bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leadership of School’s Headmaster in Taking Decision of Curriculum Development in The State Elementary School (SDN) 101786 Helvetia, Deli Serdang District
Authors: Tanjung Nurtuah , Daulay Nurika Khalila
Published: October 2019

This study aims to describe the principal's leadership in decision-making curriculum development at Elementary School 101786 Helvetia Research includes principal leadership, decision-making, and curriculum development. This research uses qualitative research type with case study approach. The location of the research is Elementary School 101786 Helvetia District Labuhan Deli Deli Serdang Regency North Sumatra Province Source. The method according to the title of this study researchers using qualitative approach, the data in this study is, principals, teachers, school committee. The conclusions of this research are: 1. Leadership of principal in decision making of curriculum development at elementary school 101786 Helvetia "to make decision of curriculum development by making decision involving party, such as teacher, school committee, school supervisor, and decision making staff coordination meetings, in a participatory manner ".2. Leadership behavior, principals point to the style and strategy of a principal performing the principal's leadership task. Among the principal's effective leadership behaviors, although they still need to be improved for better, can be seen in the leadership style that always brings in coordination meetings with school committees, school supervisors, teachers and staff. 3. The principal's strategy in informing the decision-making result of curriculum development between headmaster and teacher is done directly in the form of face to face and indirectly in the form of telephone, sms, or letter.
Prognostic Impact of Histopathology in Patients with Advanced Stage Cervical Carcinoma Treated with Radiotherapy
Authors: Hossain Nasrin , Perveen Rahana , Mahmud Mohammed Sharif , Hassan Mohammed Kabirul
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwidev . Most patients in developing countries including Bangladesh present at advanced stage. Histopathological types of cervical cancer influence the treatment outcome when treated by radiation therapy.

Objective: To determine the disease free survival (DFS) in different histopathological types in advanced stage cervical carcinoma treated with radiotherapy.

Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in Gynaecological oncology outpatient department (GOPD) of National institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH), Dhaka for one year from September’2016 to July’2017. Advanced stage (IIB-IVB) cervical cancer who completed radiation therapy and histopathological type either squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma of cervix were included in this study.

Results: The median follow-up time was 1.82 years; range was 8 to 24 months. Average disease free survival (DFS) was 1.53years in squamous cell carcinoma (SSC) and 1.51 years in adenocarcinoma (ADC). Local recurrences was higher in adenocarcinoma group (62.5%) than squamous cell carcinoma (30.5%) & the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.001). Loco-regional recurrence and distal recurrence were also higher in ADC than SSC but results were not statistically significant (p=.345, p=.795). In multivariate analysis it was shown that histopathological type and stage of disease were found to be independently significant prognostic factors for DFS, hazard ratio were 1.766 (p=.018) and 2.173 (p=.006).

Conclusion: Adenocarcinoma was a poor prognostic factor for patients with locally advanced cervical carcinoma. Advanced stage of disease was also significant predictor for disease free survival.

J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2019; 37(4): 175-180
Azygos Lobe Detected by Thoracic Computed Tomography and Frequency of Concomitant Variations
Authors: Perincek Gökhan , Avci Sema , Çeltikçi Pinar
Published: October 2019

Background: The azygos lobe is a rare variation of the right upper lobe of the lung, and prevalence of it in the general population varies widely between 0.1% and 8%. It can be diagnosed easily by thoracic computed tomography.

Objective: In this study, by thoracic computed tomography, azygos lobe frequency and associated variations were evaluated.

Materials and Methods: In this study, 5854 thoracic computed tomography with and without contrast applied for patients in the Kars Harakani State Hospital Chest Diseases Polyclinic between January 2014 and January 2018 were screened retrospectively.

Results: A total of 5854 thoracic computed tomography showed that frequency of azygos lobe was 1.09%. Out of 64 patients with azygos lobe, 36 (56.25%) were male and 28 (43.75%) were female. Bovine artery was found in 8 (12.5%) cases, right-left carotid artery common origin in 3 (4.68%) and aberrant right subclavian artery in 1 (1.56%).

Conclusion: The detected azygos lobe frequency is similar to literature and the most common accompanying variation is bovine artery.

J Enam Med Col 2019; 9(3): 177-180
Demographics and Saving Behavior of Households in Rural Areas of Vietnam: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Thi Minh , Nguyen Hong Nhat , Trinh Trong Anh , Phung Minh Duc , Le Thai Son
Published: October 2019

This paper studies the saving behavior of rural households in Vietnam from two aspects: volume of savings and methods of saving. Two econometric models are conducted, the first one is a panel data model, used to examine the determinants of household saving; and the second one is a multinomial logit model used to investigate how a household chooses the way to save. Both models are based on the life cycle theory of saving and the permanent income hypothesis. We find that the household head’s age, education and gender are closely related to their saving behavior. And the impact of these variables takes different patterns between the two models. The results are useful for further research in forecasting household savings as well as in micro finance to find a better way of serving people who live in rural areas.
KAJIAN SISTEM KINERJA PLTS OFF-GRID 1 kWp DI STT-PLN
Authors: Jurnal Redaksi Tim
Published: October 2019

The Solar Power Plant Off-Grid 1 kWp at STT-PLN is one of the power plants built at STT-PLN to support renewable energy research, especially solar power generation. Since the solar power plant Off-Grid 1 kWp in STT-PLN has not yet known the optimum potential of electrical energy, the final yield (YF), the performance ratio (PR), and the efficiency of the system which is the parameters of a plant's performance Solar power. It is therefore necessary to analyze the performance of the solar power plant Off-Grid 1 kWp in STT-PLN, in order to know the operating system and the constraints that occur in the solar power plant Off-Grid 1 kWp in STT-PLN. To know the working parameters of Off-Grid 1 kWp in STT-PLN then do the research before and after maintenance of solar powerplant. Where final yield (YF), performance ratio (PR) before maintenance is 1.71343 Wh / Wp.day; 51.78%. While after maintenance of 3.10121 Wh / Wp.day; And 79.29%. From this research also obtained the efficiency of Off-Grid 1 kWp solar power system in STTPLN as a whole by 80,40%.
Uses, Confl icts and RegulatiUses, Confl icts and Regulations in Micro-places: The Case of Early Modern Lyonsons in Micro-places: The Case of Early Modern Lyons
Authors: Zeller Olivier
Published: October 2019

The utilization of a GIS (Geographical Information System) permits the highlighting of urban strategies seen through textual fonts in early modern Lyons. The town council applied a long-lasting micro-urbanism aiming to improve traffic, to enlarge squares and to control the spatial usage. However, popular culture remained very reluctant, defending two kinds of appropriation. Streets and squares were considered a normal extension of professional premises, and militia units often came into conflict over shared parade grounds.
The development of methods for the determination of residues of the insecticide pymetrozine in water, soil, cucumber and rape
Authors: Zayats Mikhail F. , Leschev Sergey M.
Published: October 2019

Based on the literature data on the solubility of pymetrozine in water and organic solvents, as well as experimental data on the extraction of pymetrozine from water, soil and plant matrices, the optimal conditions for the extraction of pymetrozine from water; soil; cucumber; rape seeds, oil and green pods were selected. The conditions for cleaning extracts were selected as well. At the first stage, acetonitrile, a mixture of dichloromethane – isopropanol, or a mixture of dichloromethane – methanol in the presence or absence of inorganic salts were used for extraction of the pesticide. Pymetrozine was found to be a highly hydrophilic substance. For the purification of extracts of pymetrozine from plant matrices the extraction systems hexane – 0.02 mol/L aqueous solution of orthophosphoric acid, hexane or chloroform – aqueous solutions of ammonium sulfate were successfully used. The samples, obtained after this treatment, were pure enough to determine the residual amounts of pymetrozine in them at the maximum residue level (MRL), determined in Russia and the countries of the European Union, or lower using widespread liquid chromatography with diode-array (ultraviolet) detection.
Contribution of women entrepreneurs’ initiatives to community welfare in Kanjongo, Nyamasheke District, Rwanda
Authors: Sibomana Providence , Ingabire Aline
Published: October 2019

Entrepreneurship has been a male-dominated phenomenon from the very early age, but time has changed the situation and brought women as today's most memorable and inspirational entrepreneurs. In almost all the developed countries in the world women are putting their steps at par with the men to increase the productivity of their society. This study has been done purposely to show the contribution of women in country development starting from them towards surroundings in Kanjongo sector of Nyamasheke district, Western province of Rwanda. The socioeconomic contribution of women in community development has been assessed using interview; the economic benefits analysis has been conducted to compare the women entrepreneurs’ status before and after being engaged in entrepreneurial activity. The results indicated that 37.21% of women contributed to the payment of health insurance for themselves and families while they were only 15.12% before. The capacity of paying school fees for their children has increased from 12.79% to 24.42%. The capacity of saving above 50,000 Frw has grown up from 27.91% to 62.8%. Their tax payment capability was raised from 19.77% to 100% as well as the capacity of having domestic animal which has risen from 27.91% to 100%. The construction of houses, job creation and food security also were known as fields where women used their earnings. Women entrepreneurs revealed challenges of lacking experience and skills at a level of 47.67%.  These findings show that women entrepreneurs should be more sensitized on the importance of taking entrepreneurships initiatives and the government should organize short and long trainings to women to enhance their entrepreneurships skills and sustain their businesses.
The Role of the Public-Private Partnerships in Widening Access to Tertiary Education in Rwanda: Evidences and Challenges
Authors: Ntawiha Philothere , Odebero Stephen O. , Nshimiyimana Justin , Nshimiyimana Justin , Ndikumana Joseph , Mukarwego  Nasiforo Beth
Published: October 2019

Education is a key instrument for any nations’ economic, political, and social development. This is because education increases productivity of workers, reduces criminal activities, reduces mortality rates, and controls birth rates among many others. To these ends, governments assume the responsibility for providing and financing education. However, due to limited resources, governments, particularly in low and middle income countries are not able to respond to the high need and demand for education. It is in this perspective that governments have to explore diverse ways of financing and providing education. They therefore involve the private sector in financing and management of educational institutions. The purpose of this study was therefore to examine the role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in widening access to higher education in Rwanda. Specifically, it tried to find out the extent to which PPPs has widened access to tertiary education in Rwanda, to highlight different forms of PPPs in Rwandan tertiary education and finally to explore different challenges to PPPs in Rwandan tertiary education. The study was a critical review critical review of different educational documents about the role of the public-private partnership in education. The study revealed that PPPs has considerably widened access to tertiary education. It was also revealed that PPPs take the form privately managed educational institutions, public and private organizations offering scholarships to students and the purchase of educational services from private sector by the government. It was finally revealed that lack of qualified staff, limited financing, and lack of policy and framework are key challenges to PPPs in tertiary education. Hence, government was recommended to develop clear PPPs policy and framework governing PPPs and both public and private sectors to strengthen PPPs to widen access to tertiary education for country sustainable development.
En búsqueda del eterno verano. Atracción y rechazo en el proceso de la transmigración placentera en España y México
Authors: Lizárraga Morales Omar
Published: October 2019

This paper describes and analyzes the stages of the process of what is known in Spanish as Transmigración Placentera. The description of the phenomenon, we do it since the “Push- Pull” theoretical approach, which posits that human mobility responds to rational valuations by comparing elements in the place of origin and destination. In particular, we focus on describing and comparing the mobility of UK citizens who migrate to El Campello, Spain, and US citizens moving to Mazatlan, Mexico.
Two Poems
Authors: Vermette Katherena
Published: October 2019

Two Poems by Katherena Vermette
PROGRAMAS SOCIODUCACIONAIS
Authors: Langhi Celi , Bonini Luci Mendes de Melo , Mattaraia Marina , Alonso Nilton
Published: October 2019

O objetivo deste estudo é analisar as ações desenvolvidas no Programa Caminhos para a Cidadania. Esse Programa faz parte de uma ação socioducacional, integrada às práticas de sustentabilidade e responsabilidade do Grupo CCR, empresa brasileira que atua no segmento de concessão de infraestrutura. A meta do Programa é desenvolver, articular, implantar, mobilizar e coordenar projetos, ações, campanhas e iniciativas que valorizem a conscientização social nas áreas de segurança no trânsito e proteção ambiental. Além de disseminar noções de segurança no trânsito, cidadania e respeito ao meio ambiente, procura resguardar vidas, reduzir índices de acidentes e preservar o meio. Sua abrangência envolve, atualmente, a parceria com as redes públicas de 117 municípios, de quatro estados brasileiros. Foi realizada uma pesquisa com abordagem qualitativa, com método de estudo de caso, com caráter exploratório e descritivo. Os resultados indicaram que os recursos oferecidos pelo Programa (encontros temáticos, materiais didáticos e atividades complementares) proporcionam integração do tema tranversal Educação no Trânsito, com os objetivos das disciplinas curriculares, respeitando o projeto pedagógico da escola e de série/ano, possibilitando uma interação entre diferentes realidades, habilidades e conhecimentos que, gradativamente, ligam a educação no trânsito e a educação ambiental ao planejamento escolar, de acordo com as possibilidades das cidades parceiras, dos educadores e dos interesses de seus alunos.
RETRACTED: Platelet-Derived Exosomal MicroRNA-25-3p Inhibits Coronary Vascular Endothelial Cell Inflammation Through Adam10 via the NF-κB Signaling Pathway in ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Yao Ye , Sun Weidong , Sun Qingfeng , Jing Bao , Liu Siqi , Liu Xinyu , Shen Guanghui , Chen Ru , Wang Haiyang
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Coronary artery disease originates from the blockage of the inner walls of the coronary arteries due to a plaque buildup. Accumulating studies have highlighted the role of microRNAs (miRs) delivered by exosomes in the progression of coronary artery disease. Thus, the current study was to elucidate the role and mechanism by which miR-25-3p influences oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced coronary vascular endothelial cell (CVEC) inflammation.

Methods: Primarily isolated CVECs were treated with ox-LDL to induce inflammation. Atherosclerosis models were induced in ApoE−/− mice and the peripheral blood platelet exosomes (PLT-Exo) were extracted and induced by thrombin, followed by co-culture with CVECs. The relationship between miR-25-3p and A disintegrin and metalloprotease 10 (Adam10) as well as the involvement of the NF-κB signaling pathway was evaluated. In order to evaluate the effect of PLT-Exo containing miR-25-3p on ox-LDL-induced CVEC inflammation, lipid accumulation and fibrosis, miR-25-3p mimic/inhibitor (in vitro), miR-25-3p agomir (in vivo), and si-Adam10 were delivered.

Results: MiR-25-3p was expressed poorly in ox-LDL-induced CVECs and vascular tissues but exhibited high levels of expression in thrombin-induced PLT-Exo of atherosclerosis models of ApoE−/− mice. CVECs endocytosed PLT-Exo upregulated the miR-25-3p expression. Adam10 was identified as a target gene of miR-25-3p. The thrombin-induced activated PLT-Exo carrying miR-25-3p reduced Adam10 expression to inhibit ox-LDL-induced CVEC inflammation and lipid deposition through downregulating levels of α-smooth muscle actin, Collagen I a1, Collagen III a1, triglycerides, total cholesterol, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Furthermore, the NF-κB signaling pathway participated in the inhibitory effect of PLT-Exo carrying miR-25-3p.

Conclusion: Collectively, PLT-Exo overexpressing miR-25-3p attenuates ox-LDL-induced CVEC inflammation in ApoE−/− mouse models of atherosclerosis.
Bowtie Methodology for Risk Analysis of Visual Borescope Inspection during Aircraft Engine Maintenance
Authors: Aust Jonas , Pons Dirk
Published: October 2019

Background—The inspection of aircraft parts is critical, as a defective part has many potentially adverse consequences. Faulty parts can initiate a system failure on an aircraft, which can lead to aircraft mishap if not well managed and has the potential to cause fatalities and serious injuries of passengers and crew. Hence, there is value in better understanding the risks in visual inspection during aircraft maintenance. Purpose—This paper identifies the risks inherent in visual inspection tasks during aircraft engine maintenance and how it differs from aircraft operations. Method—A Bowtie analysis was performed, and potential hazards, threats, consequences, and barriers were identified based on semi-structured interviews with industry experts and researchers’ insights gained by observation of the inspection activities. Findings—The Bowtie diagram for visual inspection in engine maintenance identifies new consequences in the maintenance context. It provides a new understanding of the importance of certain controls in the workflow. Originality—This work adapts the Bowtie analysis to provide a risk assessment of the borescope inspection activity on aircraft maintenance tasks, which was otherwise not shown in the literature. The consequences for maintenance are also different compared to flight operations, in the way operational economics are included.
Investigating the Role of the Eurasian Badger (Meles meles) in the Nationwide Distribution of the Western European Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) in England
Authors: Hof Anouschka R. , Allen Andrew M. , Bright Paul W.
Published: October 2019

Biodiversity is declining globally, which calls for effective conservation measures. It is, therefore, important to investigate the drivers behind species presence at large spatial scales. The Western European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is one of the species facing declines in parts of its range. Yet, drivers of Western European hedgehog distribution at large spatial scales remain largely unknown. At local scales, the Eurasian badger (Meles meles), an intraguild predator of the Western European hedgehog, can affect both the abundance and the distribution of the latter. However, the Western European hedgehog and the Eurasian badger have shown to be able to co-exist at a landscape scale. We investigated whether the Eurasian badger may play a role in the likelihood of the presence of the Western European hedgehog throughout England by using two nationwide citizen science surveys. Although habitat-related factors explained more variation in the likelihood of Western European hedgehog presence, our results suggest that Eurasian badger presence negatively impacts the likelihood of Western European hedgehog presence. Intraguild predation may, therefore, be influencing the nationwide distribution of hedgehogs in England, and further research is needed about how changes in badger densities and intensifying agricultural practices that remove shelters like hedgerows may influence hedgehog presence.
A Review on Mammary Tumors in Rabbits: Translation of Pathology into Medical Care
Authors: Schöniger Sandra , Degner Sophie , Jasani Bharat , Schoon Heinz-Adolf
Published: October 2019

The aim of this review is to raise awareness for mammary tumors in rabbits and to report progress in related research. Currently, a standardized tumor classification for rabbits is not available, prognostic factors are unknown and the only treatment option is surgical excision. Studies showed that affected rabbits have a wide age range and are nearly exclusively female or female spayed. Most mammary tumors are carcinomas. These may occur together with non-neoplastic or benign mammary lesions. Frequent microscopic findings are lipid droplets in tumor cells, secretory activity and microscopic heterogeneity. Since carcinomas are often negative for estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER-α/PR), modulation of receptor function will unlikely be beneficial for most rabbits. ER-α and PR status may have prognostic significance, since ER-α- or PR-negative tumors have significantly higher mitotic rates than ER-α- or PR-positive tumors. The frequent secretory activity of rabbit mammary tumors may suggest an influence of prolactin on tumorigenesis. Available data contribute to comparative pathology and are the basis for future molecular studies into the identification of additional prognostic factors and novel therapeutic options. They will also reveal the suitability of the rabbit as a model for certain types of breast cancer in women.
Rapid Classification of Wheat Grain Varieties Using Hyperspectral Imaging and Chemometrics
Authors: Bao Yidan , Mi Chunxiao , Wu Na , Liu Fei , He Yong
Published: October 2019

The classification of wheat grain varieties is of great value because its high purity is the yield and quality guarantee. In this study, hyperspectral imaging combined with the chemometric methods was applied to explore and implement the varieties classification of wheat seeds. The hyperspectral images of all the samples covering 874–1734 nm bands were collected. Exploratory analysis was first carried out while using principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discrimination analysis (LDA). Spectral preprocessing methods including standard normal variate (SNV), multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), and wavelet transform (WT) were introduced, and their effects on discriminant models were studied to eliminate the interference of instrumental and environmental factors. PCA loading, successive projections algorithm (SPA), and random frog (RF) were applied to extract feature wavelengths for redundancy elimination owing to the possibility of existing redundant spectral information. Classification models were developed based on full wavelengths and feature wavelengths using LDA, support vector machine (SVM), and extreme learning machine (ELM). This optimal model was finally utilized to generate visualization map to observe the classification performance intuitively. When comparing with other models, ELM based on full wavelengths achieved the best accuracy up to 91.3%. The overall results suggested that hyperspectral imaging was a potential tool for the rapid and accurate identification of wheat varieties, which could be conducted in large-scale seeds classification and quality detection in modern seed industry.
Fungal Community Analyses of a Pirogue from the Tang Dynasty in the National Maritime Museum of China
Authors: Zhang Fengyu , Li Lin , Sun Mingliang , Hu Cuiting , Zhang Zhiguo , Liu Zijun , Shao Hongfei , Xi Guanglan , Pan Jiao
Published: October 2019

The goal of this research was to analyze the fungal community responsible for the biodeterioration of a pirogue in the National Maritime Museum of China and to make recommendations for the protection of this artifact. Molecular identification of fungal strains isolated from the surface of the pirogue and the air of the storage room that were most closely related to Cladosporium, Penicillium, Talaromyces and Trichoderma spp. DNA extracted from the samples was sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq platform. The results showed that the predominant fungal genera present were Penicillium sp., Cladosporium sp. and Exophiala sp. Thereafter, cellulose degradation experiments were carried out on the predominant fungi screened by pure culturing. Finally, we tested the sensitivity of the predominant fungal isolates to four biocides. This work suggests that we should pay more attention to Penicillium sp. and Cladosporium sp. in the protection of wooden artifacts, and environmental control is recommended as the main means of protecting the pirogue.
Postponing the Onset and Alleviating the Load of Transonic Buffet by Using Steady and Periodic Tangential Slot Blowing
Authors: Dang Huixue , Zhao Junhai , Yang Zhichun , Dang Huibo
Published: October 2019

Transonic buffet not only influences the structural integrity, handling quality and ride comfort, but also limits the flight envelope of transporters and airliners. To delay buffet onset and alleviate the buffet load, the effects of both steady and periodic tangential slot blowing are investigated. The results show that steady tangential blowing on the airfoil upper surface can postpone the buffet onset margin and evidently increase the lift coefficient at incidence angles near and above the buffet onset case of the clean airfoil. Under buffeting conditions of the clean airfoil, unsteady aerodynamic loads can be greatly suppressed by both steady and periodic blowing. The control effort is depicted as reduced wedge effect and weakened dynamic effect. The buffet mechanism includes (a) the feedback loop between the Kutta wave and the separation bubble under the shock foot, and (b) the interaction between the shear layer shed by the shockwave and Kutta waves. Under blowing conditions, the upstream creeping Kutta waves are prevented, and the intensity of the shear layer shed by the shockwave into separated flows is evidently reduced. Parametric studies show that the control effect is reduced as the blowing slot moves downstream, and steady blowing at 41% x/c is the most favorable control case.
Academic Proposal for Heritage Intervention in a BIM Environment for a 19th Century Flour Factory
Authors: Sánchez Alberto , Gonzalez-Gaya Cristina , Zulueta Patricia , Sampaio Zita , Torre Beatriz
Published: October 2019

The implementation of building information modeling (BIM) has become a reality worldwide, not only because of the advantages it offers, but also because of the obligatory nature of its use in construction and civil engineering projects in various countries around the world. An intervention project on an industrial heritage property requires a methodology that considers the condition of the building over time and its value for new use. The advantages of working with a precise 3D model that integrates engineering data in a collaborative work environment makes BIM and heritage BIM (HBIM) very useful tools in a project whose objective is the recovery of an industrial heritage real estate property. This work is part of the academic implementation of BIM in university technical education centers and aims to establish a methodology for shared and collaborative group work in a BIM environment through a Spanish industrial heritage case study of a flour factory dating to 1865. A rigorous historical study and the elaboration of a central BIM model loaded with real content on the industrial complex have allowed the immersion of the students into the BIM methodology, as well as the generation of a value proposition for the exploitation of the factory.
Definition of the Layout for a New Facility to Test the Static and Dynamic Stability of Agricultural Vehicles Operating on Sloping Grounds
Authors: Bietresato Marco , Mazzetto Fabrizio
Published: October 2019

In this study, a new rig for investigating the static and dynamic stability of agricultural machines was conceived: its architecture was studied and its layout was designed following a specific conceptual approach. The first part of the proposed design process specifically addresses the test equipment and follows a ‘top-down’ logic starting from the requisites of the tests to perform. This approach alternates analysis and synthesis phases and exploits two important principles of the creative design process: functional analysis and decomposition, and kinematic inversion. During this process, many solutions (kinematic mechanisms, actuators) were proposed and discussed based on their advantages and disadvantages towards the definition of an optimal configuration. Therefore, the layout of a new mechanical system has been developed, which is supposed to steer subsequent and more detailed design-phases appropriately. The proposed facility has many innovative features compared to traditional test systems, in which vehicles are tested for lateral overturning under static conditions with the steering components (wheels/central joint for conventional/articulated vehicles) usually in a configuration corresponding only to a straight-path trajectory. Indeed, the present test rig is a mechanical installation with three degrees of freedom. It presents a wide plane, which can be tilted, composed by two semi-platforms connected by a central articulation hinge, operated by hydraulic jacks which allow the different angulations of the semi-platforms. It is specifically thought for performing dynamic stability tests of vehicles, especially on circular trajectories. An additional subsystem embedded in one of the two semi-platforms, configured as a rotating platform (‘turntable’), can test the global (static) stability of motionless vehicles placed on it.
Effectiveness of Mechanical Design Optimization Using a Human-in-the-Loop Simulator for the Development of a Pediatric Surgical Robot
Authors: Kawamura Kazuya , Seno Hiroto , Kobayashi Yo , Ieiri Satoshi , Hashizume Makoto , Fujie Masakatsu G.
Published: October 2019

In pediatric surgery, robotic technology is useful. However, it is difficult to apply this technology due to size-related problems. In our study, we proposed a mechanical design method using a human-in-the-loop type simulator, and the moving volume and invisible area were optimized. We also verified the effectiveness of the optimization of the mechanical parameters by applying the simulator to pediatric surgery. In this experiment, a needle-hooking task was carried out by four subjects with five types of mechanisms using the results of the Pareto optimal solution obtained in the previous research. Moreover, the accuracy of the needle tip manipulation was verified. It was confirmed that the accuracy was higher under the operation of the mechanism that satisfied the Pareto optimal solution in comparison with the other mechanism. As the operation was carried out based on movement in the direction of the arm, the moving volume decreased. Therefore, the accuracy of the hooking was found to improve. It would be useful to optimize the mechanism by verifying the moving volume and invisible area rate for the needle-hooking task. In future work, the optimization of the mechanism for procedures that require both hands will be carried out.
An Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis Repurposes an Antihelminthic Drug Niclosamide for Treating HMGA2-Overexpressing Human Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Leung Stephen Wan , Chou Chia-Jung , Huang Tsui-Chin , Yang Pei-Ming
Published: October 2019

Aberrant overexpression of high mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2) is frequently found in cancers and HMGA2 has been considered an anticancer therapeutic target. In this study, a pan-cancer genomics survey based on Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data indicated that HMGA2 was mainly overexpressed in gastrointestinal cancers including colorectal cancer. Intriguingly, HMGA2 overexpression had no prognostic impacts on cancer patients’ overall and disease-free survivals. In addition, HMGA2-overexpressing colorectal cancer cell lines did not display higher susceptibility to a previously identified HMGA2 inhibitor (netroposin). By microarray profiling of HMGA2-driven gene signature and subsequent Connectivity Map (CMap) database mining, we identified that S100 calcium-binding protein A4 (S100A4) may be a druggable vulnerability for HMGA2-overexpressing colorectal cancer. A repurposing S100A4 inhibitor, niclosamide, was found to reverse the HMGA2-driven gene signature both in colorectal cancer cell lines and patients’ tissues. In vitro and in vivo experiments validated that HMGA2-overexpressing colorectal cancer cells were more sensitive to niclosamide. However, inhibition of S100A4 by siRNAs and other inhibitors was not sufficient to exert effects like niclosamide. Further RNA sequencing analysis identified that niclosamide inhibited more cell-cycle-related gene expression in HMGA2-overexpressing colorectal cancer cells, which may explain its selective anticancer effect. Together, our study repurposes an anthelminthic drug niclosamide for treating HMGA2-overexpression colorectal cancer.
Importance of Translational Research for Targeting Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Signaling in Cancer
Authors: Holzmann Klaus , Marian Brigitte
Published: October 2019

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are a large family of protein ligands that exert a wide range of biological effects in many organs/tissues by activating receptors (FGFRs) of the tyrosine kinase superfamily [...]
Effect of the Concentration of Pigment Slurry on the Film Performances of Waterborne Wood Coatings
Authors: Yan Xiaoxing , Chang Yijuan , Qian Xingyu
Published: October 2019

Wood surface decoration and protection has become a topic of public concern. In this paper, a temperature-sensitive and reversible thermochromic waterborne wood coating was prepared by using Chinese fir board as the base material and a waterborne wood coating with the pigment slurry of thermochromic microcapsules as the paint base. The optical properties, mechanical properties and chemical resistance of the waterborne wood coating were tested, and its microstructure was analyzed. The results showed that when the concentration of thermochromic pigment slurry was 30.0%, the thermochromic property of the waterborne wood coating was best. The gloss of the waterborne wood coating with 15.0% pigment slurry of thermochromic microcapsules was high. The concentration of thermochromic pigment slurry had no effect on the adhesion, impact resistance, or chemical resistance of the waterborne wood coating. Based on the above results, the waterborne wood coating on Chinese fir had the best comprehensive performance when the concentration of thermochromic pigment slurry was 15.0%. This work will provide a technical reference for the industrialization of the thermochromic coating film on wood.
Characterization of Coals and Coal Ashes with High Si Content Using Combined Second-Derivative Infrared Spectroscopy and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Yin Yanshan , Yin Huixia , Wu Zihua , Qi Caiwen , Tian Hong , Zhang Wei , Hu Zhangmao , Feng Leihua
Published: October 2019

The organic and mineral components in two coals and resulting high-temperature ashes with high silicon content were characterized by second-derivative infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The infrared spectra of raw coals show weak organic functional groups bands but strong kaolinite bands because of the relatively high silicates content. In contrast, the Raman spectra of raw coals show strong disordered carbon bands but no mineral bands since Raman spectroscopy is highly sensitive to carbonaceous phases. The overlapping bands of mineral components (e.g., calcite, feldspar, and muscovite) were successfully resolved by the method of second-derivative infrared spectroscopy. The results of infrared spectra indicate the presence of metakaolinite in coal ashes, suggesting the thermal transformation of kaolinite during ashing. Intense quartz bands were shown in both infrared and Raman spectra of coal ashes. In addition, Raman spectra of coal ashes show a very strong characteristic band of anatase (149 cm–1), although the titanium oxides content is very low. Combined use of second-derivative infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy provides valuable insight into the analyses of mineralogical composition. The XRD results generally agree with those of FTIR and Raman spectroscopic analyses.
A Transformative Concept: From Data Being Passive Objects to Data Being Active Subjects
Authors: Plag Hans-Peter , Jules-Plag Shelley-Ann
Published: October 2019

The exploitation of potential societal benefits of Earth observations is hampered by users having to engage in often tedious processes to discover data and extract information and knowledge. A concept is introduced for a transition from the current perception of data as passive objects (DPO) to a new perception of data as active subjects (DAS). This transition would greatly increase data usage and exploitation, and support the extraction of knowledge from data products. Enabling the data subjects to actively reach out to potential users would revolutionize data dissemination and sharing and facilitate collaboration in user communities. The three core elements of the transformative DAS concept are: (1) “intelligent semantic data agents” (ISDAs) that have the capabilities to communicate with their human and digital environment. Each ISDA provides a voice to the data product it represents. It has comprehensive knowledge of the represented product including quality, uncertainties, access conditions, previous uses, user feedbacks, etc., and it can engage in transactions with users. (2) A knowledge base that constructs extensive graphs presenting a comprehensive picture of communities of people, applications, models, tools, and resources and provides tools for the analysis of these graphs. (3) An interaction platform that links the ISDAs to the human environment and facilitates transaction including discovery of products, access to products and derived knowledge, modifications and use of products, and the exchange of feedback on the usage. This platform documents the transactions in a secure way maintaining full provenance.
Investigation of Surface Degradation of Aged High Temperature Vulcanized (HTV) Silicone Rubber Insulators
Authors: Shaik Mohamed Ghouse , Karuppaiyan Vijayarekha
Published: October 2019

Polymeric composite insulators are subjected to varying work conditions like rain and heat, which create an impact on degradation during their long service period. Electrical tracking under the Alternating Current (AC) field plays a predominant role in surface degradation, which can be different for fresh and aged insulations. The tracking studies on the fresh and aged polymeric insulation therefore become significant. Motivated by this, an indigenous low-cost electrical tracking setup was developed, and the tracking studies were carried out as per International Electro technical Commission standard (IEC) 60587 on fresh, thermal-aged and water-aged silicone rubber samples. Contact angles of samples were measured to analyse the effect of ageing on hydrophobicity. Further, to analyse the influence of ageing on insulation integrity, tracking tests were conducted and parameters like leakage current pattern and magnitudes, tracking length and loss of weight in the material due to tracking were examined. The physicochemical impacts of ageing on the surface degradation of the samples were also analysed using X-ray diffraction analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis. The investigations added insight into the degradation mechanism of polymeric insulators in terms of their electrical performance and physicochemical changes in the material. Comparison of these changes showed that ageing could influence surface degradation of samples.
Comparison of the Whole-Plastome Sequence between the Bonin Islands Endemic Rubus boninensis and Its Close Relative, Rubus trifidus (Rosaceae), in the Southern Korean Peninsula
Authors: Yang JiYoung , Takayama Koji , Pak Jae-Hong , Kim Seung-Chul
Published: October 2019

Rubus boninensis is a rare endemic species found on the Bonin Islands with a very restricted distribution. It is morphologically most closely related to Rubus trifidus, occurring widely in the southern Korean peninsula and Japan. This species pair provides a good example of anagenetic speciation on an oceanic island in the northwestern Pacific Ocean—R. trifidus as a continental progenitor and R. boninensis as an insular derivative species. In this study, we firstly characterized the complete plastome of R. boninensis and R. trifidus and compared this species pair to another anagenetically derived species pair (R. takesimensis–R. crataegifolius). The complete plastome of R. trifidus was 155,823 base pairs (bp) long, slightly longer (16 bp) than that of R. boninensis (155,807 bp). No structural or content rearrangements were found between the species pair. Eleven hotspot regions, including trnH/psbA, were identified between R. trifidus and R. boninensis. Phylogenetic analysis of 19 representative plastomes within the family Rosaceae suggested sister relationships between R. trifidus and R. boninensis, and between R. crataegifolius and R. takesimensis. The plastome resources generated by the present study will help elucidate plastome evolution and resolve phylogenetic relationships within highly complex and reticulated lineages of the genus Rubus.
Themes Across New Directions in Community Engagement
Authors: Cruz Shannon M.
Published: October 2019

The articles in this special issue on New Directions in Environmental Communication in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health present new research and perspectives on engaging communities impacted by Superfund sites—the hazardous waste sites that have been identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as needing cleanup. In particular, these articles focus on the community engagement cores (CECs) that work with affected communities as part the Superfund Research Program at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). The purpose of this closing article is to highlight important themes evident across the eight articles in the special issue. When considered together, the findings reveal important lessons learned about community engagement and environmental communication, but also reveal that much more remains to be known. Recommendations are made for how these teams can continue to practice, reflect on, and research community engagement in ways that build toward a better understanding and implementation of best practices.
MicroRNA Assisted Gene Regulation in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Fadaka Adewale , Pretorius Ashley , Klein Ashwil
Published: October 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second-leading cause of cancer death and a major public health problem. Nearly 80% CRC cases are diagnosed after the disease have metastasized and are often too advanced for treatment. Small non-coding RNA guides argonaute protein to their specific target for regulation as the sole of RNA induced silencing complex for gene silencing. These non-coding RNA for example microRNA, are thought to play a key role in affecting the efficiency of gene regulation in cancer, especially CRC. Understanding the mechanism at the molecular level could lead to improved diagnosis, treatment, and management decisions for CRC. The study aimed to predict the molecular mechanism of gene regulation based microRNA-mRNA duplex as a lead in the silencing mechanism. Five candidate microRNAs were identified through the in silico approach. The MicroRNA target prediction and subsequent correlation, and prioritization were performed using miRTarBase, gbCRC and CoReCG, and DAVID databases respectively. Protein selection and preparation were carried out using PDB and Schrödinger suits. The molecular docking analysis was performed using PATCHDOCK webserver and visualized by discovery studio visualizer. The results of the study reveal that the candidate microRNAs have strong binding affinity towards their targets suggesting a crucial factor in the silencing mechanism. Furthermore, the molecular docking of the receptor to both the microRNA and microRNA-mRNA duplex were analyzed computationally to understand their interaction at the molecular level. Conclusively, the study provides an explanation for understanding the microRNAs-based gene regulation (silencing mechanism) in CRC.
Intraoperative Fluid Restriction is Associated with Functional Delayed Graft Function in Living Donor Kidney Transplantation: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Nieuwenhuijs-Moeke Gertrude J , Huijink Tobias M , Pol Robert A , El Moumni Mostafa , Burgerhof Johannes GM , Struys Michel MRF , Berger Stefan P
Published: October 2019

Background: In 2016 we observed a marked increase in functional delayed graft function (fDGF) in our living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT) recipients from 8.5% in 2014 and 8.8% in 2015 to 23.0% in 2016. This increase coincided with the introduction of a goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) protocol in our kidney transplant recipients. Hereupon, we changed our intraoperative fluid regimen to a fixed amount of 50 mL/kg body weight (BW) and questioned whether the intraoperative fluid regimen was related to this increase in fDGF. Methods: a retrospective cohort analysis of all donors and recipients in our LDKT program between January 2014–February 2017 (n = 275 pairs). Results: Univariate analysis detected various risk factors for fDGF. Dialysis dependent recipients were more likely to develop fDGF compared to pre-emptively transplanted patients (p < 0.001). Recipients developing fDGF received less intraoperative fluid (36 (25.9–50.0) mL/kg BW vs. 47 (37.3–55.6) mL/kg BW (p = 0.007)). The GDFT protocol resulted in a reduction of intraoperative fluid administration on average by 850 mL in total volume and 21% in mL/kg BW compared to our old protocol (p < 0.001). In the unadjusted analysis, a higher intraoperative fluid volume in mL/kg BW was associated with a lower risk for the developing fDGF (OR 0.967, CI (0.941–0.993)). After adjustment for the confounders, prior dialysis and the use of intraoperative noradrenaline, the relationship of fDGF with fluid volume was still apparent (OR 0.970, CI (0.943–0.998)). Conclusion: Implementation of a GDFT protocol led to reduced intraoperative fluid administration in the LDKT recipients. This intraoperative fluid restriction was associated with the development of fDGF.