market because it can reduce the asymmetry information, mitigate insider trading, and improve the usefulness decision of information to stakeholders. There were inconsistencies in prior research and the case of delay submission on issuer financial statements to the Financial Service Authority.  There were 30 cases for each in 2013 and 2014. This study aimed to examine (1) the negative impact between the company size, profitability, leverage, and the auditor quality on audit delay; (2) the positive impact of audit delay on audit switching; and (3) the positive impact of audit delay and audit delay switching on audit quality in banking companies listed on the Stock Exchange 2011-2014 period. A purposive sampling method is used and as the sample, 30 companies are obtained in four years so the analyzed data was based on 120 observations. The data analysis technique used is multiple linear and logistic regression. Results showed that (1) the size of the company and leverage have no impact on audit delay, while the return on assets and the auditor quality have a negative impact and significantly related to audit delay; (2) audit delay has a positive impact and significantly related to audit switching; (3) audit delay has a positive impact and significantly related to audit quality, while audit switching has no impact on audit quality. This study has contributed in optimizing timeliness performance of financial information reporting, effectiveness and efficiency of audit time range so that general  information increased, and The implication for audit quality of financial statements become more reliable. 
Hepatitis E and blood donation safety in selected European countries: a shift to screening?
Authors: Domanović Dragoslav , Tedder Richard , Blümel Johannes , Zaaijer Hans , Gallian Pierre , Niederhauser Christoph , Sauleda Oliveras Silvia , O’Riordan Joan , Boland Fiona , Harritshøj Lene , Nascimento Maria São José , Ciccaglione Anna Rita , Politis Constatina , Adlhoch Cornelia , Flan Benoit , Oualikene-Gonin Wahiba , Rautmann Guy , Strengers Paul , Hewitt Patricia
Published: April 2017

The public health implications of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Europe have changed due to increasing numbers of hepatitis E cases and recent reports of chronic, persistent HEV infections associated with progression to cirrhosis in immunosuppressed patients. The main infectious risk for such immunosuppressed patients is exposure to undercooked infected pork products and blood transfusion. We summarised the epidemiology of HEV infections among blood donors and also outlined any strategies to prevent transfusion-transmitted HEV, in 11 European countries. In response to the threat posed by HEV and related public and political concerns, most of the observed countries determined seroprevalence of HEV in donors and presence of HEV RNA in blood donations. France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom (UK) reported cases of transfusion-transmitted HEV. Ireland and the UK have already implemented HEV RNA screening of blood donations; the Netherlands will start in 2017. Germany and France perform screening for HEV RNA in several blood establishments or plasma donations intended for use in high-risk patients respectively and, with Switzerland, are considering implementing selective or universal screening nationwide. In Greece, Portugal, Italy and Spain, the blood authorities are evaluating the situation. Denmark decided not to implement the HEV screening of blood donations.
Balance Assessment Practices of Saskatchewan Physiotherapists: A Brief Report of Survey Findings
Authors: Oates Alison , Arnold Catherine , Walker-Johnston JoAnn , Van Ooteghem Karen , Oliver Ainsley , Yausie Jennifer , Loucks Nicole , Bailey Kelly , Lemieux Justin , Sibley Kathryn M.
Published: April 2017

Purpose: This study was conducted to determine the balance assessment practices of physiotherapists in Saskatchewan. Methods: Practising physiotherapists who assess and treat adults with balance and mobility impairments were eligible to participate in this cross-sectional, online survey. The questions investigated the use of balance assessment measures, the balance components assessed, and practice area. Results: Of the 72 respondents, most reported regularly assessing five or more of the nine balance components listed. Movement observation was the most commonly reported measure used, followed by the Berg Balance Scale, single-leg stance test, and tandem standing/walking. Conclusions: Most physiotherapists in Saskatchewan use a variety of tools to assess balance. Gaps in practices related to fall prevention were noted in the mismatch between the tools used and the components reportedly assessed.
Coupled neutronic core and subchannel analysis of nanofluids in VVER-1000 type reactor
Authors: Zarifi E. , Jahanfarnia G. , Sepanloo K.
Published: April 2017

This study is aimed to perform the coupled thermal-hydraulic/neutronic analysis of nanofluids as the coolant in the hot fuel assembly of VVER-1000 reactor core. Water-based nanofluid containing various volume fractions of Al2O3 nanoparticle is analyzed. WIMS and CITATION codes are used for neutronic simulation of the reactor core, calculating neutron flux and thermal power distribution. In the thermal-hydraulic modeling, the porous media approach is used to analyze the thermal behavior of the reactor core and the subchannel analysis is used to calculate the hottest fuel assembly thermal-hydraulic parameters. The derived conservation equations for coolant and conduction heat transfer equation for fuel and clad are discretized by Finite volume method and solved numerically using visual FORTRAN program. Finally the analysis results for nanofluids and pure water are compared together. The achieved results show that at low concentration (0.1 percent volume fraction) alumina is the optimum nanoparticles for normal reactor operation.
Precise Fabrication of Fresnel Flash Lens Featured with V-Grooved Microstructures
Authors: Huang M.-S. , Chen Y.-C.
Published: April 2017

A Fresnel lens is characterized by a micrometer-sized v-grooved structure, and its microstructure quality and curvature accuracy strongly influence its illuminance performance. In this study, a mold is designed for fabricating a Fresnel flash lens involving injection compression molding (ICM). The Taguchi method and parametric analysis are applied to examine the effect of process parameters (mold temperature, melt temperature, injection speed, packing pressure, compression pressure, and time) on the molding quality. Increasing the mold temperature and packing pressure generally improves the polymer melt fill in microsized cavities. ICM enables the realization of v-grooved microstructures with an accurate height replication rate (96.1%) as well as high curvature accuracy (6 μm), creating good optical qualities of the fabricated Fresnel lens with respect to maximum illuminance and illuminance uniformity.
Flow Behavior of PP-Polymer Nanocomposites in Capillary and Injection Molding Dies
Authors: Mitsoulis E. , Battisti M. , Neunhäuserer A. , Perko L. , Friesenbichler W.
Published: April 2017

For simulation of thin-wall injection molding, accurate viscosity data measured at shear rates up to 800,000 s−1 and more are important, but not available in any commercial material database. Such data can be measured on conventional injection molding machines with the help of a rheological mold, which is constructed like a standard injection mold with interchangeable dies. It enables operators to measure viscosity in time on their own machines at practically relevant shear rates (from 102 s−1 to 2 × 106 s−1). A special feature allows measuring the pressure dependency of viscosity using closed-loop counter pressure control. Experimental data are evaluated taking into account the melt temperature rise due to dissipative heating. Using capillary dies having different diameters, D, and length-to-diameter L/D ratios, a full rheological characterization has been carried out for a polypropylene-filled nanocomposite, and the experimental data have been fitted both with a viscous model (Cross) and a viscoelastic one (the Kaye – Bernstein, Kearsley, Zapas/Papanastasiou, Scriven, Macosko or K-BKZ/PSM model). Four injection molding dies have been also used to reach apparent shear rates up to 800,000 s−1. Particular emphasis has been given on the pressure-dependence of viscosity. It was found that only the viscoelastic simulations were capable of reproducing the experimental data well, while any viscous modeling always underestimates the pressures, especially at the higher apparent shear rates and L/D ratios.
Neuropsychological Profile in the C9ORF72 Associated Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Suhonen Noora-Maria , Haanpää Ramona M. , Korhonen Ville , Jokelainen Jari , Pitkäniemi Anni , Heikkinen Anna-Leena , Krüger Johanna , Hartikainen Päivi , Helisalmi Seppo , Hiltunen Mikko , Hänninen Tuomo , Remes Anne M.
Published: April 2017

While the C9ORF72 expansion is a major cause of behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), little is known of the resultant cognitive profile. Our aim was to characterize the neuropsychological profile of the C9ORF72 associated bvFTD. We contrasted structured neuropsychological assessments of the C9ORF72 expansion carrier bvFTD patients ( n = 26) with non-carrier bvFTD patients ( n = 47) and those with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) ( n = 47). As compared to the non-carrier bvFTD patients, the C9ORF72 expansion carriers performed at a higher level in an immediate verbal memory test while showing poorer phonemic verbal fluency. Additionally, the expansion carriers committed more errors in the Stroop test and the Alternating S task relative to the non-carriers. Finally, while the AD patients outperformed both bvFTD patient groups in working memory, their performance was more impaired in episodic memory tasks relative to the bvFTD groups. We conclude that bvFTD patients carrying the C9ORF72 expansion may display more pronounced executive deficits together with less severe verbal memory impairment as compared to their non-carrier bvFTD counterparts. Knowledge of the specific neuropsychological features associated with the C9ORF72 related bvFTD may aid in the early diagnosis of the disease as well as in targeting genetic testing.
Cognitive Domain Dispersion Association with Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology
Authors: Malek-Ahmadi Michael , Lu Sophie , Chan YanYan , Perez Sylvia E. , Chen Kewei , Mufson Elliott J.
Published: April 2017

Within neuropsychology, the term dispersion refers to the degree of variation in performance between different cognitive domains for an individual. Previous studies have demonstrated that cognitively normal individuals with higher dispersion are at an increased risk for progressing to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Therefore, we determined 1) whether increased dispersion in older adults was associated with amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and 2) whether increased cognitive dispersion accurately differentiated MCI and AD from non-cognitively impaired (NCI) individuals. The intra-subject standard deviation (ISD) was used to quantify cognitive dispersion, and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis determined whether ISD differentiated MCI and AD from NCI. Neuropathological scores for diffuse plaques (DPs), neuritic plaques (NPs), and NFTs were used as outcome measures in a series of negative binomial regression models. Regression analyses found that increased ISD was associated with increased NFT pathology (β= 10.93, SE = 3.82, p = 0.004), but not with DPs (β= 1.33, SE = 8.85, p = 0.88) or NPs (β= 14.64, SE = 8.45, p = 0.08) after adjusting for age at death, gender, education, APOE ɛ4 status, and clinical diagnosis. An interaction term of ISD with age at death also showed a significant negative association (β= –0.13, SE = 0.04, p = 0.004), revealing an age-dependent association between ISD with NFTs. The ISD failed to show an acceptable level of diagnostic accuracy for MCI (AUC = 0.60). These findings suggest that increased cognitive dispersion is related to NFT pathology where age significantly affects this association.
A Multifunctional Biocompatible Drug Candidate is Highly Effective in Delaying Pathological Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease in 5XFAD Mice
Authors: Segal-Gavish Hadar , Danino Ortal , Barhum Yael , Ben-Zur Tali , Shai Ella , Varon David , Offen Daniel , Fischer Bilha
Published: April 2017

Background: Metal-ion-chelation was suggested to prevent zinc and copper ions-induced amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation and oxidative stress, both implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In a quest for biocompatible metal-ion chelators potentially useful for AD therapy, we previously tested a series of nucleoside 5’-phosphorothioate derivatives as agents for decomposition of Cu(I)/Cu(II)/Zn(II)-Aβ-aggregates, and as inhibitors of OH radicals formation in Cu(I) or Fe(II) /H2O2 solution. Specifically, in our recent study we have identified 2-SMe-ADP(α-S), designated as SAS, as a most promising neuroprotectant.

Objective: To further explore SAS ability to protect the brain from Aβ toxicity both in vitro and in vivo.

Methods: We evaluated SAS ability to decompose or inhibit the formation of Aβ42-M(II) aggregates, and rescue primary neurons and astrocytes from Aβ42 toxicity. Furthermore, we aimed at exploring the therapeutic effect of SAS on behavioral and cognitive deficits in the 5XFAD mouse model of AD.

Results: We found that SAS can rescue primary culture of neurons and astrocytes from Aβ42 toxicity and to inhibit the formation and dissolve Aβ42-Zn(II)/Cu(II) aggregates. Furthermore, we show that SAS treatment can prevent behavioral disinhibition and ameliorate spatial working memory deficits in 5XFAD mice. Notably, the mice were treated at the age of 2 months, before the onset of AD symptoms, for a duration of 2 months, while the effect was demonstrated at the age of 6 months.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that SAS has the potential to delay progression of core pathological characteristics of AD in the 5XFAD mouse model.
Tau Oligomers in Sera of Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease and Aged Controls
Authors: Kolarova Michala , Sengupta Urmi , Bartos Ales , Ricny Jan , Kayed Rakez
Published: April 2017

Although tau protein was long regarded as an intracellular protein with several functions inside the cell, new evidence has shown tau secretion into the extracellular space. The active secretion of tau could be a physiological response of neurons to increased intracellular amounts of tau during the progression of tau pathology. We looked for potential differences in the serum levels of toxic tau oligomers in regards to cognitive impairment of subjects. We detected tau oligomers in the serum of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients, but they were also present to some extent in the serum of healthy older subjects where the levels positively correlated with aging (Spearman r = 0.26, p = 0.016). On the contrary, we found lower levels of tau oligomers in the serum of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) ( p = 0.033) and MCI-AD ( p = 0.006) patients. These results could suggest that clearance of extracellular tau proteins takes place, in part, in the periphery. In the case of MCI patients, the lower levels of tau oligomers could be the result of impaired clearance of tau protein from interstitium to blood and consequent accumulation of tau aggregates in the brain.
Study on Goitre In The Villages of Sirajgonj In Bangladesh
Authors: Badaruddin Md , Uddin Md Borhan , Khatun Mst Firoza , Mim Afroza
Published: April 2017

A total of 551 subjects were studied, 363 males and 188 females in some villages in Sirajgonj. The purpose of the study was to unravel the relation of goitre to intake of iodized-salt, mustard oil and cabbage. In our study the prevalence of goitre was 28.13%, in which the goitre of grade 1 and grade 2 was 21.96% and 6.17% respectively. In our study males were suffering more than the females. In this study goitre prevalence in those taking iodized salt was 28.57% and in those taking non-iodized salt was 28.05%. It is wonder to note that after more than two decades of enacting iodized salt more than 80% took non-iodized salt and even then the prevalence of goitre in the two groups were almost identical, with utter surprise goitre prevalence was more in those who took iodized salt. In this study goitre prevalence in those taking mustard oil was 28.6% and in those taking non-mustard oil was 24.14%. Goitre prevalence was much more in those who took mustard oil than those who took non-mustard oil. In this study goitre prevalence in those taking cabbage was 28.12% and in those taking non-cabbage was 28.21%.KYAMC Journal Vol. 5, No.-2, Jan 2015, Page 524-526
Pathogenesis and Factors associated with Insulin Resistance
Authors: Rahman Md Atiqur , Sajani Tabassum Tahmin , Alo Kamrunnahar
Published: April 2017

Insulin resistance has been the subject of much debate over the last two decades. Its pathophysiological basis, however, still remains to be clearly understood. Both genetic and environmental factors have been implicated in its pathogenesis. Mutation of genes encoding signal transduction molecules of insulin and acquired factors like aging, diets, physical activity, obesity and related molecular changes, dyslipidemia, hypertension and smoking were proposed by many groups. This review examined both acquired and genetic factors and discussed model of hormone-receptor-postreceptor interactions to explore the molecular basis of insulin resistance.KYAMC Journal Vol. 5, No.-2, Jan 2015, Page 527-532
Edmund Spenser and Transhistorical Memory in Ireland
Authors: Frawley Oona
Published: April 2017

Edmund Spenser has been beleaguered by some critics who deem him to be a willing and active representative of the worst of English colonial aspirations, and defended by others who see him as a humanist poet caught in the closing jaws of an imperial mission. This vacillation of opinion is seen in the rewriting of Spenser by Irish writers over time. Spenser has also haunted Irish critical work, moving through the contemporary academy in a swift transmission beginning in the 1980s, when ‘Spenser and Ireland’ became a subject of some significance. Yet now, only thirty years later, that attention has been diverted, leaving Spenser, in an Irish context at least, as a placeholder of memory. This essay considers key moments or changes in the rewriting of Spenser's cultural memory in Ireland, considering the long duration of his figuring in Irish literature and culture as a case study of transhistorical memory.
Adaptive Mutation Dynamic Search Fireworks Algorithm
Authors: Li Xi-Guang , Han Shou-Fei , Zhao Liang , Gong Chang-Qing , Liu Xiao-Jing
Published: April 2017

The Dynamic Search Fireworks Algorithm (dynFWA) is an effective algorithm for solving optimization problems. However, dynFWA easily falls into local optimal solutions prematurely and it also has a slow convergence rate. In order to improve these problems, an adaptive mutation dynamic search fireworks algorithm (AMdynFWA) is introduced in this paper. The proposed algorithm applies the Gaussian mutation or the Levy mutation for the core firework (CF) with mutation probability. Our simulation compares the proposed algorithm with the FWA-Based algorithms and other swarm intelligence algorithms. The results show that the proposed algorithm achieves better overall performance on the standard test functions.
Evaluation of a Simplified Method to Estimate the Peak Inter-Story Drift Ratio of Steel Frames with Hysteretic Dampers
Authors: Kang Jae-Do , Mori Yasuhiro
Published: April 2017

In this paper, a simplified method is proposed to estimate the peak inter-story drift ratios of steel frames with hysteretic dampers. The simplified method involved the following: (1) the inelastic spectral displacement is estimated using a single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) system with multi-springs, which is equivalent to a steel frame with dampers and in which multi-springs represent the hysteretic behavior of dampers; (2) the first inelastic mode vector is estimated using a pattern of story drifts obtained from nonlinear static pushover analysis; and (3) the effects of modes higher than the first mode are estimated by using the jth modal period, jth mode vector, and jth modal damping ratio obtained from eigenvalue analysis. The accuracy of the simplified method is estimated using the results of nonlinear time history analysis (NTHA) on a series of three-story, six-story, and twelve-story steel moment resisting frames with steel hysteretic dampers. Based on the results of a comparison of the peak inter-story drift ratios estimated by the simplified method and that computed via NTHA using an elaborate analytical model, the accuracy of the simplified method is sufficient for evaluating seismic demands.
An All Sol-Gel Process for the Heteroepitaxial Growth of YBa2Cu3O7−x/LaNiO3/YBa2Cu3O7−x Tri-layer
Authors: Wu Chuanbao , Zhao Gaoyang , Fang Po , Wang Shasha , Zhang Ye
Published: April 2017

The preparation of a YBa2Cu3O7−x/LaNiO3/YBa2Cu3O7−x sandwich structured film on a LaAlO3 (100) substrate by a sol-gel method was investigated. YBa2Cu3O7−x/LaNiO3/YBa2Cu3O7−x tri-layer heterostructures with different epitaxial characteristics can be deposited by controlling the heat treatment temperature. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy results show that the bottom YBCO film grows epitaxially on the LaAlO3 substrate along the c axis, and that this epitaxial growth trend is extended to the subsequently deposited LaNiO3 film. For this reason, the LaNiO3 film also grows epitaxially along the c axis. Furthermore, this epitaxial growth trend is extended to the top YBa2Cu3O7−x film, yielding YBa2Cu3O7−x/LaNiO3/YBa2Cu3O7−x tri-layer heterostructures with epitaxial growth characteristics along the c axis, which enables both the bottom and top YBa2Cu3O7−x layers to possess superconducting abilities.
Tree Diseases as a Cause and Consequence of Interacting Forest Disturbances
Authors: Cobb Richard , Metz Margaret
Published: April 2017

The disease triangle is a basic and highly flexible tool used extensively in forest pathology. By linking host, pathogen, and environmental factors, the model provides etiological insights into disease emergence. Landscape ecology, as a field, focuses on spatially heterogeneous environments and is most often employed to understand the dynamics of relatively large areas such as those including multiple ecosystems (a landscape) or regions (multiple landscapes). Landscape ecology is increasingly focused on the role of co-occurring, overlapping, or interacting disturbances in shaping spatial heterogeneity as well as understanding how disturbance interactions mediate ecological impacts. Forest diseases can result in severe landscape-level mortality which could influence a range of other landscape-level disturbances including fire, wind impacts, and land use among others. However, apart from a few important exceptions, these disturbance-disease interactions are not well studied. We unite aspects of forest pathology with landscape ecology by applying the disease-triangle approach from the perspective of a spatially heterogeneous environment. At the landscape-scale, disturbances such as fire, insect outbreak, wind, and other events can be components of the environmental ‘arm’ of the disease triangle, meaning that a rich base of forest pathology can be leveraged to understand how disturbances are likely to impact diseases. Reciprocal interactions between disease and disturbance are poorly studied but landscape ecology has developed tools that can identify how they affect the dynamics of ecosystems and landscapes.
High Wavenumber Coherent Structures in Low Re APG-Boundary-Layer Transition Flow—A Numerical Study
Authors: Chen Weijia , Lo Edmond
Published: April 2017

This paper presents a numerical study of high wavenumber coherent structure evolution in boundary layer transition flow using recently-developed high order Combined compact difference schemes with non-uniform grids in the wall-normal direction for efficient simulation of such flows. The study focuses on a simulation of an Adverse-Pressure-Gradient (APG) boundary layer transition induced by broadband disturbance corresponding to the experiment of Borodulin et al. (Journal of Turbulence, 2006, 7, pp. 1–30). The results support the experimental observation that although the coherent structures seen during transition to turbulence have asymmetric shapes and occur in a random pattern, their local evolutional behaviors are quite similar. Further calculated local wavelet spectra of these coherent structures are also very similar. The wavelet spectrum of the streamwise disturbance velocity demonstrates high wavenumber clusters at the tip and the rear parts of the Λ-vortex. Both parts are imbedded at the primary Λ-vortex stage and spatially coincide with the spike region and high shear layer. The tip part is associated with the later first ring-like vortex, while the rear part with the remainder of the Λ-vortex. These observations help to shed light on the generation of turbulence, which is dominated by high wavenumber coherent structures.
The Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase-1 (Desat1) in Drosophila cooperated with Myc to Induce Autophagy and Growth, a Potential New Link to Tumor Survival
Authors: Paiardi Chiara , Mirzoyan Zhasmine , Zola Sheri , Parisi Federica , Vingiani Andrea , Pasini Maria , Bellosta Paola
Published: April 2017

Lipids are an important energy supply in our cells and can be stored or used to produce macromolecules during lipogenesis when cells experience nutrient starvation. Our proteomic analysis reveals that the Drosophila homologue of human Stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (Desat1) is an indirect target of Myc in fat cells. Stearoyl-CoA desaturases are key enzymes in the synthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids critical for the formation of complex lipids such as triglycerides and phospholipids. Their function is fundamental for cellular physiology, however in tumors, overexpression of SCD-1 and SCD-5 has been found frequently associated with a poor prognosis. Another gene that is often upregulated in tumors is the proto-oncogene c-myc, where its overexpression or increased protein stability, favor cellular growth. Here, we report a potential link between Myc and Desat1 to control autophagy and growth. Using Drosophila, we found that expression of Desat1, in metabolic tissues like the fat body, in the gut and in epithelial cells, is necessary for Myc function to induce autophagy a cell eating mechanism important for energy production. In addition, we observed that reduction of Desat1 affects Myc ability to induce growth in epithelial cells. Our data also identify, in prostatic tumor cells, a significant correlation between the expression of Myc and SCD-1 proteins, suggesting the existence of a potential functional relationship between the activities of these proteins in sustaining tumor progression.
Does Unstable Employment Have an Association with Suicide Rates among the Young?
Authors: Kim Chungah , Cho Youngtae
Published: April 2017

Although a growing body of literature has indicated that unemployment has a positive association with suicide, the dynamic aspects of unstable employment have not yet been considered in suicidology. This study explored the association between employment stability and completed suicide among people aged 25–34 years in 20 OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries with time-series data (1994–2010). In order to consider the different aspects of unstable employment, we tested the impacts of employment protection legislation indicators as another proxy of job insecurity (employed, but unstable) apart from unemployment rates. Covariates, including economic growth rates, GDP per capita, fertility rates, and divorce rate, were controlled for. The analysis was designed to be gender- and age-specific, where observations with ages of 25–29 were separated from those with ages of 30–34. Random effect models were applied to examine changes over time in suicide rates, and other models were presented to check robustness. The results showed that it is a low level of employment protection, rather than unemployment itself, that was associated with increased suicide rates among all of the studied populations. The magnitude of the effect differed by gender.
Genome-Wide Analyses of MicroRNA Profiling in Interleukin-27 Treated Monocyte-Derived Human Dendritic Cells Using Deep Sequencing: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hu Xiaojun , Chen Qian , Sowrirajan Bharatwaj , Bosche Marjorie , Imamichi Tomozumi , Sherman Brad
Published: April 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression and thereby influence cell fate and function. Recent studies suggest that an abundant class of miRNAs play important roles in immune cells, such as T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, B cells, and dendritic cells (DCs). Interleukin (IL)-27 is a member of the IL-12 family of cytokines with broad anti-viral effects. It is a potent inhibitor of HIV-1 infection in CD4+ T cells and macrophages, as well as monocyte-derived immature dendritic cells (iDCs). This pilot study compared miRNA profiles between iDCs and IL-27-treated iDCs (27DCs) using deep sequencing methods and identified 46 known miRNAs that were significantly differentially expressed in 27DCs: 36 were upregulated and 10 downregulated by IL-27. Many of the potential target genes of these miRNAs are involved in IL-27 associated pathways, such as JAK/STAT, MAPKs, and PI3K and several were also previously reported to be involved in the regulation of human DC function. This study found that these miRNAs also potentially target several viral genomes and therefore may have antiviral effects. Four of these differential miRNAs (miR-99a-5p, miR-222-3p, miR-138-5p, and miR-125b-5p) were validated using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). Twenty-two novel miRNAs were discovered from deep sequencing and confirmed using RT-qPCR. This study furthers the understanding of the role of IL-27 in immunity and lays a foundation for future characterization of the role of specific miRNAs in DCs.