bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The function of the alula on engineered wings: a detailed experimental investigation of a bioinspired leading-edge device
Authors: Ito Mihary R , Duan Chengfang , Wissa Aimy A
Published: July 2019

Birds fly in dynamic flight conditions while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. This agility is in part due to specialized feather systems that function as flow control devices during adverse conditions such as high-angle of attack maneuvers. In this paper, we present an engineered three-dimensional leading-edge device inspired by one of these specialized groups of feathers known as the alula. Wind tunnel results show that, similar to the biological alula, the leading-edge alula-inspired device (LEAD) increases the wing’s ability to maintain higher pressure gradients by modifying the near-wall flow. It also generates tip vortices that modify the turbulence on the upper-surface of the wing, delaying flow separation. The effect of the LEAD location and morphology on lift production and wake velocity profile are investigated using force and hot-wire anemometer measurements, respectively. Results show lift improvements up to 32% and 37% under post and deep stall conditions, respectively. Despite the observed drag penalties of up to 39%, the aerodynamic efficiency, defined as the lift-to-drag ratio, is maintained and sometimes improved with the addition of the LEAD to a wing. This is to be expected as the LEAD is a post-stall device, suitable for high angles of attack maneuvers, where maintaining lift production is more critical than drag reduction. The LEAD also accelerates the flow over the wing and reduces the wake velocity deficit, indicating attenuated flow separation. This work presents a detailed experimental investigation of an engineered three dimensional leading-edge device that combines the functionality of traditional two dimensional slats and vortex generators. Such a device can be used to not only extend the flight envelope of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), but to also study the role and function of the biological alula.
The conversion of biomass into carbon electrode material using FeCl3 as an activating agent for battery application
Authors: Andrijanto E , Purwaningsih I , Silvia L , Subiyanto G , Hulupi M
Published: July 2019

Batteries and supercapacitors are one of the energy storage devices that had been used for a practical application most electronic devices such as mobile phone. The development of these energy storage devices is faced by the poor performance of (the) electrode. Electrode commonly used for batteries and supercapacitors is derived from nonrenewable carbon resources such as graphite. However, the availability of this material is becoming a long-term problem for the development of batteries and supercapacitors. Biomass from (the) waste plant as a green source for battery electrode is one of alternative carbon which has great potential, due to the low price, easy to process and has high stability. This paper reports the study of the biomass conversion into carbon electrode material having high electrical conductivity or low electrical resistivity using carbonization and pyrolysis process. The process involved FeCl3 as an activating agent to reduce the electrical resistivity of the material as low as possible. The research was studying the effect of biomass sources and the processing method on the electrical resistivity of the electrode produced. The biomasses used in the study were corncob, water hyacinth, rice straw, and coconut husk. The material is the waste plant which is available in abundant. The morphological analysis of the carbon surface was conducted using Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-Ray (SEM-EDX). The lowest electrical resistivity was produced from corncob material through the carbonization process at 300°C for 2 h, activated by 4 M FeCl3 solution and followed by pyrolysis process at 800°C for 6 h. The FeCl3 is suspected responsible for the decreasing of the carbon resistivity or increasing the electrical conductivity produced, this correlates with the increase of the surface area of the material. The lowest electrical resistivity (highest electrical conductivity) produced from corncob has a value of 1 Ω with the surface area of 601 m2/g. This is considered better than graphite in term of electrical resistivity in which graphite has electrical resistivity between 10 - 30 Ω. The result of SEM images shows that the carbon surface activated by FeCl3 has more pores compared to the carbon without activation.
Synthesis of cassava starch based nano-hydrogels using gamma irradiation
Authors: Puspita I , Winarti C , Maddu A , Kurniati M
Published: July 2019

Cassava tubers are one of the most starch producers in Indonesia, which is third after rice and corn. Cassava tubers starch can be used as raw material of natural polymer-based nanohydrogel synthesis. The use of natural polymers promises superior properties such as more eco-friendly, cheaper prices because their raw materials are available naturally in abundant quantities compared to synthetic polymers. To obtain similar properties to synthetic, this study modified starch using acid hydrolysis method for 2 hours and 24 hours. The ethanol precipitation method is then carried out to produce nano-particle starch. The process of nano-hydrogel formation was cunducted by gamma irradiation. The results showed that the size of starch nanoparticles was between 14.97 - 492.7 nm. Nano-hydrogel with gamma irradiation treatment has 256.81% of swelling power, 83.35% of gel fraction, and 3.81 mJ of hardness. Meanwhile, the treatment without gamma irradiation has 365.47% of swelling, but has an unstable structure, this is indicated by 61.45% of gel fraction and 2.36 mJ of hardness.
Antibacterial efficacy of 2-citronellyl benzimidazole nanoencapsulation with chitosan-tripolyphosphate and casein micellar coatings
Authors: Warsito  , Noorhamdani A S , S Ramadhan D , Yuliatin  , Sari K
Published: July 2019

Benzimidazole shows antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi. Nanoencapsulation of 2-citronellyl benzimidazole is a technique that packages the drug’s active ingredient, offering the advantage of its controlled release. The 2-citronellyl benzimidazole nanoencapsulation was constructed from casein micelles and chitosan-tripolyphosphate using an ionic cross-linking method. The nanocapsules were characterized using a particle size analyzer (PSA), a Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrophotometer, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while the release profile and amount of the encapsulated active compound were determined using an ultraviolet (UV)-Vis spectrophotometer. The 2-citronellyl benzimidazole encapsulated by chitosan-tripolyphosphate showed particle diameters of 10.700 nm, 81.110 nm, and 159.410 nm at 10%, 50%, and 90% magnification, respectively. The casein micelles had an average particle size of 1017 nm. The nanocapsule diameters with and without freeze drying were 3.293 nm and 1017 nm, respectively. The presence of an imine group with a wave number of 1651.72 cm−1 on the FT-IR spectra of this band indicated that the active compound was coated. The nanocapsule surface morphology was trapezoid with a rough and uneven surface. The nanocapsular efficiencies using the casein micellar and chitosan-tripolyphosphate coatings were 56.763% and 79.97%, respectively. The kinetics release of 2-citronellyl benzimidazole showed a half-life of 86.63 minutes with a 60-minute stirring time. The nanocapsule’s antibacterial activity showed the greatest inhibition zones at 2.3 mm and 10 mm for S. aureus, 4.7 mm and 8.3 mm for E. coli, and at 6.7 mm for S. thypi.
Stratified-extended cox model in survival modeling of non-proportional hazard
Authors: Ratnaningsih D J , Saefuddin A , Kurnia A , Mangku I W
Published: July 2019

Cox proportional hazard model is frequently used in survival analysis. Cox proportional hazard model is time independent covariate while many models involve time as a dependent covariate causing incomplete proportional hazard assumption, known as non-proportional hazard. The proposed model in this paper was a non-proportional hazard involving time-independent and time-dependent covariates. The approaching model was carried out by joining a stratified Cox and extended Cox model termed as Stratified-Extended Cox (SE Cox) model. The simulation of the SE Cox model resulted in small MSE for the parameter estimates. In addition, the goodness of value was more appropriate compared to the existing non-proportional hazard model. Hence, the SE Cox model was applied to evaluate student persistence in Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia.
Evaluation of scoring method in urban-rural classification in Indonesia
Authors: Herlina  , Manik R P , Sartono B , Suharni L
Published: July 2019

BPS-Statistics Indonesia is responsible for collecting valid official data in Indonesia, which mainly depends on the sampling plan they used. The village classification into urban or rural group plays a significant role in the construction of the plan. So far, the classification has been based on a scorecard developed in 2010 consisting of 12 variables. With a certain threshold, each variable has several criteria that give a score. The total sum of the scores is then used to define the class of urban and rural. This study worked explorative to evaluate whether the scorecard is still proper to be implemented. Exploratory data analysis used in this study to analyzing data structures and patterns of the data distribution. Both of them will uncover unexpected things from the data. The result shows that variables i.e. population density, the percentage of agricultural households, the existence of kindergarten, the existence of cinema, the existence of hotel/pub/beauty shop, the percentage of household with cable phone and the percentage of household with electricity require more sensitive criteria and scorecard.
Generalized Spatial Three-Stage Least Square (GS3SLS) for Unemployment Rate and Economic Growth Modelling in East Java
Authors: Muslim A , Fitrianto A , M Sumertajaya I , Djuraidah A
Published: July 2019

Spatial models have attracted considerable interest in recent economics both on an empirical and theoretical level. One of the most widely used spatial models is the single equation model. Spatial simultaneous equation model as an extension of the widely used spatial single equation models can use more than one equation. Generalized Spatial Three-Stage Least Square (GS3SLS) estimator is one of the spatial simultaneous models. This paper presents the assessment of spatial simultaneous equations with GS3SLS method including Queen, Rock and Customized Contiguity. GS3SLS with customized contiguity (distance inverse) can share the best model of other continuity. It can be concluded that there is a relationship between the unemployment rate and economic growth in East Java. Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) and economic growth significantly affect Unemployment Rate and Human Development Index (HDI) and unemployment rates significantly affect economic growth. By using the customized contiguity, both the unemployment rate and economic growth give simultaneous spatial effect.
Prediction of synergistic effect between multiple compounds related to diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wijaya S H , Fadillah C , Kusuma W A
Published: July 2019

The medicinal plant contains several active compounds that work synergistically and targets some proteins. In order to obtain an herbal formula that can target two or more proteins from a disease, it is necessary to analyze the effect of compound interactions contained in medicinal plants. In 2015, Li Y et al. introduced a Network Target-based Identification of Multicomponent Synergy (NIMS) method to calculate the synergistic effect between two compounds for rheumatic disease in Traditional Chinese Medicine. However, research on interactions between three or more compounds is also needed to create an effective formula that can work on multiple targets. In this study, we proposed a novel method called One-Against-One NIMS (OAO-NIMS) to predict the synergistic effect of three compounds. Our proposed method was applied to examine compound interactions related to diabetes mellitus disease, and the best combination of three compounds was obtained by Gliquidone, Glipizide, and Mitiglinide with synergy score of 0.425.
Climate village program (ProKlim) in Simurugul Sub-Village, Margawati Village, Garut Kota Sub-Regency, Garut Regency, West Java Province, Indonesia
Authors: Muttaqin Z , Yulianti A , Karmanah
Published: July 2019

The community-based climate village program (ProKlim) has strengthened the implementation of integrated adaptation and mitigation impact of climate change, reduction of greenhouse gases emission, and recognition of active community participation. This study aimed to analyze the activities in supporting ProKlim of Simurugul sub-village, the benefit of those activities, and the current status of carbon stock. This research used qualitative research and carbon stock estimation. The adaptation scope involved was controlling drought and landslides, enhancement of food security, and controlling of climate-related disease. The mitigation activities scope of waste and solid management, the use of new renewable energy, organic farming, enhancement in vegetation cover, and prevention and controlling of forest and land fire. The benefits of a community of ProKlim to the community were an enhancement of resilience in facing the climate variability and impact of climate change, improvement of quality of the live and socio-economic community, and reduction of greenhouse gases emission which known carbon stock (1,430.50 tons) in Simurugul sub-village. This showed a potential development strategy and further practice of ProKlim at the local level.
Premium rate determination of crop insurance product based on rainfall index consideration
Authors: Muna S U N , Purnaba I G P , Setiawaty B
Published: July 2019

Crop insurance product based on rainfall index is an alternative product to minimize the risk in the agricultural sector. Rainfall index is supposed to represent crop failure in a specific area. Rainfall index is composed of parameters, trigger, and exit. The trigger is a benchmark value of rainfall that causes the partial risk and gives the right to the policyholder to begin partial benefit payment. The exit is the benchmark value of rainfall that consists of total crop failure and assigns the right to the policyholder to submit full benefit claim. The trigger and the exit in a rainfall index provide the value of the premium. A case study is carried out with cumulative rainfall data from June to August in the Dramaga area of Bogor from 1984 until 2017 to ensure paddy. The two-component Gamma Mixture distribution model is applied to determine the rate of premium that must be paid by the policyholder on the specified rainfall index.
Pollution loads and its impact on Lake Toba
Authors: Lukman L , Hidayat  , Subehi L , Dina R , Mayasari N , Melati I , Sudriani Y , Ardianto D
Published: July 2019

Human activities in Lake Toba area have contributed to the supply of pollutant on these aquatic ecosystems. Organic material and nutrient especially phosphorus component is estimated to be quite dominant of pollutant load. This study aims to recognize the level of organic load (in the form of Chemical Oxygen Demand; COD) and nutrient components (Total Phosphorus; TP) and its influence on the aquatic environment condition. This research was conducted in Lake Toba in November 2017, by observing selected locations in several inlet rivers of the lake and the lake waters area. The pollutant load from the land area, which is organic material (in the form of COD) reaches 90,712 tons/year, while the nutrient load (in the form of TP) reaches 138 tons/year. From aquaculture activities, organic loads released into the waters (in the form of feces and uneaten feed) are estimated at 14,265.4 tons/year, while the phosphorus load (in the form of TP) is 570.33 tons/year. The phosphorus load that enters the waters of Lake Toba as a whole has exceeded the permissible loading levels and changed the trophic status of the Lake Toba waters. Meanwhile, the organic pollutant load will increase the anoxic column on the hypolimnion area of the lake.
Development of an autonomous smart-parallel-parking robot for the prototype of collaborative robots
Authors: Wulandari  , Malada A , Arrazi M H , Priandana K , Wahjuni S , Hardhienata M , Buono A
Published: July 2019

One of the main problems of the collaborative mobile robot application is to share the exact information of the robot itself and the surrounding area. Each robot needs to maintain its stability and positioning in order to achieve the target. As one of the samples of achieving the positioning task, a parallel parking problem was used in this paper. This paper used a car-like robot to do a parallel parking task. Front wheels were steered by using a connected joint and a servo motor. Meanwhile, each of the rear wheels was connected to a motor DC. Four ultrasonic sensors were used to find the distance between the robot and its surrounding (fixed in front, back, middle right, and middle of right - back side). The sensors connected to an Arduino Uno as the main microcontroller. The robot used a positioning algorithm based on the distance to nearest objects. The robot is designed only for parking on the right side of the car with an assumption there is no obstacle in the left side of the car. The experimental results confirmed that our system can solve the parallel parking problem. However, during the test, the output of the sensor was were affected by the noise from the environment. Another problem was the robot hardly to move straight because the rubber tires were not installed neatly. In the future works, the data output needs to filter and corrected and the servo degree needs to be initially corrected based on the chassis and tires angle.
The effectiveness of germination pre-treatment on mung beans, peanuts, and tomatoes
Authors: Muttaqin M , Putri R I , Putri D A , Matra D D
Published: July 2019

Improvement in the germination process will improve the productivity of mung beans (Vigna radiata), peanuts (Arachis hypogaea), and tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), the three Indonesian important crops. Seed immersion in the water is one of the germination pre-treatments. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of seed immersion in pre-determined water on mung beans, peanuts, and tomatoes germination. The study used a factorial completely randomized design with three factors consisted of water pH (5, 7 and 9), water temperature (27 ºC and 50 ºC), and immersion time (15 and 30 minutes) on 3 replications. Seed germination process was carried out in a rolled paper method. The study showed that different water pH, water temperature, and immersion time gave a significant effect on the germinability, germination speed, seed vigor index, and the percentage of normal growth seeds. Moreover, the seed immersed in the water (pH 7, 50ºC) for 15 minutes showed the best effect on germination quality.
Study of structural and optical properties of Fe(III)-doped TiO2 prepared by sol-gel method
Authors: Kusumawardani L J , Syahputri Y
Published: July 2019

This study investigated the structural and optical properties of Iron(III)-doped titanium dioxide (Fe-TiO2) powders which were synthesized by sol-gel method with a post-annealing temperature at 500°C. Iron(III)-doped titanium dioxide was prepared from Titanium (IV) Isopropoxide and Iron (III) Chloride (FeCl3). Iron (III) Chloride was added in different concentration (5, 7.5 and 10 % w/w). The synthesis powders were characterized by FTIR, Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS), Field Effect Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and BET. FESEM analysis showed the morphology of 10 % (w/w) Fe doped TiO2 were homogeneous with the presence of less aggregate of iron. Meanwhile, The surface area of the sample TiO2-Fe 7.5% calculated from the BET adsorption plot is 107.096 m2/g. This surface area is higher than the sample TiO2-Fe 10% is 95,241 m2. It is confirmed that iron insert to the pore of TiO2. DRS Analysis revealed the light absorption in the visible region was increased with increasing the iron concentration up to 10% (w/w).
Fractional factorial and D-optimal design for discrete choice experiments (DCE)
Authors: Tazliqoh A Z , Wigena A H , Syafitri U D
Published: July 2019

Discrete choice experiments (DCE) are a method to measure people’s preferences in various fields of application that used to estimate the importance of attributes of the product or service based on the respondent’s choice. The design of DCE consists of several choices called profiles in each choice set. The best DCE’s design depends on how to divide the profiles into each choice set so it needs a strategy to construct the appropriate DCE’s design. So, the purpose of our study is looking for the most appropriate strategy from two strategies used namely fractional factorial design as the first strategy and D-optimal design with a point-exchange algorithm as the second strategy. The quality of the two strategies is evaluated with the D-optimality criterion value. Both of them are simulated in the case that involves four attributes with two levels, respectively, so all possible profiles are 24 = 16 profiles. The first strategy gained DCE’s design that consisted of two choice sets and eight profiles, respectively. The second strategy gained two different DCE’s designs. The first design consisted of four choice sets and four profiles, respectively. The second design consisted of eight choice sets and two profiles, respectively. Both the first and second strategies have the same D-optimality criterion values but a difference in structure. In terms of statistics, both strategies have the same quality. However, in terms of application, the second strategy is more appropriate in the structure than the first strategy. Hence, the D-optimal design is an alternative to construct DCE’s design based on applications.
Mesostructural origin of the field-induced pseudo-plasticity effect in a soft magnetic elastomer
Authors: Stolbov O V , Raikher Yu L
Published: July 2019

A model is presented to studying the pseudo-plasticity effect in a soft magnetic elastomer: a weakly-linked polymer matrix filled with micron-size particles of a ferromagnet with virtually zero coercivity (e.g., iron carbonyl). If the filling fraction of the composite is sufficiently high, such a material displays a remarkable ability to radically change its rheological behavior: being subjected to external magnetic field, the sample loses its elasticity and responds to external mechanical load as if being made of a ductile substance with no tendency to restore its initial shape. In our simulations we show that, considering the system at the mesoscopic scale (as an assembly of particles embedded in an elastic continuum) and taking into account just the magnetostatic and elastic interactions, one is able to qualitatively correct reproduce the field-induced pseudo-plasticity effect.
Influence of length of partitions on the generation of transit flow in MHD-channel
Authors: Kolesnichenko I , Dolgikh V , Pavlinov A , Khalilov R
Published: July 2019

The process of the transit flow generation in the magnetohydrodynamic channel of the pump is investigated. Its design provides for the variation of the flow-rate of the liquid metal without changing the current in the channel. The pressure in the pump channel creates by an electromagnetic force through the interaction of a longitudinal electric current with its own magnetic field. C-shaped ferromagnetic cores are put on the channel. The current generates its own magnetic field which magnetizes the cores. The total magnetic induction vector of the current’s magnetic field and the field of the cores is orthogonal to the channel plane. The arising electromagnetic force generates a transit flow through the channel which is caused by the presence of flow partitions in it. The pump is tested on the gallium circuit. The pressure drop at the locked mode and variable flow rate mode for different values of channel overlapping by C-cores and their different numbers has been measured in the experiment. The pressure drop — flow-rate characteristics of the channel are determined at different values of overlap the channel.
Viscosity of Magnetic Fluid in Oscillation System in a Strong Magnetic Field
Authors: Polunin V M , Ryapolov P A , Zhakin A I , Shel’deshova E V
Published: July 2019

The article gives an assessment of viscosity and its increment (‘magnetoviscous’ effect) in a thin near-wall layer of the column of magnetic fluid that oscillates in the tube when applying a strong transverse magnetic field. Viscosity is calculated according to a formula derived from two different theoretical approaches. For calculation, previously published experimental results, which were discussed earlier on the assumption that there is no field dependence of viscosity, are used in the article. A comparative analysis of the “near-wall viscosity” estimates obtained using dynamic elasticity as well as the magnetization curve and the coefficient of static elasticity is carried out. The significance of the results obtained for ‘magnetoviscous’ effect for performing diagnosis of interparticle aggregation is indicated.
Evaluation of the Residual Strength of Structures Made of Composite Materials Based on a Conservative Distribution of Damage Parameters
Authors: Fedulov B N , Fedorenko A N , Lomakin E V
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study is to develop the method that conservatively estimates the residual strength of a composite structure with barely visible impact damage (BVID), without direct modelling of impact process. The basis of the research is in the conservative transformation of kinetic energy of impactor into damage of the material, which is associated with the system of microcracks in the matrix, fiber and interface. A special algorithm that distributes damage parameters in worst way for the composite structure provides conservative estimation of residual strength. Thus, bvid allowables can be set using fewer experiments.
Dynamics of the Gas Bubbles in the Magnetic Fluid in the Non-Uniform Magnetic Field
Authors: Polunin V M , Ryapolov P A , ASokolov E
Published: July 2019

This work presents a study of the hydrodynamics of gas bubbles in a magnetic fluid which is in a flat channel with a thickness of 2 mm, placed in the non-uniform field of the rare-earth annular permanent magnet. The peculiarity of the magnetic field configuration of this magnet is as follows: at a distance of 9 mm from the surface of the magnet there are two symmetric regions where the magnetic field is zero, the so-called ‘magnetic vacuum’ regions. The specified configuration of the magnetic field allows capturing and holding gas cavities when the magnet moves; while pressing the cavity to the bottom of the channel, gas bubbles separate. An experimental setup was created to study the hydrodynamics of gas inclusions; using this setup studies on the concentration series of four magnetic fluids based on kerosene with a volume concentration of 10.56 %; 6.32 %; 3.93 % and 2.08% were conducted. The mechanism of gas bubbles capturing and gas cavity formation in a magnetic fluid in the magnetic vacuum region of an annular magnet is investigated. The process of the separation of the bubbles from the air cavity when it is pressed down to the bottom of the channel by a non-uniform magnetic field is studied.
Peculiarities of the Thermal Regime of the Magnitogorsk Reservoir in the Zone of Water Use by PJSC “Magnitogorsk Iron and Steel Works”
Authors: Lepikhin A P , Lyakhin Yu S , Lyubimova T P , Parshakova Ya N
Published: July 2019

The solution of a wide range of tasks of protection and rational use of water bodies requires, first of all, an assessment of the levels of impact of industrial complexes. The solution of such problems for extreme technological and hydrometeorological conditions is carried out on the basis of appropriate computational experiments. However, verification of the underlying mathematical models can be performed only on the basis of correct input data. The paper presents materials of field studies of the temperature distribution of water both in the water area and in the depth of the Magnitogorsk reservoir, in the zone of influence of thermal effluents of PJSC “Magnitogorsk Iron and Steel Works” (PJSC MMK). It is shown that in the warmest limiting period, a significant vertical temperature inhomogeneity is formed.
Lichen symbionts outside of symbiosis: how do they find their match? A commentary on: ‘A case study on the re-establishment of the cyanolichen symbiosis: where do the compatible photobionts come from?’
Authors: Spribille Toby
Published: July 2019

This article comments on:

J. L. H. Cardós, M. Prieto, M. Jylhä, G. Aragón, M. C. Molina, I. Martínez, and J. Rikkinen. 2019. A case study on the re-establishment of the cyanolichen symbiosis: where do the compatible photobionts come from? Annals of Botany 124(3): 379–388.
Seeds of change: characterizing the soil seed bank of a migrating salt marsh
Authors: Kottler Emily J , Gedan Keryn
Published: July 2019

Background and Aims

The capacity for dispersal to promote or hinder species’ responses to global change remains a major question in ecology. One ecosystem experiencing rapid change is the tidal marsh, which is migrating inland in response to accelerated sea level rise. Few studies to date have investigated the ecological dynamics that impact this large-scale migration. Seed dispersal and persistence in the soil seed bank is a component that can be strongly indicative of community trajectories. With this in mind, the aim of our study was to characterize the germinable seed bank across a marsh–forest ecotone in the Chesapeake Bay.

Methods

Soil samples were collected across transects that ran from the high marsh to the coastal loblolly pine forest in a brackish marsh in Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, MD, USA. Samples were grown in a greenhouse and watered with either freshwater or 3 ppt seawater solution. We compared community composition across transects and between salinity treatments. Additionally, we compared the seed bank with standing vegetation and used seed trait data from the TRY Database to investigate changes in functional traits along this ecotone.

Key Results

We found halophytic species dispersing up to 15 m into the forest and a general lack of obligate upland species, including near absence of Pinus taeda, the dominant species in the forest canopy. A majority of species detected in the seed bank were wetland species of various types, with species with wide salinity tolerance arising most frequently. Salinity addition had a significant negative influence on seed bank diversity.

Conclusion

Overall, our seed bank results suggest that dispersal and germination under the conditions of saltwater intrusion will limit forest regeneration and favour marsh plant dispersal. This indicates that the ecological processes that determine the soil seed bank community will support continued migration of marsh species into uplands.
Hydration Interventions for older people living in residential and nursing care homes: overview of the literature
Authors: Cook Glenda , Hodgson Philip , Thompson Juliana , Bainbridge Lesley , Johnson Amy , Storey Paul
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Care home populations experiencing high levels of multi-morbidity and dementia require support from caregivers to meet their hydration requirements. This article provides an overview of literature related to hydration interventions and highlights gaps in knowledge.

Sources of data

This paper draws on UK-focused literature from Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts (ASSIA), CINAHL, Medline, Proquest Hospital Premium Collection, Cochrane Library and RCN databases on hydration interventions for older people living with multi-morbidity and dementia in care homes.

Areas of agreement

Fluid intake is too low in care home residents, and no single hydration intervention is effective in addressing the complex problems that older residents present.

Areas of controversy

There is a lack of consensus about how much fluid an older person should consume daily for optimum health. There is also lack of agreement about what interventions are effective in supporting individuals with complex physical and cognitive problems to achieve daily fluid intake targets.

Growing points

To improve hydration care for residents, care home teams should be competent in the delivery of hydration care, and work closely with integrated multi-professional healthcare specialists to provide proactive case management.

Areas timely for developing research

There is a need for understanding of what hydration practices and processes are effective for care home residents and including these in multi-component interventions.
The Application of Connectome-Based Predictive Modeling to the Maternal Brain: Implications for Mother–Infant Bonding
Authors: Rutherford Helena J V , Potenza Marc N , Mayes Linda C , Scheinost Dustin
Published: July 2019

Maternal bonding early postpartum lays an important foundation for child development. Changing brain structure and function during pregnancy and postpartum may underscore maternal bonding. We employed connectome-based predictive modeling (CPM) to measure brain functional connectivity and predict self-reported maternal bonding in mothers at 2 and 8 months postpartum. At 2 months, CPM predicted maternal anxiety in the bonding relationship: Greater integration between cerebellar and motor–sensory–auditory networks and between frontoparietal and motor–sensory–auditory networks were associated with more maternal anxiety toward their infant. Furthermore, greater segregation between the cerebellar and frontoparietal, and within the motor-sensory-auditory networks, was associated with more maternal anxiety regarding their infant. We did not observe CPM prediction of maternal bonding impairments or rejection/anger toward the infant. Finally, considering 2 and 8 months of data, changes in network connectivity were associated with changes in maternal anxiety in the bonding relationship. Our results suggest that changing connectivity among maternal brain networks may provide insight into the mother–infant bond, specifically in the context of anxiety and the representation of the infant in the mother’s mind. These findings provide an opportunity to mechanistically investigate approaches to enhance the connectivity of these networks to optimize the representational and behavioral quality of the caregiving relationship.
Results of primary biventricular support: an analysis of data from the EUROMACS registry
Authors: Vierecke Juliane , Gahl Brigitta , de By Theo M M H , Antretter Herwig , Beyersdorf Friedhelm , Caliskan Kadir , Krachak Valeriya , Loforte Antonio , Potapov Evgenij , Schoenrath Felix , Stockman Bernard , Vanderheyden Marc , Meyns Bart , Gummert Jan , Mohacsi Paul
Published: July 2019

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to describe pre- and postoperative data from the EUROMACS registry with regard to indications, for and survival and complication rates of patients with primary continuous flow and pulsatile biventricular long-term assist devices (BiVADs) versus total artificial hearts (TAHs) or left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) + short-term right ventricular assist device (RVAD) implants.

METHODS

We investigated patients who received implants between 1 January 2011 and 21 October 2017. Clinical baseline information about comorbidities, laboratory results, medical and device therapies and echocardiographic, haemodynamic and right ventricle (RV) parameters were evaluated along with the rates of deaths and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 413 of 3282 patients (12.5%) needed a biventricular pump. We investigated 37 long-term BiVADs, 342 LVAD + short-term RVAD implants and 34 TAHs. Minor differences were found in the baseline characteristics of our population, which had an overall high morbidity profile. The 1-year survival rate was 55% for patients with a continuous flow BiVAD; 52% for patients with an LVAD + short-term RVAD; 37% for patients with pulsatile BiVADs; and 36% for patients with a TAH. No statistical difference was observed among the groups. Over 50% of patients with BiVAD support were classified as INTERMACS profiles 1 and 2. The percent of patients with ambulatory heart failure (INTERMACS 4‒7) undergoing BiVAD implants was modest at <15%. No patients with a pulsatile BiVAD (n = 15) or a TAH (n = 34) were implanted as destination therapy, but 27% of the patients with continuous flow BiVADs (n = 6) and 23% of the patients with LVAD + short-term RVAD (n = 342) were implanted as ‘destination’. The adverse events profile remained high, with no significant difference among pump types. The right ventricular stroke work index and right heart failure scores indicated poor RV function in all groups. After 3 months of LVAD + short-term RVAD support, 46.7% still required ongoing support, and only 18.5% were weaned from RVAD support; 33.1% died.

CONCLUSIONS

The mortality rate after BiVAD support was high. Survival rates and adverse events were statistically not different among the investigated groups. In the future, composite study end points examining quality of life and adverse events beyond survival may help in shared decision-making prior to general mechanical circulatory support, particularly in patients with BiVAD implants.
The Impact of the Long-term Care Homes Act and Public Reporting on Physical Restraint and Potentially Inappropriate Antipsychotic Use in Ontario’s Long-term Care Homes
Authors: Walker Kevin , Shearkhani Sara , Bai Yu Qing , McGilton Katherine S , Berta Whitney B , Wodchis Walter P
Published: July 2019

Background

We report on the impact of two system-level policy interventions (the Long-Term Care Homes Act [LTCHA] and Public Reporting) on publicly reported physical restraint use and non-publicly reported potentially inappropriate use of antipsychotics in Ontario, Canada.

Methods

We used interrupted time series analysis to model changes in the risk-adjusted use of restraints and antipsychotics before and after implementation of the interventions. Separate analyses were completed for early ([a] volunteered 2010/2011) and late ([b] volunteered March 2012; [c] mandated September 2012) adopting groups of Public Reporting. Outcomes were measured using Resident Assessment Instrument Minimum Data Set (RAI-MDS) data from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2014.

Results

For early adopters, enactment of the LTCHA in 2010 was not associated with changes in physical restraint use, while Public Reporting was associated with an increase in the rate (slope) of decline in physical restraint use. By contrast, for the late-adopters of Public Reporting, the LTCHA was associated with significant decreases in physical restraint use over time, but there was no significant increase in the rate of decline associated with Public Reporting. As the LTCHA was enacted, potentially inappropriate use of antipsychotics underwent a rapid short-term increase in the early volunteer group, but, over the longer term, their use decreased for all three groups of homes.

Conclusions

Public Reporting had the largest impact on voluntary early adopters while legislation and regulations had a more substantive positive effect upon homes that delayed public reporting.
The Mount Meron infrasound array: an infrasound array without a noise reduction system
Authors: Averbuch Gil , Ben-Horin Yochai , Smets Pieter S M , Evers Läslo G
Published: July 2019

Measurements of seismo-acoustic events by collocated seismic and infrasound arrays allow for studying the two wavefields that were produced by the same event. However, some of the scientific and technical constraints on the building of the two technologies are different and may be contradicting. For the case of a new station, an optimal design that will satisfy the constraints of the two technologies can be found. However, in the case of upgrading an existing array by adding the complementing technology, the situation is different. The site location, the array configuration and physical constraints are fixed and may not be optimal for the complementing technology, which may lead to rejection of the upgrade. The International Monitoring System (IMS) for the verification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) includes 37 seismic arrays and 51 infrasound arrays. Although the CTBT verification regime is fixed in the treaty, an upgrade of the existing arrays by adding more technologies is possible.

The Mount Meron seismic array (MMAI), which is part of the IMS, is composed of 16 sites. Microbarometers were installed at five MMAI sites to form the Mount Meron infrasound array. Due to regulation and physical constraints, it was not possible to relocate the sites nor to install analogue noise reduction filters (i.e. a pipe array). In this study, it is demonstrated that the installation of the MMAI infrasound array is beneficial despite the non-optimal conditions. It is shown that the noise levels of the individual array sites are between the high and median global noise levels. However, we claim that the more indicative measures are the noise levels of the beams of interest, as demonstrated by analysing the microbaroms originated from the Mediterranean Sea. Moreover, the ability to detect events relevant to the CTBT is demonstrated by analysing man-made events during 2011 from the Libya region.
Voltage-gated proton channels exist in the plasma membrane of human oocytes
Authors: Smith R Ya , Morgan D , Sharma L , Cherny V V , Tidswell N , Molo M W , DeCoursey T E
Published: July 2019

STUDY QUESTION

Do human oocytes express voltage-gated proton channels?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Human oocytes exhibit voltage-gated proton currents.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Voltage-gated proton currents have been reported in human sperm, where they contribute to capacitation and motility. No such studies of human oocytes exist.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Voltage-clamp studies were undertaken using entire oocytes and vesicles derived from oocytes and in excised patches of membrane from oocytes.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Frozen, thawed human metaphase II oocytes were obtained from material donated to the gamete repository at the Rush Center for Advanced Reproductive Care. Prior to patch clamping, oocytes were warmed and equilibrated. Formation of an electrically tight seal requires exposing bare oolemma. Sections of the zona pellucida (ZP) were removed using a laser, followed by repeated pipetting, to further separate the oocyte from the ZP. Patch-clamp studies were performed using the whole-cell configuration on oocytes or vesicles derived from oocytes, and using inside-out patches of membrane, under conditions optimized to detect voltage-gated proton currents.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Proton currents are present at significant levels in human oocytes where they exhibit properties similar to those reported in other human cells, as well as those in heterologous expression systems transfected with the HVCN1 gene that codes for the voltage-gated proton channel.

LARGE SCALE DATA

N/A

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Human oocytes are large cells, which limits our ability to control the intracellular solution. Subtle effects of cryopreservation by vitrification and subsequent warming on properties of HVCN1, the HVCN1 gene product, cannot be ruled out.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Possible functions for voltage-gated proton channels in human oocytes may now be contemplated.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

NIH R35GM126902 (TED), Bears Care (DM). No competing interests.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.
Emergent threats: lessons learnt from Ebola
Authors: Piot Peter , Soka Moses J , Spencer Julia
Published: July 2019

Recent disease outbreaks have demonstrated the severe health, economic and political crises that epidemics can trigger. The rate of emergence of infectious diseases is accelerating and, with deepening globalisation, pathogens are increasingly mobile. Yet the 2014–2015 West African Ebola epidemic exposed major gaps in the world’s capacity to prevent and respond to epidemics. In the midst of the world’s second largest ever recorded Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, we reflect on six of the many lessons learnt from the epidemic in West Africa, focusing on progress made and the challenges ahead in preparing for future threats. While Ebola and other emerging epidemics will remain a challenge in the years to come, by working in partnership with affected communities and across sectors, and by investing in robust health systems, it is within our power to be better prepared when they strike.
Shared decision making in musculoskeletal pain consultations in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Sam Sreya , Sharma Radha , Corp Nadia , Igwesi-Chidobe Chinonso , Babatunde Opeyemi O
Published: July 2019

Background

Global populations, especially those in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), are at an increased risk of musculoskeletal (MSK) pain, a leading cause of years lived with disability. Shared decision making (SDM) in the management of these conditions may drive improvements in healthcare outcomes and quality. This study aimed to synthesize and appraise available evidence regarding SDM in MSK pain consultations in LMICs.

Methods

Comprehensive literature searches were conducted in 12 databases for primary studies investigating SDM in MSK pain consultations across all healthcare and community settings in LMICs. Study eligibility screening, data extraction and quality appraisal (using the Critical Appraisals Skills Programme tool) were completed by pairs of reviewers. Findings were brought together using thematic synthesis of data from all the primary studies.

Results

Seven studies (mostly moderate quality) were included. There was low awareness of SDM among healthcare professionals (HCPs); however, this is not explicitly practised due to cultural and operational barriers. HCP training and patient empowerment through health literacy were proposed facilitators. The traditional paternalistic approach to treatment poses a key barrier to SDM, decreases adherence to prescribed treatments and raises the risk of poor clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

SDM is still a relatively ‘foreign concept’ within consultations and management of MSK pain patients in LMICs. There is a dearth of research in SDM and patient-centred care. Given the socio-economic impact of MSK pain, further research into the value of SDM in LMIC healthcare settings requires further consideration.