bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Stress and Coping among Nursing Students in the College of Nursing at University of Hail, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Albaqawi Hamdan
Published: October 2018

Background: Faced with a multiple roles from the demands of classroom and clinical area, nursing students are predisposed to stressful experience. As panacea thereof, an implementation of applicable coping intermediations to assist in the management of stress in nursing students is a pressing need. Methods: This research employed a cross-sectional analytical design using regression analysis in probing the association of the demographic variables affecting the perceived stress and coping among nursing students in the north-western region of Saudi Arabia. There were 200 nursing students (38% response rate) who participated in the study. The researcher used the Perceived Stress Scale by Cohen and COPE inventory by Carver. Results: The data suggests that majority of the respondents (61%; n=200) perceived a moderate amount of stress (20.52+7.59) as nursing students. In response to stress, the Saudi nursing students utilized emotion-focused coping strategy in the context of religious practices (3.53+0.31). Regression analysis, on the association of demographic variables to perceived stress, identified that the female nursing students (60%; n=200) have heightened perception of stress (p=.000; r2=.136; Coefficient=3.633). Meanwhile, in terms of the demographic variables to coping, results revealed that married (74.5%; n=200) students are more likely to cope negatively in response to stress (p=.025; r2=.061; B = -8.324), together with students belonging to the regular program (73.5%; n=200) with poor coping responses as well (p=.015; r2=.061; B = -16.160). Conclusion: Female gender can have an influence with the perceived stress of the nursing students. Moreover, married marital status and regular nursing program may have a high probability of affecting the coping mechanism of the nursing students negatively. To validate the conclusion, other factors such as clinical competence, self-esteem, time management abilities, family finances and quality of student life maybe sources of stress and can be considered in further assessing coping responses to stress in later studies. Further studies are recommended on other branches of education such as engineering, education and arts to evaluate similarity or contrast of results. It is important to explore the effect of stress on students and thoroughly assess their capacity in responding to stress. Stress management activities are a must to help achieve positive coping behaviors among nursing students. Keywords: Coping, Nursing, Nursing Students, Perceived Stress
Healthcare Professional’s Burnout and Measures to Alleviate Occupational Stress and Depression
Authors: Liliana Moreno Martha , Monica Flowers
Published: October 2018

Recent studies have indicated that high levels of stress, emotional fatigue, and depression significantly affect the work competency of healthcare professionals; and that more than a third of healthcare professionals across the world report one or more symptoms of burnout. Yet being in a field that requires urgency and long hours, it becomes imperative to develop strategies to alleviate such issues while improving the healthcare services offered to patients. The purpose of this literature review and analysis is to highlight how healthcare professional burnout occurs, explore measures to remediate these issues, and how meditation, as a stress reliever, is an effective method to reduce stress and anxiety levels among healthcare providers.

Keywords: Burnout, Stress, Depression, Meditation, Cortisol
Pengaruh Penerapan Dimensi Value For Money Terhadap Akuntabilitas Publik Pada Dinas Kesehatan Kabupaten Pohuwato
Authors: Abdullah Julie
Published: October 2018

This study aims to determine the effect of dimensional Value For Money to the public accountability at the Department of Health Pohuwato. As for the background of this study because of the negative phenomena that occur in the application of the dimensions of value for money that is stronger demands for accountability by the public on public institutions, both at central and local levels. Application of dimension value for money is very necessary both to manage and use resources owned by the organization as well as a form of public sector organizations to the public over the public resources entrusted to the organization.In addition, low-dimensional application value for money causes decreased levels of government accountability and increase the risk of investment and reduce the ability to compete with other public sector organizations were similar.
Penambahan Tepung Sagu dan Tepung Terigu pada Pembuatan Roti Manis
Authors: Makmur Satria A
Published: October 2018

Expect this research can provide information about the utilization of sago flour becomes economically benilai products that can be used in the manufacture of food products and then give you information on how to manufacture of sago flour with sweet bread. This research was carried out in the laboratory of Agricultural Technology Courses in February of the year 2017. The materials used in this study was powdered sugar, instant yeast, milk powder, salt, emulsifier, fresh milk, flour and sago appropriate treatment, egg yolks, butter and water ice. While the instrument used was a knife, a plastic sink, oven, baking pans, mixers, Cain and scales. This research method using a complete randomized design (RAL) consisting of three treatment addition of sago flour with wheat flour as much as 3 times. a sweet bread in the produce in a test of water content, rate of carbohydrates and organoleptic (taste, colour, texture and aroma) of research results of research regarding the addition of hasi flour with flour in bread making sago sweet get averages – average water content (33.30%) levels of carbohydrates (61.45%) on different treatment – different. A test of the level of fondness toward color, flavor, aroma and texture the highest results contained on the A3 where a 50% wheat flour and sago flour 50% because many of the panelists liked the organoleptic. Keywords : Sago Flour, All Purpose Flour, Bread Flour, The Addition Of Sago
Pembuatan Bolu dengan Substitusi Tepung Pisang Goroho
Authors: Datunsolang Irwan
Published: October 2018

This research is to determine the manufacture of bolu substitution basic flour banana goroho. this study using the design of randomized complete (RAL) with three treatment three times replay, a1 formulated flour banana goroho 150gr and wheat flour 50gr, a2 formulated flour banana goroho 100gr and wheat flour 100gr, a3 formulated flour banana goroho50 grams and wheat flour 150gr. parameters analyzed is water content, ash content, level of carbohydrate and test organoleptic (color, taste, aroma and texture). the results showed that the treatment a2 with the formulation of flour banana goroho 100gr and wheat flour 100gr is the best treatment which can produce bolu preferred by panelists terms, taste, aroma and texture. scent that 4,00, sense that 4,23, and texture that 4,37. and have ash content meet the standards of quality National Indonesia and has a level of carbohydrate 18,37%., water content 27,71% and ash content 1,30%  Keywords : sponge, wheat flour, flour banana goroho
Analisis Kadar Protein Dan Tingkat Kesukaan Nugget Ikan Gabus Dengan Penambahan Tepung Wortel
Authors: Yulianti Yulianti , Mutia Khairun
Published: October 2018

Snakehead fish one species of freshwater having high protein content. In addition snakehead fish has a lot of meat and white so that it can be processed into products such as nuggets. The addition of carrot flour nuggets in processing aims to increase the nutritional value and reduce the use of a binder such as flour. This research uses the method developed consists of two phases,  in the first making carrot flour and the second phase of making nuggets snakehead fish with formulation flour carrot (20g , 30g, 40g) , tapioca flour ( 80g , 90g, 70g) and wheat flour (50g, 30g, 40g). Data analysis using a completely randomized design (CRD) with three time test. The results snakehead fish nuggets are a high protein content from 16.03 to 24.7% and and favored by the panel both in terms of taste, color, aroma and texture. Keyword : snakehead fish, nugget, carrot
Analisis Location Quotient dalam Penentuan Sektor Basis dan Non Basis di Kabupaten Gorontalo
Authors: R. Jumiyanti Kalzum
Published: October 2018

Identifying basic sectors and sub-sectors is one of stages to plan strategic area expansion for the centre of economy growth. Therefore, Location Quotient Analysis is needed to understand how far the level of specialization of economy sectors in particular area in utilizing its basis sectors or leading sectors. Basic sectors can be determined by using Location Quotient (LQ) method. Variables used to calculate basis economy are from local GDP of an activity focused on activities in the local economy structures. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is an  important indicator to understand economy condition particularly in Gorontalo  Regency in particular period, either based on current prices or constant price. Data collection process done by using secondary data survey based on documents from Statistics of Gorontalo Regency and Statistics of Gorontalo Province. From 2012 up to 2016, processing industry sectors and  service sectors have been stable basis in terms of improving LQ value and its GDP in an analysis period. This can be possible that those two sectors have contributed on the improvement of GDP of Gorontalo Regency including all other sectora that also become basis  such as Mining and Excavation sector, agriculture  sector and others.
Effects of Preoperative Mean Platelet Volume on Early Outcomes of Patients After Conventional Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Hasan Md Amirul , Milon Md Kamrul Hasan , Kashem Md Abul , Karim Md Rezaul
Published: October 2018

An elevated mean platelet volume is associated with increased platelet activation and thus may predict thrombotic events including major cardiac adverse events after CABG surgery. The association of mean platelet volume with in-hospital outcome of patients after coronary artery bypasses grafting surgery was investigated in this study. Preoperative mean platelet volume was obtained prospectively in 8^ consecutive patients undergoing conventional coronary artery bypass surgery. Postoperative mortality and major adverse events were recorded in the early postoperative Period. Combined adverse events including post operative Myocardial Infarction (Ml), arrhythmia, bleeding and death occurred in 27 patients (33.3%) during the early follow-up. The preoperative mean platelet volume levels were found to be associated with postoperative adverse events (p<0.05). In multivariate logistic regression models, the preoperative mean platelet voluue levels was found strong independent predictor of combined adverse events after surgery (OR 1.968, p=0.008).University Heart Journal Vol. 14, No. 1, Jan 2018; 24-27
Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: An Update
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Walidur , Mahmood Manzoor , Hoque Harisul , Khaled Fakhrul Islam , Salim Md Abu
Published: October 2018

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a life threatening entity of peripartum period characterized by left entricular systolic dysfunction and heart failure in absence of any known cardiac disease. Though its incidence is rising but till now its incidence, pathogenesis, optimum management protocol are not known. Oxidative stress–prolactin hypothesis , anti-angiogenic-signalling excess hypothesis, viral myocarditis and genetic predisposition are some attractive etiologic explanation but nothing is proven comprehensively. Novel biomarkers and role of new imaging modalities are being investigated. As benefit by targeted therapy like bromocriptine or pentoxifylline are inconsistent, so controlling volume status, neutralizing maladaptive neurohormonal response and treatment of complications are required.prognosis is reasonably good. The aim of this review to highlight its pathophysiology, emerging investigatios modalities, and updated management protocol.University Heart Journal Vol. 14, No. 1, Jan 2018; 38-41
Beethoven's Leonore in Berlin around 1900: On Contextual Factors of Music Performances as Source Material for Past Emotional Practices
Authors: Rademacher Wiebke
Published: October 2018

The last decades have seen a steady increase of historians and historical musicologists whose research focuses on concert audiences and music performances. While previous research on music predominantly dealt with the analysis of works, their ‘great’ composers, and musical styles, now musical events and their audiences have more and more come into consideration. Scholars have tried, for instance, to explain how the ascending bourgeoisie influenced various parameters of concert life in the eighteenth and nineteenth century. They have examined changing behavioural patterns of the audience (Müller 2015, Johnson 1994) and a ‘transformation of taste’ (Weber 2000). Most of the studies, however, do not really attempt to explain what role the emotional impact of music itself played. How did audiences experience different musical styles in different contexts? This article approaches this rather difficult question by applying a comparative methodology. The starting point is the observation that the performance contexts of ‘classical’ music were far from being homogeneous. By examining four performances of Ludwig van Beethoven's Leonora Overture No. 3 in highly different social contexts in Berlin from 1895–1907 — ranging from gala concerts of working class choirs, to open air military concerts, to performances in bourgeois circles — this article attempts to illustrate how the analysis of concert contexts can serve as a means to better understand the emotional experiences of concert audiences.
Walter Scott and Waterloo
Authors: Tulloch Graham
Published: October 2018

Walter Scott responded very quickly to the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo and within a few weeks he was at the site of the battle. Even before he left Britain, publicity about his projected poem The Field of Waterloo had appeared in the British press and it was soon followed by publicity for his prose account, Paul's Letters to his Kinsfolk. Faced with a battle quite unlike anything he had written about before, Scott tried, with mixed success, to find a new way of writing about this new kind of warfare. Media coverage of the poem was extensive but most critics disliked the poem and believed he should stick to medieval topics. Paul's Letters were also covered extensively in the print media but were well received, partly because they looked forward to new ways of memorialising war which would dominate the remembering of Waterloo for the coming century.
Effects of Soil-Applied Fungicides on Sugarcane Root and Shoot Growth, Rhizosphere Microbial Communities, and Nutrient Uptake
Authors: Vuyyuru Murali , Sandhu Hardev S. , McCray James M. , Raid Richard N.
Published: October 2018

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) successive planting (also called monoculture) causes serious yield losses and its management is not well studied in Histosols. Based on very few studies in other sugarcane regions, root colonization by harmful soil fungi is considered as a major cause of this yield decline, but there is lack of knowledge on its management in Histosols. A two-year greenhouse study was conducted with soil-drench application of mancozeb, mefenoxam, and azoxystrobin fungicides to determine their effects on early root and shoot growth, soil microbial communities, and nutrient uptake by plants. The study indicated that mancozeb soil application improved sugarcane-shoot and -root dry matter by 3–4 times and shoot-root length, fine-root length, and root surface area by 2–3 times compared to untreated soil. Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analyses of sugarcane rhizosphere soil showed significant reduction in fungal-biomarker abundance with mancozeb and azoxystrobin in comparison to the untreated check or mefenoxam treatments. Bacterial functional-group abundance was reduced by mancozeb and mefenoxam. All fungicides significantly reduced mycorrhizal colonization but not mycorrhizal spore counts. There was a functional relationship between fine-root systems and higher tissue concentration of nitrogen and silicon. The study indicated that application of fungicides to the soil may improve early root and shoot growth and plant-cane establishment that can potentially reduce the yield decline in successively planted sugarcane in histosols. Additional field research is needed in the future to determine the fungicide soil application method, sugarcane growth response in whole crop cycles, and any environmental effects.
Polyphenol Fingerprinting Approaches in Wine Traceability and Authenticity: Assessment and Implications of Red Wines
Authors: Palade Laurentiu Mihai , Popa Mona Elena
Published: October 2018

Like any other food/feed matrix, regardless of the employed analytical method, wine requires authentication strategies; a suitable qualitative and quantitative analysis represents the fingerprint which defines its identity. Until recently, fingerprinting approaches using liquid chromatography applications have been regarded as an effective tool for the assessment of wines employing polyphenol profiles. These profiles are of considerable importance for grapes and wines as they influence greatly the color, sensory, and nutritional quality of the final product. The authenticity and typicity characters are fundamental characteristics, which may be evaluated by the use of polyphenol fingerprinting techniques. Under these conditions, the evolution of polyphenols during the red wine elaboration and maturation processes shows a high importance at the level of the obtained fingerprints. Moreover, the environment factors (vintage, the area of origin, and variety) and the technological conditions significantly influence wine authenticity through the use of polyphenol profiles. Taking into account the complexity of the matter at hand, this review outlines the latest trends in the polyphenol fingerprinting of red wines in association with the transformations that occur during winemaking and storage.
GSK461364A, a Polo-Like Kinase-1 Inhibitor Encapsulated in Polymeric Nanoparticles for the Treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM)
Authors: Velpurisiva Praveena , Piel Brandon P. , Lepine Jack , Rai Prakash
Published: October 2018

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is a common primary brain cancer with a poor prognosis and a median survival of less than 14 months. Current modes of treatment are associated with deleterious side effects that reduce the life span of the patients. Nanomedicine enables site-specific delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients and facilitates entrapment inside the tumor. Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK-1) inhibitors have shown promising results in tumor cells. GSK461364A (GSK) is one such targeted inhibitor with reported toxicity issues in phase 1 clinical trials. We have demonstrated in our study that the action of GSK is time dependent across all concentrations. There is a distinct 15−20% decrease in cell viability via apoptosis in U87-MG cells dosed with GSK at low concentrations (within the nanomolar and lower micromolar range) compared to higher concentrations of the drug. Additionally, we have confirmed that PLGA-PEG nanoparticles (NPs) containing GSK have shown significant reduction in cell viability of tumor cells compared to their free equivalents. Thus, this polymeric nanoconstruct encapsulating GSK can be effective even at low concentrations and could improve the effectiveness of the drug while reducing side effects at the lower effective dose. This is the first study to report a PLK-1 inhibitor (GSK) encapsulated in a nanocarrier for cancer applications.
Low PD-L1 Expression Strongly Correlates with Local Recurrence in Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma after Radiation-Based Therapy
Authors: Liu Yu-Jen , Tsang Ngan-Ming , Hsueh Chuen , Yeh Chi-Ju , Ueng Shir-Hwa , Wang Tong-Hong , Chuang Wen-Yu
Published: October 2018

The prognostic value of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is controversial, with previous studies showing conflicting results. Most NPCs in endemic areas are Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive. Our aim was to evaluate the clinical significance of PD-L1 expression in EBV-positive NPC. We retrospectively analyzed PD-L1 expression on tumor cells (TCs) and immune cells (ICs) by immunohistochemistry in 208 EBV-positive NPC patients who underwent radiotherapy (203 with concurrent chemotherapy). The percentages of TCs and ICs expressing PD-L1 were evaluated respectively. There was a strong correlation between local recurrence and low PD-L1 expression on ICs (p = 0.0012), TCs (p = 0.013) or both (p = 0.000044), whereas all clinical parameters had no influence on local recurrence. Using multivariate analysis, low PD-L1 expression on ICs was an independent adverse prognostic factor (p = 0.0080; HR = 1.88; 95% CI = 1.18–3.00) for disease-free survival. High PD-L1 expression on both ICs and TCs was an independent favorable prognostic factor (p = 0.022; HR = 0.46; 95% CI = 0.24–0.89) for overall survival. We show for the first time that low PD-L1 expression on ICs and TCs strongly correlates with local recurrence in EBV-positive NPC patients after radiation-based therapy. A simple immunohistochemical study for PD-L1 can identify patients prone to local recurrence, and such patients might benefit from more aggressive treatment in future clinical trials.
Ontology Middleware for Integration of IoT Healthcare Information Systems in EHR Systems
Authors: Alamri Abdullah
Published: October 2018

Healthcare sectors have been at the forefront of the adoption and use of IoT technologies for efficient healthcare diagnosis and treatment. Because healthcare IoT sensor technology obtains health-related data from patients, it needs to be integrated with the electronic healthcare records (EHR) system. Most EHR systems have not been designed for integration with IoT technology; they have been designed to be more patient-centric management systems. The use of the IoT in EHR remains a long-term goal. Configuring IoT in EHR can enhance patient healthcare, enabling health providers to monitor their patients outside of the clinic. To assist physicians to access data resources efficiently, a data model that is semantic and flexible is needed to connect EHR data and IoT data that may help to provide true interoperability and integration. This research proposes a semantic middleware that exploits ontology to support the semantic integration and functional collaborations between IoT healthcare Information Systems and EHR systems.
Entropy Signature for Crack Networks in Old Paintings: Saturation Prospectus
Authors: Flores Juan César
Published: October 2018

In desiccated films, particularly with old paintings, molecular bonds may break to create intricate patterns of macroscopic cracks. The resulting directions of the cracks quantifiably enable an evaluation of the entropy and degree of disorder in the network. Experimental tests on prepared samples and a two-interacting-variables model allow the evolution of entropy to be tracked. Calculations were performed, primarily using data from the painting Girl with a Pearl Earring by Vermeer, revealing that the left side of the girl’s face features a crack structure with higher entropy (or less order) than the right side. Other old paintings were considered. The extrapolation of experiments to these old paintings confirms that saturation still is not reached.
Managing Moist Forests of the Pacific Northwest United States for Climate Positive Outcomes
Authors: Fain Stephen J. , Kittler Brian , Chowyuk Amira
Published: October 2018

The moist forests of the Pacific Northwest United States (PNW) are among the most naturally carbon rich ecoregions in the world. However, regional in-forest carbon storage levels are currently well below ecological potential. Recent climate policy proposals have renewed and deepened debates over forest sector climate strategies. This paper begins with a review of regionally applicable forest carbon life cycle assessments (LCAs) in an effort to provide some clarity around how these studies are conducted, and why their results may vary. The review highlights the importance of assumptions made during carbon accounting across the wood product lifespan and how the inclusion or exclusions of variables, such as product substitution and leakage, influence study results and subsequent management recommendations. Next we discuss the influence of climate change on forest management and planning. We conclude with a review of regional-specific factors to consider when developing optimal forest climate strategies in the moist forests of the PNW. These strategies include, but are not limited to; extending harvest rotations, shelterwood and select tree harvests (in lieu of full harvest), and managing forests for increased structural, age, and species complexity.
Biological and Ecological Roles of External Fish Mucus: A Review
Authors: Reverter Miriam , Tapissier-Bontemps Nathalie , Lecchini David , Banaigs Bernard , Sasal Pierre
Published: October 2018

Fish mucus layers are the main surface of exchange between fish and the environment, and they possess important biological and ecological functions. Fish mucus research is increasing rapidly, along with the development of high-throughput techniques, which allow the simultaneous study of numerous genes and molecules, enabling a deeper understanding of the fish mucus composition and its functions. Fish mucus plays a major role against fish infections, and research has mostly focused on the study of fish mucus bioactive molecules (e.g., antimicrobial peptides and immune-related molecules) and associated microbiota due to their potential in aquaculture and human medicine. However, external fish mucus surfaces also play important roles in social relationships between conspecifics (fish shoaling, spawning synchronisation, suitable habitat finding, or alarm signals) and in interspecific interactions such as prey-predator relationships, parasite–host interactions, and symbiosis. This article reviews the biological and ecological roles of external (gills and skin) fish mucus, discussing its importance in fish protection against pathogens and in intra and interspecific interactions. We also discuss the advances that “omics” sciences are bringing into the fish mucus research and their importance in studying the fish mucus composition and functions.
The Reelin Receptors Apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2) and VLDL Receptor
Authors: Dlugosz Paula , Nimpf Johannes
Published: October 2018

Apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2) and VLDL receptor belong to the low density lipoprotein receptor family and bind apolipoprotein E. These receptors interact with the clathrin machinery to mediate endocytosis of macromolecules but also interact with other adapter proteins to perform as signal transduction receptors. The best characterized signaling pathway in which ApoER2 and VLDL receptor (VLDLR) are involved is the Reelin pathway. This pathway plays a pivotal role in the development of laminated structures of the brain and in synaptic plasticity of the adult brain. Since Reelin and apolipoprotein E, are ligands of ApoER2 and VLDLR, these receptors are of interest with respect to Alzheimer’s disease. We will focus this review on the complex structure of ApoER2 and VLDLR and a recently characterized ligand, namely clusterin.
Purine-Furan and Purine-Thiophene Conjugates
Authors: Kapilinskis Zigfrīds , Novosjolova Irina , Turks Māris
Published: October 2018

Furyl and thienyl moieties were introduced into a purine structure to elevate its fluorescence properties, while a trityl group was used to increase the amorphous properties of the purine compounds. The title compounds were prepared by a sequence involving a Mitsunobu, a SNAr and a Suzuki–Miyaura reaction and their photophysical properties were studied. Quantum yields in the solution reached up to 88% but only up to 5% in the thin layer.
Tunneling Time in Attosecond Experiments and Time Operator in Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Kullie Ossama
Published: October 2018

Attosecond science is of a fundamental interest in physics. The measurement of the tunneling time in attosecond experiments, offers a fruitful opportunity to understand the role of time in quantum mechanics (QM). We discuss in this paper our tunneling time model in relation to two time operator definitions introduced by Bauer and Aharonov–Bohm. We found that both definitions can be generalized to the same type of time operator. Moreover, we found that the introduction of a phenomenological parameter by Bauer to fit the experimental data is unnecessary. The issue is resolved with our tunneling model by considering the correct barrier width, which avoids a misleading interpretation of the experimental data. Our analysis shows that the use of the so-called classical barrier width, to be precise, is incorrect.
On Some Inequalities Involving Liouville–Caputo Fractional Derivatives and Applications to Special Means of Real Numbers
Authors: Samet Bessem , Aydi Hassen
Published: October 2018

We are concerned with the class of functions f ∈ C 1 ( [ a , b ] ; R ) , a , b ∈ R , a < b , such that c D a α f is convex or c D b α f is convex, where 0 < α < 1 , c D a α f is the left-side Liouville–Caputo fractional derivative of order α of f and c D b α f is the right-side Liouville–Caputo fractional derivative of order α of f. Some extensions of Dragomir–Agarwal inequality to this class of functions are obtained. A parallel development is made for the class of functions f ∈ C 1 ( [ a , b ] ; R ) such that c D a α f is concave or c D b α f is concave. Next, an application to special means of real numbers is provided.
Zinc Finger Readers of Methylated DNA
Authors: Hudson Nicholas O. , Buck-Koehntop Bethany A.
Published: October 2018

DNA methylation is a prevalent epigenetic modification involved in regulating a number of essential cellular processes, including genomic accessibility and transcriptional outcomes. As such, aberrant alterations in global DNA methylation patterns have been associated with a growing number of disease conditions. Nevertheless, the full mechanisms by which DNA methylation information is interpreted and translated into genomic responses is not yet fully understood. Methyl-CpG binding proteins (MBPs) function as important mediators of this essential process by selectively reading DNA methylation signals and translating this information into down-stream cellular outcomes. The Cys2His2 zinc finger scaffold is one of the most abundant DNA binding motifs found within human transcription factors, yet only a few zinc finger containing proteins capable of conferring selectivity for mCpG over CpG sites have been characterized. This review summarizes our current structural understanding for the mechanisms by which the zinc finger MBPs evaluated to date read this essential epigenetic mark. Further, some of the biological implications for mCpG readout elicited by this family of MBPs are discussed.
Synthesis of New Triarylpyrazole Derivatives Possessing Terminal Sulfonamide Moiety and Their Inhibitory Effects on PGE2 and Nitric Oxide Productions in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced RAW 264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Abdel-Maksoud Mohammed S. , El-Gamal Mohammed I. , Gamal El-Din Mahmoud M. , Choi Yunji , Choi Jungseung , Shin Ji-Sun , Kang Shin-Young , Yoo Kyung Ho , Lee Kyung-Tae , Baek Daejin , Oh Chang-Hyun
Published: October 2018

This article describes the design, synthesis, and in vitro anti-inflammatory screening of new triarylpyrazole derivatives. A total of 34 new compounds were synthesized containing a terminal arylsulfonamide moiety and a different linker between the sulfonamide and pyridine ring at position 4 of the pyrazole ring. All the target compounds were tested for both cytotoxicity and nitric oxide (NO) production inhibition in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. Compounds 1b, 1d, 1g, 2a, and 2c showed the highest NO inhibition percentages and the lowest cytotoxic effect. The most potent derivatives were tested for their ability to inhibit prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. The IC50 for nitric oxide inhibition, PGE2 inhibition, and cell viability were determined. In addition, 1b, 1d, 1g, 2a, and 2c were tested for their inhibitory effect on LPS-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) protein expression as well as iNOS enzymatic activity.
Identification of Anti-Melanogenesis Constituents from Morus alba L. Leaves
Authors: Li Hong Xu , Park Jung Up , Su Xiang Dong , Kim Kyung Tae , Kang Jong Seong , Kim Young Ran , Kim Young Ho , Yang Seo Young
Published: October 2018

The individual parts of Morus alba L. including root bark, branches, leaves, and fruits are used as a cosmetic ingredient in many Asian countries. This study identified several anti-melanogenesis constituents in a 70% ethanol extract of M. alba leaves. The ethyl acetate fraction of the initial ethanol extract decreased the activity of tyrosinase, a key enzyme in the synthetic pathway of melanin. Twelve compounds were isolated from this fraction and their structures were identified based on spectroscopic spectra. Then, the authors investigated the anti-melanogenesis effects of the isolated compounds in B16-F10 mouse melanoma cells. Compounds 3 and 8 significantly inhibited not only melanin production but also intracellular tyrosinase activity in alpha-melanocyte-stimulating-hormone (α-MSH)-induced B16-F10 cells in a dose-dependent manner. These same compounds also inhibited melanogenesis-related protein expression such as microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, and tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP-1). Compound 3 modulated the cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB) and p38 signaling pathways in α-MSH-activated B16-F10 melanoma cells, which resulted in the anti-melanogenesis effects. These results suggest that compound 3, isolated from M. alba leaves, could be used to inhibit melanin production via the regulation of melanogenesis-related protein expression.
Poly-Gamma-Glutamic Acid (γ-PGA)-Based Encapsulation of Adenovirus to Evade Neutralizing Antibodies
Authors: Khalil Ibrahim R. , Khechara Martin P. , Kurusamy Sathishkumar , Armesilla Angel L. , Gupta Abhishek , Mendrek Barbara , Khalaf Tamara , Scandola Mariastella , Focarete Maria Letizia , Kowalczuk Marek , Radecka Iza
Published: October 2018

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in oncolytic adenoviral vectors as an alternative anticancer therapy. The induction of an immune response can be considered as a major limitation of this kind of application. Significant research efforts have been focused on the development of biodegradable polymer poly-gamma-glutamic acid (γ-PGA)-based nanoparticles used as a vector for effective and safe anticancer therapy, owing to their controlled and sustained-release properties, low toxicity, as well as biocompatibility with tissue and cells. This study aimed to introduce a specific destructive and antibody blind polymer-coated viral vector into cancer cells using γ-PGA and chitosan (CH). Adenovirus was successfully encapsulated into the biopolymer particles with an encapsulation efficiency of 92% and particle size of 485 nm using the ionic gelation method. Therapeutic agents or nanoparticles (NPs) that carry therapeutics can be directed specifically to cancerous cells by decorating their surfaces using targeting ligands. Moreover, in vitro neutralizing antibody response against viral capsid proteins can be somewhat reduced by encapsulating adenovirus into γ-PGA-CH NPs, as only 3.1% of the encapsulated adenovirus was detected by anti-adenovirus antibodies in the presented work compared to naked adenoviruses. The results obtained and the unique characteristics of the polymer established in this research could provide a reference for the coating and controlled release of viral vectors used in anticancer therapy.
Organotin(IV) Dithiocarbamate Complexes: Chemistry and Biological Activity
Authors: Adeyemi Jerry O. , Onwudiwe Damian C.
Published: October 2018

Significant attention has been given to organotin(IV) dithiocabamate compounds in recent times. This is due to their ability to stabilize specific stereochemistry in their complexes, and their diverse application in agriculture, biology, catalysis and as single source precursors for tin sulfide nanoparticles. These complexes have good coordination chemistry, stability and diverse molecular structures which, thus, prompt their wide range of biological activities. Their unique stereo-electronic properties underline their relevance in the area of medicinal chemistry. Organotin(IV) dithiocabamate compounds owe their functionalities and usefulness to the individual properties of the organotin(IV) and the dithiocarbamate moieties present within the molecule. These individual properties create a synergy of action in the hybrid complex, prompting an enhanced biological activity. In this review, we discuss the chemistry of organotin(IV) dithiocarbamate complexes that accounts for their relevance in biology and medicine.
2′-O-Methyl-8-methylguanosine as a Z-Form RNA Stabilizer for Structural and Functional Study of Z-RNA
Authors: Balasubramaniyam Thananjeyan , Ishizuka Takumi , Xiao Chao-Da , Bao Hong-Liang , Xu Yan
Published: October 2018

In contrast to Z-DNA that was stabilized and well-studied for its structure by chemical approaches, the stabilization and structural study of Z-RNA remains a challenge. In this study, we developed a Z-form RNA stabilizer m8Gm, and demonstrated that incorporation of m8Gm into RNA can markedly stabilize the Z-RNA at low salt conditions. Using the m8Gm-contained Z-RNA, we determined the structure of Z-RNA and investigated the interaction of protein and Z-RNA.
High Potency of Melaleuca alternifolia Essential Oil against Multi-Drug Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Oliva Alessandra , Costantini Silvia , De Angelis Massimiliano , Garzoli Stefania , Božović Mijat , Mascellino Maria , Vullo Vincenzo , Ragno Rino
Published: October 2018

Purpose: Herein, an extended investigation of Tea tree oil (TTO) against a number of multi-drug resistant (MDR) microorganisms in liquid and vapor phases is reported. Methods: The activity of TTO was tested against methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), Escherichia coli, and clinical strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), extended-spectrum beta lactamases producer carbapenem-sensitive Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-CS-Kp), carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CR-Kp), Acinetobacter baumannii (CR-Ab), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CR-Pa). Minimal inhibitory/bactericidal concentrations (MIC/MBCs) and synergistic activity between TTO and different antimicrobials were determined. In the vapor assay (VP), TTO-impregnated discs were placed on the lid of a petri dish and incubated for 24 h at 37 °C. Results: TTO showed a potent bactericidal activity against all the tested microorganisms. TTO in combination with each reference antimicrobial showed a high level of synergism at sub-inhibitory concentrations, particularly with oxacillin (OXA) against MRSA. The VP assay showed high activity of TTO against CR-Ab. Conclusion: Evaluation of in-vitro activity clearly indicated TTO as a potential effective antimicrobial treatment either alone or in association with known drugs against MDR. Therefore, TTO could represent the basis for a possible role in non-conventional regimens against S. aureus and Gram-negative MDR. TTO in VP might represent a promising option for local therapy of pneumonia caused by CR-Ab.
Environmental and Experimental Factors Affecting Efficacy Testing of Nonporous Plastic Antimicrobial Surfaces
Authors: Redfern James , Tucker Jake , Simmons Lisa M. , Askew Peter , Stephan Ina , Verran Joanna
Published: October 2018

Test methods for efficacy assessment of antimicrobial coatings are not modelled on a hospital environment, and instead use high humidity (>90%) high temperature (37 °C), and no airflow. Therefore, an inoculum will not dry, resulting in an antimicrobial surface exhibiting prolonged antimicrobial activity, as moisture is critical to activity. Liquids will dry quicker in a hospital ward, resulting in a reduced antimicrobial efficacy compared to the existing test, rendering the test results artificially favourable to the antimicrobial claim of the product. This study aimed to assess how hospital room environmental conditions can affect the drying time of an inoculum, and to use this data to inform test parameters for antimicrobial efficacy testing based on the hospital ward. The drying time of different droplet sizes, in a range of environmental conditions likely found in a hospital ward, were recorded (n = 630), and used to create a model to inform users of the experimental conditions required to provide a drying time similar to what can be expected in the hospital ward. Drying time data demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) variance when humidity, temperature, and airflow were assessed. A mathematical model was created to select environmental conditions for in vitro antimicrobial efficacy testing. Drying time in different environmental conditions demonstrates that experimental set-ups affect the amount of time an inoculum stays wet, which in turn may affect the efficacy of an antimicrobial surface. This should be an important consideration for hospitals and other potential users, whilst future tests predict efficacy in the intended end-use environment.
The Role of Rayleigh-Wood Anomalies and Surface Plasmons in Optical Enhancement for Nano-Gratings
Authors: Darweesh Ahmad A. , Bauman Stephen J. , Debu Desalegn T. , Herzog Joseph B.
Published: October 2018

We propose and report on the design of a 1-D metallo-dielectric nano-grating on a GaAs substrate. We numerically study the impact of grating period, slit and wire widths, and irradiating angle of incidence on the optical response. The optimal wire width, w = 160 nm, was chosen based on previous results from investigations into the influence of wire width and nano-slit dimensions on optical and electrical enhancements in metal-semiconductor-metal photodetectors. In this present project, resonant absorption and reflection modes were observed while varying the wire and nano-slit widths to study the unique optical modes generated by Rayleigh-Wood anomalies and surface plasmon polaritons. We observed sharp and diffuse changes in optical response to these anomalies, which may potentially be useful in applications such as photo-sensing and photodetectors. Additionally, we found that varying the slit width produced sharper, more intense anomalies in the optical spectrum than varying the wire width.
A Qualitative Evaluation of the eaTracker® Mobile App
Authors: Lieffers Jessica R. L. , Valaitis Renata F. , George Tessy , Wilson Mark , Macdonald Janice , Hanning Rhona M.
Published: October 2018

Background: eaTracker® is Dietitians of Canada’s online nutrition/activity self-monitoring tool accessible via website and mobile app. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the eaTracker® mobile app based on user perspectives. Methods: One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with adult eaTracker® mobile app users who had used the app for ≥ 1 week within the past 90 days. Participants (n = 26; 89% female, 73% 18–50 years) were recruited via email. Interview transcripts were coded using first level coding and pattern coding, where first level codes were grouped according to common themes. Results: Participants mentioned several positive aspects of the mobile app which included: (a) Dashboard displays; (b) backed by dietitians; (c) convenience and ease of use; (d) portion size entry; (e) inclusion of food and physical activity recording; and (f) ability to access more comprehensive information via the eaTracker® website. Challenges with the mobile app included: (a) Search feature; (b) limited food database; (c) differences in mobile app versus website; and (d) inability to customize dashboard displayed information. Suggestions were provided to enhance the app. Conclusion: This evaluation provides useful information to improve the eaTracker® mobile app and also for those looking to develop apps to facilitate positive nutrition/physical activity behavior change.
“Cutting Down on Sugar” by Non-Dieting Young Women: An Impact on Diet Quality on Weekdays and the Weekend
Authors: Czlapka-Matyasik Magdalena , Lonnie Marta , Wadolowska Lidia , Frelich Agnieszka
Published: October 2018

Restricted sugar intake is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and may contribute to the prevention of diet-related diseases. The aim of the study was to investigate whether declared sugar restriction is reflected in actual sucrose intake and diet quality of young non-dieting women, with differentiation between the weekend and weekdays. A convenient sample of 192 non-dieting women aged 20–30 years old was recruited. The sample was divided into two groups based on each woman’s declaration: “restricting sugar” (RS, n = 76) and “not restricting sugar” (nRS, n = 116). Comparisons between groups were made separately for seven days of the week, five weekdays and two weekend days without and with an adjustment for 2000 kcal of energy. Relative differences (RD, in %) in mean diet nutritional values between groups were calculated, where RD (%) = (RS − nRS) × 100/nRS, and were verified with a two-tailed t-test. In the seven-day diet of the RS group, in comparison to the nRS group, a lower daily intake of sucrose (by 22%) and MUFA (by 8%) and a higher content of most nutrients (by 7–38%) was found. No significant differences were observed in energy intake between RS and nRS women over the course of seven days, including weekdays and the weekend. Daily intake for the weekend, in comparison to weekdays, in RC and nRC women was higher with respect to energy (by 530 and 512 kcal, i.e., 37% and 34%, respectively), sucrose (44% and 23%, respectively), and most nutrients (by 17–98% and 16–42%, respectively). However, after the adjustment for 2000 kcal of energy, the daily intake of most nutrients in the weekend was lower (by 6–30% and 3–27%, in RS and nRS groups, respectively), than during weekdays. The intention to restrict sucrose has improved diet quality by decreasing sucrose intake and increasing the content of most nutrients, but had no effect on energy intake throughout the week. The quality of the women’s diet during the weekend was compromised, regardless of restricting or not restricting sugar. Encouragement to restrict sugar intake throughout the week and control the food intake during the weekend may be an effective strategy for young women to maintain a healthy diet.
Temperature and Lifetime Measurements in the SSX Wind Tunnel
Authors: Kaur Manjit , Gelber Kaitlin , Light Adam , Brown Michael
Published: October 2018

We describe ion and electron temperature measurements in the Swarthmore Spheromak Experiment (SSX) MHD wind tunnel with the goal of understanding limitations on the lifetime of our Taylor-state plasma. A simple model based on the equilibrium eigenvalue and Spitzer resistivity predicted the lifetime satisfactorily during the first phase of the plasma evolution. We measured an average T e along a chord by taking the ratio of the C I I I 97.7 nm to C I V 155 nm line intensities using a vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) monochromator. We also recorded local measurements of T e and n e using a double Langmuir probe in order to inform our interpretation of the VUV data. Our results indicated that the plasma decayed inductively during a large part of the evolution. Ion Doppler spectroscopy measurements suggested that ions cooled more slowly than would be expected from thermal equilibration with the electrons, which maintained a constant temperature throughout the lifetime of the plasma.