bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KESENIAN KOBRO SISWO KOMUNITAS SINAR MUDA DESA SALAKAN KABUPATEN TEMANGGUNG (Kajian Holistik)
Authors: Fatmawati Kiki , Haryono Sutarno
Published: July 2020

AbstrakPenulisan Skripsi ini bertujuan untuk mengungkap kesenian Kobro Siswo komunitas Sinar Muda dari segi kritik seni holistik untuk mendeskripsikan dan menganalisa tentang : (1) faktor genetik, membahas mengenai latar belakang terbentuknya kesenian Kobro Siswo komunitas Sinar Muda (2) faktor objektif, membahas komponen verbal dan komponen non-verbal, mendeskripsikan menjelaskan hubungan komponen non-verbal dan verbal (3) faktor afektif, menjelaskan respon atau tanggapan penghayat (4) menjelaskan makna kesenian Kobro Siswo komunitas Sinar Muda. Bentuk penelitian adalah penelitian kualitatif deskriptif, dengan menggunakan pendekatan kritik seni holistik. Teori yang digunakan untuk mengakaji kesenian Kobro Siswo komunitas Sinar Muda adalah : (1) Teori pragmatik untuk mengkaji komponen verbal dan koneksitas komponen verbal dan non-verbal, (2) Teori seni pertunjukan untuk mengkaji komponen non-verbal dan verbal. Simpulan didapat berdasarkan analisis koneksitas faktor genetik, objektif, afektif. Kesenian Kobro Siswo komunitas Sinar Muda merupakan kesenian yang berfungsi sebagai hiburan dan media dakwah. Kesenian Kobro Siswo komunitas Sinar Muda memberikan pesan moral yaitu mengajarkan pentingnya menjadi manusia yang memiliki semangat pantang menyerah dan selalu ingat kepada Tuhan Yang Maha Esa.Kata kunci: Kobro Siswo komunitas Sinar Muda, kritik seni holistik, pragmatik.AbstractThe aim of this thesis is to uncover the art of Kobro Siswo in the Sinar Muda community from a holistic art criticism perspective in order to describe and analyze: (1) the genetic factors, including a discussion of the background to the formation of the art of Kobro Siswo in the Sinar Muda community; (2) the objective factors, including a discussion of the verbal and non-verbal components and a description of the relationship between the verbal and non-verbal components; (3) the affective factors, including an explanation of the response or reaction of the audience; and (4) an explanation of the meaning of the art of Kobro Siswo in the Sinar Muda community. The form of the research is descriptive qualitative with a holistic art criticism approach. The theories used to study the art of Kobro Siswo in the Sinar Muda community are: (1) The theory of pragmatics to study the verbal component and the connection between the verbal and non-verbal components. (2) The theory of performing arts to study the verbal and non-verbal components. The conclusion is obtained based on an analysis of the connection between the genetic, objective, and affective factors, and shows that the art of Kobro Siswo in the Sinar Muda community is an art that functions both as entertainment and as a medium for religious proselytization. The art of Kobro Siswo in the Sinar Muda community present moral messages which teach about the importance of becoming a human being with a spirit that never gives up and always remembers Almighty God.Keywords: Kobro Siswo Sinar Muda community, holistic art criticism, pragmatic.
Simulación de la proteína SPIKE COVID19 en laboratorios de informática educativa
Authors: Blanco Erwin , Sáez-Delgado Fabiola , Blanco Lorena
Published: July 2020

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las proteínas son una de las moléculas orgánicas que cumplen funciones vitales en la mantención de la vida y reproducción celular, su fabricación es un proceso complejo gobernado por una secuencia de plegamientos aún desconocida. En el contexto del Covid19, la iniciativa Folding@home llevó a cabo un proyecto de computación distribuida que permite la simulación del proceso de plegamiento de la proteína Spike del Covid19, cuya función es acoplarse al receptor ACE2 de las células animales y así penetrar a la célula y utilizar su maquinaria para reproducirse. OBJETIVO: Probar que el tiempo computacional ocioso disponible en los laboratorios de informática educacionales, puede ser usado para la simulación del plegamiento de proteínas. MÉTODO: Esta fue una investigación descriptiva donde se instaló un software cliente en computadores de gama baja que continuamente enviaron unidades de trabajo de plegamiento proteico a un servidor central. RESULTADOS: Tras 90 días de trabajo, un clúster de 27 PCs finalizaron 1993 unidades de trabajo de simulación de la proteína Spike. DISCUSIÓN Y CONCLUSIONES: A pesar de que el piloteo fue un éxito, se advierte que el software cliente debe ser optimizado para sacar el máximo de provecho a los diferentes procesadores y sistemas operativos con los cuales es compatible el software de computación distribuida proveído por Folding@home.
Jane Addams'ın Unutulan Mirasını Hatırlamak: Sosyal Hizmet Uygulaması Bağlamında Sporun Gücü ve Potansiyeli Üzerine Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: Mayda Fethi Anıl
Published: July 2020

Tarihsel süreçte spor, çeşitli sosyal değişimlerin yarattığı problemlerin olumsuz etkilerinin giderilmesi ve çözümü amacıyla sosyal hizmet meslek ve disiplininde kullanılmış bir müdahale aracı olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Literatürde spora ve sporun çeşitli sosyal sorunların çözümünde bir müdahale aracı olarak kullanılmasına ilişkin çeşitli eleştiriler olsa da gücü ve potansiyeline ilişkin önemli kanıtların ortaya konduğu görülmektedir. Sosyal hizmet bakış açısı, odağa alınan bireylerin, grupların ve toplumların güçlü yanlarına odaklanmayı vurgular. Bu sebeple bir müdahale aracı olarak sporun da güçlü yönlerine ve potansiyeline odaklanmanın, sosyal hizmet öğretisiyle daha uyumlu olacağı ifade edilebilir. Bu bağlamda çalışma, sosyal hizmet mesleği ve disiplini için unutulmuş bir miras olan sporun bir müdahale aracı olarak güçlü yanlarını ve potansiyelini literatürde yer alan güncel çalışmalardan hareketle incelemektedir.
Soma Maden Kazası Sonrası Yaşanan Ailevi ve Psikolojik Sorunlar
Authors: Aydın Güler , Yıldırım Şeyda
Published: July 2020

13 Mayıs 2014 tarihinde Soma’da yaşanan maden kazası, Türkiye'de en çok insan kaybının yaşandığı maden kazasıdır. Bu çalışmanın amacı; Soma Maden Kazasından sağ kurtulan işçilerin psikolojik ve aile içi yaşam deneyimlerini öğrenmektir. Nitel araştırma yöntemi ile tasarlanan çalışmada, Soma maden kazasını birebir yaşamış ve hala Soma’da ikamet eden 14 maden işçisi ile Aralık 2014’te derinlemesine görüşmeler yapılmıştır. Tematik analiz kullanılan çalışmada; yaşanan psikolojik sorunlar, yaşanan psikolojik sorunların çözüm yöntemleri, yaşanan ailevi sorunlar ve yaşanan ailevi sorunların çözüm yöntemleri teması altında oluşturulmuştur. Bulgular değerlendirildiğinde uykusuzluk, asosyal davranışlar, kapalı alan korkusu, mezar ve ölüm korkusu, karanlıktan korkma ve karanlıkta uyuyamama, kaza ile ilgili rüyalar görme, olayı tekrar yaşama (flashback), unutkanlık gibi psikolojik sorunların yaşandığı; aile içinde ise sinirli olma hali ve maddi imkansızlıkların sorun ortaya çıkardığı görülmüştür. Yaşanan sorunların çözümünde sosyal desteğin ön planda olduğu görülmüştür. Sosyal hizmet mesleğinin, maden kazası sonrasında, afet yönetim sistemi içinde koordinasyonun sağlanması, ihtiyaç analizinin sistematik yapılması ve kazazedelerin ve ailelerinin ihtiyaçlarının belirlenmesi noktasında yer alması gerektiği düşünülmektedir.
EVDEN KAÇAN ÇOCUKLAR: ANKARA’DA ÇOCUK ŞUBEYE GETİRİLEN ÇOCUKLAR ÜZERİNDEN BİR DEĞERLENDİRME
Authors: Karataş Kasım , Akbaş Emrah , Erükçü Akbaş Gamze , Çamuşcu Ezgi
Published: July 2020

Bu çalışmanın amacı; Ankara ilinde evden kaçan çocukların ve ailelerinin sosyo-demografik özelliklerini ve çocukların evden kaçma nedenlerini ortaya koymaktır. Çalışmada; çocukların evden kaçmasına yardım eden kişilerin var olup olmadığı, çocukların evden kaçtıklarında nerede kaldıkları ve kaçtıktan sonra suça karışma durumları da ele alınmaktadır.Çalışmada nicel araştırma yöntemi izlenmiş; 140’ı evden kaçmış, 20’si ise evden kaçıp kurum bakımına alınmış 160 çocuk üzerinden çeşitli değerlendirmeler yapılmıştır. Çalışmanın bulgularına göre, evden kaçan çocukların önemli bir kısmı (%73,1) kız çocuklarından oluşmaktadır. Evden kaçan her 4 çocuktan 1’i eğitimine devam edememektedir. Çocukların %16,9’u ilk evden kaçma deneyimini 9-12 yaşları arasında deneyimlemiştir. Evden kaçma nedenleri arasında, anne babanın sıkı disiplini (%35,3), anne babanın fiziksel şiddeti (%4,6), anne babanın ayrılması (%5,9), ekonomik sorunlar (%2,6), kardeşler arasında anlaşmazlık (%1,3), fuhuş yapmaya zorlanma (%0,7) ve istemediği biriyle evliliğe zorlanma (%0,7) gibi aile içi nedenler (%51,1) öne çıkmaktadır. Çocuklar okul başarısızlığı (%2) ve yaşadıkları ruhsal sorunlardan (%4,6) kaynaklı olarak da evden kaçtıklarını ifade etmektedirler. Bu konuların da aile içi ilişkiler ve sorunlarla ilişkilendirilmesi olanaklıdır; bu bağlamda aile temelli sorunlar nedeniyle evden kaçan çocuk oranının %60’a yaklaştığı dikkati çekmektedir. Evden kaçma nedenleri arasında arkadaş etkisi altında kalma ya da kız/erkek arkadaşına kaçma gibi nedenler (%19,6) de dikkat çekicidir. Evden kaçan çocukların %64,3’ü geceyi sokak ve terk edilmiş binalarda geçirmekte; dışarda kalınan ve uyunan bu zamanlarda çocukların bir bölümünün (%13,2) çeşitli suçların mağduru olduğu görülmektedir. Bu çocuklar cinsel istismar, şiddet, darp, kaçırılma ve alıkonulma gibi suç türlerine maruz kalmıştır. Çocukların evden kaçma nedenleri cinsiyete göre farklılaşmamaktadır (*p>0,05).
SOSYAL HİZMET BÖLÜMÜ ÖĞRENCİLERİNİN SOSYAL ÇALIŞMACI KAVRAMINA YÖNELİK METAFORLARI
Authors: Apak Hıdır
Published: July 2020

Bu araştırmanın temel amacı, sosyal hizmet bölümü öğrencilerinin sosyal çalışmacı kavramına ilişkin sahip oldukları algıları metaforlar aracılığıyla ortaya çıkarmak ve bu metaforları derinlemesine incelemektir. Çalışma Bingöl Üniversitesi Sosyal Hizmet bölümünde öğrenim gören 172 öğrencinin katılımıyla gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın verileri her öğrencinin, “Sosyal çalışmacı/ … gibidir/benzemektedir. Çünkü,…” cümlesini tamamlamasıyla elde edilmiştir. Veriler içerik analizi tekniğiyle çözümlenmiştir. Bu araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre, öğrenciler sosyal çalışmacı kavramına yönelik olarak 72 farklı metafor üretmişlerdir. Bu metaforlar üzerinden ortak özellikleri dikkate alınarak altı farklı tema belirlenmiştir. Bu temalar; ‘tedavi edici’, ‘dayanak noktası ve koruyucu’, ‘yol gösteren’, ‘yardımsever ve kurtarıcı’, ‘şefkat ve sevgi kaynağı’ ve ‘çok yönlü’ şeklindedir. Öğrencilerin sosyal çalışmacı için kullandıkları metaforlar genellikle sosyal çalışmacıların müracaatçı ile ilişkisi üzerinden yapıldığı ortaya çıkmaktadır. Ayrıca metaforlar genellikle sosyal çalışmacıların amaçları, rol ve işlevleri üzerinden kurgulanmıştır.
ADLİ GÖRÜŞME ODALARINDA SUÇ MAĞDURLARIYLA GÖRÜŞME YAPAN ADLİ GÖRÜŞMECİLERİN DENEYİMLERİNİN İNCELENMESİ: ESKİŞEHİR ADLİYESİ
Authors: Şamar Berhudan , Urhan Betül
Published: July 2020

görüşme odalarında, suç mağdurlarının ifade alma süreçlerine katılan adli görüşmecilerin uygulamaya ilişkin algı ve deneyimlerinin ortaya çıkarılmasıdır. Adli görüşmecilerin ifade alım süreçlerindeki deneyimlerini ve uygulamaya ilişkin algılarını belirlemede, nitel araştırma yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Araştırma 2018 Şubat ayında Eskişehir Adliyesinde, adli görüşme odalarında görüşme yapan 26-42 yaş arasındaki 12 adli görüşmeci ile yürütülmüştür. 7 sosyal çalışmacı, 3 pedagog ve 2 psikologla yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu esas alınarak derinlemesine görüşmeler yapılmıştır. Verilerin değerlendirilmesinde fenomenolojik analiz yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda, suç mağdurlarının ifadelerinin duruşma salonları yerine AGO’larda alınmasıyla, mağdurların sanıkları hiçbir zaman görmediği ve hâkim/savcıların sorularına doğrudan maruz kalmadığı için örselenmelerinin azaldığı görülmüştür. Ancak AGO sürecinde uygulayıcılar arasındaki işbirliği ve eşgüdüm eksikliği ile ortak dil ve anlayış farkı, belirleyici güç olan hâkim/savcıların kırılgan grup konusundaki eğitim eksiklikleri, mağdurun AGO’da ifade alınmasına sadece hâkim/savcının karar vermesi, teknik aksaklıklar, bekleme süresinin fazlalığı yaşanan sorunlardandır. Adli görüşmecilere hazırlık yapabilecekleri ve görüşme sırasında müdahale teknikleri uygulayabilecekleri gerekli koşulların sağlanması, mağdurun kırılganlık tespitinde ve mağdurla görüşme sürecinde adli görüşmeciye daha fazla söz, yetki ve sorumluluk tanınması, teknik aksaklıkların giderilmesi ve fiziksel koşulların iyileştirilmesi uygulamanın işlevselliğini arttıracağı öngörülmüştür.
Hubungan Kadar Lipid Darah Dengan Degenerative Disc Disease Berdasarkan Klasifikasi Pfirrmann Menggunakan Magnetic Resonance Imaging Lumbosacral pada Pasien Nyeri Punggung Bawah
Authors: Indra Ryan , Ilyas Muhammad , Muis Mirna , Murtala Bachtiar , Alfian Andi , Kaelan Cahyono
Published: July 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui hubungan serum lipid darah dengan degenerative disc disease berdasarkan klasifikasi pfirrmann menggunakan magnetic resonance imaging lumbosacral pada pasien nyeri punggung bawah. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Departemen Radiologi RS. Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Makassar mulai bulan Oktober 2018 sampai Januari 2019. Subjek sebanyak 52 orang dengan rentang usia 30 - 60 tahun. Metode yang digunakan adalah uji Spearman. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat korelasi antara kadar low-density lipoprotein (LDL) dan trigliserida serum dengan degenerative disc disease dengan nilai p=0.02 (p0.05). Semakin tinggi kadar LDL dan trigliserida maka derajat degerative disc disease cendereng semakin berat. Tidak terdapat korelasi antara HDL dengan degenerative disc disease. Secara statistik tidak terdapat korelasi antara kolesterol total dengan degenerative disc disease. Namun, didapatkan pada grafik nilai kolesterol total pada setiap derajat degenerative disc disease meningkat.
Biogeographical variation in the distribution, abundance, and interactions among key species on rocky reefs of the northeast Pacific
Authors: Jenkinson RS , Hovel KA , Dunn RP , Edwards MS
Published: July 2020

Macroecological research over large latitudinal gradients can reveal broad-scale patterns that provide context for local-scale studies and insight into relevant scales of variation in community structure. Grazing by sea urchins is one of numerous physical and biotic factors that leads to geographic variation in community structure on rocky reefs worldwide. We describe patterns of abundance, distribution, and trophic interactions of urchins and their predators on subtidal rocky reefs across much of their range in the northeast Pacific Ocean. Surveys and tethering experiments were conducted between Point Conception, California, USA, and Bahía Asunción, Baja California Sur, México, including both fished areas and marine protected areas (MPAs). Variability in abundance was greatest at the smallest spatial scales (transects and sites) rather than the largest spatial scale (regions); however, we found correlative evidence of region-wide top-down control in which higher densities of predators (primarily spiny lobsters) led to increased abundances of kelpMacrocystis pyrifera. Similarly, urchin survival varied regionally, with survival rates increasing from south to north. The effect of MPAs was less clear: species abundances varied between individual MPAs, but there were no clear differences in urchin survival between MPAs and fished areas. Community structure of rocky reefs in this region varies substantially among sites and appears to be driven in some locations by predators and in others by factors that obscure the importance of trophic interactions. Our study provides empirical evidence of the variability in top-down forcing in these communities and cautions against making broad generalizations based on inferences from local-scale studies.
Environmental Sustainability of Plastic in Agriculture
Authors: Maraveas Chrysanthos
Published: July 2020

This article investigates the environmental sustainability of plastic nets in agricultural environments based on published experimental data. This article focuses on biodegradable and synthetic plastics used in farms as mulching materials and shade materials/greenhouse covering materials (shade nets and plastic films) to protect plants from pests and extreme weather. The sustainability was determined by three factors, carbon footprint from cradle to the end of life (LCA), durability (resistance to photo-oxidation and high tensile strength), and affordability. The LCA analyses showed that the production of polyethylene (PE) requires less energy and generates low quantities of greenhouse gas equivalents. Beyond the LCA data, biodegradable polymers are sustainable based on biodegradability and compostability, ability to suppress weeds, control soil temperatures, and moisture, and augment fertigation and drip irrigation. However, existing technologies are a limiting factor because lab-based innovations have not been commercialized. In addition, industrial production of shade nets, plastic greenhouse covers, and mulching materials are limited to synthetic plastics. The bio-based plastic materials are sustainable based on biodegradability, and resistant to photo-oxidation. The resistance to UV degradation is an essential property because solar radiation cleaves C-C bonds, which in turn impact the mechanical strength of the materials. In brief, the sustainability of plastics in farms is influenced by LCA data, mechanical and optical properties, and performance relative to other materials.
Efficient Regeneration of Hedychium coronarium through Protocorm-Like Bodies
Authors: Hu Xiu , Tan Jiachuan , Chen Jianjun , Li Yongquan , Huang Jiaqi
Published: July 2020

Hedychium coronarium J. Koenig is a multipurpose plant with significant economic value, but it has been overexploited and listed as a vulnerable, near threatened or endangered species. In vitro culture methods have been used for propagating disease-free propagules for its conservation and production. However, explant contamination has been a bottleneck in in vitro propagation due to the use of rhizomes as the explant source. Plants in the family Zingiberaceae have pseudostems that support inflorescences, while rhizomes are considered true stems. The present study, for the first time, reported that the pseudostem bears nodes and vegetative buds and could actually be true stems. The evaluation of different sources of explants showed that mature node explants derived from the stem were the most suitable ones for in vitro culture because of the lowest contamination and the highest bud break rates. Culture of mature node explants on MS medium supplemented with 13.32, 17.76, and 22.20 μM 6-benzylaminopurine (BA), each in combination with 9.08 μM thidiazurin (TDZ) and 0.05 μM α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) induced the conversion of buds to micro-rhizomes in six weeks. More than 96% of the micro-rhizomes cultured on MS medium supplemented with 17.76 μM BA, 6.81 μM TDZ, and 2.46 μM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) were converted to globular-shaped clumps with protocorm-like bodies (PLBs). Further culture of a piece of the clumps induced more than 15 adventitious shoots. Adventitious roots were produced at the base of adventitious shoots, and plantlets were readily transplanted to a substrate for acclimatization in a shaded greenhouse. The survival rate of the plants in the greenhouse was up to 90%. Plants grew vigorously, and there were no off-types from the regenerated 11,100 plants. Our study also, for the first time, shows that H. coronarium can be regenerated via PLBs, which may represent a new way of the in vitro propagation of H. coronarium. The established protocol could be used for the increased propagation of H. coronarium for conservation or commercial production.
Antimicrobial Activity against Paenibacillus larvae and Functional Properties of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Strains: Potential Benefits for Honeybee Health
Authors: Iorizzo Massimo , Testa Bruno , Lombardi Silvia Jane , Ganassi Sonia , Ianiro Mario , Letizia Francesco , Succi Mariantonietta , Tremonte Patrizio , Vergalito Franca , Cozzolino Autilia , Sorrentino Elena , Coppola Raffaele , Petrarca Sonia , Mancini Massimo , De Cristofaro Antonio
Published: July 2020

Paenibacillus larvae is the causative agent of American foulbrood (AFB), a severe bacterial disease that affects larvae of honeybees. The present study evaluated, in vitro, antimicrobial activity of sixty-one Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains, against P. larvae ATCC 9545. Five strains (P8, P25, P86, P95 and P100) that showed the greatest antagonism against P. larvae ATCC 9545 were selected for further physiological and biochemical characterizations. In particular, the hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, exopolysaccharides production, osmotic tolerance, enzymatic activity and carbohydrate assimilation patterns were evaluated. The five L. plantarum selected strains showed suitable physical and biochemical properties for their use as probiotics in the honeybee diet. The selection and availability of new selected bacteria with good functional characteristics and with antagonistic activity against P. larvae opens up interesting perspectives for new biocontrol strategies of diseases such as AFB.
Hybrid Heme Peroxidases from Rice Blast Fungus Magnaporthe oryzae Involved in Defence against Oxidative Stress
Authors: Zámocký Marcel , Kamlárová Anna , Maresch Daniel , Chovanová Katarína , Harichová Jana , Furtmüller Paul G.
Published: July 2020

Hybrid B heme peroxidases are recently discovered unique oxidoreductases present solely in the fungal kingdom. We have investigated two typical representatives from Magnaporthe oryzae—one of the most dangerous phytopathogens known as a causal agent of the rice blast disease. First, we focused on native expression of two detected hyBpox paralogs by the means of reverse-transcription quantitative real-time PCR. Our results indicate a 7-fold induction of the MohyBpox1 transcript in a medium with H2O2 and a 3-fold induction in a medium with peroxyacetic acid. For the MohyBpox2 paralog the induction patterns were up to 12-fold and 6.7-fold, respectively. We have successfully expressed the shorter gene, MohyBpox1, heterologously in Pichia pastoris for detailed characterization. Observed biochemical and biophysical properties of the highly purified protein reveal that a typical HyBPOX is significantly different from previously investigated APx-CcP hybrids. This newly discovered secretory peroxidase reveals a Soret maximum at 407 nm, Q bands at 532 and 568 nm, CT band at 625 nm and a purity number of 1.48. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis suggests a mixture of high and low spin species in the ferric state dependent on calcium contents. Steady-state kinetic data reveal the highest peroxidase activity with ABTS, 5-aminosalycilate and efficient oxidation of tyrosine. MoHyBPOX1 as a fusion protein consists of two domains. The longer conserved N-terminal peroxidase domain is connected with a shorter C-terminal domain containing a carbohydrate binding motif of type CBM21. We demonstrate the capacity of MoHyBPOX1 to bind soluble starch efficiently. Potential involvement of hybrid peroxidases in the pathogenicity of M. oryzae is discussed.
Modulators of Oxidative Stress: Chemical and Pharmacological Aspects
Authors: Saso Luciano , Gürer-Orhan Hande , Stepanić Višnja
Published: July 2020

Oxidative stress is represented as an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the response of antioxidant proteins [...]
Flavonoids Identification and Pancreatic Beta-Cell Protective Effect of Lotus Seedpod
Authors: Lee Ming-Shih , Chyau Charng-Cherng , Wang Chi-Ping , Wang Ting-Hsuan , Chen Jing-Hsien , Lin Hui-Hsuan
Published: July 2020

Oxidative stress is highly associated with the development of diabetes mellitus (DM), especially pancreatic beta-cell injury. Flavonoids derived from plants have caused important attention in the prevention or treatment of DM. Lotus seedpod belongs to a traditional Chinese herbal medicine and has been indicated to possess antioxidant, anti-age, anti-glycative, and hepatoprotective activities. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the pancreatic beta-cell protective effects of lotus seedpod aqueous extracts (LSE) against oxidative injury. According to HPLC/ESI-MS-MS method, LSE was confirmed to have flavonoids derivatives, especially quercetin-3-glucuronide (Q3G). In vitro, LSE dose-dependently improved the survival and function of rat pancreatic beta-cells (RIN-m5F) from hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-mediated loss of cell viability, impairment of insulin secretion, and promotion of oxidative stress. LSE showed potential in decreasing the H2O2-induced occurrence of apoptosis. In addition, H2O2-triggered acidic vesicular organelle formation and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3)-II upregulation, markers of autophagy, were increased by LSE. Molecular data explored that antiapoptotic and autophagic effects of LSE, comparable to that of Q3G, might receptively be mediated via phospho-Bcl-2-associated death promoter (p-Bad)/B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and class III phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/LC3-II signal pathway. In vivo, LSE improved the DM symptoms and pancreatic cell injury better than metformin, a drug that is routinely prescribed to treat DM. These data implied that LSE induces the autophagic signaling, leading to protect beta-cells from oxidative stress-related apoptosis and injury.
Flavonoids Activation of the Transcription Factor Nrf2 as a Hypothesis Approach for the Prevention and Modulation of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Severity
Authors: Mendonca Patricia , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: July 2020

The Nrf2-Keap1-ARE pathway is the principal regulator of antioxidant and phase II detoxification genes. Its activation increases the expression of antioxidant and cytoprotective proteins, protecting cells against infections. Nrf2 modulates virus-induced oxidative stress, ROS generation, and disease pathogenesis, which are vital in the viral life cycle. During respiratory viral infections, such as the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), an inflammatory process, and oxidative stress of the epithelium lining cells activate the transcription factor Nrf2, which protects cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Nrf2 reduces angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors expression in respiratory epithelial cells. SARS-CoV2 has a high affinity for ACE2 that works as receptors for coronavirus surface spike glycoprotein, facilitating viral entry. Disease severity may also be modulated by pre-existing conditions, such as impaired immune response, obesity, and age, where decreased level of Nrf2 is a common feature. Consequently, Nrf2 activators may increase Nrf2 levels and enhance antiviral mediators’ expression, which could initiate an “antiviral state”, priming cells against viral infection. Therefore, this hypothesis paper describes the use of flavonoid supplements combined with vitamin D3 to activate Nrf2, which may be a potential target to prevent and/or decrease SARS-CoV-2 infection severity, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, enhancing innate immunity, and downregulating ACE2 receptors.
Winemaking Byproducts as Source of Antioxidant Components: Consumers’ Acceptance and Expectations of Phenol-Enriched Plant-Based Food
Authors: Proserpio Cristina , Fia Giovanna , Bucalossi Ginevra , Zanoni Bruno , Spinelli Sara , Dinnella Caterina , Monteleone Erminio , Pagliarini Ella
Published: July 2020

One of the food industry’s priorities is to recover byproducts and move towards more sustainable systems. Among wine-chain byproducts, unripe grapes represent a promising source of antioxidants. However, the development of new foods enriched using phenol-rich ingredients is challenging due to their sensory attributes. The aims of the present study were to (1) use phenol-rich extract from unripe grapes to enrich a model plant-based food (beetroot puree—BP); (2) evaluate consumers’ acceptance and expectations for the beetroot purée samples. The effect of information about the sustainability and pro-health activity of value-added ingredients on consumers’ responses was also investigated. Four beetroot purees with increasing concentrations of phenol extract (0–1.93 g/kg) added were evaluated by 101 participants in three tasting conditions (blind: only samples; expected: only information without tasting; real: both samples and information).Liking slightly decreased with increasing concentrations of phenol extract, even if all the samples were considered acceptable. The health and sustainability information increased the hedonic expectations, although it was not assimilated by all consumers involved. The development of new phenol-enriched foods using functional ingredients from unripe grapes is challenging. However, it is also promising, since all the samples were generally accepted by the consumers and they presented phenol levels that were stable over time and that could have positive health effects when consumed.
Red Wine Oxidation: Accelerated Ageing Tests, Possible Reaction Mechanisms and Application to Syrah Red Wines
Authors: Deshaies Stacy , Cazals Guillaume , Enjalbal Christine , Constantin Thibaut , Garcia François , Mouls Laetitia , Saucier Cédric
Published: July 2020

Wine oxidation and ageing involve many complex chemical pathways and reaction mechanisms. The purpose of this study is to set up new and reproducible accelerated red wine ageing tests and identify chemical oxidation or ageing molecular markers. Three accelerated and reproducible ageing tests were developed: a heat test (60 °C); an enzymatic test (laccase test; a chemical test (hydrogen peroxide test). Depending on the test, oxygen consumption was significantly different. For a young wine (2018), the oxygen consumption rate moved from 2.40 ppm·h−1 for the heat test to 3.33 ppm·h−1 for the enzymatic test and 2.86 ppm·h−1 for the chemical test. Once applied to two other vintages (2010 and 2014) from the same winery, the tests revealed different comportments corresponding to wine natural evolution. High resolution UPLC-MS was performed on forced ageing samples and compared to naturally aged red wines. Specific oxidation or ageing ion markers were found with significant differences between tests, revealing the specificity of each test and different possible molecular pathways involved. The hydrogen peroxide test seems to be closer to natural oxidation with an important decrease in absorbance at 520 nm and similar molecular ion variations for [M+H]+ = 291, 331, 347, 493, 535, 581, 639 Da.
Understanding Indigenous Farming Systems in Response to Climate Change: An Investigation into Soil Erosion in the Mountainous Regions of Central Vietnam
Authors: Huynh Chuong Van , Pham Tung Gia , Nguyen Tan Quang , Nguyen Linh Hoang Khanh , Tran Phuong Thi , Le Quy Ngoc Phuong , Nguyen Mai Thi Hong
Published: July 2020

Soil erosion is a considerable concern in the upland areas of Central Vietnam. This situation is most serious in regions, where the terrain is sloped and subjected to heavy rainfall. Our research was conducted in a mountainous area, belonging to Central Vietnam, the area of Song Kon commune in the Dong Giang district. The objective of this study is first to estimate the impact of soil erosion risk in these areas, and second to assess the capacity of farming systems which are based on indigenous knowledge (IK) to respond to soil erosion. Our data were collected by Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and processed using Geographical Information System (GIS) methods. We then interpreted this research using the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) in order to calculate the soil erosion rate. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) were also used as measurements to compare the difference of land surface covers between different farming systems. The results showed that the lowest soil erosion rate was found in the narrow valley regions, which are populated by both agricultural and residential areas. On the other hand, soil erosion was extremely high in the more northerly quadrant of our research area. Our findings also indicate that local farmers are highly aware of soil erosion, which has positively influenced the adoption of adaptation measures (AMs) in their agricultural activities. The most common AMs are as follows: changes in cropping patterns, the adjustments of their planting calendars, the use of native varieties, and intercropping methods. These AMs are mediated by the cultural observances of the local ethnic minority peoples in relation to their IK. We have concluded that when farmers apply IK in their farming systems, the soil erosion rate tends to decrease as compared with non-indigenous knowledge (NIK) practices. We hope to bring a better understanding of the processes that shape farmers’ AMs and thereby to develop well-targeted adaptation policies that can then be applied at the local level. Our findings may be instrumental in future adaptation planning and policies in regard to climate change, and that they will help to increase awareness not only in matters of the soil erosion but also in other interconnected aspects of climate change in these areas.
Influence of Medium Frequency Light/Dark Cycles on the Cultivation of Auxenochlorella pyrenoidosa
Authors: Chen Zhijie , Su Bosheng
Published: July 2020

Light (wavelength, intensity, and light/dark cycle) have been considered as one of the most important parameters for microalgae cultivation. In this paper, the effect of medium frequency intermittent light on Auxenochlorella pyrenoidosa (formerly Chlorella pyrenoidosa) cultivation was investigated. Three parameters of intermittent light, light intensity, light/dark ratio, and light/dark cycle were employed and the influence of these parameters on the productivity of Auxenochlorella pyrenoidosa was studied. The biomass yield and growth rates were mainly affected by the light fraction and cycle time. Light with 220 μE m−2 s−1 light intensity was determined as the optimal light intensity for biomass production. At the light intensity of 420 μE m−2 s−1, the results indicated that the intermittent light improved the biomass production with larger light/dark ratio compared with the continuous light. At a lower mean light intensity over time, the intermittent light should be more suitable for biomass growth and the decrease in the light/dark ratio (L/D) will lead to a higher biomass productivity. The light/dark cycle time has little influence on the biomass yield.
Sensing Features of the Fano Resonance in an MIM Waveguide Coupled with an Elliptical Ring Resonant Cavity
Authors: Su Hao , Yan Shubin , Yang Xiaoyu , Guo Jing , Wang Jinxi , Hua Ertian
Published: July 2020

In this article, a novel refractive index sensor composed of a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) waveguide with two rectangular stubs coupled with an elliptical ring resonator is proposed, the geometric parameters of which are controlled at a few hundreds of nanometer size. The transmission feature of the structure was studied by the finite element method based on electronic design automation (EDA) software COMSOL Multiphysics 5.4 (Stockholm, Sweden). The rectangular stub resonator can be thought of as a Fabry–Perot (FP) cavity, which can facilitate the Fano resonance. The simulation results reveal that the structure has a symmetric Lorentzian resonance, as well as an ultrasharp and asymmetrical Fano resonance. By adjusting the geometrical parameters, the sensitivity and figure of merit (FOM) of the structure can be optimized flexibly. After adjustments and optimization, the maximum sensitivity can reach up to 1550 nm/RIU (nanometer/Refractive Index Unit) and its FOM is 43.05. This structure presented in this article also has a promising application in highly integrated medical optical sensors to detect the concentration of hemoglobin and monitor body health.
A Maturity Estimation of Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) by Artificial Vision System for Quality Control
Authors: Villaseñor-Aguilar Marcos-Jesús , Bravo-Sánchez Micael-Gerardo , Padilla-Medina José-Alfredo , Vázquez-Vera Jorge Luis , Guevara-González Ramón-Gerardo , García-Rodríguez Francisco-Javier , Barranco-Gutiérrez Alejandro-Israel
Published: July 2020

Sweet bell peppers are a Solanaceous fruit belonging to the Capsicum annuum L. species whose consumption is popular in world gastronomy due to its wide variety of colors (ranging green, yellow, orange, red, and purple), shapes, and sizes and the absence of spicy flavor. In addition, these fruits have a characteristic flavor and nutritional attributes that include ascorbic acid, polyphenols, and carotenoids. A quality criterion for the harvest of this fruit is maturity; this attribute is visually determined by the consumer when verifying the color of the fruit’s pericarp. The present work proposes an artificial vision system that automatically describes ripeness levels of the bell pepper and compares the Fuzzy logic (FL) and Neuronal Networks for the classification stage. In this investigation, maturity stages of bell peppers were referenced by measuring total soluble solids (TSS), ° Brix, using refractometry. The proposed method was integrated in four stages. The first one consists in the image acquisition of five views using the Raspberry Pi 5 Megapixel camera. The second one is the segmentation of acquired image samples, where background and noise are removed from each image. The third phase is the segmentation of the regions of interest (green, yellow, orange and red) using the connect components algorithm to select areas. The last phase is the classification, which outputs the maturity stage. The classificatory was designed using Matlab’s Fuzzy Logic Toolbox and Deep Learning Toolbox. Its implementation was carried out onto Raspberry Pi platform. It tested the maturity classifier models using neural networks (RBF-ANN) and fuzzy logic models (ANFIS) with an accuracy of 100% and 88%, respectively. Finally, it was constructed with a content of ° Brix prediction model with small improvements regarding the state of art.
Low Temperature Decomposition of Polystyrene
Authors: Kimukai Hideki , Kodera Yoichi , Koizumi Koushirou , Okada Masaki , Yamada Kazunori , Hiaki Toshihiko , Saido Katsuhiko
Published: July 2020

Styrene oligomers (SOs), of styrene (styrene monomer, SM), 1,3-diphenylpropane (styrene dimer, SD1), 2,4-diphenyl-1-butene (styrene dimer, SD2) and 2,4,6-triphenyl-1-hexene (styrene trimer, ST), had been detected in the natural environments far from industrial area. To confirm SOs formation through thermal decomposition of polystyrene (PS) wastes in the nature, purified polystyrene (SO-free PS) has been shown to decompose at 30 to 150 °C. The SO ratio of SM:SD:ST was about 1:1:5 with ST as the main product. Mass spectrometry with selected ion monitoring was used for the quantitative analysis of the trace amounts of SOs. The rate of PS decomposition was obtained as k(year−1)=5.177 exp(−5029/T(K)) based on the amount of ST. Decomposition kinetics indicated that not only does drifting lump PS break up into micro/nano pieces in the ocean, but that it also subsequently undergoes degradation into basic structure units SO. According to the simulation at 30 °C, the amounts of SOs in the ocean will be over 400 MT in 2050.
Optimized Scheme for Accelerating the Slagging Reaction and Slag–Metal–Gas Emulsification in a Basic Oxygen Furnace
Authors: Yin Zichao , Lu Jianfei , Li Lin , Wang Tong , Wang Ronghui , Fan Xinghua , Lin Houkai , Huang Yuanshun , Tan Dapeng
Published: July 2020

Basic oxygen furnace (BOF) steelmaking is widely used in the metallurgy field. The slagging reaction is a necessary process that oxidizes C, Mn, Si, P, S, and other impurities and therefore directly affects the quality of the resultant steel. Relevant research has suggested that intensifying the stirring effect can accelerate the slagging reaction and that the dynamic characteristics of the top blow are the key factor in exploring the related complex physical and chemical phenomena. To address the issue, the standard k-ω turbulence model and level-set method were adopted in the present work and a fluid dynamics model was developed for a BOF. Accordingly, the slag–metal–gas emulsion interaction and stirring effect were investigated, and the interference mechanism of a multi-nozzle supersonic coherent jet was revealed. Finally, a self-adjustment method based on fuzzy control is proposed for the oxygen lance. The results indicate that the transfer efficiency of jet kinetic energy at the gas–liquid interface is the critical factor for the slagging reaction and that multi-nozzle oxygen lances with a certain twisted angle have important advantages with respect to stirring effects and splashing inhibition. The fuzzy control method predicts that the optimal nozzle twist angle is within the range of 7.2° to 7.8°. The results presented herein can provide theoretical support and beneficial reference information for BOF steelmaking.
Linear Vibration Analysis of Shells Using a Seven-Parameter Spectral/hp Finite Element Model
Authors: Valencia Murillo Carlos , Gutierrez Rivera Miguel , Reddy Junuthula N.
Published: July 2020

In this paper, a seven-parameter spectral/hp finite element model to obtain natural frequencies in shell type structures is presented. This model accounts for constant and variable thickness of shell structures. The finite element model is based on a Higher-order Shear Deformation Theory, and the equations of motion are obtained by means of Hamilton’s principle. Analysis is performed for isotropic linear elastic shells. A validation of the formulation is made by comparing the present results with those reported in the literature and with simulations in the commercial code ANSYS. Finally, results for shell like structures with variable thickness are presented, and their behavior for different ratios r/h and L/r is studied.
Evaluation of a Balloon-Type Vaginal Endoscope Based on Three-Dimensional Printing Technology for Self-Assessment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Jun Myoungjae , Jeong Hieyong , Endo Masayuki , Kodama Michiko , Ohno Yuko
Published: July 2020

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) can occur if the support tissues or the pelvic floor muscles are weakened and damaged. There is increased probability for POP occurrence after childbirth, menopause, or in overweight women. Because the natural history and progression of POP is still unknown, the approaches used to prevent it have not been clear. POP is an uncomfortable condition that affects one every three women. However, most people feel uncomfortable to discuss it. Herein, we conducted a feasibility evaluation study for self-assessment approaches with a vaginal endoscope based on three-dimensional (3D) printing. The proposed endoscope has two parts: (a) rubber material used to cover it for its intended insertion, to avoid direct contact with the walls of the vagina, and (b) two types of sensors at the tip for measurements. The condition inside the vagina was observed with a camera and depth sensors based on the regulation of the amount of air. Arbitrary temporary prolapses from the testbed’s generator enabled us to perceive the location of the problem and symptoms that were regarded as the early stage. As discussed, the low-cost design of the 3D-printed-based vaginal endoscope provides a self-check capability and allows continuous observations that help prevent POP.
From Mouse to Human: Comparative Analysis between Grey and White Matter by Synchrotron-Fourier Transformed Infrared Microspectroscopy
Authors: Sanchez-Molina Paula , Kreuzer Martin , Benseny-Cases Núria , Valente Tony , Almolda Beatriz , González Berta , Castellano Bernardo , Perálvarez-Marín Alex
Published: July 2020

Fourier Transform Infrared microspectroscopy (μFTIR) is a very useful method to analyze the biochemical properties of biological samples in situ. Many diseases affecting the central nervous system (CNS) have been studied using this method, to elucidate alterations in lipid oxidation or protein aggregation, among others. In this work, we describe in detail the characteristics between grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) areas of the human brain by μFTIR, and we compare them with the mouse brain (strain C57BL/6), the most used animal model in neurological disorders. Our results show a clear different infrared profile between brain areas in the lipid region of both species. After applying a second derivative in the data, we established a 1.5 threshold value for the lipid/protein ratio to discriminate between GM and WM areas in non-pathological conditions. Furthermore, we demonstrated intrinsic differences of lipids and proteins by cerebral area. Lipids from GM present higher C=CH, C=O and CH3 functional groups compared to WM in humans and mice. Regarding proteins, GM present lower Amide II amounts and higher intramolecular β-sheet structure amounts with respect to WM in both species. However, the presence of intermolecular β-sheet structures, which is related to β-aggregation, was only observed in the GM of some human individuals. The present study defines the relevant biochemical properties of non-pathological human and mouse brains by μFTIR as a benchmark for future studies involving CNS pathological samples.
Fatty Acid Biosynthesis in Chromerids
Authors: Tomčala Aleš , Michálek Jan , Schneedorferová Ivana , Füssy Zoltán , Gruber Ansgar , Vancová Marie , Oborník Miroslav
Published: July 2020

Fatty acids are essential components of biological membranes, important for the maintenance of cellular structures, especially in organisms with complex life cycles like protozoan parasites. Apicomplexans are obligate parasites responsible for various deadly diseases of humans and livestock. We analyzed the fatty acids produced by the closest phototrophic relatives of parasitic apicomplexans, the chromerids Chromera velia and Vitrella brassicaformis, and investigated the genes coding for enzymes involved in fatty acids biosynthesis in chromerids, in comparison to their parasitic relatives. Based on evidence from genomic and metabolomic data, we propose a model of fatty acid synthesis in chromerids: the plastid-localized FAS-II pathway is responsible for the de novo synthesis of fatty acids reaching the maximum length of 18 carbon units. Short saturated fatty acids (C14:0–C18:0) originate from the plastid are then elongated and desaturated in the cytosol and the endoplasmic reticulum. We identified giant FAS I-like multi-modular enzymes in both chromerids, which seem to be involved in polyketide synthesis and fatty acid elongation. This full-scale description of the biosynthesis of fatty acids and their derivatives provides important insights into the reductive evolutionary transition of a phototropic algal ancestor to obligate parasites.
The Effect of Resveratrol on Mitochondrial Function in Myoblasts of Patients with the Common m.3243A>G Mutation
Authors: Motlagh Scholle Leila , Schieffers Helena , Al-Robaiy Samiya , Thaele Annemarie , Dehghani Faramarz , Lehmann Urban Diana , Zierz Stephan
Published: July 2020

Mitochondrial function is essential for ATP-supply, especially in response to different cellular stressors. Increased mitochondrial biogenesis resulting from caloric restriction (CR) has been reported. Resveratrol (RSV) is believed to mimic the physiological effects of CR mainly via a sirtuin (SIRT) 1-dependent pathway. The effect of RSV on the physiological function of mitochondrial respiratory complexes was evaluated using a Seahorse XF96. Myoblasts of five patients harboring the m.3243A>G mutation and five controls were analyzed. The relative expression of several genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis was evaluated for a better understanding of the coherent mechanisms. Additionally, media-dependent effects of nutritional compounds and hormonal restrictions (R) on myoblasts from patients and controls in the presence or absence of RSV were investigated. Culturing of myoblasts under these conditions led to an upregulation of almost all the investigated genes compared to normal nutrition. Under normal conditions, there was no positive effect of RSV on mitochondrial respiration in patients and controls. However, under restricted conditions, the respiratory factors measured by Seahorse were improved in the presence of RSV. Further studies are necessary to clarify the involved mechanisms and elucidate the controversial effects of resveratrol on SIRT1 and SIRT3 expression.