bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of the thermophysical characteristics of building materials by the adaptive method using microwave heating
Authors: Mordasov S. A. , Negulyaeva A. P. , Chernyshov V. N.
Published: February 2020

An increase in the cost of energy resources and urgent character of the problem of resource conservation entailes the necessity of developing means of operational control of the thermophysical characteristics of building materials, including those synthesized using nanoparticles. The goal of the study is developing of the new method for determining the thermophysical characteristics (thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity) of building materials. The method for determining the thermophysical characteristics proposed in this article consists in measuring the temperature in two points on the sample surface subjected to thermal pulsed impact of focused microwave radiation of the given power. The number of pulses and their frequency are adaptively set by the microprocessor information-measuring system, with which the method is implemented when the temperature is reached at the setpoint control point. To implement the method, a microprocessor information-measuring system is presented. The accuracy of the proposed method is improved by controlling high temperature values, taking information in a pulse-frequency form and heating a large bulk of the material under study. The samples of clay, concrete, silicate and red brick are studied. The data obtained were compared with the results of traceable measurements of the thermophysical characteristics of the samples, using IT-λ-400 devices under laboratory conditions. The experiments showed that the developed method has several advantages compared to other traditional methods and accuracy sufficient for thermophysical measurements. The method can be used in various fields of industry and thermal engineering for construction.
Does ‘heads-up’ cardiopulmonary resuscitation improve outcomes for patients in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest? A systematic review
Authors: Elphinstone Andrew , Laws Samantha
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Survival rates for patients in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest have remained around 10% in the United Kingdom for the past seven years. If outcomes are to be improved, research into new methods of advanced life support is required. One such method may be ‘heads-up’
cardiopulmonary resuscitation.Methods: A systematic review of literature exploring heads-up cardiopulmonary resuscitation was conducted in an attempt to identify its effects on survival to discharge and neurological outcome.Results: A comprehensive search of CINAHL, MEDLINE
and Google Scholar was undertaken. Six papers were classed as sufficiently relevant for inclusion. Included studies were generally of low quality and none studied the effect of heads-up cardiopulmonary resuscitation on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients. Animal studies identified a significant
reduction in intracranial pressure and increase in cerebral and coronary perfusion pressure for use of augmented heads-up cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the porcine model of cardiac arrest.Conclusion: Further research is required to analyse the effects and potential benefits of
augmented heads-up cardiopulmonary resuscitation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
Authors: Nrartha I Made Ari , Sultan Sultan , Azmi Muhammad Ulul
Published: February 2020

The generator is the main part of the generation of electrical energy to supply power to the system. The generator can be interrupted due to reverse power, ie the generator absorbs power from the system. Reverse power failure can damage the generator, so the generator must be isolated from the system. This study designed a protection and monitoring system for reverse power fault in a 1 kVA three-phase generator using Arduino Mega 2560 as the main component. Current sensor is ACS712-20A and voltage sensor is ZMPT101B. Touchscreen of TFT as the interface used for setting the reverse power and disconnection time. Sensor test results, current sensor measuring error 1.47%, 4.10%, and 3.59%, voltage sensors 0.20%, 1.22%, and 0.77% for phase R, S, and T. Reverse power interruption simulations are performed by quickly reducing the ability prime movers so the generator power becomes negative. The power from the system flows to the generator, so a reverse power protection system at the generator works. All generator operations are monitored in real time on the TFT touchscreen.
Citrula Gel dari Limbah Kulit Buah Semangka (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum & Nakai) sebagai Antijerawat (Acne vulgaris)
Authors: Anggraeni Yola , Ambarwati Tika , Miranti Irmas , Genatrika Erza
Published: February 2020

Jerawat  didefinisikan  sebagai  peradangan  kronik  dari  folikel  polisebasea  yang disebabkan  oleh  beberapa  faktor  dengan  gambaran  klinis  yang  khas.  Salah  satu tanaman  yang  dapat  mengatasi  jerawat  yaitu semangka.  Kulit buah semangka (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum & Nakai) memiliki   senyawa antibakteri di antaranya  alkaloid,  fenol,  saponin,  dan  terpenoid.  Dalam penelitian ini ekstrak limbah  kulit  buah semangka diformulasikan   dalam   sediaan   gel.   Tahap   penelitian   yang menggunakan  rancangan  acak  lengkap ini meliputi  penyiapan  dan  pengumpulan simplisia   limbah   kulit   buah   semangka,   ekstraksi,   uji kandungan senyawa, formulasi gel, evaluasi sifat fisik sediaan gel, dan uji aktivitas antibakteri  terhadap  bakteri  Propionibacterium acnes  dan  Staphylococcus  aureus. Ekstraksi yang dilakukan adalah dengan menggunakan metode maserasi dengan penyari kloroform. Uji kandungan senyawa dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode penapisan fitokimia meliputi uji alkaloid, uji triterpenoid, uji fenol, dan uji saponin. Ekstrak kulit buah semangka dengan konsentrasi 5, 10, dan 15% kemudian diformulasikan dengan carbopol 940 dan dilanjutkan dengan evaluasi sifat fisik gel, di antaranya uji organoleptis, uji homogenitas, uji daya sebar, uji daya lekat, uji pH, dan uji viskositas. Uji aktivitas antibakteri dari formulasi ekstrak kulit buah semangka dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode difusi agar. Hasil formulasi terbaik pada formulasi gel menghasilkan gel yang homogen, lekat, menyebar, pH yang cocok dengan kulit, dan memiliki viskositas yang cukup baik. Hasil terbaik dari zona hambat uji antibakteri pada bakteri Propionibacterium acnes yaitu 5,23 mm dan pada bakteri Staphylococcus  aureus yaitu 5,80 mm.
IBM Bagi Siswa Kelas XI SMK Teknik Kenderaan Ringan Di SMK Negeri 1 Sei Rampah Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai
Authors: J Junaidi , Ritonga Din Aswan Amran
Published: February 2020

State Vocational School 1 Sei Rampah Serdang Bedagai Regency annually holds Competency Exams for Class XII Lightweight Vocational School, prior to conducting the National Examination. Every year almost 90% fail in the Competency Exams conducted by these students. Therefore we are from Faculty of Engineering and Computer teaching staff serve this Vocational School to hold Competency Test Training for Class XI Students, so as not to fail when they later in class XII, to carry out competency tests. As for the implementation of competency training are: Tune up competency test training, Electricity, Steering System, Over Hole Engine and chassis.
The Study of Biomarkers of Systemic Inflammation in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in the Relationship with the Severity of Shortness of Breath and Indicators of the Quality of Life of Patients
Authors: Бен Аммар Сауссен  , О. С. Коміссарова  , Н. В. Кіча  , Л. В. Черкашина
Published: February 2020

The objective: to study the levels of biomarkers of systemic inflammation (IL-8 and TNF-α) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in conjunction with the severity of shortness of breath and indicators of the impact of the disease on the quality of life of patients.Materials and methods. The study involved 120 patients with COPD: 115 men and 5 women (average age – 58.5 ± 4.1 years). All patients were active smokers. Patients were hospitalized for exacerbation of COPD in theKharkov city pulmonology center. Diagnosis and treatment of patients is performed in accordance with current clinical protocols.Results. The relationship between the severity of dyspnea and the level of biomarkers of systemic inflammation is characterized by the undulating character of the level of biomarkers of systemic inflammation, which indicates their different pathogenetic significance at the stages of evelopment of COPD.Conclusion. It was revealed that the nature and severity of changes in the levels of biomarkers of systemic inflammation is interrelated with the severity of shortness of breath and indicators of the influence of COPD on the quality of life of patients. An analysis of the relative indices of IL-8 and TNF-α in relation to the degree of dyspnea revealed that with a 2nd degree of severity of dyspnea, an increase (1.5 times) in the content of TNF-α is more informative, and with a 3rd degree, an increase ( 1.4 times) the level of blood levels of IL-8. It was revealed that the increasing influence of COPD on the quality of life of patients is characterized by a stable tendency to an increase in the blood content of IL-8 with a relatively stable level of TNF-α.
Kemampuan Siswa Kelas V SDN dalam Gugus 3 Kota Sabang Menulis Kembali Cerita Rakyat yang Dibaca
Authors: Sari Mustika , Harun Mohd. , Fitriani Siti Sarah
Published: February 2020

This study aims at determining the ability of the fifth-grade students of state primary schools (SDNs) located in cluster 3 of Sabang City, Aceh; to rewrite folktales that are read, including the aspects of character, background, plot, language, and punctuation. The approach employed by this study is a descriptive quantitative approach. The population as well as samples in this study were 20 fifth-grade students of SDN 26 and 20 students of SDN 28 Sabang. The research data was collected by test techniques, in the form of assignments. Data is analyzed by quantitative descriptive analysis techniques, namely making a list of raw scores, calculating the average score of students, and classifying the results of the samples studied. The results of the study showed that the ability of the fifth grade students of SDNs in cluster 3 of Sabang City to rewrite the read folklore had not reached the specified value criteria. There are only 35% of students who have sufficient ability or score above 75, and many 65% of students do not have adequate ability who score below 75. This study also shows that of 40 students, only 3 students get a very good predicate with a score of 90, 30 students obtained a good predicate with a score of 65-85, and 7 students obtained a sufficient predicate with a score of 60.
Symbol and Theme on Robert Frost’ Poem by Using Biographical Perspective
Authors: Adi Wiruma Titian
Published: February 2020

The objective of this research was to find out the symbol and theme that was used by Robert Frost in his literary works. It was also to elaborate on his biographical aspect of using symbols and themes in his poem. The method used to make this paper was a qualitative method. The writer also used two approaches to analyze this paper; first, the intrinsic approach consists of the symbol and theme and second, the extrinsic approach is a biographical perspective. The data were collected through library research. The results of this research indicated that the symbol on “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” was related to his nature or everyday life, while the theme on “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” was about the journey. The last, Robert Frost wrote his poem based on his experience of life when he was a teenager.
Selection and exploitation of prevalent, tandemly repeated genomic targets for improved real-time PCR-based detection of Wuchereria bancrofti and Plasmodium falciparum in mosquitoes
Authors: Zulch Michael F. , Pilotte Nils , Grant Jessica R. , Minetti Corrado , Reimer Lisa J. , Williams Steven A.
Published: February 2020

BackgroundOptimization of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostics requires the careful selection of molecular targets that are both highly repetitive and pathogen-specific. Advances in both next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and bioinformatics-based analysis tools are facilitating this selection process, informing target choices and reducing labor. Once developed, such assays provide disease control and elimination programs with an additional set of tools capable of evaluating and monitoring intervention successes. The importance of such tools is heightened as intervention efforts approach their endpoints, as accurate and complete information is an essential component of the informed decision-making process. As global efforts for the control and elimination of both lymphatic filariasis and malaria continue to make significant gains, the benefits of diagnostics with improved analytical and clinical/field-based sensitivities and specificities will become increasingly apparent.Methodology/Principal Findings Coupling Illumina-based NGS with informatics approaches, we have successfully identified the tandemly repeated elements in both the Wuchereria bancrofti and Plasmodium falciparum genomes of putatively greatest copy number. Utilizing these sequences as quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR)-based targets, we have developed assays capable of exploiting the most abundant tandem repeats for both organisms. For the detection of P. falciparum, analysis and development resulted in an assay with improved analytical and field-based sensitivity vs. an established ribosomal sequence-targeting assay. Surprisingly, analysis of the W. bancrofti genome predicted a ribosomal sequence to be the genome’s most abundant tandem repeat. While resulting cycle quantification values comparing a qPCR assay targeting this ribosomal sequence and a commonly targeted repetitive DNA sequence from the literature supported our finding that this ribosomal sequence was the most prevalent tandemly repeated target in the W. bancrofti genome, the resulting assay did not significantly improve detection sensitivity in conjunction with field sample testing. Conclusions/Significance Examination of pathogen genomes facilitates the development of PCR-based diagnostics targeting the most abundant and specific genomic elements. While in some instances currently available tools may deliver equal or superior performance, systematic analysis of potential targets provides confidence that the selected assays represent the most advantageous options available and that informed assay selection is occurring in the context of a particular study’s objectives.
Analisa Kerusakan Pipa Boiler Super Kritikal
Authors: Chudhoifah Mochamad Nanchy , Suastiyanti Dwita , Rupajati Pathya
Published: February 2020

AbstrakBoiler adalah alat yang digunakan untuk mengubah air menjadi uap dengan cara dipanaskan menggunakan batubara sebagai bahan bakar utama. Pada pembangkit listrik tenaga uap dengan menggunakan boiler super critical berkapasitas 660 MW, temperatur uap 566 °C dan tekanan 240 bar memiliki pipa di area final superheater dengan jenis material SA213 – T91. Pada saat unit start up, pipa di area final superheater mengalami kebocoran sehingga pipa menjadi pecah. Pecahnya pipa menyerupai mulut ikan, hasil analisa penyebabnya kemungkinan karena Short Term Temperature. Melalui uji metalografi ditemukan adanya rongga-rongga dan retak pada struktur mikro, kemungkinan karena pengelupasan lapisan magnetik didalam pipa. Untuk itu pengoperasian boiler harus memperhatikan kenaikan metal temperatur tidak boleh melebihi 2°C/menit agar tidak terjadi pengelupasan lapisan magnetik pada pipa Boiler.Kata kunci: SA213-T91, retak, superheater.Abstract Boilers are tools used to convert water into steam by heating using coal as the main fuel. In steam power plants using super critical boilers with a capacity of 660 MW, steam temperatures of 566 ° C and pressure of 240 bar have pipes in superheater final area with material type SA213 - T91. When start of the unit, the pipe in the final superheater area has leaked so that the pipe was rupture. The rupture of a pipe like a fish's mouth, the results of the analysis cause may be due to Short Term Temperature. Through metallographic tests it was found that there were cavities and creeps on the microstructure, possibly due to the peeling of the magnetic layer in the pipe. For this reason, the operation of the boiler must pay attention to the increase in metal temperature should not exceed 2 ° C / minute so there is no exfoliation of the magnetic layer in the Boiler pipe.Keywords: SA213-T91, creep, superheater.
HUBUNGAN ANTARA TINGKAT PENGETAHUAN REMAJA PUTRI KELAS 2 JURUSAN IPA TENTANG SADARI (PERIKSA PAYUDARA SENDIRI) DI SMA PGRI 2 BANJARMASIN
Authors: Asnuriyati Wahyu , Yulianti Nana Aprilia
Published: February 2020

Pengetahuan adalah sesuatu yang diketahui oleh seseorang melalui pengenalan sumber informasi, ide yang diperoleh sebelumnya baik secara formal maupun informal.SADARI adalah pemeriksaan yang dilakukan sebagai deteksi dini kanker payudara.SMA PGRI 2 Banjarmasin adalah sekolah swasta di Banjarmasin. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui tingkat pengetahuan remaja putri terhadap SADARI. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan deskriptif kuantitatif. Jumlah populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah 35 responden. Teknik pengambilan sampel dalam penelitian ini menggunakan teknik Nonprobability yaitu sampel jenuh atau total sampling. Jumlah sampel dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 35 responden. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dari uji hasil uji Spearman Rho di peroleh nilai p 0,008 < α 0,05. Berdasarkan hasil statistik Spearman Rho tersebut maka dapat di simpulkan bahwa ada hubungan antara tingkat pengetahuan terhadap pemeriksaan SADARI (Periksa Payudara Sendiri) di SMA PGRI 2 Banjarmasin. Untuk meningkatkan tingkat pengetahuan remaja putri terhadap pemeriksaan SADARI dengan lebih memperhatikan pendidikan kesehatan  bagi wanita khusus nya tentang kanker payudara.
Study of sensory information processing depending on visual stimulus complexity based on multichannel EEG signals
Authors: Maksimenko Vladimir , Kuc Alexander , Khramova Marina , Hramov Aleksandr
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Analysis of electrical activity in the cortical neural network during the processing of visual information is one ofthe most interesting issues in modern neuroscience. The particular attention of the researchers is attracted by the study of neuralactivity during complex visual stimuli processing. Purpose: Studying the process of sensory information processing in the corticalneural network based on recorded electrical activity signals (EEG). Results: We have studied neural activity during visual informationprocessing based on the stimulus-related change in the spectral EEG energy in the 15–30 Hz frequency band. Using the developedapproach, we analyzed the influence of the visual stimulus complexity on the features of spatio-temporal neural activity. It has beenfound that at low complexity the spectral amplitude of the EEG in the range of 15–30 Hz increases mainly in the parietal zone. Withincreasing complexity, the spectral amplitude of the EEG increases simultaneously in different parts of the cortex, mainly in the frontalregion. Practical relevance: The identified features of neural dynamics can be used in the development of passive brain-computerinterfaces to monitor a person’s cognitive state and evaluate the cognitive load in real time.
Desarrollo sostenible y competitividad: la visión de la Unión Europea
Authors: Calleja Crespo Daniel , Alquézar Sabadie Jesús
Published: February 2020

El crecimiento económico sostenible, aquel que conjuga competitividad y protección medioambiental, ya no es solo un ideal, sino una realidad. Esta evolución es la consecuencia, entre otras razones, de la creciente preocupación ciudadana por las crisis climática y medioambiental, así como de la evolución económica, tecnológica y social. Este artículo ofrece ejemplos de este cambio de paradigma, como los bienes y servicios ambientales, la desvinculación entre las emisiones de CO2 y el crecimiento económico, y la economía circular. Por otra parte, explica el papel de las políticas europeas para impulsarlo. Finalmente, se describen algunos problemas y desafíos a los que la Unión Europea deberá hacer frente para seguir impulsando la transición hacia una economía más sostenible, más competitiva y más justa.
إعادة هندسة العمليات الإدارية ( الهندرة ) واثرها في عملية اتخاذ القرارات الاستراتيجية دراسة ميدانية على كلية التربية / الجامعة المستنصرية / العراق
Authors: طالب مصطفى سعدي
Published: February 2020

هدف البحث إلى التعرف على كل من إعادة هندسة العمليات الإدارية ( الهندرة ) و عملية اتخاذ القرارات الاستراتيجية في مجتمع البحث وتحديد طبيعة العلاقة الارتباطية بين المتغيرين ومعرفة العلاقة بينهما لتحقيق هدف البحث .استخدم في هذا البحث المنهج الوصفي التحليلي . ويتكون مجتمع البحث من مجموعة من أساتذة وموظفي كلية التربية التابعة للجامعة المستنصرية في بغداد والبالغ عددهم (45) حيث قام الباحث بتوزيع الاستمارات على كل أفراد العينة وتم استبعاد (3) استمارات فقط لعدم صلاحيتها وبذلك بلغ عدد الاستمارات المعتمدة في التحليل (42) استمارة, وتم تصميم استبانة  البحث استنادا إلى الدراسات السابقة ذات العلاقة بموضوع البحث وتم استخدام المسح الشامل لعينة البحث وباستخدام الوسائل الإحصائية توصل البحث إلى وجود ارتباط وعلاقة معنوية بين أبعاد إعادة هندسة العمليات الإدارية وعملية اتخاذ القرارات الاستراتيجية .
Сохраняемость и регенерация пенообразователей для тушения пожаров
Authors: Navrotskiy Oleg , Ryabtsev Vitaliy , Ivanov Igor
Published: February 2020

Цель. Исследовать факторы, способствующие снижению сохраняемости растворов пенообразователей общего и целевого назначения для тушения пожаров при их длительном хранении в составе стационарных автоматических установок пожаротушения.

Методы. Проведение лабораторных исследований свойств пенообразователей общего и целевого назначения для тушения пожаров по показателям кратность и устойчивость пены, водородному показателю, а также исследований коррозионной активности растворов пенообразователей с добавлением стабилизирующих составов.

Результаты. Установлены причины, способствующие снижению сохраняемости растворов пенообразователей общего и целевого назначения для тушения пожаров, предложены способы повышения их сроков годности.

Область применения исследований. Представленные результаты исследований могут быть использованы при разработке и производстве новых пенообразователей для тушения пожаров и их хранении в составе стационарных автоматических установок пожаротушения.
Investigation of the properties of soft magnetic composite materials in the frequency range of harmonic oscillations up to 100 kHz
Authors: Govor Gennady A. , Larin Artem O. , Dobriansky Valery M.
Published: February 2020

The dynamic properties of the soft magnetic composite material in the frequency range up to 100 kHz with a change in the thickness of the insulating layer and the size of iron particles were investigated. It is shown that with an increase in the thickness of the insulating layer, the loss for remagnetization decreases, but at the same time there is a decrease in the magnetic value of the saturation induction and magnetic permeability. Therefore, that the decision to reduce losses by increasing the thickness of the insulating coating is not always the best solution. It is preferable to achieve a reduction losses for remagnetization due to an increase in the specific resistance of the insulating layer with its minimum thickness.
First tropospheric measurements of the vertical profle of nitrogen dioxide concentration in Minsk
Authors: Bruchkouski Ilya I.
Published: February 2020

The first measurement results of the vertical profiles of nitrogen dioxide over Minsk employing the Multi-axis recorder of spectra MARS-B and analysis of the obtained spatio-temporal series for 2017 is presented. The vertical profiles of nitrogen dioxide have been retrieved in spectral region 338–370 nm by combining the Multi-axis Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy method and PriAM algorithm for inverse problem solving during daylight. A comparative analysis of the measurement results has been carried out. The classification by dividing the obtained variety of registered nitrogen dioxide profiles into six groups has been presented. Obtained time series of surface layer nitrogen dioxide concentrations as well as nitrogen dioxide total columns have been presented, their statistics have been analyzed, and comparisons with the level of the maximum permissible concentration of nitrogen dioxide for a human have been performed. The values of near-surface concentrations have been compared with the impact gas analyzer data by monitoring network of the Belhydrometcentre (post No. 11), the analysis of the obtained data rejects the hypothesis of their statistical relationship on the scale of a 1-month time series.
Awareness of Diagnosis and Decision-Making
Preferences of Greek Cancer Patients
Authors: Alamanou Despoina G , Giakoumidakis Konstantinos , Theodosiadis Dimosthenis G , Fotos Nikolaos V , Patiraki Elissavet , Brokalak Hero
Published: February 2020

Objective: In Greece, the old phenomenon of hiding cancer diagnosis and depriving cancer patients of their right to participate in decisionmaking remains a reality. The aim of this study was to assess the decision-making preferences of Greek cancer patients and their awareness of
diagnosis. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 229 adult Greek patients diagnosed with cancer, attending the
oncology outpatient department (outpatients) or being hospitalized (inpatients), in one general hospital in Athens. Patients who were aware of
cancer diagnosis (n=209) were administered at the Control Preference Scale (CPS), a tool, designed to elicit decision-making preferences. The
IBM SPSS program, version 21.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: One hundred and one patients (52.8%) were males. The mean
[±standard deviation (SD)] age was 64.8 (±11.2) years. The vast majority of patients knew they suffered from cancer (n=209, 91.3%). Older
patients (p=0.003), those who lived in suburbs of the city (p=0.01), those who had lower educational level (p=0.001), those with lower personal
income (p=0.001) and shorter disease duration (p=0.001) stated that were unaware of cancer diagnosis. Seventy five (36.2%) patients chose the
shared-decision role in decision-making procedures. Lower age (OR 1.04, 95%, CI: 1.00-1.08, p= 0.05) and higher education level (OR 2, 63,
95%, CI: 1.11-6.29, p=0.03) were significantly associated with the preference of patients to actively participate in decision-making regarding
treatment. Conclusions: Although Greek cancer patients are aware of cancer diagnosis and treatment, nowadays, they still seem to hesitate in
playing a more active role in the decision-making procedures, which portrays the impact of the dominating paternalistic model of doctor-patient
relationship in the Greek medical encounter
Experimental Assessment of Fractional-Order PDD1/2 Control of a Brushless DC Motor with Inertial Load
Authors: Bruzzone Luca , Fanghella Pietro , Baggetta Mario
Published: February 2020

The application of Fractional Calculus to control mechatronic devices is a promising research area. The most common approach to Fractional-Order (FO) control design is the PIλDµ scheme, which adopts integrals and derivatives of non-integer order λ and µ. A different possible approach is to add FO terms to the PID control, instead of replacing integer order terms; for example, in the PDD1/2 scheme, the half-derivative term is added to the classical PD. In the present paper, by mainly focusing on the transitory behaviour, a comparison among PD, PDµ, and PDD1/2 control schemes is carried out, with reference to a real-world mechatronic implementation: a position-controlled rotor actuated by a DC brushless motor. While using a general non-dimensional approach, the three control schemes are first compared by continuous-time simulations, and tuning criteria are outlined. Afterwards, the effects of the discrete-time digital implementation of the controllers are investigated by both simulation and experimental tests. The results show how PDD1/2 is an effective and almost cost-free solution for improving the trajectory-tracking performance in position control of mechatronic devices, with limited computational burden and, consequently, easily implementable on most commercial motion control drives.
Synthesis and Bioactivity of Thiazolethioacetamides as Potential Metallo-β-Lactamase Inhibitors
Authors: Zhang Yi-Lin , Yan Yong , Wang Xue-Jun , Yang Ke-Wu
Published: February 2020

Metallo-β-lactamase (MβLs) mediated antibiotic resistance seriously threatens the treatment of bacterial diseases. Recently, we found that thioacetamides can be a potential MβL inhibitor skeleton. In order to improve the information of the skeleton, twelve new thiazolethioacetamides were designed by modifying the aromatic substituent. Biological activity assays identify the thiazolethioacetamides can inhibit ImiS with IC50 values of 0.17 to 0.70 μM. For two of them, the IC50 values against VIM-2 were 2.2 and 19.2 μM, which is lower than in our previous report. Eight of the thiazolethioacetamides are able to restore antibacterial activity of cefazolin against E.coli-ImiS by 2–4 fold. An analysis of the structure–activity relation and molecule docking show that the style and position of electron withdrawing groups in aromatic substituents play a crucial role in the inhibitory activity of thiazolethioacetamides. These results indicate that thiazolethioacetamides can serve as a potential skeleton of MβL inhibitors.
Untargetted Metabolomic Exploration of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Stress Response to Cinnamon Essential Oil
Authors: Sieniawska Elwira , Sawicki Rafał , Golus Joanna , Georgiev Milen I.
Published: February 2020

The antimycobacterial activity of cinnamaldehyde has already been proven for laboratory strains and for clinical isolates. What is more, cinnamaldehyde was shown to threaten the mycobacterial plasma membrane integrity and to activate the stress response system. Following promising applications of metabolomics in drug discovery and development we aimed to explore the mycobacteria response to cinnamaldehyde within cinnamon essential oil treatment by untargeted liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The use of predictive metabolite pathway analysis and description of produced lipids enabled the evaluation of the stress symptoms shown by bacteria. This study suggests that bacteria exposed to cinnamaldehyde could reorganize their outer membrane as a physical barrier against stress factors. They probably lowered cell wall permeability and inner membrane fluidity, and possibly redirected carbon flow to store energy in triacylglycerols. Being a reactive compound, cinnamaldehyde may also contribute to disturbances in bacteria redox homeostasis and detoxification mechanisms.
Bispecific Antibodies and Antibody–Drug Conjugates for Cancer Therapy: Technological Considerations
Authors: Shim Hyunbo
Published: February 2020

The ability of monoclonal antibodies to specifically bind a target antigen and neutralize or stimulate its activity is the basis for the rapid growth and development of the therapeutic antibody field. In recent years, traditional immunoglobulin antibodies have been further engineered for better efficacy and safety, and technological developments in the field enabled the design and production of engineered antibodies capable of mediating therapeutic functions hitherto unattainable by conventional antibody formats. Representative of this newer generation of therapeutic antibody formats are bispecific antibodies and antibody–drug conjugates, each with several approved drugs and dozens more in the clinical development phase. In this review, the technological principles and challenges of bispecific antibodies and antibody–drug conjugates are discussed, with emphasis on clinically validated formats but also including recent developments in the fields, many of which are expected to significantly augment the current therapeutic arsenal against cancer and other diseases with unmet medical needs.
Element Enterprise Tycoon: Playing Board Games to Learn Chemistry in Daily Life
Authors: Tsai Jen-Che , Chen Shih-Yeh , Chang Chun-Yen , Liu Shiang-Yao
Published: February 2020

This article reports the design of a scientific board game, named “Element Enterprise Tycoon” (EET), which creates a scenario combining chemical elements, techniques, and products in daily life. The game cards are designed to motivate students not only to retrieve information about chemical elements, but also to be proficient in chemistry. Moreover, the game creates opportunities for group interactions and competitions to engage students in learning chemical elements as they do in regular science curricula. The EET has been field-tested with a group of middle school students to evaluate its applicability. Empirical data show that students improve their understanding of chemistry concepts with a median level of effect size. In particular, students achieve better performance in terms of chemistry-related technique concepts. The follow-up interviews reflect students’ positive feedback and attitudes toward science learning through board game playing and their willingness to continue to play the game. It is suggested that learning through science games can indeed help students learn new chemical knowledge.
Massive MIMO Systems: Present and Future
Authors: Maruta Kazuki , Falcone Francisco
Published: February 2020

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Review on Non-Dairy Probiotics and Their Use in Non-Dairy Based Products
Authors: Aspri Maria , Papademas Photis , Tsaltas Dimitrios
Published: February 2020

Consumer demands for foods promoting health while preventing diseases have led to development of functional foods that contain probiotic bacteria. Fermented dairy products are good substrates for probiotic delivery, but the large number of lactose intolerant people, their high fat and cholesterol content and also due to the growing vegetarianism the consumers are seeking for alternatives. Therefore, researches have been widely studied the feasibility of probiotic bacteria in non-dairy products such as fruits, vegetables, and cereals. This review describes the application of probiotic cultures in non-dairy food products.
Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Reducing Anxiety in Patients with Potentially Malignant Oral Disorders
Authors: Lopez-Yufera Elia , López-Jornet Pia , Toralla Oscar , Pons-Fuster López Eduardo
Published: February 2020

Objective: To evaluate the effect of a music intervention upon anxiety, blood pressure, and heart rate in adult patients with potentially malignant oral disorders. Methods: Eighty consecutive adults (mean age: 68.3 years) consulting a Unit of Oral Medicine (Murcia Spain) were randomized to a study group (n = 40) that listened to music through headphones during 10 min or to a control group (n = 40). Corah’s dental anxiety score, blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation (oximetry), skin temperature, and salivation were recorded at different timepoints before and after patient consultation. Results: Significant pre- versus post-consultation reductions were observed in blood pressure (p < 0.001) and heart rate (p < 0.001), though not in temperature, salivation, and oxygen saturation (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences between the study group and the controls (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The applied music intervention had no apparent effect upon anxiety. Further studies using different music intervention strategies and/or analytic parameters are needed to explore the benefits of this approach to decreasing anxiety.
The Relationship Between Gastrointestinal Comorbidities, Clinical Presentation and Surgical Outcome in Patients with DCM: Analysis of a Global Cohort
Authors: Nouri Aria , Badhiwala Jetan H. , Kato So , Reihani-Kermani Hamed , Patel Kishan , Wilson Jefferson R. , Janssen Insa , Cheng Joseph S. , Schaller Karl , Tessitore Enrico , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: February 2020

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is the most common cause of spinal cord impairment in adults, presenting most frequently in patients 50 years or older. Gastrointestinal comorbidities (GICs) commonly occur in this group; however, their relationship with DCM has not been thoroughly investigated. It is the objective of the present study to investigate the difference between patients with or without GICs who are surgically treated for DCM. A cohort of 757 patients with clinical data and 458 with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from the AOSpine North America and AOSpine International studies on DCM was evaluated. GICs were obtained at presentation and included gastric, intestinal, hepatic, and pancreatic conditions. Patients were dichotomized into 2 groups: those with GICs and those without GICs. Both clinical and MRI presentation, as well as baseline neurological and functional status, were compared. Neurological and functional outcomes at 2-year follow-up were also compared. GICs were present in 121 patients (16%). These patients were less commonly male (48.76% vs. 65.4%, p = 0.001) and were slightly less neurologically impaired based on the Nurick grade (3.05 ± 1.10 vs. 3.28 ± 1.16, p = 0.044) but not based on mJOA (12.74 ± 2.62 vs. 12.48 ± 2.76, p = 0.33). They also had a worse physical health score (32.80 ± 8.79 vs. 34.65 ± 9.38 p = 0.049), worse neck disability (46.31 ± 20.04 vs. 38.23 ± 20.44, p < 0.001), a lower prevalence of upper motor neuron signs (hyperreflexia, 70.2% vs. 78.9%, p = 0.037; Babinski’s sign 24.8% vs. 37.3%, p = 0.008), and a higher rate of psychiatric comorbidities (31.4% vs. 10.4%, p < 0.0001). On MRI, GIC patients less commonly exhibited signal intensity changes (T2 hyperintensity, 49.2% vs. 75.6%, p < 0.001; T1 hypointensity, 9.7% vs. 21.1%, p = 0.036), and had a lower number of T2 hyperintensity levels (0.82 ± 0.98 vs. 1.3 ± 1.11, p = 0.001). There was no difference in surgical outcome between the groups. DCM patients with GICs are more likely to be female and have significantly more general health impairment and neck disability. However, these patients have less clinical and MRI features typical of more severe neurological impairment. This constellation of symptoms is considerably different than those typically observed in DCM, and it is therefore plausible that nutritional factors may contribute to this unique observation.
Bulk Wave Dissipation in the Armor Layer of Slope Rock and Cube Armored Breakwaters
Authors: Clavero María , Díaz-Carrasco Pilar , Losada Miguel Á.
Published: February 2020

The objective of this research is to analyze the interaction of the incident wave train with a mound breakwater (specifically, dissipation in the armor layer) and to quantify the performance of the structure built with different types and sizes of armor units. The generalized Π -Buckingham theorem is invoked to choose a complete set of independent variables that govern the principal interaction processes. The analysis is based on two sets of experimental data obtained in the wave flume of IISTA, University of Granada, and in the wave flume of Aalborg University. The bulk dissipation depends on the product of the relative water depth and the incident wave steepness, (h/L)(HI/L), the relative size of the armor diameter, Da/HI, the relative thickness, e/L, the shape and specific placement criterion, the characteristics of the porous core, B*/L, D50,p/L, and the slope angle of the breakwater. For a given breakwater, the product of (h/L)(HI/L) can be used to identify and quantify three hydrodynamic performance regimes: reflective, dissipative and transitional, based on the prevalent interaction processes. Moreover, the dimensional analysis provides a functional relationship between the stability parameter and the bulk dissipation. For two mound breakwaters, one built with cubes of Da=49.6 mm and the other one with rocks of Da=44.0 mm, the bulk dissipation is almost similar over the entire range of (h/L)(HI/L). These results could be useful for the assimilation of data obtained in different wave flumes, the optimization of the breakwater design and to revise the notional permeability parameter.
The Sensory Quality Improvement of Citrus Wine through Co-Fermentations with Selected Non-Saccharomyces Yeast Strains and Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Hu Lanlan , Liu Rui , Wang Xiaohong , Zhang Xiuyan
Published: February 2020

Co-fermentation of selected non-Saccharomyces yeast strain with Saccharomyces cerevisiae is regarded as a promising approach to improve the sensory quality of fruit wine. To evaluate the effects of co-fermentations between the selected non-Saccharomyces yeast strains (Hanseniaspora opuntiae, Hanseniaspora uvarum and Torulaspora delbrueckii) and S. cerevisiae on the sensory quality of citrus wine, the fermentation processes, the chemical compositions, and the sensory evaluations of citrus wines were analyzed. Compared with those of S. cerevisiae fermentation, co-fermentations produced high sensory qualities, and S. cerevisiae/H. opuntiae co-fermentation had the best sensory quality followed by Sc-Hu and Sc-Td co-fermentations. Additionally, all the co-fermentations had a lower amount of ethanol and total acidity, higher pH value, and higher content of volatile aroma compounds, especially the content of higher alcohol and ester compounds, than those of S. cerevisiae fermentation. Therefore, co-fermentations of the non-Saccharomyces yeast strains and S. cerevisiae could be employed to improve the sensory quality of citrus wines. These results would provide not only methods to improve the sensory quality of citrus wine, but also a valuable reference for the selection of non-Saccharomyces yeast strains for fruit wine fermentation.
A Step-by-Step Guide for the Novel Radiometal Production for Medical Applications: Case Studies with 68Ga, 44Sc, 177Lu and 161Tb
Authors: Talip Zeynep , Favaretto Chiara , Geistlich Susanne , Meulen Nicholas P. van der
Published: February 2020

The production of novel radionuclides is the first step towards the development of new effective radiopharmaceuticals, and the quality thereof directly affects the preclinical and clinical phases. In this review, novel radiometal production for medical applications is briefly elucidated. The production status of the imaging nuclide 44Sc and the therapeutic β--emitter nuclide 161Tb are compared to their more established counterparts, 68Ga and 177Lu according to their targetry, irradiation process, radiochemistry, and quality control aspects. The detailed discussion of these significant issues will help towards the future introduction of these promising radionuclides into drug manufacture for clinical application under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
Enhanced Shielding Performance of Layered Carbon Fiber Composites Filled with Carbonyl Iron and Carbon Nanotubes in the Koch Curve Fractal Method
Authors: Zhang Hetong , Guo Yue , Zhang Xiang , Wang Xinqian , Wang Hang , Shi Chunsheng , He Fang
Published: February 2020

Layered carbon fiber composites (CFC) with enhanced shielding effectiveness (SE) were prepared with mixed fillers of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbonyl iron powders (CIPs) in the form of a Koch curve fractal. In the layered composite structure, glass fiber (GF) cloth was used in the wave–transmissive layer (WTL), and the carbon fiber (CF) cloth was used in the supporting layer (SL). Between WTL and SL, CNTs and CIPs were distributed in epoxy resin in the form of a Koch curve fractal to act as an absorbing layer (AL), and copper foil was used as a reflective layer (RL) and bonded at the bottom of the whole composites. The layered structure design and excellent interlayer interface integration obviously improved the SE performance of the CFC. The SE of different samples was investigated, and the results show that, with the increase in the number (n) of Koch curve fractals, the SE of the samples enhanced in the low frequency scope (1–5 GHz). The sample with n = 2 has the highest SE value of 73.8 dB at 2.3 GHz. The shielding performance of the fractal sample filled by CNTs and CIPs simultaneously has a comprehensive improvement in the whole scope of 1–18 GHz, especially for the sample with n = 2. The cumulative bandwidth value of the SE exceeding 55 dB is about 14.3 GHz, accounting for 85% of the whole frequency scope, indicating the composite fabricated in this paper is an electromagnetic shielding material with great prospect.
Enhanced Hybridization Selectivity Using Structured GammaPNA Probes
Authors: Canady Taylor D. , Berlyoung April S. , Martinez Joe A. , Emanuelson Cole , Telmer Cheryl A. , Bruchez Marcel P. , Armitage Bruce A.
Published: February 2020

High affinity nucleic acid analogues such as gammaPNA (γPNA) are capable of invading stable secondary and tertiary structures in DNA and RNA targets but are susceptible to off-target binding to mismatch-containing sequences. We introduced a hairpin secondary structure into a γPNA oligomer to enhance hybridization selectivity compared with a hairpin-free analogue. The hairpin structure features a five base PNA mask that covers the proximal five bases of the γPNA probe, leaving an additional five γPNA bases available as a toehold for target hybridization. Surface plasmon resonance experiments demonstrated that the hairpin probe exhibited slower on-rates and faster off-rates (i.e., lower affinity) compared with the linear probe but improved single mismatch discrimination by up to a factor of five, due primarily to slower on-rates for mismatch vs. perfect match targets. The ability to discriminate against single mismatches was also determined in a cell-free mRNA translation assay using a luciferase reporter gene, where the hairpin probe was two-fold more selective than the linear probe. These results validate the hairpin design and present a generalizable approach to improving hybridization selectivity.
A Study of Opiate, Opiate Metabolites and Antihistamines in Urine after Consumption of Cold Syrups by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Yen Yao-Te , Chang Yin-Jue , Lai Pin-Jung , Chang Chi-Lun , Chen Ting-Yueh , Chyueh San-Chong
Published: February 2020

Studying the origin of opiate and/or opiate metabolites in individual urine specimens after consumption of cold syrups is vital for patients, doctors, and law enforcement. A rapid liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method using “dilute-and-shoot” analysis without the need for extraction, hydrolysis and/or derivatization has been developed and validated. The approach provides linear ranges of 2.5–1000 ng mL−1 for 6-acetylmorphine, codeine, chlorpheniramine, and carbinoxamine, 2.5–800 ng mL−1 for morphine and morphine-3-β-d-glucuronide, and 2.5–600 ng mL−1 for morphine-6-β-d-glucuronide and codeine-6-β-d-glucuronide, with excellent correlation coefficients (R2 > 0.995) and matrix effects (< 5%). Urine samples collected from the ten participants orally administered cold syrups were analyzed. The results concluded that participants consuming codeine-containing cold syrups did not routinely pass urine tests for opiates, and their morphine–codeine concentration ratios (M/C) were not always < 1. In addition, the distribution map of the clinical total concentration of the sum of morphine and codeine against the antihistamines (chlorpheniramine or carbinoxamine) were plotted for discrimination of people who used cold syrups. The 15 real cases have been studied by using M/C rule, cutoff value, and distribution map, further revealing a potential approach to determine opiate metabolite in urine originating from cold syrups.