bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KAJIAN METODE PERSALINAN NORMAL DENGAN BANTUAN CERMIN PADA PERSALINAN KALA II IBU PRIMIGRAVIDA
Authors: Rokhamah Rokhamah
Published: August 2019

The success of labor is influenced by several factors, namely maternal factors (power, passage, psychology), fetal factors (placenta) and helping factors. Using mirror aids in the process of progress in labor at a second time can increase maternal motivation psychologically and emotionally, this preventing and or decreasing pathological labor prevalence. The purpose of this study was determining the difference in time in mothers who had labor in the second time using a mirror and who did not use a mirror. The design of this study used True - experiment with post test only Control design, the sample of study were 40 physiologically 20 primigraphic delivery mothers who were treated, 20 were not treated and taken randomly. The purpose of this study was determining the time difference in labor mothers when second uses a mirror and does not use a mirror. Observation data collection techniques, it used unpaired T test. This research was conducted in 2018 in the Poncokusumo Malang Health Center. The results showed that labor with the help of a mirror could accelerate the second stage of labor in primigravida mothers. This is evidenced by the average time used by maternity in group I (using mirrors) is 7.05 minutes and the average time used by group II maternity women (without using a mirror) is 16.15 minute . The use of a mirror aid can be used as an instrument complement labor in order to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality in Indonesia.
MODEL STRATEGI MANAJEMEN KEBIJAKAN PUBLIK SEKTOR PASAR TRADISIONAL UNTUK PENINGKATAN PENDAPATAN ASLI DAERAH DI KABUPATEN BENGKAYANG KALIMANTAN BARAT
Authors: Yulita Yulita , Gunawan Cakti Indra
Published: August 2019

Kebijakan publik sektor pasar tradisional saat ini menjadi elemen penting untuk upaya peningkatan pendapatan asli daerah (PAD). Dampak dari PAD akan mendorong kesejahteraan masyarakat dan menguatkan keuangan daerah. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah 1) Menganalisis manajemen strategi kebijakan publik sektor pasar tradisional yang telah dilakukaan oleh Pemerintah Kabupaten Bengkayang Kalimantan Barat 2) Mengeksplorasi usulan model manajemen strategi yang efisien untuk peningkatan PAD di kabupaten Bengkayang. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif dengan alat analis SWOT. Temuan penlitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kebiakan publik sektor pasar tradisional di kabupaten Bengkayang masih belum mampu memberikan kontribusi peningkatan PAD yang signifikan. Manajemen strategi yang digunakan selama ini masih bersifat non-technology based.. Dengan usulan model manajemen strategi  integrated market management strartegic akan menjadi salah satu solusi dalam peningkatan PAD di kabupaten Bengkayang.
IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN PEMERINTAH TENTANG STRATEGI NASIONAL PENCEGAHAN DAN PEMBERANTASAN KORUPSI DI LEMBAGA PEMERINTAHAN DAERAH (STUDI DI PEMERINTAH KABUPATEN PROBOLINGGO)
Authors: Firdausi Firman , Romi A.S M.N
Published: August 2019

Abstract: Corruption is one of extraordinary crimes. The Perception Index of corrpution at the 2018 has improved performance. This is action was succeded from the government because made a strategic plan about prevention and eradication of corruption. This program is formulated provision to the president's instructions and presidential regulations which regulate the focus of prevention and action. The implementation of the policy is not fully smooth, there are factors that influence. This study uses juridical-empirical methods with qualitative technic. The results of the study show that there are several important factors that become obstacles in implementation, one of which is communication. Many of perceptions in this policy are vague in the implementation and reporting of state finances.

Keywords: Public Policy; Corruption; Local Governtment

Abstrak: Korupsi merupakan jenis kejahatan luar biasa. Negara Indonesia secara Indeks Persepsi Korupsi tahun 2018 memiliki peningkatan prestasi. Hal ini tidak terlepas dari peran pemerintah yang membuat rencana strategi dalam pencegahan dan pemberantasan korupsi. Program pemerintah ini dirumuskan dan dituangkan dalam instuksi presiden dan peraturan presiden yang mengatur fokus pencegahan dan aksinya. Pelaksanaan kebijakan tidak sepenuhnya berjalan lancar, terdapat beberapa faktor yang dalam realita mempengaruhi pelaksanaan tersebut. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode yuridis empiris dengan metode kualitatif. Hasil penelitian diketahui bahwa terdapat beberapa faktor penting yang menjadi kendala dalam pelaksanaan, salah satunya adalah indikator komunikasi. Banyaknya persepsi dalam kebijakan ini menjadi biasnya pelaksanaan dan pelaporan tentang keuangan negara.

Kata Kunci: Kebijakan Publik; Korupsi; Pemerintah Daerah
PENGEMBANGAN KAPASITAS KELEMBAGAAN (CAPACITY BUILDING) DALAM UPAYA MENINGKATKAN KINERJA PEGAWAI (STUDI PADA KANTOR PELAYANAN PERBENDAHARAAN NEGARA/KPPN KUDUS)
Authors: Lestari Asih Widi , Wicaksono Dhika Bagus
Published: August 2019

Abstract: The purpose of this research is to describe and analyze capacity building in order to improve the employee performance at KPPN Kudus Regency, The restrictingfactors ofcapacity building in order to improve the employee performance at KPPN Kudus Regency.This research uses descriptive research methods with qualitative approaches.The result of research iscapacity building in order to improve employee performance in KPPN Kudus is strong through leadership that done by the head of KPPN Kudus,the program increased discipline that is just right from the Ministry of Finance in improving discipline employees through the giving of reward and punishmen, and facilities that are in KPPN Kudus that was already complete and comfortable.The restricting factors of capacity building in order to improve the employee performance at KPPN Kudus Regency is the existence of some employees who don't know the development of rules and some employees were not disciplined.

Keywords: Development; Institutional Capacity; Employee Performance

Abstrak: Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mendiskripsikan dan menganalisis Pengembangan Kapasitas (Capacity Building) Kelembagaan dalam Upaya Meningkatkan Kinerja Pegawai di Kantor Pelayanan Perbendaharaan Negara/KPPN Kabupaten Kudus, Faktor penghambat Pengembangan Kapasitas (Capacity Building) Kelembagaan dalam Upaya Meningkatkan Kinerja Pegawai di Kantor Pelayanan Perbendaharaan Negara/KPPN Kabupaten Kudus. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Hasil dari penelitian adalah upaya pengembangan kapasitas kelembagaan (capacity building) dalam meningkatkan kinerja pegawai di Kantor Pelayanan Perbendaharaan Negara/KPPN Kabupaten Kudus dirasa sudah baik melalui kepemimpinan yang dilakukan oleh Kepala KPPN Kudus, program peningkatan kedisiplinan yang sudah tepat dari Kementerian Keuangan dalam meningkatkan kedisiplinan pegawai melalui pemberian reward dan punishment, dan fasilitas yang ada di KPPN Kudus yang sudah lengkap dan nyaman. Adapun faktor penghambat pengembangan kapasitas kelembagaan (capacity building) dalam upaya meningkatkan kinerja pegawai di Kantor Pelayanan Perbendaharaan Negara/KPPN Kabupaten Kudus adalah adanya beberapa pegawai yang tidak mengetahui perkembangan aturan dan beberapa pegawai tidak disiplin.

Kata Kunci: Pengembangan; Kapasitas Kelembagaan; Kinerja Pegawai
PELAYANAN PUBLIK DINAS PENANAMAN MODAL DAN PELAYANAN TERPADU SATU PINTU (DPMPTSP) KABUPATEN PONOROGO DENGAN SIJITU (SISTEM INFORMASI PERIZINAN TERPADU)
Authors: Bilyastuti Mai Puspadyna
Published: August 2019

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to describe and analyze the implementation of DPMPTSP Ponorogo Regency public services with SIJITU. The research method used is qualitative research, data collection techniques through interviews, documentation, and observation. The results showed that the implementation of online services based online with SIJITU had not run optimally as seen from the fact that there were not many people who used the online-based licensing service, because there were several barriers including ignorance of the public about the online licensing system. the internet access network has not fully supported (in some areas of Ponorogo Regency, especially remote areas, internet access is still difficult), and the limited human resources of DPMPTSP who have expertise in informatics and other supporting technical fields.

Keywords: Public Service; integrated licensing

Abstrak: Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mendiskripsikan dan menganalisis pelaksanaan pelayanan publik DPMPTSP Kabupaten Ponorogo dengan SIJITU. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian kualitatif, teknik pengumpulan data melalui wawancara, dokumentasi, dan observasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pelaksanaan pelayanan publik berbasis online dengan SIJITU belum berjalan secara maksimal terlihat dari belum banyaknya masyarakat yang memanfaatkan pelayanan perizinan berbasis online tersebut, karena adanya beberapa hambatan, antara lain ketidaktahuan masyarakat akan adanya sistem perizinan online, masyarakat belum memahami bagaimana cara menggunakan aplikasi online tersebut, akses jaringan internet belum sepenuhnya mendukung (di beberapa kawasan Kabupaten Ponorogo terutama daerah pelosok akses jaringan internet masih sulit), serta terbatasnya SDM DPMPTSP yang memiliki keahlian di bidang informatika dan bidang-bidang teknis pendukung lainnya.

Kata kunci: Pelayanan Publik; Perizinan Terpadu
Persepsi dan Faktor Dominan Determinan Minat Pelaku Usaha Mikro Kecil Muslim Pengguna Jasa Pelepas Uang terhadap Jasa Lembaga Keuangan Mikro Syariah
Authors: Rahmah Fadhlilah Penny
Published: August 2019

This study aim is to determine the perceptions and interests of Micro and Small Business Enterprises (MSEs) of small micro business users of the Muslim money lenders against Islamic Microfinance institution services. To view and analyze the five factors of interest used in personal, environment, convenience, service, and debt. Based on the five factors mentioned, the dominant factor that formed the interest will be distinguished. This research was conducted in Bogor City Walk with the sample of 57 respondents. Data was collected by questionnaire survey using the tools that have been tested for validity and reliability. Analysis of study factors to see the interest is done by using factor analysis while to view the perception used descriptive statistik. The results of the factor analysis showed interest in the perpetrator obtained the conclusion that Muslim enterprises used money lenders service users against the Islamic financial services are caused by sosial factors : the magnitude of motivation, ease the requirements, and strategic location.
Intervensi Dengan Pendekatan Cognitive Behavior Therapy untuk Mengurangi Diabetes-Related Distress pada Lanjut Usia dengan Penyakit Diabetes Mellitus Tipe 1 dan Tipe 2
Authors: Kusristanti Chandradewi , Utoyo Lubis Dharmayati
Published: August 2019

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the most frequent disorders distributed globally. Many drugs or regimens being used, complication risks, and various factors may induce diabetes-related distress in DM patients. Many studies have found that the presence of diabetes-related distress may provide negative impacts to patients, physically and psychologically. In older  patients, the negative impacts may be worsened by the characteristics of older individuals. Having acknowledged those negative impacts to older DM patients, this study was aimed to learn the influence of cognitive behavior therapy approach to reduce diabetes-related distress in older DM patients. Two participants were selected in this study, both are older   adults with high level of diabetes-related distress. All participants experienced decreased level of diabetes-related distress from their participation in this intervention, as shown during interview, observation, and assessment using PAID (Problem Areas In Diabetes) questionnaire. All participants were able to practice the respective techniques. All participants also understand that the therapeutic success is determined by their independence and their willingness to change by practicing it in daily life.
Hubungan Pengetahuan dengan Perilaku Pencegahan Penyakit Menular Seksual (PMS) melalui Penggunaan Kondom pada Pekerja Seks Komersial (PSK) di Wilayah Mangga Besar Jakarta Pusat Tahun 2014
Authors: Syam Edward
Published: August 2019

PSK is is one of the most vulnerable groups are infected with sexually transmitted diseases (STDS). The Mangga Besar of Central Jakarta  is a spread of PSK and place a night club which allows the occurrence of free sex behaviour and   ultimately at   risk against STDS.  The   purpose   of this research is to know the relationship of knowledge with the behavior prevention of STDS on commercial sex workers (PSK) in The Mangga Besar of  Central  Jakarta  in  2014. The  method  in  this  research is a survey that uses Cross-sectional method. The subjects in the research were 253 workers of   commercial   sex   in   The   Mangga   Besar   of   Central   Jakarta. Data analysis use Chi Square test. The results of the research is known significant (p value 0.011 and OR value 3.736) 60.7% of commercial sex workers who perform preventive  of  STDS  as  well.  This  study is health counselling about PMS, increasing confidence the PSK,   post   messages about health prevention of STDS, and support health workers against commercial sex workers.
Kecerdasan Budaya dan Gaya Belajar Mahasiswa yang Merantau di DKI Jakarta
Authors: Triman Arif , Abdillah Abdillah
Published: August 2019

Indonesia is a developing country with an uneven educational infrastructure development. It impacts the number of students from rural areas to big cities to get a decent education. Many of those students are experiencing difficulties when entering a new culture, thus disrupting their adjustment, especially in learning styles. The purpose of this study is to investigate any possible correlation between cultural intelligence and Grasha learning style. Participants in this study were 121 students in DKI Jakarta. Cultural Intelligence Scale and Grasha-Riecment Learning Scale Style were used as instruments in this study. Using regression analysis, it was found that 2 of 6 learning style (Collaborative learning style and Independent learning style) were found to have significant role in Cultural Intelligents.
Perbedaan Analisis Sefalometri Skeletal Sebelum dan Sesudah Perawatan Alat Myofunctional pada Pasien Maloklusi Dentoskeletal Kelas II Divisi I dalam Masa Pertumbuhan dengan Metode Steiner
Authors: Ahmad Riyadi Nugroho
Published: August 2019

The aim of orthodontics treatment is normalization of teeth position in three planes, using various orthodontics appliance to reach the chepalometric standar and normal occlusion. Orthodontic treatment for dentoskeletal class II division 1 malocclusion in growing patients using myofunctional appliance may correct anteroposterior planes of mandibula. This study was a descriptive retrospective analytic study to look at the success of Orthodontic treatment for dentoskeletal class II division 1 in growing patients with myofunctional appliance using chepalometrics analysis Steiner value. The sample used in this study is chepalogram radiographic from patient with dentoskeletal class II division 1 malocclusion in growing patients before and after using myofunctional appliance in PPDGS orthodontics Clinic of Padjadjaran University. Statistic analysis were performed with pair t-test and Wilcoxon. Based on this study, it is concluded that orthodontic treatment with myofunctional appliance such as activator and twin block in growing patient with dentoskeletal class II division 1 malocclusion shows significant changes and compatibility with the normal criteria.
Differences in Leadership Behaviour between Expatriates and Local Managers as Perceived by Their Indonesian Subordinates
Authors: Deviastri Lily
Published: August 2019

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui adanya perbedaan perilaku kepemimpinan  antara  ekspatriat  dan  manajer  lokal  dilihat  dari  sudut pandang  bawahan  mereka  yang  berkewarganegaraan  Indonesia.  Data diambil dari 13 perusahaan multinasional dan organisasi non pemerintah skala internasional di Jakarta. Hasil yang diperoleh mengindikasikan bahwa terdapat perbedaan yang signifikan antara dua kategori manajer yang mempengaruhi cara mereka menjelaskan peran kepada kelompok, melakukan persuasi, mentoleransi ketidakjelasan serta memandang bentuk kenyamanan dan status.
Penatalaksanaan Perawatan Hiperpigmentasi Pada Gingiva Dengan Metode Scrapping Menggunakan Pisau Bedah: Studi Kasus
Authors: Nurniza Nita , Hendiani Ina , Rusyanti Yanti , Susanto Agus
Published: August 2019

Hyperpigmentation is a disorder of the gingiva caused by various factors including heredity, disease, drugs, smoking habits. This can occur because of the accumulation of melanin pigment in the basal gingival layer resulting in a brownish or blackish color on the surface of the gingiva which when viewed aesthetically is not good because it is not like the normal gingival color of coral pink. Objective: to get the gingival color back to normal, namely coral pink. Management in cases of pigmentation using the surgical method by scrapping using a scalpel No.15. In this study there were 3 cases, namely, case 1, a 20-year-old female patient had genetic or genetic hyperpigmentation. Case 2, a 27-year-old male patient had genetic or genetic hyperpigmentation. Case 3, a 24-year-old female patient had gingival pigmentation due to smoking habits. The results of surgical management in all three cases, namely the gingival depigmentation method by scrapping gave a good esetetic result, but for gingival hyperpigmentation in cases 1 and 2 it could recur later.
Diet and Oxidative Status. The Dietary Pattern and Urinary 8-Isoprostane in Healthy Spanish Women
Authors: Ruiz Nuria , Segarra Ana Belén , Lara Luis , Ramírez-Sánchez Manuel , Prieto Isabel
Published: August 2019

The Mediterranean diet is associated with a low incidence of physiologic and metabolic non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, obesity, and insulin resistance. These chronic diseases are closely related to oxidative status, which is determined by the balance between oxidant and antioxidant levels. The Mediterranean diet is rich in foods with important antioxidant properties, such as fruits and extra virgin olive oil. The aim of this work was to establish the relationship between dietary patterns, the total intake of polyphenols, and the levels of 8-isoprostanes in urine, as a marker of lipid peroxidation, in a group of healthy Spanish women. The main sources of dietary polyphenols were fruits, vegetables, pulses, nuts, and extra virgin olive oil. There was a significant and positive correlation between the estimated intake of polyphenols, total polyphenols excreted in urine, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and the intake of specific food groups. A positive correlation was established between the total polyphenols in urine and the intake of raw extra virgin olive oil. However, a negative correlation was established between the amount of 8-isoprostanes in urine, total intake of polyphenols, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and the intake of fruits and nuts. These results indicate an association between oxidative status and the intake of foods that are typical of the Mediterranean diet, in healthy women. Furthermore, the results demonstrate the use of urine 8-isoprostanes as a marker of adherence to the Mediterranean diet.
Application of Electrical Network Frequency of Digital Recordings for Location-Stamp Verification
Authors: Sarkar Mrinmoy , Chowdhury Dhiman , Shahnaz Celia , Fattah Shaikh Anowarul
Published: August 2019

Electrical network frequency (ENF) is a signature of a power distribution grid. It represents the deviation from the nominal frequency (50 or 60 Hz) of a power system network. The variations in ENF sequences within a grid are subject to load fluctuations within that particular grid. These ENF variations are inherently located in a multimedia signal, which is recorded close to the grid or directly from the mains power line. Thus, the specific location of a recording can be identified by analyzing the ENF sequences of the multimedia signal in absence of the concurrent power signal. In this article, a novel approach to location-stamp authentication based on ENF sequences of digital recordings is presented. ENF patterns are extracted from a number of power and audio signals recorded in different grid locations across the world. The extracted ENF signals are decomposed into low outliers and high outliers frequency segments and potential feature vectors are determined for these ENF segments by statistical and signal processing analysis. Then, a multi-class support vector machine (SVM) classification model is developed to verify the location-stamp information of the recordings. The performance evaluations corroborate the efficacy of the proposed framework.
Effect of Curing Conditions on Microstructure and Pore-Structure of Brown Coal Fly Ash Geopolymers
Authors: Gunasekara Chamila , Dirgantara Rahmat , Law David W. , Setunge Sujeeva
Published: August 2019

This study reports the effect of heat curing at 120 °C on the geopolymeric reaction and strength evolution in brown coal fly ash based geopolymer mortar and concrete. Moreover, an examination of this temperature profile of large size geopolymer concrete specimens is also reported. The specimen temperature and size were observed to influence the conversion from the glassy (amorphous) phases to the crystalline phases and the microstructure development of the geopolymer. The temperature profile could be divided into three principal stages which correlated well with the proposed reaction mechanism for class F fly ash geopolymers. The geopolymerisation progressed more rapidly for the mortar specimens than the concrete specimens with 12 to 14 h providing an optimum curing time for the 50 mm mortar cubes and 24 h being the optimum time for the 100 mm concrete cubes. The 50 mm and 100 mm concrete specimens’ compressive strengths in excess of 30 MPa could be obtained at 7 days. The structural integrity was not achieved at the center of 200 mm and 300 mm concrete specimens following 24 h curing at 120 °C. Hence, the optimal curing time required to achieve the best compressive strength for brown coal geopolymer was identified as being dependent on the specimen size.
Measuring the Behavioral Response to Spatial Audio within a Multi-Modal Virtual Reality Environment in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Johnston Daniel , Egermann Hauke , Kearney Gavin
Published: August 2019

Virtual Reality (VR) has been an active area of research in the development of interactive interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) for over two decades. These immersive environments create a safe platform in which therapy can address the core symptoms associated with this condition. Recent advancements in spatial audio rendering techniques for VR now allow for the creation of realistic audio environments that accurately match their visual counterparts. However, reported auditory processing impairments associated with autism may affect how an individual interacts with their virtual therapy application. This study aims to investigate if these difficulties in processing audio information would directly impact how individuals with autism interact with a presented virtual spatial audio environment. Two experiments were conducted with participants diagnosed with ASD (n = 29) that compared: (1) behavioral reaction between spatialized and non-spatialized audio; and (2) the effect of background noise on participant interaction. Participants listening to binaural-based spatial audio showed higher spatial attention towards target auditory events. In addition, the amount of competing background audio was reported to influence spatial attention and interaction. These findings suggest that despite associated sensory processing difficulties, those with ASD can correctly decode the auditory cues simulated in current spatial audio rendering techniques.
Temporally and Spatially Resolved Emission Spectroscopy of Hydrogen, Cyanide and Carbon in Laser-Induced Plasma
Authors: Parigger Christian G. , Helstern Christopher M. , Gautam Ghaneshwar
Published: August 2019

In this study, we examine the atomic and molecular signatures in laser-induced plasma. Abel inversions of measured line-of-sight data reveal insight into the radial plasma distribution. Laser-plasma is generated with 6 ns, Q-switched Nd:YAG radiation with energies in the range of 100 to 800 mJ. Temporally- and spatially-resolved emission spectroscopy investigates expansion dynamics. Specific interests include atomic hydrogen (H) and cyanide (CN). Atomic hydrogen spectra indicate axisymmetric shell structures and isentropic expansion of the plasma kernel. The recombination radiation of CN emanates within the first 100 nanoseconds for laser-induced breakdown in a 1:1 mole ratio CO2:N2 gas mixture. CN excitation temperatures are determined from fitting recorded and computed spectra. Chemical equilibrium mole fractions of CN are computed for air and the CO2:N2 gas mixture. Measurements utilize a 0.64-m Czerny–Turner type spectrometer and an intensified charge-coupled device.
Bioactivities and Medicinal Value of Solanesol and Its Accumulation, Extraction Technology, and Determination Methods
Authors: Yan Ning , Liu Yanhua , Liu Linqing , Du Yongmei , Liu Xinmin , Zhang Hongbo , Zhang Zhongfeng
Published: August 2019

Solanesol, an aliphatic terpene alcohol composed of nine isoprene units, is mainly found in solanaceous plants. Particularly, tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), belonging to the Solanaceae family, is the richest plant source of solanesol, and its leaves have been regarded as the ideal material for solanesol extraction. Since the discovery of solanesol in tobacco, significant progress has been achieved in research on solanesol’s bioactivities, medicinal value, accumulation, extraction technology, and determination methods. Solanesol possesses strong free radical absorption ability and antioxidant activity owing to the presence of several non-conjugated double bonds. Notably, solanesol’s anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antimicrobial activities have been previously demonstrated. Solanesol is a key intermediate in the synthesis of coenzyme Q10, vitamin K2, and the anticancer agent synergiser N-solanesyl-N,N′-bis(3,4-dimethoxybenzyl) ethylenediamine. Other applications of solanesol include solanesol derivative micelles for hydrophobic drug delivery, solanesol-derived scaffolds for bioactive peptide multimerization, and solanesol-anchored DNA for mediating vesicle fusion. Solanesol accumulation in plants is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, including biotic stresses caused by pathogen infections, temperature, illumination, and agronomic measures. Seven extraction technologies and seven determination methods of solanesol are also systematically summarized in the present review. This review can serve as a reference for solanesol’s comprehensive application.
Multimodal Device for Real-Time Monitoring of Skin Oxygen Saturation and Microcirculation Function
Authors: Rubins Uldis , Marcinkevics Zbignevs , Cimurs Janis , Saknite Inga , Kviesis-Kipge Edgars , Grabovskis Andris
Published: August 2019

The present study introduces a recently developed compact hybrid device for real-time monitoring of skin oxygen saturation and temperature distribution. The prototype involves a snapshot hyperspectral camera, multi-wavelength illuminator, thermal camera, and built-in computer with custom-developed software. To validate this device in-vivo we performed upper arm vascular occlusion on eight healthy volunteers. Palm skin oxygen saturation maps were analyzed in real-time using k-means segmentation algorithm and two-layer optical diffuse model. The prototype system demonstrated a satisfying performance of skin hyperspectral measurements in the spectral range of 507–625 nm. The results confirmed the reliability of the proposed system for in-vivo assessment of skin hemoglobin saturation with oxygen and microcirculation.
Critical Prognostic Parameters in the Anatomic Pathology Reporting of Differentiated Follicular Cell-Derived Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Bin , Ghossein Ronald
Published: August 2019

In the past decades, pathology reporting on thyroid carcinoma has evolved from a narrative approach to structured synoptic reports. Many histologic variables are present in the current synoptic reports that are crucial elements for initial risk stratification and clinical management. In this review, we compare and summarize the key prognostic pathologic characteristics utilized by the most influential clinical and pathologic guidelines from the American Thyroid Association (ATA), the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), the current World Health Organization (WHO) classification of endocrine tumors (fourth edition), the current American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system (eighth edition), the College of American Pathologists (CAP) protocol, and the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR) dataset. The aim is to provide a comprehensive review focused on the definitions and prognostic impacts of these crucial pathologic parameters.
HMGA1 Modulates Gene Transcription Sustaining a Tumor Signalling Pathway Acting on the Epigenetic Status of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Penzo Carlotta , Arnoldo Laura , Pegoraro Silvia , Petrosino Sara , Ros Gloria , Zanin Rossella , Wiśniewski Jacek R. , Manfioletti Guidalberto , Sgarra Riccardo
Published: August 2019

Chromatin accessibility plays a critical factor in regulating gene expression in cancer cells. Several factors, including the High Mobility Group A (HMGA) family members, are known to participate directly in chromatin relaxation and transcriptional activation. The HMGA1 oncogene encodes an architectural chromatin transcription factor that alters DNA structure and interacts with transcription factors favouring their landing onto transcription regulatory sequences. Here, we provide evidence of an additional mechanism exploited by HMGA1 to modulate transcription. We demonstrate that, in a triple-negative breast cancer cellular model, HMGA1 sustains the action of epigenetic modifiers and in particular it positively influences both histone H3S10 phosphorylation by ribosomal protein S6 kinase alpha-3 (RSK2) and histone H2BK5 acetylation by CREB-binding protein (CBP). HMGA1, RSK2, and CBP control the expression of a set of genes involved in tumor progression and epithelial to mesenchymal transition. These results suggest that HMGA1 has an effect on the epigenetic status of cancer cells and that it could be exploited as a responsiveness predictor for epigenetic therapies in triple-negative breast cancers.
Vesicular-Bound HLA-G as a Predictive Marker for Disease Progression in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Schwich Esther , Rebmann Vera , Horn Peter A. , Celik Alexander A. , Bade-Döding Christina , Kimmig Rainer , Kasimir-Bauer Sabine , Buderath Paul
Published: August 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EV) and their tumor-supporting cargos provide a promising translational potential in liquid biopsies for risk assessment of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients frequently relapsing, despite initial complete therapy responses. As the immune checkpoint molecule HLA-G, which is operative in immune-escape, can be released by EV, we evaluate the abundance of EV and its vesicular-bound amount of HLA-G (HLA-GEV) as a biomarker in EOC. After enrichment of EV from plasma samples, we determined the EV particle number and amount of HLA-GEV by nanoparticle tracking analysis or ELISA. The association of results with the clinical status/outcome revealed that both, EV particle number and HLA-GEV were significantly elevated in EOC patients, compared to healthy females. However, elevated levels of HLA-GEV, but not EV numbers, were exclusively associated with a disadvantageous clinical status/outcome, including residual tumor, presence of circulating tumor cells, and disease progression. High HLA-GEV status was an independent predictor of progression, besides residual tumor burden and platinum-sensitivity. Especially among patients without residual tumor burden or with platinum-sensitivity, HLA-GEV identified patients with high risk of progression. Thus, this study highlights HLA-GEV as a potential novel biomarker for risk assessment of EOC patients with a rather beneficial prognosis defined by platinum-sensitivity or lack of residual tumor burden.
Molecular Mechanisms Associated with ROR1-Mediated Drug Resistance: Crosstalk with Hippo-YAP/TAZ and BMI-1 Pathways
Authors: Karvonen Hanna , Barker Harlan , Kaleva Laura , Niininen Wilhelmiina , Ungureanu Daniela
Published: August 2019

Signaling via the Wnt-related receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) triggers tumorigenic features associated with cancer stem cells (CSCs) and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), while aberrant expression of ROR1 is strongly linked to advanced disease progression and chemoresistance. Several recent studies have shown that Wnt5a binding to ROR1 promotes oncogenic signaling by activating multiple pathways such as RhoA/Rac1 GTPases and PI3K/AKT, which in turn could induce transcriptional coactivator YAP/TAZ or polycomb complex protein BMI-1 signaling, respectively, to sustain stemness, metastasis and ultimately drug-resistance. These data point towards a new feedback loop during cancer development, linking Wnt5a-ROR1 signaling activation to YAP/TAZ or BMI-1 upregulation that could play an important role in disease progression and treatment resistance. This review focuses on the crosstalk between Wnt5a-ROR1 and YAP/TAZ or the BMI-1 signaling network, together with the current advancements in targeted strategies for ROR1-positive cancers.
Dynamics of Dislocations in Smectic A Liquid Crystals Doped with Nanoparticles
Authors: Oswald Patrick
Published: August 2019

Edge dislocations are linear defects that locally break the positional order of the layers in smectic A liquid crystals. As in usual solids, these defects play a central role for explaining the plastic properties of the smectic A phase. This work focuses on the dynamical properties of dislocations in bulk samples prepared between two glass plates and in free-standing films. The emphasis will be put on the measurement of the mobility of edge dislocations in liquid crystals either pure or doped with nanoparticles. The experimental results will be compared to the existing models.
Exergy Analysis of Fluidized Desiccant Cooling System
Authors: Rogala Zbigniew , Kolasiński Piotr
Published: August 2019

One of the main challenges in the design and implementation of fluidized desiccant cooling (FDC) systems is increasing their low COP (coefficient of performance). Exergy analysis is one of the tools especially suitable for improvement and optimization of FDC systems. The improvement of performance is impossible as long as the main sources of exergy destruction are not identified and evaluated. In this paper, the exergy analysis was applied in order to identify these components and processes of the FDC system that are mainly responsible for exergy destruction. Moreover, the exergy efficiency of a simple fluidized desiccant cooler was determined. The results showed that fluidized beds and regenerative heat exchanger were the main exergy destruction sources with a 32% and 18% share of total exergy destruction, respectively. On the other hand, the direct evaporative cooler and air cooler placed after the desorbing fluidized bed were characterized by the lowest exergy efficiencies. This work contributes to better understanding of FDC operation principles and improvement of the performance of FDC technology.
Kinetics of Solid-Gas Reactions and Their Application to Carbonate Looping Systems
Authors: Fedunik-Hofman Larissa , Bayon Alicia , Donne Scott W.
Published: August 2019

Reaction kinetics is an important field of study in chemical engineering to translate laboratory-scale studies to large-scale reactor conditions. The procedures used to determine kinetic parameters (activation energy, pre-exponential factor and the reaction model) include model-fitting, model-free and generalized methods, which have been extensively used in published literature to model solid-gas reactions. A comprehensive review of kinetic analysis methods will be presented using the example of carbonate looping, an important process applied to thermochemical energy storage and carbon capture technologies. The kinetic parameters obtained by different methods for both the calcination and carbonation reactions are compared. The experimental conditions, material properties and the kinetic method are found to strongly influence the kinetic parameters and recommendations are provided for the analysis of both reactions. Of the methods, isoconversional techniques are encouraged to arrive at non-mechanistic parameters for calcination, while for carbonation, material characterization is recommended before choosing a specific kinetic analysis method.
The Relations of Oil Price Change with Fear Gauges in Global Political and Economic Environment
Authors: Lin Jeng-Bau , Tsai Wei
Published: August 2019

The oil price time series data can be affected by major global political and economic events, which would result in structural changes that could lead to biased estimations. By adopting the Bai and Perron model this paper found that there were six structural breaks in the Brent oil price due to major global events and that ARDL-ECM cointegration exists only between oil price and stock market volatility index (VIX) throughout the sampling period. However, cointegration relations were found between oil price and Crude Oil Volatility Index (OVX) in the second and fourth sub-periods, and also between oil price and VIX in the second, third, fourth, sixth, and seventh sub-periods. Furthermore, the cointegration relation coupled with correlation analysis indicates a long-term equilibrium positive (negative) relation between the two variables. Such relations existed between the price and the two fear gauges, respectively, only for some specific sub-periods, implying that OVX seemed to be better than VIX in predicting oil price changes. We suggest that the investors in the global oil market must pay attention to not only the impacts of major global political and economic events on oil price, but also the positive or negative correlations between oil price and fear gauge.
How Relevant Are Non-Use Values and Perceptions in Economic Valuations? The Case of Hydropower Plants
Authors: Sousa Sara , Botelho Anabela , Pinto Lígia M. Costa , Valente Marieta
Published: August 2019

The construction of hydropower plants, particularly of large ones, is far from being a consensual decision: advocates defend their construction based on the unquestionable benefits hydropower provides, while critics argue that these facilities are far from harmless and cause adverse impacts on the environment, being not only against the construction but also demanding the destruction of existing ones. We review a selection of recent empirical studies concerning impacts of hydropower developments, to make a case for the consideration of non-use values in the economic valuation of the environmental and social impacts of hydropower plants, through the use of non-market valuation methodologies. Additionally, we present data from a case study of hydropower economic valuation, where different subgroups of the population with differing degrees of contact and familiarity with hydropower rate their perception of impacts. Respondents with more contact are less penalizing of hydropower than other respondents. We conclude that non-use values are non-negligible and can be valued through stated preference methods, but researchers should take into consideration perceptions and the role of users and non-users. Non-use values should thus not be neglected by policy makers and regulators at the planning and public consultation stages or as part of the decommissioning decision.
IoT and Blockchain Paradigms for EV Charging System
Authors: Martins Jose P. , Ferreira Joao C. , Monteiro Vitor , Afonso Jose A. , Afonso Joao L.
Published: August 2019

In this research work, we apply the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm with a decentralized blockchain approach to handle the electric vehicle (EV) charging process in shared spaces, such as condominiums. A mobile app handles the user authentication mechanism to initiate the EV charging process, where a set of sensors are used for measuring energy consumption, and based on a microcontroller, establish data communication with the mobile app. A blockchain handles financial transitions, and this approach can be replicated to other EV charging scenarios, such as public charging systems in a city, where the mobile device provides an authentication mechanism. A user interface was developed to visualize transactions, gather users’ preferences, and handle power charging limitations due to the usage of a shared infrastructure. The developed approach was tested in a shared space with three EVs using a charging infrastructure for a period of 3.5 months.
Effect of a Combination of Fenugreek Seeds, Linseeds, Garlic and Copper Sulfate on Laying Hens Performances, Egg Physical and Chemical Qualities
Authors: Omri Besma , Larbi Manel Ben , Jihed Zemzmi , Durazzo Alessandra , Lucarini Massimo , Romano Raffaele , Santini Antonello , Abdouli Hédi
Published: August 2019

Several investigations have suggested that fenugreek seeds may have a hypocholesterolemic activity, and thus be efficient in the treatment of egg yolk cholesterol. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effect of dietary incorporation of 3% of fenugreek seed combined with 3% of linseed, 1% of garlic paste, and 0.078% of copper sulfate on laying performance, egg quality and lipids profile. Forty four, 41 weeks old, Novogen White laying hens received for 42 days 100 g/d of basal diet (control) or experimental diet (CFSGLSCS). With the exception of egg weight, which showed a significant increase for hens fed on CFSGLSCS with 57.99 g compared to 56.34 g for the control group, egg production (90.84% for control compared to 87.89% for experimental diet), egg mass (50.95 g/d for control compared to 50.87 g/d for CFSGLSCS), feed efficiency (1.94 for control compared to 1.98 for CFSGLSCS) were not affected by dietary treatments. The addition of CFSGLSCS reduced (p < 0.05) egg yolk cholesterol by 5.4% and blood cholesterol from 158.42 mg/dL to 122.82 mg/dL for control and CFSGLSCS, respectively. The dietary addition of CFSGLSCS increased (p < 0.05) total lipids from 4.5 g/egg to 5.23 g/egg and didn’t affect (p > 0.05) yolk triglycerides.
Acute Myocardial Infarction Hospitalizations between Cold and Hot Seasons in an Island across Tropical and Subtropical Climate Zones—A Population-Based Study
Authors: Chu Min-Liang , Shih Chiao-Yu , Hsieh Tsung-Cheng , Chen Han-Lin , Lee Chih-Wei , Hsieh Jen-Che
Published: August 2019

We investigated the effects of cold and hot seasons on hospital admissions for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) at the junction of tropical and subtropical climate zones. The hospitalization data of 6897 AMI patients from January 1997 to December 2011 were obtained from the database of the National Health Insurance, including date of admission, gender, age, and comorbidities of hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), and dyslipidemia. A comparison of AMI prevalence between seasons and the association of season-related AMI occurrences with individual variables were assessed. AMI hospitalizations in the cold season (cold-season-AMIs) were significantly greater than those in the hot season (OR 1.15; 95% CI 1.10–1.21). In the subtropical region, cold-season-AMIs were strongly and significantly associated with the ≥65 years group (OR1.28; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.48). In the tropical region, cold-season-AMIs, in association with dyslipidemia relative to non-dyslipidemia, were significantly strong in the non-DM group (OR 1.45; 95% CI 1.01 to 2.09) but weak in the DM group (OR 0.74; 95% CI 0.55 to 0.99). The cold season shows increased risks for AMI, markedly among the ≥65 years cohort in the subtropical region, and among the patients diagnosed with either DM or dyslipidemia but not both in the tropical region. Age and comorbidity of metabolic dysfunction influence the season-related incidences of AMI in different climatic regions.
Effect of the Hydrophilic-Hydrophobic Balance of Antigen-Loaded Peptide Nanofibers on Their Cellular Uptake, Cellular Toxicity, and Immune Stimulatory Properties
Authors: Waku Tomonori , Nishigaki Saki , Kitagawa Yuichi , Koeda Sayaka , Kawabata Kazufumi , Kunugi Shigeru , Kobori Akio , Tanaka Naoki
Published: August 2019

Recently, nanofibers (NFs) formed from antigenic peptides conjugated to β-sheet-forming peptides have attracted much attention as a new generation of vaccines. However, studies describing how the hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance of NF components affects cellular interactions of NFs are limited. In this report, three different NFs were prepared by self-assembly of β-sheet-forming peptides conjugated with model antigenic peptides (SIINFEKL) from ovalbumin and hydrophilic oligo-ethylene glycol (EG) of differing chain lengths (6-, 12- and 24-mer) to investigate the effect of EG length of antigen-loaded NFs on their cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, and dendritic cell (DC)-stimulation ability. We used an immortal DC line, termed JAWS II, derived from bone marrow-derived DCs of a C57BL/6 p53-knockout mouse. The uptake of NFs, consisting of the EG 12-mer by DCs, was the most effective and activated DC without exhibiting significant cytotoxicity. Increasing the EG chain length significantly reduced cellular entry and DC activation by NFs. Conversely, shortening the EG chain enhanced DC activation but increased toxicity and impaired water-dispersibility, resulting in low cellular uptake. These results show that the interaction of antigen-loaded NFs with cells can be tuned by the EG length, which provides useful design guidelines for the development of effective NF-based vaccines.
A Galactoside-Binding Protein Tricked into Binding Unnatural Pyranose Derivatives: 3-Deoxy-3-Methyl-Gulosides Selectively Inhibit Galectin-1
Authors: Pal Kumar Bhaskar , Mahanti Mukul , Leffler Hakon , Nilsson Ulf J.
Published: August 2019

Galectins are a family of galactoside-recognizing proteins involved in different galectin-subtype-specific inflammatory and tumor-promoting processes, which motivates the development of inhibitors that are more selective galectin inhibitors than natural ligand fragments. Here, we describe the synthesis and evaluation of 3-C-methyl-gulopyranoside derivatives and their evaluation as galectin inhibitors. Methyl 3-deoxy-3-C-(hydroxymethyl)-β-d-gulopyranoside showed 7-fold better affinity for galectin-1 than the natural monosaccharide fragment analog methyl β-d-galactopyranoside, as well as a high selectivity over galectin-2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9. Derivatization of the 3-C-hydroxymethyl into amides gave gulosides with improved selectivities and affinities; methyl 3-deoxy-3-C-(methyl-2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzamide)-β-d-gulopyranoside had Kd 700 µM for galectin-1, while not binding any other galectin.