bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total Monomeric Anthocyanin, Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity of Extracts from Eggplant (Solanum Melongena L.) Peel Using Ultrasonic Treatments
Authors: Dranca Florina , Oroian Mircea
Published: November 2015

Eggplant peel is a less studied source in terms of bioactive compound extraction from industrial residues, although its high content of anthocyanin and phenolic compounds is known. The method described here uses three different solvents, namely ethanol, methanol and 2‐propanol, for phenol, anthocyanin and antioxidant activity extraction. The extraction yields of total monomeric anthocyanin (TMA), total phenolic compound (TPC) and antioxidant activity (AA) from eggplant peel were optimized by varying the frequency, temperature and time of ultrasonic treatment. The influence of interactions between process parameters on extraction efficiency was also studied. The highest concentrations achieved were 7.842 g/100g in the case of TPC (2‐propanol, 45 kHz, 60°C for 40 min), 2,275 mg/kg in the case of TMA (methanol, 45 kHz, 50°C for 50 min) and 10.18 μM Trolox/kg in the case of AA (methanol, 0 kHz, 60°C for 20 min). The suitable parameters to achieve the highest concentration of antioxidants were determined for each solvent as follows: ethanol – 28.8 kHz, 67.1°C and 49.5 min; methanol – 45 kHz, 50°C and 53.75 min; and 2‐propanol – 30.6 kHz, 70°C and 60 min.

Practical Applications

This study presents a significant improvement in eggplant peel extraction using ultrasonic‐assisted extraction of bioactive compounds. During ultrasonication, the extraction of bioactive compounds in eggplant peel increases because the solvent has been energized. The ultrasound‐assisted extraction of bioactive compounds is a fast, economical and green alternative to the current techniques used in the extraction industry.
Protective effects of ellagic acid and ozone on rat ovaries with an ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Sayar Ilyas , Bicer Senol , Gursul Cebrail , Gürbüzel Mehmet , Peker Kemal , Işik Arda
Published: November 2015

Aim

This study investigated the effects of the antioxidant agents, ozone (O) and ellagic acid (EA), on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injuries developed from an ovarian torsion‐detorsion model.

Materials and Methods

Arteries in the left ovaries of rats were clamped for two hours to achieve torsion, and then the clamps were removed for a two‐hour detorsion period. Thirty‐five female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: control: administered only with anesthesia, rats were not subjected to torsion‐detorsion; I/R: subjected to torsion and subsequent detorsion, without administering any treatment agent; and I/R + EA, I/R + O and I/R + O + EA: subjected to torsion and detorsion processes and administered with EA, O or EA + O at the 75th minute of torsion. The rats were then sacrificed under general anesthesia and the ovarian tissues were excised. The tissues were homogenized and levels of glutathione reductase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde (MDA) were analyzed. Tissue damage was evaluated in terms of histopathological parameters, such as hemorrhage, congestion, edema and inflammation.

Results

Antioxidant enzyme activity and MDA levels in the ovary tissue increased in the I/R group and decreased in the O, EA and O + EA groups (P < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed that tissue damage in the O, EA and O + EA groups decreased in comparison with the I/R group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These biochemical and histopathological findings suggest that EA and O are effective against ovarian I/R injury.
Maternal Work–Family Conflict and Psychological Distress: Reciprocal Relationships Over 8 Years
Authors: Westrupp Elizabeth M. , Strazdins Lyndall , Martin Angela , Cooklin Amanda , Zubrick Stephen R. , Nicholson Jan M.
Published: November 2015

The relationships between employed mothers' work–family conflict and psychological distress are unlikely to be static or one way. Using longitudinal data, the authors investigated reciprocal effects between work–family conflict and psychological distress across 8 years of the family life cycle. They modeled cross‐lagged structural equations over 5 biennial waves of data, in 4 overlapping samples of Australian mothers reentering work between child ages 0–1 to 8–9 (N range: 1,027–2,449). The findings revealed that work–family conflict and psychological distress are distinctive aspects of mothers' well‐being that influence each other over time. Reciprocal influences were not confined to one period of parenting but continued as children grew older. Associations persisted after controlling for a range of work and family characteristics, and there was no evidence of mediation by family socioeconomic status, maternal age, or job quality. The findings suggest that employed mothers may benefit from policies and workplace practices that both promote maternal well‐being and reduce conflicts between employment and raising children.
A systematic review of the comorbidity between Temporomandibular Disorders and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Authors: Robinson L. J. , Durham J. , Newton J. L.
Published: November 2015

The most common cause of chronic oro‐facial pain is a group of disorders collectively termed temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Chronic painful TMD is thought to be a ‘central sensitivity syndrome’ related to hypersensitivity of the nervous system, but the cause is unknown. A similar understanding is proposed for other unexplained conditions, including chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Exploring the comorbidity of the two conditions is a valuable first step in identifying potential common aetiological mechanisms or treatment targets.

Method

Systematic literature review. Studies were included if they recruited community or control samples and identified how many reported having both TMD and CFS, or if they recruited a sample of patients with either TMD or CFS and measured the presence of the other condition.

Results

Six papers met inclusion criteria. In studies of patients with CFS (n = 3), 21–32% reported having TMD. In a sample of people with CFS and fibromyalgia, 50% reported having TMD. Studies in people with TMD (n = 3) reported 0–43% having CFS. Studies in samples recruited from oro‐facial pain clinics (n = 2) reported a lower comorbidity with CFS (0–10%) than a study that recruited individuals from a TMD self‐help organisation (43%).

Conclusion

The review highlights the limited standard of evidence addressing the comorbidity between oro‐facial pain and CFS. There is a valuable signal that the potential overlap in these two conditions could be high; however, studies employing more rigorous methodology including standardised clinical assessments rather than self‐report of prior diagnosis are needed.
Anti‐inflammatory and anti‐osteoclastogenic effects of zinc finger protein A20 overexpression in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Hong J.‐Y. , Bae W.‐J. , Yi J.‐K. , Kim G.‐T. , Kim E.‐C.
Published: November 2015

Background and Objective

Although overexpression of the nuclear factor κB inhibitory and ubiquitin‐editing enzyme A20 is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, its function in periodontal disease remains unknown. The aims of the present study were to evaluate A20 expression in patients with periodontitis and to study the effects of A20 overexpression, using a recombinant adenovirus encoding A20 (Ad‐A20), on the inflammatory response and on osteoclastic differentiation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐ and nicotine‐stimulated human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs).

Material and Methods

The concentration of prostaglandin E2 was measured by radioimmunoassay. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reactions and western blot analyses were used to measure mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Osteoclastic differentiation was assessed in mouse bone marrow‐derived macrophages using conditioned medium from LPS‐ and nicotine‐treated hPDLCs.

Results

A20 was upregulated in the gingival tissues and neutrophils from patients with periodontitis and in LPS‐ and nicotine‐exposed hPDLCs. Pretreatment with A20 overexpression by Ad‐A20 markedly attenuated LPS‐ and nicotine‐induced production of prostaglandin E2, as well as expression of cyclooxygenase‐2 and proinflammatory cytokines. Moreover, A20 overexpression inhibited the number and size of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase‐stained osteoclasts, and downregulated osteoclast‐specific gene expression. LPS‐ and nicotine‐induced p38 phosphorylation and nuclear factor κB activation were blocked by Ad‐A20. Ad‐A20 inhibited the effects of nicotine and LPS on the activation of pan‐protein kinase C, Akt, GSK‐3β and protein kinase Cα.

Conclusions

This study is the first to demonstrate that A20 overexpression has anti‐inflammatory effects and blocks osteoclastic differentiation in a nicotine‐ and LPS‐stimulated hPDLC model. Thus, A20 overexpression may be a potential therapeutic target in inflammatory bone loss diseases, such as periodontal disease.
The Consequences of Prisoners' Micro-Resistance
Authors: Rubin Ashley T.
Published: November 2015

For more than twenty years, scholars have called for greater attention to the consequences of micro-resistance to legality. Using archival data from Philadelphia's Eastern State Penitentiary (1829–1875), I examine the consequences of noncompliant prisoner behavior. I find that prisoners' noncompliance often entailed substantial costs to prisoners, particularly in comparison to the substantial benefits of complying with the prison regime. Despite its cost to prisoners, noncompliance did not have a single set of uniformly negative consequences for the prison regime. In fact, some forms of noncompliance may have actually protected the prison's reputation. Prison administrators, external allies, and critics used episodes of noncompliance for their own goals and to reinforce their preexisting claims about the propriety of competing prison designs, yielding this variable significance of noncompliance. As this study illustrates, connecting prisoner misconduct to power dynamics in the broader field produces a fuller understanding of micro-resistance's consequences.
NPHS1 gene mutations confirm congenital nephrotic syndrome in four Brazilian cases: A novel mutation is described
Authors: Guaragna Mara S. , Cleto Thaís Lira , Souza Marcela Lopes , Lutaif Anna Cristina G.B. , de Castro Luiz Cláudio Gonçalves , Penido Maria Goretti Moreira Guimarães , Maciel‐Guerra Andréa T. , Belangero Vera M.S. , Guerra‐Junior Gil , De Mello Maricilda P.
Published: November 2015

Aim

Autosomal recessive mutations in NPHS1 gene are a common cause of congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS). The disorder is characterized by massive proteinuria that manifests in utero or in the neonatal period during the first 3 months of life. NPHS1 encodes nephrin, a member of the immunoglobulin family of cell adhesion molecules and the main protein expressed at the renal slit diaphragm. Currently, there are approximately 250 mutations described in the NPHS1 gene distributed among all nephrin domains. The main objective of this study was to perform the analysis of the NPHS1 gene in patients with congenital nephrotic syndrome in order to determine the molecular cause of the disease.

Methods

Direct sequencing of NPHS1 gene in four children was performed.

Results

Each patient was heterozygous for two pathogenic mutations disclosing the molecular cause of the disease in 100% of the cases. We identified six different mutations, consisting of one in‐frame deletion, one frameshift, and four missense substitutions. The p.Val736Met mutation that is described here for the first time was considered pathogenic by different mutation predictive algorithms. Regardless of the type of mutation, three patients had a bad outcome and died

Conclusions

Despite the small size of the cohort, this study contributed to the increasing number of deleterious mutations in the NPHS1 gene by describing a new mutation. Also, since we identified NPHS1 pathogenic mutations as the cause of the disease in all cases analyzed, it might be a frequent cause of CNS in the South Eastern region of Brazil, although the analysis of a larger sample is required to obtain more indicative epidemiological data.
Development and psychometric evaluation of a questionnaire on nurses' clinical competence eye care in intensive care unit patients
Authors: Ebadi Abbas , Saeid Yaser , Ashrafi Shahrbanoo , Taheri‐Kharameh Zahra
Published: November 2015

Background

Given the high prevalence of eye disorders in intensive care units, evaluating critical care nurses' competence in providing standard eye care is a matter of utmost importance. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no valid questionnaire for measuring nurses' competence to undertake eye care.

Aims

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of a questionnaire on nurses' clinical competence in providing eye care to patients hospitalized in intensive care units.

Design

This was a psychometric study.

Methods

We initially performed a literature review and developed a 38‐item questionnaire consisting of knowledge, attitude and practice domains. We invited a panel of experts and a group of critical care nurses to assess the content and face validity of the questionnaire. Thereafter, we evaluated its construct validity by using the exploratory factor analysis and the known‐groups comparison technique. Moreover, the test‐retest and the internal consistency evaluation techniques were used for assessing the reliability of the questionnaire.

Results

Totally, 35 items remained in the final version of the questionnaire. Based on the results of the exploratory factor analysis, we categorized the items of the questionnaire into three factors. The Cronbach's alpha for the attitude and the practice domains as well as the Kuder‐Richardson 20 for the knowledge domain showed satisfactory internal consistency. The Cronbach's alpha for the whole questionnaire also was 0·83.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that the nurses' clinical competence in eye care questionnaire has a good factor structure and an acceptable reliability.

Relevance to clinical practice

A complication of sedation and coma is that some patients are unable to maintain effective eyelid closure. These patients present a higher risk of eye complications. Development of tools for evaluating nurses' competence in providing standard eye care is a fundamental prerequisite for improving the quality of eye care.
Micromorphology of fruits and seeds of Iranian Geranium (Geraniaceae), and its systematic significance
Authors: Salimi Moghadam Narjes , Saeidi Mehrvarz Shahryar , Ahmadian Namin Ania , Shavvon Robabeh Shahi
Published: November 2015

The fruit and seed micromorphology of 22 species of Geranium, representing the eight sections of the genus represented in Iran (G. sectt. Dissecta, Geranium, and Tuberosa of subgen. Geranium; sectt. Batrachioidea, Divaricata, Lucida, Ruberta and Trilopha of subgen. Robertium), have been examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Macro‐ and micromorphological characters, including fruit and seed shape, size, color, hair type and density, mericarp ornamentations, hilum position, seed coat pattern, epidermal cell shape, and anticlinal and periclinal cell walls, are presented. Two microsculpturing patterns are recognized on the mericarp surface: reticulate and pusticulate. The micromorphology of the seed coat showed four distinctive cell patterns. The seed epidermis is constructed either of polygonal, elongated polygonal, or square to rectangular cells. The polygonal type is the most common among the studied species, but the variation in testa cell characters, their size and shape, may provide further information and useful diagnostic characters at specific and infraspecific rank. The shape and color of the seeds are, however, of little systematic value. Fruit characters were found to be important for separating taxa at infrageneric rank and our results show that the species can be separated into subgenera and sections based on fruit morphology.
Adherence to an Aerobic Exercise Intervention after an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
Authors: DOUGHERTY CYNTHIA M. , LUTTRELL MATILDA N. , BURR ROBERT L. , KIM MISUN , HASKELL WILLIAM L.
Published: November 2015

Background

Exercise adherence is an important element in achieving important exercise outcomes. The purpose of this study was to describe adherence in a home‐based aerobic exercise program following an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), determine effects of adherence on peakVO2, and outline reasons for nonadherence.

Methods and Results

A single‐blind randomized control trial of home walking compared to usual care in 160 patients with an ICD for primary or secondary prevention was conducted. This report is on adherence in the exercise arm (N = 84). Home walking exercise consisted of 8 weeks of aerobic conditioning (60 minutes/day, 5 days/week) followed by 16 weeks of aerobic maintenance (150 minutes/week, 30 minutes/session) at 60–80% of heart rate reserve. Adherence was tracked using Polar heart rate (HR) monitors, pedometers, home exercise logs, and telephone follow‐up. Adherence was defined as performing at least 80% of prescribed exercise. For aerobic conditioning, there was a mean frequency of 3.81 walks/week, duration of 1,873 minutes walked, and 17.5% of exercise was in the target HR (THR) zone. For aerobic maintenance, there was a mean frequency of 2.4 walks/week, duration of 1,872 minutes/walked, and 8.7% of exercise was in the THR zone. Those who were 80% adherent achieved a 3.4 mL/kg/min (P = 0.03) improvement in peakVO2 over those who were <80% adherent. Reasons for nonadherence to exercise ranged from scheduling issues to viral illness and fatigue.

Conclusions

Adherence to aerobic exercise frequency and duration was high with few dropouts, resulting in higher peakVO2. Exercise monitoring equipment encouraged adherence and conferred a sense of safety to exercise.
Palaeoecology of a billion‐year‐old non‐marine cyanobacterium from the Torridon Group and Nonesuch Formation
Authors: Strother Paul K. , Wellman Charles H.
Published: November 2015

A new chroococcalean cyanobacterium is described from approximately 1‐billion‐year‐old non‐marine deposits of the Torridonian Group of Scotland and the Nonesuch Formation of Michigan, USA. Individual cells of the new microfossil, Eohalothece lacustrina gen. et sp. nov., are associated with benthic microbial biofilms, but the majority of samples are recovered in palynological preparations in the form of large, apparently planktonic colonies, similar to extant species of Microcystis. In the Torridonian, Eohalothece is associated with phosphatic nodules, and we have developed a novel hypothesis linking Eohalothece to phosphate deposition in ancient freshwater settings. Extant cyanobacteria can be prolific producers of extracellular microcystins, which are non‐ribosomal polypeptide phosphatase inhibitors. Microcystins may have promoted the retention and concentration of sedimentary organic phosphate prior to mineralization of francolite and nodule formation. This has a further implication that the Torridonian lakes were nitrogen limited as the release of microcystins is enhanced under such conditions today. The abundance and wide distribution of Eohalothece lacustrina attests to the importance of cyanobacteria as oxygen‐producing photoautotrophs in lacustrine ecosystems at the time of the Mesoproterozoic–Neoproterozoic transition.
Early symptom change in adult outpatients: Relationship with patient characteristics and therapeutic alliance
Authors: Smits Dave , Stinckens Nele , Luyckx Koen , Claes Laurence
Published: November 2015

Objective

This study has three aims: (1) to identify early change trajectories, (2) to examine patient characteristics predicting trajectory classes, and (3) to investigate the moderating effect of trajectory class membership on the working alliance.

Method

In a sample of 402 outpatients (M age = 38.27, 64.9% women), outcome scores (OQ‐45) on three time points (sessions 1, 3, and 5) were analysed by means of Latent Class Growth Curve Analysis. A multinomial logistic regression was used to investigate whether patient's age, gender, initial distress (OQ‐45), and personality traits (Dimensional Assessment of Personality Pathology–Short Form) predicted trajectory class membership. A repeated‐measures ANOVA examined whether differences in trajectory classes moderated the alliance quality (Working Alliance Inventory–Short version) over time.

Results

Four trajectory classes were identified: High distress–no change; moderate/high distress–small improvement, low distress–moderate improvement, and moderate/low distress–strong improvement. Gender, initial distress, and emotion dysregulation significantly predicted patients’ trajectory class membership. The Task/Goal alliance component increased linearly over time, whereas the Bond component followed a reversed U‐shaped pattern. The alliance was not moderated by trajectory class membership.

Conclusions

Four clinically relevant subgroups could be identified on the basis of the early symptom change trajectories. Gender, initial psychological distress, and emotion dysregulation predicted patient's trajectory class membership. Trajectory class membership did not influence the development of the early working alliance.

Practitioner points

As early change in highly distressed patients (Axis I and II) is not characterized by significant symptom change, clinicians should support and facilitate emotion regulation and social skills.

Investing in a strong alliance is recommended, although it does not differentiate early responders from non‐responders.
Effect of subchronic administration of agomelatine on brain energy metabolism and oxidative stress parameters in rats
Authors: de Mello Aline Haas , Souza Luana da Rosa , Cereja Ana Carla Moreira , Schraiber Rosiane de Bona , Florentino Drielly , Martins Maryane Modolon , Petronilho Fabricia , Quevedo João , Rezin Gislaine Tezza
Published: November 2015

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of subchronic administration of agomelatine on energy metabolism, oxidative stress markers and antioxidant defense in the brains of rats.

Methods

The animals received daily intraperitoneal injections of agomelatine (10, 30 or 50 mg/kg) or saline for 14 days. The prefrontal cortex, cerebellum, hippocampus, striatum and posterior cortex were analyzed.

Results

The findings showed that complex I was activated in the prefrontal cortex, cerebellum and striatum and inhibited in the posterior cortex at the 10‐mg/kg dose, and inhibited in all brain areas analyzed at the 30‐mg/kg and 50‐mg/kg doses. Complex II was activated in the posterior cortex at the 50‐mg/kg dose. Complex IV was inhibited in the striatum and posterior cortex at the 10‐mg/kg dose, inhibited in the striatum at the 30‐mg/kg dose and activated in the hippocampus at the 50‐mg/kg dose. Creatine kinase activity was inhibited in the striatum at the 10‐mg/kg and 30‐mg/kg doses. Lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation levels were not changed after the administration of agomelatine. Superoxide dismutase activity was increased in the striatum at the 10‐mg/kg dose, and catalase activity was inhibited in the cerebellum at the 10‐mg/kg dose and increased in the posterior cortex at the 30‐mg/kg dose.

Conclusions

Our results are consistent with other studies showing that some antidepressants may influence brain energy metabolism and oxidative stress parameters and expand knowledge about the effects of agomelatine in biochemical parameters in the brains of rats.
Dispositional Modality Vis‐à‐Vis Conditional Necessity
Authors: Marmodoro Anna
Published: November 2015

There is an ongoing debate in the metaphysics of dispositions regarding which type of modality governs their manifestation. This paper assumes as its default position the view that dispositions manifest by conditional necessity; that is, when in appropriate circumstances dispositions manifest necessarily. From this standpoint, the paper engages critically with an existing alternative in the literature, put forward most prominently by Mumford and Anjum, and known as dispositional modality. According to this latter view, even when in appropriate manifestation conditions, dispositions only merely tend towards their manifestation. By raising difficulties for this alternative, the paper offers indirect support for the conditional necessity view.
Chronic exposure to carbon monoxide in two elderly patients using a kotatsu, a traditional Japanese charcoal‐based heater
Authors: Nakamura Toshinori , Setsu Koutaro , Takahashi Tohru , Miyashita Mitsuhiro , Sugiyama Nobuhiro , Washizuka Shinsuke , Murata Shiho , Hanihara Tokiji , Amano Naoji
Published: November 2015

We report on two elderly patients with cognitive impairments, for whom chronic carbon monoxide (CO) exposure was suspected based on elevated carboxyhaemoglobin levels in their serum. On their initial visits, cognitive impairment and brain magnetic resonance imaging findings in both patients were compatible with the diagnosis of Alzheimer's‐type dementia. However, after discontinuation of the use of a kotatsu, a charcoal‐based heater, their serum carboxyhaemoglobin levels normalized and their physical symptoms resolved. Their cognitive function also slightly improved. The causal relationship between physical symptoms and cognitive impairment after chronic CO poisoning is uncertain; however, it is possible that chronic exposure to low CO levels exacerbated the clinical manifestation in our patients.
A Semiparametrically Efficient Estimator of the Time‐Varying Effects for Survival Data with Time‐Dependent Treatment
Authors: Lin Huazhen , Fei Zhe , Li Yi
Published: November 2015

The timing of a time‐dependent treatment—for example, when to perform a kidney transplantation—is an important factor for evaluating treatment efficacy. A naïve comparison between the treated and untreated groups, while ignoring the timing of treatment, typically yields biased results that might favour the treated group because only patients who survive long enough will get treated. On the other hand, studying the effect of a time‐dependent treatment is often complex, as it involves modelling treatment history and accounting for the possible time‐varying nature of the treatment effect. We propose a varying‐coefficient Cox model that investigates the efficacy of a time‐dependent treatment by utilizing a global partial likelihood, which renders appealing statistical properties, including consistency, asymptotic normality and semiparametric efficiency. Extensive simulations verify the finite sample performance, and we apply the proposed method to study the efficacy of kidney transplantation for end‐stage renal disease patients in the US Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients.
The Role of Goods‐Trade Networks for Services‐Trade Volume
Authors: Egger Peter H. , Francois Joseph , Nelson Douglas R.
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we address the role of countries’ goods‐trade networks for their services‐trade volume. The paper employs a large cross section of bilateral trade data on aggregate cross‐border goods and services sales and illustrates that the depth and overlap of two countries’ services networks induce a positive direct impact on their services‐trade volume. The evidence takes into account that goods trade flows and networks are potentially endogenous so that the estimated direct effects support a causal interpretation. We find that the magnitude of the multilateral goods‐trade network effect on the bilateral services‐trade volume is much larger than that of bilateral goods‐trade volume.
BIOPESTICIDE POTENTIAL OF (7R)-TRANS, TRANS-NEPETALACTONE AND CIS-LACHNOPHYLLUM ESTER IN CONTROL OF MUSTARD APHID, LIPAPHIS ERYSIMI (KALT.)
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Shekhar Mathela Chandra , Tewari Geeta , Kumar Pandey Ajay
Published: November 2015

(7R)-trans, trans-nepetalactone; a monoterpene iridoid (1) and acetylenic compound named cis-lachnophyllum ester (2) were isolated from the essential oils of Nepeta elliptica and Erigeron annuus, respectively and characterized using a combination of their spectral data  (1D-and 2D-NMR, MS, IR). Compound 1 and 2 were tested for biopesticide activity against mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.). Compound 1 exhibited high insecticidal activity towards L. erysimi with LC50 values of 2.18 and 2.73 mg/mL; LT50 values of 15.24 and 17.18 h. Compound 2 also displayed significant insecticidal activity having LC50 values of 0.85 and 4.70 mg/mL; LT50 values of 13.25 and 26.2 h. The activity of compounds 1 and 2 were comparable with synthetic pesticide, monocrotophos used as positive control and thus has potential as natural pesticides for use in economically important crops.
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING, TOTAL PHENOLIC AND TOTAL FLAVONOID CONTENT, AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF DIFFERENT PARTS OF Melastoma malabathricum
Authors: Danladi Suleiman , Wan-Azemin Amirah , Sani Yahaya Najib , Mohd Khamsah Suryati , Rao US Mahadeva , Mansor Sharif Mahsufi , Dharmaraj Saravanan
Published: November 2015

Melastoma malabathricum Linn. commonly known as ‘senduduk’ in Malaysia, belongs to Melastomataceae family. The study was carried out to screen the phytochemicals present in methanol extract of leaf, flower, fruit, and stem and to evaluate the antioxidant activity, total flavonoid and total phenolic contents of these different parts. Phytochemical screening showed that all parts of this plant contained tannins, steroids, phenols and flavonoids. The flower extract was found to have highest total phenolic whereas the leaf demonstrated the highest flavonoid content followed by flower. The results of antioxidant activity from the DPPH assay showed that the flower has the highest radical scavenging activity comparable to quercetin standard while stem showed the lowest activity. The higher content of total phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant capacity of flower suggests the possibility of its incorporation and exclusion of stem in M. malabathricum preparations for development of newer effective drugs.
IDENTIFICATION OF OLIGOSTILBENES FROM Dipterocarpus semivestitus THROUGH DEREPLICATION TECHNIQUE
Authors: Ramli Rohaity , Ismail Nor Hadiani , Manshoor Nurhuda
Published: November 2015

Three oligostilbenes have been identified in stems extract of Dipterocarpus semivestitus through dereplication strategy. The stems extract was injected to liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy. Two tetramer, hopeaphenol and hemsleyanol D, were identified by comparing their mass fragmentation patterns with in-house library. A trimer, a-viniferin was isolated by various separation techniques and its structure was confirmed by NMR analyses and comparison with published data.
QUALITY CONTROL OF ZINGIBER OFFICINALE OILS IN PRODUCT FORMULATIONS
Authors: Mohd Hirmizi Nurhazwani , Saidin Saidatul Husni , Mohamad Ali Nor Azah , Aziz Azrina , Jamil Mailina , Yusoff Norulaiman , Miorazmi Wan Nurhafisya , Zoll Patah Mohammad Faridz
Published: November 2015

Zingiber officinale (ginger) is one of the most commonly used flavouring ingredients in food and culinary dishes. The essential oils are known for its unique aroma and characteristic and widely used as therapy. In this study, the essential oil was formulated as massage oil and the quality of massage oil was evaluated on its physicochemical properties, i.e. colour, odour, density, viscosity, refractive index and pH value. The efficacy of the product was determined by the value of the melanin (coloured pigment) and erythema (redness of skin) as well skin irritation analysis (Finn Chamber Patch). The massage oil was also tested using Head Space-Solid Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME-GCMS) to determine the presence of ginger’s essential oils important chemical constituents in the massage oil. Analysis revealed the presence of a-zingiberene, neral and geranial which are the main components found in ginger massage oil. For safety use, the finished product was tested for microbial enumeration test and heavy metal analysis. Result showed that there was no microbial contamination and meets the British Pharmacopoeia 2011 specifications in topical use. Meanwhile the results of limit test for heavy metals were found to be below detectable levels of National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau specifications.
PREPARATION OF PRECIPITATED CALCIUMCARBONATE USING ADDITIVE AND WITHOUT ADDITIVE
Authors: Othman Anuar , Isa Nasharuddin , Othman Rohaya
Published: November 2015

Precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) chemically can be synthesized in the laboratory. In this study, hydrated lime or calcium hydroxide was used as raw material with sucrose as additive to produce PCC. The process was compared with the one without additive. PCC produced was observed based on morphology, mineral composition and size by using Fesem-Edx and LPSA, respectively. PCC products without additive demonstrated fine and more uniform size of calcite PCC as compared to the one with additive. Nevertheless, the process with additive produced more PCC product than without additive.
CONTINUOUS USE OF ONLINE STORAGE SYSTEM FOR DOCUMENT SHARING
Authors: Mat Yamin Fadhilah , Wan Ishak Wan Hussain
Published: November 2015

This paper discusses the use of online storage for document sharing to support teaching and learning purposes.  To date, online storage has become one of important tools for document storage and management.  Online storage has reduced the dependency to the storage devices that are bound to size limit, cost and risk.  A part of the storage capability, online storage can be used to share documents by allowing others to access the individual or a group of documents.   In this study online storage namely Dropbox has been used to share digital media such as notes, presentation materials and handouts to students.  Thus, the use of printed materials can be reduced.  In addition the documents can be safely kept and access at any time and location that are connected to the internet.   This study adapted Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to assess students’ perception and continuous use of Dropbox towards document sharing.  The findings revealed that students have positive perception towards Dropbox.  Furthermore, students have indicated that they are keen on continue using the Dropbox to support their learning.
ANALYTICAL HIERARCHY PROCESS AND MARKOV CHAIN IN SHARED KNOWLEDGE THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA
Authors: Sulaiman Nor Intan Saniah , Ghazali Saadiah , Zabidi Nerda Zura , Omar Mohd Faizal , Alias Rose Alinda
Published: November 2015

Many studies have been performed to measure successful knowledge sharing in general. However, limited study has been done to assess successful knowledge sharing through social media. Hence, in this paper intend to discuss our approach to assess   knowledge sharing among personal social media user. In order to achieve our objective, we proposed to integrate Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Markov Chain (MC) technique to investigate the pattern of the shared knowledge through social media. Markov Chain will be used to model the knowledge sharing success through expert opinion and stochastic process. We anticipate the outcome of the assessment in a form of a final matrix showing the probability of successful knowledge sharing through social media. The elements in each row of the Markov Chain transition matrix will be calculated using Analytic Hierarchy Process.  The assessment tool produce from our research is expected to benefit policy maker or internet user in order to enhance their knowledge sharing strategy in social media application.
EVALUATION ON ABSENTEEISM EFFECT IN PRODUCTION LINE AT AIRCRAFT COMPOSITE MANUFACTURER
Authors: Mat Desa W. L. H. , Kamaruddin S. , Nawawi M. K. M. , Zulkepli J.
Published: November 2015

This paper studies the effect of absenteeism in production line. The analysis shows that the number of absentees at production line increases the workload to the available worker and gives effect to the production. Thus, it gives a major potential for generating bottlenecks. To mitigate this problem and ensure that the workload of workers is at optimum level, an appropriate number of production plans need to be investigated. This paper demonstrates the integration of Discrete Event Simulation (DES) and System Dynamics (SD) in simulating the effect of absenteeism in production flow at an aircraft composite manufacturing factory. Based on the preliminary result, the effect of the absenteeism is found to influence the amount of throughput, waiting and cycle time.
THE INTEGRATED DETERMINISTIC MODEL FOR A VENDOR MANAGED INVENTORY IN A TWO-STAGE SUPPLY CHAIN
Authors: Abdul Rahim Mohd Kamarul Irwan , S.R. Nadarajan Santhirasegaran a/l , Razalli Mohd Rizal
Published: November 2015

In a two-stage supply chain system, vendor managed inventory (VMI) policies is an integrating decisions between a supplier and his retailers. The supplier assumes the responsibility of maintaining inventory at its retailers and ensuring that they will not run out of stock at any moment. This paper discusses an optimization approach, considering the model of static demand on the inbound as well as the outbound inventory for a two-stage supply chain implementing VMI. In the proposed solutions for coordinating the single-warehouse multiple-retailers (SWMR) system, retailers are first clustered to minimize the within-cluster travel costs and distances and are then replenished using an optimal direct shipping strategy satisfying some additional restrictions.
SUPPLY CHAIN INTEGRATION IN BROILER CONTRACT FARMING AND BUSINESS PERFORMANCE: KNOWLEDGE BASED VIEW PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Ariffin S. , Mohtar S. , Baluch N.
Published: November 2015

This concept paper aims to investigate the relationship between knowledge sharing practices within and between business partners as a framework for integration, and to examine the effect of these practices on business performance. Data will be collected from broiler contract industry in Malaysia. SPSS (Statistical Package of Social Sciences) will be used for data analysis. Three knowledge related constructs (internal knowledge integration, knowledge integration with growers, and knowledge integration with integrators) will be examined towards business performance. Further, these three variables collectively will explain relationship towards business performance. The relationships will be identified to support for the effectiveness of knowledge based collaboration. Managers can use this as a tool to conceptualize how their business can develop internal integration and collaborative relationships with their trading partners.
THE MODEL OF PERSUASIVE HAJJ LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Yusoff M.F. , Zulkifli A.N. , Mohamed N.F.F.
Published: November 2015

Hajj is one of five pillars of Islam. Every capable and able-bodied Muslim is obliged to make the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. Even though comprehensive courses were provided before the pilgrimage particularly in Malaysia, additional learning material is still needed. This is due to the complexity of Hajj procedures comprehension including the practical parts. Multimedia (MM) and virtual environment (VE) technology adaptation seems appropriate to be used for Hajj learning. Nevertheless, to design and develop a Hajj learning procedure application needs thorough preparation to achieve the objectives of use, particularly when it deals with elderly peoples who are not really interested in the technological approach learning. Thus, this paper proposed a model of persuasive Hajj learning environment and the theories usage; covering constructivist, MM principles, persuasive design principle and CTML use. This prototype was developed based on the model, and a heuristic evaluation also has been discussed in the end of topic. The methodology used in this study is an adaptation of the research design used by Vaishnavi and Kuechler in 2008. This paper is hoped to bring ideas and help designers and developers in the future.
TRPM4 non‐selective cation channels influence action potentials in rabbit Purkinje fibres
Authors: Hof Thomas , Sallé Laurent , Coulbault Laurent , Richer Romain , Alexandre Joachim , Rouet René , Manrique Alain , Guinamard Romain
Published: November 2015

Key points

The transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) inhibitor 9‐phenanthrol reduces action potential duration in rabbit Purkinje fibres but not in ventricle.

TRPM4‐like single channel activity is observed in isolated rabbit Purkinje cells but not in ventricular cells.

The TRPM4‐like current develops during the notch and early repolarization phases of the action potential in Purkinje cells.

Transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) Ca2+‐activated non‐selective cation channel activity has been recorded in cardiomyocytes and sinus node cells from mammals. In addition, TRPM4 gene mutations are associated with human diseases of cardiac conduction, suggesting that TRPM4 plays a role in this aspect of cardiac function. Here we evaluate the TRPM4 contribution to cardiac electrophysiology of Purkinje fibres. Ventricular strips with Purkinje fibres were isolated from rabbit hearts. Intracellular microelectrodes recorded Purkinje fibre activity and the TRPM4 inhibitor 9‐phenanthrol was applied to unmask potential TRPM4 contributions to the action potential. 9‐Phenanthrol reduced action potential duration measured at the point of 50 and 90% repolarization with an EC50 of 32.8 and 36.1×10−6 mol l−1, respectively, but did not modulate ventricular action potentials. Inside‐out patch‐clamp recordings were used to monitor TRPM4 activity in isolated Purkinje cells. TRPM4‐like single channel activity (conductance = 23.8 pS; equal permeability for Na+ and K+; sensitivity to voltage, Ca2+ and 9‐phenanthrol) was observed in 43% of patches from Purkinje cells but not from ventricular cells (0/16). Action potential clamp experiments performed in the whole‐cell configuration revealed a transient inward 9‐phenanthrol‐sensitive current (peak density = −0.65 ± 0.15 pA pF–1; n = 5) during the plateau phases of the Purkinje fibre action potential. These results show that TRPM4 influences action potential characteristics in rabbit Purkinje fibres and thus could modulate cardiac conduction and be involved in triggering arrhythmias.
Depositing Catalyst Layers in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells: A Review
Authors: Strong Austin , Thornberry Courtney , Beattie Shane , Chen Rongrong , Coles Stuart R.
Published: November 2015

Fuel cell technology continues to advance and offers to be a potentially promising solution to many energy needs. Of particular interest are manufacturing techniques to improve performance and decrease overall cost. For catalyst deposition on the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), there are a number of techniques that have been used in the past decades. This paper aims to review many of these main techniques that have been published to show the wide variety of catalyst deposition methods.
Flat Plate Honeycomb Seals Friction Factor Analysis
Authors: Micio Mirko , Bianchini Cosimo , Massini Daniele , Facchini Bruno , Ceccherini Alberto , Innocenti Luca
Published: November 2015

Among the various types of seals used in gas turbine secondary air system to guarantee sufficient confinement of the main gas path, honeycomb seals perform well in terms of enhanced stability and reduced leakage flow. Due to the large amount of honeycomb cells typically employed in real seals, it is generally convenient to treat the sealing effect of the honeycomb pack as an increased distributed friction factor on the plain top surface. That is why, this analysis is focused on a simple configuration composed by a honeycomb facing a flat plate. In order to evaluate the sealing performance of such honeycomb packs, an experimental campaign was carried out on a stationary test rig where the effects of shaft rotation are neglected. The test rig was designed to analyze different honeycomb geometries so that a large experimental database could be created to correlate the influence of each investigated parameter. Honeycomb seals were varied in terms of hexagonal cell dimension and depth in a range that represents well actual honeycomb packs employed in industrial compressors. For each geometry, seven different clearances were tested. This work reports the findings of such experimental campaign whose results were analyzed in order to guide actual seals design and effective estimates of shaft loads. Static pressure measurements reveal that the effects of investigated geometrical parameters on friction factor correlate well with a corrected Mach number based on the cell depth. The presence of acoustic effects in the seals was further investigated by means of hot wire anemometry. Acoustic forcing due to flow cavity interaction was found to be characterized by a constant Strouhal number based on cell geometry. Numerical simulations helped in the identification of system eigenmodes and eigenfrequencies providing an explanation to the friction factor enhancement triggered at a certain flow speed. Finally, the generated dataset was tested comparing the predicted leakage flow with experimental data of actual seals (with high pressure and high rotational speed) showing a very good agreement.
Three-Dimensional Oscillation Dynamics of the In Situ Piston Rod Transmission Between Buoy Line and the Double Hinge-Connected Translator in an Offshore Linear Wave Energy Converter
Authors: Strömstedt Erland , Leijon Mats
Published: November 2015

Force and displacement measurements have been performed in situ on the piston rod mechanical lead-through transmission in the direct drive of the second experimental wave energy converter (WEC) 3 km offshore at the Lysekil research site (LRS) during a 130-day continuous full-scale experiment in 2009. The direct drive consists of a buoy line and a piston rod transmission with a double-hinged link (DHL) at the lower end connecting the point absorbing surface-floating buoy to the translator of an encapsulated permanent magnet linear generator on the seabed. The buoy line is guided by a funnel in the buoy line guiding system 3.2 m above the generator capsule. The 3 m long piston rod reciprocates through a mechanical lead-through in the capsule wall, sealing off seawater from entering the generator capsule. A setup of laser triangulation sensors measures the relative lateral displacement of the piston rod. This paper introduces a method and a system of equations for calculating piston rod relative tilt angle and piston rod azimuth direction of tilting from the relative lateral displacement measurements. Correlation with piston rod axial displacement and forces enables evaluation of the three-dimensional (3D) oscillation dynamics. Results are presented from 2 weeks after launch and from 3 months after launch in altogether four cases representing two different stages of wear in two different sea states. Piston rod tilting from accumulated wear in the buoy line guiding system is separated from tilting due to elastic displacement. Structural mechanical finite element method (FEM) simulations verify the magnitude of elastic displacement and indicate negligible stress and strain at the mounting point of the laser sensor setup. The proposed theory for piston rod 3D motion is validated by the experiment. As the experiment progressed, wear in the buoy line guiding system accelerated due to splitting of the buoy line jacketing compound, thereby increasing the piston rod tilt angles. Over 94 days into the experiment, 21.8 mm of accumulated wear in the buoy line guiding system had altered the characteristics of the piston rod oscillations and increased the maximum piston rod relative tilt angle by 0.39 deg in the predominant azimuth direction of wave propagation. Further accumulated wear in the buoy line guiding system led to buoy line rupture 130 days after launch. The results presented in this paper have been used in assessments for improving the mechanical subsystems in subsequent experimental WECs based on the Uppsala concept.