bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiomiopatia hipertrófica associada a ventrículo esquerdo não compactado: um relato de caso
Authors: Mroginski Leonardo Sergio Chiodi , Scalabrin Raíssa , Medeiros Pedro Henrique Karasek Bianchi , Bellinaso Milena , Bamberg Fernanda Werlang , Machado Rafaela Dolzan , Portella Nathalia Rochinhas da Costa , Taglietti Ziliola Rizle
Published: January 2021

Objetivo: Relatar a concomitância das doenças cardíacas: Cardiomiopatia hipertrófica (CMH) e Ventrículo esquerdo não compactado (VENC) em uma paciente de 27 anos. Método: Revisão de literatura em comparação ao encontrado no relato de caso. Resultados: A Cardiomiopatia Hipertrófica (CMH) é a doença genética cardíaca mais comum, já o Ventrículo esquerdo não compactado (VENC) é uma cardiomiopatia rara. A avaliação do caso relatado demonstrou as duas doenças, simultaneamente. Conclusões: É importante atentar para o fato de que a paciente apresentou apenas dispneia aos médios e grandes esforços e diagnosticou-se uma doença rara em concomitância com outra cardiomiopatia; o tratamento escolhido foi a implantação de um cardiodesfibrilador implantável (CDI), por ser indicação das duas doenças.
Perlindungan Hukum Terhadap Nasabah Pengguna Kartu Automatic Teller Machine
Authors: Syahril Muh. Akbar Fhad
Published: January 2021

asyarakat kini sudah diperkenalkan dengan berbagai macam kemudahan. Jasa yang diberikan oleh pihak perbankan tentunya juga sangat berperan penting didalamnya, selain memberikan kemudahan ternyata hal tersebut juga mempunyai kelemahan-kelemahan yang secara tidak langsung akan merugikan nasabah pengguna jasa dan perbankan yang memberikan pelayanan jasa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis bagaimana tanggung jawab dan perlindungan hukum terhadap nasabah pada transaksi Automatic Teller Machine dan upaya hukum yang dapat dilakukan oleh nasabah pengguna kartu Automatic Teller Machine dalam memperoleh hak-haknya apabila terjadi kerugian dalam penggunaan Automatic Teller Machine. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian normatif yuridis, yakni penelitian yang dilakukan dengan pendekatan pada norma atau substansi hukum, asas hukum, dalil-dalil hukum dan perbandingan hukum, dengan menggunakan pendekatan konseptual yang merupakan suatu jenis pendekatan di dalam penelitian hukum yang memberi sudut pandang analisa terhadap penyelesaian permasalahan dalam penelitian hukum, yang dilihat dari aspek dan konsep-konsep hukum yang melatarbelakanginya, bahkan bisa jugaÂ  dilihat dari nilai-nilai yang terkandung dalam penormaan sebuah peraturan yang sekaitan dengan konsep-konsep yang digunakan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa bank bertanggung jawab penuh terhadap kesalahan yang mengakibatkan kerugian terhadap nasabah. Dan upaya hukum yang dapat dilakukan yakni melakukan pengaduan yang dilakukan secara tertulis yang disampaikan kepada bank.
PENERAPAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF DENGAN PENDEKATAN OPEN ENDED LEARNING UNTUK MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR MATEMATIKA SISWA KELAS III SD NEGERI 110 PEKANBARU
Authors: Putra Picka Denko
Published: January 2021

Berdasarkan hasil observasi di SD N 110 Pekanbaru kulitas hasil belajar matematika kelas III masih di bawah KKM, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar matematika. melalui model pembelajaran kooperatif dengan pendekatan open ended learning. Metode penelitian ini, mengunakan metode penelitian tindakan kelas. Prosedur penelitian berbentuk siklus. Setiap siklus terdiri dari empat tahap meliputi: perencanaan, pelaksanaan tindakan, observasi dan refleksi. Teknik pengumpulan data melalui observasi dan tes. Pengumpulan data ini menggunakan instrument berupa lembar pengamatan observasi siswa dan guru dalam proses pembelajaran, sedangkan untuk mengetahui kualitas hasil belajar siswa digunakan lembar evaluasi/tes. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa penggunaan model pembelajaran kooperatif dengan pendekatan open ended learning dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa pada mata pelajaran matematika. Dari nilai dasar 61.84. menjadi 75.26. pada siklus I dan 8.,05 pada siklus II.
The Development of Problem Based Learning of Bakiak Game for Mathematics Learning In Primary Schools
Authors: Imama Nur , Utaminingsih Sri , Madjdi Achmad Hilal
Published: January 2021

The objectives of this study were, (1) Developing the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model based on the traditional Bakiak game in elementary schools, (2) Analyzing the effectiveness of developing the bakiak game-based Problem Based Learning (PBL) model in mathematics learning in elementary schools. research and development or Research and Development (R&D). Borg and Gall describes ten steps of conducting the research. However, in this study, due to time and cost limitations, the researcher simplified it into 8 steps, stage (1) potential and problems; (2) data collection; (3) product design; (4) design validation; (5) design revision; (6) product testing; (7) product revision; (8) trial use. The subjects in this study were fifth grade elementary school students in several schools in Pati district. The results of the research show that the results of the development of the Problem Based Learning model based on clogs games are based on the analysis of the needs of students and teachers. The product developed is a PBL model based on clogs games in mathematics learning in elementary schools on the subject of Speed, Distance, and time in class V. In the guiding phase of individual and group investigations, clogging games are integrated. organize students to study, guide individual and group investigations, assist with data analysis, help find mathematical concepts, develop work results, analyze and evaluate processes. The product and model development instrument has been validated by experts with a value of 3.47 (very good). Based on these criteria, the learning model development model is feasible for use in mathematics learning in elementary schools. The results of the T test show that the pretst shows the sig value. 0.041 <0.05. then there is an average difference between the pretest scores of the experimental group and the control group. Furthermore, for the results of the posttest scores it is also known that 0.000 <0.05 so that there is an average difference between the posttest scores of the experimental group and the control group. Based on these statistical tests, it is concluded that the development of the PBL model based on clogs games in mathematics learning is proven to be effective and can be used in mathematics learning in elementary schools.
TEACHING CLEAN AND HEALTHY BEHAVIOR IN THE ENVIRONMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD
Authors: Chairilsyah, Dr. Daviq
Published: January 2021

ABSTRACTLiving in a healthy and cleaned life is something that is neglected by parents and teachers to be taught in a program and a sustainable manner. Teachers assume that parents have taught hygiene and healthy living habits at home, even though it is not certain that every parent understands the proper way of living a clean and healthy lifestyle in early childhood. Parents feel that teachers at school must have taught this clean and healthy lifestyle while studying. Indeed, teachers are more preoccupied with children's learning achievement that is more of academic knowledge. Using study literature method, this article purpose to used literature revieuw in research methodology to help teachers about the importance and the implementation of a clean and healthy lifestyle in early childhood. The role of kindergarten teachers is to stimulate character education for a healthy and clean living that should be a priority in all aspects of learning. A clean and healthy lifestyle clean and healthy life behavior in schools are instilling values for a clean and healthy lifestyle in schools through health education, carrying out extracurricular activities with clean and healthy life behavior values for students, make activity can be carried out work together with the goverenment health office. Keywords: clean and healthy behavior, environment, early childhood  ABSTRAKHidup sehat dan bersih menjadi hal yang terkadang diabaikan oleh orang tua dan guru untuk diajarkan secara terprogram dan berkelanjutan. Guru menganggap bahwa orang tua telah mengajarkan perilaku hidup bersih dan sehat di rumah, padahal belum tentu setiap orang tua memahami pola perilaku hidup bersih dan sehat pada anak usia dini. Orang tua meyakini bahwa guru di sekolah pasti telah mengajarkan perilaku hidup bersih dan sehat ini di sekolah, pada kenyataannya guru lebih disibukkan pada pencapaian pembelajaran anak yang lebih bersifat pengetahuan akademik. Menggunakan metode studi literatur, tulisan ini bertujuan membantu guru mengenai penerapan pola perilaku hidup bersih dan sehat pada anak usia dini. Peran guru taman kanak-kanak adalah menstimulasi pendidikan karakter hidup sehat dan bersih harus menjadi prioritas dalam segenap aspek pembelajaran di sekolah. Cara-cara penerapan perilaku hidup bersih dan sehat di sekolah adalah menanamkan nilai-nilai untuk berperilaku hidup bersih dan sehat di sekolah, melakukan kegiatan ekstrakurikuler dengan menanamkan nilai-nilai hidup bersih dan sehat, melakukan konseling dan bekerja sama dengan pihak kesehatan dari pemerintah. Kata kunci: perilaku bersih dan sehat, lingkungan, anak usia dini
Economic and geographic factors of development of air transport and accessibility of passenger air transportation in the Republic of Belarus
Authors: Antipova Ekaterina A. , Slivinskaya Tat’yana V.
Published: January 2021

The article is devoted to the identification and analysis of economic and geographical factors in the development of air transport and their impact on the level of accessibility of passenger air transportation in the Republic of Belarus for the period from 2005 to 2017. The relevance of the study of the air transport development factors in Belarus is due to the geographical specificity of the country and the lack of domestic research on similar subjects in recent decades. On the basis of correlation analysis, the authour’s grouping of factors of the development of air transport has been proposed with the identification of the main, secondary and minor, which served as the basis for identifying the differentiation of administrative regions of Belarus by the level of accessibility of passenger air transportation. The results indicate that 40 % of the administrative regions or about 50 % of the population are characterised by limited abilities to consume air transport services, which requires diversification of the number of carriers and more intensive use of the existing air transport infrastructure. Based on this, special attention is paid to the use of the capabilities of regional airports and the potential development of domestic regional air traffic. These proposals will increase the availability of passenger air transportation, which will reduce up to 10 % the share of the population with disabilities in the consumption of air transport services.
Integrative processes in education: new challenges for Belarus
Authors: Laputsky Victor S.
Published: January 2021

The article examines the main problems faced by Belarusian higher education in the framework of internationalisation over the past five years, analyses the integration of Belarus into the international educational space. This period was marked by new challenges – the process of entering the European Higher Education Area was complicated by the difficult fulfilment of a number of requirements, and in the Eurasian Economic Union education is not among the priority areas. Inbound mobility flows have declined due to external factors. The current situation requires a comprehensive solution that includes strategic and tactical changes in the educational sphere. The article proposes ways of solving new problems of higher education.
Rating system as an element of human resource management at tertiary level
Authors: Bogush Tatiana A. , Selverstova Svetlana E. , Maksimuk Ekaterina G.
Published: January 2021

The article describes the functioning of the rating system in the Republic of Belarus, the Russian Federation and in a number of European countries such as Poland, Portugal, Spain, where rating systems have been developed taking into account regional and national characteristics of the traditions of higher education. The authors, relying on the materials of international forums on higher education, discovered a number of patterns that broaden the understanding of the rating and the peculiarities of its functioning in various educational centers of European countries, as well as in the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation. The Lisbon strategy also continued deepening into the practice of focusing on the base knowledge economy, where a decisive place is given to optimizing the human resources of higher education institutions in training highly qualified specialists for such an economy.
The Truth and Myth of the Advantages of Authoritarian Countries to COVID-19
Authors: Annaka Susumu
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic—the worst pandemic since the Spanish flu—has dramatically changed the world, with a significant number of people still suffering and dying from the disease. Some scholars argue that the pandemic has severely damaged democratic countries, mainly because they cannot intervene in their citizens' lives, as opposed to their authoritarian counterparts. This paper reports that authoritarian countries tend to have lower COVID-19 deaths than their democratic counterparts, but stringent intervention is not necessarily a key determinant. A higher number of tests is a more critical determinant of authoritarian countries' advantage, using cross-national data for 163 countries. Testing seems to be a vital tool to reduce deaths (IRR=0.66, P < 0.001). This study uses statistical evidence to demonstrate that authoritarian countries are likely to conduct more tests leading to lower death rates. The result implies that authoritarian states can strengthen citizens' support for their government through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Advantage of Incumbents in Coalitional Bargaining
Authors: Meriläinen Jaakko , Tukiainen Janne
Published: January 2021

The composition of governing coalitions does not always reflect the relative sizes of the coalition members, but research has not been able to fully reconcile why. We propose that political parties with more (re-elected) incumbent representatives fare better in coalitional bargaining. To evaluate this argument empirically, we construct a data set of parties and governing coalitions in Finnish local governments. Using an instrumental variable strategy that hinges on within-party close elections between incumbents and non-incumbents, we find that, ceteris paribus, having more re-elected incumbents improves a party’s coalitional bargaining outcomes. Descriptive evidence suggests that incumbent representation is particularly useful when a party is in a disadvantaged position (e.g., it is ideologically distant from other parties) and when the bargaining environment is more complex (e.g., there are more parties). Lastly, incumbent representation also matters for selection: parties that have more incumbent representatives nominate more incumbents in the municipal executive.
Meeting Sustainable Development Goals: Alternative Extraction Processes for Fucoxanthin in Algae
Authors: Foo Su Chern , Khoo Kuan Shiong , Ooi Chien Wei , Show Pau Loke , Khong Nicholas M. H. , Yusoff Fatimah Md.
Published: January 2021

The ever-expanding human population puts tremendous pressure on global food security. With climate change threats lowering crop productivity and food nutritional quality, it is important to search for alternative and sustainable food sources. Microalgae are a promising carbon-neutral biomass with fast growth rate and do not compete with terrestrial crops for land use. More so, microalgae synthesize exclusive marine carotenoids shown to not only exert antioxidant activities but also anti-cancer properties. Unfortunately, the conventional method for fucoxanthin extraction is mainly based on solvent extraction, which is cheap but less environmentally friendly. With the emergence of greener extraction techniques, the extraction of fucoxanthin could adopt these strategies aligned to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is a timely review with a focus on existing fucoxanthin extraction processes, complemented with future outlook on the potential and limitations in alternative fucoxanthin extraction technologies. This review will serve as an important guide to the sustainable and environmentally friendly extraction of fucoxanthin and other carotenoids including but not limited to astaxanthin, lutein or zeaxanthin. This is aligned to the SDGs wherein it is envisaged that this review becomes an antecedent to further research work in extract standardization with the goal of meeting quality control and quality assurance benchmarks for future commercialization purposes.
HMGB1, the Next Predictor of Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization for Liver Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer?
Authors: Sun Yuan-dong , Zhang Hao , Chen Ye-qiang , Wu Chun-xue , Zhang Jian-bo , Xu Hui-rong , Liu Jing-zhou , Han Jian-jun
Published: January 2021

HMGB1 is an important mediator of inflammation during ischemia–reperfusion injury on organs. The serum expression of HMGB1 was increased significantly on the 1st day after TACE and decreased significantly which was lower on the 30th day after TACE. Tumor markers of post-DEB-TACE decreased significantly. The correlational analysis showed that patients with low HMGB1 expression had lower risks of fever and liver injury compared those with the higher expression, while the ORR is relatively worse. Patients with lower expression of HMGB1 had longer PFS, better efficacy, and higher quality of life. With the high post-expression, the low expression had lower incidence of fever and liver injury too. There was no statistical difference in the one-year survival among the different groups. The quality of life of all patients was improved significantly. The over-expression of HMGB1 in LMCRC is an adverse prognostic feature and a positive predictor of response to TACE.
Modelling and Test of an Integrated Magnetic Spring-Eddy Current Damper for Space Applications
Authors: Diez-Jimenez Efren , Alén-Cordero Cristina , Alcover-Sánchez Roberto , Corral-Abad Eduardo
Published: January 2021

We present the design, manufacturing, and dynamical characterization of a mechanical suspension made by a passive magnetic spring and an eddy current damper integrated into a single device. Three configurations with 2, 3, and 4 permanent magnets axially distributed with opposite polarizations are designed, simulated, manufactured, and tested. Stiffness of 2410, 2050, 2090 N/m and damping coefficient of 5.45, 10.52 and 17.25 Ns/m are measured for the 2-, 3-, and 4-magnets configurations, respectively. The magnetic suspension provides good mechanical properties combined with excellent cleanness and high reliability, which is very desirable in mechanical systems for space applications.
Diversity of Segetal Flora in Salix viminalis L. Crops Established on Former Arable and Fallow Lands in Central Poland
Authors: Janicka Maria , Kutkowska Aneta , Paderewski Jakub
Published: January 2021

The flora of willow (Salix viminalis L.) plantations consists of various plant groups, including plants related to arable land, called segetal plants. Knowledge of this flora is important for maintaining biodiversity in agroecosystems. The aim of the study was to assess the segetal flora of the willow plantations in central Poland, depending on the land use before the establishment of the plantations (arable land or fallow) and the age of the plantations. Moreover, the aim was also to check for the presence of invasive, medicinal, poisonous and melliferous species. The vegetation accompanying willow was identified based on an analysis of 60 phytosociological relevés performed using the Braun-Blanquet method. For each species, the following parameters were determined: the phytosociological class; family; geographical and historical group; apophyte origin; biological stability; life-form; and status as an invasive, medicinal (herbs), poisonous or melliferous species. The results were statistically processed. Segetal species accounted for 38% of the flora accompanying willow. The plantations on former arable land were richer in segetal species than those on fallow. Mostly, short-lived and native species dominated. In line with the age of the plantations, the number of segetal species decreased. The share of apophytes increased, and anthropophytes decreased. Furthermore, many valuable plants were found among the flora accompanying willow.
Development of a Group-Adapted Housing System for Pregnant Sows: A Field Study on Performance and Welfare Aspects
Authors: Angermann Eva , Raoult Camille M. C. , Wensch-Dorendorf Monika , Frenking Stephanie , Kemper Nicole , von Borell Eberhard
Published: January 2021

A Sow-Welfare-Optimized-Feeding (SWOF) system with group-adapted ad libitum liquid feeding was developed to ensure that both optimal nutritional and behavioral needs are met in group-housed pregnant sows. This system comprises functional areas and allows sows to have either a low- or high-energy diet according to their current weight in relation to their parity. This field study aimed to investigate how this new system influences sows’ body weight, health status (lameness), aggression parameters (integument injuries, vulva injuries, and displacements at the trough), feed intake rhythm, and litter performance. In parallel, these parameters were also recorded in the existing system (group-housed sows restrictively fed a dry diet). In the SWOF system, the probability of displacements at the trough and occurrence of vulva injuries were reduced, whereas sows could follow a natural biphasic feed intake rhythm. Though lameness scores and litter performance were not affected, lower body weights and more integument injuries were, however, observed. Yet, results can only partially be attributed to the feeding system per se due to confounding effects such as management practices and group size differences (larger dynamic group vs. stable group). Hence, the SWOF system seems promising with regard to animal welfare but remains to be further validated.
Effect of Calcium on the Growth of Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz.) Sprouts
Authors: Chao Yun-Yang , Wang Wei-Jia , Liu Yan-Ting
Published: January 2021

Taiwanese quinoa (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz, commonly known as djulis) is a close relative of quinoa, is rich in nutritional value and high active components, such as, betaine and polyphenols, and is a vital food crop. We investigated the effects of calcium carbonate on the growth and physiology of Djulis sprouts because calcium is an essential nutrient for plants that can strengthen a plant’s root system and improve its nutrient absorption; moreover, under abiotic stress, calcium transmits messages to enhance cell tolerance. Experiments were conducted using 0, 1.25, 2.5, and 5 mM calcium carbonate hydroponic liquid treatment. Treatment with 5 mM calcium carbonate promoted the growth of djulis; specifically, root length, plant height, aboveground fresh weight, and dry weight increased by 55%, 12%, 37%, and 17%, respectively. In further investigation of the physiological change of djulis sprouts treated with calcium carbonate, the results showed that after 5 days of treatment with 5 mM calcium carbonate, the contents of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde decreased significantly while the chlorophyll content increased significantly. Antioxidant enzyme activity was significantly improved. The activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were increased by 42%, 25%, 35.7%, and 56.4%, respectively, and the calcium content of the aboveground and underground plant parts was increased fourfold and threefold, respectively. The content of proline, regarded as an osmoprotectant, was reduced by 12%. Thus, we concluded that treatment of djulis sprouts with 5 mM calcium carbonate can improve their antioxidant capacity, reduce the content of reactive oxygen species, and promote crop growth.
Effects of In Vitro Interactions of Oviduct Epithelial Cells with Frozen–Thawed Stallion Spermatozoa on Their Motility, Viability and Capacitation Status
Authors: Gimeno Brenda Florencia , Bariani María Victoria , Laiz-Quiroga Lucía , Martínez-León Eduardo , Von-Meyeren Micaela , Rey Osvaldo , Mutto Adrián Ángel , Osycka-Salut Claudia Elena
Published: January 2021

Cryopreservation by negatively affecting sperm quality decreases the efficiency of assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs). Thus, we first evaluated sperm motility at different conditions for the manipulation of equine cryopreserved spermatozoa. Higher motility was observed when spermatozoa were incubated for 30 min at 30 × 106/mL compared to lower concentrations (p < 0.05) and when a short centrifugation at 200× g was performed (p < 0.05). Moreover, because sperm suitable for oocyte fertilization is released from oviduct epithelial cells (OECs), in response to the capacitation process, we established an in vitro OEC culture model to select a sperm population with potential fertilizing capacity in this species. We demonstrated E-cadherin and cytokeratin expression in cultures of OECs obtained. When sperm–OEC cocultures were performed, the attached spermatozoa were motile and presented an intact acrosome, suggesting a selection by the oviductal model. When co-cultures were incubated in capacitating conditions a greater number of alive (p < 0.05), capacitated (p < 0.05), with progressive motility (p < 0.05) and with the intact acrosome sperm population was observed (p < 0.05) suggesting that the sperm population released from OECs in vitro presents potential fertilizing capacity. Improvements in handling and selection of cryopreserved sperm would improve efficiencies in ARTs allowing the use of a population of higher-quality sperm.
Non-Invasive Monitoring of Adrenocortical Activity in Three Sympatric Desert Gerbil Species
Authors: Navarro-Castilla Álvaro , Garrido Mario , Hawlena Hadas , Barja Isabel
Published: January 2021

The study of the endocrine status can be useful to understand wildlife responses to the changing environment. Here, we validated an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) to non-invasively monitor adrenocortical activity by measuring fecal corticosterone metabolites (FCM) in three sympatric gerbil species (Gerbillus andersoni, G. gerbillus and G. pyramidum) from the Northwestern Negev Desert’s sands (Israel). Animals included into treatment groups were injected with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) to stimulate adrenocortical activity, while control groups received a saline solution. Feces were collected at different intervals and FCM were quantified by an EIA. Basal FCM levels were similar in the three species. The ACTH effect was evidenced, but the time of FCM peak concentrations appearance differed between the species (6–24 h post-injection). Furthermore, FCM peak values were observed sooner in G. andersoni females than in males (6 h and 18 h post-injection, respectively). G. andersoni and G. gerbillus males in control groups also increased FCM levels (18 h and 48 h post-injection, respectively). Despite the small sample sizes, our results confirmed the EIA suitability for analyzing FCM in these species as a reliable indicator of the adrenocortical activity. This study also revealed that close species, and individuals within a species, can respond differently to the same stressor.
Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Defense Mechanisms in Response to Starvation and Refeeding in the Intestine of Stellate Sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus) Juveniles from Aquaculture
Authors: Florescu (Gune) Iulia Elena , Georgescu Sergiu Emil , Dudu Andreea , Balaș Mihaela , Voicu Sorina , Grecu Iulia , Dediu Lorena , Dinischiotu Anca , Costache Marieta
Published: January 2021

Acipenser stellatus is a critically endangered species due to the anthropic influence. It has been intensively captured for decades because of its high economic value, its roe being used in the caviar industry. Therefore, Acipenser stellatus is intensively raised in fish farms for both conservation and economical purposes. Aquaculture aims to optimize the feeding regime of juveniles in order to improve its profitability. The purpose of this study was to investigate if Acipenser stellatus can adapt to a starvation/refeeding regime by assessing the effects of this regime on oxidative stress biomarkers and antioxidant defense mechanisms in juveniles raised under aquaculture conditions. The juveniles were subjected to two regimes: a 7-day starvation period followed by 21 days of refeeding, respectively a 14-day starvation period followed by 21 days of refeeding. The results showed that both starvation/refeeding regimes induced an enhancement of antioxidant enzymes activities in the intestine of the juveniles. The oxidative damage was counteracted at the protein level. However, lipid peroxidation was significantly induced in the intestine of the juveniles subjected to 14/21-day starvation/refeeding regime. The 7/21-day starvation/refeeding regime proved to be more suitable for Acipenser stellatus and therefore, it could be useful to optimize the feeding practice in aquaculture production.
Fluoroquinolone Can Be an Effective Treatment Option for Acute Pyelonephritis When the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of Levofloxacin for the Causative Escherichia coli Is ≤16 mg/L
Authors: Kim Yeonjae , Kim Bongyoung , Wie Seong Heon , Kim Jieun , Ki Moran , Cho Yong Kyun , Lim Seung Kwan , Lee Jin Seo , Kwon Ki Tae , Lee Hyuck , Cheong Hee Jin , Park Dae Won , Ryu Seong Yeol , Chung Moon Hyun , Pai Hyunjoo
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the fluoroquinolone (FQ) minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for the causative agent Escherichia coli influences the clinical response of FQ treatment at 72 h in patients with community-acquired acute pyelonephritis (CA-APN). We prospectively collected the clinical data of women with CA-APN from 11 university hospitals from March 2010 to February 2012 as well as E. coli isolates from the urine or blood. In total, 78 patients included in this study received FQ during the initial 72 h, and the causative E. coli was detected. The clinical response at 72 h was significantly higher in patients with a levofloxacin MIC ≤ 16 mg/L than in those with an MIC > 16 mg/L (70.4% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.038). No difference was observed in clinical response at 72 h based on ciprofloxacin MIC. To summarize, FQ can be an effective treatment option for CA-APN when levofloxacin MIC against E. coli is ≤16 mg/L.
The Role of Subinhibitory Concentrations of Daptomycin and Tigecycline in Modulating Virulence in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Atshan Salman Sahab , Hamat Rukman Awang , Coolen Marco J. L. , Dykes Gary , Sekawi Zamberi , Mullins Benjamin J. , Than Leslie Thian Lung , Abduljaleel Salwa A. , Kicic Anthony
Published: January 2021

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infections are notoriously complicated by the ability of the organism to grow in biofilms and are difficult to eradicate with antimicrobial therapy. The purpose of the current study was to clarify the influence of sub-inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of daptomycin and tigecycline antibiotics on biofilm adhesion factors and exoproteins expressions by S. aureus clinical isolates. Six clinical isolates representing positive biofilm S. aureus clones (3 methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) and 3 methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA)) were grown with sub-MICs (0.5 MIC) of two antibiotics (daptomycin and tigecycline) for 12 h of incubation. RNA extracted from culture pellets was used via relative quantitative real-time-PCR (qRT-PCR) to determine expression of specific adhesion (fnbA, fnbB, clfA, clfB, fib, ebps, cna, eno) and biofilm (icaADBC) genes. To examine the effect of sub-MIC of these antibiotics on the expression of extracellular proteins, samples from the culture supernatants of six isolates were collected after 12 h of treatment with or without tigecycline in order to profile protein production via 2D gel sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D gel-SDS-PAGE). Sub-MIC treatment of all clinical MRSA and MSSA strains with daptomycin or tigecycline dramatically induced or suppressed fnbA, fnbB, clfA, clfB, fib, ebps, cna, eno, and icaADBC gene expression. Furthermore, sub-MIC use of tigecycline significantly reduced the total number of separated protein spots across all the isolates, as well as decreasing production of certain individual proteins. Collectively, this study showed very different responses in terms of both gene expression and protein secretion across the various isolates. In addition, our results suggest that sub-MIC usage of daptomycin and tigecycline could signal virulence induction by S. aureus via the regulation of biofilm adhesion factor genes and exoproteins. If translating findings to the clinical treatment of S. aureus, the therapeutic regimen should be adapted depending on antibiotic, the virulence factor and strain type.
Screening of an FDA-Approved Library for Novel Drugs against Y. pestis
Authors: Gur David , Chitlaru Theodor , Mamroud Emanuelle , Zauberman Ayelet
Published: January 2021

Yersinia pestis is a Gram-negative pathogen that causes plague, a devastating disease that kills millions worldwide. Although plague is efficiently treatable by recommended antibiotics, the time of antibiotic therapy initiation is critical, as high mortality rates have been observed if treatment is delayed for longer than 24 h after symptom onset. To overcome the emergence of antibiotic resistant strains, we attempted a systematic screening of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs to identify alternative compounds which may possess antibacterial activity against Y. pestis. Here, we describe a drug-repurposing approach, which led to the identification of two antibiotic-like activities of the anticancer drugs bleomycin sulfate and streptozocin that have the potential for designing novel antiplague therapy approaches. The inhibitory characteristics of these two drugs were further addressed as well as their efficiency in affecting the growth of Y. pestis strains resistant to doxycycline and ciprofloxacin, antibiotics recommended for plague treatment.
A New Promising Anti-Infective Agent Inhibits Biofilm Growth by Targeting Simultaneously a Conserved RNA Function That Controls Multiple Genes
Authors: Seyler Thorsten M. , Moore Christina , Kim Haein , Ramachandran Sheetal , Agris Paul F.
Published: January 2021

Combating single and multi-drug-resistant infections in the form of biofilms is an immediate challenge. The challenge is to discover innovative targets and develop novel chemistries that combat biofilms and drug-resistant organisms, and thwart emergence of future resistant strains. An ideal novel target would control multiple genes, and can be inhibited by a single compound. We previously demonstrated success against Staphylococcus aureus biofilms by targeting the tRNA-dependent regulated T-box genes, not present in the human host. Present in Gram-positive bacteria, T-box genes attenuate transcription with a riboswitch-like element that regulates the expression of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and amino acid metabolism genes required for cell viability. PKZ18, the parent of a family of compounds selected in silico from 305,000 molecules, inhibits the function of the conserved T-box regulatory element and thus blocks growth of antibiotic-resistant S. aureus in biofilms. The PKZ18 analog PKZ18-22 was 10-fold more potent than vancomycin in inhibiting growth of S. aureus in biofilms. In addition, PKZ18-22 has a synergistic effect with existing antibiotics, e.g., gentamicin and rifampin. PKZ18-22 inhibits the T-box regulatory mechanism, halts the transcription of vital genes, and results in cell death. These effects are independent of the growth state, planktonic or biofilm, of the bacteria, and could inhibit emergent strains.
Natural Food Supplements Reduce Oxidative Stress in Primary Neurons and in the Mouse Brain, Suggesting Applications in the Prevention of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Bobadilla Miriam , García-Sanmartín Josune , Martínez Alfredo
Published: January 2021

Neurodegenerative diseases pose a major health problem for developed countries, and stress has been identified as one of the main risk factors in the development of these disorders. Here, we have examined the protective properties against oxidative stress of several bioactive natural food supplements. We found that MecobalActive®, Olews®, and red and white grape seed polyphenol extracts may have a neuroprotective effect in vitro, both in the SH-SY 5Y cell line and in hippocampal neuron cultures, mainly by reducing reactive oxygen species levels and decreasing caspase-3 activity. In vivo, we demonstrated that oral administration of the supplements reduces the expression of genes involved in inflammation and oxidation mechanisms, whereas it increments the expression of genes related to protection against oxidative stress. Furthermore, we found that preventive treatment with these natural extracts increases the activity of antioxidant enzymes and prevents lipid peroxidation in the brain of stressed mice. Thus, our results indicate that some natural bioactive supplements may have important protective properties against oxidative stress processes occurring in the brain.
Event-Related Coherence in Visual Cortex and Brain Noise: An MEG Study
Authors: Chholak Parth , Kurkin Semen A. , Hramov Alexander E. , Pisarchik Alexander N.
Published: January 2021

The analysis of neurophysiological data using the two most widely used open-source MATLAB toolboxes, FieldTrip and Brainstorm, validates our hypothesis about the correlation between event-related coherence in the visual cortex and neuronal noise. The analyzed data were obtained from magnetoencephalography (MEG) experiments based on visual perception of flickering stimuli, in which fifteen subjects effectively participated. Before coherence and brain noise calculations, MEG data were first transformed from recorded channel data to brain source waveforms by solving the inverse problem. The inverse solution was obtained for a 2D cortical shape in Brainstorm and a 3D volume in FieldTrip. We found that stronger brain entrainment to the visual stimuli concurred with higher brain noise in both studies.
Passive Solar Solutions for Buildings: Criteria and Guidelines for a Synergistic Design
Authors: Cillari Giacomo , Fantozzi Fabio , Franco Alessandro
Published: January 2021

Passive solar system design is an essential asset in a zero-energy building perspective to reduce heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation loads. The integration of passive systems in building leads to a reduction of plant operation with considerable environmental benefits. The design can be related to intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence the final performance in a synergistic way. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive view of the elements that influence passive solar systems by means of an analysis of the theoretical background and the synergistic design of various solutions available. The paper quantifies the potential impact of influencing factors on the final performance and then investigates a case study of an existing public building, analyzing the effects of the integration of different passive systems through energy simulations. General investigation has highlighted that latitude and orientation impact energy saving on average by 3–13 and 6–11 percentage points, respectively. The case study showed that almost 20% of the building energy demand can be saved by means of passive solar systems. A higher contribution is given by mixing direct and indirect solutions, as half of the heating and around 25% of the cooling energy demand can be cut off.
Roll-to-Roll In-Line Implementation of Microwave Free-Space Non-Destructive Evaluation of Conductive Composite Thin Layer Materials
Authors: Koutsoukis Grigorios , Alic Ivan , Vavouliotis Antonios , Kienberger Ferry , Haddadi Kamel
Published: January 2021

A free-space microwave nondestructive testing and evaluation module is developed for the low-power, non-ionizing, contactless, and real-time characterization of doped composite thin-film materials in an industrial context. The instrumentation proposed is built up with a handled vector network analyzer interfaced with corrugated horn antennas to measure the near-field complex reflection S11 of planar prepreg composite materials in a roll-to-roll in-line production line. Dedicated modeling and calibrations routines are developed to extract the microwave conductivity from the measured microwave signal. Practical extraction of the radiofrequency (RF) conductivity of thin film prepreg composite materials doped with nano-powders is exemplary shown at the test frequency of 10 GHz.
A Vehicle Guidance Model with a Close-to-Reality Driver Model and Different Levels of Vehicle Automation
Authors: Ma Xiaoyi , Hu Xiaowei , Schweig Stephan , Pragalathan Jenitta , Schramm Dieter
Published: January 2021

This paper presents a microscopic vehicle guidance model which adapts to different levels of vehicle automation. Independent of the vehicle, the driver model built is different from the common microscopic simulation models that regard the driver and the vehicle as a unit. The term “Vehicle Guidance Model” covers, here, both the human driver as well as a combination of human driver and driver assistance system up to fully autonomously operated vehicles without a (human) driver. Therefore, the vehicle guidance model can be combined with different kinds of vehicle models. As a result, the combination of different types of driver (human/machine) and different types of vehicle (internal combustion engine/electric) can be simulated. Mainly two parts constitute the vehicle guidance model in this paper: the first part is a traditional microscopic car-following model adjusted according to different degrees of automation level. The adjusted model represents the automation level for the present and the near and the more distant future. The second part is a fuzzy control model that describes how humans adjust the pedal position when they want to reach a target speed with their vehicle. An experiment with 34 subjects was carried out with a driving simulator based on the experimental data and the fuzzy control strategy was determined. Finally, when comparing the simulated model data and actual driving data, it is found that the fuzzy model for the human driver can reproduce the behavior of human participants almost accurately.
Hybrid Model Predictive Control of Semiactive Suspension in Electric Vehicle with Hub-Motor
Authors: Jiang Hong , Wang Chengchong , Li Zhongxing , Liu Chenlai
Published: January 2021

In hub-motor electric vehicles (HM-EVs), the unbalanced electromagnetic force generated by the HM will further deteriorate the dynamic performance of the electric vehicle. In this paper, a semiactive suspension control method is proposed for HM-EVs. A quarter HM-EV model with an electromechanical coupling effect is established.The model consists of three parts: a motor model, road excitation model and vehicle model. A hybrid model predictive controller (HMPC) is designed based on the developed model, taking into account the nonlinear constraints of damping force. The focus is on improving the vertical performance of the HM-EV. Then, a Kalman filter is designed to provide the required state variables for the controller. The proposed control algorithm and constrained optimal control (COC) algorithm are simulation compared under random road excitation and bump road excitation, and the results show that the proposed control algorithm can improve ride comfort, reduce motor vibration, and improve handling stability more substantially.
Liensinine Prevents Vascular Inflammation by Attenuating Inflammatory Mediators and Modulating VSMC Function
Authors: Jun Moon Young , Karki Rajendra , Paudel Keshav Raj , Panth Nisha , Devkota Hari Prasad , Kim Dong-Wook
Published: January 2021

Liensinine is a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid found in various parts of the lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) including seeds. In this study, we explored the preventive activity of liensinine on vascular inflammation via attenuation of inflammatory mediators in macrophage and targeting the proliferation and migration of human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Anti-oxidative activity was evaluated by using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay method and measuring the peroxidation of serum lipid. Inflammatory markers were studied by evaluating the release of nitric oxide (NO) and the protein levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX-2) in macrophage cells (RAW264.7) and interleukin (IL)-6 production in VSMC. Similarly, anti-proliferative activity in VSMC was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The enzymatic activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 in VSMC was evaluated by gelatin zymography. Liensinine possesses significant anti-oxidative activity as revealed by the DPPH assay and inhibition of serum lipid peroxidation. Likewise, liensinine decreased NO generation in RAW 264.7 cells. In VSMC, liensinine suppressed platelet-derived growth factor stimulated proliferation and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induced MMP-9 enzymatic activity as well as IL-6 expression. Our results revealed the potential preventive effect of liensinine on vascular inflammation, suggesting it as a promising compound for the prevention of vascular inflammation.
High-Input Impedance Voltage-Mode Multifunction Filter
Authors: Wang San-Fu , Chen Hua-Pin , Ku Yitsen , Li Yi-Fang
Published: January 2021

This paper proposes a high-input impedance voltage-mode (VM) multifunction biquad filter which employs three current-feedback amplifiers (CFAs), three resistors, and two grounded capacitors. The proposed VM multifunction biquad filter has single-input and triple-output and can realize non-inverting low-pass (NLP), inverting band-pass (IBP), and non-inverting band-stop (NBS) voltage responses at the same time without increasing component selection. The proposed VM multifunction biquad filter enjoys the orthogonal tunability of angular frequency and quality factor and also provides the advantage of using only two grounded capacitors, high-input impedance and low active/passive sensitivity. The performance of the proposed VM multifunction biquad filter is verified through its hardware implementation and OrCAD PSpice simulation based on AD844-type CFAs. The circuit analysis, sensitivity analysis, and NLP, IBP, and NBS voltage responses are also shown in this paper. The paper presents a method to effectively reduce the active and passive components, maintain good circuit performance, and reduce circuit costs.