bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENINGKATAN MOTIVASI DAN HASIL BELAJAR MATEMATIKA MATERI MATRIK MELALUI MODEL TEAMS GAMES TOURNAMENS (TGT) PESERTA DIDIK KELAS XII IPS 1 SMA NEGERI 3 PATI TAHUN PELAJARAN 2016/2017
Authors: Utoyo Tri
Published: December 2017

Tujuan penelitian pada penelitian ini adalah : Untuk mengetahui penerapan pembelajaran model Teams Games Tournaments (TGT) dapat meningkatkan motivasi dan hasil belajar peserta didik kelas XII IPS 1 SMA Negeri 3 Pati tahun pelajaran 2016/2017. Proses pembelajaran dilaksanakan dengan 2 siklus yaitu siklus I dan II. Pelaksanaan tahap-tahap ini dibagi menjadi 2 siklus dalam penelitian tindakan kelas (Action Research) yaitu siklus I dan II, masing-masing siklus meliputi : Perencanaan (Planning), Pelaksanaan (Acting), Observasi (Observing), dan Refleksi (Reflecting).Hasil penelitian ini menjelaskan bahwa dari nilai KKM 75 hasil belajar  peserta didik terlihat meningkat dibanding dengan kondisi awal yaitu hanya 11 peserta didik sebesar (32,35%) diatas KKM  telah mengalami peningkatan menjadi 24 peserta didik sebesar (70,58%) pada siklus I dan meningkat 34 peserta didik sebesar (100%) pada siklus II.Saran yang dapat diberikan peneliti antara lain : Untuk meningkatkan situasi pembelajaran yang menyenangkan maka diperlukan model pembelajaran inovasi seperti Teams Games Tournamens (TGT).Kata kunci :  Matrik, Teams Games Tournaments (TGT) AbstractThe purpose of this research is: To know the application of learning model Teams Games Tournaments (TGT) can improve the motivation and learning outcomes of students of class XII IPS 1 SMA Negeri 3 Pati academic year 2016/2017. The learning process is carried out with 2 cycles ie cycle I and II. The implementation of these stages is divided into 2 cycles in Action Research which are cycle I and II, each cycle includes: Planning, Acting, Observing, and Reflecting.The results of this study explain that the value of KKM 75 learning outcomes of students visible increase compared with the initial condition that only 11 students (32.35%) above KKM has increased to 24 students (70.58%) in cycle I and increased 34 students (100%) in cycle II. Suggestions that can be given by researchers include: To improve the learning situation is fun then needed innovative learning models such as Teams Games Tournamens (TGT). This innovative learning model can be used to improve students' learning achievement in matrix reading materials.Keywords : Matrix, Teams Games Tournaments (TGT).
STUDI PENINGKATAN KADAR DISSOLVED OKSIGEN AIR, SETELAH DI INJEKSI DENGAN AERATOR KINCIR ANGIN SAVONIUS ARREUS, MENGGUNAKAN DO METER TYPE LUTRON DO-5510
Authors: Androva Althesa , Harjanto Immadudin
Published: December 2017

Teknologi budidaya perikanan makin maju, semakin meningkat padat tebar, makin besar pula kebutuhan Aerasi. Namun alat aerator relatif mahal, baik harga beli maupun biaya operasionalnya.Disisi lain, arus angin di daerah pesisir sangat besar. Merupakan potensi yang sangat besar untuk energi terbaharukan, maupun untuk aerasi. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui kinerja dari aerator savonius darreus untuk meningkatkan kadar Desolve Oksigen dalam air. Aerator savonius darreius telah dicoba mampu berputar mulai kecepatan angin 2,5 M/S. Aerator savonius darreeius diuji pada tiga tempat yang berbeda, yaitu diuji pada akuarium, pada kolam terbuka, dan pada tambak pembibitan ikan bandeng. Metode pengukuran Desolve Oksigen pada penelitian ini menggunakan DO Meter Type Lutron DO-5510. Pada percobaan dalam akuarium, aerator ssavonius darreius mampu meningkatkan kadar Desolve Oksigen sebesar 0,7 Mg/L3 dalam 50 menit percobaan di siang hari.Pada percobaan dalam kolam terbuka, aerator ssavonius darreius mampu meningkatkan kadar Desolve Oksigen sebesar 0,2 Mg/L3 dalam 50 menit percobaan di siang hari.Pada percobaan dalam tambak pembibitan ikan bandeng, aerator ssavonius darreius belum mampu meningkatkan kadar Desolve Oksigen
Prevalence, impact and treatment of primary dysmenorrhea in workers of an Academic and Research Institute
Authors: Ponce-Monter Héctor A. , Ortiz Mario I. , Fernández-Martínez Eduardo , Soria-Jasso Luis E. , Téllez-Téllez Gloria A. , Martínez-Corona Martha , González-Ramírez Patricia , Romero-Quezada Luis C. , Veras-Godoy Humberto A.
Published: December 2017

Dysmenorrhea is one of the cyclical processes in chronic pelvic pain. Dysmenorrhea in women causes a high psychosocial and economic impact. For this reason, we conducted a study to assess the prevalence, impact and use of drugs for the treatment of dysmenorrhea among workers of an Educational and Research Institute. A prevalence of dysmenorrhea of 57.2% was found. About a half (49.4%) of women with dysmenorrhea reported that it limited their daily activities in 4.1 ± 2.4 cycles per year. 29.3% reported absenteeism by at least 2.7 ± 1.4 (range 1-5) cycles per year. Of the women with dysmenorrhea, only 34.9% consulted a doctor and the most prescribed drugs were over the counter medications with metamizol and butylscopolamine (25.0%), another medicine with paracetamol, pamabrom and pyrilamine (Syncol®, 16.7%) naproxen (12.5%) and mefenamic acid (12.5%). On the other hand, self-medication was practiced by 54.2% of women with dysmenorrhea and the most used drugs were Syncol® (28.9%), naproxen (17.8%), metamizol with butylscopolamine (13.3%) and dipyrone (6.7%). Our data suggest a significant prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea and dysmenorrheic women used many drugs for self-medication, but rarely come to medical services.
Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Curcumin
Authors: De Paz Campos Marco Antonio
Published: December 2017

Curcumin is a polyphenol derived from the herbal remedy and dietary spice turmeric (Curcuma longa) used by men in the exage as medicinal remedy and spice. In the last decades the curcumin has been an object of multiple studies in vitro and in vivo that have established the scientific bases of their numerous therapeutic activities, emphasizing their powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and antioxidant properties. In the present work a revision of the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action is made that include the inhibition of several cell signalling pathways at multiple levels and downregulates cellular enzyme like cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase and nitric oxide synthase. Also the preclinical and clinical studies that have been carried out in this aspect are mentioned, the support, safety and efficiency of the curcumin used with analgesic and antiinflammatory purposes.
Erythroderma caused by vancomycin in children: concentration and speed of infusion
Authors: Luna Álvarez José F. , Gómez Vázquez Mónica , Moreno González Ana L. , Melchor Hernández Aldo , Escamilla-Acosta Marco A. , Romo-Hernández Georgina
Published: December 2017

Vancomycin is an antibiotic glycopeptide that was isolated of the Streptomyces orientalis. It was introduced in the clinical practice for treatment of infections caused by staphylococcus in which other antibiotics were proving to be ineffective. In this retrospective study, we determine its prescription, clinical characteristics as well as the factors that favor the apparition of the erythroderma or red-man syndrome in a paediatric hospital. Forty patients to which physicians administer vancomycin and presented erythroderma were evaluated. Male gender was more predominated, with a total of 25 cases (62.5 %). The average age was of 12 ± 6 years. We identified two main factors that are directly related to the appearance of erythroderma. On one hand, the "concentration of the drug", which is related to the dilution that it is realized when a dose of vancomycin is going to be administered to the patient and on the other hand the “time or speed of infusion”. In the present study, it was found a low incident of this adverse reaction and few cases of complications.
Utility of the broselow tape in Emergency Departments
Authors: Khouli Michael , Ortiz Mario I. , Romo-Hernández Georgina
Published: December 2017

Since medication doses and equipment size vary with patient weight, accurately estimating the weight of pediatric emergency department patients is crucial for optimizing medical care. Often critically ill children cannot be safely weighed in the emergency department. While several different methods for estimating weight have been developed, one validated tool for rapidly estimating patient weight is the Broselow tape. However, some studies have found that this tape is less accurate in different settings, including those with a high prevalence of obesity or malnutrition. This review discusses the accuracy of the tape in several different populations, including children in various countries and those with obesity, compares it to other methods of weight estimation, and briefly addresses implementation of the Broselow tape in the emergency department.
Child depression in patients with cancer
Authors: Romo-Hernández Georgina , Alvarado-Cano Nancy D. , Del Valle-Del Valle Fernando , Macías-Vargas Gabriela , Escamilla Acosta Marco A.
Published: December 2017

Depression is characterized by a set of symptoms such as sadness, irritability, loss of interest, fatigue, feelings of ineptitude and guilt, insomnia, suicidal thoughts, loss of appetite, weight loss, and difficulty concentrating, etc. When a patient is diagnosed with any form of cancer, it may suffer depression among other behavioral disorders. Therefore, this research was conducted in order to know the depressive symptoms that cancer patients present at the Children´s Hospital (Spanish: Hospital del Niño DIF) and strategies used by parents to notice these changes in their children. The Zung Depression Scale was used as the measuring instrument to determine children's depressive symptoms and a parent questionnaire to know the strategies used to observe these emotional changes. A total of 24 patients diagnosed with cancer were included. It was found that 6 children had mild depression and 18 children with a normal range of depression. The main coping strategies of parents were distraction, reinforcement, detachment, avoidance, social support and activities. We observed a relatively low prevalence of mild depression in these patients and the strategies used were very heterogeneous.
Regulations of the Health Care System facing climate change in Mexico
Authors: López-Martínez Tania C.
Published: December 2017

Climate change poses a major challenge for all nations before the increasing alteration of the natural dynamics of the planet by human activities, since it has a social, economic and health impact on the population. It has been scientifically proven that climate change may originate and even make worse many diseases and health problems, this situation has led to take actions and implement public policies to address the issue in Mexico. This document presents a review of the legal and regulatory frameworks implemented by the Government of Mexico, focusing on the health care system to deal with the effects of climate change. This situation reveals the need to carry out more research on the subject, due to the wide variety of repercussions for the population’s health. To broaden the knowledge and the generation of scientific evidence, allows a better design of laws, strategies and programs before implementing policies in the country.
Cortisol, Stress and Diabetes: a Dangerous Relationship
Authors: Salame-Castro Aglaia G. , Guzmán-Saldaña Rebeca , Del Castillo-Arreola Arturo , Pineda-Sánchez José Esael , Paz-Bautista Juan Carlos
Published: December 2017

The human body secretes diabetogenic hormones such as cortisol in times of stress, a situation that is aggravated when there is already an undergoing pathology such as diabetes. Both stress and diabetes are important issues for public health, since each one puts the population’s quality of life at risk. This threatening scenario increases when both of them collude, becoming a dangerous combination that causes disease, a lack of metabolic control and early complications. This paper reviews the relationship between cortisol, stress, and diabetes, as well as how cortisol may function as a biological marker to reflect the activity of the corticotropic axis.
Gastric injury induced by Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs and therapeutic strategies for prevention
Authors: Pineda-Peña Elizabeth Arlen , Chávez-Piña Aracely Evangelina
Published: December 2017

The toxicity of gastrointestinal (GI) tract associated with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is an important medical and socio-economic problem. The coprescription of traditional gastroprotective drugs such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2-receptor antagonist, to reduce gastric acid secretion are the common clinical therapeutically approach. However, these strategies are not effectively to reduce gastrointestinal adverse events of NSAIDs and recently have demonstrated their low safety in long-term use. In the search for new therapeutically approach, the use of selective COX-2 inhibitors and the use of prostaglandin analogue in order to maintain the local prostaglandins was considered. Unfortunately, their adverse events in cardiovascular or renal system provoked that their therapeutic use were discarded. Therefore, the search for new therapeutic strategies has been promoted. The current experimental and preclinical approaches includes very promising alternatives such as H2S-NSAIDs, NO-NSAIDs and the possible use of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an Omega-3 Fatty acid. In this regard, DHA is focused in face the prostaglandin independent mechanism of NSAID-induce gastric injury such as increment of proinflammatory molecules expression and neutrophil–endothelial adherence. However, large studies of these therapeutically approaches are still needed.
Solanum melongena ve Solanum torvum’un türler arası melezlerinin morfolojik özellikleri
Authors: Çürük Sebahattin , Dayan Aygül
Published: December 2017

Solanum melongena (L.) ve Solanum torvum (Sw.) türlerinin
melezlenmesi sonucu oluşan birkaç interspesifik hibrit bitkinin kısır olduğu
rapor edilmiştir. Bu iki türün türler arası melezlerinin morfolojik
karakterizasyonu için az sayıda intrespesifik hibrit genotip incelenmiştir.
Çalışmada interspesifik genotiplerde morfolojik farklılığı belirlemek amacıyla,
Faselis F1 x S. torvum melezlenmesinden
elde edilen tohumların in vitro
ortamda çimlendirilmesiyle elde edilen 50-63 interspesifik hibrit genotip
incelenmiştir. Genotiplerin çoğunda, sürgünlerde antosiyanin oluşumu ve
bitkinin farklı organlarında dikenlilik görülmüştür. Genotiplerin yan dal sayıları 1 ve 7 arasında
değişmiştir. Yaprak uzunluğu, yaprak genişliği ve loblanma gözlemleri
açısından interspesifik
hibrit genotiplerin bir kısmı ana ebeveyne, bir kısmı baba ebeveyne yakın
olmuş, diğer bölümü ise iki ebeveyn arasında bir değer almıştır. Yaprak
altı tüylülüğü en az Faselis F1’de gözlenirken, interspesifik genotiplerdeki
tüylülük S. torvum’daki tüylülüğe
yakın olmuştur. Faselis
F1’in yapraklarında dikenlilik gözlenmezken, interspesifik hibritlerin hepsinde
dikenlilik gözlenmiştir. Çiçek
durumu, Faselis F1’de tek çiçek veya aynı yerden çıkmış tek çiçek ile basit
salkım şeklinde olurken, interspesifik hibrit genotiplerde genelde S. torvum’da olduğu gibi salkım şeklinde
olmuştur. Salkımdaki çiçek ve tomurcuk sayısı en az ana ebeveynde, en yüksek
bazı interspesifik hibrit genotiplerde gözlenmiştir. İnterspesifik
hibrit genotiplerde çanak ve taç yaprak sayısı ile erkek organ sayısı 3 ila 6
arasında değişmiştir. Taç yaprak rengi Faselis F1’de açık menekşe, S. torvum’da beyaz ve interspesifik
hibrit genotipte genelde soluk menekşe olmuştur. Erkek ve dişi organ uzunluğu
Faselis F1’de en yüksek, interspesifik hibrit genotiplerde S. torvum’dan daha düşük veya daha yüksek olarak gerçekleşmiştir.
Çankırı, Ilgaz Bölgesi Devrez Alt Havzası örneğinde peyzaj karakter alanlarının belirlenmesi
Authors: Tülek Betül , Atik Meryem
Published: December 2017

Peyzaj, bir arazi parçasının tanımlayıcı tüm
özellikleri olarak tanımlanmıştır. Avrupa Peyzaj Sözleşmesi ile doğal, yarı
doğal, kültürel peyzajların analizi, planlanması, yönetilmesi ve korunması
gerekliliği belirtilmiştir. Çankırı, Ilgaz Bölgesi doğal ormanları, koruma
alanları, tarihi ve kültürel varlıkları ile çok çeşitli doğal ve kültürel
peyzaj alan ve tipini bir arada bulundurmaktadır. Bölge Devrez alt havzası
ölçeğinde Hiyerarşik Kümeleme Analizi yöntemi kullanılarak
peyzaj karakter alan ve tipleri tanımlanmış ve bu alanların peyzaj planlamadaki
önemi değerlendirilerek alan kullanımına yönelik öneriler getirilmiştir.
Bölgesel ölçekli peyzaj planlama ve yönetimi çalışmalarında, havza düzeyinde,
bütüncül bir bakış açısıyla peyzaj karakter analizi çalışmaları entegre
edilmelidir. Ilgaz Bölgesi peyzaj karakter alanları ender coğrafik özellikleri
ile bölge peyzajlarının yönetimine ve korunmasında katkı sağlayacak karakterler
taşımaktadır.
Diagnostic accuracy of multi-detector row computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in assessment of mandibular involvement, cervical lymph node metastases and T parameter staging of squamous cell carcinomas of tongue and floor of mouth
Authors: Kumar Ravinder , Jaiswal Gagan , Kundu Jyoti
Published: December 2017

Background: Tongue and floor malignancies can be diagnosed based on biopsy and clinical examination, but diagnostic imaging is essential to confirm and define the size and extent of the disease.Objectives: The aim of this study was to recognise and understand the extent and precision of the diagnostic accuracy of multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in mandibular tumour involvement, cervical lymph node metastases, T staging of tongue and floor of mouth malignancies in order to represent the proper treatment plan.Methods: Fifty patients with histologically proven squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of tongue and floor of mouth malignancies underwent both multi-detector row computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging before surgery. Two radiologists independently, unaware of the findings, in consensus reviewed and interpreted all images to determine the extent of the primary tumour (T), mandibular tumour invasion and cervical lymph node metastasis. Imaging results obtained were correlated with postoperative histopathologic findings that represented our referencestandard. Cohen’s kappa index and McNemar test were used to verify the concordance between the two radiologists and above mentioned three study parameters.Results: Magnetic resonance imaging showed superiority to multi-detector row computed tomography in the evaluation of the T parameter staging of TNM classifi cation and medullary bone involvement while multi-detector row computed tomography was more accurate compared to magnetic resonance imaging in the visualization of small cortical bone erosions. However, both the modalities demonstrated similar diagnostic performance in detection of metastatic lymph nodes.Conclusion: Multi-detector row computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have nearly equal potential for detecting the tumour size, mandibular infiltration and nodal metastases.Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 5, No. 4, Issue 18, Oct.-Dec., 2016, page:104-111
Isolated intestinal ganglioneuromatosis - A rare entity
Authors: Laudari Uttam , Rupakheti Shail , Bohara Tanka Prasad , Joshi Mukunda Raj , Lakhey Mamta
Published: December 2017

Intestinal ganglioneuromatosis are rare benign tumour of ganglionic cell origin, most of them associated with neurofi bromatosis type I and multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIB. They are benign tumours with rare malignant transformation, have a varied clinical presentation and long indolent course. Surgical resection is the only modality of treatment and diagnosis is based on histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry. We report a case, 55 year old male who was diagnosed as a case of isolated intestinal ganglioneuromatosis, i.e no association with neurofibromatosis type I and multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIB. He is on regular follow up with normal daily activities and no evidence of recurrence.Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 5, No. 4, Issue 18, Oct.-Dec., 2016, Page: 131-135
Management of antiplatelet therapy in patients undergoing neuroendovascular procedures
Authors: Kim Keri S. , Fraser Justin F. , Grupke Stephen , Cook Aaron M.
Published: December 2017

Neuroendovascular techniques for treating cerebral aneurysms and other cerebrovascular pathology are increasingly becoming the standard of care. Intraluminal stents, aneurysm coils, and other flow diversion devices typically require concomitant antiplatelet therapy to reduce thromboembolic complications. The variability inherent with the pharmacodynamic response to common antiplatelet agents such as aspirin and clopidogrel complicates optimal selection of antiplatelet agents by clinicians. This review serves to discuss the literature related to antiplatelet use in neuroendovascular procedures and provides recommendations for clinicians on how to approach patients with variable response to antiplatelet agents, particularly clopidogrel.
Circumferential dural resection technique and reconstruction for the removal of giant calcified transdural herniated thoracic discs
Authors: Walker Corey T. , Kalani M. Yashar S. , Oppenlander Mark E. , Godzik Jakub , Martirosyan Nikolay L. , Standerfer Robert J. , Theodore Nicholas
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

The authors report a novel paradigm for resection of the disc or dural complex to treat giant calcified transdural herniated thoracic discs, and they describe a technique for the repair of dural defects. These herniated thoracic discs are uncommon, complicated lesions that often require a multidisciplinary team for effective treatment. The intradural component must be removed to effectively decompress the spinal cord. The opening of the friable dura mater, which frequently adheres to the extradural component of the disc, can result in large defects and difficult-to-manage CSF leaks.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective study of the technique and outcomes in patients with a transdural herniated disc treated at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center within a 4-year period between 2012 and 2015.

RESULTS

During the study period, 7 patients (mean age 56.1 years) presented to the department of neurosurgery with clinical symptoms consistent with myeloradiculopathy. In all cases, 2-level corpectomies of the involved levels were combined with circumferential resection of the dura and complete decompression of the spinal cord. The dural defect was repaired with an onlay dural patch, and a large piece of AlloDerm (LifeCell Corp) graft was sewn to close the pleural defect. Every patient had a perioperative lumbar drain placed for CSF diversion. No patient suffered neurological decline related to the surgery, and 3 patients experienced clinically significant improvement in function. Two patients developed an early postoperative CSF leak that required operative revision to oversew the defects.

CONCLUSIONS

This novel technique for decompression of the spinal cord by dural resection for the removal of giant calcified transdural herniated thoracic discs is safe and results in excellent decompression of the spinal cord. The technique becomes necessary when primary repair of the dura is not possible, and it can be used in cases in which the resection of pathology includes the dura.
Posterior inferior cerebellar artery with an extradural origin from the V3 segment: higher incidence on the nondominant vertebral artery
Authors: Isaji Taiki , Yasuda Muneyoshi , Kawaguchi Reo , Aoyama Masahiro , Niwa Aichi , Nakura Takahiro , Matsuo Naoki , Takayasu Masakazu
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

The posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) and the vertebral artery (VA) often exhibit anatomical variations at the craniovertebral junction (CVJ). An example of this is the PICA originating extradurally from the V3 segment of the VA. To date, some cadaveric investigations have been reported, but the incidence and relationship of this variation to the VA and the atlas as observed on clinical imaging have not been discussed. This study evaluated the prevalence of PICAs originating from the V3 on CT scanning. Other variations of the atlas and VA were also analyzed.

METHODS

CT images from a series of 153 patients who underwent 3D CT angiography (CTA) were analyzed, and variations of the PICA, VA, and atlas were investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 142 patients (284 sides) were analyzed; 11 patients (7.2%) were excluded due to poor image quality. The most common VA variation was the PICA originating from V3 (9.5% of 284 sides), which was more frequently observed on the nondominant VA than the dominant VA (22.5% vs 6.25%, p = 0.0005). A VA with a PICA end was identified in 4 sides (1.4%), which is the same incidence as observed in the persistent first intersegmental VA (1.4%). VA fenestration was only found in 1 side (0.35%). Regarding the atlas, ponticulus posticus was observed in 24 sides (8.5%). There was no relationship between the incidence of ponticulus posticus and the variations of the VA.

CONCLUSIONS

A PICA originating from V3 was the most common VA variation at the CVJ and was more common on the nondominant VA. Three-dimensional CTA is useful for the evaluation of this variance. Surgeons should be mindful of this variation during operations.
Electrocorticography and the early maturation of high-frequency suppression within the default mode network
Authors: Weaver Kurt E. , Poliakov Andrew , Novotny Edward J. , Olson Jared D. , Grabowski Thomas J. , Ojemann Jeffrey G.
Published: December 2017

OBJECTIVE

The acquisition and refinement of cognitive and behavioral skills during development is associated with the maturation of various brain oscillatory activities. Most developmental investigations have identified distinct patterns of low-frequency electrophysiological activity that are characteristic of various behavioral milestones. In this investigation, the authors focused on the cross-sectional developmental properties of high-frequency spectral power from the brain’s default mode network (DMN) during goal-directed behavior.

METHODS

The authors contrasted regionally specific, time-evolving high gamma power (HGP) in the lateral DMN cortex between 3 young children (age range 3–6 years) and 3 adults by use of electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings over the left perisylvian cortex during a picture-naming task.

RESULTS

Across all participants, a nearly identical and consistent response suppression of HGP, which is a functional signature of the DMN, was observed during task performance recordings acquired from ECoG electrodes placed over the lateral DMN cortex. This finding provides evidence of relatively early maturation of the DMN. Furthermore, only HGP relative to evoked alpha and beta band power showed this level of consistency across all participants.

CONCLUSIONS

Regionally specific, task-evoked suppression of the high-frequency components of the cortical power spectrum is established early in brain development, and this response may reflect the early maturation of specific cognitive and/or computational mechanisms.
Oil and Emerging Conflict Dynamics in the Ateker Cluster: The Case of Turkana, Kenya
Authors: Agade Kennedy Mkutu
Published: December 2017

Resource wealth is linked to conflict, particularly where institutions are weak. This may occur through a number of mechanisms, including grievances of communities over inequality and threatened livelihoods, exacerbated by resource extraction. This article looks at the early stages of oil exploration moving towards extraction in Turkana county, Kenya, which is part of the wider conflict-prone pastoralist Ateker cluster. It argues that resource extraction is already a source of conflict on several levels in the county and could, together with other factors, potentiate armed conflict or crime and violence on a larger scale. Moreover, the livelihood needs of pastoralists is a crucial recurring theme throughout.
Applying Goldratt’s thinking processes to prevent mistakes
Authors: Cox III James F. , Robinson Emily Grace
Published: December 2017

A wise person learns from others’ mistakes. Mistakes are common even though most are preventable! Serious mistakes occur in business, government, and even in personal lives. Frequently mistakes are caused by not recognizing the situation, environment or system (referred to as system hereafter). The tendency is to hide or dismiss mistakes. That in itself is a mistake! Many times, by examining system causalities, actions can be planned and taken to either prevent the mistake or to reduce its impact. Two types of common mistakes to thinking clearly (defined as recognizing the system causalities) are identified and studied: 1.the proposed action does not solve the system problem; 2. the proposed action solves the system problem but causes some unintended serious negative consequences. Eliyahu M. Goldratt developed the theory of constraints (TOC) thinking processes (TP) to apply the scientific method to solving business problems. Rather than select a personal or business problem, since science is based on causality within reality, three major scientific activities, inference (type 1 mistake), observation (type 2 mistake), and prediction (types 1 and 2 mistake prevention) are used to provide a tutorial on the TP and its use in addressing these types of mistakes.
Early Detection and Intervention of ASD: A European Overview
Authors: Magán-Maganto María , Bejarano-Martín Álvaro , Fernández-Alvarez Clara , Narzisi Antonio , García-Primo Patricia , Kawa Rafal , Posada Manuel , Canal-Bedia Ricardo
Published: December 2017

Over the last several years there has been an increasing focus on early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), not only from the scientific field but also from professional associations and public health systems all across Europe. Not surprisingly, in order to offer better services and quality of life for both children with ASD and their families, different screening procedures and tools have been developed for early assessment and intervention. However, current evidence is needed for healthcare providers and policy makers to be able to implement specific measures and increase autism awareness in European communities. The general aim of this review is to address the latest and most relevant issues related to early detection and treatments. The specific objectives are (1) analyse the impact, describing advantages and drawbacks, of screening procedures based on standardized tests, surveillance programmes, or other observational measures; and (2) provide a European framework of early intervention programmes and practices and what has been learnt from implementing them in public or private settings. This analysis is then discussed and best practices are suggested to help professionals, health systems and policy makers to improve their local procedures or to develop new proposals for early detection and intervention programmes.
Recent Advances in Transition-Metal-Mediated Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction: From Homogeneous to Heterogeneous Systems
Authors: Feng Da-Ming , Zhu Yun-Pei , Chen Ping , Ma Tian-Yi
Published: December 2017

Global climate change and increasing demands for clean energy have brought intensive interest in the search for proper electrocatalysts in order to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) to higher value carbon products such as hydrocarbons. Recently, transition-metal-centered molecules or organic frameworks have been reported to show outstanding electrocatalytic activity in the liquid phase. Their d-orbital electrons are believed to be one of the key factors to capture and convert CO2 molecules to value-added low-carbon fuels. In this review, recent advances in electrocatalytic CO2 reduction have been summarized based on the targeted products, ranging from homogeneous reactions to heterogeneous ones. Their advantages and fallbacks have been pointed out and the existing challenges, especially with respect to the practical and industrial application are addressed.
A Comparative Study of Energy Performance of Fumed Silica Vacuum Insulation Panels in an Apartment Building
Authors: Lim Taesub , Seok Jaewang , Kim Daeung
Published: December 2017

Building insulation materials has a significant impact on building energy consumptions. However, conventional materials are easily flammable and can cause fire disasters in buildings. Therefore, it is important to select appropriate insulation materials for building energy efficiency and safety and Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIPs) are increasingly applied to building insulation. Considering this, the present study investigates energy performance of VIPs with design alternatives, such as window systems, infiltration rates, etc., by using energy simulation. Among various VIPs, fumes silica VIPs were chosen. In addition, eight combinations were compared to find the best energy efficient design conditions. The results of the present study showed that building energy performance can be improved with an appropriate combination of design options including fumed silica VIPs.
Genetic Diversity and Its Spatial Distribution in Self-Regenerating Norway Spruce and Scots Pine Stands
Authors: Verbylaitė Rita , Pliūra Alfas , Lygis Vaidotas , Suchockas Vytautas , Jankauskienė Jurga , Labokas Juozas
Published: December 2017

Tree genetic diversity is among the most important factors determining the sustainability of forest ecosystems. The main aim of the present study was to track possible changes in genetic diversity of regenerating populations of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) in areas subjected either to a natural disturbance (windthrows and subsequent clear-cutting of the affected spruce stand) or to a changed land-use legacy (pine regeneration on abandoned agricultural land) with the aim of testing whether the new forest generation retains the genetic diversity of the putative maternal stand. Eight highly polymorphic microsatellite loci were used to reveal the genetic diversity and its spatial distribution in the studied tree populations. Self-regenerating juveniles of Norway spruce and Scots pine were spatially random and as genetically diverse as in the putative maternal populations. Genetic differentiation between putatively maternal trees and regenerating juveniles was low for both species. A high genetic diversity and random spatial genetic structure revealed in the regenerating populations provides a basis for the formation of evolutionary and ecologically sound stands able to adapt to ever-changing climatic conditions. Information on the genetic dynamics of the studied natural populations of long-lived coniferous tree species may be important for evaluating possible changes in genetic diversity at a local scale following forest ecosystem disturbances and changes in land-use legacies.
Nutrition in the First 1000 Days: Ten Practices to Minimize Obesity Emerging from Published Science
Authors: Pietrobelli Angelo , Agosti Massimo ,   The MeNu Group
Published: December 2017

The prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity has increased in most countries the last decades. Considering this in a simplistic way, we can say that obesity is the result of an imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. Moreover, the environment from conception to childhood could influence the child’s future health. The first 1000 days of life start with woman’s pregnancy, and offer a unique window of opportunity to contribute to obesity prevention. In light of the actual literature, the aim of our article is to discuss a proposal of 10 good practices to minimize obesity in the first 1000 days emerging from published science. (1) Both the mother’s and the father’s behaviors are important. A balanced diet with appropriate fat and protein intake, and favoring fruits and vegetables, is recommended for both parents during the conception period and pregnancy. Furthermore, overweight/obese women who are planning to become pregnant should reduce their weight before conception. (2) During pregnancy, at birth, and during early life, body composition measurements are crucial to monitor the baby’s growth. (3) Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended at the beginning of life until six months of age. (4) Four to six months of age is the optimal window to introduce complementary feeding. Until one year of age, breast milk or follow-on/commercial formula is the main recommended feeding source, and cow’s milk should be avoided until one year of age. (5) Fruit and vegetable introduction should begin early. Daily variety, diversity in a meal, and repeated exposure to the food, up to eight times, are efficient strategies to increase acceptance of food not well accepted at first. There is no need to add sugar, salt, or sugary fluids to the diet. (6) Respect the child’s appetite and avoid coercive “clean your plate” feeding practices. Adapt the portion of food and don’t use food as reward for good behavior. (7) Limit animal protein intake in early life to reduce the risk of an early adiposity rebound. Growing-up milk for children between one and three years of age should be preferred to cow’s milk, in order to limit intake and meet essential fatty acid and iron needs. (8) The intake of adequate fat containing essential fatty acids should be promoted. (9) Parents should be role models when feeding, with TV and other screens turned-off during meals. (10) Preventive interventions consisting of promoting physical activity and sufficient time dedicated to sleep should be employed. In fact, short sleep duration may be associated with increased risk of developing obesity. Based on literature reviews, and given the suggestions described in this manuscript, concerted public health efforts are needed to achieve the healthy objectives for obesity and nutrition, and to fight the childhood obesity epidemic.
Implementing Data-Dependent Triangulations with Higher Order Delaunay Triangulations
Authors: Rodríguez Natalia , Silveira Rodrigo
Published: December 2017

The Delaunay triangulation is the standard choice for building triangulated irregular networks (TINs) to represent terrain surfaces. However, the Delaunay triangulation is based only on the 2D coordinates of the data points, ignoring their elevation. This can affect the quality of the approximating surface. In fact, it has long been recognized that sometimes it may be beneficial to use other, non-Delaunay, criteria that take elevation into account to build TINs. Data-dependent triangulations were introduced decades ago to address this exact issue. However, data-dependent trianguations are rarely used in practice, mostly because the optimization of data-dependent criteria often results in triangulations with many slivers (i.e., thin and elongated triangles), which can cause several types of problems. More recently, in the field of computational geometry, higher order Delaunay triangulations (HODTs) were introduced, trying to tackle both issues at the same time—data-dependent criteria and good triangle shape—by combining data-dependent criteria with a relaxation of the Delaunay criterion. In this paper, we present the first extensive experimental study on the practical use of HODTs, as a tool to build data-dependent TINs. We present experiments with two USGS 30m digital elevation models that show that the use of HODTs can give significant improvements over the Delaunay triangulation for the criteria previously identified as most important for data-dependent triangulations, often with only a minor increase in running times. The triangulations produced have measure values comparable to those obtained with pure data-dependent approaches, without compromising the shape of the triangles, and can be computed much faster.
Impaired Osteogenesis of Disease-Specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Derived from a CFC Syndrome Patient
Authors: Choi Jung-Yun , Han Kyu-Min , Kim Dongkyu , Lee Beom-Hee , Yoo Han-Wook , Choi Jin-Ho , Han Yong-Mahn
Published: December 2017

Cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC) syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. However, little is known about how aberrant ERK signaling is associated with the defective bone development manifested in most CFC syndrome patients. In this study, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were generated from dermal fibroblasts of a CFC syndrome patient having rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma kinase B (BRAF) gain-of-function mutation. CFC-iPSCs were differentiated into mesenchymal stem cells (CFC-MSCs) and further induced to osteoblasts in vitro. The osteogenic defects of CFC-MSCs were revealed by alkaline phosphatase activity assay, mineralization assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and western blotting. Osteogenesis of CFC-MSCs was attenuated compared to wild-type (WT)-MSCs. In addition to activated ERK signaling, increased p-SMAD2 and decreased p-SMAD1 were observed in CFC-MSCs during osteogenesis. The defective osteogenesis of CFC-MSCs was rescued by inhibition of ERK signaling and SMAD2 signaling or activation of SMAD1 signaling. Importantly, activation of ERK signaling and SMAD2 signaling or inhibition of SMAD1 signaling recapitulated the impaired osteogenesis in WT-MSCs. Our findings indicate that SMAD2 signaling and SMAD1 signaling as well as ERK signaling are responsible for defective early bone development in CFC syndrome, providing a novel insight on the pathological mechanism and therapeutic targets.
Modified Hermite Pulse-Based Wideband Communication for High-Speed Data Transfer in Wireless Sensor Applications
Authors: Pradhan Kushal , Li Yang-Guo , Arifuzzman A. , Haider Mohammad
Published: December 2017

With technological advances in the field of communication, the need for reliable high-speed data transfer is increasing. The deployment of large number of wireless sensors for remote monitoring and control and streaming of high definition video, voice and image data, etc. are imposing a challenge to the existing network bandwidth allocation for reliable communication. Two novel schemes for ultra-wide band (UWB) communication technology have been proposed in this paper with the key objective of intensifying the data rate by taking advantage of the orthogonal properties of the modified Hermite pulse (MHP). In the first scheme, a composite pulse is transmitted and in the second scheme, a sequence of multi-order orthogonal pulses is transmitted in the place of a single UWB pulse. The MHP pulses exhibit a mutually orthogonal property between different ordered pulses and due to this property, simultaneous transmission is achieved without collision in the UWB system, resulting in an increase in transmission capacity or improved bit error rate. The proposed schemes for enhanced data rate will offer high volume data monitoring, assessment, and control of wireless devices without overburdening the network bandwidth and pave the way for new platforms for future high-speed wireless sensor applications.
Correction: Benková, Z.; et al. Structural Behavior of a Semiflexible Polymer Chain in an Array of Nanoposts Polymers 2017, 9, 313
Authors: Benková Zuzana , Rišpanová Lucia , Cifra Peter
Published: December 2017

There was a mistake in the original code evaluating the occupation number of polymers [...]
Polymorphism Analysis of Ch1 and Ch2 Genes in the Siberian Cat
Authors: Sartore Stefano , Landoni Eleonora , Maione Sandra , Tarducci Alberto , Borrelli Antonio , Soglia Dominga , Rasero Roberto , Sacchi Paola
Published: December 2017

Cats are usually spreaders of allergens that are critical for sensitive people; the Siberian cat is a breed supposed to be low level allergenic, according to some breeders’ statements. The sequence of the two genes, namely Ch1 and Ch2, that code for the allergen Fel d 1, the major allergen responsible for outbreaks of allergy symptoms, is not yet known in the Siberian cat, and finding this was the aim of our investigation. Notably, our work is the first survey of the genetic structure of these genes in Siberian cats. The comparison of the sequences of Siberian cats, non-Siberian cats, and sequences present in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database revealed a considerable number of mutations; some of those detected in the Siberian cat, due to their position in exon regions, could affect the Fel d 1 allergenic properties. Therefore, further investigations are recommended to assess if the identified mutations can be responsible for a reduced-allergen synthesis and can be used as markers for selection of low level allergenic cats.
Dynamics of gaps, vegetation, and plant species with and without fire
Authors: Menges Eric S. , Crate Sarah J. H. , Quintana‐Ascencio Pedro F.
Published: December 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Areas lacking dominant plants, or gaps, can support high diversity and specialist species. Previous chronosequence research in Florida rosemary scrub showed indistinct gap area patterns with fire and the dependence of certain species on gaps. We hypothesized that fire and gap size would affect extinction, colonization, diversity, and vegetation composition.

METHODS:

In 2011–12, we revisited gaps first sampled in 2003, recording vascular plant and ground lichen occurrence by species, gap area, and burn history. We analyzed gap, vegetation, and species dynamics using linear mixed models, with Florida rosemary scrub patch as a random factor.

KEY RESULTS:

Gap areas declined quickly during the first 10 yr postfire and then stabilized. Between 2003 and 2011–12, unburned gaps usually remained extant or split, whereas burned gaps usually merged. Unburned gaps tended to shrink, whereas burned gaps became larger. Species richness was positively related to gap area, fire, and their interaction. Over time, richness declined in unburned gaps and increased in burned gaps. Local extinction and colonization of individual species were related to fire between 2003 and 2011–12. In burned gaps, ground lichens disappeared, but many herbaceous species, including those killed by fire, increased occupancy. Colonization of most species was favored by burning, large gaps, or both.

CONCLUSIONS:

In Florida rosemary scrub, fire and increasing gap size increased species richness and many individual species occurrences, reduced local extinctions, and increased colonizations. Therefore, land management activities that encourage the creation and maintenance of large gaps will promote biodiversity in this system.
THE METHOD FOR EVALUATION OF EFFICIENCY OF THE CONCEPT OF CENTRALLY MANAGED DISTRIBUTION IN CITIES
Authors: Wasiak Mariusz , Jacyna Marianna , Lewczuk Konrad , Szczepański Emilian
Published: December 2017

The paper describes proecological solution dedicated for organizing logistics services in urban areas. Proposed solution is based on cross-docking processes combined with consolidation centres. Authors proposed new method of estimating economic and social benefits from implementing centrally managed cooperation of logistics operators using common city consolidation hubs. Developed mathematical model bases on Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) with vehicles of different types, limited loading capacities and multiply depots characterized by limited throughput. Proposed approach was supported by case study of integration of distribution processes in Warsaw (Poland) performed by three medium-size logistics operators. The central management of distribution was investigated in variants assuming using existing warehouses and with new configuration of logistics network developed with using SIMMAG 3D tools. As it was proved for analysed case, total costs of distribution in the city after implementation of centrally managed distribution were reduced by 8.1% for variant with current depots and by 26.5% for variant with new logistics network, while emission of carbon monoxide (CO) was reduced respectively by 7.8 and 16.7%.