bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI NIAT MAHASISWA MELAKUKAN TINDAKAN WHISTLEBLOWING
Authors: Handika Mellisa Fitri Dwi , Sudaryanti Dwiyani
Published: May 2019

Those are a lot of fraud that make the state agencies urge the accountans to report the fraud they knew. Whistleblowing is an effective way to detect any fraud. This study aims to examine the factors influencing whistleblowing intention, with Theory of Planned Behavior as a theoritical basis. Research data are collected by distributing questionnaires to 171 respondents. Hypothesis testing was analyzed by using multiple linear regressions.
The results showed that attitude has no significant influence to whistleblowing intention, while subjective norm and perceived behavioral control has positively significant influence to whisleblowing intention. Simultantly attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control has significantly influence to whistleblowing intention. The results also showed the urgency of ethical aspect in curriculum and learning syste and the importance of ethical attitude and positive educative environment.
PENGARUH PROFITABILITAS, LIKUIDITAS, SOLVABILITAS, DAN UKURAN PERUSAHAAN TERHADAP AUDIT REPORT LAG PADA PERUSAHAAN YANG TERDAFTAR DI BURSA EFEK INDONESIA
Authors: Dura Justita
Published: May 2019

This study aims to determine the effect of profitability, solvency and size of the company to the audit report lag in manufacturing companies listed in Indonesia Stock Exchange 2010-2013. The samples used as many as 105 companies with purposive sampling technique. The analysis technique used is multiple linear regression analysis. The results showed that (1) the profitability  affect audit report lag indicates that companies that get a big profit tends to make the process shorter than audit firms experienced a small profit. (2) the liquidity affect audit report lag, (3) the solvency effect indicates that the high amount of debt of the company will lead the audit process is relatively long, and (4) the size of the company does affect indicating that a large or small amount of assets owned by the company does affect the length or in short the process of preparing the financial statements of the company.
ANALISIS EFEKTIVITAS EXPO DAN OPEN HOUSE SERTA MINAT CALON SISWA INDONESIA DAN ASING PADA ENGLISH FIRST (EF) MALANG
Authors: Jusuf Michelle Nikita
Published: May 2019

At this time, it is known that in the era of globalization people are required to have such a useful provision like the foreign language skills such as English. Many foreign language education institutions also have been established in Indonesia as well as in Malang for example English First (EF), The British Institute (TBI), Institute for Language and Education Professionals LIA (LBPP LIA). Therefore, many language institutions that hold promotions in attracting students and one of them is English First (EF).  There are two research problem: First, how is the differences in the effectiveness of the expo and open house to increase the number of students at the EF. Second, how is the differences in the effectiveness of expo and open house on the interests of prospective Indonesian and foreign students at EF. As this study used quantitative methods.
In this research expo looks much more effective at getting students while held this event compared to the open house. In the expo can also be obtained advantages that could be closer to prospective customers and get a better response compared with the approach using the email or telephone. Effectiveness of the expo and open house at the interests of prospective Indonesian students and foreign students at the EF did not have a significant difference. In this case means that the two candidates both Indonesian and foreign students also have a passion for learning in EF.
ANALISIS FAKTOR - FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI KEMISKINAN DI INDONESIA SELAMA LIMA TAHUN TERAKHIR
Authors: Zuhdiyaty Noor , Kaluge David
Published: May 2019

Pembangunan suatu negara adalah hal yang paling utama dilakukan untuk mensejahterakan masyarakat. Salah satu hal yang merupakan tolak ukur pembangunan adlah dengan berkurangnya angka dan pengangguran. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kemiskinan di Indonesia selama kurun waktu lima tahunan 2011-2015. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan uji regresi. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada 33 provinsi yang ada di Indonesia. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa adanya pengaruh antara IPM dengan kemiskinan, sedangkan untuk pertumbuhan ekonomi dan TPT tidak memiliki pengaruh terhadap kemiskinan.
Pengaruh Kompensasi dan Disiplin Kerja Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan Bagian Produksi PG. Meritjan Kediri.
Authors: Isvandiari Any , Fuadah Lutfiatul
Published: May 2019

The research aims to know the effect of compensation variable and work discipline on the performance of the production employees PG. Meritjan Kediri, either partially or simultaneously. The data collected by distributing questionnaires, research conducted on 77 respondents production, samples from the production employees PG. Meritjan Kediri. By using a likert scale,the answer of respondentsbe treated used double regression analysis, t test, F test and R2 test.
The results of this study found that there was a significant effect (significant) partially between the variables of compensation and work discipline variables on the dependent variable, and no influence employee performance variables simultaneously study consisted of compensation and work discipline on employee performance. From the results found in this study that the leaders should pay attention to PG. Meritjan Kediri compensation, work discipline and supervise all activities of employees to improve employee performance Part Production PG. Meritjan Kediri
KEPUASAN KERJA, KOMITMEN ORGANISASI, ORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIOUR (OCB) DAN PENGARUHNYA TERHADAP KUALITAS PELAYANAN PUBLIK
Authors: Meilina Restin , Widodo Mochamad Wahyu
Published: May 2019

Service employees as the vanguard that plays an important role in determining the quality or not of public services. Efforts to provide quality public services can not ignore the factors of employee job satisfaction, organizational commitment employees, and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) employees. This study aims to determine (1) the effect of job satisfaction on OCB, (2) influence of organizational commitment to OCB, (3) influence of job satisfaction on public service quality, (4) influence of organizational commitment to public service quality, (5) influence of OCB On the quality of public services, and (6) the indirect influence of job satisfaction and organizational commitment to the quality of public services through OCB. The study was conducted in 3 (three) sub-district offices in Kediri. Samples taken as many as 90 respondents with purposive sampling technique. Data collection through observation, interviews, and questionnaire dissemination. The data obtained were analyzed by path analysis. The result of the research shows that (1) job satisfaction has significant effect on OCB, (2) organizational commitment has significant effect to OCB, (3) job satisfaction has significant effect on public service quality, (4) organizational commitment has significant effect on public service quality, OCB has a significant effect on the quality of public services, (6) there is indirect influence of job satisfaction on the quality of public service through OCB, while for organizational commitment there is no indirect influence to the quality of public service through OCB.
PENGAMBILAN KEPUTUSAN USAHA MANDIRI MAHASISWA DITINJAU DARI FAKTOR INTERNAL DAN EKSTERNAL
Authors: Irawati Rina
Published: May 2019

This study aims to determine the decision of students to have independent business STIE Malangkucecwara Malang in terms of internal and external factors. The type of research is descriptive. The sample of this research is 54 students from class of 2013-2015. The results of the study prove that the majority of sex students have independent business in STIE Malangkucecwara Malang is a woman. Internal factors students have independent business based on risk-taking, internal locus of control, self-generated motivation, the need for freedom, and creative ideas. External factors that encourage students to have independent business are: the influence of role models, family and friends support, opportunities, life satisfaction, and education. The results of this study are supported by previous researches: Indarti, Nurul and Rokhima Rostiani (2008), Yulia, Wasa and Dwi Endah Kusrini (2010), Zulkifli (2011), Ifham, Ahmad and Avin Helmi (2011), and Chasbiansari, Dyas (2007).
PENGARUH AGENCY COST TERHADAP KINERJA KEUANGAN PERUSAHAAN KELUARGA MENGGUNAKAN TOBIN’S Q & ALTMAN Z-SCORE
Authors: Muchlas Zainul
Published: May 2019

This research aims to test the effect of agency cost toward financial performance in family business measured by Tobin’s Q and Altman Z-Score with proxied by insider ownership, dispersion ownership, institutional ownership. This research was conducted at family business firms listed in Indonesian Stock Exchange from 2011-2015. In this research, multiple linear regression analysis were used. The result show the agency cost (insider ownership, dispersion ownership, institutional ownership) simultaneously have a significant effect toward Tobin’s Q, insider ownership and institutional ownership are not significant toward Tobin’s Q, dispersion ownership has a significant effect toward Tobin’s Q, agency cost (insider ownership, dispersion ownership, institutional ownership) simultaneously and partial are not significant toward Altman Z-Score.
ACCOUNTING PRACTICE MODEL ON THE HOME INDUSTRY UD. AGUNG
Authors: Afianto Benny , Rosnawintang Rosnawintang , Anto La Ode
Published: May 2019

In the final stage, an accounting practice will produce information that is beneficial to the company, researchers have revealed the findings of his research regarding the existence of accounting practices in the home industry of UD. Agung. Based on an explanation of the philosophical assumptions that underlie the research methodology, philosophically this research is placed in a position as a research with an interpretive paradigm. This study is not intended to provide generalizations on accounting models in other home industries. The results of this study state that for accounting records UD. Agung is carried out very simply, only records incoming/outgoing money, incoming/outgoing goods and paying the craftsmen's wages. From the simple recording, found the values of sincerity, trust and honesty, and justice are the values that underlie accounting practices in the home industry of UD. Agung. Besides that, the existence of intensity of accounting practices is still very low and its application is still very simple. The meaning of accounting for human resources can be seen when the informant determines production costs and selling prices. For salary management, it can be recognized as an investment in human resource accounting in the compensation model group. Accounting practices at UD. Agung is not only interpreted as an attempt to calculate the numbers then presented in the form of notes. However, accounting in this study is also interpreted as an attempt to calculate the numbers carried out in the minds and minds of business people without holding records.
Numerical Investigation of Natural Convection Flow in a Hexagonal Enclosure Having Vertical Fin
Authors: Asad M. Fayz -Al- , Sarker M. M. A. , Munshi M. J. H.
Published: May 2019

Numerical study of natural convection flow in a hexagonal enclosure with a single vertical fin attached to its heated bottom wall has been carried out. Finite element method based Galerkin weighted residual technique is used to solve the governing equation. The horizontal walls of the enclosure are kept at constant high temperature while the inclined walls are kept at constant cold temperature. A vertical heated fin is attached to the hot bottom wall with a length  at a position  from the left surface having thickness . The Prandlt number for the flow inside the enclosure is 0.71. The results of the problem are presented in graphical and tabular forms and discussed. The fin efficiency and temperature distribution were examined. The numerical results indicate the strong influence of the mentioned parameters on the flow structure and heat transfer as well as temperature. A set of graphical results are presented in terms of streamlines, isotherms contour, temperature profiles, velocity profiles, local Nusselt number and average Nusselt number. The obtained results indicated that the heat transfer rate increases with the increase of Rayleigh number in a hexagonal enclosure. The results are validated comparing with the published works.
Volome Charge Density in Mixed Number Lorentz Transformation
Authors: Bhuiyan S. A.
Published: May 2019

We know charge density is changed when it observes from a moving frame of reference due to the length contraction. In this paper we have studied the volume charge density in special and mixed number Lorentz transformation. We also investigate the changes of the volume charge density of moving system in terms of rest system in mixed number Lorentz Transformations at different angles and velocities.
Clinical Outcome of Patients Over 90 Years of Age Treated for Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Dobran Mauro , Marini Alessandra , Nasi Davide , Liverotti Valentina , Benigni Roberta , Costanza Martina Della , Mancini Fabrizio , Scerrati Massimo
Published: May 2019

Objective : Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most common pathology in daily neurosurgical practice and incidence increases with age. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic factors and surgical outcome of CSDH in patients aging over 90 years compared with a control group of patients aging under 90 years.Methods : This study reviewed 25 patients with CSDH aged over 90 years of age treated in our department. This group was compared with a younger group of 25 patients aged below their eighties. At admission past medical history was recorded concerning comorbidities (hypertension, dementia, ictus cerebri, diabetes, and heart failure or attack). History of alcohol abuse, anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy, head trauma and seizures were analyzed. Standard neurological examination and Markwalder score at admission, 48 hours after surgery and 1–6 months follow-up, radiologic data including location and CSDH maximum thickness were also evaluated.Results : Their mean age was 92.8 years and the median was 92.4 years (range, 90–100 years). In older group, the Markwalder evaluation at one month documented the complete recovery of 24 patients out of 25 without statistical difference with the younger group. This data was confirmed at 6-month follow-up. One patient died from cardiovascular failure 20 days after surgery. The presence of comorbidities, risk factors (antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulant therapy, history of alcohol abuse, and head trauma), preoperative symptoms, mono or bilateral CSDH, maximum thickness of hematoma, surgical time and recurrence were similar and statistically not significant in both groups.Conclusion : In this study, we demonstrate that surgery for very old patients above 90 years of age affected by CSDH is safe and allows complete recovery. Comparing two groups of patients above and under 90 years old we found that complication rate and recovery were similar in both groups.
Effect of pre-germinative treatments on Nothofagus glauca seed germination and seedling growth
Authors: Cabello Ángel , Espinoza Nicolás , Espinoza Sergio , Cabrera Antonio , Santelices Rómulo
Published: May 2019

Background: Nothofagus glauca (Phil.) Krasser (Nothofagaceae, “Hualo”) is an endemic tree of the Mediterranean zone of Chile. The natural forests in this area have been severely fragmented as a result of human causes such as replacement by agricultural crops and fast-growing tree species. From 1975, these forests have declined from 900,000 ha to 145,000 ha, so it is categorised on the IUCN Red List as ‘vulnerable’. In restoring this ecosystem, efforts should focus, in part, on the propagation of quality stock. However, information on propagation systems is still insufficient.
Methods: We aimed to analyse the effect of different pre-germinative treatments and sowing times on seed germination, and seedling growth and quality. The pre-germinative treatments were: (i) cold stratification; (ii) soaking in gibberellic acid (GA3) and thiourea solution; and (iii) nursery cultivation, while the sowing times were July, August and September.
Results: A high germination capacity was achieved by: soaking the seeds in GA3 solution irrespective of concentration; stratifying, irrespective of period; or soaking in 7.5 mg L-1 thiourea solution, values significantly varied from that of the control treatments. The sowing time was not relevant in terms of the percentage of germination or seedling development. Stratification at 5°C for 60 days produced the best quality indices for N. glauca seedlings but no significant differences were found in any of the morphological attributes tested as a result of the pre-germinative treatments.
Conclusions: The pre-germinative treatments significantly improved the germination and seedlings growth of N. glauca. Cold stratification at 5°C for 60 days is recommended as it produced suitable seedlings for field establishment. Gibberellic acid and thiourea did not produce important effects on seedling growth. Our results suggest the presence of endogenous physiological dormancy of the N. glauca seeds. The results of this study provide important information on propagation and nursery techniques of N. glauca, which can be used in restoration programmes.
ACTIVITY OF UPPER BODY MUSCLES IN DOUBLE POLING AND SKIERG WORKOUT
Authors: Horyna Roman , Bačáková Radka , Chrástková Martina , Sedlák Jan , Čmejla Roman , Kračmar Bronislav
Published: May 2019

Background. The aim of the study was to compare the involvement of upper body muscles during double poling
and SkiErg Concept 2 workout and verify its specificity for cross-country skiing.
Methods. Ten elite Czech cross-country skiers performed double poling and SkiErg workout. Electromyography
of selected upper body muscles and cycle characteristics were analysed. To monitor the electrical activity of muscles,
we used the device ME6000. Data were analysed using Mega Win and MATLAB software version R2012b.
Results. Relative poling phase during double poling was 30.30 ± 2.02% and during SkiErg workout 54 ±
3.36%. Pre-activation of trunk flexors was significantly higher during double poling due to high and forward body
position before pole plant. Pre-activation of trunk flexors was not significantly different as pre-activation of shoulder
and elbow extensors during SkiErg workout. Deactivation of these muscles came significantly later during SkiErg
workout.
Conclusion. SkiErg cannot be considered a specific training method for cross-country skiing. It can be
recommended to obtain specific power, but long-term application may cause disruption of double poling technique,
especially timing of trunk flexors, shoulder and elbow extensors.
THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN PSYCHOLOGICAL RESILIENCE
Authors: Ozkara Abdullah Bora , Kalkavan Arslan , Alemdag Serdar , Alemdag Ceyhun
Published: May 2019

Background. Existing research indicates that both teachers and prospective teachers who are physically active
in comparison with inactive generally easier cope with physical and psychosocial problems. This topic, particularly
psychosocial development of individuals and their participation in sports, has attracted the attention of researchers in
recent years. There are a lot of studies on this issue, but less is known about the relationship between physical activity
participation and psychological resilience. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the association
between experience of physical activity and psychological resilience of prospective teachers according to some
variables.
Methods. A sample of 331 last year student teachers (134 females and 197 males) who study at the Faculty of
Education at Karadeniz Technical University in Northeast Turkey was evaluated. We used Childhood and Adolescence
Physical Activity Levels Questionnaire to determine the physical activity experience. Besides, we applied the Brief
Resilience scale to analyse the psychological resilience. The data was analysed by using the Pearson’s Correlation
Coefficient, Simple Linear Regression and Independent Sample t-Test.
Results. The research findings show that there was positive and significant relationship between psychological
resilience and physical activity experience of prospective teachers. Regression analysis revealed that participation
of physical activity was found to be significant predictors of resilience. In addition, both physical activity levels and
resilience of prospective teachers with respect to gender, department and licensed sports participation status were
found significant.
Conclusions. Physical activity has numerous beneficial psychological effects. Furthermore, current research
results suggest that experiences of physical activity play a role in psychological resilience of prospective teachers.
It was also concluded that prospective teachers should be encouraged to participate in physical activity. The
development of this aspect of the policy can contribute to psychological resilience of prospective teachers.
Risk and Refuge: Contemplating Precarity in Irish Fiction
Authors: Sen Malcolm
Published: May 2019

Financial speculation and capitalist accumulation leave spatial and temporal traces. When the waves of the global financial collapse reached Ireland and culminated in the extreme measure of the comprehensive state guarantee, the receding excesses of the Celtic Tiger revealed a landscape that was gentrified and alienating. The spectrality of the ghost estates of Ireland became a synecdochal signifier of Ireland's ignominious fall from the podium of neoliberal grace and the focus of both popular lament and critical intervention. This essay provides a deferred assessment of the uncanniness of dwelling in post-Celtic Tiger Ireland by concentrating on the socioecological fallout of ruins and the longterm casualties of land speculation: that is, transformations of landscape into real estate, and of place into property. Reading Ireland's ghost estates as ‘imperial formations’ that ‘register the ongoing quality of processes of decimation, displacement, and reclamation’ – to use Ann Laura Stoler's term – the essay brings to the fore questions of dwelling and homeliness that suggest more protracted imperial processes which ‘saturate the subsoil of people's lives and persist, sometimes subjacently, over a longer durée’. To demonstrate these arguments the essay will analyse works by Kevin Barry, Sara Baume, and Claire Keegan.
Pregnancy and Litter Size, But Not Lamb Sex, Affect Feed Intake and Wool Production by Merino-Type Ewes
Authors: Ochoa Cordero Manuel , Meza Herrera César A. , Vázquez García Juan M. , Stewart Caroline A. , Rosales Nieto César A. , Ochoa Alfaro Ana E. , Purvis Ian W. , Cuevas Reyes Venancio , Lee Rangel Héctor A. , Martin Graeme B.
Published: May 2019

Two experiments (Australia and Mexico) tested whether feed intake (FI) and wool production (WP) are affected by pregnancy (PRG), litter size (LZ), or lamb sex (LS) in Merino-type ewes. In Experiment-1, ewes were either not pregnant (NPR; n = 6), or carrying 1 (PR1; n = 7) or 3 (PR3; n = 11) fetuses, were studied in individual pens. NPR ewes had lower (p < 0.02) FI throughout PRG and lactation (LAC), except around lambing (p < 0.001). Following lambing, FI increased in PRG ewes (p < 0.001) to double the values in NPR ewes. PRG reduced WP (p < 0.001); in PR3, WP was lower than for both PR1 and NPR (p < 0.001). WP decreased during LAC and was lower in ewes rearing lambs than in NPR ewes (p < 0.001). Experiment-2 used 48 pregnant ewes (28 bearing singles and 20 bearing twins). Dam and lamb live weights (LW) and body condition (BC) were recorded from birth to weaning at 60 d, and dam fleece weight (DFW) was measured at weaning (12 months growth). WP was higher in ewes bearing and rearing single lambs than in ewes bearing twins (p < 0.001). DFW was positively (p < 0.01) related to LZ, dam LW, and BC, but not to changes in dam LW during LAC, or to lamb weight at birth or weaning, or LW gain, or LS. In conclusion, FI was affected during PRG and by LZ during LAC, whereas WP was influenced by LZ, but not LS, only during pregnancy.
Paraoxonases Activities and Polymorphisms in Elderly and Old-Age Diseases: An Overview
Authors: Levy Débora , Reichert Cadiele Oliana , Bydlowski Sérgio Paulo
Published: May 2019

Aging is defined as the accumulation of progressive organ dysfunction. There is much evidence linking the involvement of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of aging. With increasing age, susceptibility to the development of diseases related to lipid peroxidation and tissue injury increases, due to chronic inflammatory processes, and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals. The paraoxonase (PON) gene family is composed of three members (PON1, PON2, PON3) that share considerable structural homology and are located adjacently on chromosome 7 in humans. The most studied member product is PON1, a protein associated with high-density lipoprotein with paraoxonase/esterase activity. Nevertheless, all the three proteins prevent oxidative stress. The major aim of this review is to highlight the importance of the role of PON enzymes in the aging process, and in the development of the main diseases present in the elderly: cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer.
Numerical Modeling Approach on Mining-Induced Strata Structural Behavior by Considering the Fracture-Weakening Effect on Rock Mass
Authors: Shu Jiaming , Jiang Lishuai , Kong Peng , Wang Pu , Zhang Peipeng
Published: May 2019

By employing the longwall mining method, a series of intensive strata structure responses and activities will be induced including stress redistribution, fracture extension and strata movement. Due to the geological stratification feature of coal mine strata, tensile failure and tension-induced fracturing play dominant roles in the strata of the fractured zone. These responses induced in the strata require the consideration of the weakening effect on the rock mass behavior due to failure and fracturing in tension. In this study, a numerical modeling approach on mining-induced strata structural behaviors was proposed by considering the mechanical behaviors of the caved zone consolidation and tension-induced weakening in the fractured zone. Based on a numerical model built according to a study site, a parametric study with respect to different fracturing intensity parameters was performed to investigate the fracturing weakening effect on the mining-induced stress redistribution and strata movement. The numerical results showed that the tensile fracture intensity had a notable effect on the mining-induced stress distribution in two aspects: (1) Increase in peak and area of the front abutment stress; (2) variation in the patterns of stress recovery in the goaf. The stress data obtained from numerical simulation represent and help to back-analyze the structural behaviors (failure, movement) of the overlying strata. The high stress on the coal seam indicated that the strata lay on and transferred loads to the seam, while the low stress indicated the detachment between the seam and the suspending strata. With the increase in fracture intensity, the roof strata were more prone to breaking and caving, and the suspending length of the roof beam decreased, which made the strata sufficiently break, cave and transfer the overburden load to loose rock in the goaf; caving along the strike direction of the panel became the dominant overlying strata structure movement, while the dominant movement caved along the dip direction in the case of strong and intact overlying strata with few tensile fractures. Thus, the tensile fracturing intensity should not be ignored in studies related to the behaviors of the overlying strata. Validated by analytical studies, this study presents a novel numerical modeling approach for this topic and can be utilized for multiple studies based on proper roof fracturing estimation or back analysis.
Satellite-Based Estimation of Daily Ground-Level PM2.5 Concentrations over Urban Agglomeration of Chengdu Plain
Authors: Han Weihong , Tong Ling
Published: May 2019

Monitoring particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters of less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) is of great importance to assess its adverse effects on human health, especially densely populated regions. In this paper, an improved linear mixed effect model (LMEM) was developed. The model introduced meteorological variable, column water vapor (CWV), which has as the same resolution as satellite-derived aerosol optical thickness (AOT), to enhance PM2.5 estimation accuracy by considering spatiotemporal consistency of CWV and AOT. The model was implemented to urban agglomeration of Chengdu Plain during 2015. The results show that model accuracy has been improved significantly compared to linear regression model (R2 = 0.49), with R2 of 0.81 and root mean squared prediction error (RMSPE) of 15.47 μg/m3, mean prediction error (MPE) of 11.09 μg/m3, and effectively revealed the characteristics of spatiotemporal variations PM2.5 level across the study area: The PM2.5 level is higher in the central and southern areas with dense population, while it is lower in the northwest and southwest mountain areas; and the PM2.5 level is higher during autumn and winter, while it is lower during spring and summer. The product data in this paper are valuable for local government pollution monitoring, public health research, and urban air quality control.
Salmonella-Based Targeted Cancer Therapy: Updates on A Promising and Innovative Tumor Immunotherapeutic Strategy
Authors: Pangilinan Christian Ronquillo , Lee Che-Hsin
Published: May 2019

Presently, cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world, primarily due to tumor heterogeneity associated with high-grade malignancy. Tumor heterogeneity poses a tremendous challenge, especially with the emergence of resistance not only to chemo- and radiation- therapies, but also to immunotherapy using monoclonal antibodies. The use of Salmonella, as a highly selective and penetrative antitumor agent, has shown convincing results, thus meriting further investigation. In this review, the mechanisms used by Salmonella in combating cancer are carefully explained. In essence, Salmonella overcomes the suppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment and coaxes the activation of tumor-specific immune cells to induce cell death by apoptosis and autophagy. Furthermore, Salmonella treatment suppresses tumor aggressive behavior via inhibition of angiogenesis and delay of metastatic activity. Thus, harnessing the natural potential of Salmonella in eliminating tumors will provide an avenue for the development of a promising micro-based therapeutic agent that could be further enhanced to address a wide range of tumor types.
Cognitive Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis: An Objective Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment by Transcranial Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Linnhoff Stefanie , Fiene Marina , Heinze Hans-Jochen , Zaehle Tino
Published: May 2019

Cognitive fatigue is one of the most frequent symptoms in multiple sclerosis (MS), associated with significant impairment in daily functioning and quality of life. Despite its clinical significance, progress in understanding and treating fatigue is still limited. This limitation is already caused by an inconsistent and heterogeneous terminology and assessment of fatigue. In this review, we integrate previous literature on fatigue and propose a unified schema aiming to clarify the fatigue taxonomy. With special focus on cognitive fatigue, we survey the significance of objective behavioral and electrophysiological fatigue parameters and discuss the controversial literature on the relationship between subjective and objective fatigue assessment. As MS-related cognitive fatigue drastically affects quality of life, the development of efficient therapeutic approaches for overcoming cognitive fatigue is of high clinical relevance. In this regard, the reliable and valid assessment of the individual fatigue level by objective parameters is essential for systematic treatment evaluation and optimization. Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) may offer a unique opportunity to manipulate maladaptive neural activity underlying MS fatigue. Therefore, we discuss evidence for the therapeutic potential of tES on cognitive fatigue in people with MS.
Vertically Aligned Few-Layered Graphene-Based Non-Cryogenic Bolometer
Authors: Yadav Anil K. , Khan Saba Mehsar , Kundu Anirban , Rani Renu , Soin Navneet , McLaughlin James , Misra Devi Shanker , Hazra Kiran Shankar
Published: May 2019

In this study, we report the photoresponse of vertically aligned few-layered graphene (VAG) upon infra-red (IR) irradiation at room temperature. Four probe measurements showed the current–voltage (I–V) characteristic of electrical switching during pulsed IR irradiation. The photoresponse reported here for VAG was significantly higher than that reported for carbon nanotube (CNT) samples. Our investigation shows that such a photoresponse arose solely from the bolometric effect, where the conductivity changed with temperature. The resistance magnitude of the VAGs increased ~two fold for each 6 °C increase in temperature. Also, the Thermal Coefficient of Resistance (TCR) in this region was ~11%/K, which is the highest TCR value reported for any carbon nanomaterial.
Aerobic Methanol Oxidation over Unsupported Nanoporous Gold: The Influence of an Added Base
Authors: Lackmann Anastasia , Mahr Christoph , Rosenauer Andreas , Bäumer Marcus , Wittstock Arne
Published: May 2019

We studied the aerobic oxidation of methanol over nanoporous gold catalysts under neutral and alkaline conditions. We find that under neutral conditions the catalyst has an activation period of about 10 h while upon addition of a base the catalyst becomes active right away. After this activation period, however, the activity of the catalyst is in both cases similar. Moreover, the selectivity was not affected by the base. We tested different bases and found the largest effect when adding OH−. The cation, however, does not play a role. We conclude that it is OH−, which is impacting the reaction and propose a mechanism for the suppression of the activation period. While the catalytic cycle, i.e., the reaction of methanol on the catalyst surface seems unaffected, the transient adsorption of OH− onto the surface can facilitate the activation of molecular oxygen by donating electrons to the surface. Due to the intermediate formation of oxidic Ag species, an effective segregation of surface-near Ag can be induced, which increases the abundance of Ag being essential for the activation of oxygen at the surface. In this way, a more efficient pathway for the generation of active oxygen is opened, allowing the reaction to set in faster.
Fundamentals of Sulfate Species in Methane Combustion Catalyst Operation and Regeneration—A Simulated Exhaust Gas Study
Authors: Kinnunen Niko M. , Kallinen Kauko , Maunula Teuvo , Keenan Matthew , Suvanto Mika
Published: May 2019

Emission regulations and legislation inside the European Union (EU) have a target to reduce tailpipe emissions in the transportation sector. Exhaust gas aftertreatment systems play a key role in low emission vehicles, particularly when natural gas or bio-methane is used as the fuel. The main question for methane operating vehicles is the durability of the palladium-rich aftertreatment system. To improve the durability of the catalysts, a regeneration method involving an efficient removal of sulfur species needs to be developed and implemented on the vehicle. This paper tackles the topic and its issues from a fundamental point of view. This study showed that Al2(SO4)3 over Al2O3 support material inhibits re-oxidation of Pd to PdO, and thus hinders the formation of the low-temperature active phase, PdOx. The presence of Al2(SO4)3 increases light-off temperature, which may be due to a blocking of active sites. Overall, this study showed that research should also focus on support material development, not only active phase inspection. An active catalyst can always be developed, but the catalyst should have the ability to be regenerated.
GPS Precipitable Water Vapor Estimations over Costa Rica: A Comparison against Atmospheric Sounding and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS)
Authors: Campos-Arias Polleth , Esquivel-Hernández Germain , Valverde-Calderón José Francisco , Rodríguez-Rosales Stephanie , Moya-Zamora Jorge , Sánchez-Murillo Ricardo , Boll Jan
Published: May 2019

The quantification of water vapor in tropical regions like Central America is necessary to estimate the influence of climate change on its distribution and the formation of precipitation. This work reports daily estimations of precipitable water vapor (PWV) using Global Positioning System (GPS) delay data over the Pacific region of Costa Rica during 2017. The GPS PWV measurements were compared against atmospheric sounding and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) data. When GPS PWV was calculated, relatively small biases between the mean atmospheric temperatures (Tm) from atmospheric sounding and the Bevis equation were found. The seasonal PWV fluctuations were controlled by two of the main circulation processes in Central America: the northeast trade winds and the latitudinal migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). No significant statistical differences were found for MODIS Terra during the dry season with respect GPS-based calculations (p > 0.05). A multiple linear regression model constructed based on surface meteorological variables can predict the GPS-based measurements with an average relative bias of −0.02 ± 0.19 mm/day (R2 = 0.597). These first results are promising for incorporating GPS-based meteorological applications in Central America where the prevailing climatic conditions offer a unique scenario to study the influence of maritime moisture inputs on the seasonal water vapor distribution.
Grafting of Gallic Acid onto a Bioactive Ti6Al4V Alloy: A Physico-Chemical Characterization
Authors: Cazzola Martina , Ferraris Sara , Prenesti Enrico , Casalegno Valentina , Spriano Silvia
Published: May 2019

Despite increasing interest in the use of natural biomolecules for different applications, few attempts of coupling them to inorganic biomaterials are reported in literature. Functionalization of metal implants with natural biomolecules could allow a local action, overcoming the issue of low bioavailability through systemic administration. In the present work, gallic acid was grafted to a pre-treated Ti6Al4V in order to improve its biological response in bone contact applications. The grafting procedure was optimized by choosing the concentration of gallic acid (1 mg/mL) and the solvent of the solution, which was used as a source for functionalization, in order to maximize the amount of the grafted molecule on the titanium substrate. The functionalized surfaces were characterized. The results showed that functionalization with Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) as solvent medium was the most effective in terms of the amount and activity of the grafted biomolecule. A key role of calcium ions in the grafting mechanism is suggested, involving the formation of coordination compounds formed by way of gallic acid carboxylate and Ti–O− as oxygenated donor groups. Bioactive behavior and surface charge of the pre-treated Ti6Al4V surface were conserved after functionalization. The functionalized surface exposed a greater amount of OH groups and showed higher wettability.
Analysis of Heavy Metal Content in Conventional and Herbal Toothpastes Available at Maltese Pharmacies
Authors: Vella Andrew , Attard Everaldo
Published: May 2019

Although toothpastes are considered as topical cosmetics that are not normally ingested, it is evident that they may contribute to the introduction of heavy metals and xenobiotics through buccal and gastrointestinal absorption. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential presence of metals and polyphenols in conventional, children’s and herbal toothpastes. Metal analysis was conducted by using the Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometer and the total polyphenolic content was determined by using the Folin–Ciocalteu test. Results showed that cadmium and mercury were absent in all toothpastes while zinc and tin exhibited high values. This was because the latter two metals are incorporated as part of the ingredients. In the case of polyphenols, the highest value was obtained in one of the samples from the children’s toothpaste category while the lowest value was obtained from the conventional toothpaste category. Lead and nickel were two other metals that fell outside the limits for EU and US standards. Most of these limits are usually applicable to topical cosmetic products or food products. However, these may not adequately cover oral hygiene products, such as toothpastes.
Controlling and Optimizing Entropy Production in Transient Heat Transfer in Graded Materials
Authors: Pérez-Barrera James , Figueroa Aldo , Vázquez Federico
Published: May 2019

This paper presents a numerical analysis of the transient heat transfer problem arising when a functionally graded material is subjected to a fixed temperature difference. Varying the gradation of the system, the thermal performance of the material is assessed both in time-dependent and steady-state conditions by means of temperature profiles and entropy production. One of the main contributions of this paper is the analysis of the system in the transient, from which it is found that the entropy production has a non-monotonic behaviour since maximum and minimum values of this physical quantity could be identified by varying the grading profile of the material. The latter allows to propose an optimization criterion for functionally graded materials which consists of the identification of spatial regions where temperature gradients are large and find thermal conductivity profiles that attenuate those gradients, thus reducing the thermal stresses present inside the material.
Virtual Prototyping of Axial Piston Machines: Numerical Method and Experimental Validation
Authors: Chacon Rene , Ivantysynova Monika
Published: May 2019

This article presents a novel methodology to design swash plate type axial piston machines based on computationally based approach. The methodology focuses on the design of the main lubricating interfaces present in a swash plate type unit: the cylinder block/valve plate, the piston/cylinder, and the slipper/swash plate interface. These interfaces determine the behavior of the machine in term of energy efficiency and durability. The proposed method couples for the first time the numerical models developed at the authors’ research center for each separated tribological interface in a single optimization framework. The paper details the optimization procedure, the geometry, and material considered for each part. A physical prototype was also built and tested from the optimal results found from the numerical model. Tests were performed at the authors’ lab, confirming the validity of the proposed method.
Effect of Airtightness on Thermal Loads in Legacy Low-Income Housing
Authors: Domínguez-Amarillo Samuel , Fernández-Agüera Jesica , Campano Miguel Ángel , Acosta Ignacio
Published: May 2019

Spain’s high winter weather-associated death count, the second largest in Europe, can be attributed primarily to the low construction standards of its social housing, particularly the stock built prior to the entry into effect of the earliest statutory provisions on envelope quality. Hence, improving building envelopes to both reduce energy consumption and raise occupant comfort levels is important. Air leakage is one of the factors with the greatest impact on indoor comfort and domestic energy consumption. This study explores the sensitivity of energy consumption to that parameter in a series of types of social housing built between 1950 and 1979 in five Mediterranean climate zones. Demand in a total of 53 housing units located in 21 developments was simulated to that end. The findings show that air permeability has a significant effect on wintertime demand in the sample studied. Although the impact is greater in the more severe climates where it is estimated to be over 10 kWh/m2, it may also affect energy consumption in mild climates.
Smart Proxy Modeling of SACROC CO2-EOR
Authors: Vida Gholami , Shahab Mohaghegh D. , Mohammad Maysami
Published: May 2019

Large CO2-enhanced oil recovery (EOR) projects usually contain an abundance of geological and good performance data. While this volume of data leads to robust models, it often results in difficult to manage, slow-running numerical flow models. To dramatically reduce the numerical run-times associated with the traditional simulation techniques, this work investigated the feasibility of using artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to develop a smart proxy model of the Scurry Area Canyon Reef Operators Committee (SACROC) oilfield, located in the Permian Basin, TX, USA. Smart proxy models can be used to facilitate injection-production optimization for CO2-EOR projects. The use of a coupled grid-based, and well-based surrogate reservoir model (SRM) (also known as smart proxy modeling) was investigated as the base of the optimization. A fit-for-purpose coupled SRM, which executes in seconds, was built based on high-resolution numerical reservoir simulation models of the northern platform of the SACROC oilfield. This study is unique as it is the first application of coupled SRM at a large oilfield. The developed SRM was able to identify the dynamic reservoir properties (pressure, saturations, and component mole-fraction) at every grid-block, along with the production characteristics (pressure and rate) at each well. Recent attempts to use machine learning and pattern recognition to build proxy models have been simplistic, with limited predictive capabilities. The geological model used in this study is comprised of more than nine million grid blocks. The high correlation between the actual component and SRM, which can be visualized by mapping the properties, along with the fast footprint of the developed model demonstrate the successful application of this methodology.
Doctors Are Inconsistent in Estimating Survival after CPR and Are Not Using Such Predictions Consistently in Determining DNACPR Decisions
Authors: Kidd Andrew C , Honney Katie , Bowker Lesley K , Clark Allan B , Myint Phyo K , Holland Richard
Published: May 2019

Background: It is unclear whether doctors base their resuscitation decisions solely on their perceived outcome. Through the use of theoretical scenarios, we aimed to examine the ‘do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation’ (DNACPR) decision-making. Methods: A questionnaire survey was sent to consultants and specialty trainees across two Norfolk (UK) hospitals during December 2013. The survey included demographic questions and six clinical scenarios with varying prognosis. Participants were asked if they would resuscitate the patient or not. Identical scenarios were then shown in a different order and doctors were asked to quantify patients’ estimated chance of survival. Results: A total of 137 individuals (mean age 41 years (SD 7.9%)) responded. The response rate was 69%. Approximately 60% were consultants. We found considerable variation in clinician estimates of median chance of survival. In three out of six of our scenarios, the survival estimated varied from <1% to 95%. There was a statistically significant difference identified in the estimated median survival between those clinicians who would or would not resuscitate in four of the six scenarios presented. Conclusion: This study has highlighted the wide variation between clinicians in their estimates of likely survival and little concordance between clinicians over their resuscitation decisions. The diversity in clinician decision-making should be explored further.