bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An insight into drought stress and signal transduction of abscisic acid
Authors: Kumari Arpna , Kaur Rajanbir , Kaur Rajinder
Published: April 2018

The sustainable crop production is one of the major issue in the era of urbanization, industrialization, and globalization. In the environment, there are number of abiotic and biotic factors which are hampering the sustainable production of crops. The drought is one of the constraints which directly/indirectly affects the crop yield. It has various negative effects on the normal physiology and biochemistry of the plants. Therefore, researchers must have to work in the field of developing drought-tolerant crop plants to meet the food needs of the exponentially growing population of the world. The present study is the outcome of an extensive literature survey on the basic perturbations of drought to the crops, role of abscisic acid (ABA) in stressful conditions and its signal transduction.
Mechanism of oxymatrine-induced human esophageal cancer cell apoptosis by the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway
Authors: Wang Baiyan , Zhou Huiru , Zhu Yanqin
Published: April 2018

Endoplasmic reticulum stress is one of the mechanisms of cell apoptosis. In this study, the mechanism of oxymatrine-induced human esophageal cancer Eca-109 cell apoptosis by the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway was investigated. Eca-109 cells were cultured in vitro with different doses of oxymatrine (0.5, 1, 2 μg/mL) for 48 h. The cell viability and proliferation inhibition rate were examined by MTT assay and cell cycle assay. The apoptosis rate was examined by Annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide assay. The expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress markers, including binding immunoglobulin protein and CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein, were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. MTT data showed that oxymatrine significantly inhibited the proliferation of Eca-109 cells. The cell apoptosis rate was quantified by flow cytometry. The expression of binding immunoglobulin protein was markedly downregulated in oxymatrine-treated Eca-109 cells while that of CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein was upregulated. Oxymatrine inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of human esophageal carcinoma Eca-109 cells. Thus, oxymatrine may be a potential agent for treating human esophageal cancer.
A new combination of substrates: biogas production and diversity of the methanogenic microorganisms
Authors: Kushkevych Ivan , Vítězová Monika , Vítěz Tomáš , Kováč Jozef , Kaucká Petra , Jesionek Wojciech , Bartoš Milan , Barton Larry
Published: April 2018

Agriculture, food industry, and manufacturing are just some of the areas where anaerobic technology can be used. Currently, anaerobic technologies are mainly used for wastewater treatment, solid waste treatment, or for the production of electrical and thermal energy from energy crops processing. However, a clear trend is towards more intensive use of this technology in biomass and biodegradable waste processing and hydrogen or biomethane production. An enormous number of anaerobic digesters are operating worldwide but there is very little information about the effect of different substrate combinations on the methanogens community. This is due to the fact that each of the anaerobic digesters has its own unique microbial community. For the most effective management of anaerobic processes it would be important to know the composition of a consortium of anaerobic microorganisms present in anaerobic digesters processing different input combinations of raw material. This paper characterizes the effect of the input raw materials on the diversity of the methanogen community. Two predominant microorganisms in anaerobic digesters were found to be 99% identity by the sequences of the 16S rRNA gene to theMethanoculleusandThermogymnomonasgenera deposited in GenBank.
Bioassay-guided isolation and identification of Aedes aegypti larvicidal and biting deterrent compounds from Veratrum lobelianum
Authors: Tabanca Nurhayat , Ali Zulfiqar , Bernier Ulrich R. , Epsky Nancy , Nalbantsoy Ayse , Khan Ikhlas A. , Ali Abbas
Published: April 2018

An ethanol extract from Veratrum lobelianum Bernh. rhizomes showed larvicidal activity with LC50 values of 11.79 ppm and 89.9 ppm against 1st and 4th instar larvae, respectively, at 24 h post-treatment. The extract also showed proportion not biting (PNB) value of 0.76 at 100 μg/cm2 against females of Ae. aegypti. Systematic bioassay-guided fractionation of V. lobelianum extract resulted in the isolation of five compounds that were identified as ethyl palmitate (1), ethyl linoleate (2), β-sitosterol (3), resveratrol (4) and oxyresveratrol (5) by GC-MS, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR techniques, comparison with literature data, and confirmation with authentic compounds. Compound 2 exhibited larvicidal activity with an LC50 value of 24.1 (22.0-26.2) ppm whereas 1 was inactive. β-Sitosterol (3) displayed the highest larvicidal activity with LC50= 1.7 (1.3-12.3) ppm and LC90= 5.1 (3.4-13.8) ppm. Compounds 4 and 5 had larvicidal activity with LC50 values of 18.5 (15.3-23.3) and 22.6 (19.0-26.8) ppm, respectively, and had an equivalent PNB values of 0.75 at 25 nmol/cm2. In addition, 4 and 5 were explored for their human-based repellency against Ae. aegypti, attractiveness against male medflies Ceratitis capitata, and also evaluated against series of human carcinoma cells (A549, HEK293, HeLa, SH-SY5Y); however, no significant activity was found.
From Risk to Terror: Islamist Conspiracies and the Paradoxes of Post-9/11 Government
Authors: El-Shall Maryam
Published: April 2018

Discourses of Islamist terrorism deployed as part of the War on Terror have fed into a host of conspiracy theories imagining Islam as a system of total government. But even before 9/11, mainstream political discourses reflected similar suspicions. Beginning in the 1980s, concerns about the political establishment were expressed from within government itself in the idea of a government that governs “too much.” In this article, I suggest that the proliferation of Islamist conspiracies after 9/11 reflects this mode of government. To develop this argument, I begin by linking discourses about terrorism produced as part of the War on Terror to conspiracy theories linking terror and Islam to notions of total power in the state. I then suggest that Islamist conspiracies draw on the epistemologies of uncertainty produced by the state in order to transform what is unknown or “risky” into un/certain objects of knowledge and truth. This transformation takes place through their location in the space of the sacred-in the soul of Islam. I illustrate these parallels through a comparative analysis of official policies and discourses of terrorism and conspiracy culture, with a focus on the Center for Security Policy website and Glenn Beck’s It Is About Islam: Exposing the Truth About ISIS, Al Qaeda, Iran and the Caliphate, where discourse about terror is used to signify the (hidden) truth of Islam.
Comparison of six WPCs made of organo-montmorillonite-modified fibers of four trees, moso bamboo and wheat straw and poly(lactic acid) (PLA)
Authors: Liu Ru , Liu Min , Hu Shenghui , Huang Anmin , Ma Erni
Published: April 2018

Fibers of four tree species, moso bamboo and wheat straw were modified in situ with organo-montmorillonite (OMMT). The characterization of the physical and mechanical properties of the resulting composites showed that OMMT can be synthesized in situ within the fibers’ matrix. Some individual OMMT layers were clearly observed, while some agglomeration was seen on the fiber surface. After blending with poly(lactic acid) (PLA), redistributions of OMMT in the PLA matrix occurred and most properties of the composites were improved. The modification effect of Chinese fir was the best while that of moso bamboo and straw wheat was rarely poor because of their different chemical components, anatomical structures and densities. In short, a higher lignin content, large diameter of pits and lower density contributed to the improved properties of the wood plastic composites (WPCs) with the participation of OMMT.
Feeding ecology of the marsupialThylamys macrurus(Olfers 1818) (Mammalia, Didelphidae) in woodland patches of Cerrado, central-western Brazil
Authors: Melo Geruza Leal , Santos Sara Angélica , Sponchiado Jonas , Cáceres Nilton Carlos , Lessa Leonardo Guimarães
Published: April 2018

Knowledge about the feeding ecology of didelphid marsupials remains incipient, especially in environments with marked seasonality in resource supply, such as in the Cerrado. We analysed the diet composition ofThylamys macrurusin Cerrado patches in central-western Brazil. We also evaluated seasonal and sexual variation in the species’ diet, as well as if the accumulation of fat in the tail shows a seasonal pattern. We obtained 87 captures of 68T. macrurusspecimens and 29 faecal samples. Six categories of food items (Hymenoptera, Isoptera, Coleoptera, Arachnida, Blattodea and seeds) were identified. Arthropods were recorded in all samples and seeds in 10.3%. The species showed seasonal variation in diet, consuming primarily of arthropods throughout the year but incorporating a higher proportion of fruits during the wet season. Males and females also differed in diet composition; males consumed a wider range of items in the dry season. Although more detailed analyses are still needed to better understand theT. macrurusfood consumption pattern, our results indicate a possible relationship between dietary variation and local availability of resources, suggesting an opportunistic foraging pattern. The accumulation of fat in the tail also presents a seasonal pattern, with a larger tail diameter in the dry season.
Multilingual professionals in internationally operating companies: tensions in their linguistic repertoire?
Authors: van der Worp Karin , Cenoz Jasone , Gorter Durk
Published: April 2018

Several studies on multilingualism in the workplace have emphasized the role of English as a lingua franca. Other studies have paid attention to the interaction between English and local languages in workplaces where global orientations and local languages co-occur. The present study focuses on internationally oriented workplaces in the bilingual Basque Autonomous Community (BAC). The study aims to analyze the use of the minority language Basque in the workplace and the challenges it faces in an emerging multilingual global context. The promotion and use of the minority language in internationally oriented workplaces is related to language policies of the regional government, the role of ‘new speakers’ of Basque, and the possible tensions between the efforts to revitalize Basque and the use of English as a global language, mediated by the position of Spanish as a strong international language. Our conclusion is that there is a need to establish new policies that are truly multilingual as well as to raise awareness in companies about the importance of adequate language management practices.
The Emergence of Denmark’s Tax Treaty Network — A Historical View
Authors: Schmidt Peter Koerver
Published: April 2018

This contribution analyzes the origin and creation of Denmark’s tax treaty network in a historical perspective. The development of the Danish treaty network is studied through an international perspective and by discussing a number of milestone events. It is concluded that the general tendency has pointed toward a continuously growing Danish treaty network and also that the question on abuse of the treaties has become of greater concern during the past decades. Moreover, it is argued that the growing number and importance of Denmark’s tax treaties over time created a need for the Danish parliament to be more directly involved in the conclusion of new tax treaties.
Changing archaeology's ‘brand’ would be helpful
Authors: Zimmerman Larry J.
Published: April 2018

González-Ruibal et al. raise challenging issues that seem frightening in their implications. In both their specificity and their wider theoretical contexts, I had previously given these issues little thought, and some I had not even recognised. I share fully the authors’ concern that archaeologists must seek ways to engage people influenced by ‘reactionary populism’, people who “are diverse, fragmented and complex”, and who may be “greedy, patriarchal, xenophobic or uninterested in the past” (González-Ruibal et al. above). The authors find fault with the multi-vocal, multi-cultural approaches of epistemic populist archaeologies that tend to exclude most of those who fit this description. I could object to some of the details of the authors’ critiques of epistemic populism and heritage studies, but their core arguments are mostly correct and powerful. At the same time, at least within a North American context, I think that archaeologists have generally reacted to the various populist pressures of the past century and that we have already started to do what the authors suggest.
Progress, problems, and possibilities of GIS in the South Caucasus: an international workshop summary
Authors: Lindsay Ian , Rubinson Karen S. , Greene Alan F. , Hammer Emily , Lawrence Dan
Published: April 2018

In response to increased international collaboration in archaeological research of the South Caucases, a recent workshop has addressed important issues in applying GIS to the study of heavily modified landscapes in the former Soviet republics of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia.
Water Immersion-Induced Strength Performance of Solidified Soils with Reactive MgO—A Green and Low Carbon Binder
Authors: Wang Dongxing , Wang Hongwei , Jiang Yuzhou
Published: April 2018

Although portland cement is widely used for soft ground improvement, there are significant environmental impacts associated with its production. Thus, the reuse of industrial by-products is encouraged to develop environmentally friendly binders. The soils solidified with reactive magnesium oxide (MgO)—a green and low carbon binder—are subjected to water immersion for different periods of time, and later, the unconfined compressive strength tests are performed on them. The water stability of nonsolidified and MgO-solidified soils is evaluated by visual examination and strength evaluation. A detailed comparison of strength between MgO-, MgO plus fly ash-, and cement-solidified soils is performed, and the test result demonstrates the reinforcing effect of fly ash addition and the superiority of reactive MgO over cement in strength optimization. The image analysis suggests three typical failure modes of tested samples, i.e., shearing failure, lateral bulge failure, and taper failure. The failure modes are closely related to the compressive strength levels. The data indicate that the power function and linear function can describe satisfactorily the correlations of compressive strength against failure strain and compressive strength against the deformation modulus. The microstructural analysis, especially, reveals that the main hydration products responsible for strength amelioration are magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) and calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) gels for MgO and cement-treated soils, respectively. Further research should be systematically performed on MgO plus fly ash-solidified soils to investigate the physico-chemical reactions that potentially occurred, although Mg(OH)2 and M-S-H are primarily detected in reactive MgO-activated fly ash paste. To summarize, the environmental and economic benefits can be expected from replacing portland cement with reactive MgO-bearing binders for soil solidification.
Revisiting Relationships among Specific Surface Area, Soil Consistency Limits, and Group Index of Clays
Authors: Deng Yongfeng , Liu Qianwen , Cui Yujun , Wang Qiong , Liu Songyu
Published: April 2018

Investigations correlating specific surface area (SSA) with other soil parameters like consistency limits are helpful in understanding the internal meaning of soil properties. In this study, a large database (267 groups of test results) from the literature is established, and the performed statistical analyses show that the traditional relationship with limited data may be invalid when large data are involved. Hereafter, there is a relatively good relationship between the soil consistency limits and SSA when the threshold SSA value (about 80 m2/g) is identified, which suggests that the soils totally behave as pellets and platelets in the geometry, respectively, before and after this value. Despite the fact that this threshold SSA should complicatedly depend on the crystalline formation, clay mineral, and clay fraction in the particle size distribution, this threshold is relatively reliable in view of these large data statistics. Additionally, the group index by ASTM and the methylene blue value by Laboratoire Centrale des Ponts et Chaussées in France can be mutually converted to characterize subgrade soils to account for the established relationship between consistency limits and SSA.
Evaluation of Synthetic Fiber Reinforced Concrete Pipe Performance Using Three-Edge Bearing Test
Authors: Al Rikabi Fouad T. , Sargand Shad M. , Kurdziel John
Published: April 2018

Synthetic fibers have recently been used in a concrete mix in an attempt to produce a new concrete pipe system that is cheaper, lighter, and more flexible than conventional steel reinforced concrete pipes. However, no structural design codes have been introduced for synthetic fiber reinforced concrete pipes evaluation. There is little in the literature regarding synthetic fiber applications in concrete pipes. This study focuses on the evaluation of the synthetic fiber reinforced concrete pipes in terms of ASTM requirements for strength, stiffness, and ductility. The performance of the synthetic fiber reinforced concrete pipes was evaluated using a three-edge bearing test in accordance with ASTM protocols and using three pipe diameters: 600, 1,200, and 1,500 mm. Fiber dosages ranged from 4.75 to 18 kg/m3, and different areas of one steel cage layer were used to reinforce the concrete pipes. The results show that using synthetic fiber increased the cracking load (produces 0.3-mm crack width), ultimate load, stiffness, and ductility of tested pipes. Also, using synthetic fiber lowered the production cost, as the reduction in the steel cage area ranged from 51 to 100 %.
Study on the Properties and Mechanism of Mortars Modified by Super Absorbent Polymers
Authors: Faping Li , Jiesheng Liu
Published: April 2018

The article investigated the influence of Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) with absorption behaviors on the consistency, fluidity, water absorption, mechanical properties, early crack resistance, permeability resistance, and degree of hydration of cementitious construction materials. Mechanical strength was investigated using a flexural and compressive strength test machine. Nonevaporable water content was employed to assess the degree of hydration of the cement powders. The durability of mortar was characterized using early crack resistance and a permeability resistance test. Furthermore, the micromechanism of mortars modified by SAPs and control mortars was researched using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Experimental results showed that for the SAPs and mix designs used in this article, the incorporation of SAPs generally reduced the mechanical strength and increased the consistency, fluidity, water absorption, and degree of hydration of modified mortars compared with control mortars. The durability of mortars incorporating SAPs was greatly improved. The connection of the macroproperty and micromechanism of mortars was researched using an SEM.
Optimization of Laboratory Preparation of the Emulsified Bioasphalt with Two Emulsifiers
Authors: Chen Xi , Wang Hainian , Wang Qinghua , Yang Xu , You Zhanping
Published: April 2018

The goal of this study was to optimize emulsified bioasphalt (a mix of bio-oil and petroleum asphalt) performance by investigating the effects of various bio-oil dosages and emulsifier types and dosages. A colloid mill with high-speed rotation was used to emulsify the bioasphalt at 100°C. The single variable theory of analysis was adopted to analyze the influence of bio-oil and emulsifier on the performance of emulsified bioasphalt. Two types of emulsifiers were used: Shanghai Yuanrong-type (SY-type) and Meadwestvaco-type (MD-type). Five bio-oil contents were selected to produce the bioasphalt: 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 %. Five emulsifier dosages were applied for the bioasphalt emulsification: 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 %. Properties were evaluated by a series of tests, including the remaining amount of evaporation residue, penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity, and storage stability. Based upon these test results, a 55:45 water-oil ratio, 15–20 % bio-oil content, and 3.5 % SY-type or 3.0 % MD-type emulsifier dosage is recommended.
Renewable Energy–Supported Hybrid Active Power Filter for Grid-Connected Application
Authors: Gowthaman A. , Anita R.
Published: April 2018

This research article presents a Photovoltaic (PV) and battery-supported Series Hybrid Active Power Filter (SHAPF), which includes a series APF (SAPF), parallel-connected passive filter, and PV system with a battery energy storage unit. The PV-supported SHAPF provides compensation against the voltage harmonics, current harmonics, and voltage interruption for a whole day. The SHAPF systems need certainty in order to provide active power to the power system to maintain the load voltage level during voltage sag. Conventionally, the SAPF has the capacity to compensate for a limited amount of active power in the system. Thus, additional energy sources need to be added into the dc link of the SAPF. The proposed SHAPF circuitry utilizes the renewable energy source with an energy storage unit to meet the dc-link voltage requirement of the SAPF. Additionally, it exports the power that is generated in the PV system to the load. The series inverter is used to supply part of or the entire reactive power required by the load along with compensating the sag and swell, supply voltage unbalance, and distortions. This is achieved by controlling the phase angle and the magnitude of series-injected voltage, which is called the power angle control method. The fuzzy logic controller-based power angle control method is employed to compensate the voltage-based disturbances in the distribution system. The performance of the PV and battery-supported SHAPF is evaluated by conducting MATLAB/Simulink simulation and experimental studies.
Evaluation of Soil Saver Walls on Aquatic Organism Passage Through Box Culverts
Authors: Neupane Madan , Parsons Robert L. , Han Jie , Parr David A. , Jacobe James A.
Published: April 2018

Reinforced concrete box culverts are designed to provide hydraulic conveyance at peak stream discharge in a cost-effective manner; however, these structures can promote headcutting. Many state departments of transportation construct soil saver walls or similar structures on the upstream of box culverts to prevent headcutting. These walls act as a drop inlet and may hinder free movement of aquatic organisms. The potential impact on aquatic organism passage has resulted in regulatory pressure to develop alternatives or modifications to the traditional soil saver wall design. This article contains the results of an analysis of the potential impact of box culverts with solid soil saver walls on aquatic organism passage. The results of a survey of thirty states and fifteen field sites on the current state-of-practice for box culverts, and flume tests using model box culverts with a solid soil saver wall and with modified design to promote aquatic passage are presented. Modifications to the soil saver wall design are recommended based on the results of the survey of states, field surveys, and flume testing.
Impacts of HIV Stigma on Psychosocial Well-Being and Substance Use Behaviors Among People Living With HIV/AIDS In China: Across the Life Span
Authors: Zhang Chen , Li Xiaoming , Liu Yu , Zhou Yuejiao , Shen Zhiyong , Chen Yi
Published: April 2018

To date, existing studies have indicated that stigma against people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) negatively affects their psychosocial well-being, and the impact may differ by age. In the current study, we aim to assess the impact of various types of stigma on PLWHA's psychological status and concomitant substance use. We explored different types of HIV stigma with psychosocial well-being and substance use employing mixed effect models among 2,987 Chinese PLWHA. Multivariate analyses revealed that each type of HIV stigma is positively associated with psychosocial distress, but negatively related to resilience and self-esteem across all age groups of PLWHA, with enacted stigma showing the strongest impact. Stigmatized PLWHA are more likely to smoke and use drugs, especially among the < 35 and 35–49-year-old groups. Age-specific interventions should be implemented to enhance PLWHA's stigma coping skill for improving their psychological health and reducing substance use in China and worldwide.
A Qualitative Study of Young Men Who Have Sex With Men and Multilevel Factors Related to HIV Risks in Malaysia
Authors: Burch William J. , Hart Graham J. , Lim Sin How
Published: April 2018

Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are a group at high risk for HIV infection, yet no research has been conducted to understand this population in Malaysia. Semistructured interviews from a combination of YMSM aged 18–25 (n = 20) and local service providers of sexual health services (n = 4) were conducted from May to June 2015. Thematic analysis was used to identify common themes in participant responses from transcripts. Participants reported societal and internalized homophobia, an absence of sex education and difficulty accessing confidential HIV testing. This study provides insights into how homophobia in Malaysian society influences individual risk behavior for HIV in Malaysian YMSM, and makes practical suggestions for more effective HIV prevention in this population.
Striatal Direct and Indirect Pathway Output Structures Are Differentially Altered in Mouse Models of Huntington's Disease
Authors: Barry Joshua , Akopian Garnik , Cepeda Carlos , Levine Michael S.
Published: April 2018

The present study examined synaptic communication between direct and indirect output pathway striatal medium-sized spiny neurons (MSNs) and their target structures, the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) and the external globus pallidus (GPe) in two mouse models of Huntington's disease (HD). Cre recombination, optogenetics, and whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were used to determine alterations in intrinsic and synaptic properties of SNr and GPe neurons from both male and female symptomatic R6/2 (>60 d) and presymptomatic (2 months) or symptomatic (10–12 months) YAC128 mice. Cell membrane capacitance was decreased, whereas input resistance was increased in SNr neurons from R6/2, but not YAC128 mice. The amplitude of GABAergic responses evoked by optogenetic stimulation of direct pathway terminals was reduced in SNr neurons of symptomatic mice of both models. A decrease in spontaneous GABA synaptic activity, in particular large-amplitude events, in SNr neurons also was observed. Passive membrane properties of GPe neurons were not different between R6/2 or YAC128 mice and their control littermates. Similarly, the amplitude of GABA responses evoked by activation of indirect pathway MSN terminals and the frequency of spontaneous GABA synaptic activity were similar in HD and control animals. In contrast, the decay time of the evoked GABA response was significantly longer in cells from HD mice. Interestingly, activation of indirect pathway MSNs within the striatum evoked larger-amplitude responses in direct pathway MSNs. Together, these results demonstrate differential alterations in responses evoked by direct and indirect pathway terminals in SNr and GPe leading to striatal output imbalance and motor dysfunction.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTPrevious work on Huntington's disease (HD) focused on striatal medium-sized spiny neurons (MSNs) almost exclusively. Little is known about the effects that alterations in the striatum have on output structures of the direct and indirect pathways, the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) and the external segment of the globus pallidus (GPe), respectively. We combined electrophysiological and optogenetic methods to examine responses evoked by selective activation of terminals of direct and indirect pathway MSNs in SNr and GPe neurons in two mouse models of HD. We show a differential disruption of synaptic communication between the direct and indirect output pathways of the striatum with their target regions leading to an imbalance of striatal output, which will contribute to motor dysfunction.
Contextual Video: Critical Thinking-Based Learning Media in The Implementation of Curriculum 2013
Authors: Hasan Imam
Published: April 2018

This research aims to know the development of critical thinking-based contextual video media on the subject matter of economic issues and how to overcome it, and to find out the feasibility of critical thinking-based contextual video media and student's response towards the critical thinking-based contextual video media. The implementation of curriculum 2013 cannot be separated from the government's expectation that learners have good soft skills.The desired skills are 21st century skills known as 4C: creative, critical thinking, communicative and collaborative. These skills emphasize the soft skills implemented in daily life, learners understand the importance of these skills. The existence of contextual video helps to simplify the process; learners are brought into real life. The learning is more implementative. Critical thinking is the basis of video, the video making process is made in such a way so that the learners understand the material by temselves from analyzing every plot of video. The video material is about economic issues and how to overcome them. This research was Research and Development (R&D). The development cycle used Thiagarajan, Semmel and Semmel’s model or 4-P model that are defining, designing, developing, and deploying. However, this study was only up to the stage of development. The place of this study was in Vocational High School Muhammadiyah 1 Babat. The result of the research stated that based on media feasibility test from the material expert, it is very feasible with the percentage of 80,44% and the media learning expert assessed very well with the percentage of 88,82%. And the result of class X students’ response to media is very good with the percentage 83, 64%. So it is concluded that contentxtual video media is feasible to be used as a learning media.
THERAPY OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Denosumab vs bisphosphonates for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Anastasilakis Athanasios D , Polyzos Stergios A , Makras Polyzois
Published: April 2018

The most widely used medications for the treatment of osteoporosis are currently bisphosphonates (BPs) and denosumab (Dmab). Both are antiresorptives, thus targeting the osteoclast and inhibiting bone resorption. Dmab achieves greater suppression of bone turnover and greater increases of bone mineral density (BMD) at all skeletal sites, both in naïve and pretreated patients. No superiority on fracture risk reduction has been documented so far. In long-term administration, BPs reach a plateau in BMD response after 2–3 years, especially at the hip, while BMD increases progressively for as long as Dmab is administered. Both BPs and Dmab are generally considered safe, although they have been correlated to rare adverse events, such as osteonecrosis of the jaw and atypical femoral fractures. Dmab should be preferred in patients with impaired renal function. BPs are embedded in the bone, from which they are slowly released during bone remodeling, therefore continuing to act for years after their discontinuation. In contrast, Dmab discontinuation fully and rapidly reverses its effects on bone markers and BMD and increases the risk for fractures; therefore, Dmab discontinuation should be discouraged, especially in previously treatment-naïve patients, regardless of the conventional fracture risk. In case of discontinuation, other treatment, mainly BPs, should immediately follow, although the optimal sequential treatment strategy is yet to be defined. Combination of teriparatide with Dmab or zoledronic acid, but not alendronate, provides increased BMD gains at all sites. In conclusion, both BPs and Dmab are safe and efficient therapeutic options although their particularities should be carefully considered in an individual basis.
TERT aberrancies: a screening tool for malignancy in follicular thyroid tumours
Authors: Paulsson Johan O , Mu Ninni , Shabo Ivan , Wang Na , Zedenius Jan , Larsson Catharina , Juhlin C Christofer
Published: April 2018

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations have been linked to adverse clinical parameters in thyroid cancer, butTERT-expressing tumours are not always mutated. Little is known regarding otherTERT-related genetic aberrations. To delineate the role ofTERTgene aberrancies in follicular thyroid tumours, 95 follicular carcinomas (FTCs), 43 follicular adenomas (FTAs) and 33 follicular tumours of uncertain malignant potential (FT-UMPs) were collected. The tumours were assayed forTERTexpression,TERTpromoter mutations,TERTpromoter hypermethylation andTERTgene copy number (CN) alterations and the results were compared to clinical parameters. Cases with mutation, detectable mRNA expression, CN gain or hypermethylation were classified asTERTaberrant, and these aberrancies were regularly found in FTC and FT-UMP but uncommonly found in FTA. In total, 59% FTCs and 63% FT-UMPs exhibited one or more of theseTERTgene aberrancies. Moreover, 24 out of 28 FTCs (86%) withTERTexpression displayed an evidentTERTgene aberration, and statistics showed an increased risk for relapse in FTCs withTERTexpression, CN gain or hypermethylation. We conclude thatTERTexpression in follicular thyroid tumours is coupled to promoter mutations, CN gain and increased promoter methylation. The molecular similarities regardingTERTaberrations between the FTC and FT-UMP groups indicate that a significant subset of FT-UMP cases may display future recurrences.TERTaberrancies are thus promising as future additional markers for determining malignant potential of follicular thyroid tumours.
Seminal fluid metabolome and epididymal changes after antibiotic treatment in mice
Authors: Rosenfeld Cheryl S , Javurek Angela B , Johnson Sarah A , Lei Zhentian , Sumner Lloyd W , Hess Rex A
Published: April 2018

Paternal environment can induce detrimental developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) effects in resulting offspring and even future descendants. Such paternal-induced DOHaD effects might originate from alterations in a possible seminal fluid microbiome (SFM) and composite metabolome. Seminal vesicles secrete a slightly basic product enriched with fructose and other carbohydrates, providing an ideal habitat for microorganisms. Past studies confirm the existence of a SFM that is influenced by genetic and nutritional status. Herein, we sought to determine whether treatment of male mice with a combination of antibiotics designed to target SFM induces metabolic alterations in seminal vesicle gland secretions (seminal fluid) and histopathological changes in testes and epididymides. Adult (10- to 12-week-old) National Institutes of Health (NIH) Swiss males (n = 10 per group) were treated with Clindamycin 0.06 mg/kg day, Unasyn (ampicillin/sulbactam) 40 mg/kg day and Baytril (enrofloxacin) 50 mg/kg day designed to target the primary bacteria within the SFM or saline vehicle alone. Fourteen-day antibiotic treatment of males induced metabolomic changes in seminal vesicles with inosine, xanthine andl-glutamic acid decreased butd-fructose increased in glandular secretions. While spermatogenesis was not affected in treated males, increased number of epididymal tubules showed cribriform growth in this group (7 antibiotic-treated males: 3 saline control males;P = 0.01). Antibiotic-treated males showed more severe cribriform cysts. Current findings suggest antibiotic treatment of male mice results in seminal fluid metabolome and epididymal histopathological alterations. It remains to be determined whether such changes compromise male reproductive function or lead to DOHaD effects in resulting offspring.
CYSTEAMINE IMPROVES THE BACTERICIDAL EFFICACY OF INTRA-CANAL MEDICAMENTS AGAINST ENTEROCOCCUS FAECALIS
Authors: Pandey Sanket Hans , Patni Pallav Mahesh , Jain Pradeep , Sanwatsarkar Gauri , Bardia Chinki
Published: April 2018

Aim. The aim of this study was to compare the antimicrobial efficacy of cysteamine, calcium hydroxide[Ca(OH)2], triple antibiotic paste (TAP), chlorhexidine (CHX) and their combinations against Enterococcus faecalis (E. Faecalis).Methods. The E. Faecalis eradication capacity of cysteamine, Calcium hydroxide (Ca[OH]2), TAP, CHX, and their combinations was tested on E. Faecalis by Kirby Brauer disc diffusion method.Results. Cysteamine in combination with TAP was able to completely eradicate E. Faecalis within 24 hours. Ca(OH)2 was unable to show its effect on E. Faecalis in the given time.Conclusion. Cysteamine increased the E. Faecalis eradicating capacity of TAP and also showed positive results when used in combination with Ca(OH)2, which if used alone was unable to show any action in 24 hours.
From Verbal to Audiovisual Medium: The Case of the Cinematic Adaptation of R. L. Stevenson’s Novel “The Wrong Box”. Part I
Authors: Krūminienė Jadvyga , Višinskaitė Indrė
Published: April 2018

The paper attempts at the analysis of the narrational shifts between verbal and audiovisual mediums on the basis of R. L. Stevenson’s novel The Wrong Box (1989) and its cinematic adaptation under the same title by Bryan Forbes (1966). The authors approach adaptation as a complex phenomenon that experiences the creative tension between preserving fidelity to the source literary text and striving for filmic originality. Similarly to novels, movies represent an act and art of narration but they use different narrative strategies. In film narratives, deep focus, the length and scale of the shots, editing, montage, lighting, sound design, music, human voice etc. accompany the verbal medium. Modelled after literature, movies demonstrate the specific construal narrative components that are combined into coherent cinematic sequences. When transfering R. L. Stevenson’s novel from fictional medium into cinematic medium, Forbes organises the relations of the narrative elements on an intertextual level thus fostering new expressive means. Such practice allows to project the cinematic narrator as a complex construct also given the possibility of being perceived as a speaking persona through an inventive use of intertitles. In fact, the adaptor is caught up in the farcical narrational game, provoking the viewer to actively participate in it.
Derivation of Soil Moisture using Modified Dubois Model with field assisted surface roughness on RISAT-1 data
Authors: Palanisamy Thanabalan , R Vidhya
Published: April 2018

The study discusses the soil moisture estimation using dual polarimetric RISAT-1. The semi-empirical approach of Modified Dubois Model (MDM) derived by (SrinivasaRao 2013) is worked out using (σ ̊HH) and (σ ̊HV) for soil moisture estimation using dual polarimetric backscattering image. IRS LISS IV data have been used to analyze the site suitability of different land use/cover types. The retrieval of backscattering coefficient values (σ ̊) from SAR is the common principle factor for soil moisture estimation. The surface roughness was measured in the selected sample location, for which the same backscattering values derived from the SAR is linearly correlated showing r2 = 0.93. The estimated surface roughness is used for retrieval of dielectric constant using MDM. The dielectric constant derived from MDM in combination with the Topps model proposed by (Topp 1980), is used to derive satellite-based soil moisture estimation. Linear regression analysis was performed, and the soil moisture derived from SAR are well correlated with the volumetric soil moisture showing the value of r2 = 0.63.
An Assessment Method for Debris Flow Dam Formation in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Kun-Ting , Lin Chia-Hsing , Chen Xiao-Qing , Hu Gui-Sheng , Guo Xiao-Jun , Shieh Chjeng-Lun
Published: April 2018

Debris flows in tributaries rush into and block the main branches of rivers and often result in serious hazards. Dam failures cause large floods in the downstream area and can lead to fatalities and property damage. This study proposes an assessment method to evaluate the formation of a debris flow dam, which includes two conditions: (1) the sediment transported by the debris flow must reach across the river; and (2) the thickness of the deposit by the debris flow must be higher than the in situ water depth. This methodology was used to study the case of a debris flow dam caused by debris flow across the Er River in Taiwan, which blocked the Chishan River and led to the formation of the Namasha debris flow dam. This methodology can also be applied to identify the formation of debris flow dams.
Research of behaviors of continuous GNSS station by signal analysis methods
Authors: Oktar Osman , Erdoğan Hediye
Published: April 2018

Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) networks consisting of multiple GNSS systems have been set up and operating in many developed countries. In Turkey, CORS-TR has been operating. The aim of CORS-TR is a fast, correct, and reliable collection of all kinds of geographic data, thus, speeding up the activities of cadastre, assuring organized urbanization, constituting the spatial infrastructure for relevant works of e-government, and monitoring plate tectonics. Therefore, in this paper, we investigated 788 days of linear and periodic of AKHR, BEYS, CIHA, KAMN, YUNA, AKSI and KNYA CORS-TR stations by linear trend analysis and Wavelet Transform in located in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. As a result of trend analyses of time series, it was determined that except a single station (KAMN), other stations were moving in the Southwest direction (17.78 mm/year). This finding is consistent with the region’s tectonic plate movements. In the periodical analyses, stations’ daily, monthly, seasonal, annual and even biennial movements resulting from atmospheric and hydrologic loading, climatic and other effects were revealed. Moreover, Detail (D) component, which protects the largest percentage of energy, was determined by calculating the energy spectrum. Energies of detail components are similar in horizontal, and especially D7-D8 have the highest energy. However, the components obtained the maximum energy was varied in Up coordinate time series. These results indicate that stations of CORS-TR network located in Central Anatolia were rather stable and able to be providing reliable, accurate and continuous data for national and international studies to be conducted in many fields.
The Relationship between Mechanical Properties and Gradual Deterioration of Microstructures of Rock Mass Subject to Freeze-thaw Cycles
Authors: Jiang Haibo
Published: April 2018

Under freeze-thaw cycles, the relationship between rock microstructure deterioration and its macroscopic mechanical characteristics has drawn extensive attention from engineers. With the objective to incorporate freeze-thaw cycle experiment into headrace tunnel engineering, in the present study two groups of andesite rock samples in different states are tested under the conditions of the lowest freezing temperature of –40 ℃ and the thawing temperature of 20 ℃. Damage detection was performed by magnetic resonance imaging for the interior microstructure of rock samples subject to different freeze-thaw cycles, and the relationship between the sample mechanical properties and gradual deterioration of rock microstructures was discussed. The results demonstrate evident influence of freeze-thaw cycle on the damage and deterioration of internal pore structure in andesite, and the rock uniaxial compressive strength and elasticity modulus exhibit a decreasing trend with the increase of freeze-thaw cycles. After 40 cycles, the strength of naturally saturated rock samples decreases by 39.4% (equivalent to 69.4 MPa) and the elasticity modulus drops by 47.46% (equivalent to 3.27 GPa). For rock samples saturated by vacuum, 40 freeze-thaw cycles lead to a decrease of 36.86% (equivalent to 58.2 MPa) in rock strength and a drop of 44.85% (equivalent to 2.83 GPa) in elasticity modulus. Therefore, the test results quantitatively elucidate the substantial influence of freeze-thaw cycle on the damage and deterioration of internal structure in andesite.
Ethics as a true revolution, another way to read Levinas or beyond
Authors: Ulate Esteban J. Beltrán , Timm de souza Ricardo
Published: April 2018

This paper criticizes social revolution, by focusing on the reconfiguration of the notion from an ethical point of view. It is divided in three sections: (i) Brother’s death; (ii) Remove the sandals; (iii) Thou wilt be as many as the stars. Each section contains Levinas’s thought as the main axis. Although it is well known that Levinas does not develop a theory of revolution, it is possible to find a fruitful analysis in light of his meditations about politics and ethics.
Victor Klemperer: a linguagem do mal e a nazificação da sociedade alemã
Authors: Dos Santos Marcelo Leandro
Published: April 2018

Este artigo contextualiza o nazismo como projeto de degradação da multiplicidade humana a partir da instrumentalização da língua alemã e consequentemente da linguagem como experiência humana. Tal contextualização se inicia apresentando os projetos amplamente conhecidos do nazismo, que se dão à sombra de Auschwitz, para, em seguida, partir à análise das observações de Victor Klemperer sobre a aplicação da LTI (Lingua Tertii Imperii) na sociedade alemã no período que envolveu o entreguerras e o final da Segunda Guerra Mundial, precisamente na cidade de Dresden, onde Klemperer viveu e repensou sua condição judaica. Por meio do uso estratégico da linguagem, o nazismo interveio nos hábitos da sociedade alemã, o que implicou a adesão popular à ideologia do Terceiro Reich, bem como provocou a legitimação da reprodução do mal naquela sociedade, enquanto projeto pervertido de cidadania. Disso resulta uma compreensão biopolítica da linguagem, na medida em que se reconhece o nazismo como doutrina do fanatismo.
Hans Vaihinger e a teoria da aparência conscientemente intencionada de Nietzsche
Authors: Vecchia Ricardo Bazilio Dalla
Published: April 2018

O presente artigo objetiva discutir a interpretação da filosofia de Nietzsche empreendida por Hans Vaihinger (1852-1933) na obra Philosophie des Als Ob (1911). De acordo com Vaihinger, ao longo de sua obra Nietzsche desenvolve uma “teoria da aparência valor das ficções frente à vida prática, na trilha deixada por Kant e Lange. Em virtude disso, a filosofia de Nietzsche pode ser considerada como o esboço da metafísica do “como se”, postura ficcionalista e pragmática desenvolvida por Vaihinger.
Idealismo Realista ou Realismo Idealista: Hegel & Marx
Authors: Bavaresco Agemir
Published: April 2018

O tema do idealismo e realismo é abordado por Hegel e Marx de um modo específico. De um lado, Hegel entende que toda a verdadeira filosofia é um idealismo. De outro, Marx defende que o verdadeiro pensamento inicia com o realismo. Nós entendemos que as abordagens não são excludentes, pois, trata-se de pontos de partida diferentes. Os diagnósticos têm na contradição o motor da história; e na dialética o método de descrever e analisar o real. A partir das categorias da finitude e infinitude de Hegel e da categoria do fetichismo de Marx estabelecemos aproximações e diferenças entre os dois autores.