bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGEMBANGAN SISTEM KONTROL KIPAS ANGIN DAN LAMPU OTOMATIS BERBASIS SAKLAR SUARA MENGGUNAKAN ARDUINO UNO
Authors: Asmaleni Pensi , Hamdani Dedy , Sakti Indra
Published: May 2020

ABSTRAK  Penelitian bertujuan untuk (1) menghasilkan rancangan sistem kontrol kipas angin dan lampu otomatis berbasis saklar suara menggunakan Arduino Uno (2) dan menghasilkan alat sistem kontrol kipas angin dan lampu otomatis berbasis saklar suara menggunakan Arduino Uno. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah Research and Development. Tahap pengembangan dalam penelitian ini meliputi perancangan, produksi dan evaluasi. Sistem kontrol kipas angin dan lampu otomatis berbasis saklar suara menggunakan Arduino Uno terdiri dari komponen-komponen elektronika seperti Bluetooth HC-05 sebagai koneksi antara smartphone android dengan Arduino Uno, relay sebagai pemutus arus listrik dan Arduino Uno sebagai sistem kontrol dari semua rangkaian. Jarak maksimum jangkauan Bluetooth HC-05 adalah 17 meter tanpa penghalang dan 7 meter dengan penghalang. Adapun hasil validasi isi dan teknis dalam penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa sistem kontrol kipas angin dan lampu otomatis berbasis saklar suara menggunakan Arduino Uno memperoleh persentase sebesar 82,5% sehingga dikategorikan baik. Berdasarkan data yang diperoleh dapat disimpulkan bahwa sistem kontrol kipas angin dan lampu otomatis berbasis saklar suara menggunakan Arduino Uno layak untuk digunakan sebagai pengontrol lampu berbasis suara. kata kunci: Bluetooth HC-05, relay empat channel, saklar suara, arduino uno. ABSTRACT  This study aims to (1) produce a draft control system fan and lamp-based automatic voice switch using the Arduino Uno (2) and generate tool control system fan and lamp-based automatic voice switch using the Arduino Uno. The method was  used the Research and Development. The development stage in this research included the design, production and evaluation. The control system and automatic headlights fan-based voice switch using the Arduino Uno consists of electronic components such as HC-05 Bluetooth as the connection between android smartphone with the Arduino Uno, relay as the electric circuit breaker and Arduino Uno as the control systems of all the series. The maximum distance of HC-05 Bluetooth range of 17 meters without obstructions and 7 meters to the barrier. As for the contents and technical validation results from the studied show that the control system fan and automatic light switch-based voice using Arduino Uno obtained a percentage of 82.5% and good category. Based on the data obtained can be concluded that the control system and automatic headlights fan-based voice switch using the Arduino Uno was eligible to be used as a voice-based lighting controller. Keywords: Bluetooth HC-05, four-channel relay, voice switch, Arduino Uno
Effects of ocean acidification on toxicity of two trace metals in two marine molluscs in their early life stages
Authors: Guo X , Huang M , Shi B , You W , Ke C
Published: May 2020

Ocean acidification (OA) is usually thought to change the speciation of trace metals and increase the concentration of free metal ions, hence elevating metal bioavailability. In this study, embryos of the oysterCrassostrea angulataand abaloneHaliotis discus hannaiwere cultured under 4 pCO2conditions (400, 800, 1500 and 2000 µatm) with Cu and Zn added. Fertilization rate was measured 2 h post-fertilization (hpf), while larval deformation and larval shell length were measured 24 hpf. Our results show that OA can alleviate Cu and Zn inhibition ofC. angulatafertilization by 86.1 and 26.4% respectively, and Zn inhibition ofH. discus hannaifertilization by 43.7%. However, OA enhanced the inhibitory effect of Cu on fertilization ofH. discus hannaiby 34.7%. OA enhanced the toxic effect of Cu on larval normality ofC. angulataby 22.0% and the effect of Cu and Zn on larval normality ofH. discus hannaiby 71.4 and 37.2%, respectively. OA also enhanced the inhibitory effects of Cu and Zn on larval calcification inH. discus hannaiby 8.8 and 8.6%, respectively. However, OA did not change the effect of Cu on the calcification ofC. angulatalarvae. OA decreased Zn inhibition of oyster larval calcification from 3.1 to 1.5%. Based on our results, the toxic effects of metal on early development of molluscs are not always increased by rising pCO2and differ across developmental stages, egg structure and species. This complexity suggests that caution should be taken when carrying out multiple environmental stressor tests on molluscan embryos.
Changes in Hind Paw Epidermal Thickness, Peripheral Nerve Distribution and Mechanical Sensitivity After Immobilization in Rats
Authors: NAKANO J. , SEKINO Y. , HAMAUE Y. , SAKAMOTO J. , YOSHIMURA T. , ORIGUCHI T. , OKITA M.
Published: May 2020

This study was designed to investigate histological changes in skin tissue accompanying immobilization-induced hypersensitivity. Changes in mechanical sensitivity, epidermal thickness, and peripheral nerve profiles in the upper dermis were examined in glabrous skin of rat hind paw after 1, 2, and 4 weeks of ankle joint immobilization by plaster casts. Induction of mechanical hypersensitivity was confirmed after 2 and 4 weeks of joint immobilization. Epidermal thinning and increase in peripheral nerve profiles were observed in skin tissues in immobilized rats. The time course of epidermal thinning and increase in peripheral nerve profiles were similar closely to that of hypersensitivity, with significant differences between the immobilized and control rats after 2 weeks of immobilization, which became even more remarkable at 4 weeks of immobilization. These findings suggest that joint immobilization by cast induces epidermal thinning and increases peripheral nerve profiles in the upper dermis and that these changes might be partly responsible for immobilization-induced hypersensitivity.
Tingkat Aksesibilitas Transportasi Publik di Wilayah Peri-Urban Kawasan Perkotaan Yogyakarta
Authors: Pramana A Yunastiawan Eka , Efendi Hatta
Published: May 2020

Pertumbuhan fisik perkotaan perlu untuk diikuti oleh pertumbuhan infrastruktur yang memadahi agar kawasan perkotaan dapat tumbuh secara berkelanjutan. Salah satu bentuk infrastruktur yang perlu untuk dipenuhi adalah infrastruktur transportasi publik yang dapat menciptakan keterhubungan antara pusat-pusat permukiman dan pusat-pusat aktivitas sosial ekonomi, sekaligus acap kali menjadi instrumen untuk mengendalikan pertumbuhan fisik perkotaan.Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengukur tingkat aksesibilitas transportasi publik di wilayah peri-urban di Kawasan Perkotaan Yogyakarta. Analisis dilakukan menggunakan pendekatan location-based accessibility dengan memanfaatkan teknik analisis spasial untuk mengukur tingkat aksesibilitas transportasi publik di wilayah peri-urban. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat ketimpangan tingkat aksesibilitas transportasi publik, dimana wilayah yang berada di sisi utara Kota Yogyakarta yakni di Kabupaten Sleman memiliki tingkat aksesibilitas transportasi publik yang lebih tinggi dibandingkan di sisi selatan Kota Yogyakarta. Penelitian ini juga menunjukkan adanya ketidaksesuaian antara aksesibilitas transportasi publik dengan konsentrasi populasi di wilayah peri-urban di Kawasan Perkotaan Yogyakarta
Теоретична концепція та практична реалізація нової інтегрованої методології систем раннього попередження про зсувну небезпеку
Authors: Kaliukh Yu.І. , Ishchenko Yu.І.
Published: May 2020

Глобальні кліматичні зміни і триваюче збільшення землекористування викликають помітне збільшення частоти та інтенсивності зсувів. Зсуви є важливою складовою низки значних стихійних лих і несуть відповідальність за набагато більш великі втрати, ніж загальновизнано. Зазвичай часто про зсуви згадують у зв'язку з повенями, землетрусами або виверженнями вулканів навіть при тому, що втрати від зсувних руйнувань можуть перевищувати всі інші збитки від загальної катастрофи. Протягом останнього десятиліття (з 2000 по 2009) стихійні лиха пошкодили та зруйнували близько одного мільйона об'єктів, що безпосередньо торкнулося майже 2,5 млрд людей в усьому світі. Щорічно у Європі трапляється близько 20 великих зсувів – значно більше, ніж повеней, землетрусів та ураганів. Системи раннього попередження про небезпеку є ефективним інструментам для запобігання та пом'якшення ризиків, пов'язаних з виникненням різного типу загроз (зсувів у тому числі). У статті представлена і описана концепція та практична реалізація нової інтегрованої методології систем раннього попередження, яка заснована на інтеграції між сучасними технологіями моніторингу і всебічним чисельним моделюванням досліджуваного обєкту. Основна концепція EWS, встановлених на зсувах, полягає в тому, щоб елементи, котрі схильні до ризику, особливо люди, що знаходяться далеко від небезпечної зони, мали достатньо часу для евакуації у випадку очікування неминучого колапсу. Тому дійова і ефективна EWS повинна включати в себе чотирі основні набори дій: моніторинг активності об’єкта спостереження: збір даних, передача і обслуговування обладнання; аналіз і моделювання досліджуваного об’єкта; попередження - розповсюдження простої і зрозумілої інформації про об’єкт спостереження; ефективна реакція у відповідь елементів схильних до ризику; повне знання ризику. Наведено приклади практичної реалізаії запропонованої інтегрованої методології для різних будівельних об’єктів та природно-техногенних систем: 1) Центральна Лівадійська зсувна система та Лівадійський палац, 2) система моніторингу зсувонебезпевних ділянок Харьківської обл., 3) система раннього попередження зсувів з використанням безпілотних літальних аппаратів в якості спеціалізованої системи моніторингу зсувних деформацій.
Compressive strength and grade of concrete in structures
Authors: Zharko L.O. , Ovchar V.P. , Tarasyuk V.H. , Fesenko О.А.
Published: May 2020

The paper summarizes the experience of the Department of Buildings and Facilities Structures Research in determining the compressive strength and grade of concrete in the structures, which characterize one of the main requirements for ensuring the structures mechanical strength and stability. Their unambiguous interpretation at the stages of concrete composition selection, products manufacture and structures operation leads to a conflict of interests and corruption risks between a concrete producer, a builder and an investor. Two approaches to the concrete strength and grade assessment are considered: the first one reasons from the economic interests of a concrete producer (the possibility of cement saving at a stable well-organized production facility), the second one takes into account the consumer's point of view (design indicators ensuring). The first approach is based on the coefficient of the tested control concrete cubes strength variation declared by the concrete mixture manufacturer. The calculation of the relationship between the average and characteristic compressive resistance of concrete at various coefficients of concrete compressive strength variation and grades showed that this coefficient can significantly change the assessment results. The second approach is based on the use of reference core samples cut directly from the structure, which are tested and interpreted according to established international experience. The difference in strength assessments is shown for the cases with the use of samples tests results selection compared to groups in which the smallest values are removed. Both approaches are analyzed based on the experience of determining the concrete compressive strength grade using the core samples from the entire floor slab in the existing structure and from some its areas; the results were far from straightforward and not consistent with the project. It is necessary to clearly define the areas of application of norms and standards that, firstly, serve the technology and the production market of concrete and concrete and reinforced concrete products, and secondly, ensure obtaining the actual characteristics of existing products, structures and facilities and their conformity to the project. It is advisable, especially for the structures of the higher levels of responsibility and in some controversial matters, to verify the results obtained with the first approach application to the concrete mix test specimens by testing core samples cut from the structures.
Use of an international experience of mechanical reinforcement bars splicing in Ukraine
Authors: Klymovych I.M. , Nesterenko Yu. O.
Published: May 2020

The problematic of reinforcement bars splicing by overlap tying and by the way of welding is described, as well as alternative splicing by the mechanical compression couplers as a way of its solution. Lap splicing showed good results in structures with small nominal dimensions of steel bars, low rate yield strength and in buildings not higher than 15 floors. Welding is the more flexible method of steel bars splicing but its use brings to rising costs and complicity of construction work. The quality of welded splices depends on many factors mainly on the existing problems in welding process. The analysis of world construction practice shows a more reliable, technological and effective way of splicing reinforcement bars it means the use of connecting couplers i.e. mechanical rebar coupling. Successful international experience of applying mechanical steel bars splicing in USA, Japan, China, Kazakhstan, UAE, etc. is described. It must be noted that with the advance of the enactment of DBN V 2.6-98 and DSTU B V.2.6-156, standard acceptable methods of steel bars splicing in Ukraine are lap splicing, welded connections and mechanical splicing. General technical requirements of the connections of reinforcement were analyzed and systematized, as well as general advantages of mechanical splices were proved. Analysis of international and native regulations showed that in Ukraine it should be taken more strict requirements for mechanical splices. Methodology and test results of mechanical splices were covered. A number of regulation documents were developed as a result of large scale theoretical and experimental research of mechanical connections. The technology of coupling of reinforcement bars was applied at many construction projects as well as in seismic regions.
Liability for Wrongful Deprivation of Liberty: Malice and Police Privilege
Authors: Reid Elspeth
Published: May 2020

Infringement of liberty has long been regarded as a delict which requires to be compensated, but public officers may in some circumstances be protected against liability where freedom has been “lawfully abridged” in conformity with the rules of criminal procedure. However, the boundaries of this form of privilege have not always been delineated with clarity. This article will argue that they remain unclear following the Outer House decision in Whitehouse v Gormley. In particular it questions the basis for requiring the pursuer to prove malice where a claim is made against police officers for unlawful detention or arrest.
Akuntan Outsourcing dan Kinerja UMKM: Perspektif Resource Based View
Authors: Cahyaningtyas Fadilla , Mega Noerman Ningtyas
Published: May 2020

This research aimed to find the influencing factors of SMEs’ decision in using outsourced accountant and the effect of such use towards SMEs’ performance by using Resource Based View (RBV) perspective. This research has been rarely done in Indonesia. Accidental-purposive sampling was chosen and the data were collected by distributing the questionnaire to 185 manufacturing-sector SMEs in Malang. By using Partial Least Square method, the researchers found that technical competence gave positive effect. The competition level negatively affected the SMEs decision in using the outsourced accountant. This research also figured out the positive impact of the outsourced accountant use towards SMEs performance.

Abstrak

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi keputusan UMKM dalam menggunakan akuntan outsourcing dan dampak penggunaannya terhadap kinerja UMKM dengan menggunakan perspektif Resource Based View (RBV). Penelitian dengan tema akuntan outsourcing di UMKM sangat jarang dilakukan di Indonesia. Sampel dipilih dengan metode Accidental- Purposive Sampling. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan menyebarkan kuesioner ke 185 UMKM sektor manufaktur di Malang. Uji hipotesis ini menggunakan metode analisis Partial Least Square. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kompetensi teknis memberikan pengaruh positif, sedangkan tingkat persaingan berpengaruh negatif terhadap keputusan UMKM menggunakan akuntan outsourcing. Akhirnya, hasil penelitian juga menunjukkan penggunaan akuntan outsourcing berpengaruh positif terhadap kinerja UMKM
Sistem Informasi Pemerintahan Daerah: e-Budgeting untuk Mewujudkan Akuntabilitas Pemerintah Daerah
Authors: Andhayani Atik
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study is to analyze e-budgeting process as an initial basis for the implementation of regional finances that is expected to narrow the opportunity to abuse the authority of officials and implementers of regional financial budgets. The research method was carried out with a case study in the Batu City Government in the year before and after the implementation of e-budgeting. The results indicates that prior the implementation of e-budgeting many errors occur in manual budget entry and after the implementation of ebudgeting proves that the implementation of e-budgeting has undergone several changes and progress but is urgently needed human resources in handling e-budgeting, support from officials, and coordination of all parties.
Abstrak
Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganilisa e-budgeting dalam proses anggaran sebagai dasar awal terlaksananya keuangan daerah yang diharapkan dapat mempersempit peluang penyalahgunaan wewenang pejabat dan pelaksana anggaran keuangan daerah. Metode penelitian dilakukan dengan studi kasus di Pemerintah Kota Batu pada tahun sebelum dan setelah terlaksananya e-budgeting. Hasil dari penelitian ini sebelum dilaksanakan e-budgeting banyak terjadi kesalahan entry manual anggaran dan setelah dilaksanakan e-budgeting membuktikan bahwa pelaksanaan e-budgeting telah mengalami beberapa perubahan dan kemajuan tetapi sangat dibutuhkan sumber daya manusia dalam menangani e-budgeting, dukungan dari pejabat dan koordinasi dari semua pihak.
Rasio Produk Pembiayaan Syariah sebagai Determinan Return On Equity Bank Umum Syariah di Indonesia
Authors: Nataliawati Rita , Ari Kamayanti  , Soemaryono  , Suyanto  , Sayyid
Published: May 2020

This study aims to analyze the effect of the ratio of sharia financing products conducted with mudharabah, musyarakah, murabahah, istishna, and ijarah contracts on the Return On Equity of Sharia Commercial Banks in Indonesia uses multiple linear regression analysis. The research finding that mudharabah, musyarakah, murabahah, ijarah financing have an effect on Return on Equity, while istishna has no effect on Return on Equity of Islamic banks in Indonesia.
Abstrak
Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis pengaruh rasio produk pembiayaan syariah yang dilakukan dengan akad mudharabah, musyarakah, murabahah, istishna, dan ijarah pada Bank Umum Syariah di Indonesia dengan menggunakan rasio Return On Equity. Teknik analisis yang digunakan adalah regresi linier berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pembiayaan mudharabah, musyarakah, murabahah, ijarah berpengaruh terhadap Return on Equity dan istishna tidak berpengaruh terhadap Return on Equity Bank Umum syariah di Indonesia.
Strategi Pemasaran dan Perilaku Penjual sebagai Determinan Customer Retention
Authors: Mauludin Hanif , Tundung Subali Patma  , Kukuh Mulyadi
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of marketing strategies and salesman behaviour on customer retention. Seventy-five respondents were involved in this study. The analytical method used to test hypotheses is partial least square. We find that marketing strategies and salesman behavior influence customer retention. Price and promotion are essential aspects of the marketing mix. Ethical behavior and establishing closeness with customers is a dominant aspect of salesman behavior. The novelty in this study is that this research was conducted in the Hajj and Umrah travel industries and emphasized on salesman behavior.
Abstrak
Tujuan penelitian adalah menguji pengaruh strategi pemasaran dan perilaku salesman terhadap customer retention. Sebanyak 75 responden yang terlibat dalam penelitian ini. Metode analisis yang digunakan untuk menguji hipotesis adalah partial least square. Kami temukan bahwa strategi pemasaran dan perilaku salesman berpengaruh pada customer retention. Harga dan promosi merupakan aspek bauran pemasaran yang penting. Perilaku yang baik dan menjalin kedekatan dengan pelanggan merupakan aspek dominan dari salesman behavior. Kebaruan dalam penelitian ini adalah meneliti industri travel haji dan umroh serta menekankan pada perilaku salesman.
Svensk yrkeslärarutbildning efter reformen 2011: Lärarstudenters uppfattningar om antagning, VFU och läraranställning
Authors: Asghari Hamid , Berglund Ingrid
Published: May 2020

Through a survey to former vocational teacher students at two universities in Sweden, we explore their perceptions of admission, practicum internship during vocational teacher education, and employment as a vocational teacher after education, since teacher education reform in 2011.
The questionnaire used in the survey was answered by 140 former teacher students and the result contributes with knowledge about which vocational subjects were applied for, and which subjects the students later were admitted to, how long the former students’ professional experience was when they applied for the education. The result shows that measures should be taken to support the application process. The study also illustrates how students perceive their practicum at schools and to what extent they were taught in their vocational subjects, and how they value the supervision during the practicum at schools. Here, we can draw conclusions from the questionnaire about differences between different vocational programmes regarding the supervision. Finally, we examined what happened after the vocational teacher education and we see that a large majority of former students have employment as vocational teachers, but that the possibilities of competence development and the broadening of the competencies for more vocational subjects vary.
RETRACTED: Effects of Dexmedetomidine on Postoperative Delirium and Expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in Elderly Patients After Hip Fracture Operation
Authors: Zhang Wenchao , Wang Tianlong , Wang Geng , Yang Minghui , Zhou Yan , Yuan Yi
Published: May 2020

Objective

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common surgical complication in elderly patients. This study investigated the effects of dexmedetomidine on POD and pro-inflammatory markers in elderly patients with hip fracture.

Methods

This randomized, double-blind, controlled trial enrolled patients ≥65 years of age who underwent an operation for hip fracture at Beijing JiShuiTan Hospital from October 2016 to January 2017. The patients were divided into the DEX group (injected with dexmedetomidine 0.5 µg/kg/h) and the NS group (injected with normal saline). After surgery, the incidence of delirium at postoperative day 1 (T1), 2 (T2), and 3 (T3) was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method delirium scale. Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α blood levels were detected at T0 (before surgery), T1, and T3.

Results

Data from 240 patients were analyzed, with 120/group (intent-to-treat analysis). Dexmedetomidine decreased POD incidence (18.2 vs. 30.6%, P = 0.033). Compared to T0, all three pro-inflammatory markers were higher at T1 and then decreased at T3 (time interaction, all P < 0.001). IL-6 (P < 0.001) levels were lower in the DEX group at T1, and TNF-α (P = 0.003) levels were lower in the DEX group at T1 and T3, but IL-1β levels were similar between the two groups. The rate of adverse events was similar in the two groups.

Conclusion

Dexmedetomidine reduced the incidence of POD in elderly patients on the first day after hip fracture surgery, and reduced IL-6 and TNF-α levels over the first 3 days after surgery.
Assessing the Impact of Water Cooling on PV Modules Efficiency
Authors: Luboń Wojciech , Pełka Grzegorz , Janowski Mirosław , Pająk Leszek , Stefaniuk Michał , Kotyza Jarosław , Reczek Paweł
Published: May 2020

The article presents the results of research on the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) modules cooled with water. The aim of the experiment was to improve the working conditions of solar modules. A temperature decrease was obtained for the PV module by pouring cool tap water onto the upper surface of the modules, either in imitation of rain or as a water film. The power of the cooled and non-cooled devices were then compared. The temperature of the cooled modules dropped to almost 25 °C, whilst the temperature of the non-cooled module was 45 °C. The best results were achieved by cooling modules with a water film, since there were no water splashes, and the continuous cooling of the surface leads to a 20% increase in power. During the test, the non-cooled module attained a maximum power of 105.3 W/m2, compared to 125.5 W/m2 for its cooled counterpart. Cooling the module, therefore, resulted in a power increase of 20.2 W/m2. The results of the work may be of particular interest for small installations, especially because it cleans the modules while providing an increase in power.
Anticodon Wobble Uridine Modification by Elongator at the Crossroad of Cell Signaling, Differentiation, and Diseases
Authors: Hermand Damien
Published: May 2020

First identified 20 years ago as an RNA polymerase II-associated putative histone acetyltransferase, the conserved Elongator complex has since been recognized as the central player of a complex, regulated, and biologically relevant epitranscriptomic pathway targeting the wobble uridine of some tRNAs. Numerous studies have contributed to three emerging concepts resulting from anticodon modification by Elongator: the codon-specific control of translation, the ability of reprogramming translation in various physiological or pathological contexts, and the maintenance of proteome integrity by counteracting protein aggregation. These three aspects of tRNA modification by Elongator constitute a new layer of regulation that fundamentally contributes to gene expression and are now recognized as being critically involved in various human diseases.
Participation, for Whom? The Potential of Gamified Participatory Artefacts in Uncovering Power Relations within Urban Renewal Projects
Authors: Iulia Constantinescu Teodora , Devisch Oswald , Huybrechts Liesbeth
Published: May 2020

When defining participation in urban renewal projects in a political sense, this concept implies the challenging of power relations in each of its dimensions while addressing the need for knowledge, action and consciousness. Knowledge is defined as a resource which affects observable decision making. Action looks at who is involved in the production of such knowledge in order to challenge and shape the political agenda. Consciousness is how the production of knowledge changes the awareness or worldview of those involved, thus shaping the psychological and conceptual boundaries of what is possible. This paper addresses these politics of participation via the use of gamification, and more particularly gamified participatory artefacts. We discuss how a ‘good’ participatory planning process implies rebalancing existing power relations via the redistribution of knowledge, consciousness and actions, and aims to operationalize this ambition through a game. We particularly focus on the urban renewal process of one particular case, namely the Vennestraat—one of the main commercial streets of the city of Genk (BE) and present a three year participatory mapping process that made use of three gamified participatory artefacts (i.e., socio-economic network mapping, gathering mental images and scenario games). After uncovering the complex field of power relations in the entrepreneurial street, we analyze the different types of relations/groups that emerge from this participatory mapping process. The paper concludes with an analytical framework that employs gamified participatory artefacts in order to map and understand power relations and the mechanisms that frame them.
Interactive Actions of Aldosterone and Insulin on Epithelial Na+ Channel Trafficking
Authors: Marunaka Rie , Marunaka Yoshinori
Published: May 2020

Epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) participates in renal epithelial Na+ reabsorption, controlling blood pressure. Aldosterone and insulin elevate blood pressure by increasing the ENaC-mediated Na+ reabsorption. However, little information is available on the interactive action of aldosterone and insulin on the ENaC-mediated Na+ reabsorption. In the present study, we tried to clarify if insulin would modify the aldosterone action on the ENaC-mediated Na+ reabsorption from a viewpoint of intracellular ENaC trafficking. We measured the ENaC-mediated Na+ transport as short-circuit currents using a four-state mathematical ENaC trafficking model in renal A6 epithelial cells with or without aldosterone treatment under the insulin-stimulated and -unstimulated conditions. We found that: (A) under the insulin-stimulated condition, aldosterone treatment (1 µM for 20 h) significantly elevated the ENaC insertion rate to the apical membrane ( k I ) 3.3-fold and the ENaC recycling rate ( k R ) 2.0-fold, but diminished the ENaC degradation rate ( k D ) 0.7-fold without any significant effect on the ENaC endocytotic rate ( k E ); (B) under the insulin-unstimulated condition, aldosterone treatment decreased k E 0.5-fold and increased k R 1.4-fold, without any significant effect on k I or k D . Thus, the present study indicates that: (1) insulin masks the well-known inhibitory action of aldosterone on the ENaC endocytotic rate; (2) insulin induces a stimulatory action of aldosterone on ENaC apical insertion and an inhibitory action of aldosterone on ENaC degradation; (3) insulin enhances the aldosterone action on ENaC recycling; (4) insulin has a more effective action on diminution of ENaC endocytosis than aldosterone.
Identification of the MAPK Cascade and its Relationship with Nitrogen Metabolism in the Green Alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Gomez-Osuna Aitor , Calatrava Victoria , Galvan Aurora , Fernandez Emilio , Llamas Angel
Published: May 2020

The mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) form part of a signaling cascade through phosphorylation reactions conserved in all eukaryotic organisms. The MAPK cascades are mainly composed by three proteins, MAPKKKs, MAPKKs and MAPKs. Some signals induce MAPKKK-mediated phosphorylation and activation of MAPKK that phosphorylate and activate MAPK. Afterward, MAPKs can act either in the cytoplasm or be imported into the nucleus to activate other proteins or transcription factors. In the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii the pathway for nitrogen (N) assimilation is well characterized, yet its regulation still has many unknown features. Nitric oxide (NO) is a fundamental signal molecule for N regulation, where nitrate reductase (NR) plays a central role in its synthesis. The MAPK cascades could be regulating N assimilation, since it has been described that the phosphorylation of NR by MAPK6 promotes NO production in Arabidopsis thaliana. We have identified the proteins involved in the MAPK cascades in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, finding 17 MAPKs, 2 MAPKKs and 108 MAPKKKs (11 MEKK-, 94 RAF- and 3 ZIK-type) that have been structurally and phylogenetically characterized. The genetic expressions of MAPKs and the MAPKK were slightly regulated by N. However, the genetic expressions of MAPKKKs RAF14 and RAF79 showed a very strong repression by ammonium, which suggests that they may have a key role in the regulation of N assimilation, encouraging to further analyze in detail the role of MAPK cascades in the regulation of N metabolism.
Unexpected Impact of a Hepatitis C Virus Inhibitor on 17β-Estradiol Signaling in Breast Cancer
Authors: Bartoloni Stefania , Leone Stefano , Acconcia Filippo
Published: May 2020

17β-Estradiol (E2) controls diverse physiological processes, including cell proliferation, through its binding to estrogen receptor α (ERα). E2:ERα signaling depends on both the receptor subcellular localization (e.g., nucleus, plasma membrane) and intracellular ERα abundance. Indeed, the control of ERα levels is necessary for the effects of E2, and E2 itself induces ERα degradation and cell proliferation in parallel. Thus, the modulation of intracellular ERα levels is a critical parameter for E2-induced cell proliferation. Therefore, we used this parameter as a bait to identify compounds that influence ERα levels and E2-dependent proliferation in breast cancer (BC) cells from a library of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs. We found that telaprevir (Tel) reduces ERα levels and inhibits BC cell proliferation. Tel is an inhibitor of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3/4A serine protease, but its effect on E2:ERα signaling has not been investigated. Here, for the first time, we analyzed the effects of Tel on intracellular ERα levels and E2:ERα signaling to cell proliferation in different ERα-expressing BC cell lines. Overall, our findings demonstrate that Tel reduces intracellular ERα levels, deregulates E2:ERα signaling and inhibits E2-induced proliferation in BC cells and suggest the potential drug repurposing of Tel for the treatment of BC.
Drift of Scroll Waves in a Mathematical Model of a Heterogeneous Human Heart Left Ventricle
Authors: Pravdin Sergey , Konovalov Pavel , Dierckx Hans , Solovyova Olga , Panfilov Alexander V.
Published: May 2020

Rotating spiral waves of electrical excitation underlie many dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. The heterogeneity of myocardium is one of the factors that affects the dynamics of such waves. In this paper, we present results of our simulations for scroll wave dynamics in a heterogeneous model of the human left ventricle with analytical anatomically based representation of the geometry and anisotropy. We used a set of 18 coupled differential equations developed by ten Tusscher and Panfilov (TP06 model) which describes human ventricular cells based on their measured biophysical properties. We found that apicobasal heterogeneity dramatically changes the scroll wave dynamics. In the homogeneous model, the scroll wave annihilates at the base, but the moderate heterogeneity causes the wave to move to the apex and then continuously rotates around it. The rotation speed increased with the degree of the heterogeneity. However, for large heterogeneity, we observed formation of additional wavebreaks and the onset of complex spatio-temporal patterns. Transmural heterogeneity did not change the dynamics and decreased the lifetime of the scroll wave with an increase in heterogeneity. Results of our numerical experiments show that the apex may be a preferable location of the scroll wave, which may be important for development of clinical interventions.
Enhancement of the Antioxidant, Anti-Tyrosinase, and Anti-Hyaluronidase Activity of Morus alba L. Leaf Extract by Pulsed Electric Field Extraction
Authors: Chaiyana Wantida , Sirithunyalug Jakkapan , Somwongin Suvimol , Punyoyai Chanun , Laothaweerungsawat Natnaree , Marsup Pachabadee , Neimkhum Waranya , Yawootti Artit
Published: May 2020

In this study we aimed to compare the chemical composition and biological activity between Morus alba L. leaf extract obtained with 95% v/v ethanol using a pulsed electric field (PEF) and the conventional maceration method. Extracts of M. alba leaves collected from Chiang Mai (CM), Sakon Nakon (SK), and Buriram (BR), Thailand, were investigated for 1-deoxynojirimycin content by high-performance liquid chromatography and for total phenolic content by the Folin–Ciocalteu method. Antioxidant activity was investigated by 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2’-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Anti-tyrosinase and anti-hyaluronidase activity was investigated by in vitro spectrophotometry. The results show that this is the first study to indicate PEF as a novel method for enhancing the phenolic content and antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and anti-hyaluronidase activity of M. alba leaf extract (P < 0.05). PEF extract of M. alba leaves collected from BR had comparable ABTS•+ scavenging activity to l-ascorbic acid and comparable anti-tyrosinase activity to kojic acid (P > 0.05). On the other hand, PEF extract of M. alba leaves collected from SK exhibited significantly high anti-hyaluronidase activity, comparable to that of oleanolic acid (P > 0.05). Therefore, PEF is suggested for further M. alba leaf extraction in the production of natural whitening and anti-aging cosmetic ingredients.
Rational Design, Synthesis, Characterization and Evaluation of Iodinated 4,4′-Bipyridines as New Transthyretin Fibrillogenesis Inhibitors
Authors: Dessì Alessandro , Peluso Paola , Dallocchio Roberto , Weiss Robin , Andreotti Giuseppina , Allocca Mariateresa , Aubert Emmanuel , Pale Patrick , Mamane Victor , Cossu Sergio
Published: May 2020

The 3,3′,5,5′-tetrachloro-2-iodo-4,4′-bipyridine structure is proposed as a novel chemical scaffold for the design of new transthyretin (TTR) fibrillogenesis inhibitors. In the frame of a proof-of-principle exploration, four chiral 3,3′,5,5′-tetrachloro-2-iodo-2′-substituted-4,4′- bipyridines were rationally designed and prepared from a simple trihalopyridine in three steps, including a Cu-catalysed Finkelstein reaction to introduce iodine atoms on the heteroaromatic scaffold, and a Pd-catalysed coupling reaction to install the 2′-substituent. The corresponding racemates, along with other five chiral 4,4′-bipyridines containing halogens as substituents, were enantioseparated by high-performance liquid chromatography in order to obtain pure enantiomer pairs. All stereoisomers were tested against the amyloid fibril formation (FF) of wild type (WT)-TTR and two mutant variants, V30M and Y78F, in acid mediated aggregation experiments. Among the 4,4′-bipyridine derivatives, interesting inhibition activity was obtained for both enantiomers of the 3,3′,5,5′-tetrachloro-2′-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-iodo-4,4′-bipyridine. In silico docking studies were carried out in order to explore possible binding modes of the 4,4′-bipyridine derivatives into the TTR. The gained results point out the importance of the right combination of H-bond sites and the presence of iodine as halogen-bond donor. Both experimental and theoretical evidences pave the way for the utilization of the iodinated 4,4′-bipyridine core as template to design new promising inhibitors of TTR amyloidogenesis.
Efficient and Divergent Enantioselective Syntheses of DHPVs and Anti-Inflammatory Effect on IEC-6 Cells
Authors: Kim Hyun Su , Chung Sungkyun , Song Moon-Young , Lim Changjin , Shin Hyeyoung , Hur Joonseong , Kwon Hyuk , Suh Young-Ger , Kim Eun-Hee , Shin Dongyun , Kim Seok-Ho
Published: May 2020

Despite numerous reports on the beneficial effects of catechin or epicatechin contained in tea and cacao extract on human health, a conclusive and precise molecular mechanism has not been elucidated. Metabolism of chemical compounds in gut microbiota recently gained significant attention, and extensive studies have been devoted in this field. In conjunction with these results, our group focused on the anti-inflammatory effects of both enantiomers of DHPV (5-(3′,4′-dihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone), produced in the intestine by microbiota metabolism, on IEC-6 cells. Divergent and efficient enantioselective synthesis of (S)- and (R)-DHPV was efficiently achieved by cross-metathesis and Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation as a key reaction for four steps in 16% and 14% overall yields, respectively. The anti-inflammatory effects of two enantiomers were tested on IEC-6 cells, and we found that (S)-DHPV was more active than (R)-DHPV. This result implicates that the metabolite produced in the gut has beneficial effects on IEC-6 cells of rat intestines, and the chirality of the metabolite is important for its anti-inflammatory activity. This also provided information for the future discovery of novel small molecular therapeutics for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
Can We Discover Truffle’s True Identity?
Authors: Hamzić Gregorčič Staša , Strojnik Lidija , Potočnik Doris , Vogel-Mikuš Katarina , Jagodic Marta , Camin Federica , Zuliani Tea , Ogrinc Nives
Published: May 2020

This study used elemental and stable isotope composition to characterize Slovenian truffles and used multi-variate statistical analysis to classify truffles according to species and geographical origin. Despite the fact that the Slovenian truffles shared some similar characteristics with the samples originating from other countries, differences in the element concentrations suggest that respective truffle species may respond selectively to nutrients from a certain soil type under environmental and soil conditions. Cross-validation resulted in a 77% correct classification rate for determining the geographical origin and a 74% correct classification rate to discriminate between species. The critical parameters for geographical origin discriminations were Sr, Ba, V, Pb, Ni, Cr, Ba/Ca and Sr/Ca ratios, while from stable isotopes δ18O and δ13C values are the most important. The key variables that distinguish T. magnatum from other species are the levels of V and Zn and δ15N values. Tuber aestivum can be separated based on the levels of Ni, Cr, Mn, Mg, As, and Cu. This preliminary study indicates the possibility to differentiate truffles according to their variety and geographical origin and suggests widening the scope to include stable strontium isotopes.
A Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of the Anti-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Compound 4-N-Carbobenzoxy-gemcitabine (Cbz-dFdC)
Authors: Sun Yilin , Wang Jiankun , Hao Kun
Published: May 2020

Gemcitabine (dFdC) demonstrates significant effectiveness against solid tumors in vitro and in vivo; however, its clinical application is limited because it tends to easily undergo deamination metabolism. Therefore, we synthesized 4-N-carbobenzoxy-gemcitabine (Cbz-dFdC) as a lead prodrug and conducted a detailed pharmacokinetic, metabolic, and pharmacodynamic evaluation. After intragastric Cbz-dFdC administration, the Cmax of Cbz-dFdC and dFdC was 451.1 ± 106.7 and 1656.3 ± 431.5 ng/mL, respectively. The Tmax of Cbz-dFdC and dFdC was 2 and 4 h, respectively. After intragastric administration of Cbz-dFdC, this compound was mainly distributed in the intestine due to low carboxylesterase-1 (CES1) activity. Cbz-dFdC is activated by CES1 in both humans and rats. The enzyme kinetic curves were well fitted by the Michaelis–Menten equation in rats’ blood, plasma, and tissue homogenates and S9 of the liver and kidney, as well as human liver S9 and CES1 recombinase. The pharmacodynamic results showed that the Cbz-dFdC have a good antitumor effect in the HepG2 cell and in tumor-bearing mice, respectively. In general, Cbz-dFdC has good pharmaceutical characteristics and is therefore a good candidate for a potential prodrug.
Doxorubicin Loaded Poloxamer Thermosensitive Hydrogels: Chemical, Pharmacological and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Chung Chih Kit , García-Couce Jomarien , Campos Yaima , Kralisch Dana , Bierau Katja , Chan Alan , Ossendorp Ferry , Cruz Luis Javier
Published: May 2020

(1) Background: doxorubicin is a potent chemotherapeutic agent, but it has limitations regarding its side effects and therapy resistance. Hydrogels potentially deal with these problems, but several characterizations need to be optimized to better understand how hydrogel assisted chemotherapy works. Poloxamer 407 (P407) hydrogels were mixed with doxorubicin and physico-chemical, biological, and pharmacological characterizations were considered. (2) Methods: hydrogels were prepared by mixing P407 in PBS at 4 °C. Doxorubicin was added upon solutions became clear. Time-to-gelation, hydrogel morphology, and micelles were studied first. The effects of P407-doxorubicin were evaluated on MC-38 colon cancer cells. Furthermore, doxorubicin release was assessed and contrasted with non-invasive in vivo whole body fluorescence imaging. (3) Results: 25% P407 had favorable gelation properties with pore sizes of 30–180 µm. P407 micelles were approximately 5 nm in size. Doxorubicin was fully released in vitro from 25% P407 hydrogel within 120 h. Furthermore, P407 micelles strongly enhanced the anti-neoplastic effects of doxorubicin on MC-38 cells. In vivo fluorescence imaging revealed that hydrogels retained fluorescence signals at the injection site for 168 h. (4) Conclusions: non-invasive imaging showed how P407 gels retained drug at the injection site. Doxorubicin P407 micelles strongly enhanced the anti-tumor effects.
Synergistic Anti Leukemia Effect of a Novel Hsp90 and a Pan Cyclin Dependent Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Abdalla Ashraf N. , Abdallah Mohamed E. , Aslam Akhmed , Bader Ammar , Vassallo Antonio , Tommasi Nunziatina De , Malki Waleed H. , Gouda Ahmed M. , Mukhtar Mohammed H. , El-Readi Mahmoud Zaki , Alkahtani Hamad M. , Abdel-Aziz Alaa A.-M. , El-Azab Adel S.
Published: May 2020

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is among the top four malignancies in Saudi nationals, and it is the top leukemia subtype worldwide. Resistance to available AML drugs requires the identification of new targets and agents. Hsp90 is one of the emerging important targets in AML, which has a central role in the regulation of apoptosis and cell proliferation through client proteins including the growth factor receptors and cyclin dependent kinases. The objective of the first part of this study is to investigate the putative Hsp90 inhibition activity of three novel previously synthesized quinazolines, which showed HL60 cytotoxicity and VEGFR2 and EGFR kinases inhibition activities. Using surface plasmon resonance, compound 1 (HAA2020) showed better Hsp90 inhibition compared to 17-AAG, and a docking study revealed that it fits nicely into the ATPase site. The objective of the second part is to maximize the anti-leukemic activity of HAA2020, which was combined with each of the eleven standard inhibitors. The best resulting synergistic effect in HL60 cells was with the pan cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) inhibitor dinaciclib, using an MTT assay. Furthermore, the inhibiting effect of the Hsp90α gene by the combination of HAA2020 and dinaciclib was associated with increased caspase-7 and TNF-α, leading to apoptosis in HL60 cells. In addition, the combination upregulated p27 simultaneously with the inhibition of cyclinD3 and CDK2, leading to abolished HL60 proliferation and survival. The actions of HAA2020 propagated the apoptotic and cell cycle control properties of dinaciclib, showing the importance of co-targeting Hsp90 and CDK, which could lead to the better management of leukemia.
Computational Methods for the Identification of Molecular Targets of Toxic Food Additives. Butylated Hydroxytoluene as a Case Study
Authors: Tortosa Valentina , Pietropaolo Valentina , Brandi Valentina , Macari Gabriele , Pasquadibisceglie Andrea , Polticelli Fabio
Published: May 2020

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is one of the most commonly used synthetic antioxidants in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and petrochemical products. BHT is considered safe for human health; however, its widespread use together with the potential toxicological effects have increased consumers concern about the use of this synthetic food additive. In addition, the estimated daily intake of BHT has been demonstrated to exceed the recommended acceptable threshold. In the present work, using BHT as a case study, the usefulness of computational techniques, such as reverse screening and molecular docking, in identifying protein–ligand interactions of food additives at the bases of their toxicological effects has been probed. The computational methods here employed have been useful for the identification of several potential unknown targets of BHT, suggesting a possible explanation for its toxic effects. In silico analyses can be employed to identify new macromolecular targets of synthetic food additives and to explore their functional mechanisms or side effects. Noteworthy, this could be important for the cases in which there is an evident lack of experimental studies, as is the case for BHT.