bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR IPA MELALUI MEDIA GAMBAR PADA SISWA KELAS IIA SDN 78 PEKANBARU
Authors: Panjaitan Seriani
Published: April 2019

Natural Sciences (IPA) is one of the important lesson in learning. Even for the upper secondary level or high school level, this subject to one program penjurusan which will determine the students majoring in College. In addition, this science subjects also joined the national final examination (UAN) who became the main requirements for students graduating. The research design used in this research is the class action research (PKT). The aspect that is observed on each cycle and is the result of the learning and teaching process subjects source of energy and its benefits using media pictures. The subject of the learning improvement activities are the students of class 2 SDN 78 Pekanbaru with the number of students 39 people with the details of 20 students of male and female students 19 people. The results of research on the pre cycle, the value of the results of the learning science students, the average 43,08 and there are no students who achieve KKM. Then on the cycle I the results of learning science students an average of 1.807 and students who achieve KKM 9 students (23%). At cycle II, the value of the average student learning results reach 82,56 and students who achieve KKM 39 students (100%). The implementation of the media image can improve the results of learning science students on the subjects of energy sources and benefits. The learning process explains the source of energy and its benefits the sequence on each cycle apply media image and be led by the researchers and observers.
PENGGUNAAN MEDIA GAMBAR UNTUK MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR IPA SISWA KELAS VI C SDN 004 TEMBILAHAN KOTA
Authors: Ambarwati Retno
Published: April 2019

The background of this study is the low grade science students learning outcomes VI C SDN 004 Tembilahan Kota, Of the 23 students, only 9 students (39.13%) were completed. Based on this the researchers conducted the study by applying image media to improve learning outcomes IPA. This research is a class act who performed a total of two cycles consisting of two meetings, the study was conducted with four phases, namely planning, implementation stage, the stage of observation and reflection stages. The study states that science learning outcomes of students has increased in each cycle, this is evidenced by the increasing average student learning outcomes, the preliminary data the average student learning outcomes at 66.00 has increased in the first cycle of up to 83.30, and increased up to 91.74. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the application of drawing media can improve learning outcomes VI grade science students SDN 004 Tembilahan Kota.
PENERAPAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF TIPE STAD UNTUK MENINGKATKAN MINAT BELAJAR PKN SISWA KELAS V SD NEGERI 008 BUKIT KAYU KAPUR
Authors: Guantoro Ahmad
Published: April 2019

The background of this study is the low interest in learning civics class V students SD Negeri 008 Bukit Kayu Kapur. It is caused by: (a) very few number of students active during the learning process by using group work; (b) the need for students to ask questions or submit proposals to the lack of teachers is organized so that the impression received by the students are less significant; (c) although the number of students is ideal, but the enthusiasm of students in learning is still less visible, especially at the time of the question and answer; (D) of the 23 students were only 11 or 47.8% of students are serious in taking into account the subject matter of civic education takes place, whereas other students do not pay attention to lessons with enthusiasm; and (e) although the teacher has done a variety of ways, but have not been able to increase students' interest in learning, meaning ways done to date has not brought significant progress to increase their interest in learning. For that conducted the research with the aim to increase students' interest in learning civics through the implementation of cooperative learning model STAD. This classroom action research conducted in SDN 08 Bukit Kayu Kapur, the research was conducted pad from January to June 2009. The subjects were fifth grade students of SD Negeri 008 Bukit Kayu Kapur amounting to 23 students. Parameters measured research is student interest, teacher and student activity. Results showed that student interest has increased in the first cycle average student interest obtained a score of 86 (62.60%), the second cycle increased by an average score of 108 (78.30%). Additionally teacher activity also increased, in the first cycle average teacher activity score was 30 (67.00%), increased in the second cycle with an average score of activity of teachers and 38 (84.00%). Student activity also increased in the first cycle an average score of student activity is, increased in the second cycle with an average score of 164 (79.10%). It can be concluded from the results of class V students studying civics A SDN 08 Bukit Kayu Kapur can be increased through the implementation of cooperative learning model STAD.
PENERAPAN MEDIA GAMBAR UNTUK MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR PJOK SISWA KELAS IV SD NEGERI 004 TEMBILAHAN KOTA KECAMATAN TEMBILAHAN
Authors: Muharis Muharis
Published: April 2019

This study is peneilitian class action was motivated by the low learning PJKO fourth grade students SD Negeri 004 Tembilahan Kota. This is evident from the acquisition value of the average students who are still under the KKM is equal to 56,00 being KKM specified value is 61, other than that of the 20 students only 7 (35.00%) students who completed their study results. Based on this the researchers applied media with the aim of improving student learning outcomes PJOK. This classroom action research conducted in SD Negeri 004 Tembilahan Kota in the fourth grade with the number of students 20 students, the study was conducted 2 cycles and be done with four stages: planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The results showed that after the implementation of learning media, learning outcomes PJOK increase, evidenced by the acquisition: "At the initial data is the number of students who completed 7 students (35.00%) with an average nilaia 56.00, in the first cycle increased by the number of students who completed totaling 13 students (65.00%) with the average value of students increased to 72.50. And the second cycle learning outcomes increased with the number of students who completed the acquisition of up to 19 students (95.00%) with the acquisition value by an average of 83.25. Based on this acquisition can be concluded that the application of instructional media can improve learning outcomes PJOK fourth grade students SD Negeri 004 Tembilahan Kota.
PENGGUNAAN METODE PEMBELAJARAN KONTEKSTUAL (CONTEXTUAL TEACHING AND LEARNING) UNTUK MENINGKATKAN AKTIVITAS DAN HASIL BELAJAR IPS SISWA KELAS III A SD NEGERI 02 KUNDUR
Authors: Usman Raja
Published: April 2019

This research is done because the still low student's IPS score is 62. Learning process in favor of the teacher is not on the student side. The subject matter that is delivered is the environment and implement the cooperation of third grade students of SD Negeri 02 Kundur. Type of research, classroom action research (PTK). The study was conducted in two cycles. Prior to carrying out the action, a preliminary test is conducted to find out how far students have knowledge. Learning method uses contextual teaching and learning (CTL) method. Data collection techniques by making RPP, Observation, action, reflection, and evaluation while the technique of data analysis is by observation techniques, interviews, results of relection, and evaluation. The research subjects of third grade students of SD Negeri 02 Kundur, consist of 13 women, and 14 men. Prasiklus 72.59 did not complete 37,04% and 63,96% complete, cycle I, 77,70 not 55,56% complete and complete to 44,44% and cycle II increased to 100%. Total prasiklus value of 1959 lowest 66 and 90 highest, cycle I total value 2098, low 65 and highest 93, cycle II number 2280, lowest score 70 and highest value 95. So the use of CTL method can improve student learning result of SD Negeri 02 Kundur.
PENINGKATAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR IPA MELALUI IMPLEMENTASI METODE INQUIRY SISWA KELAS V SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Mahlianurrahman Mahlianurrahman
Published: April 2019

This research is motivated by the low motivation of students in grade V SD Negeri Pasi Pinang. This study aimsto describe the effort to improve students' learning motivation through the use of inquiry methods and toincrease learning motivation through the use of inquiry method in science subjects. The type of this research isclassroom action research, the subject of this research is the students of class V SD Negeri Pasi Pinang whichamounted to 24 students. The object of this research is the improvement of students' learning motivation inscience subjects. The results showed that the use of inquiry method can improve the motivation of students ingrade V SD Negeri Pasi Pinang. This can be seen from the average score of students' learning motivation incycle I is 60.2%, in cycle II increases with score 70.5%, and cycle III increases with score 92.8%. based on theresults of these studies indicate that the student's learning motivation every cycle has increased after appliedinquiry method.
PENGGUNAAN BAHAN ALAM UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KREATIVITAS SISWA KELAS V MEMBUAT CETAK/ SENI GRAFIS DI SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Guslinda Guslinda , Witri Gustimal
Published: April 2019

The reasearcher found that there was low students’ creativity in learning painting arts, especially on the graphicarts. The purpose of this research was to improve on year Vc students’ creativity in making graphic arts by usingthe natural material at Public Elementary School (SDN) 112 Pekanbaru. This research used the classroomaction research and it had two cycles for each process. Based on the data analysis for the first cycle, the resultindicated that there were 2 students got (5%) for high creative category, 16 students (40%) for an adequatecreative category, and there were 22 students’ (55%) on the level of low creative category. In other words, theaverage of the first cycle result was 63,97%. Furthermore, after using the natural material at the end of cycle I,there was the improvement on each category. They are 17,5% (7 students) for high creativity, 82,5% (33students) for an adequate creativity. It showed that there was 69,06% for its cyclical average. Moreover, at theend of cycle II, the students’ creativity improved significantly into 81,8% in comparing with cycle I. That is, 12students (30%) got high category for the creativity, 16 students (40%) got creative category, and 12 students(30%) were on the level of an adequate creative category. Based on the data result above, it can be concludedthat the use of natural material can improve year Vc students’ creativity in making graphic arts at PublicElementary School 112 Pekanbaru.
PENERAPAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN ROLE PLAYING UNTUK MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR IPA SISWA KELAS VI SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Mardalena Dwi
Published: April 2019

This research is motivated by the results of student learning science VI low grade of primary school 9 DuriBarat with an average value of 67.14. Therefore, the researchers provide learning alternatives to the applicationby implementing role playing model in class VI SD Negeri 9 Duri Barat. This research aims to improve studentlearning outcomes VI Elementary School science class 9 Duri Barat Application by implementing role playingmodel. This research is a form of classroom action research (PTK) with 2 cycles. Based on research data anlisisafter applying by implementing role playing model, the average percentage of the activity of teachers in the firstcycle of 62.5% increased to 85.25% in the second cycle. The average percentage of student activity alsoincreased 50% in the first cycle increased to 83.3% in the second cycle. Student learning outcomes in basicscore with an average of 67.14 with 50% completion percentage of classes and the first cycle increased with anaverage value of 75.17 class with an increasing percentage of learning outcomes of 11.96% and the percentageof students who complete 57, 14%. Then the average value silus class II increased to 87.85 with the percentageincrease learning outcomes by 30.84% and the percentage of students who completed was 85.71%, after theimplementation by implementing role playing model. These results indicate that the implementation byimplementing role playing model can improve student learning outcomes Elementary School science class VI SDNegeri 9 Duri Barat.
Evaluation of the Physical Development of Adolescents Living in the Republic of Karakalpakstan
Authors: Kudainazarova Z. , Seitimbetova B. , Kodirov Kh.
Published: April 2019

The paper reviews the results of an assessment of the analysis of anthropometric indicators of the physical development of adolescents aged 15–18 years in the Republic of Karakalpakstan. It is established that the clinical examination of students should necessarily include anthropometric survey methods, focused on the assessment of physical development. To this end, taking into account anthropometric indicators, it is necessary to develop standards for physical development, taking into account regional, ethnic and social characteristics of the population.
Study of the Connection Between Autoinflammatory Disease and the Development of a Mast Cell Tumor on the Example of Shar-Pei
Authors: Rystsova E. , Kondrashkina K.
Published: April 2019

This article is devoted to the study of the connection between autoinflammatory disease and the development of a mast cell tumor on the example of Shar-Pei. The HAS2 gene, which is responsible for the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, in Shar-Pei has an increased expression due to which hyaluronic acid accumulates in the dermis, forming breed-defining skin phenotype — thik skin folds. It became known that hyaluronic acid is involved in immune reactions. Under normal conditions, it is in the high molecular weight fraction, but in abundant it begins to fragment into low molecular weight polymers interacting with the membranes of mast cells, as an antigen, due to chemical similarity with the microbial surface. Thus, mast cells and other immunocompetent cells initiate the inflammatory process. Therefore, the breed predisposition of Shar-Pei to the accumulation of hyaluronic acid can cause self-inflammatory diseases in dogs. The link with mastocytoma can be traced because hyaluronic acid also affects the proliferation and terminal differentiation of mast cells, interacting with the CD44 co-receptor of c-kit receptor. The KIT gene is marked by researchers as the gene responsible for the active proliferation of mast cells. There were found mutations in the same gene in dogs with a mastocytoma. Perhaps the appearance of hyaluronic acid in chronic inflammation, as well as in the development of mastocytoma indicate the presence of a connection between both pathological processes.
İflasta Vergi Alacakları ve Sırası
Authors: ŞENYÜZ Doğan
Published: April 2019

Devletin alacaklı olduğu ilişkilerde özel alacaklılar kadar dinamik olmadığı ve alacağının peşine düşmede bazı yetersizlikler içinde bulunduğu tecrübelerle sabittir. Bu tespite bağlı olarak devlet alacağının korunması fikri kapsamında farklı kanunlarda amme alacaklarına bazı imtiyazlar tanınmıştır. Bu kapsamda, iflas yoluyla takipte amme alacaklarının karşılanma sırası hacizdeki sıradan farklı usul ve esaslara bağlanmıştır. Amme alacaklarının en önemlisi vergiler olup mükellef borcunu rızaen ödemediğinde ammenin alacağını elde etmek için başvuracağı cebri icra yollarından biri de iflastır. İflas kararı verilmesiyle müflisin haczedilebilen tüm mal ve hakları ile borçları iflas masasını oluşturur ve tasfiye süreci başlar. Hangi alacağın hangi sırada karşılanacağı tasfiye süreci kapsamında belirlenir. Bu sırayı gösteren belgeye sıra cetveli denir. Sıra cetvelinde her türlü alacak yer almakla beraber amme ve özel alacaklar arasında sıralama farkları öngörülmüştür. Paranın dağıtımı kesinleşen sıra cetveline uygun hazırlanan pay cetveline göre yapılır. Vergilere göre farklılaşan bir sıralama olduğu, bu sıralamada ilk olarak rehinli alacaklara yer verilmiştir. İkinci olarak özel olarak belirtilen bazı vergilerin (gümrük vergileri ile malın aynından kaynaklanan vergiler ve benzerleri) bulunur. Diğer vergilerin ise adi alacakların dördüncü sırasında öncelikleri vardır.  
Constitutional Complaint in Ukraine and International Experience
Authors: YEHOROVA Valentyna
Published: April 2019

The article analyzes some aspects of the experience of

individual countries about the institution of the constitutional complaint.

Separate points of view on the implementation of the constitutional complaint

to Ukraine and International Experience, for and against, are considered. The

expressed own views on the introduction of the institution of the

constitutional complaint into the Ukrainian legislation. A constitutional

complaint shall be considered not only as another mechanism for judicial protection,

but also as a means to influence the quality of the national legislation.

However, there is no such legal institution in Ukraine and International

Experience.
Erasure as Planned Obsolescence
Authors: Schröter Jens
Published: April 2019

One of the central media functions is storage. But it is often forgotten that stored information can also be erased - at least in some media, because there is a difference between media that can erase information and others that can't. Sometimes it is even a necessity to get rid of potentially problematic information and some new media formats like SnapChat are centered around the funtions of erasure. The paper discusses this historically.
Effect of Mentoring on Military Personnel Retention
Authors: Aman Shewakena
Published: April 2019

Retention of human capital is an asset to any organization and as a result, mentoring and retention has become an issue of importance for any organization. This study, therefore, analyzed the effect of mentoring on military personnel retention in Ethiopian military academies. Methodologically, the research approach is quantitative and the design was descriptive and explanatory type of research, where the population of the study is the protégés of military academies in Ethiopia. The sampling method is probability and specifically stratified random sampling. The data were collected using structured questionnaires. The researcher used both descriptive and inferential statistics. The result of person correlation revealed that mentoring has positive and significant relationship with personnel retention in military academies. Furthermore, the results of regression analysis indicated that mentoring has positive and significant effect on personnel retention in the studied academies. It was found that psychological mentoring has higher effect on military personnel retention than career mentoring and role modeling. Findings of this study shows that providing mentoring for military personnel is positively and significantly related to higher psychological readiness, career development, and personnel retention. Military academies are better to emphasize on psychological mentoring to enhance the retention of military personnel.
Statistical Analysis of Obstetric Complications A Hospital Based Data in WadMedani Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Gezira State, Sudan (2017)
Authors: A Mohamed Fatima , Alnory Ahmed
Published: April 2019

Obstetric complications are an issue of concern in all countries and especially, in developing countries. The prevalence of obstetrics complications measures the development path and the implementation of motherhood initiative 1999 for reducing obstetric complications and maternal mortality. The study aimed at estimating the level and socio-economic causes of obstetric complication in Gezira state. The data source of this research is based on a longitudinal sample of 400 women who were admitted to Wad Medani Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital. The research used descriptive statistics, cross tabs with chi- square and logistic regression analyses utilizing SPSS program. The main study results include that: the rate of obstetric complications is high in Gezira state amounting to 60 % approximately. The results also indicated that the modal complications are pregnancy induced hypertension, septicemia and placenta previa while the modal problems are malaria and anemia. The study recommended reducing intervention delays by consultants upon admission, abolish unnecessary cesarean sections and women must go to antenatal care clinics according to WHO protocol.
Pulmonary Arterial Stenting Complication: A Case Report about the Retrieval of a Stent Lost in a Child with Bilateral Glenn Shunt
Authors: Giordano M , Gaio G , Bigazzi MC , Russo MG
Published: April 2019

Percutaneous stenting of the pulmonary artery is a diffuse procedure, above all in patients with congenital heart disease. The effectiveness of the procedure is associated with potential and feared complications. This case describes the embolization of a premounted stent into the left lower lobe pulmonary artery in a 3-years old patient with univentricular heart and left-side superior vena cava undergone to Norwood procedure modified according to Sano (stage I) and then bilateral cavo-pulmonary anastomosis according to Glenn (stage II). The retrieval procedures were complicated by the severe hypoplasia of the left pulmonary artery and by the complex anatomy of the patient. This case shows how to pull-back an embolized stent in a child with a complex congenital heart disease despite the limitations related to the low weight and the complex vascular anatomy.
Ventricular Tachycardia in the Guillain-Barre Syndrome. Cardiac Complications in Guillain-Barre Syndrome, Review of the Literature
Authors: Davarashvili Ilia , Balkin Jonathan
Published: April 2019

Objectives: The Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a cause of acute flaccid paralysis mainly in young and middle-aged adults and commonly requires admission to an intensive care unit. Manifestations of the GBS vary from monoparesis to life-threatening progressive ascending paralysis with the involvement of the respiratory muscles. The latter often accompanied with cardiac involvement. There is a wide range of clinical cardiac manifestations: from signs of autonomic dysfunction (labile blood pressure, oscillations in heart rate) to involvement of the myocardium and potentially fatal arrhythmias. Materials and methods: We present a case of a patient with GBS complicated with ventricular tachycardia. The accompanying review of the literature underlines the wide spectrum of cardiac complications in this entity. Results and Conclusions: A thorough review of the literature shows rare reports of a wide spectrum of cardiac abnormalities, with no reported spontaneous VT. We suggest that careful cardiac assessment of patients with GBS be performed including continuous ECG monitoring as well as measurement of cardiac enzymes and 2-D Echocardiography.
Uncontrolled Hypertension among Treated Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Khaled Al-Aghbari , Mohammed Bamashmoos , Faiza Askar
Published: April 2019

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension among Yemeni hypertensive patients on treatment. Methods: Cross sectional study was conducted among hypertensive adult patients presented to a private cardiac center in Sana’a from January to December 2016. All adult patients diagnosed to have hypertension for at least 3 months prior to the interview were included in this study. Each patient was clinically examined by training doctor on arrival to clinic and then every 3 months. The examination included; personal history, blood pressure, and through cardiovascular examination and recorded. Demographic data, special habits, body mass index, medication used and other laboratory data were registered. Collected data was coded and enter into Pc for statistical analysis. Results: The total number of patient with hypertension (HTN) presented into Cardiac Centre were 277. Of them 187 (67.5%) Were males and 90 (32.5%) were females, their age was ranged from 27 to 100 year with mean age of 57.5 ± 12.3. 61 patients (22.0%) had stage I hypertension (HTN) and stage II (HTN) was found in 182 Patients (65.7%). Of the total cases target BP controlled was achieved in 34 patients (12.3%). Several risk factors have been significantly associated with uncontrolled hypertension and these were; ischemic heart disease, elder age, left ventricular hypertrophy and renal impairment. There were no significant association between uncontrolled hypertension and other variables (Gender, Qat chewing, BMI, duration of hypertension and associated disease as diabetes mellitus, Cerebrovascular accident, medications & blood cholesterol level). Conclusion: Prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension was high in individuals with concomitant hypertension and comorbidity factors. IHD, renal impairment aging and left ventricular hypertrophy are the most important determinants of uncontrolled hypertension.
Prosthetic rehabilatiton of aggressive periodontitis patients: a case series
Authors: Sahni Shraddha , Rathi Akhil G , Radke Usha M
Published: April 2019

Aggressive periodontitis (AgP) comprises a group of rare, often severe, rapidly progressive forms of periodontitis which is characterized by an early age of clinical manifestations. It usually affects people under 30 years of age. Microbiota associated are Aggregatibacter, Actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonasgingivalis. The presence of highly pathogenic bacteria, severe periodontal bone destruction and the refractory nature of this disease tends to deter the clinician from placing implants in these patients. This article represents case series of patients with generalized aggressive periodontitits (GAP) rehabilitated prosthetically with successful 2 years follow-up.

Key Words : Aggressive periodontitis, preservation, cast partial denture
Comparison of Energy Used and Effects on Bulk Density and Yield by Tillage Systems in a Semiarid Condition of Mexico
Authors: López-Vázquez Alfredo , Cadena-Zapata Martin , Campos-Magaña Santos , Zermeño-Gonzalez Alejandro , Mendez-Dorado Mario
Published: April 2019

Energy used for tillage is an input with a high impact on the cost of crop production; it is desirable to till the soil using minimum energy. The objective of this study was to compare the specific energy expenditure, effect on soil bulk density, and forage yield of maize, by three tillage systems: Disk plow/Disk Harrow/planter (DDP), Chisel plow/Disk harrow/planter (CHDP) and No-Tillage (NT). Energy was measured for tillage operations in the summer season of 2013, 2016, and 2017. Bulk density in 2013 and 2016. Yield in 2013 and 2014. The variables of drawbar force (kN), working speed (m s−1), width (m), depth (m), fuel consumption (L ha−1), bulk density (g cm−3), and dry matter yield (Mg ha−1) were measured. Results showed that there were significant differences in the amount of energy used per ha; DDP used an average of 379.75 MJ, CHDP 135.01 MJ, and NT 26.43 MJ. The average energy applied to the soil mass for each system was 400 J kg−1 for DDP, 255.13 J kg−1 for CHDP, and for NT was 237.8 J kg−1. The overall energy efficiency was; 18.23% for DDP, 6.88% for CHDP, and 4.77% for N. The bulk density decreased significantly after three years for NT. There were no significant differences in dry matter yield. In the semiarid condition of Mexico, CHDP and NT are options for saving from 64% to 93% of energy, compared with DDP.
Activity and Anti-Aflatoxigenic Effect of Indigenously Characterized Probiotic Lactobacilli against Aspergillus flavus—A Common Poultry Feed Contaminant
Authors: Azeem Nimra , Nawaz Muhammad , Anjum Aftab Ahmad , Saeed Shagufta , Sana Saba , Mustafa Amina , Yousuf Muhammad Rizwan
Published: April 2019

Aflatoxin contamination in human food and animal feed is a threat to public safety. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) can be especially damaging to poultry production and consequently economic development of Pakistan. The present study assessed the in vitro binding of AFB1 by indigenously characterized probiotic lactobacilli. Six isolates (Lactobacillus gallinarum PDP 10, Lactobacillus reuetri FYP 38, Lactobacillus fermentum PDP 24, Lactobacillus gallinarum PL 53, Lactobacillus paracasei PL 120, and Lactobacillus gallinarum PL 149) were tested for activity against toxigenic Aspergillus flavus W-7.1 (AFB1 producer) by well diffusion assay. Only three isolates (PL 53, PL 120, and PL 149) had activity against A. flavus W-7.1. The ameliorative effect of these probiotic isolates on AFB1 production was determined by co-culturing fungus with lactobacilli for 12 days, followed by aflatoxin quantification by high-performance liquid chromatography. In vitro AFB1 binding capacities of lactobacilli were determined by their incubation with a standard amount of AFB1 in phosphate buffer saline at 37 °C for 2 h. AFB1 binding capacities of isolates ranged from 28–65%. Four isolates (PDP 10, PDP 24, PL 120, and PL 149) also ceased aflatoxin production completely, whereas PL 53 showed 55% reduction in AFB1 production as compared to control. The present study demonstrated Lactobacillus gallinarum PL 149 to be an effective candidate AFB1 binding agent against Aspergillus flavus. These findings further support the binding ability of lactic acid bacteria for dietary contaminants.
Inhibition of Advanced Glycation End-Product Formation by High Antioxidant-Leveled Spices Commonly Used in European Cuisine
Authors: Starowicz Małgorzata , Zieliński Henryk
Published: April 2019

Spices and herbs, as good sources of polyphenols, could be strong inhibitors of advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation. The aim of this research was to measure the ability of various spices to inhibit AGEs and to study the correlation of AGE inhibition with total phenolic (TP) content and antioxidant capacity. Fourteen spices commonly used in European cuisine were extracted with a 50% ethanol solution, and their water and total phenolic contents and antioxidant capacities were examined. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated using three methods: (1) Measurement of the radical scavenging ability of 2,2’-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and (2) 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH●); and (3) photochemiluminescence (PCL) assay. Antiglycation properties were studied in vivo using two model systems: Bovine serum albumin-glucose (BSA-glucose) and bovine serum albumin-methylglyoxal (BSA-MGO). The most potent glycation inhibitors, according to the BSA-MGO assay, were star anise (88%), cinnamon (85%), allspice (81%), and cloves (79%), whereas in the BSA-glucose measurement, oregano was noted to be a very effective inhibitor of the glycation process. The ability to inhibit glycation was highly correlated with TP values in the BSA-MGO and BSA-glucose assay (r = 0.84 and 0.76, respectively). Our research showed the high antiglycation ability of cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, and we suggest, for the first time, that anise could also be considered a good glycation inhibitor.
Effects of Nanoparticles on Algae: Adsorption, Distribution, Ecotoxicity and Fate
Authors: Wang Feng , Guan Wen , Xu Ling , Ding Zhongyang , Ma Haile , Ma Anzhou , Terry Norman
Published: April 2019

With the rapid development of nanotechnology and widespread use of nanoproducts, the ecotoxicity of nanoparticles (NPs) and their potential hazards to the environment have aroused great concern. Nanoparticles have increasingly been released into aquatic environments through various means, accumulating in aquatic organisms through food chains and leading to toxic effects on aquatic organisms. Nanoparticles are mainly classified into nano-metal, nano-oxide, carbon nanomaterials and quantum dots according to their components. Different NPs may have different levels of toxicity and effects on various aquatic organisms. In this paper, algae are used as model organisms to review the adsorption and distribution of NPs to algal cells, as well as the ecotoxicity of NPs on algae and fate in a water environment, systematically. Meanwhile, the toxic effects of NPs on algae are discussed with emphasis on three aspect effects on the cell membrane, cell metabolism and the photosynthesis system. Furthermore, suggestions and prospects are provided for future studies in this area.
Learning, Generalization, and Obstacle Avoidance with Dynamic Movement Primitives and Dynamic Potential Fields
Authors: Chi Mingshan , Yao Yufeng , Liu Yaxin , Zhong Ming
Published: April 2019

In order to offer simple and convenient assistance for the elderly and disabled to take care of themselves, we propose a general learning and generalization approach for a service robot to accomplish specified tasks autonomously in an unstructured home environment. This approach firstly learns the required tasks by learning from demonstration (LfD) and represents the learned tasks with dynamic motion primitives (DMPs), so as to easily generalize them to a new environment only with little modification. Furthermore, we integrate dynamic potential field (DPF) with the above DMPs model to realize the autonomous obstacle avoidance function of a service robot. This approach is validated on the wheelchair mounted robotic arm (WMRA) by performing serial experiments of placing a cup on the table with an obstacle or without obstacle on its motion path.
Can Mathematical Models of Body Heat Exchanges Accurately Predict Thermal Stress in Premature Neonates?
Authors: Delanaud Stéphane , Chahin Yassin Fatima , Durand Estelle , Tourneux Pierre , Libert Jean-Pierre
Published: April 2019

Mathematical models of body heat exchanges can be used to define the thermal limits needed to protect premature neonates nursed in incubators against thermal stress–stress that can have potentially devastating impairments on neurological development and body growth. Predictive models can help caregivers to keep a neonate’s body temperature within the normal range and to solve problems that arise during intensive care, such as the risk of hyperthermia during phototherapy, the risk of hypothermia during transport from one clinical centre to another, and the use of a plastic bag to reduce skin water loss and body dehydration. Here, we review the strengths and limitations of models used to predict the risk of thermal stress, with a focus on uncertainties in the algorithms governing heat transfers between the neonate’s skin and the complicated thermal environment encountered in incubators. We describe attempts to reduce the large number of empirical assumptions and uncertainties in this field, and suggest ways of more accurately modelling optimal thermal conditions for neonates nursed in closed incubators.
Analysis of a Supercapacitor/Battery Hybrid Power System for a Bulk Carrier
Authors: Kim Kyunghwa , An Juwan , Park Kido , Roh Gilltae , Chun Kangwoo
Published: April 2019

Concerns about harmful exhaust emissions from ships have been an issue. Specifically, the emissions at ports are the most serious. This paper introduces a hybrid power system that combines conventional diesel generators with two different energy storage systems (ESSs) (lithium-ion batteries (LIB) and supercapacitors (SC)) focused on port operations of ships. To verify the proposed system, a bulk carrier with four deck cranes is selected as a target ship, and each size (capacity) of LIB and SC is determined based on assumed power demands. The determined sizes are proven to be sufficient for a target ship through simulation results. Lastly, the proposed system is compared to a conventional one in terms of the environmental and economic aspects. The results show that the proposed system can reduce emissions (CO2, SOX, and NOx) substantially and has a short payback period, particularly for ships that have a long cargo handling time or visit many ports with a short-term sailing time. Therefore, the proposed system could be an eco-friendly and economical solution for bulk carriers for emission problems at ports.
One-Year Characterization and Reactivity of Isoprene and Its Impact on Surface Ozone Formation at A Suburban Site in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Zou Yu , Deng Xue Jiao , Deng Tao , Yin Chang Qin , Li Fei
Published: April 2019

Isoprene has a potentially large effect on ozone (O3) formation in the subtropical, highly polluted city of Guangzhou. Online measurements of isoprene in Guangzhou city are scarce; thus, isoprene levels were monitored for one year at the Guangzhou Panyu Atmospheric Composition Station (GPACS), a suburban site in Guangzhou, using an online gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC–FID) system to investigate the characterization and reactivity of isoprene and its effect on the O3 peak profile in different seasons. The results showed that the daily average mixing ratios of isoprene at GPACS were 0.40, 2.20, 1.40, and 0.13 mixing ratio by volume (ppbv) in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively. These values were considerably higher than the mixing ratios of isoprene in the numerous other subtropical and temperate cities around the world. Furthermore, isoprene ranked first with regard to O3 formation potential (OFP) and propylene-equivalent mixing ratio among 56 measured non–methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs). The ratios of isoprene to cis-2-butene, an exhaust tracer, were determined to estimate the fractions of biogenic and anthropogenic emissions. The results revealed a much greater contribution from biogenic than anthropogenic factors during the daytime in all four seasons. In addition, night-time isoprene emissions were mostly associated with vehicles in winter, and the residual isoprene that remained after photochemical loss during the daytime also persisted into the night. The high levels of isoprene in summer and autumn may cause the strong and broad peaks of the O3 profile because of its association with the most favorable meteorological conditions (e.g., high temperature and intense solar radiation) and the highest OH mixing ratio, which could affect human health by exposing people to a high O3 mixing ratio for prolonged periods. The lower mixing ratios of isoprene resulted in a weak and sharp peak in the O3 profile in both spring and winter. The high level of isoprene in the subtropical zone could accentuate its large impact on atmospheric oxidant capacity and air quality in Guangzhou city.
Multi-Physics Ensemble versus Atmosphere–Ocean Coupled Model Simulations for a Tropical-Like Cyclone in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Ricchi Antonio , Miglietta Mario Marcello , Bonaldo Davide , Cioni Guido , Rizza Umberto , Carniel Sandro
Published: April 2019

Between 19 and 22 January 2014, a baroclinic wave moving eastward from the Atlantic Ocean generated a cut-off low over the Strait of Gibraltar and was responsible for the subsequent intensification of an extra-tropical cyclone. This system exhibited tropical-like features in the following stages of its life cycle and remained active for approximately 80 h, moving along the Mediterranean Sea from west to east, eventually reaching the Adriatic Sea. Two different modeling approaches, which are comparable in terms of computational cost, are analyzed here to represent the cyclone evolution. First, a multi-physics ensemble using different microphysics and turbulence parameterization schemes available in the WRF (weather research and forecasting) model is employed. Second, the COAWST (coupled ocean–atmosphere wave sediment transport modeling system) suite, including WRF as an atmospheric model, ROMS (regional ocean modeling system) as an ocean model, and SWAN (simulating waves in nearshore) as a wave model, is used. The advantage of using a coupled modeling system is evaluated taking into account air–sea interaction processes at growing levels of complexity. First, a high-resolution sea surface temperature (SST) field, updated every 6 h, is used to force a WRF model stand-alone atmospheric simulation. Later, a two-way atmosphere–ocean coupled configuration is employed using COAWST, where SST is updated using consistent sea surface fluxes in the atmospheric and ocean models. Results show that a 1D ocean model is able to reproduce the evolution of the cyclone rather well, given a high-resolution initial SST field produced by ROMS after a long spin-up time. Additionally, coupled simulations reproduce more accurate (less intense) sea surface heat fluxes and a cyclone track and intensity, compared with a multi-physics ensemble of standalone atmospheric simulations.
Extracellular Vesicles in the Oviduct: Progress, Challenges and Implications for the Reproductive Success
Authors: Almiñana Carmen , Bauersachs Stefan
Published: April 2019

The oviduct is the anatomical part of the female reproductive tract where the early reproductive events take place, from gamete transport, fertilization and early embryo development to the delivery of a competent embryo to the uterus, which can implant and develop to term. The success of all these events rely upon a two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the gametes/embryo(s). Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been identified as major components of oviductal secretions and pointed to as mediators of the gamete/embryo-maternal interactions. EVs, comprising exosomes and microvesicles, have emerged as important agents of cell-to-cell communication by the transfer of biomolecules (i.e., mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins) that can modulate the activities of recipient cells. Here, we provide the current knowledge of EVs in the oviductal environment, from isolation to characterization, and a description of the EVs molecular content and associated functional aspects in different species. The potential role of oviductal EVs (oEVs) as modulators of gamete/embryo-oviduct interactions and their implications in the success of early reproductive events is addressed. Lastly, we discuss current challenges and future directions towards the potential application of oEVs as therapeutic vectors to improve pregnancy disorders, infertility problems and increase the success of assisted reproductive technologies.
Olfactory Event-Related Potentials and Exhaled Organic Volatile Compounds: The Slow Link Between Olfactory Perception and Breath Metabolic Response. A Pilot Study on Phenylethyl Alcohol and Vaseline Oil
Authors: Invitto Sara , Mazzatenta Andrea
Published: April 2019

Olfactory processing starts with the breath and elicits neuronal, metabolic and cortical responses. This process can be investigated centrally via the Olfactory Event-Related Potentials (OERPs) and peripherally via exhaled Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Despite this, the relationship between OERPs (i.e., N1 and Late Positive Component LPC) and exhaled VOCs has not been investigated enough. The aim of this research is to study OERPs and VOCs connection to two different stimuli: phenylethyl alcohol (PEA) and Vaseline Oil (VO). Fifteen healthy subjects performed a perceptual olfactory task with PEA as a smell target stimulus and VO as a neutral stimulus. The results suggest that OERPs and VOCs distributions follow the same amplitude trend and that PEA is highly arousing in both psychophysiological measures. PEA shows ampler and faster N1, a component related to the sensorial aspect of the stimulus. The N1 topographic localization is different between PEA and VO: PEA stimulus evokes greater N1 in the left centroparietal site. LPC, a component elicited by the perceptual characteristic of the stimulus, shows faster latency in the Frontal lobe and decreased amplitude in the Central and Parietal lobe elicited by the PEA smell. Moreover, the delayed time between the onset of N1-LPC and the onset of VOCs seems to be about 3 s. This delay could be identified as the internal metabolic time in which the odorous stimulus, once perceived at the cortical level, is metabolized and subsequently exhaled. Furthermore, the VO stimulus does not allocate the attentive, perceptive and metabolic resource as with PEA.
Cognitive Function in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Manzo Ciro , Martinez-Suarez Eva , Kechida Melek , Isetta Marco , Serra-Mestres Jordi
Published: April 2019

Background: Cognitive disorders are reported to be common in patients with primary Sjogren’s syndrome (pSS). In some cases, they are the first clinical manifestation, preceding the diagnosis of pSS by two years on average. Aim: A systematic review was conducted to explore cognitive impairment in pSS, with reference to diagnostic methods and their relationship with laboratory data and clinical manifestations. Materials and Methods: According to the PRISMA 2009 checklist, we carried out a comprehensive literature search in the three main bibliographic databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO (NICE HDAS interface). The following main search terms were used: primary Sjogren syndrome, neurological manifestations, fatigue, cognitive functions, psychiatric manifestations, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and neurocognitive disorder. The search was made on 14 September, 2018. References from all selected studies were also examined. Inclusion criteria were: all studies and case-reports published in any language from 2002 that assessed the association of pSS (according to classification criteria proposed by the 2002 American/European collaborative group (AECG)) with all types of cognitive impairment (including dementia). Exclusion criteria were: reviews, abstracts, secondary Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), and all articles in which other classification criteria were used. Results: The initial search yielded 352 articles, of which 253 were excluded based on the title and abstract review. A total of 54 articles underwent a full-length review, and 32 articles were excluded. Data were extracted from 18 studies and three case-reports involving a total of 6196 participants. In most cases, cognitive dysfunction was a brain fog or a mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Occasionally, an autoimmune dementia was present. The relationship between pSS and degenerative dementias, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), was a controversial issue, even if some investigators hypothesized that pSS could be a risk factor. Several unmet needs were highlighted. First, some of the included studies had not reported the severity of pSS; hence, few correlations between disease severity and cognitive function were possible. Secondly, the evaluation of the pathogenetic role of comorbid diseases was often absent. The lack of information on the type of dementia represented a third critical point in the majority of the included studies. Conclusions: This systematic review confirmed that adequate studies on cognitive function in pSS are scarce, mostly performed on small-sized samples, and often conflicting. The routine assessment of cognitive function in patients with pSS seems advisable and it will help to elucidate some of the unmet needs highlighted by this review in future appropriately designed studies.