bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial Performance of Islamic and Conventional Banks in Malaysia: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Sulub Yasin Ahmed , Mohd Salleh Marhanum Che
Published: December 2019

This paper analyses the financial performance of Islamic (IB) and conventional banks (CB) in Malaysia comparatively, within the scope of a dual setting arrangement in the Malaysian financial industry. Performance evaluation of both types of banks relies on ratio analyses which include Return on Equity (ROE), Return on Assets (ROA), Earnings per Share (EPS) and Debt Ratio. Data for this study covers four full-fledged IBs and four CBs in the period between 2012 and 2016. Based on statistical analysis (t-test and correlation analysis), the average of ROE was 6% for IBs and 14% for CBs. Results of t-test reveals that this higher performance of CBs is significant (t-test=1.957, p-value= 0.029). Furthermore, both ROA and EPS were significantly different between the two groups at p-value less than 1%. These results indicate that the Malaysian CBs performed better than IBs, at least for the banks included in this study. In terms of debt ratio, (the percentage of liabilities to total assets), IBs carry more debts than CBs. The risk of this higher debt is that the bank may be at risk of bankruptcy and may not be able to pay its obligations on time. The difference between the average debt of the two groups is significant at less than 5% (t-test= -2.251, p-value= 0.015). Therefore, not only is IBs’ performance inferior to CBs but their debt ratio is also higher. This research has implications for IBs; they should further improve their performance to become more competitive in the current environment for the financial industry. More importantly, IBs need to uphold Islamic ethics throughout their business operations to ensure that both the stated principles and subsequent objectives are achieved.
Islamic Contracts for Home Financing: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Yustiardhi Aulia Fitria , Aulia Mahdiah , Permatasari Reni Oktavia
Published: December 2019

Home financing is widely needed by many people across different countries. Through the years, Islamic banks have developed several models for home financing to address the growing demand from customers. Two products that Islamic banks use extensively are Murabahah and Bay Bithaman Ajil (BBA) which in practice have similar characteristics to their conventional counterparts, which leads to criticism from Islamic scholars. Alternative Islamic home financing schemes that have been introduced to the market in recent years include Musharakah Mutanaqisah (MM), Ijarah Muntahiya Bit Tamlik (IMBT) and Istisna. These three financial products have different features that could overcome the weaknesses of Murabahah and Bay Bithaman Ajil. However, these three financial contracts are not without limitations. This paper provides a theoretical overview of these contracts. Further studies should discuss more practical issues that could promote the use of these contracts.
Towards Developing a Conceptual Framework for Islamic Unit Trust Funds
Authors: Abdul Aziz Ruqayyah , Hassan Rusni , Mohd Zain Nor Razinah , Salman Syed Ahmed
Published: December 2019

There is increasing interest among investors in one of the latest investment vehicles - unit trusts. Unit trusts have several advantages as investments in comparison to other investment vehicles, as they are managed by fund managers and tied down by a trust deed. These advantages can be traced back to the investment diversification, professional management of the unit trust and the liquidity flow that can be obtained through sale and purchase of the unit trust. This paper presents an argument towards the development of the conceptual framework for Islamic unit trust funds, explored using references to the regulations in Malaysia, reviewing the types of unit trust funds, their distinctive features, Shariah principles that operate in the management of unit trust industry in Malaysia and the contributions that can be generated from unit trust fund to society. Some of the essential features of Islamic unit trust funds depend on the prohibition of riba, gharar and maysir, strict stock screening processes and purification processes. The main challenges to the unit trust industry are also discussed.
Feed adjustment when milling curved surfaces
Authors: Matasova E.Y. , Vinogradov D.V.
Published: December 2019

Recently, there has been a trend to perform most manufacturing operations on one machine-tool. Such technology requires machining various internal and external cylindrical surfaces using not turning but milling machines. However, the role of feed in milling curved surfaces is not sufficiently studied in the scientific literature. The developed calculation method makes it possible to study the influence of milling parameters for curved surfaces on the maximum thickness of the cut layer. It is established that when milling convex surfaces, the maximum thickness of the cut layer decreases relative to that for plane milling, while for concave surfaces it increases. Equations are obtained for calculating feed per tooth for the cut layer thickness when milling curved surfaces. It is shown that the feed calculated for milling flat surfaces cannot be used for curved surfaces and, therefore, should be adjusted. The relative radius of curvature and the relative thickness of milling have an impact on the feed adjustment. The smaller these values, the larger the value of the feed adjustment should be. The range of values that requires feed re-calculation relative to the feed for flat milling is determined.
The Effect of the Material and the Geometric Shape of the Waveguides on the Process of Ultrasonic Welding of Plastics
Authors: Volkov S.S. , Nerovnyy V.M. , Bigus G.A.
Published: December 2019

This article briefly describes basic elements of machines for ultrasonic welding of plastics and the main materials used for manufacturing elements of ultrasonic waveguide oscillatory systems. A relationship between the amplitude of fluctuations of the welded material and a ratio of wave resistance of the product material and the waveguide tool geometry is examined. It is shown that when welding plastic products of a large thickness, it is practical to use waveguides made from aluminum alloys with a working end face with a diameter of 15 mm. It is established that the closer the acoustic characteristics of the waveguide material and the plastic are, the fuller the transfer of ultrasonic energy is when transiting through the interface of the welded polymeric materials. To assess the distribution of amplitudes of fluctuations in the welded material it is more convenient to use a transmission ratio, which decreases with a decrease in the wave resistance. It is established that the sizes of the working end face of the waveguide are most often defined by the properties, dimensions and geometry of the welded product. The application of the developed recommendations to the choice of material and sizes of the working end face of the waveguide can increase technological reliability of the ultrasonic welding process and improve quality of products.
Methods for Determinning Critical Values of Nonconservative Loads in Problems of Stability of Mechanical Systems
Authors: Radin V.P. , Chirkov V.P. , Shchugorev A.V. , Shchugorev V.N.
Published: December 2019

Methods for determining critical values of nonconservative loads in stability problems of mechanical systems with distributed parameters are considered in this work. Based on a dynamic approach to stability problems, the method of direct integration of the linearized equation of perturbed motion is proposed, and the problem of determining critical loads is reduced to the problem of minimizing a complex function of several variables. As a second method, the method of decomposition of the solution of the equation of perturbed motion in the forms of natural oscillations is presented. The fundamentals of the application of the finite element method to the problems of stability under the action of non-conservative loads are also described. The methods are illustrated on classical problems: the stability of the cantilever rod under the action of potential and tracking forces and the stability of the pipeline section with flowing liquid. The accuracy and convergence of the latter two methods are analyzed depending on the number of members in the series and the number of finite elements.
Increasing the Overlap Factor in the Elastic Model of a Modified Gear
Authors: Timofeev B.P. , Dang N.T.
Published: December 2019

Coupled and approximate gears are considered in this article. Methods of localization of the contact patch and the elimination of edge impact are analyzed. Based on the solution of the Hertz problem, mathematical models of gearing in the MathCAD program are constructed, with the help of which the overlap ratio of the gearing is calculated taking into account contact deformations. Circular and parabolic modifications for cylindrical spur gears are proposed. The allowed values of the modification parameters are determined. Contact stresses are equal to the allowable stresses when calculating multi-cycle fatigue. The influence of contact deformation on the load capacity of non-conjugate gears is analyzed.
Selecting the Dimensions of the Vaneless Diffuser of a Centrifugal Compressor Stage at the Primary Design Phase
Authors: Galerkin Y.B. , Rekstin A.F. , Solovyeva O.A.
Published: December 2019

The advances in the primary design method of centrifugal compressors of the Universal Modeling Method have led to the need to analyze and revise the recommendations for the optimal size and configuration selection of vaneless diffusers of centrifugal compressor stages. The results of CFD calculations of a family of vaneless diffusers with different relative width, radial length, velocity coefficients and flow angles at the inlet are used to develop new recommendations. The choice of the optimal width of the vaneless diffuser is based on ensuring a non-separable flow in it at the boundary of the surge. The optimal value of the relative radial length of the diffuser is in the range of 1.65–2.0. Considering the above, a formula for selecting the vaneless diffuser outer diameter is proposed depending on the design flow rate coefficient. The developed primary design method of vaneless diffusers is included in the software programs of the Universal Modeling Method and is used in design and research practice.
Theoretical Estimation of Thermal Deformations of Non-Lubricated Bearings of Low-Flow Turbocharger Units
Authors: Raykovskiy N.A. , Yusha V.L. , Tretyakov A.V. , Zakharov V.A.
Published: December 2019

When designing turbocharger units (microturbines) working with high-temperature flows, it is possible to completely abandon lubrication system and use self-lubricating bearings instead. At the same time, it is important to ensure the required temperature regimes and permissible temperature deformations. Currently, there are no calculation methods that could be used to determine the temperature fields and temperature deformations of the ‘rotor — self-lubrication bearings’ system. The paper proposes a numerical method for calculating bearing assemblies, which takes into account the mutual influence of the operating modes of the turbine unit and the bearing cooling system. The proposed method is tested, and the results of the analysis of temperatures and temperature deformations are presented.
Modeling of Characteristics of Water-Ring Vacuum Pumps
Authors: Velikanov N.L. , Naumov V.A.
Published: December 2019

Physical and mathematical modeling of characteristics of water-ring vacuum pumps has a number of specific features. Isothermal efficiency, i.e. the ratio of the isothermal gas compression power to the pump power consumed is used as an efficiency indicator. The article describes the existing methods of hydraulic calculation of pumping units. An analysis of physical models, numerical values of empirical coefficients is carried out. An improved algorithm for calculating water-ring vacuum pumps of different manufacturers in the framework of previously developed models is presented. The calculations of compressors manufactured by ZAO Beskom (VVN-3, VVN1-6, VVN1-12) and ERSTVAK (ELRS-45, ELRS-57) are considered as examples. The results of tests of vacuum pumps published by the manufacturers in the open press are used as the initial data for the calculations. The experimental dependences of the performance, power expended, isothermal efficiency of water-ring vacuum pumps on the suction pressure are presented. The results obtained make it possible to improve the accuracy and reliability of predicting the amount of displaced liquid or steam during the operation of the pumping unit.
An Experimental Study of a Crossheadless Piston Hybrid Power Positive Displacement Machine with Intensive Cooling of the Compressed Gas
Authors: Shcherba V.E. , Nosov E.Y.  , Tegzhanov A.S. , Paramonov A.M. , Blinov V.N. , Surikov V.I.
Published: December 2019

Piston hybrid power machines combining the functions of a compressor and a pump in one unit have become widespread, with a new class of machines that do not have a crosshead currently under development. A prototype of such a machine was designed and manufactured based on the new concept of a crossheadless piston hybrid power machine. A plan for conducting a series of experimental studies was developed. The experimental studies confirmed the feasibility of the prototype in the entire range of independent operating parameters (discharge pressure in the compressor section, discharge pressure in the pump section, the number of revolutions of the crankshaft). The effect of operating parameters on the instantaneous and integral characteristics of the compressor and the pump sections of the crossheadless piston hybrid power machine was also assessed through the experimental studies.
Design and Technology of Winding Curvilinear Pipelines from Sintered Polyimide-Fluoroplastic Film
Authors: Komkov M.A. , Badanina Y.V.
Published: December 2019

This article deals with the issues related to designing and manufacturing light and reliable pipelines made of composite materials for missile technology, aircraft and land vehicles running on cryogenic fuel. Multi-layer straight and curvilinear pipelines made by winding polyimide films can significantly reduce the weight and level of bending loads. The article presents the geometry of a typical element of a curvilinear pipeline and the design of the flange of a cryogenic pipeline. A method for connecting the flange shank to the film shell is proposed and the results of testing pipelines made of polyimide-fluoroplastic films are presented. Cryogenic pipelines made of polyimide film PMF-352 have a smaller mass in comparison with metal analogues made of alloy AMg-6 and can be recommended as their replacement in pneumatic hydraulic systems of products operating on cryogenic fuels.
Methodology for Determining the Survivability and Resistance of Aircraft Propellers to the Impact of Foreign Objects
Authors: Neskoromnyy Е.V. , Markov D.S.
Published: December 2019

The authors propose a technique for determining the survivability and resistance of the blades to impact by foreign objects located on the surface of the airfield pavement, using a set of mathematical models and experimental plants and considering the data on the layout and design of the aircraft and its propulsion system with a propeller. An example of the technique’s application to a small-sized aircraft with a propulsion system with a pushing propeller is considered. The results of theoretical studies on determining the boundaries and parameters of the impact of foreign objects with the propeller are presented. Based on the data obtained, experimental studies are conducted to determine damage to the blades made of composite materials by granite particles. The limiting value of the relative mass of a granite particle, which ensures the operability of the propeller during and after the impact is determined. Recommendations on increasing the impact resistance of the blades are given.
Descriptive Observations of Tool Functionality and Application for Assessing Digital Reading Program Quality
Authors: Roskos Kathleen , Northrop Laura , Brueck Jeremy , Lenhart Lisa , Evans Michelle
Published: December 2019

Access to books for students' independent reading practice is undergoing a profound shift from print to digital books in cloud-based digital reading programs. Tools for assessing the qualities of these programs as curriculum products are limited. This study describes a set of analytical tools for reviewing digital reading program software and investigates the learning management system (LMS) qualities of six commercial digital reading programs using these tools. Results examine tool functionality qualitatively and describe the product qualities of programs at platform, dashboard, digital book, and screen page levels. Descriptive observations highlight the need for cross-disciplinary and collaborative research work to improve analytical tool design. Overall product quality of the programs was in the average range.
Embodiment in Virtual Environments: The Role of Working Memory in Experiencing Presence as Revealed via Eye Tracking
Authors: Lu Shulan , Rawlinson Terry G. , Harter Derek
Published: December 2019

Working memory capacity (WMC) is critical in maintaining goal-directed behavior and in inhibiting task irrelevant or conflicting thoughts. Using eye tracking data, the current study developed measures to investigate users' experiences of presence. We investigated the cognitive processing mechanisms of feelings of presence by examining how users of varying WMC coordinate their attention between their actions in using external controllers for computer mediated environments, and the actions produced by their avatars in virtual environments. To rule out the possibility of participants acting out of social pressure, a well-practiced everyday task with minimal social component was used. Participants performed vegetable cutting tasks in a desktop virtual environment by controlling an avatar's arm, with no pressure (Experiment 1) versus while pressured to improve the evenness of their cuts (Experiment 2). The results showed that high WMC participants experienced higher degrees of presence, as indicated by the attention allocated to the avatar's hand and to task planning. Under performance pressure, low WMC participants became more immersed in the tasks. The mechanisms of adaptive and personalized presence in virtual world simulation training environments are discussed in light of our findings on the effects of pressure and individual differences of WMC in experiencing presence.
iPads for Teaching Graphic Symbols to People With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Hetzroni Orit E. , Israel Einav
Published: December 2019

Individuals with low functioning autism spectrum disorders (LFASD) who demonstrate significant cognitive and communication needs benefit from using technology for learning graphic symbols for enhancing participation. This study investigated if an iPad application would increase identification of graphic symbols by children and adults with LFASD. Adults and children with LFASD used an application to learn 15 graphic symbols. Participants were able to focus for the duration of the activity and use the educational software for learning graphic symbols. By the end to the study, 50% of the participants in both groups recognized the meaning of more symbols after intervention. iPad use enabled control of the stimulus by reducing communication barriers, which increased participants' ability to learn symbols. Even participants with little ability to focus were able to complete the whole activity. Technology enabled learning of most of the symbols though the specially created application.
Uso de fotogrametria digital na elaboração de modelos tridimensionais com aplicação em geoconservação e educação
Authors: Silva Matheus Lisboa Nobre da , Nascimento Marcos Antonio Leite do , Mansur Kátia Leite , Medeiros Getson Luís Dantas de
Published: December 2019

O uso de novas tecnologias pode ser uma ferramenta lúdica bastante útil em ações educativas nas geociências, colaborando também com a geoconservação de locais que se configurem como patrimônio geológico. Neste sentido, este trabalho utiliza a fotogrametria digital, um método simples e barato de geração de objetos tridimensionais, para obter um modelo digital de um geossítio na área do Projeto Geoparque Seridó. Foram utilizadas 229 fotografias obtidas com uma câmera Nikon P520, além de imagens aéreas do Geossítio Morro do Cruzeiro, capturadas com o uso de drone Phantom 3 Profissional. Os arquivos digitais foram processados no software Agisoft PhotoScan 1.4.1, que utiliza pontos de semelhança entre as fotografias para fazer o posicionamento das imagens e gerar, a partir delas, um modelo em três dimensões que foi, posteriormente, impresso em impressora 3D. Tal modelo possui diversas possibilidades de aplicação em sala de aula ou em ações de conservação da natureza, como subsídio para educação ambiental.
The Effectiveness of SETS based-learning in Improving Students’ Higher-Order Thinking Skills
Authors: Hasanah Aulia Firdauzi , Raharjo Raharjo , Rachmadiarti Fida
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate a SETS (Science, environment, technology) based-learning approach for junior high school students on how well SETS based-learning improves thinking skill on the waste management. This study was conducted to 20 students of 7th grade. Data collection were employed by class observation (carried out pre and post test), essay analysis (based on several cognitive indicators such as analyze, evaluate, and create), and learning activities regarding environmental issues. The results showed that SETS based-learning could positively improve students critical thinking in terms of learning process and performance in creativity, motivation, critical thinking. If the number of subjects is increase, SETS based-learning strategy could be more challenging.
Acolhimento Coletivo como Espaço de Cuidado: Uma Análise das Demandas em Saúde Mental na Adolescência
Authors: Fossi Luciana Barcellos , Reinheimer Fernanda Koch
Published: December 2019

Este artigo se caracteriza por um estudo crítico que aborda a experiência da modalidade de acolhimento estabelecida por um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS) como ferramenta para o cuidado e a promoção da saúde mental de adolescentes. O material utilizado para sustentar este estudo foi o registro escrito de acolhimentos da demanda relatada por pais de adolescentes que buscaram o serviço em questão, no período de outubro de 2014 a fevereiro de 2015. Para analisar e problematizar os resultados provenientes desses registros, apresentaremos uma discussão teórica acerca da adolescência, da Clínica Ampliada e da Redução de Danos. A partir da análise desse espaço enquanto ferramenta, conclui-se que o acolhimento nessa modalidade tem se mostrado eficaz e em consonância com a perspectiva proposta pelo Ministério da Saúde para os Centros de Atenção Psicossocial.
Dor Crônica sob a Ótica Comportamental: Compreensão e Possibilidades de Intervenção
Authors: Lopes Cristiane Rodrigues , Ferrari Vanessa , Jorge Cynthia Carvalho
Published: December 2019

A média da população brasileira que se queixa ou sofre de dor crônica é ampla e tem-se caracterizado em um grande desafio para as ciências da saúde. Portanto o objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar uma análise conceitual a respeito da compreensão da dor crônica sob a perspectiva comportamental, abordando técnicas de intervenção psicológicas utilizadas para o manejo da dor. Para tanto, foi realizada uma busca na literatura por meio de artigos e livros, que relatam a aplicabilidade das teorias comportamentais no tratamento da dor crônica e alguns estudos científicos que corroboram a eficácia dessa teoria para o manejo da dor. A partir da literatura encontrada, conclui-se que as teorias comportamentais contribuem para o entendimento e tratamento da dor crônica, tendo em vista que contingências ambientais podem ter um papel de destaque no início, na gravidade e na manutenção da dor. Acredita-se, portanto, que esses achados possam ser de grande valia para os profissionais contribuindo com melhores práticas no âmbito da saúde.
Autocuidado e Adoecimento dos Homens: Uma Revisão Integrativa Nacional
Authors: Garcia Luis Henrique Costa , Cardoso Nicolas de Oliveira , Bernardi Claudia Maria Canestrine do Nascimento
Published: December 2019

A Política Nacional de Atenção Integral à Saúde do Homem (PNAISH) visa promover a prevenção de saúde do homem. Contudo estudos recentes apontam para a necessidade de maior diálogo relacionado aos sentimentos dos homens frente ao adoecimento e à cultura social e laboral. Dessa forma, essa revisão integrativa objetiva verificar os fatores culturais, emocionais e laborais relacionados ao processo de adoecimento e autocuidado dos homens. As buscas por artigos empíricos foram conduzidas nas bases de dados, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), SciELO e PePSIC. Ao término das etapas de seleção, nove estudos foram incluídos para análise nos resultados desta revisão. Os principais resultados sugerem que os homens sentem medo e vergonha de suas vulnerabilidades e do adoecimento. Também percebem uma imposição de papéis patriarcais pela sociedade, considerando o autocuidado como um atributo feminino. Observou-se ainda tendência à priorização do trabalho mesmo que isso implique o deterioramento da saúde.
KEANEKARAGAMAN FAMILIA POACEAE DI KAWASAN RAWA DESA SUNGAI LUMBAH, KABUPATEN BARITO KUALA
Authors: Arisandi Riza , Soendjoto Mochamad Arief , Dharmono Dharmono
Published: December 2019

Grass can be said to be one of the most successful land plants and is found in all types of growing sites and a variety of circumstances. The Poaceae family is the fourth largest family of flowering plants in the world and there are around 11,000 species with 800 genera. A large diversity of species characterizes a stable community. The term swamp is generally closely related to the conditions of standing water, tidal overflows, floods, and mud. This study aims to identify and find out the diversity index (H') of the Poaceae family in the swamp area of Sungai Lumbah village, Barito Kuala district. The steps of this research are determining the location of the study, observing and identifying species, counting the number of clumps per species at each sample point, tabulating data to obtain the diversity index (H '), measuring environmental parameters. Based on observations, 14 species of the Poaceae family were found, namely Bambusa sp., Brachiaria mutica, Digitaria longiflora, Eleusine indica, Eragrostis unioloides, Imperata cylindrica, Ischaemum muticum, Oryza sativa, Panicum paludosum, Panicum repens, Paspalum commersonii, Paspalum conjugatum, Phragmites vallatoria, and Saccharum officinarum. The Poaceae family diversity index in the swampy area of Sungai Lumbah village is moderate (H' = 2.49).
KEMAMPUAN ADAPTASI MASYARAKAT TRANSMIGRAN JAWA DI LAHAN GAMBUT DESA JEJANGKIT TIMUR KECAMATAN JEJANGKIT KABUPATEN BARITO KUALA
Authors: Syarifuddin Syarifuddin , Arisanty Deasy , Putro Herry Porda Nugroho , Anis M. Zainal Arifin
Published: December 2019

The research aims to examine the adaptation ability of the Transmigrant community in terms of the natural/physical environment and the ability of the transmigrant community in terms of social culture. This research uses quantitative research methods. Data collection techniques using interviews, observations and documentation. Data analysis uses qualitative data, data reduction, data presentation, and data verification. The results showed that the Transmigrant Society of Java strives to adapt to the new environment and try to find other businesses such as building work, truck drivers, officers, and others with side business expectations. It can help to increase family economic income, in the process of community peatland tends to garden palm, rubber, and oranges and some are farmed. Adaptation in terms of the cultural environment, the Javanese transmigration Society has no difficulty proved by the cooperation of community in marriage, religious and other cultures.
EVALUASI PENGELOLAAN LAHAN TERDEGRADASI TERHADAP SIFAT FISIKA TANAH PADA LAHAN REVEGETASI PASCATAMBANG BATUBARA
Authors: Noor Ihsan , Udiansyah Udiansyah , Priatmadi Bambang Joko , Winarni Emmi
Published: December 2019

One of the biggest challenges in coal mining activities is the successful management of degraded land through post-mining revegetation activities in accordance with applicable regulations. An easy way to assess the success of revegetation can be done with the approach of the physical properties of the soil. This study aims to evaluate post-mining revegetation land management by analyzing soil physical properties in the form of permeability and bulk density associated with plant growth. The research method was carried out by taking a predetermined sample in the plot area with a size of 20 x 20 m in each revegetation land planted with three depths are 0-20 cm, 20-40 cm, and 40-60 cm. The results showed that the success of revegetation land showed a positive increase where the growth of Acacia mangium plant height had reached 56.5% and the growth of the stem diameter of the plants had reached 53.8% when compared with the same plant type on the original revegetation land (HTI) according with the physical properties of the soil in the form of permeability which shows an increase and bulk density which shows a decrease approaching the value of the HTI land conditions. Thus, the success of post-mining land revegetation can be determined by the physical properties of the soil that affect the growth of the plant.
The Associations between Imageability of Positive and Negative Valence Words and Fear Reactivity
Authors: Ragunath Bindiya Lakshmi , Mulatti Claudio , Neoh Michelle Jin-Yee , Bornstein Marc H. , Esposito Gianluca
Published: December 2019

This study investigated the associations of imageability with fear reactivity. Imageability ratings of four word classes: positive and negative (i) emotional and (ii) propriosensitive, neutral and negative (iii) theoretical and (iv) neutral concrete filler, and fear reactivity scores – degree of fearfulness towards different situations (TF score) and total number of extreme fears and phobias (EF score), were obtained from 171 participants. Correlations between imageability, TF and EF scores were tested to analyze how word categories and their valence were associated with fear reactivity. Imageability ratings were submitted to recursive partitioning. Participants with high TF and EF scores had higher imageability for negative emotional and negative theoretical words. The correlations between imageability of negative emotional words and negative theoretical words for EF score were significant. Males showed stronger correlations for imageability of negative emotional words for EF and TF scores. High imageability for positive emotional words was associated with lower fear reactivity in females. These findings were discussed with regard to negative attentional bias theory of anxiety, influence on emotional systems, and gender-specific coping styles. This study provides insight into cognitive functions involved in mental imagery, semantic competence for mental imagery in relation to fear reactivity, and a potential psycholinguistic instrument assessing fear tendency.
Application of Statistical Mirroring in Biological Sequence Analysis
Authors: Abdullahi Kabir Bindawa
Published: December 2019

Sequence alignment and comparison through pairwise, multiple, global and local techniques are the main principles that underpin comparative genomics. However, most of the algorithms used are alignment-based which imposed some limitations on their use and application. In an attempt to provide an alignment-free alternative approaches, a methodology of comparative optinalysis and statistical mirroring was used and adopted to provide a suitable alternative for multiple genomic sequence comparison. In this article, methods comparison with MUSCLE, MUFFT, Clustal Omega, and T-Coffee was designed to assess the suitability and statistical power of statistical mirroring as an alternative method for multiple genomic sequences comparison using different sets of logically generated biological sequence datasets with different problems and computational complications. The results of the comparisons validate that statistical mirroring is a suitable alignment-free alternative approach for multiple genomic sequence comparison. The applied method (statistical mirroring) distinguishes itself over MUSCLE, MUFFT, Clustal Omega, and T-Coffee in specificity to a position-specific changes, specificity to a base-specific changes, cladogram and phylogenetic linearity, alignment independency, computational simplicity, and limit of input capacity.
Three-Dimensional Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Epiphyseal Cartilage Vascularity Using Vessel Image Features
Authors: Ellermann Jutta M. , Ludwig Kai D. , Nissi Mikko J. , Johnson Casey P. , Strupp John P. , Wang Luning , Zbýň Štefan , Tóth Ferenc , Arendt Elizabeth , Tompkins Marc , Shea Kevin , Carlson Cathy S.
Published: December 2019

Background:

We introduce a quantitative measure of epiphyseal cartilage vascularity and examine vessel networks during human skeletal maturation. Understanding early morphological changes in the distal femoral condyle is expected to provide information on the pathogenesis of developmental diseases such as juvenile osteochondritis dissecans.

Methods:

Twenty-two cadaveric knees from donors ranging from 1 month to 10 years of age were included in the study. Images of bone, cartilage, and vascularity were acquired simultaneously with a 3-dimensional gradient-recalled-echo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequence. The secondary ossification center volume and total epiphysis cartilage volume ratio and articular-epiphyseal cartilage complex and epiphyseal cartilage widths were measured. Epiphyseal cartilage vascularity was visualized for 9 data sets with quantitative susceptibility mapping and vessel filtering, resulting in 3-dimensional data to inform vessel network segmentation and to calculate vascular density.

Results:

Three distinct, non-anastomosing vascular networks (2 peripheral and 1 central) supply the distal femoral epiphyseal cartilage. The central network begins regression as early as 3 months and is absent by 4 years. From 1 month to 3 years, the ratio of central to peripheral vascular area density decreased from 1.0 to 0.5, and the ratio of central to peripheral vascular skeletal density decreased from 0.9 to 0.6. A narrow, peripheral vascular rim was present at 8 years but had disappeared by 10 years. The secondary ossification center progressively acquires the shape of the articular-epiphyseal cartilage complex by 8 years of age, and the central areas of the medial and lateral femoral condyles are the last to ossify.

Conclusions:

Using cadaveric pediatric knees, we provide quantitative, 3-dimensional measures of epiphyseal cartilage vascular regression during skeletal development using vessel image features. Central areas with both early vascular regression and delayed ossification correspond to predilection sites of juvenile osteochondritis dissecans in this limited case series. Our findings highlight specific vascular vulnerabilities that may lead to improved understanding of the pathogenesis and better-informed clinical management decisions in developmental skeletal diseases.

Clinical Relevance:

This paradigm shift in understanding of juvenile osteochondritis dissecans etiology and disease progression may critically impact future patient management. Our findings highlight specific vascular vulnerabilities during skeletal maturation in a group of active young patients seen primarily by orthopaedic surgeons and sports medicine professionals.
Generalized Joint Hypermobility among School-going children in Majmaah region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Sirajudeen Mohamed Sherif , Waly Mohamed , Alqahtani Mazen , Alzhrani Msaad , Muthusamy Hariraja , Unnikrishnan Radhakrishnan , Saibannavar Rashmi , Alrubaia Wafa , Vaiyapuri Anandh , Nambi Gopal S
Published: December 2019

The authors have withdrawn this preprint from Research Square
Role of Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Lymph Node Status in Axillary Lymph Node Metastases in Breast Cancer undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Zhou Yizhen , Zhang Lei , Jin Zining , Yu Hailan , Ren Siyu , Wang Danyu , Liang Chunyan , Wu Guogang , Chen Bo
Published: December 2019

Background:Axillary ultrasound (AUS) is one of the important bases for evaluating the axillary status of breast cancer patients. And it would be helpful for the reassessment of axillary lymph node status in these patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy(NAC) and guide the selection of their axillary surgical options.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of ultrasound,and to find out the factors related to the outcome of ultrasound. Methods:In this retrospective analysis, 172 patients (one bilateral breast cancer) with breast cancer and clinical positive axillary nodes, were enrolled. After NAC, all patients received mastectomy and axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). AUS was used before and after NAC to assess the axilla status. Results:Of the 173 axillae, 137 (79.19%) had pathological metastasis after NAC. The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of axillary ultrasound in this cohort were 68.21%, 69.34%, 63.89%, 87.96% and 35.38% respectively. Univariate analysis showed that primary axillary lymph node(ALN) short axis, progesterone receptors, hormone receptors, the tumor status after NAC, tumor reduction rate, ALN short axis after NAC, physical examination of axilla after NAC and pN impacted the results of AUS(P = 0.000 ~ 0.040). Multivariate analysis of the above indicators showed that ALN short axis after NAC and pN associated with AUS results independently. Conclusion:AUS can accurately assess axilla status after NAC in most breast cancer patients. If the short axis of ALN≥10mm and AUS negative, SLNB could be chosen. However, AUS cannot detect residual lymph node disease after NAC in a short axis of the ALN <10mm.
Twin Deliveries: The Prevalence and Perinatal Outcomes in Public Hospitals in Dar es Salaam City, Tanzania
Authors: Benela Zavery , Chibwae Alfred , Jahanpour Ola , Matovelo Dismas
Published: December 2019

Background The perinatal mortality rates are five times higher in twin pregnancies than singleton pregnancies, therefore antenatal management and safe delivery of twin pregnancies are important issues in obstetrics. This study aimed at providing data on the proportion of twin deliveries in four public hospitals in Dar es Salaam and an insight on the fetal outcomes in relation to their modes of delivery.Methods This was a cross sectional study in which all women who delivered twin babies were interviewed and medical records on their delivery summary were obtained in the labour and post-natal wards in four public hospitals in Dar es Salaam between July and December 2011. Post-natal follow up was done on seventh day by contacting women by telephone to establish the neonatal status.Results There were 33,638 total deliveries of which 672 were twin deliveries making the prevalence of 2.0% (20 per 1,000 births). Of all twin deliveries analyzed (666 pairs), 373(56.0%) had the diagnosis of twin pregnancy made antenatally. Vaginal delivery was the major mode of delivery (77.3%). whereas combined delivery in which the first twin was delivered vaginally and the second twin by caesarian section accounted for only 2.6%. At birth 1252(94%) of twins were alive, 60(4.5%), were fresh stillbirths and 20(1.5%) were macerated stillbirths. Low Apgar score was more to first twins delivered vaginally compared to first twins (p-value=0.003). Low Apgar score (AS <7) was more amongst second twins delivered vaginally at 30 minutes or longer 27(48.2%) compared to twins delivered in less than 30 minutes 72(15.4%), (p-value=0.001).Conclusion There was a significant association between vaginal delivery and low Apgar score at one minute. Long duration of twin to twin delivery interval was associated with low Apgar score of the second twins delivered vaginally. Perinatal mortality rate was also higher in the second twins compared to the first twins. The time delivery interval of the second twin should be made as short as possible by active management of all second twins. Neonatal facilities are required in all hospitals conducting twin deliveries to care for premature babies.
Aβ25–35 induction of necroptosis through activation of the RIPK1/RIPK3 and RIPK1/ERK1/2 signaling pathways is attenuated with DHA treatment in THP-1 monocytes
Authors: Yuan Shiqi , Li Huan , Yang Canhong , Xie Wenyi , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhang Jiafa , Cai Zibo , Mao Zhenlin , Xie Weibing , Lü Tianming
Published: December 2019

Background: Monocytes play a crucial role in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) treatment has a neuroprotective effect for many neurodegenerative diseases. However, mechanisms that regulate monocyte and Aβ protein interaction in AD and the effects of DHA on monocytes in the context of AD are not fully understood. Methods: The experiments were designed to further explore possible mechanisms of interaction between monocytes and Aβ plaques. Another objective of this study was to investigate a potential mechanism for Aβ-mediated regulation of necroptosis and the MAPK and NF-kB signaling pathways, as well as how these pathways might be modulated by DHA in human THP-1 monocytes. We also investigated whether DHA indirectly suppressed THP-1 cell-mediated neuronal activation. We used cell viability and cytotoxicity assays, flow cytometry, transwell migration assays, and Western blotting to perform our study. Results: Our findings indicate that Aβ25-35 regulates two aspects of THP-1 cells necroptosis. We also observed that increased resistance to apoptosis in THP-1 cells that is correlated with THP-1 monocyte differentiation. Our results also indicated that DHA treatment restored migration of THP-1 monocytes that had been treated with Aβ25–35. Pre-treatment of THP-1 monocytes with DHA effectively inhibited Aβ-induced activation and markedly suppressed protein expression of TNF-α，IL-1β and IL-6. We also found that THP-1 cell necroptosis was induced by Aβ25–35 through modulation of RIPK1/RIPK3 and phosphorylation status of ERK1/2 and could be attenuated by DHA treatment. Conclusion: Aβ25–35-mediated induction of necroptosis through activation of the RIPK1/RIPK3 and RIPK1/ ERK1/2 signaling pathways in THP-1 monocytes can be attenuated by DHA treatment, indicating that DHA treatment could be a promising new therapy for AD management.
Qiang Xin 1 Formula Suppresses Excessive Pro-inflammatory Cytokine Responses and Microglia Activation to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Emotional Dysfunctions in Experimental Sepsis
Authors: Wang Xuerui , Xu Xiaolong , Guo Yuhong , Huang Po , Ha Yanxiang , Zhang Rui , Bai Yunjing , Cui Xuran , He Shasha , Liu Qingquan
Published: December 2019

Background: Sepsis commonly leads to acute and long-term cognitive and affective impairments which are associated with increased mortality in patients. Neuroinflammation characterized by excessive cytokine release and immune cell activation underlies the behavioral changes associated with sepsis. We previously reported that the administration of a traditional Chinese herbal Qiang Xin 1 (QX1) formula improves survival in septic mice. This study was performed to better understand the effects and the mechanisms of QX1 formula treatment on behavioral changes in septic model. Methods: A preclinical septic model was induced by cecal ligation and puncture in mice. QX1 formula was orally administrated daily. Behavior test including Morris water maze, novel object recognition testing, elevated plus maze and open field testing was performed. Elisa, immunofluorescence, microarray analysis, and Real-time PCR were analyzed. Results: QX1 formula administration significantly improved survival, alleviated overall cognitive impairment and emotional dysfunction in septic mice. QX1 formula administration dramatically inhibited short and long-term excessive pro-inflammatory cytokine production both peripherally and centrally, and was accompanied by diminished microglial activation in septic mice. Biological processes including synaptic transmission, microglia cell activation, cytokine production, microglia cell polarization, as well as inflammatory responses related to signaling pathways including the MAPK signaling pathway and the NF-κB signaling pathway were altered prominently by QX1 formula treatment in the hippocampus of septic mice. In addition, QX1 formula administration decreased the expression of the M1 phenotype microglia gene markers such as Cd32, Socs3, and Cd68, while up-regulated M2 phenotype marker genes including Myc, Arg-1, and Cd206. Conclusions: QX1 formula administration attenuates cognitive deficits, emotional dysfunction, and reduces neuroinflammatory responses to improve survival in septic mice. Diminished microglial activation and altered microglial polarization are involved in the neuroprotective mechanism of QX1 formula.
Multi-strain Probiotic Increases the Gut Microbiota Diversity in Obese Pregnant Women: Results from a Randomized, Double-blind Placebo-controlled Study
Authors: Halkjær Sofie Ingdam , Knegt Victoria Elisabeth de , Lo Bobby , Nilas Lisbeth , Cortes Dina , Pedersen Anders Elm , Mirsepasi-Lauridsen Hengameh Chloé , Andersen Lee O'Brien , Nielsen Henrik Vedel , Stensvold Christen Rune , Johannesen Thor Bech , Kallemose Thomas , Krogfelt Karen Angeliki , Petersen Andreas Munk
Published: December 2019

Background: Maternal obesity is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Probiotic supplementation during pregnancy may have positive effects on blood glucose, gestational weight gain (GWG), and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The primary aim was to determine the feasibility of probiotic intervention in obese pregnant women from the early second trimester until delivery. The secondary aim was to investigate the effect of daily probiotic supplementation on GWG, maternal glucose homeostasis, infant birthweight, and maternal gut microbiota. We carried out a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study in 50 obese pregnant women. Participants were randomly allocated to two treatment groups, multi-strain probiotic [Vivomixx®] or placebo at 14–20 weeks of gestation until delivery. Participants were followed with two pre-delivery visits at gestational week 27-30 and 36-37 and with one post-delivery visit 2-3 days after birth. All visits included blood and fecal sampling. An oral glucose tolerance test was performed at inclusion and gestational week 27-30. Results: Forty-nine participants completed the study. Thirty-eight participants took more than 80% of the Vivomixx® capsules (n=21), placebo (n=17). There was no significant difference in HbA1c levels and the occurrence of GDM between groups. There was no significant difference in GWG and infant birth weight between groups in intention to treat analysis. There was, however, a lower mean GWG (11.9 vs 13.0 kg) and lower mean infant birthweight (3554 vs 3658 g) in the probiotic group in the per protocol analysis, due to sample size this difference did not reach statistical significance. Fecal microbiota analyses showed an overall increase in α-diversity over time in the Vivomixx® group only (p=0.016). Conclusions: Administration of probiotics during pregnancy is feasible in obese women. Multi-strain probiotic can modulate the gut microbiota in obese women during pregnancy. A larger study population is needed to uncover whether the results regarding lower GWG and infant birth weight after probiotic supplementation are significant. Trial registration: ClincalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02508844, registered on May 11, 2015.