bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impairment of visual perception in Aging: Compensatory brain
mechanisms
Authors: Rodríguez-Ferrer José M.
Published: April 2021

We have studied the effects of normal aging on visual perception and the
existence of possible compensatory brain mechanisms. Were measured in three
groups of 30 people with normal vision and average age of 19.6, 42.6 and
65.7 years, the response time to the presentation of stimuli (0.5º in
diameter grey circles) sequentially in 24 positions of the visual field,
distributed in 8 polar coordinates and 3 eccentricities (2.15, 3.83 and 5.53
degrees of visual field). The stimulus was presented for 100 milliseconds,
with low and high contrast (6% and 78%, respectively). The experiments were
conducted with and without covert attention to stimuli. With age was
observed a progressive increase in the response times from the stimuli of 6%
of contrast and those presented in the eccentricity of 5.53º. With covert
attention, response times were significantly reduced in the three age
groups. However, while the younger and older showed similar reductions in
the response times, the adult group obtained minor cuts. These results show
that during aging occurs a selective and progressive deterioration in the
perception of low contrast and that this deterioration is greater in the
peripheral macular areas and that from sixty years the visual attention
compensating mechanisms have greater efficiency in the improvement of visual
perception.
Effect of the aerobic exercise and the environmental enrichment on the
reduction of the anxiety levels in the aging
Authors: Sampedro Patricia
Published: April 2021

The environmental enrichment (EE) and the aerobic exercise (EX) are
interventions capable of reducing anxiety levels in the aging, but few is
known about how they modulating the projections to the
hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA). We studied the effect of an EE and EX
programs carried out during two months in 18 month-old Wistar rats assigned
to 3 groups: (CO, N=6), EE (N=8) y EX (N=8). The EX program was carried out
during 15min/day and the EE group was housed in a big cage with different
objects frequently changed. Through the cytochrome c oxidase histochemistry
(COx), we analysed the metabolic activity of several brain regions involved
in the anxiety response. The EE reduced the brain activity of regions
involved in the activation of the HPA axis (infralimbic cortex, basolateral
amygdala and the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (p<0.05). On the
other hand, the EX program increased the activity of brain regions involved
in the inhibition of the HPA axis (cingulate cortex, bed nucleus of the
stria terminalis and the dorsal hippocampus (p<0.05). In conclusion, it
seemed that the EE and the EX modulate in different way the activity of
brain regions that project to the HPA axis and they could constitute
successful interventions to reduce the anxiety levels in the aging.
Cognitive decline, functional dependency and sociodemographic
characteristics in elderly patients with bone fractures
Authors: Ortega Ana R. , Calero Mª José
Published: April 2021

The objective of this paper was to study the evolution of cognitive
status and of functional dependency in patients over 65 and how these relate
to different demographic variables. The sample consisted of 259 elderly
people admitted to the Hospital Neurotraumatológico in Jaen (Spain) with a
diagnosis of bone fracture. Sociodemographic data was obtained through a
semi-structured interview. Furthermore, the following tests were also
administered: Barthel Index, Lawton and Brody’s Scale, Phototest, and
Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly. According to
the results of this study, elderly patients show increased dependency during
hospitalization and a mild recovery at discharge, but without regaining
their dependency values prior to hospitalization. There is a differential
incidence of functional decline as a function of gender, where women have
significantly lower functional dependency at home than men and they do not
decline as much as men do from their status prior to hospitalization. Also,
we have encountered significant inverse relations between the different
levels of dependency and cognitive status, and the age of the elderly
patient. Moreover, married patients experienced greater functional gain than
did the widowed patients, regardless of gender.
Creativity, paranormal beliefs and cognitive impairment in the
elderly
Authors: Méndez Inmaculada , García-Sevilla Julia , Martínez Juan P. , García-Munuera Isabel , Bermúdez Ana Mª , Pérez Pilar
Published: April 2021

In the case of older people, aesthetic thought and creativity are ways
to keep mind and imagination active by contributing to prevent cognitive
decline. Furthermore, having a religious belief system or even a belief
system or paranormal experiences has proved to be beneficial for the health
of the elderly. The objective was to study the relationship between
creativity, degree of cognitive impairment and paranormal beliefs. The
existence of differences depending on sociodemographic characteristics was
analyzed. A group of 36 elderly people (16 men) aged between 66 and 95 years
were administered the Mini-Mental State Examination (MEC), the CREA Test and
the Paranormal Beliefs Scale. The main outcomes include that: those with
better cognitive status are more creative; the less creative subjects had
more traditional religious beliefs and even greater superstition; the
elderly with better cognitive status were the least superstitious. It is
remarkable that men were more creative, while women excelled in traditional
religious beliefs. The study allows reflecting on the importance of
professionals who work with the elderly to carry out programs to encourage
creativity and even collect information about the belief system.
Homework involvement and motivation in elementary school students
according to academic achievement and grade
Authors: Valle Antonio , Regueiro Bibiana , Estévez Iris , Piñeiro Isabel , Rodríguez Susana , Freire Carlos
Published: April 2021

This paper analyzes statistically significant differences in some
motivational and involvement in homework variables, depending on the course
and the level of academic achievement. The sample consists of 535
participants of 4th, 5th and 6th Primary Education (from 9-13 years old).
According to the academic performance, the results of this research indicate
that students with higher academic achievement do more homework, manage
better the time spent on them, perceive them more useful and even they are
more motivated intrinsically toward them. Regarding the grade level, the
results show that the attitude toward homework and intrinsic motivation and
interest for homework decline as students advance to higher grade levels.
Also as they advance, they spend more time doing homework and the time
management becomes increasingly worse.
Adolescent impulsiveness and use of alcohol and tobacco
Authors: del Carmen Pérez-Fuentes Mª , Gázquez José J. , del Mar Molero Mª , Cardila Fernando , Martos África , Barragán Ana B. , Garzón Anabella , Carrión José J. , Mercader Isabel
Published: April 2021

Adolescence is characterized by premature experimentation with new
experiences and sensations. These experiences sometimes include drugs, which
even though legal and socially accepted, begin to have noticeable negative
consequences to the adolescent’s development. In recent years, a decrease in
use of tobacco by Spanish adolescents has been observed, but not in alcohol.
One of the causes of initiation in drug use is impulsive personality or
behavior. Thus the purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship
between impulsiveness and frequency of use of alcohol and tobacco in 822
students aged 13 to 18 years of age. The State Impulsivity Scale (SIS) and
an ad hoc questionnaire on demographic characteristics and use of alcohol
and tobacco were used for this. The results showed that students who stated
they were users scored significantly higher on impulsivity. Thus detailed
analysis of the profile of individuals with this risk factor could favor
more adequate intervention program design.
Validation of an explicative model of the successful aging process with
psychological, physical, relational, and leisure variables
Authors: Oliver Amparo , Gutiér Melchor , Tomás José M. , Galiana Laura , Sancho Patricia
Published: April 2021

Increasingly, research on the aging process tends to adopt a dual
perspective emic (specific to a culture) and etic (universal), requiring
further studies to address this cross-cultural approach. The aim is to
obtain an empirical answer to the question of whether a model of successful
aging raised from a different context such as the Taiwanese context, is
suitable to represent this process in our elders. The sample consisted of
737 elderly. Socio-demographic-data and different scales to assess life
satisfaction, leisure, health, and social support were collected. A
structural equation model taken from Lee et al. (2011), in which leisure,
health and social support predicted life satisfaction, was tested. Results
showed a proper fit. In particular, it was observed that, in the context of
other factors theoretically influential -health and social support-, this
new aspect of how older people manage their leisure time, although
explanatory, is not such a determining factor as in the study of
reference.
Shared flow in collective physical and sports activities and subjective
well-being
Authors: Zumeta Larraitz N. , Basabe Nekane , Telletxea Saioa , Amutio Alberto , Bobowik Magdalena
Published: April 2021

This study examines physical and sport activities as a source of shared
flow or optimal shared experiences and their relationship with subjective
well-being (SWB). Two studies are presented with university students (N=88
and N=285) participating in group sports and physical activities. Measures
included the degree of engagement in the activity, individual and shared
flow, positive emotions, and subjective well-being (SWB). The first study
showed that shared flow was more intense than individual flow. In the second
study, confirmatory factor analyses and multiple mediation analyses were
performed. The results showed a second order factorial structure with nine
primary dimensions, in addition to mediating effects of shared flow and
positive emotions on SWB. The results confirm the relevance of shared flow
during collective gatherings and its relations with SWB.
The mediating role of school engagement on perceived teacher support and
satisfaction with life
Authors: Ramos-Díaz Estibaliz , Rodríguez-Fernández Arantzazu , Revuelta Lorena , Axpe Inge
Published: April 2021

The view of the school as a enviromental promoter of personal well-being
has raised great interest in the study of variables related to positive
development of students in the field of psychoeducational research. This
study aims to test a structural model which posits both direct and indirect
influence of perceived teacher support through school engagement on
satisfaction with life. The study comprised 1250 students of compulsory
secondary education aged between 12 and 15 years (Mage=13.72; SD=1.09)
randomly selected in the Basque Country, of whom 612 (49%) were male and 638
(50 %) female. The results confirm the influence exerted by perceived
teacher support on satisfaction with life through school engagement
(²(51)=219.743, p<.001; GFI=.972; CFI=.965; TLI=.954; SRMR=.031;
RMSEA=.051). Finally, the results and their implications, as well as the
future research perspectives are discussed.
Sociometric types, behavioral categories and intellectual abilities in
adolescents
Authors: Inglés Cándido , Aparisi David , García-Fernández José , Castejón Juan Luis , Martínez-Monteagudo María
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between
sociometric types, behavioral categories, and intellectual abilities in a
sample of 1349 (51.7% boys) Spanish adolescents, ranging in age from 12 to
16 years. The students' sociometric nomination was performed by the Programa
Socio and academic self-concept was measured by the Primary Mental Abilities
Test (PMA; Thurstone, 1938; TEA, 1996). The hypotheses of the study suggest,
firstly, that students positively nominated by their peers will present
significantly higher scores on different scales of the PMA than students
negatively nominated by their peers and, secondly, that intellectual skills
will be a predictor variable statistically significant of sociometric types
and behavioral categories. Results show that students nominated positively
obtained significantly higher scores on the different intellectual abilities
that nominees negatively. Intellectual abilities were a significant
predictor of sociometric types because with increasing the score on the
different intellectual abilities students were more likely to be nominated
by their peers positively.
Relationship between the use of humor and life satisfaction in Secondary
School students
Authors: Salavera Carlos , Usán Pablo
Published: April 2021

Secondary school students (N=1304) and 12-17 years old, were evaluated
and mood styles and their satisfaction with life were analyzed. The results
show a moderately satisfied with their lives teenagers and humor styles are
used in this order: affiliative, self-improvement, aggressive and
self-destructive. The life satisfaction correlated with positive styles of
humor (affiliative and self-improvement) and inversely with the use of
aggressive humor. Just a 25.85% of adolescents in the sample, make good use
of humor (greater use of positive and less negative styles) and good levels
of satisfaction with life. In addition, although men make more use of humor,
both positive and negative, being a woman increases life satisfaction by
0.85 points from being male, being gender variable greater weight in
predicting the score life satisfaction, self-improvement followed humor,
aggressive humor and affiliative humor. In conclusion, stating that the
research data provide a profile of moderately satisfied with his life
teenagers, with greater use of the styles of positive humor, as well as
evidence of the relationship between the use of humor and life
satisfaction.
Social isolation as a consequence of transitions in partner relationships: How formations and endings of partner relationships affect the risk of social disconnectedness
Authors: Eckhard Jan
Published: April 2021

Objective: The study examines whether the risk of social isolation is affected by a union formation, marriage and by relationship endings.

Background: Social isolation is a broadly discussed social problem but little is known about how social isolation emerges. As regards the role of partner relationships, previous research has yielded mixed results on whether there are isolating effects of marriage, separations or widowhood.

Method: We use longitudinal data deriving from the German Socioeconomic Panel to analyse the impact of transitions in partner relationships on different manifestations of social isolation (disconnectedness from friends and relatives, non-participation in civic associations). Analyses on the impact of union formation and marriage are based on information on 11,359 persons. Analyses on the impact of relationship endings are based on information on 30,730 persons.

Results: Union formation and marriage are found to have little effect in terms of promoting social isolation. Endings of partner relationships, by contrast, entail an increased risk of being isolated at the same time from friendships, relatives and civil associations.

Conclusion: Taken together, the findings suggest that those who had limited their social interaction to the spouse or partner often fail to become re-integrated when the relationship had ended. It can be assumed that this is a common pathway into social isolation.
Elucidation of the Role of Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) Channels in Epileptogenesis
Authors: Abdel-Salam Omar M.E.
Published: April 2021

The transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1), previously known as the capsaicin receptor or vanilloid receptor 1 (VR1) is a nonselective cation channel that acts as an integrator of nociceptive information in sensory neurons and their sensory nerve endings with unmyelinated (C) or thin myelinated (Aδ) fibers. It is activated by capsaicin, resiniferatoxin, piperine, noxious heat (> 43ºC), protons, lipoxygenase products, and some endogenous cannabinoids. TRPV1 receptors are also expressed in the brain on neurons, glia cells and pericytes and might be involved in the modulation of epileptogenesis. TRPV1 modulates synaptic plasticity and neurotransmission, mediates long-term depression of glutamate release in the hippocampus and suppress excitatory transmission in dentate gyrus. TRPV1-knockout mice have altered susceptibility to hyperthermic seizures. Studies in vitro showed that capsaicin reduced epileptiform activity but increased neuronal discharge in excitable cells. Capsaicin given via systemic routes at low doses was shown to reduce seizures induced by kainic acid and pentylenetetrazole and to afford neuroprotection of hippocampus in vivo. These effects were associated with reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in brain. In contrast, high doses of capsaicin either elicited or enhanced seizures in animals. In addition, piperine, a TRPV1 agonist, demonstrated anti-epileptic activity in several animal models via a multiplicity of mechanisms. Moreover, non-psychotropic cannabinoids such as cannabidiol and cannabidivarin, the endocannabinoid anandamide, and acetaminophen demonstrated anti-epileptiform activity in vivo and in vitro via mechanisms that might involve TRPV1 receptors. By surveying recent research findings, this review article is intended to present the current research status on the involvement of TRPV1 receptors in epileptogenesis so as to stimulate further investigations into the detailed molecular mechanisms by which capsaicin as well as other chemical modalities impact epileptogenesis via modulating TRPV1 channels.
(First online: Apr 12, 2021)
Romatoid Artritli Hastada Ayak Bileği Ağrısının Nadir Bir Nedeni; Atravmatik Tibia Yetmezlik Kırığı
Authors: Kunu Orhan , ÖZTÜRK Alper , ATİLLA Halis , YETİŞGİN Efe , Akdoğan Mutlu
Published: April 2021

Kronik hastalıklarda yoğunluğu azalmış kemiklere döngüsel yüklenmeler yetmezlik kırıklarına sebep verebilir. Romatoid artrit hastalarında sıklıkla omurga ve pelviste yetmezlik kırıkları görülebilir. Bu olgu sunumunda romatoid artrit hastalığı nedeniyle takipli olan hastamızda gelişen tibia cisim yetmezlik kırığını bildirdik. Kronik hastalığı veya kortizon kullanımı olan hastalarda tanıda gecikmeye neden olmamak için mutlaka yetmezlik kırıkları akılda tutulmalıdır.
KOAH akut alevlenmesi ile acil servise başvuran hasta sayısının meteorolojik parametreler arasındaki ilişki
Authors: USUL Eren , SEYHAN Avni Uygar
Published: April 2021

Amaç: Biz çalışmamızda acil servise bir solunum yolu hastalığı olan KOAH akut alevlenme ile gelen hastaların meterolojik parametrelerden sıcaklık, nem ve hava basınçı etkisiyle hastaneye başvuru sayıları arasındaki ilişkiyi ortaya koymayı amaçladık.
Metod: Bu çalışma rektospektif bir çalışmadır.Acil servise KOAH akut alevlenme ile başvuran hastaların atak sıklığını değerlendirmede sıcaklık, hava basıncı ve nem faktörününün etkisini tespit etmek için yapıldı. Hasta grubu Sincan Dr. Nafiz Körez Devlet Hastanesi Acil Servisine 01.01.2017-31.12.2019 tarihleri arasında başvuran hastalardan oluşturuldu. Bu tarihler arasındaki basınç, sıcaklık ve nem oranı değerleri aynı bölgenin meteorolojik verileri kullanılarak belirlendi.
Bulgular: Toplamda 1095 gün içinde 1082 gün KOAH atak ile başvuru olmuştur. Günde ortalama 6 KOAH’lı hasta başvurmuştur Ortalama sıcaklık, maksimum ve minimum sıcaklık azaldıkça KOAH atak nedeni ile hastane başvuru sayısı artmıştır Mevsimsel değişim KOAH başvuru sayısı üzerine anlamlı etkili görüldü. Ayrıca hafta sonu yapılan KOAH başvuruları hafta içine göre anlamlı yüksek bulundu. Ortalama sıcaklık döneminde, başvuru gününde (0. gün) ve hasta başvurusundan önceki 5 günlük süre boyunca KOAH atak ile başvuru sayısının arttığı belirlenmiş ve istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bulunmuştur (p=0.001 p<0.05; p=0.015, p<0.05 ). Nem ve basınç ile KOAH atak başvurusu arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı ilişki gözlenmedi.
Sonuç: Çalışmamızda iklimsel faktörlerin KOAH atak sıklığı üzerine etkisinin olduğunu gördük ve bu etkinin sıcaklıkla bağlantılı olduğunu tespit ettik. Sıcaklık azaldıkça KOAH alevlenme ile acil servise başvurunun arttığını bulduk. İklim değişikliklerinin etkisi nedeniyle bu konuda geniş çaplı çalışmalara ihtiyaç olduğu kanaatindeyiz.
Characterization of Glucomannan Extracted from Fresh Porang Tubers Using Ethanol Technical Grade
Authors: Nurlela Nurlela , Ariesta Nina , Laksono Dwi Sutari , Santosa Edi , Muhandri Tjahja
Published: April 2021

Glucomannan is a polysaccharide consisting of β-1.4-linked D-mannose and D-glucose monomers, which have many benefits especially in the food and pharmaceutical industry. It has been widely reported that one of the main sources of glucomannan is porang tuber (Amorphophallus muelleri Blume). Generally, glucomannan extracted or purified from porang flour. However, the drying process causes other compounds than glucomannan stick strongly, resulting low levels of glucomannan. This study was to obtain glucomannan extract in an easy, effective, and inexpensive method, by direct extraction from fresh porang tubers using ethanol technical grade. We performed two extraction methods. The first is a fixed concentration method, the sample was repeatedly extracted using 50% ethanol (FC50) and 96% ethanol (FC96) 3 times, respectively. The second is a multilevel concentration method, the sample was repeatedly extracted using ethanol 60% (first step), 80% (second step), and 96% (third step), one replication each step. The highest glucomannan content (66.56%) was obtained by a multilevel concentration method. Moisture, lipid, protein, crude fiber, calcium oxalate level significantly reduce to 13.58%, 0.07%, 4.03%, 4.95%, 0.56% respectively. FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of functional groups (O-H, C=O, C-O, C-H), that compose the glucomannan compound. SEM image showed that the granules form of glucomannan were round and oval, began to change its phase from amorphous to crystalline, related to XRD data. The results showed that the direct extraction from fresh porang tuber using ethanol technical grade with a multilevel concentration method was an effective method to extract the glucomannan
Purification of Carbon-Based Magnetic Nanoparticles (CMNs) Produced by Submerged Arc Discharge in Liquid Ethanol/Ethylenediamine
Authors: Mayasari Oktaviana Dyah , Kuswari Dielsa Eka , Lestari Witri Wahyu , Saraswati Teguh Endah
Published: April 2021

Surface modification of covalently amine-attached carbon-based magnetic nanoparticles (CMNs) can be produced quite simply in submerged arc discharge using the amine-containing liquid medium ethylenediamine (ED), resulting in CMNs-ED. However, after the arc discharge processing, the resulting nanoparticles possibly contain physically absorbed amine-containing molecules from a liquid medium on the particle surface. To remove the non-covalently bound molecules, a purification process is required. In this study, the purification was conducted using polar and non-polar solvents following the synthesis process. The surface property was initially characterized by a dispersion test in water, showing that CMNs-ED purified by water have better dispersion than CMNs produced in ethanol alone, CMNs-ED before purification, and CMNs-ED after purification by immersion in toluene. Before and after purification, the diffraction pattern showed definitive peaks corresponded to the crystal planes of C(002), Fe3C(220), and Fe3O4(311) at 26.51°, 44.65°, and 35.42°, respectively. The amine functional group on the nanoparticles before purification thought to come from decomposed ethylenediamine assigned by the vibration peaks appeared at a wavenumbers ~3400 cm-1 and 1020-1220 cm-1, which corresponds to N-H and C-N, respectively. After purification, the vibration peaks of amine groups were still observable, indicating that the amine groups were still covalently attached to the nanoparticles. Magnetic analysis showed that CMNs before and after purification have superparamagnetic properties, with the magnetic saturation value around 10-17 emu/g. The electron microscope images show that the CMNs-ED before purification have a spherical form with a diameter larger than CMNs-ED after purification.
Equilibrium and Kinetic Study of Removal Copper(II) from Aqueous Solution Using Chicken Eggshells: Low Cost Sorbent
Authors: Madiabu Mohammad Jihad , Untung Joko , Solihat Imas , Ichzan Andi Muhammad
Published: April 2021

The research aims to investigate feasibility eggshells as potential adsorbent to remove copper(II) ions from aqueous solution. Eggshells powder was characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Effect of copper(II) initial concentration, adsorbent dosage, and contact time have conducted. The optimum adsorption condition obtained when 0.7 g eggshells applied to 50 mg/L copper(II) solution for 50 minutes. The maximum percentage of copper(II) removal was exceeded more than 85%. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm model were applied to describe the equilibrium adsorption. Copper(II) kinetics sorption process was fitted to pseudo-second order model with a rate constant equal to 0.516 g/mg.min. The results clearly exhibit that eggshells powder can be effectively used to remove copper(II) ions from aqueous solutions.
Physical, Thermal Stability, and Mechanical Characteristics of New Bioplastic Elastomer from Blends Cassava and Tannia Starches as Green Material
Authors: Christwardana Marcelinus , Ismojo I. , Marsudi Sidik
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the study results of the morphology, physical properties, thermal stability, and mechanics of bioplastic blends made from tannia and cassava starch, with a varying weight from 0 to 95%. The addition of tannia to the cassava starch-based bioplastic composition has the ability to reduce the number of pores, density, and water absorption with an average thickness of 0.21-0.29 mm. It also increased moisture content due to its nature, which is more hydrophilic than cassava starch. The result showed that the tensile strength of bioplastic ranged from 0.81-1.33 MPa and elongated from 31-35%. In addition, the thermal analysis data showed that the glass transition temperature shifted marginally due to intermolecular activity. This shows that tannia starch has promising potential as an alternative raw material for bioplastics to replace cassava starch which is more dominantly used as a food source.
Isolation, Characterization and Application of Humin From Sumatran Peat Soils as Adsorbent for Naphtol Blue Black and Indigosol Blue Dyes
Authors: Rahmayanti Maya , Nurhikmah Indah , Larasati Feni
Published: April 2021

Isolation, characterization and application of humin as adsorbent for naphtol blue black (NBB) and indigosol blue (IB) dyes has been carried out. Humin application in this study aims to obtain the optimum pH conditions and kinetics model for adsorption NBB and IB dyes onto humin. Humin was isolated from peat soils originating from Riau, Sumatra. The isolation method used was the alkaline extraction method and the characterization of humin using FTIR spectrophotometer. The total acidity, carboxylic groups and –OH phenolic groups of humin were determined quantitatively using the acid-base titration method. FTIR characterization indicated the presence of an –OH group which was indicated by the appearance of absorption at a wavelength of 3425.3 cm-1 and a stretching vibration of C=O from the –COOH group at a wavelength of 1705 cm-1. The quantitative calculation of the total acidity value, the content of the carboxylic group and the -OH group phenolics of humin were 508.47 cmol kg-1, 289.42 cmol kg-1 and 219.05 cmol kg-1, respectively. The optimum pH conditions for adsorption NBB and IB onto humin occurred at pH 5 and pH 2, respectively. The adsorption kinetics model of NBB and IB on humin followed the Ho kinetics model.
Enhanced Expression and Purification Strategy for Recombinant Bacterially-Expressed Human Hexokinase II
Authors: Ahmad Fuad Fazia Adyani , Tanbin Suriyea
Published: April 2021

Dengue virus hijacks the host cellular mechanism to propagate and survive during viral infection, in which the central carbon mechanism plays a crucial role to upregulate DENV infection through the increase of human hexokinase II (HKII) activity. Since the enzyme governs the glycolytic pathway, it has potentials as a target for anti-dengue (DENV) drug development. In this study, the production of human hexokinase II protein has been enhanced by using bacterial system for anti-dengue therapeutic purpose. The HKII gene was cloned into pET28b vector and transformed into the E. coli strain BL21 (DE3) for HKII expression. In order to obtain soluble recombinant HKII in an active form, we optimized protein expression under specific conditions at 18°C for 19 hours using Terrific Broth media, in the presence of 0.5 mM isopropyl-2-D-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). The pET28b-HKII construct expressed in BL21(DE3) system exhibited adequate protein expression, thus, this construct was subsequently proceeded to purification process. The expressed protein was purified to homogeneity by a combination of Immobilized Metal Ion Affinity Chromatography (IMAC)and size exclusion chromatography (SEC), resulting in pure, active bacterially-expressed HKII with a specific activity of 56. 67U.mg-1. The amount of HKII obtained from 2 L culture is 80 mg, with a yield percentage of 10.5%.  Hence in this study, human HKII has successfully been cloned and expressed as a soluble protein that can be utilized for further therapeutic studies.
The Influence of ZnCl2 Activation on Macronutrient NPK Adsorption Simultaneously Using Coconut Shell Biochar for Soil Fertility Improvement
Authors: Purnawan Candra , Dewi Christina Candra , Syafrudin Syafrudin , Ramadan Bimastyaji Surya , Budihardjo Mochamad Arief , Effendi Agus Jatnika , Hidayat Syarif
Published: April 2021

The influence of ZnCl2 activation on macronutrient Nitrogen, Phosphor, Potassium (NPK) adsorption simultaneously using Coconut Shell Biochar for soil fertility improvement has been conducted. Biochar formation is carried out at temperature up to 500 oC using variation in the concentration of ZnCl2 0,5; 1,0; 1,5; 2,0; dan 2,5 M. The biochar formed was characterized using Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectroscopy and Surface Area Analyzer (SAA). Whereas NPK analysis has used the Indonesian standard method (SNI 7763: 2018). Based on this research, it was concluded that the greater the concentration of ZnCl2 activator, indicated that the higher intensity of the spectra of –OH and –NH2 at wave number 3400 cm-1 and 1600 cm-1. It showed that biochar activation was higher and a more active functional group was opened. Increasing the concentration of ZnCl2 activator has increased Biochar adsorption of NPK macronutrients. The optimum condition for activation of coconut shell Biochar was activation with ZnCl2 2.5 M. The addition of activated Biochar was increased soil adsorption on NPK macronutrients. Biochar addition had increased Nitrogen (N) adsorption up to 23.53%, Phosphor (P) up to 200%, and Potassium (K) up to 41.24%.
Sustainable Economic Solution to Prevent the Wasted Cold Water in the Start of Shower Time Using Low Cost In-Line Electrical Heater with MISO Fuzzy Logic Controller
Authors: Mahmoud Muhammad M. A. S.
Published: April 2021

This paper discusses domestic problem of waiting hot water for the shower use till it reaches satisfactory temperature, which result a lot of wastage in fresh water. The outcome from research survey shows that there is no satisfactory solution till now as all solutions were either expensive or with no effective results. Local small inline electric heater equipped with fuzzy logic controller is proposed in this paper to be installed just before the showerhead to measure the water temperature and flow before the showerhead, as control input-variables, and decide the operating voltage of the heater, as control output-variable. Matlab Simulink is used to model the proposed system. Different test cases are simulated to prove the performance and the safe operation of the system. Techno-economic study is carried out to determine the “Direct Benefits” and “Indirect Benefits” that can be achieved if such system is implemented in wide range. Azerbaijan data is taken as an example to calculate the economic benefits. The results show important benefits not only for economy but also for climate and the reduction of greenhouse gas emission. Different economic indices are provided to be an easy reference for decision makers and project managers.
Sustainable Hydrothermal and Solvothermal Synthetic Approaches for Advanced Carbon Materials in Multidimensional Applications: A Review
Authors: Ndlwana Lwazi , Raleie Naledi , Dimpe Mogolodi , Ogutu Hezron , Motsa Mxolisi M , Mamba Bhekie Brilliance
Published: April 2021

There is great importance and need of improving existing carbon materials fabrication methods. As such, this work proposes to discuss, interrogate, and propose viable hydrothermal, solvothermal, and other advanced carbon materials synthetic methods. The advanced carbon materials to be interrogated will include the synthesis of carbon dots, carbon nanotubes, nitrogen/titania-doped carbons, graphene quantum dots, and their nanocomposites with solid/polymeric/metal oxide supports. This will be done with special mind to microwave-assisted solvothermal and hydrothermal synthesis due to their favourable properties such as rapidity, low cost, and green/environmentally-friendliness. Thus, these methods are important during the current and future synthesis and modification of advanced carbon materials for application in energy, gas separation, sensing, and water treatment. Simultaneously, the work will pay special cognizance to methods reducing the fabrication costs and environmental impact while enhancing the properties as a direct result of the synthesis methods. As a direct result, the expectation is to impart a significant contribution to the scientific body of work regarding the improvement of the said fabrication methods.
Basic Modifications of "Floating" Differential Stages Based on Complementary Field-Effect Transistors with a Control p-n Junction
Authors: Chumakov Vladislav , Prokopenko Nikolay , Pakhomov Ilja , Titov Alexey
Published: April 2021

The circuitry of the summarized "floating" differential stages (FDS) based on complementary field-effect transistors with a control p-n junction (CJFET), intended for use in low-noise analog microcircuits, for example, operational amplifiers. The results of modeling the flow characteristics of one of the CJFET FDSs in the LTSpice XVII environment at low temperatures (down to -197 0С) and exposure to a neutron flux in the range of 1e13 ÷ 1e15 n / cm2 are presented.
Low-Cost Stereovision System (Disparity Map) For Few Dollars
Authors: Rakhmatulin Ildar , Pomazov Eugene
Published: April 2021

The paper presents an analysis of the latest developments in the field of stereo vision in the low-cost segment, both for prototypes and for industrial designs. We described the theory of stereo vision and presented information about cameras and data transfer protocols and their compatibility with various devices. The theory in the field of image processing for stereo vision processes is considered and the calibration process is described in detail. Ultimately, we presented the developed stereo vision system and provided the main points that need to be considered when developing such systems. The final, we presented software for adjusting stereo vision parameters in real-time in the python language in the Windows operating system.
HIV Propagation in a Population Group Considering Infection in the Immune System Of Each Infected Individual
Authors: Vásquez-Quintero Sol de Amor , Toro-Zapata Hernán Darío , Prieto-Medellín Dennis Alexánder
Published: April 2021

A multiscale mathematical model is proposed seeking to study the propagation dynamics of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in a group of young people between 15 and 24 years of age, through sexual contact without protection, considering the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and therapeutic failure. The model consists in a scale-free complex network that follows a power law, coupled with the immunological dynamics of each individual, that is, it considers the infection by the virus in the immune system of each HIV carrier, through a system of non-linear differential equations that govern the infection’s behavior in the immune system. Propagation of the virus in the network is modelled by taking into account information from the immunological status of each person. The study found that for a population to have high HIV prevalence, it is not necessary at the beginning of the simulation time for the virus to propagate rapidly. In addition, the study proves that with a higher number of sexual partners, there will be greater prevalence of HIV in the population and that the use of ART helps to control the propagation of the infection in the population. As an interesting result, it was also found that there is a higher number of HIV carriers who abandon ART than those who have access to it.
Exploring Fusarium Head Blight Resistance In a Winter Triticale Germplasm Collection
Authors: Wallace Sydney , Chhabra Bhavit , Dong Yanhong , Ma Xuefeng , Coleman Gary , Tiwari Vijay , Rawat Nidhi
Published: April 2021

Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) is a destructive disease affecting the grain yield and quality of wheat, barley, rye and triticale. Developing varieties with genetic resistance is integral to successfully managing FHB. However, significant knowledge gap exists in the genetic diversity present in triticale for FHB resistance. This information is critical for breeding new varieties of triticale as its production continues to increase. In the present study, a set of 298 winter triticale accessions from a worldwide collection were screened for their type-2 FHB resistance in an artificially inoculated misted nursery with high levels of inoculum density. Most of the triticale accessions were susceptible to FHB, and only 8% of accessions showed resistance in the field nursery screening. The resistant accessions identified in the nursery screening were selected and further screened for three years in greenhouse conditions. Seven accessions were found to show robust FHB resistance over the three years of greenhouse testing. Thirteen accessions showed significantly lower levels of Deoxynivalenol accumulation when compared to the susceptible triticale control. The accessions identified in the study will be useful in triticale and wheat breeding programs for enhancing FHB resistance and reducing DON accumulation.
EDUCATION IN THE EARLY CHILDHOOD TOWARDS ENERGY SAVING BEHAVIOUR
Authors: Rasmani Upik Elok Endang
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study is to implement a culture of energy-saving behavior. It is based on the implementation of basic energy-saving values, including (1) the development of a green education curriculum through energy conservation teaching materials of Economical, Wise and Smart to Use Energy. Also, (2) it encourages energy-saving behaviours, such as turning off devices that use energy while not in use, including lamp and AC. This strategy needs to be practiced continuously with teachers’ help to inculcate positive habits in children. The study uses a comparative approach which is often meant to describe the profound relationship and the influence between two or more facts and the object properties examined. A comparative study is used to determine the cause of behavioral differences or individual status. This study involves a follow-up to the correlation research.
IDENTIFICATION OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION (ECE) MANAGEMENT
Authors: Rasmani Upik Elok Endang
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study is to determine problems related to Early Childhood Education (ECE) Management. It uses a qualitative descriptive approach with case studies. Samples were selected using purposive and snowball sampling techniques, while interviews, observation, and documentation were used in data collection. From the data analysis techniques with an independent sample t-test, an average pretest of the experimental group was 5.45 and post-test 9.60. The data analysis showed a significance value of 0.000 based on decision making with 𝝆> 0.05. The samples for the study were administrative officers and the teachers in Warga Kindergarten and Aulia Kindergarten at Surakarta for the experimental and control group. The results of the analysis indicate that there are ECE management problems lessens the institutions’ quality. Also, the management identification was needed to improve ECE management. This is because the level of significance before directions was greater than 0.05 and smaller than 0.05 after the direction. Therefore, the values before and after the directives have significant differences.
LITERATURE STUDY OF MODIFICATION SCALE MEDIA IN LEARNING MEASUREMENT CONCEPTS OF CHILDREN 5-6 YEARS OLD
Authors: Rahmawati Siti , Maulidiyah Eka Cahya
Published: April 2021

In the development of cognitive aspects one of the parts in it is mathematics. One concept in mathematics that is very close to children is the concept of measurement. However, learning in children is quite difficult for teachers to do. This is because the concept of measurement is one of the concepts in mathematics which is quite abstract if only taught without the existence of a learning medium as a tool in the learning process. Teaching the concept of measurement in kindergarten is still lacking in variety and tends to only use Child Worksheets (LKA) which directly or indirectly will seem very boring and seem monotonous. Therefore, it is necessary to have a new learning media in the process of learning the measurement concept that aims to make it easy for children to learn the measurement concept. This study aims to describe the use of the modified media scales in the learning of measurement concepts that are aimed at children aged 5-6 years. Indicators of measurement concepts related to the child's ability to understand the concept of measuring the weight of objects with the intended subject are early childhood with an age range of 5-6 years. This type of research is a literature review that is using literature studies in a scientific study relating to the variables in the study. Analysis techniques in research by analyzing some relevant research from related articles obtained, discovered, analyzed and concluded. The results of the data analysis concluded that the use of modified media scales in the learning process of measuring concepts can provide convenience for children in learning the measurement concepts.
THE CORRELATION BETWEEN DEMOCRATIC PARENTING AND 4-5 YEAR-OLD CHILDREN’S AUTONOMY IN GONILAN VILLAGE
Authors: Hidayah Fatimah Suha Nur , Rasmani Upik Elok Endang
Published: April 2021

Planting character values needs to be given from an early age. One of the character values that needs to be instilled early is independence.The role and parent's support is needed to build an independent child character. Parenting is one of the factors that influence children's independence. The purpose of this study was to find out whether there was a relationship between democratic parenting and disciplines of children aged 4-5 years in Gonilan Village. This study uses quantitative approaches with correlation research type. This research was conducted on January 2019 by using a sample of 69 children and parents of children aged 4-5 years in Gonilan Village. Retrieving data from this study uses questionnaires that distributed to the parents. The results of the hypothesis test of the Spearman Rho correlation indicate that the significance value is 0,000 <0.05 which means the hypothesis is accepted, there is a relationship between democratic parenting with the independence of children aged 4-5 years in Gonilan Village. The results of the correlation coefficient are 0.998 using the Spearman Rho hypothesis test, which means the higher the democratic parenting style of parents, the higher the child's independence.
The effectiveness of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) as a quantitative tool for environmental characterization
Authors: Corriveau Elizabeth , Mossell Ashley , VerMeulen Holly , Beal Samuel , Clausen Jay
Published: April 2021

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is a rapid, low-cost analytical method with potential applications for quantitative analysis of soils for heavy metal contaminants found in military ranges. The Department of Defense (DoD), Army, and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have mission requirements to acquire the ability to detect and identify chemicals of concern in the field. The quantitative potential of a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hand-held LIBS device and a classic laboratory bench-top LIBS system was examined by measuring heavy metals (antimony, tungsten, iron, lead, and zinc) in soils from six military ranges. To ensure the accuracy of the quantified results, we also examined the soil samples using other hand-held and bench-top analytical methods, to include Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). The effects of soil heterogeneity on quantitative analysis were reviewed with hand-held and bench-top systems and compared multivariate and univariate calibration algorithms for heavy metal quantification. In addition, the influence of cold temperatures on signal intensity and resulting concentration were examined to further assess the viability of this technology in cold environments. Overall, the results indicate that additional work should be performed to enhance the ability of LIBS as a reliable quantitative analytical tool.
Efficacy of early antifibrotic treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Sugino Keishi , Ono Hirotaka , Watanabe Natsumi , Ando Masahiro , Tsuboi Eiyasu , Homma Sakae , Kishi Kazuma
Published: April 2021

Background: Although antifibrotic drugs, including nintedanib and pirfenidone, slow the progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), there is little data about the timing of start of antifibrotic treatment in real-world clinical practice. The present study aimed to clarify the efficacy of nintedanib and pirfenidone in patients with early-stage IPF.Methods: We compared survival and disease progression between patients with IPF with Japanese Respiratory Society (JRS) disease severity system stage I with and without oxygen desaturation on the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and increased the gender–age–physiology (GAP) staging. We examined the efficacy of antifibrotic drugs in patients with early-stage IPF.Results: The severity of stage I IPF (n = 179) according to the JRS criteria consisted of the following GAP staging criteria: stage I, 111 cases; stage II, 58 cases; stage III, 10 cases. The duration from the initial visit to disease progression and survival time was significantly shorter in JRS stage I patients with oxygen desaturation on the 6MWT or with increased GAP staging (unfavorable group) compared with patients without those factors. In the unfavorable group, the relative decline in percentage predicted forced vital capacity (%FVC) over 6 months was significantly lower in patients undergoing antifibrotic treatment compared with non-treated patients. Conclusion: Antifibrotic drugs have a beneficial effect on the decline in %FVC in Japanese patients with early-stage IPF who have oxygen desaturation on the 6MWT or increased GAP staging.