bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Motivasi, Minat Dan Kecerdasan Emosional Terhadap Prestasi Belajar Mahasiswa Semester VI di Akademi Keperawatan Dharma Husada
Authors: Irawan Hengki
Published: November 2018

Introduction : Learn to represent very basal element in management each, every education ladder and type. Efficacy of school activity can be seen from attainment of achievement learn reachedly. The aim of this research is to identify the influence between motivation, interest, and emotional intellegence with achievement learn semester student of VI Nursing Academy Of Dharma Husada Kediri. Desain Research is quantitative with cross sectional approach. The study was held on December, 2012 at Nursing Academy Of Dharma Husada Kediri. Variables in this study were Motivation, Interest and Emotional Intellegence as independent variables, and the Achievement him Learnas dependent variable. Population in this research was all VI semester student, andsample size was 82 persons. Sampling technique used was total sampling. Data was being collected by questionnaire and  index to cumulative achievement. Data Analyzed by using double Linear regression test. Result of of study was the influence of motivation, interest and emotional intellegence to achievement learn with coefficient value of regresi 0.02 and 0.01     (t=5.987 and 4.334, interest do not have an effect on by signifikan to achievement learn with coefficient of regresi 0.03 ( test of t 0. 064) so that can be concluded that there are influence betwee motivation, interest and emotional intellegence to achievement learn with value of R2 = 0.696 and F Value = 93.800 significant = 0.000 ; its 0.05 meaning equal to 69.6 achievement variation of learn to be explained by motivation variable, emotional intellegence and interest, the rest 30.4 determined by other factor and by simultan motivation variable, emotional intellegence and enthusiasm can explain achievement learn student. Conclusion According to research, there is significant betwenit the influence of motivation, interest and emotional intellegence to achievement learn.It  is suggested to educator to increase ability teach it and risk motivation, interest and emotional intellegence and suggested for futher research on exploring physic and Phisicologist factor related/influence the achievement learn student.
ANALISIS PERBANDINGAN LAPORAN KEUANGAN SEBAGAI ALAT EVALUASI PENILAIAN KINERJA PERUSHAAN
Authors: Anwar Yuli , Wismantoro Priyo
Published: November 2018

The Financial Statements are An Extreme Important tool for obtaining information relating to the financial position and result achieved by the company. Financial data will be more meaningful to the parties concerned if the data is compared for two periods or more, and further analyzed to obtain data that will be able to support management decisions will be takenresult of comparative analysis the ratio of 2005 and 2004, indicating financial ratios, namely current ratio, quick ratio and working to total assets ratio increased respectively by 114.12% for the current ratio obtained from difference in current ratio for 2005 and years 2004, decreased 45.33 % for the quick ratio and decreased 2.26 % working ratio to total assets that may be caused by increase in current assets, except cash advances and purchases from the previous year.Ratio of financial operations, which is total debt to equality ratio, and total debt to total assets all increased respectively by 2.51 % and 2.26% are caused by local trade debtsActivity ratio, total asset turnover is increased respectively by 0.56 times and a decrease in accounts receivable turn over to be 8.46 times due increase in sales while the average collection period increased by 40.61 the day due higher average receivables and credit salesProfitability ratios, namely gross profit margin increased by 236.47 % and operating income ratio 280.12 % due the very high increase in sales in 2005, and opeating ratio decreased by 174.07 % due to falling prices of goods sold, net earnings ratio / ROI has increased by 42.08 % total assets rise
Opportunities and Challenges for Promoting Sustainable Water Services to the Urban Poor in Dhaka City
Authors: Roy S , Dutta S
Published: November 2018

Dhaka is one of the densely populated megacities in developing countries with rapidly growing urban population. A significant portion of Dhaka’s population lives in informal settlements and is truly deprived of adequate water services. The study was intended to explore obstacles behind promoting sustainable water services to urban poor in Dhaka city as well as to find out opportunities in this regard. A questionnaire survey was conducted amongthe officials of 3 government organizations and 3 non-governmental organizations. In Dhaka city, water services provided by the Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority is largely groundwater dependent, and a small amount of supplied water comes from surface water sources. The study revealed that compare to rising water demands, supply is absolutely unsatisfactory to city dwellers mainly due to poor infrastructures, lack of sustainable planning and management practices, population pressure and financial constraints. The study showed that conjunctive use of surface water and rainwater, with limited extraction of ground water could be better way for providing sustainable water services to urban poor in Dhaka city. Moreover, effective coordination between government organizations & NGOs and incorporation of private sectors and local community in the service sectors can help to provide sustainable water services.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 10(2): 1-10 2017
Present Status of Organic Sheep Production in Ramgoti Upazila of Lakshmipur District
Authors: Sarker AK , Amin MR , Hossain MA , Ali MS , Hashem MA
Published: November 2018

The experiment was conducted to investigate the present status and potentialities of organic sheep production in Lakshmipur district of Bangladesh. Data were collected through an interview schedule personally from 30 respondents in 3 villages of Ramgoti Upazila who were involved in sheep production. Parameter studied were origin, feeds and fodder, breeding, health care, living condition of livestock and factors related to organic sheep production. All sheep was indigenous. 60 per cent farmers used roadside grass and 40% cultivated and roadside grass. Most of the farmers used mixed feed which was bought from local market and 17% farmers used vitamin mineral supplementation. All farmers used natural breeding. About 80, 80 and 83% farmers practiced vaccination, de-worming and grooming, respectively. About 13% farmers used hormone, antibiotic and growth promoter and only 33% farmers remove sick or injured animal from healthy stock. All farmers allowed access to outdoor and pasturing during winter season and none reared male and female sheep separately. Farmers did not keep and kept their livestock record were 90 and 10%, respectively. Most of the farmers were middle aged categories (53%) and education level of farmers of primary, secondary and higher secondary were 63, 30 and 7%, respectively.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 10(2): 95-103 2017
Strategy Development Pilot Study of Sleep-Restricted Operators Using Small Satellites with Displays
Authors: Schneider Jonathan , Saenz-Otero Alvar , Klerman Elizabeth , Stirling Leia
Published: November 2018

INTRODUCTION: Sleep restriction may lead to decreased performance and increased accidents and errors. SPHERES, a small satellite testbed, was used to examine the effects of sleep restriction and situation awareness (SA) aids on a simulation of satellite operations.METHODS:
Subjects (N = 8) were trained on SPHERES, then, in a randomized order cross-over design, had 3 d of sufficient sleep (SS) or 3 d of sleep restriction (SR) before a testing session. Subjects controlled two SPHERES satellites in a space debris avoidance scenario. Dependent measures included
survival time, area covered by the satellites, and satellite motion perception.RESULTS: There were significant interaction effects of sleep protocol Order (SS or SR first) and sleep Condition (SS or SR) on survival time and area covered. Post hoc tests showed longer survival time
for the second testing session if the Order was SS first (Mean = 56.1 s, Median = 44.0 s) as compared to SR first (Mean = 42.7 s, Median = 33.5 s). SS-first subjects received benefit from added SA cues of the augmented display in perceiving the satellite motion.DISCUSSION: These
data support that learning in a well-rested state may support development of appropriate strategies for better performance. Subjects that were SS during the first session were better able to use added SA cues provided by the augmentation and may have then developed a better mental model of
the task and the system. This pilot study suggests that training guidelines for operating multiple robotic assets should permit appropriate rest before and after training to assist in mental model development and task performance.Schneider J, Saenz-Otero A, Klerman E, Stirling L. Strategy
development pilot study of sleep-restricted operators using small satellites with displays. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(12):1036–1044.
Acute Normobaric Hypoxia Exposure and Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption
Authors: Navalta James W. , Tanner Elizabeth A. , Bodell Nathaniel G.
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Excess postexercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) is an elevation in oxygen consumption (Vo2) following exercise. Altitude decreases maximal oxygen uptake; however, studies are equivocal concerning the effect on resting metabolic rate. The EPOC response has
not been studied with normobaric hypoxia. The purpose was to observe EPOC following constant-load cycling in normobaric hypoxia.METHODS: Subjects (N = 7 women, 7 men) completed resting metabolic rate testing between 06:00 and 08:30. Constant workload cycle exercise was performed
(10 min at 100 W) while breathing air from an altitude simulator under the following conditions: normoxic control (CON), 3353 m (11,001 ft; HI), and 6401 m (21,001 ft; EXT). Subjects completed remaining conditions in a counterbalanced order. Upon completion, participants were reconnected to
the metabolic system until a running 5-min average of Vo2 values returned to baseline (EPOC duration). Magnitude was determined by summing the net oxygen consumption each minute during the EPOC period. Data were analyzed using 2 × 3 repeated measures ANOVA.RESULTS:
No sex differences were detected for any variable. EPOC duration increased significantly at each simulated altitude increase (CON = 15.2 ± 1.9 vs. HI = 20.7 ± 1.7 min) (HI vs. EXT = 28.1 ± 2.6 min). Likewise, EPOC magnitude increased significantly at each simulated altitude
(CON = 73.5 ± 9.9 vs. HI = 99.1 ± 9.3 ml O2) (HI vs. EXT = 139.7 ± 14.3 ml O2).DISCUSSION: The EPOC response to simulated altitude represents elevated caloric expenditure that must be accounted for. Individuals who are active at altitude
must consider the increased caloric deficit despite a loss of appetite that is common with altitude exposure.Navalta JW, Tanner EA, Bodell NG. Acute normobaric hypoxia exposure and excess post-exercise oxygen consumption. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(12):1031–1035.
Army Aviators’ Perceptions of Advanced Cockpit Aircraft
Authors: Feltman Kathryn A. , Kelley Amanda M. , Curry Ian P.
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Perceptions of features of automation, such as its safety and effects on basic flying skills, can shape how someone uses automation and accepts newly developed technology. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate current U.S. Army rotary-wing aviators’
perspectives of cockpit automation in terms of safety features and effects on the retention of basic flying skills. In doing so, future lines of research can utilize this information to develop programs for the transitioning and training of advanced aircraft into the Army.METHODS:
An anonymous, 125-item questionnaire was completed by 214 U.S. Army aviators. A subset of five items related to perceptions of automation were examined based on experience level and are reported here. The majority of subjects were male aviators with a mean age of 33 yr.RESULTS:
Results suggest a difference in perceptions of some of the safety features, with 8 and 12% more of the experienced pilots reporting safety concerns on two items. A 13% difference in the perceptions of effects of automation on skills retention items were found based on experience level. More
experienced aviators’ responses identified possible distrust of several automation features.DISCUSSION: The findings of this survey identified perspectives of automation which differed based on experience level. Specifically, more experienced individuals indicated some distrust
of automation features and a possible overconfidence in basic flying skills. This can be used to further develop research aimed at the transition of advanced technology to aviators.Feltman KA, Kelley AM, Curry IP. Army aviators’ perceptions of advanced cockpit aircraft.
Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(12):1080–1084.
Sleeping in the Cave: Zechendorff's 1632 Latin Translation of the Qur'an
Authors: Glei Reinhold F.
Published: November 2018

Johann Zechendorff's (1580–1662) manuscript includes an interlinear Latin translation and a complete edition of the Arabic Qur'an. This article presents a thorough linguistic examination of a longer passage of the Latin translation of Sūrat al-Kahf (Q. 18), on the aṣḥāb al-kahf (‘the Companions of the Cave’). The aim is to give an impression of the difficulties which this European pioneer of Qur'anic studies faced when he embarked on this project. The article gives insights into Zechendorff's method of translation, his technical and linguistic abilities, as well as the shortcomings of his work. The shortcomings reflect the general standard of Arabic studies in Europe, the lack of sources and tools (such as dictionaries and tafsīrs), as well as the peripheral position of Zwickau, where this translation was produced.

In the Appendix, the reader will find the Latin text of Q. 18:9–26 (with critical apparatus) and an English word-by-word translation of this text.
Intravaginal Device-Type and Treatment-Length for Ovine Estrus Synchronization Modify Vaginal Mucus and Microbiota and Affect Fertility
Authors: Martinez-Ros Paula , Lozano Marta , Hernandez Fernando , Tirado Alejandra , Rios-Abellan Alejandro , López-Mendoza Maria , Gonzalez-Bulnes Antonio
Published: November 2018

Induction and synchronization of estrus and ovulation in sheep is based on intravaginal progestagen-impregnated polyurethane sponges or progesterone-loaded silicon-based devices (CIDR), in either short- (6–7 days) or long-term (12–14 days) protocols. Bearing in mind that the use of intravaginal sponges in long-term protocols has been related to the presence of vaginitis at removal, we compared the effects of sponges and CIDRs, maintained during either 7 or 14 days, on vaginal features (characteristics of vaginal mucus discharge, pH and microbiota) and fertility under field conditions. Almost all the ewes treated with intravaginal sponges showed vaginal discharge at device withdrawal, which was purulent and/or bloody in around 15% and 80% of the females treated for 7 and 14 days, respectively. The vaginal pH and microbiota changed in both groups when compared to control sheep, especially in ewes treated for 14 days, which showed a pH value around 8 and a higher incidence of Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. On the other hand, independently of the length of the treatment, only around 15–20% of the sheep treated with CIDRs evidenced vaginal discharge (p < 0.00005 when compared to sponge groups), and such discharge was scarce, clear, and showed no changes in vaginal pH and microbiota when compared to control sheep. Fertility yields were associated with vaginal features, being higher in both short-term treatments (75%) and the long-term CIDR-based treatment (70%) than in the long-term sponge-based treatment (45%).
Art of Recovery: Displacement, Mental Health, and Wellbeing
Authors: Rose Emma , Bingley Amanda , Rioseco Macarena , Lamb Kirsten
Published: November 2018

Art of Recovery explores the potential of a participatory arts engagement with place to contribute toward the recovery and reconnection of refugees who experience trauma. The study responded to the international challenge of refugees’ mental health as a global priority as they experience higher prevalence rates of severe mental health disorders in comparison with the general population. The role of participatory arts in contributing toward recovery and reconnection is growing, but policymakers and health professionals are constrained by the lack of research exploring its benefits. We worked with 14 participants in four participatory arts workshops exploring the benefits of artwork focusing on remembered or imagined healing places. A qualitative thematic analysis of the artwork drew on Herman’s theory of recovery identifying “remembrance”, “mourning”, and “reconnection” to assess the elements of potential recovery, including aspects of the participants’ experience of transition between their homeland and the United Kingdom (UK), and new social connections. In conclusion, the study suggests that participating in a group making artworks of places associated with safety may contribute to processes of transition and social connectedness, prompting in turn feelings of wellbeing. The study offers insights into arts and health issues of interest to refugee-supporting communities, health professionals and policymakers.
The Construction Kit and the Assembly Line—Walter Gropius’ Concepts for Rationalizing Architecture
Authors: Seelow Atli Magnus
Published: November 2018

With the breakthrough of modernism, various efforts were undertaken to rationalize architecture and building processes using industrial principles. Few architects explored these as intensively as Walter Gropius, the founder of the Bauhaus. Before World War One, and increasingly in the interwar years, Gropius and a number of colleagues undertook various experiments that manifested in a series of projects, essays, model houses and Siedlungen. These were aimed at conceptually different goals, i.e., they followed two different categories of industrial logic: First, a flexible construction kit and, second, an assembly line serial production. This article traces the genesis of these two concepts and analyses their characteristics using these early manifestations. Compared to existing literature, this article takes into account hitherto neglected primary sources, as well as technological and construction history aspects, allowing for a distinction based not only on theoretical, but also technological and structural characteristics. This article shows that Gropius succeeds in formulating and exploring the two principles, in theory and practice, as well as drawing conclusions by the end of the 1920s. With them, he contributed significantly to the rationalization of architecture, and his principles have been picked up and developed further by numerous architects since then.
Predicting the Biodegradation of Magnesium Alloy Implants: Modeling, Parameter Identification, and Validation
Authors: Amerinatanzi Amirhesam , Mehrabi Reza , Ibrahim Hamdy , Dehghan Amir , Shayesteh Moghaddam Narges , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: November 2018

Magnesium (Mg) and its alloys can degrade gradually up to complete dissolution in the physiological environment. This property makes these biomaterials appealing for different biomedical applications, such as bone implants. In order to qualify Mg and its alloys for bone implant applications, there is a need to precisely model their degradation (corrosion) behavior in the physiological environment. Therefore, the primary objective develop a model that can be used to predict the corrosion behavior of Mg-based alloys in vitro, while capturing the effect of pitting corrosion. To this end, a customized FORTRAN user material subroutine (or VUMAT) that is compatible with the finite element (FE) solver Abaqus/Explicit (Dassault Systèmes, Waltham, MA, USA) was developed. Using the developed subroutine, a continuum damage mechanism (CDM) FE model was developed to phenomenologically estimate the corrosion rate of a biocompatible Mg–Zn–Ca alloy. In addition, the mass loss immersion test was conducted to measure mass loss over time by submerging Mg–Zn–Ca coupons in a glass reactor filled with simulated body fluid (SBF) solution at pH 7.4 and 37 °C. Then, response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to calibrate the corrosion FE model parameters (i.e., Gamma (γ), Psi (ψ), Beta (β), and kinetic parameter (Ku)). The optimum values for γ, ψ, β and Ku were found to be 2.74898, 2.60477, 5.1, and 0.1005, respectively. Finally, given the good fit between FE predictions and experimental data, it was concluded that the numerical framework precisely captures the effect of corrosion on the mass loss over time.
Mitochondrial Quality Control Mechanisms and the PHB (Prohibitin) Complex
Authors: Hernando-Rodríguez Blanca , Artal-Sanz Marta
Published: November 2018

Mitochondrial functions are essential for life, critical for development, maintenance of stem cells, adaptation to physiological changes, responses to stress, and aging. The complexity of mitochondrial biogenesis requires coordinated nuclear and mitochondrial gene expression, owing to the need of stoichiometrically assemble the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system for ATP production. It requires, in addition, the import of a large number of proteins from the cytosol to keep optimal mitochondrial function and metabolism. Moreover, mitochondria require lipid supply for membrane biogenesis, while it is itself essential for the synthesis of membrane lipids. To achieve mitochondrial homeostasis, multiple mechanisms of quality control have evolved to ensure that mitochondrial function meets cell, tissue, and organismal demands. Herein, we give an overview of mitochondrial mechanisms that are activated in response to stress, including mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy and the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt). We then discuss the role of these stress responses in aging, with particular focus on Caenorhabditis elegans. Finally, we review observations that point to the mitochondrial prohibitin (PHB) complex as a key player in mitochondrial homeostasis, being essential for mitochondrial biogenesis and degradation, and responding to mitochondrial stress. Understanding how mitochondria responds to stress and how such responses are regulated is pivotal to combat aging and disease.
Brute Force Composition Scanning with a CALPHAD Database to Find Low Temperature Body Centered Cubic High Entropy Alloys
Authors: Klaver T. P. C. , Simonovic D. , Sluiter M. H. F.
Published: November 2018

We used the Thermo-Calc High Entropy Alloy CALPHAD database to determine the stable phases of AlCrMnNbTiV, AlCrMoNbTiV, AlCrFeTiV and AlCrMnMoTi alloys from 800 to 2800 K. The concentrations of elements were varied from 1–49 atom%. A five- or six-dimensional grid is constructed, with stable phases calculated at each grid point. Thermo-Calc was used as a massive parallel tool and three million compositions were calculated, resulting in tens of thousands of compositions for which the alloys formed a single disordered body centered cubic (bcc) phase at 800 K. By filtering out alloy compositions for which a disordered single phase persists down to 800 K, composition ‘islands’ of high entropy alloys are determined in composition space. The sizes and shapes of such islands provide information about which element combinations have good high entropy alloy forming qualities as well as about the role of individual elements within an alloy. In most cases disordered single phases are formed most readily at low temperature when several elements are almost entirely excluded, resulting in essentially ternary alloys. We determined which compositions lie near the centers of the high entropy alloy islands and therefore remain high entropy islands under small composition changes. These island center compositions are predicted to be high entropy alloys with the greatest certainty and make good candidates for experimental verification. The search for high entropy islands can be conducted subject to constraints, e.g., requiring a minimum amount of Al and/or Cr to promote oxidation resistance. Imposing such constraints rapidly diminishes the number of high entropy alloy compositions, in some cases to zero. We find that AlCrMnNbTiV and AlCrMoNbTiV are relatively good high entropy alloy formers, AlCrFeTiV is a poor high entropy alloy former, while AlCrMnMoTi is a poor high entropy alloy former at 800 K but quickly becomes a better high entropy alloy former with increasing temperature.
Estimation of the Time-Varying High-Intensity Heat Flux for a Two-Layer Hollow Cylinder
Authors: Zhang Lihui , Chen Zhenzhen , Wen Donghui , Wang Xudong , Zhang Daqian , Liang Jun
Published: November 2018

Gun barrels are subjected to time-varying high-intensity heat flux under multiple firing, which may damage the material and limit the overall performance of the gun. In order to monitor the thermal state of a gun barrel, an inverse method coupling the finite difference method with the sequential function specification method was developed to estimate the unknown time-varying heat flux imposed on the inner wall of a gun barrel. A two-layer hollow cylindrical tube was assumed with the convection heat transfer boundary condition on the outer wall of the tube. A direct heat transfer model was developed, and was used to estimate the temporal distribution of boundary heat flux in approximately real time based on the measured transient temperature at some positions on the outer wall of the gun barrel. Numerical tests were performed to verify the effectiveness and reliability of this method by investigating the influence of temperature measurement noises and future time step selection. The results show that the proposed method has high precision and efficiency in extracting the time-varying heat flux under one-shot and three-shot firing conditions. When there is a measurement noise, this method has good anti-illness characteristics and can achieve better results by appropriately selecting the value of a future time step.
Optimization and Experimental Study of the Semi-Closed Short-Gap Arc-Extinguishing Chamber Based on a Magnetohydrodynamics Model
Authors: Jia Wenbin , Sima Wenxia , Yuan Tao , Yang Ming , Sun Potao
Published: November 2018

The multi-chamber arc-extinguishing structure (MAS), which consists of a lot of semi-closed short-gap arc-extinguishing chambers (SSAC) in series, can be used in parallel gap lightning protection devices to improve the ability to extinguish power frequency follow current. The arc-extinguishing ability of single SSAC directly affects the arc-extinguishing performance of the whole MAS. Therefore, the arc-extinguishing performance of MAS can be improved by optimizing single SSACs. A two-dimensional model of the arc plasma in a SSAC is built based on the magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) theory. The motion characteristics of an arc in the SSAC are simulated and analyzed. An optimization method of the SSAC structure is proposed. Finally, an impact test platform is built to verify the effectiveness of the optimized SSAC structure. Results show that the short-gap arc forms a high-speed airflow in the SSAC and the arc plasma sprays rapidly to the outlet until the arc is extinguished at its current zero-crossing point. The amplitude of airflow velocity in the optimized structure can be increased to about 8-fold the velocity in the basic structure. Experiments also show that the dissipation time of an arc in the optimized SSAC is 79.2 μs, which is much less than that in the original structure (422.4 μs).
The Extraordinary Linear Polarisation Structure of the Southern Centaurus A Lobe Revealed by ASKAP
Authors: Anderson Craig S. , Heald George , O’Sullivan Shane P. , Bunton John D. , Carretti Ettore , Chippendale Aaron P. , Collier Jordan D. , Farnes Jamie S. , Gaensler Bryan M. , Harvey-Smith Lisa , Koribalski Bärbel S. , Landecker Tom L. , Lenc Emil , McClure-Griffiths Naomi M. , Mitchell Daniel , Rudnick Lawrence , West Jennifer
Published: November 2018

We present observations of linear polarisation in the southern radio lobe of Centaurus A, conducted during commissioning of the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) telescope. We used 16 antennas to observe a 30 square degree region in a single 12-h pointing over a 240 MHz band centred on 913 MHz. Our observations achieve an angular resolution of 26 × 33 arcseconds (480 parsecs), a maximum recoverable angular scale of 30 arcminutes, and a full-band sensitivity of 85 μ Jy beam − 1 . The resulting maps of polarisation and Faraday rotation are amongst the most detailed ever made for radio lobes, with order 10 5 resolution elements covering the source. We describe several as-yet unreported observational features of the lobe, including its detailed peak Faraday depth structure, and intricate networks of depolarised filaments. These results demonstrate the exciting capabilities of ASKAP for widefield radio polarimetry.
A New Strategic Approach to Successful Aging and Healthy Aging
Authors: Wong Roger Y.
Published: November 2018

Successful aging is not a new concept, although its definition remains controversial, because of its multi-dimensional nature. [...]
Physical Characteristics Vary According to Body Mass Index in Japanese Community-Dwelling Elderly Women
Authors: Nonaka Koji , Murata Shin , Shiraiwa Kayoko , Abiko Teppei , Nakano Hideki , Iwase Hiroaki , Naito Koichi , Horie Jun
Published: November 2018

Background: Body mass index (BMI) is related to health in the elderly. The purpose of this study was to investigate the physical characteristics in underweight, overweight, and obese Japanese community-dwelling elderly women compared to normal-weight elderly women. Methods: The study participants included 212 community-dwelling elderly women. They were categorized as underweight (BMI < 18.5), normal weight (18.5 ≤ BMI ≤ 22.9), overweight (23 ≤ BMI ≤ 24.9), and obese (BMI ≥ 25). Data on skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), number of trunk curl-ups performed within 30 seconds, knee extension strength, one-leg standing time, and walking speed were recorded. Results: In the underweight group, the number of trunk curl-ups was significantly lower than that of the normal-weight group (p = 0.011) and the correlation between knee extension strength and walking speed was relatively higher than in the normal-weight group (r = 0.612 vs. r = 0.471). In the overweight group, the SMI was significantly increased (p < 0.001), but knee extension strength was not increased (p = 0.235) compared to that of the normal-weight group. In the obese group, one-leg standing time was significantly shorter than in the normal-weight group (p = 0.016). Conclusions: Physical characteristics vary according to BMI and these findings are useful in assessing and planning interventional programs to improve and maintain physical function in elderly women.
Impact of Previous Physical Activity Levels on Symptomatology, Functionality, and Strength during an Acute Exacerbation in COPD Patients
Authors: López-López Laura , Torres-Sánchez Irene , Romero-Fernández Ramón , Granados-Santiago María , Rodríguez-Torres Janet , Valenza Marie Carmen
Published: November 2018

The main objective of this study is to determine the relationship between physical activity (PA) level prior to hospitalization and the pulmonary symptomatology, functionality, exercise capacity, and strength of acute exacerbated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. In this observational study, all data were taken during the patient’s first day in hospital. Patients were divided into two groups (a PA group, and a physical inactivity (PI) group), according to the PA level evaluated by the Baecke questionnaire. Cough status was evaluated by the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ), and dyspnea was assessed using the modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (mMRC). Functionality was measured by the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and the London Chest Activity of Daily Living scale (LCADL). Exercise capacity was evaluated by the two-minute step-in-place (2MSP) test, and strength assessed by dynamometry. A total of 151 patients were included in this observational study. Patients in the PI group obtained worse results compared to the PA group, and significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in all of the variables. Those COPD patients who regularly perform PA have less dyspnea and cough, as well as better functionality, exercise capacity and strength during an exacerbation, without relationship to the severity of the pathology.
Fruit Stem-End Rot
Authors: Galsurker Ortal , Diskin Sonia , Maurer Dalia , Feygenberg Oleg , Alkan Noam
Published: November 2018

After harvest, the fruit ripens and stem-end rot (SER) starts to develop, leading to significant fruit losses. SER is caused by diverse pathogenic fungi that endophytically colonize the stem during fruit development in the orchard or field and remain quiescent until the onset of fruit ripening. During the endophytic-like stage, the pathogenic fungus colonizes the phloem and xylem of the fruit stem-end; after fruit ripening, the fungus converts to a necrotrophic lifestyle, while colonizing the fruit parenchyma, and causes SER. The fruit stem-end is colonized not only by pathogenic fungi, but also by various nonpathogenic endophytic microorganisms, including fungi, yeast and bacteria. However, little is known about the fruit stem-end endophytic microbiome, which could contain new and existing biocontrol agents. To control fruit SER, treatments such as ripening inhibition, harvesting with the stem, application of chemical or biological fungicides, or physical control such as heat treatments, cold storage, or exposure to light have been suggested. This review focuses on the characterization of SER pathogens, the stem-end microbiome, and different pre- and postharvest practices that could control fruit SER.
How to Contextualize SDG 11? Looking at Indicators for Sustainable Urban Development in Germany
Authors: Koch Florian , Krellenberg Kerstin
Published: November 2018

Agenda 2030 pursues a universal approach and identifies countries in the Global South and in the Global North that are in need of transformation toward sustainability. Therefore, countries of the Global North such as Germany have signed the commitment to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, the SDGs need to be “translated” to the specific national context. Existing sustainability indicators and monitoring and reporting systems need to be adjusted as well. Our paper evaluates how three different initiatives translated SDG 11 (“Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable”) to the German context, given the specific role of cities in contributing to sustainable development. These initiatives included the official ‘National Sustainable Development Strategy’ of the German Government, a scientific initiative led by the ‘German Institute for Urban Affairs’, and a project carried out by the ‘Open Knowledge Foundation’, a non-governmental organization (NGO). This article aims to analyze how global goals addressing urban developments are contextualized on a national level. Our findings demonstrate that only a few of the original targets and indicators for SDG 11 are used in the German context; thus, major adjustments have been made according to the main sustainability challenges identified for Germany. Furthermore, our results show that the current contextualization of SDG 11 and sustainable urban development in Germany are still ongoing, and more changes and commitments need to be made.
The Persisting Significance of Oligoclonal Bands in the Dawning Era of Kappa Free Light Chains for the Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Schwenkenbecher Philipp , Konen Franz Felix , Wurster Ulrich , Jendretzky Konstantin Fritz , Gingele Stefan , Sühs Kurt-Wolfram , Pul Refik , Witte Torsten , Stangel Martin , Skripuletz Thomas
Published: November 2018

The latest revision of the McDonald criteria of 2017 considers the evidence of an intrathecal immunoglobulin (IgG) synthesis as a diagnostic criterion for dissemination in time in multiple sclerosis. While the detection of oligoclonal bands is considered as the gold standard, determination of kappa free light chains might be a promising tool as a less technically demanding and cost saving method. However, data on the direct comparison between kappa free light chains and oligoclonal bands are limited and no study to date has used the highly sensitive method of polyacrylamide gels with consecutive silver staining for the demonstration of oligoclonal bands. Furthermore, the impact of the revised McDonald criteria of 2017 on the role of kappa free light chains as a biomarker has not been investigated. Nephelometry was used to determine kappa free light chains in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum from 149 patients with their first demyelinating event between 2010 and 2015. Clinical data, kappa free light chains, and oligoclonal band status were compared at the time of initial diagnosis and after follow-up to identify converters from clinically isolated syndrome to multiple sclerosis. An elevated kappa free light chain index (>5.9) was found in 79/83 patients (95%) with multiple sclerosis diagnosed at baseline, slightly less frequent than oligoclonal bands (98.8%). 18/25 (72%) patients who converted from clinically isolated syndrome to multiple sclerosis showed an elevated kappa free light chain index compared to 20/25 (80%) patients with positive oligoclonal bands. In patients with stable clinically isolated syndrome 7/41 (17%) displayed an elevated kappa free light chain index against 11/41 (27%) oligoclonal band positive patients. Only two patients with stable clinically isolated syndrome showed an elevated kappa free light chain index but were oligoclonal bands negative. In conclusion, determination of the kappa free light chain index is a promising diagnostic approach to assess intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis in multiple sclerosis. Nevertheless, oligoclonal bands are highly prevalent in multiple sclerosis and can detect an intrathecal synthesis of IgG even when the kappa free light chain index is below the threshold. We consider sequential use of both methods as reasonable.
A Novel Marker of Inflammation: Azurocidin in Patients with ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ipek Emrah , Yolcu Mustafa , Yildirim Erkan , Altinkaynak Konca , Ozbek Sebin Saime , Kalkan Kamuran , Gulcu Oktay , Ermis Emrah , Ozturk Mustafa
Published: November 2018

(1) To investigate the role of azurocidin, an antimicrobial protein, in patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). (2) This single-center prospective observational study included patients with STEMI and healthy age- and sex-matched control subjects. Baseline demographic, clinical and biochemical data were compared between the two groups. Azurocidin levels at baseline were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Multivariate linear regression analysis with enter method was used to test the association between azurocidin and independent variables, such as the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) score, synergy between percutaneous coronary intervention with TAXUS and cardiac surgery score, global registry of acute coronary events score, Killip class, C-reactive protein (CRP), and creatinine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB). (3) A total of 76 patients with STEMI and 30 healthy control subjects were enrolled in the study. Mean ± SD azurocidin levels were significantly higher in patients compared with healthy controls (18.07 ± 13.99 versus 10.09 ± 5.29 ng/mL, respectively). In a receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, an azurocidin cut-off level of >11.46 ng/mL had 74% sensitivity and 58% specificity in predicting myocardial infarction. Azurocidin levels had a positive correlation with TIMI score (r = 0.651). In multivariate linear regression analysis, the TIMI score was an independent predictor of the azurocidin level. (4) Azurocidin is an infection marker that may be important in patients with STEMI.
Original Macromolecular Architectures Based on poly(ε-caprolactone) and poly(ε-thiocaprolactone) Grafted onto Chitosan Backbone
Authors: Ünlü Cüneyt H. , Pollet Eric , Avérous Luc
Published: November 2018

Polyester and/or polythioester grafted chitosan copolymers were synthesized. For that, poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), poly(ε-thiocaprolactone) (PTCL), and their copolymers were first synthesized by ring opening polymerization. Copolymers with caprolactone:thiocaprolactone (CL:TCL) molar ratios of 2:1, 1:1, 1:2 were synthesized. All of the synthesized macromolecular architectures were characterized using different spectral (Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD)) and thermal (Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)) methods. Grafting was then performed according two distinct routes: (i) using a blend of both homopolymers (PCL and PTCL) or (ii) using pre-synthesized copolymers with controlled CL:TCL ratios. Hexamethylene diisocyanate was used as a grafting/coupling agent through urethane bonds with high yield. Grafting preferentially occurred at sulfur sites. The results indicated that PTCL is more reactive and favorable than PCL for grafting onto chitosan. With the homopolymers blend grafting route, the corresponding materials mostly had a higher PTCL portion than expected. To obtain polyester grafted chitosan with a determined CL:TCL ratio, the copolymer grafting route would yield better results.
Osteogenesis of Multipotent Progenitor Cells using the Epigallocatechin Gallate-Modified Gelatin Sponge Scaffold in the Rat Congenital Cleft-Jaw Model
Authors: Sasayama Satoshi , Hara Tomoya , Tanaka Tomonari , Honda Yoshitomo , Baba Shunsuke
Published: November 2018

Cost-effective and functionalized scaffolds are in high demand for stem-cell-based regenerative medicine to treat refractory bone defects in craniofacial abnormalities and injuries. One potential strategy is to utilize pharmacological and cost-effective plant polyphenols and biocompatible proteins, such as gelatin. Nevertheless, the use of chemically modified proteins with plant polyphenols in this strategy has not been standardized. Here, we demonstrated that gelatin chemically modified with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the major catechin isolated from green tea, can be a useful material to induce bone regeneration in a rat congenial cleft-jaw model in vivo when used with/without adipose-derived stem cells or dedifferentiated fat cells. Vacuum-heated gelatin sponges modified with EGCG (vhEGCG-GS) induced superior osteogenesis from these two cell types compared with vacuum-heated gelatin sponges (vhGS). The EGCG-modification converted the water wettability of vhGS to a hydrophilic property (contact angle: 110° to 3.8°) and the zeta potential to a negative surface charge; the modification enhanced the cell adhesion property and promoted calcium phosphate precipitation. These results suggest that the EGCG-modification with chemical synthesis can be a useful platform to modify the physicochemical property of gelatin. This alteration is likely to provide a preferable microenvironment for multipotent progenitor cells, inducing superior bone formation in vivo.
Mutations Utilize Dynamic Allostery to Confer Resistance in TEM-1 β-lactamase
Authors: Modi Tushar , Ozkan S. Banu
Published: November 2018

β-lactamases are enzymes produced by bacteria to hydrolyze β-lactam antibiotics as a common mechanism of resistance. Evolution in such enzymes has been rendering a wide variety of antibiotics impotent, therefore posing a major threat. Clinical and in vitro studies of evolution in TEM-1 β-lactamase have revealed a large number of single point mutations that are responsible for driving resistance to antibiotics and/or inhibitors. The distal locations of these mutations from the active sites suggest that these allosterically modulate the antibiotic resistance. We investigated the effects of resistance driver mutations on the conformational dynamics of the enzyme to provide insights about the mechanism of their long-distance interactions. Through all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we obtained the dynamic flexibility profiles of the variants and compared those with that of the wild type TEM-1. While the mutational sites in the variants did not have any direct van der Waals interactions with the active site position S70 and E166, we observed a change in the flexibility of these sites, which play a very critical role in hydrolysis. Such long distance dynamic interactions were further confirmed by dynamic coupling index (DCI) analysis as the sites involved in resistance driving mutations exhibited high dynamic coupling with the active sites. A more exhaustive dynamic analysis, using a selection pressure for ampicillin and cefotaxime resistance on all possible types of substitutions in the amino acid sequence of TEM-1, further demonstrated the observed mechanism. Mutational positions that play a crucial role for the emergence of resistance to new antibiotics exhibited high dynamic coupling with the active site irrespective of their locations. These dynamically coupled positions were neither particularly rigid nor particularly flexible, making them more evolvable positions. Nature utilizes these sites to modulate the dynamics of the catalytic sites instead of mutating the highly rigid positions around the catalytic site.
Selenium Nanoparticle Synthesized by Proteus mirabilis YC801: An Efficacious Pathway for Selenite Biotransformation and Detoxification
Authors: Wang Yuting , Shu Xian , Hou Jinyan , Lu Weili , Zhao Weiwei , Huang Shengwei , Wu Lifang
Published: November 2018

Selenite is extremely biotoxic, and as a result of this, exploitation of microorganisms able to reduce selenite to non-toxic elemental selenium (Se0) has attracted great interest. In this study, a bacterial strain exhibiting extreme tolerance to selenite (up to 100 mM) was isolated from the gut of adult Monochamus alternatus and identified as Proteus mirabilis YC801. This strain demonstrated efficient transformation of selenite into red selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) by reducing nearly 100% of 1.0 and 5.0 mM selenite within 42 and 48 h, respectively. Electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis demonstrated that the SeNPs were spherical and primarily localized extracellularly, with an average hydrodynamic diameter of 178.3 ± 11.5 nm. In vitro selenite reduction activity assays and real-time PCR indicated that thioredoxin reductase and similar proteins present in the cytoplasm were likely to be involved in selenite reduction, and that NADPH or NADH served as electron donors. Finally, Fourier-transform infrared spectral analysis confirmed the presence of protein and lipid residues on the surfaces of SeNPs. This is the first report on the capability of P. mirabilis to reduce selenite to SeNPs. P. mirabilis YC801 might provide an eco-friendly approach to bioremediate selenium-contaminated soil/water, as well as a bacterial catalyst for the biogenesis of SeNPs.