bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteases from Calotropis gigantea stem, leaf and calli as milk coagulant source
Authors: Rajagopalan Anusha , Soundararajan Malini , Omana Sukumaran Bindhu
Published: July 2018

Background

Universal demand for cheese keeps the search for appropriate enzymes from plants mimicking animal rennet action in scientific focus.

Objective

To associate distribution of milk clotting potential and profile of whole/κ-casein hydrolysis by Calotropis gigantea stem, leaf and respective calli crude enzymes (CE).

Materials and methods

Milk clotting activity and index were assayed for CE. Caseinolytic activity (CA) was evaluated spectrophotometrically. 0.5 CA units of CE and Enzeco® were used for studying whole/κ-casein hydrolysis pattern by Tricine SDS-PAGE. Inhibition studies were performed for enzyme characterisation.

Results

Traditionally propagated (TP) stem and its callus CE exhibited high specific milk clotting activity (1297.30±0.2 U/mg of protein and 926.74±44.13 U/mg of protein, respectively) and milk clotting index (103.562±1.162 and 79.365±4.93, respectively). Comparison of whole casein hydrolytic pattern by 0.5 CA units of CE revealed closer resemblance between leaf callus and Enzeco®. However, κ-casein specificity analysis revealed TP leaf to be closely mimicking the performance by Enzeco®.

Conclusion

Study suggests CE from TP leaf to be a potential vegetable coagulant to work as an effective and low-cost milk clotting mediator in cheese industry.
Research on Suppressing Vibration of Mistuning Cyclic-Periodic Structure
Authors: Deng Pengcheng , Li Lin , Li Chao
Published: July 2018

This paper deals with the cyclic-periodic structure with piezoelectric shunt circuits or a parallel piezoelectric network. The objective is to obtain the vibration suppression effect of them on the cylic-periodic structure. The background of the research is about vibration reduction of bladed disks in aero-engines, and the system is simulated by a lumped parameter model. The tuned and mistuned dynamic equations of the system are derived. The method of equivalent blisk model (EBM) is used to identify the lumped parameters of a finite element model, which is related to the experimental model. Then the Modified Modal Assurance Criterion (MMAC) is used to evaluate the vibration suppression ability of shunt circuits and the network. The numerical results show that both of these two systems can control vibration well, even the mechanical and electrical mistuning level are up to 10 %, and there is an optimal resistance which can be used to design the system to get a good performance of vibration suppression. An experiment is performed to validate the analytical results. The experimental results demonstrate that the ability of vibration suppression for both two systems are almost the same, but the piezo-network has an advantage in vibration delocalization of the mistuned system.
Identificação de segmento corporal – relato de caso e discussão dos aspectos médico-legais
Authors: Bordoni Leonardo Santos , Da Silva Aldeir José , Dos Santos Fernando Carvalho , Bordoni Polyanna Helena Coelho
Published: July 2018

A perícia médico legal em um segmento corporal (SC) apresenta várias limitações técnicas e envolve equipe multidisciplinar. Neste trabalho é apresentado um relato de caso envolvendo os principais aspectos técnicos da análise antropológica forense de um SC, com ênfase na integração entre os conhecimentos médico legais e datiloscópicos que permitiram sua identificação. Tratava-se de uma mão e de um antebraço encontrados boiando em um rio de área rural. A análise antropológica conseguiu estimar que o SC pertencia a indivíduo do sexo masculino com idade superior a 40 anos e estatura média de 168 centímetros. O tempo de decomposição dos tecidos moles foi estimado como superior a 24 horas. Também foram evidenciadas lesões ósseas produzidas por ação cortante, causadas por objeto laminado à semelhança de uma faca, bem como uma área de pseudoartrose em fratura antiga do osso escafoide (um sinal particular do periciado). As técnicas utilizadas no preparo da luva epidérmica permitiram a obtenção de uma adequada impressão digital revelada que, ao ser comparada com impressão padrão, identificou a quem pertencia o SC.
Sudorese post-mortem: relato de caso
Authors: Alvim de Souza Eliane Helena , Bezerra do Nascimento Wagner , De Moraes Andrade Nasci Patricia Roberta , Da Silva Andrade Cristiane , Oliveira Pedrosa Spindola Michelline , De Souza Andrade Emanuel Sávio
Published: July 2018

O enforcamento é o meio mais adotado por homens e mulheres na prática do suicídio. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi apresentar relato de um caso de suicídio por enforcamento, onde ocorreu processo de sudorese post-mortem em indivíduo adulto do sexo masculino. Os dados relatados foram extraídos de laudo elaborado por perito criminal do Instituto de Criminalística de Pernambuco Prof. Armando Samico. Além dos sinais clássicos previstos na literatura como relaxamento de esfíncteres e sulcos em torno do pescoço, chamou atenção a sudorese evidenciada após afrouxamento do laço horas após a morte, por ocasião do trabalho pericial. A ocorrência do fenômeno evidenciado deve ser investigada em mortes da mesma natureza e estudos devem ser conduzidos no sentido de melhor explicá-lo por se tratar de fenômeno raro para o qual inexiste uma explicação possível.
Comparison of Mathematical Representation Skill and Science Learning Result in Classes with Problem-Based and Discovery Learning Model
Authors: Ertikanto C. , Rosidin U. , Distrik I. W. , Yuberti Yuberti , Rahayu T.
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this research is to know the difference of mathematical representation skill, the result of science learning and its influence on problem-based learning and discovery learning model. The population of this study was 16 students of PGSD FKIP University of Lampung. Among 534 students, there were two experimental classes consisting of 35 students and each was determined through cluster random sampling.  The data on mathematical representation skills and learning outcomes of science were obtained through a description test, five questions for assessing mathematical representation skills, and ten questions for assessing science learning outcomes. From the instruments that had been tested to 30 respondents, it was obtained a valid and reliable instrument with a score of 0.505 for mathematical representation skills, and 0.832 for learning outcomes. Furthermore, the data were analyzed by using normality test, homogeneity test, independent sample t-test, correlation test, and simple linear regression test. The results showed that there was no difference in the result of mathematical representation skill and science learning outcomes, between the problem-based learning model and real discovery. But there is a positive and significant linear influence between the mathematical representation skill and the learning outcomes of science, through a problem-based learning model of discovery.
Analysis of Students’ Critical Thinking Skill of Middle School through STEM Education Project-Based Learning
Authors: Mutakinati L. , Anwari I. , Kumano Y.
Published: July 2018

This research is to investigate the students` critical thinking skill by using STEM education through Project Based Learning. The study applied descriptive research design. In these lessons, the participants were 160 first grade Japanese middle school students from four classes. They were divided into nine groups each class. The instruments are worksheets to explore students’ initial knowledge about how to clean up wastewater and critical thinking processes. The worksheet consists of the designing solution, and understanding of concepts to identify critical thinking based on purpose and question, selection of information, assumption, and point of view the solution, and implication. Students were asked to design tools to clean up the wastewater. Students were given more than one chance to design the best product for wastewater treatment. The lessons consist of six lessons. The first lesson is the introduction of colloid, solution, and suspension, and discussion about wastewater. The second lesson to the fourth lesson was finding solutions and designing products. The fifth lesson was to watch a video of wastewater treatments in Japan and to optimize the solutions or products. The last lesson was to make a conclusion, to exchange presentations, and to develop discussion. Implementation of STEM education can be seen from the students` solutions, some students used biology or chemistry or physics or combination concept and Mathematics to design solution (technology) for treatment of wastewater. The result showed that the mean score of students` critical thinking skill was 2.82. The students` critical thinking skill was categorized as advanced thinker: 41.6%, practicing thinker: 30,6%, beginning thinker: 25%, and challenged thinker: 2.8%.  And the category for students` critical thinking was practicing thinker.  Practicing thinker is a stage of critical thinking development, they have enough skill in thinking to critique their own plan for systematic practice, and to construct a realistic critique of their powers of thought to solve the contextual problem.
Learning Difficulties of the 5th Grade Elementary School Students in Learning Human and Animal Body Organs
Authors: Maryani I. , Husna N. N. , Wangid M. N. , Mustadi A. , Vahechart R.
Published: July 2018

Natural Science is an elementary school subject that requires students to organize ideas and concepts about the natural world gained from experiences through a series of scientific processes such as investigating, composing, and presenting ideas.  The high complexity causes many cases of learning difficulties. This study aims to diagnose the learning difficulties that occur on 5th-grade elementary school students. The research was conducted in Muhammadiyah Pakem Elementary School, Sleman, Yogyakarta Special Regency.  The subjects were 29 of 5th-grade elementary students. Data collection techniques were interviews, tests, and documentation. Data analysis techniques were descriptive statistic as a quantitative analysis and interactive model as a qualitative analysis. The learning difficulties were diagnosed by describing the students who were identified having learning difficulties; localizing the difficulties; and determining the factors that cause learning difficulties. The results showed that the difficulties experienced by students were in basic competence 1.1-1.5 (human blood circulation organs). The average percentage of students’ learning difficulties in Basic Competence 1.1 was 48%; Basic Competence 1.2 was 51.1%; Basic Competence 1.3 was 57.6%; Basic Competence. 1.4 is 64.7%; and Basic Competence 1.5 is 53.7%. The highest percentage of learning difficulties was in Basic Competence 1.4 (identifying human circulatory organs). It was caused by the students’ low attention and motivation to learn natural science, the imprecise teaching methods, the parents’ attention, and the negative influence of mass media.
Control Pest of Leaf Caterpillars (Plutella xylostella) in Delima Rose Apples Using Soursop Leaf Extract (Annona muricata)
Authors: Amalia A. V. , Yusa M. H.
Published: July 2018

The increasing of pesticide use is in line with the increasing number of pest populations. However, the use of pesticides causes various negative impacts on the environment (soil, water, and air) such as pesticide-resistant pests, perishing of useful insects which are non-target pesticides, and the use of pesticide which can even lead to poisoning and death in humans. One of the environmentally-safe techniques to control pests is chemical, by the use soursop leaf extract. This study aims to determine the most effective concentration of soursop leaf extract (Annona muricata) in controlling leaf caterpillar (Plutella xylostella) in delima rose apples. The research was carried out in the plantation area of rose apples in tempuran village, Demak. The research method employed experimental research. The study was conducted using Completely Randomized Design. The data were obtained using probit analysis of LC50. The most effective concentration of soursop extract (Annona muricata) on leaf caterpillars’ mortality was 75 ppm. Soursop leaf extract (Annona muricata) has been proven to influence rose apples leaf caterpillars’ mortality index. The LC50 value of soursop leaf extract was 75,16 mg/L. The result showed that soursop leaf extract (Annona muricata) is effective as a biopesticide material to control leaf caterpillar pest for delima rose apples.
Enhancing K-10 Students’ Conceptions through Computer Simulations-Aided PDEODE*E (CS-PDEODE*E) on Newton’s Laws
Authors: Fratiwi N. J. , Samsudin A. , Costu B.
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to enhance K-10 students’ conceptions through Computer Simulations-Aided PDEODE*E (CS-PDEODE*E) on Newton’s Laws. The PDEODE*E is a worksheet consisting of seven stages, which are Predict (P), Discuss (D), Explain (E), Observe (O), Discuss (D), Explore (E*) and Explain (E). The computer simulations could support learning via PDEODE*E worksheet by presenting physics’ phenomena. The Newton’s Laws focused on forces and Newton’s First Law. The research method used the 4D (Define, Design, Develop and Disseminate). The research sample included 30 K-10 students (15 boys and 15 girls, with the average age of 16 years-old). The students’ conceptions were identified through a Four-Tier Newtonian Test (FTNT) as pre- and post-test. In the developing phase, we acquired the product of computer simulations and PDEODE*E worksheet. In the disseminating phase, the value of effect size was 0.85 in the "large effect" of classification and tcount>ttable, thus, CS-PDEODE*E was more effective than CS-POE. The decisions succumbed that the students’ conceptions could be enhanced via PDEODE*E based computer simulations.
The Development of Physics Teaching Materials Based on Local Wisdom to Train Saraba Kawa Character
Authors: Hartini S. , Firdausi S. , Misbah M. , Sulaeman N. F.
Published: July 2018

This research came up from the unavailability of the physics teaching materials containing the local wisdom of Tabalong Regency society, South Kalimantan, and the less optimal character education in the learning process. Therefore, the research and development on the physics teaching materials based on the local wisdom of Tabalong regency, South Kalimantan to train saraba kawa character were conducted. The objective of this study was to produce feasible physics teaching materials integrated with the local wisdom based on the aspects of validity, practicality, effectivity, and character achievement. This research type is a research and development using ADDIE model. The subjects of the try out were 36 grade X students of MIPA in 4 SMA Negeri 2 Tanjung Tabalong Regency. The instruments used in this study were validation sheet, response questionnaire, student achievement results, and character observation sheet. The results showed that: (1) the validity of the teaching materials based on its content and appearance was in a good category, (2) the practicality of the teaching material categorized as very practical, (3) the effectiveness of the medium categorized as very practical, (4) and the achievement of saraba kawa character categorized as very good. It concluded that the physics teaching materials based on the local wisdom to train saraba kawa character is feasible for physics learning.
Hotspot DAXX, PTCH2 and CYFIP2 mutations in pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms
Authors: Vandamme T , Beyens M , Boons G , Schepers A , Kamp K , Biermann K , Pauwels P , De Herder W W , Hofland L J , Peeters M , Van Camp G , Op de Beeck K
Published: July 2018

Mutations in DAXX/ATRX, MEN1 and genes involved in the phosphoinositide-3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) pathway have been implicated in pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (pNENs). However, mainly mutations present in the majority of tumor cells have been identified, while proliferation-driving mutations could be present only in small fractions of the tumor. This study aims to identify high- and low-abundance mutations in pNENs using ultra-deep targeted resequencing. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded matched tumor-normal tissue of 38 well-differentiated pNENs was sequenced using a HaloPlex targeted resequencing panel. Novel amplicon-based algorithms were used to identify both single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and insertion-deletions (indels) present in >10% of reads (high abundance) and in <10% of reads (low abundance). Found variants were validated by Sanger sequencing. Sequencing resulted in 416,711,794 reads with an average target base coverage of 2663 ± 1476. Across all samples, 32 high-abundance somatic, 3 germline and 30 low-abundance mutations were withheld after filtering and validation. Overall, 92% of high-abundance and 84% of low-abundance mutations were predicted to be protein damaging. Frequently, mutated genes were MEN1, DAXX, ATRX, TSC2, PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK-ERK pathway-related genes. Additionally, recurrent alterations on the same genomic position, so-called hotspot mutations, were found in DAXX, PTCH2 and CYFIP2. This first ultra-deep sequencing study highlighted genetic intra-tumor heterogeneity in pNEN, by the presence of low-abundance mutations. The importance of the ATRX/DAXX pathway was confirmed by the first-ever pNEN-specific protein-damaging hotspot mutation in DAXX. In this study, both novel genes, including the pro-apoptotic CYFIP2 gene and hedgehog signaling PTCH2, and novel pathways, such as the MAPK-ERK pathway, were implicated in pNEN.
The IGF pathway is activated in insulinomas but downregulated in metastatic disease
Authors: Henfling Mieke E R , Perren Aurel A , Schmitt Anja M , Saddig Christiane M , Starke Achim A , Riedl Robert G , Versleijen-Jonkers Yvonne M H , Sprij-Mooij Diana M , Ramaekers Frans C S , Hofland Leo J , Speel Ernst-Jan M
Published: July 2018

Clinical and molecular studies have implicated epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways in the regulation of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PanNET) growth. Interpretation and comparison of these studies is complex due to clinical and molecular tumor heterogeneity. We therefore focused in this study on insulinomas, which we examined for mRNA and protein expression of EGFR, IGF and mTOR signaling pathway components by quantitative real-time PCR (n = 48) and immunohistochemistry (n = 86). Findings were compared with normal pancreatic islets and correlated with histopathological data and clinical outcome. Insulinomas showed low EGFR and high IGF2 expression. IGFBP2, IGFBP3 and IGFBP6 mRNA levels were 2- to 4-folds higher than those in islets. High protein expression of IGF2, IGF1R and INSR (in 51–92% of the tumors) and low-to-moderate expression of mTORC1 pathway proteins p-S6k and p-4EBP1 (7–28% of the tumors) were observed. Correlations were found between (1) ERK1 mRNA expression and that of numerous IGF pathway genes, (2) p-ERK and IGF1R protein expression and (3) decrease of IGF pathway components and both metastatic disease and shorter 10-year disease-free survival. In conclusion, our observations suggest that high expression of IGF signaling pathway components is a hallmark of insulinomas, but does not necessarily lead to increased mTOR signaling. Reduced expression of IGF pathway components may be an adverse prognostic factor in insulinomas.
Thyroid hormones stimulate L-arginine transport in human endothelial cells
Authors: Toral Marta , Jimenez Rosario , Montoro-Molina Sebastián , Romero Miguel , Wangensteen Rosemary , Duarte Juan , Vargas Félix
Published: July 2018

Thyroid hormone activity is associated with L-arginine metabolism and nitric oxide (NO) production, which participate in the cardiovascular manifestations of thyroid disorders. L-arginine transporters play an important role in activating L-arginine uptake and NO production. However, the effects of thyroid hormones on L-arginine transporters in endothelial cells have not yet been evaluated. The following methods were used. We measured L-arginine uptake, mRNA expression of L-arginine transporters, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) mRNA and NO generation after the administration of T3, T4 and the T3 analog, 3,3′,5-triiodothyroacetic acid TRIAC in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We also analyzed the role of αvβ3 integrin and of phosphatidyl-inositol-3 kinase (PI3K), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs: ERK1/2, p38 and SAPK-JNK) and intracellular calcium signaling pathways as underlying mechanisms. To this end, αvβ3 integrin was pharmacologically inhibited by tetraiodothyroacetic acid (TETRAC) or genetically blocked by silencing αv mRNA and PI3K, MAPKs and intracellular calcium by selective inhibitors. The following results were obtained. Thyroid hormones and the T3 analog TRIAC increased L-arginine uptake in HUVECs, the sodium-independent y+/CAT isoforms, except CAT2b, sodium-dependent y+L system and sodium-independent system b0,+L-arginine transporters, eNOS mRNA and NO production. These effects were suppressed by αvβ3 integrin inhibition with TETRAC or αv integrin downregulation or by PI3K, MAPK or intracellular Ca2+ signaling inhibitors. In conclusion, we report for the first time that activation of L-arginine uptake by thyroid hormones is related to an upregulation of L-arginine transporters. This effect seems to be mediated by activation of αvβ3 integrin receptor and subsequent PI3K, MAPK and intracellular Ca2+ signaling pathways.
Blastocyst-induced changes in the bovine endometrial transcriptome
Authors: Passaro C , Tutt D , Mathew D J , Sanchez J M , Browne J A , Boe-Hansen G B , Fair T , Lonergan P
Published: July 2018

The objectives of this study were (i) to determine whether blastocyst-induced responses in endometrial explants were detectable after 6- or 24-h co-culture in vitro; (ii) to test if direct contact is required between embryos and the endometrial surface in order to stimulate endometrial gene expression; (iii) to establish the number of blastocysts required to elicit a detectable endometrial response; (iv) to investigate if upregulation of five interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in the endometrium was specific to the blastocyst stage and (v) to test if alterations in endometrial gene expression can be induced by blastocyst-conditioned medium. Exposure of endometrial explants to Day 8 blastocysts in vitro for 6 or 24 h induced the expression of ISGs (MX1, MX2, OAS1, ISG15, RSAD2); expression of IFNAR1, IFNAR2, NFKB1, IL1B, STAT1, LGALS3BP, LGALS9, HPGD, PTGES, ITGB1, AKR1C4, AMD1 and AQP4 was not affected. Culture of explants in the presence of more than five blastocysts was sufficient to induce the effect, with maximum expression of ISGs occurring in the presence of 20 blastocysts. This effect was exclusive to blastocyst stage embryos; oocytes, 2-cell embryos or Day 5 morulae did not alter the relative abundance of any of the transcripts examined. Direct contact between blastocysts and the endometrial surface was not required in order to alter the abundance of these transcripts and blastocyst-conditioned medium alone was sufficient to stimulate a response. Results support the notion that local embryo–maternal interaction may occur as early as Day 8 of pregnancy in cattle.
A Bayesian Decision Theory Approach for Genomic Selection
Authors: Villar-Hernández Bartolo de Jesús , Pérez-Elizalde Sergio , Crossa José , Pérez-Rodríguez Paulino , Toledo Fernando H , Burgueño Juan
Published: July 2018

Plant and animal breeders are interested in selecting the best individuals from a candidate set for the next breeding cycle. In this paper, we propose a formal method under the Bayesian decision theory framework to tackle the selection problem based on genomic selection (GS) in single- and multi-trait settings. We proposed and tested three univariate loss functions (Kullback-Leibler, KL; Continuous Ranked Probability Score, CRPS; Linear-Linear loss, LinLin) and their corresponding multivariate generalizations (Kullback-Leibler, KL; Energy Score, EnergyS; and the Multivariate Asymmetric Loss Function, MALF). We derived and expressed all the loss functions in terms of heritability and tested them on a real wheat dataset for one cycle of selection and in a simulated selection program. The performance of each univariate loss function was compared with the standard method of selection (Std) that does not use loss functions. We compared the performance in terms of the selection response and the decrease in the population’s genetic variance during recurrent breeding cycles. Results suggest that it is possible to obtain better performance in a long-term breeding program using the single-trait scheme by selecting 30% of the best individuals in each cycle but not by selecting 10% of the best individuals. For the multi-trait approach, results show that the population mean for all traits under consideration had positive gains, even though two of the traits were negatively correlated. The corresponding population variances were not statistically different from the different loss function during the 10th selection cycle. Using the loss function should be a useful criterion when selecting the candidates for selection for the next breeding cycle.
Identification of the NovelNup188-brr7Allele in a Screen for Cold-Sensitive mRNA Export Mutants inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: de Bruyn Kops Anne , Guthrie Christine
Published: July 2018

The maturation and export of mRNA from the nucleus through the nuclear pore complex is critical for maintaining an appropriate proteome in all eukaryotic cells. Here we summarize a previously unpublished screen in S. cerevisiae that utilized an established dT50 in situ hybridization assay to identify cold-sensitive mutants that accumulated bulk poly A RNA in the nucleus. The screen identified seven mutants in six complementation groups, including the brr6-1 strain that we described previously. In addition to brr6-1, we identified novel alleles of the key transport gene GLE1 and NUP188, a component of the Nic96 nucleoporin complex. Notably, we show that the nup188-brr7 allele causes defects in select protein import pathways as well as mRNA export. Given recent structural and functional evidence linking the Nic96 complex to transport components, this mutant may be particularly useful to the transport community.
Novel Oral Anticoagulants (NOACs) Roundtable – Hot Topics and Current Issues in association with Arrhythmia & Electrophysiology Review
Authors: Camm John , Alings Marco , Caterina Raffaele De , Kirchhof Paulus , Heuzey Jean-Yves Le , Verheugt Freek ,   St George’s, University of London, UK,   Amphia Ziekenhuis, Julius Clinical Research Julius Center, UMC Utrecht, the Netherlands,   G d’Annunzio University-Chieti and G Monasterio Foundation-Pisa, Italy,   University of Birmingham, UK,   Georges Pompidou Hospital, René Descartes University, Paris, France,   Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Published: July 2018

On 12 November 2014, Radcliffe Cardiology, in association with Arrhythmia & Electrophysiology Review (AER) journal, held a roundtable discussion in London, UK. The discussion held between an expert group of physicians was moderated by Professor A John Camm, a renowned authority in anticoagulation and atrial fibrillation. The meeting comprised a series of seven presentations and subsequent panel discussions on a range of topical issues related to the use of non-vitamin K antagonist (novel) oral anticoagulants (NOACs): real-world versus clinical trial data; once or twice daily dosing regimens; spot checks or monitoring for anticoagulation status; antidotes for NOACs; NOACs and dual antiplatelet therapy; NOAC treatment in chronic renal impairment; and choosing between NOACs. This paper summarises the presentations and presents key highlights from the subsequent discussions.
Optimisation of Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy with MultiPoint™ Pacing
Authors: Curnis Antonio , O’Donnell David , Kloppe Axel , Calovic Žarko ,   Brescia, Italy,   Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia,   Medical Clinic II, Cardiology and Angiology, Bergmannsheil Bochum, Germany,   Department of Arrhythmology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Italy
Published: July 2018

Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) using biventricular pacing is an established therapy for impairment of left ventricular (LV) systolic function in patients with heart failure (HF). Although technological advances have improved outcomes in patients undergoing biventricular pacing, the optimal placement of pacing leads remains challenging, and approximately one third of patients have no response to CRT. This may be due to patient selection and lead placement. Electrical mapping can greatly improve outcomes in CRT and increase the number of patients who derive benefit from the procedure. MultiPoint™ pacing (St Jude Medical, St Paul, MN, US) using a quadripolar lead increases the possibility of finding the best pacing site. In clinical studies, use of MultiPoint pacing in HF patients undergoing CRT has been associated with haemodynamic and clinical benefits compared with conventional biventricular pacing, and these benefits have been sustained at 12 months. This article describes the proceedings of a satellite symposium held at the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) Europace conference held in Milan, Italy, in June 2015.
ALTERNATIF SOLUSI BAGI KEBERLANJUTAN INDUSTRI SURIMI DI INDONESIA
Authors: Hikmayani Yayan , Apriliani Tenny , Adi Tukul Rameyo
Published: July 2018

Tulisan ini bertujuan untuk memberikan masukan tentang alternatif solusi bagi keberlanjutan industri surimi di Indonesia.  Awal tahun 2017 isu penting adalah ancaman tutupnya pabrik surimi yang ada di Indonesia disebabkan berkurangnya pasokan bahan baku yang berasal dari ikan hasil tangkapan sampingan (by catch) alat tangkap cantrang. Metode penelitian menggunakan desk study melalui data dan informasi yang diperoleh baik dari laporan maupun dari informan baik pengusaha maupun pejabat di Kementerian Kelautan dan Perikanan.  Analisis data dilakukan secara kualitatif untuk melngidentifikasi  dampak  dari berhentinya perasi pabrik surimi serta alternatif upaya yang dapat dilakukan bagi keberlanjutan industri surimi di Indonesia. Diharapkan dari kajian singkat ini dapat dijadikan masukan bagi pengambil kebijakan terkait dengan alternatif beberapa solusi yang diusulkan.
Nursing care to patients with diabetes based on King’s Theory
Authors: Araújo Eline Saraiva Silveira , Silva Lúcia de Fátima da , Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães , Almeida Paulo César de , Freitas Maria Célia de , Guedes Maria Vilani Cavalcante
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the effectiveness of nursing interventions based on the Imogene King’s Theory of Goal Attainment, on improving care for people with diabetes and adherence to treatment. Method: Quasi-experimental, longitudinal, randomized, simple study in a Primary Health Care Unit, in the city of Fortaleza, Ceará state, Brazil. The sample consisted of 60 people with diabetes, divided into intervention and control groups, whose collection occurred from February to August 2013. Results: In the intervention group, a significant adherence of the patients to the goals defined in the study was found. In the control, there was improvement in some aspects of the treatment. Conclusion: With these results, it was possible to conclude the feasibility of using Theory of Goal Attainment in the positive aspects for adherence to diabetes treatment and improvement of quality of life.
Persistent metabolic syndrome and risk of cardiovascular disease in children and adolescents
Authors: Farias Camilla Ribeiro Lima de , Medeiros Carla Campos Muniz , Souza Diogo Rodrigues , Costa Ivelise Fhrideraid Alves Furtado da , Simões Mônica Oliveira da Silva , Carvalho Danielle Franklin de
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT Objective: to verify persistence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and components in overweight children and adolescents, as well as its relation to socioeconomic and demographic characteristics and to the Pathobiological Determinants of Atherosclerosis in Youth (PDAY) score. Method: a two-point longitudinal study: at enrollment and after a 24-month interval, with 133 individuals ages from two to 18 years. The demographic anthropomorphic and blood variables were evaluated. Analysis was carried out by simple and paired association tests, as well as multiple logistic regression. Results: persistent MetS was observed in 38.3% of the sample, associated cardiovascular risk (ACR) in 79.7%, reduction in arterial pressure and do HDL-c. After adjusting for age and sex, excess weight (ExpB: 0.182; CI: 0.059-0.561), low HDL-c (ExpB: 9.247; CI: 1.157-73.930) and high LDL-c (ExpB:1.915; CI: 0.921-3.979) were associated with persistent MetS. Conclusion: persistent MetS was associated with obesity, HDL-c and LDL-c, but not with the PDAY score.
Dry Eye Syndrome in Intensive Care Units: a concept analysis
Authors: Fernandes Ana Paula Nunes de Lima , Araújo Jessica Naiara de Medeiros , Botarelli Fabiane Rocha , Pitombeira Danielly Oliveira , Ferreira Júnior Marcos Antonio , Vitor Allyne Fortes
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT Purpose: To analyse the concept of Dry Eye Syndrome in patients admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICU). Method: This is a concept analysis, according to Walker’s and Avant’s method, conducted using an integrative review, through search in the database. Science Direct, Scopus, Cinahl, Pubmed, Lilacs, Cochrane and Web of Science. The following keywords were used: “Keratoconjuntivite Sicca”, “Risk Factors”, “Dry eye Syndromes” and “Intensive Care Units”. After selection, 85 articles have been kept. Results: Antecedents found: age, lagophthalmos, environmental factors, use of medications, systemic diseases, mechanical ventilation and eye surgeries. Attributes: Tear Break-up Time < 10 s, Schirmer’s test I < 10 mm, Schirmer’s test II < 5 mm and signs and symptoms. Consequents: eye damage and discomfort; unstable vision. The Model Case and the Contrary Case were used to illustrate it. Conclusion: The research provided clarification of the concept and consequent understanding of the Dry Eye Syndrome, which is preventable especially in ICU.
Longitudinality in Primary Health Care: a comparison between care models
Authors: Kessler Marciane , Lima Suzinara Beatriz Soares de , Weiller Teresinha Heck , Lopes Luís Felipe Dias , Ferraz Lucimare , Thumé Elaine
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the attribute longitudinality in different models of assistance in Primary Health Care and observe its association with demographic, socioeconomic and health care characteristics. Method: a cross-sectional study, carried out in 2015 with 1076 adult users of primary care services in the 32 cities of the 4th Regional Health Care Core of Rio Grande do Sul State. The Primary Care Assessment Tool was used with definition of low (<6.6) or high (≥6.6) score for longitudinality. The association with independent variables was observed through the Poisson regression. Results: the attribute was better assessed in the Family Health Strategy and associate with age, housing health region and care model. Conclusion: the study points out the Family Health Strategy as a promoter of longitudinal care, and so, it suggests the expansion of this assistance model coverage for quality improvement in health care.
Multiple case study applied in nursing research: a case report
Authors: Silva Lara Adrianne Garcia Paiano da , Mercês Nen Nalú Alves das
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT Objective: To report the experience of using the method of multiple case study. Method: We used the method of multiple case study, conducted with children and adolescents assisted in the pediatric oncology inpatient unit. Results: The steps used for the development of a multiple case study were: Step 1 - Define and design; Step 2 - Prepare, collect and analyze; Step 3 - Analyze and complete. The steps included the development of a research project with the definition of its components, preparation of protocol for the case study, data collection, individual report of cases, data analysis and final report with data cross-referencing. Conclusion: The case study method can be used by nurses and contribute to the advancement in knowledge of nursing as a science and therefore contribute to a full care practice in the context in which the phenomenon happens.
Effectiveness of an educational intervention on knowledge-attitude-practice of older adults’ caregivers
Authors: Moreira Andréa Carvalho Araújo , Silva Maria Josefina da , Darder Juan José Tirado , Coutinho Janaína Fonseca Victor , Vasconcelos Maristela Inês Osawa , Marques Marília Braga
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the knowledge, attitude and practice of older adults’ caregivers before and after an educational intervention in the domains of the care between caregiver and older adult, feeding, bathing, hygiene and mobility and transportation. Method: Quasi-experimental study carried out with 82 caregivers, of which 34 participated in the intervention. Interviews were conducted through a knowledge, attitude and practice research on the older adults` care Results: The educational intervention led to improvements in knowledge, attitude and practice, with statistical significance of attitude (p <0.020) and practice (p <0.001), in the domain of the care between caregiver and older adult; knowledge (p <0.001) and practice (p <0.003) in feeding; Knowledge (p <0.001) and practice (p <0.001) in bathing and hygiene; and knowledge (p <0.001), attitude (p <0.001) and practice (p <0.001) in mobility and transportation. The analysis of the 34 caregivers who started and completed the study showed an improvement in attitude in most of the domains. Conclusion: the educational intervention is an effective and viable strategy for older adults’ caregivers.
Qualification of the family caregiver to the application of the Educational Technology in Health
Authors: Santos Paula Dayanna Sousa dos , Santos Zélia Maria de Sousa Araújo , Diógenes Léa Maria Moura Barroso , Caldas José Manuel Peixoto de , Rodrigues Kátia Alves Ferreira , Carneiro Rithianne Frota
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the changes in the participation of the family caregiver in the treatment of the hypertensive person with the application of the Educational Technology in Health (ETH). Method: Participant research carried out in a Primary Health Care Unit with 11 family caregivers (FC). The ETH was elaborated based on health education and applied in ten meetings between June and August 2016. We organized the results into categories. Results: FCs experienced learning experiences through the exchange of information, socialization of experiences, and linkage establishments. The FCs were encouraged to share their doubts and experiences, so that, supported by listening to the professional, they felt welcomed and determined to fulfill their role with hypertensive relatives. Final considerations: The changes that have taken place have been highlighted in the learning of FCs and their commitment to family and self-care, as well as to the conviction that the family environment is indicated to make these changes effective.
Using Catalytic Heat Recovery to Improve Efficiency of Gasoline Spark Ignition Engines
Authors: Leung Perry , Tsolakis Athanasios , Herreros José M. , Wyszynski Miroslaw L. , Golunski Stan E.
Published: July 2018

Exhaust gas recirculation is a widely used technology on conventional vehicles, primarily for lowering emissions of local pollutants. Here we use chemical models to show that an exhaust-gas recirculation loop can be converted into a heat-recovery system by incorporating a catalytic reformer. The system is predicted to be particularly effective for gasoline-fuelled spark ignition engines. The high temperature and low oxygen-content of the exhaust gas mean that endothermic reactions will predominate, when some of the gasoline is injected into the recirculation loop upstream of the reformer. The output of the reformer will, therefore, have a higher fuel heating value than the gasoline consumed. Chemical efficiency calculations, based on the predicted reformer output at chemical equilibrium, indicate that the direct improvement in fuel economy could be as high as 14%. Initial tests using a rhodium reforming catalyst suggest that much of the heat recovery predicted by the thermodynamic models can be achieved in practice, which together with a reduction in throttling may allow a gasoline spark ignition engine to match the fuel economy of a diesel engine.
SAS+ Planning as Satisfiability
Authors: Huang R. , Chen Y. , Zhang W.
Published: July 2018

Planning as satisfiability is a principal approach to planning with many eminent advantages. The existing planning as satisfiability techniques usually use encodings compiled from STRIPS. We introduce a novel SAT encoding scheme (SASE) based on the SAS+ formalism. The new scheme exploits the structural information in SAS+, resulting in an encoding that is both more compact and efficient for planning. We prove the correctness of the new encoding by establishing an isomorphism between the solution plans of SASE and that of STRIPS based encodings. We further analyze the transition variables newly introduced in SASE to explain why it accommodates modern SAT solving algorithms and improves performance. We give empirical statistical results to support our analysis. We also develop a number of techniques to further reduce the encoding size of SASE, and conduct experimental studies to show the strength of each individual technique. Finally, we report extensive experimental results to demonstrate significant improvements of SASE over the state-of-the-art STRIPS based encoding schemes in terms of both time and memory efficiency.
Consistency Techniques for Flow-Based Projection-Safe Global Cost Functions in Weighted Constraint Satisfaction
Authors: Lee J.H.M. , Leung K. L.
Published: July 2018

Many combinatorial problems deal with preferences and violations, the goal of which is to find solutions with the minimum cost. Weighted constraint satisfaction is a framework for modeling such problems, which consists of a set of cost functions to measure the degree of violation or preferences of different combinations of variable assignments. Typical solution methods for weighted constraint satisfaction problems (WCSPs) are based on branch-and-bound search, which are made practical through the use of powerful consistency techniques such as AC*, FDAC*, EDAC* to deduce hidden cost information and value pruning during search. These techniques, however, are designed to be efficient only on binary and ternary cost functions which are represented in table form. In tackling many real-life problems, high arity (or global) cost functions are required. We investigate efficient representation scheme and algorithms to bring the benefits of the consistency techniques to also high arity cost functions, which are often derived from hard global constraints from classical constraint satisfaction.

The literature suggests some global cost functions can be represented as flow networks, and the minimum cost flow algorithm can be used to compute the minimum costs of such networks in polynomial time. We show that naive adoption of this flow-based algorithmic method for global cost functions can result in a stronger form of null-inverse consistency. We further show how the method can be modified to handle cost projections and extensions to maintain generalized versions of AC* and FDAC* for cost functions with more than two variables. Similar generalization for the stronger EDAC* is less straightforward. We reveal the oscillation problem when enforcing EDAC* on cost functions sharing more than one variable. To avoid oscillation, we propose a weak version of EDAC* and generalize it to weak EDGAC* for non-binary cost functions. Using various benchmarks involving the soft variants of hard global constraints ALLDIFFERENT, GCC, SAME, and REGULAR, empirical results demonstrate that our proposal gives improvements of up to an order of magnitude when compared with the traditional constraint optimization approach, both in terms of time and pruning.
Reformulating the Situation Calculus and the Event Calculus in the General Theory of Stable Models and in Answer Set Programming
Authors: Lee J. , Palla R.
Published: July 2018

Circumscription and logic programs under the stable model semantics are two well-known nonmonotonic formalisms. The former has served as a basis of classical logic based action formalisms, such as the situation calculus, the event calculus and temporal action logics; the latter has served as a basis of a family of action languages, such as language A and several of its descendants. Based on the discovery that circumscription and the stable model semantics coincide on a class of canonical formulas, we reformulate the situation calculus and the event calculus in the general theory of stable models. We also present a translation that turns the reformulations further into answer set programs, so that efficient answer set solvers can be applied to compute the situation calculus and the event calculus.
Computing All-Pairs Shortest Paths by Leveraging Low Treewidth
Authors: Planken L. R. , De Weerdt M. M. , Van der Krogt R. P.J.
Published: July 2018

We present two new and efficient algorithms for computing all-pairs shortest paths. The algorithms operate on directed graphs with real (possibly negative) weights. They make use of directed path consistency along a vertex ordering d. Both algorithms run in O(n^2 w_d) time, where w_d is the graph width induced by this vertex ordering. For graphs of constant treewidth, this yields O(n^2) time, which is optimal. On chordal graphs, the algorithms run in O(nm) time. In addition, we present a variant that exploits graph separators to arrive at a run time of O(n w_d^2 + n^2 s_d) on general graphs, where s_d
Modelling Observation Correlations for Active Exploration and Robust Object Detection
Authors: Velez J. , Hemann G. , Huang A. S. , Posner I. , Roy N.
Published: July 2018

Today, mobile robots are expected to carry out increasingly complex tasks in multifarious, real-world environments. Often, the tasks require a certain semantic understanding of the workspace. Consider, for example, spoken instructions from a human collaborator referring to objects of interest; the robot must be able to accurately detect these objects to correctly understand the instructions. However, existing object detection, while competent, is not perfect. In particular, the performance of detection algorithms is commonly sensitive to the position of the sensor relative to the objects in the scene.

This paper presents an online planning algorithm which learns an explicit model of the spatial dependence of object detection and generates plans which maximize the expected performance of the detection, and by extension the overall plan performance. Crucially, the learned sensor model incorporates spatial correlations between measurements, capturing the fact that successive measurements taken at the same or nearby locations are not independent. We show how this sensor model can be incorporated into an efficient forward search algorithm in the information space of detected objects, allowing the robot to generate motion plans efficiently. We investigate the performance of our approach by addressing the tasks of door and text detection in indoor environments and demonstrate significant improvement in detection performance during task execution over alternative methods in simulated and real robot experiments.