bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Puzzle game development as a learning media in learning outcomes of building construction basics
Authors: Abdulah T , Widaningsih L , Minggra R
Published: May 2020

The use of learning media in Building Construction Basics subject at SMKN 1 Sumedang were still not varied, it caused student learning outcomes to be not optimal. The researcher made alternative learning media that could encourage students’ interest in the learning process. This research was aimed to design, find out, and implement learning media in the Basic Competence of Brick Installation Procedures. Learning media designed was puzzle as educational game with problem solving work technique and memory reinforcement. The research and development method were employed in developing the learning media. A purposive sampling technique was conveyed in order to collect the data with the participants of this research were 31 tenth grade students in DPIB 3 class of SMKN 1 Sumedang. This research showed that learning media were suitable to use after being validated by media experts and material experts. The students were more enthusiastic and respond positively to the use of learning media with puzzle games because it could help them to learn independently. The student learning outcomes showed the improvement both before and after using this learning media. Thus, the use of puzzle as a learning media were in the good and suitable category as an alternative media that could help the learning process and the students were able to use the puzzle well in the Basics of Building Construction subject at SMKN 1 Sumedang.
The assessment instrument product of macrame technique in textile craft course
Authors: Marlina M
Published: May 2020

The assessment instrument product of macrame technique in textile craft courses is an instrument that is arranged systematically to determine product accuracy based on established criteria and indicators. The purpose of this study was to make a assessment instrument for evaluating macrame technique products in textile craft courses that can be used as a reference by educators in assessing student work in the form products of macrame technique. Quantitative research methods with research and development (R&D) models through preliminary study stages, the design products of macrame technique, production and manufacturing of macrame product valuation tools, validation, revision, and analysis. The results of the validation stage products of macrame technique valuation the assessment instrument show that the “Very Eligible” is used, judging by the evaluation given by the evaluation experts and material experts with an average percentage given of 100% of the evaluation experts and 98, 21% of material experts include six indicators, namely types of macrame motifs, function of macrame products, design elements, design principles, use of materials, and completion techniques. The assessment instrument product of macrame technique that have been made can be used as a reference in assessing student work in the form product of macrame technique.
Feasibility and prospective analysis of logistics engineering study program as the demands of the digital business era
Authors: Masri R M , Purwaamijaya I M , Purwaamijaya B M
Published: May 2020

The rapid development of information and communication technology will deliver the public to the changing era, including in the business industry. The global community is currently in a transition towards digital society which is characterized by intensive use of science, technology and humanities, integrated infrastructure that demands human resources to be able to creative and innovative in order to face the demands in the digital business era. The existence of these changes affect global trends in logistics business practices in the industry, including by the movement towards free markets and regional cooperation to expand markets. Market expectations also change as global competition in products and services pushes for higher standards, lower costs and increasingly diverse choices of customers in the market. Research is needed with a comprehensive qualitative approach, mechanism, and exploration of needs to be anticipated by university to become a center of excellence and contribute to the real world by producing human resources that have strong character and integrity accompanied by the ability to innovate and utilize their digital knowledge to be able to work and win competitions in the global business industry, both as practitioners and academics, one of them is by opening a logistics engineering study program by focusing on e-logistics that suits market needs.
Ionic liquids in chemistry teacher education: An interactive simulation on their fundamental structure-property relationships
Authors: Mudzakir A , Liliasari L , Hernani H , Widhiyanti T , Sarifudin A
Published: May 2020

This research was conducted to reconstruct the activities of technochemistry education through interactive simulations of the relationship between structure of ionic liquids with their physico-chemical properties. This simulation was constructed to enhance the chemistry teacher students’ ability of the view of the nature of science and technology (VNoST). Ionic liquids were chosen as a technochemistry model because in this materials; the structure, properties and their performance can be connected to one another easily and attractively. By engineering its cation and anion structure, the properties of ionic liquids can be adjusted (tailored-made materials) to the needs of the engineer. Technochemistry education views education from the perspective of engineers and scientists who work not only on inquiry, but also on the perspective of engineering and design. The research was conducted to overcome the problem of the low performance of Indonesian students’ scientific literacy as revealed in the PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) study from 2000-2015. The weak performance of scientific literacy of students can be caused by weak understanding of the teacher of the nature of science and technology or View of Nature of Science and Technology (VNoST), a core component of scientific literacy. Reconstruction of technochemistry education activities carried out is directed to produce interactive simulation software for the engineering of ionic liquids structures. The method used in this research is Research and Development (R&D) through the Model of Educational Reconstruction (MER). The first stage is analyzing, clarifying, and reconstructing the structure of scientific content (scientific explanation) into a content structure suitable for learning (pedagogical explanation). The next stage of analysis studies related to students’ pre-conceptions on the reconstructed topic. In the final stage, the teaching-learning process is implemented using the software produced and reflects the results of the implementation for the improvement process through a quasi-experimental study. Based on the results of the implementation, this interactive simulation has the potential to enhance students’ VNoST abilities. This is indicated by the more students who have the Realist category in six of the eight questions on the existing VNOST aspects.
Digitizing Project-Based Learning in engineering education
Authors: Latifah L , Maknun J , Mardiana R
Published: May 2020

Students tend to be not explorative in solving their assignment. Improper learning system is one of several factors that probably be the cause of this problem. This research aims to analyze students’ problem solving abilities through the implementation of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) on Construction and Building Utilities subject. The research design is Quasi-Experimental Design with the type of Two-Group Posttest Only research. The population of this research is the students of XI DPIB in SMKN 9 Garut 2018/2019. The experimental class students use PjBL while the control class students use expository learning. Data analysis is obtained from students’ problem solving abilities test and observation results. The students’ problem solving abilities scores are calculated based on four steps of Polya’s problem solving theory, first is understanding the problem, second is planning how to solve the problem, third is calculating, and fourth is checking the result. The analysis result shows that the experimental class students have better problem solving abilities than the control class students. In addition, the experimental class students are more active and communicative in the class. According to problem solving ability test and observation results, PjBL is quite effective to be implemented on Construction and Building Utilities subject.
Design computer laboratory friendly for disabilities
Authors: Sukriman S , Sumarto S , Abdullah A G
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study is as a preliminary study to determine the availability of computer laboratory facilities and computer laboratory designs available at vocational high schools whether they have understood the students with physical disabilities, then from the findings obtained will be made a computer laboratory building design that is friendly to students people with disabilities. Data collection uses observation and semi-structured interviews. The researcher interviewed several teachers in vocational high schools to explore information about the availability of facilities and supporting infrastructure in schools for people with physical disabilities especially in computer laboratories. The researcher also interviewed two special school teachers to explore information about the needs of facilities and infrastructure for people with physical disabilities, their experiences while observing and doing activities with students with disabilities. The results of this study indicate the unavailability of friendly infrastructure facilities for people with disabilities, especially computer laboratories in vocational high schools, also found several barriers and expectations about the future design of computer laboratories. The conclusion from this study recommends that schools make improvements and additions to facilities that support students with disabilities, especially those who have physical disabilities, so that they can carry out activities like normal students when accessing facilities and infrastructure at school.
The utilization of remote sensing technology
Authors: Yavis D , Widiaty I
Published: May 2020

Remote Sensing was introduced at the vocational school of Geomatics Engineering in 2013. Remote sensing is the science and technology relating to search information about an object without direct contact with the object. The purpose of this paper is to review research related to remote sensing in the last 5 years. Search results show that the scope of remote sensing topics includes (1) Environmental monitoring such as mapping mangrove forest carbon stocks, detection and monitoring of vegetation affected by oil spills (2) Interpreting land cover and change for paddy modeling, road detection and settlement quality (3) Mitigation and monitoring of natural disasters; Forest fire, Mapping flood areas and affected flooding (4) Identification of natural resources; copper mining, mapping ground water prospective (5) Plant identification; determination of species, identification of agricultural crops, etc. The images used are Landsat imagery, AQUA / TERRA, and others. The obstacle in this research is the storage of data that has a large volume. By reviewing the aspects studied there is a cheaper and more efficient way to improve the quality of objects. The conclusion from the search results is this review will be able to enrich the treasures of knowledge in remote sensing technology learning in Geomatics Engineering, especially with related to enrich learning content.
Assimilate of work competencies standard into learning outcomes standard to face the G-4.0 era
Authors: Handayani P , Putro T Y
Published: May 2020

Competences of students which collected in the last three years from industries during they conducted internship showed that they have good basic technical knowledge and skills, but work ethic should be improved. This research aims to develop learning process and assessment model to assimilate the work competences standard into learning outcomes. It has taken case study in the Electronic Study Program in Politeknik Negeri Bandung (Polban). Data collected by qualitative approach to find the appropriate learning condition in the workplace that can adopted into learning process and assessment in the campus. This research reveal that work competences cannot be built only by introducing work knowledge at the laboratory, but the students must be directly involved in work situation included assessment of work product and their performed in the end of the work even though it is done in the laboratory. This model could shift “way of thinking and learning of students” so that they more ready to face the world of work than before. Works assignment plays the main role in this case
Low-cost bending test laboratory kit
Authors: Mukarramah S K , Abdullah A G , Sumarto S
Published: May 2020

The big dimension and higher price of conventional bending test machine is making the school and start-up company hard to fulfilled. This study aims to demonstrate a new design of a low-cost and portable laboratory kit that is prospective for bending test. The kit is using hydraulic pressure tools with maximal capacity is about 6 tons. Economic analysis and smaller dimension of this kit (length x width x height of 700x100x750 mm) Showed that this kit is a low-cost and adaptable to classroom and easy to assemble for school. The different between another modification before bending test kit is on the pedestal and the suppressor of the kit is the which is allowing the machine to test materials with Thicker dimensions. The test result Obtained by calculating the maximum compressive force, moment of cross section innersia, flexural strength and elastic modulus of speciment. The result Also Compared with another test material from bending test machine with the American society of testing and materials (ASTM) standard and Showed that there is not much different in the test result for both. Further development of this kit is Potentially implemented an as an experimental tool for the student.
Improving the ability of entrepreneurs to use alternative learning models in the automotive field
Authors: Ridho R , Abdullah A G
Published: May 2020

Entrepreneurial activity is believed to be a tool to encourage economic growth and to solve other economic problems such as unemployment. Entrepreneurship has been widely applied in schools, especially in vocational schools that aim to produce graduates so they can work and be entrepreneurs. There are many learning models that exist in vocational schools at this time, but the learning model does not have an impact on students to have a soul or desire to become entrepreneurs. Therefore, we have conducted a literature review to explain an alternative learning model, which is a self-designed project learning model that is expected to trigger students to become entrepreneurs. A systematic mapping study is used as a basic method for conducting literature reviews. Various relevant journals, which are learning models that can enhance one’s entrepreneurship from various circles, were selected by researchers as preliminary data for a literature review. The various learning models that currently exist do not have enough impact to foster a sense of entrepreneurship in students, whereas learning in SMK should every productive learning must make students master and can make students have a sense of entrepreneurship when learning has ended. In this study describes a self-designed project learning model that will be applied in the automotive field in light vehicle engine tune-up subjects. This alternative learning model has been used by other studies, the researcher applies this alternative learning model in the field of machining that produces an impact on students, i.e. students can increase or make it have the desire to become entrepreneurs.
Development of Cyber-Physical System (CPS) implementation in industry 4.0
Authors: Afrizal A , Mulyanti B , Widiaty I
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study is to analyze the concept of a cyber-physical system (CPS). The current industry applied it. The method used in making this paper is a systematic literature review. From the results of the literature study, the author founded that CPS is a management model in industry 4.0 that applies the principle of integration of cyber-physical and cyber humans. Cyber human systems (CHS) can provide information feedback at every level because social workers have inherent intelligence, which can be exploited naturally for self-adaptation, corrective, and preventive actions. The CHS configuration level serves as a supervisory control so that decisions made at the level of cognition can be applied, and human workers follow corrective and adaptive measures. As an implication, the role of humans is still vital in industry 4.0.
Additive manufacturing in education
Authors: Ramdhani F F , Mulyanti B
Published: May 2020

Additive manufacturing, or better known as 3D printing today is one technology that is rapidly growing in several countries. This technology is increasingly having an important role not only in business and everyday products, but in the world of education. 3D printer technology can be a medium of learning in the world of education in the implementation of the design in 2D and 3D design drawing students majoring in mechanical engineering. Therefore, research is needed to understand the use of new technologies in education. The purpose of this study was to analyze and gather information about the latest technology used by 3D printing. This research method using a literature review journals in the last 5 years. Findings from the literature review indicates the type of the latest technology used in 3D printing in manufacturing system design using computer-aided design (CAD). Overall, this review could be further research in instructional media in vocational education.
Enhancing student learning achievement using competency-based modules on basic competencies examining the characteristics of refrigerants and lubricating oils
Authors: Suherman A , Wiyono A , Yayat Y , Negara R M H K , Berman E T
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the increase in student achievement using competency-based modules. The study was conducted on the subject of system and the installation of refrigeration with basic competencies examining the characteristics of refrigerants and lubricating oils. This study uses quasi-experimental research methods. Participants in this study were 60 students from the vocational high school in Bandung. The research instrument used was a test, which consisted of pre-test and post-test. Improved student achievement was analyzed using the concept of normalized gain (N-gain) based on pre test and post test score data. The results showed the use of competency-based modules can improve student learning achievement. The achievement of the post test scores of the experimental class students above the minimum completion criteria with an average post test score of 89.39, while the score of the control class was 72.42. Based on the N-Gain value there are differences between the experimental class and the control class which are 79.5 and 46.94, respectively. The use of competency-based modules has implications for improving student achievement to be more optimal. The content of interesting module materials can increase student motivation and activity in learning in the classroom.
Study of students’ experiences of air conditioning practices in vocational education
Authors: Berman E T , Hamidah I , Mulyanti B , Setiawan A
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study is to determine the experience of students doing air conditioning practicum in vocational education. Practicum activities which are the focus of this research are practicum objectives, preparation of practicum, conditions and number of practicum tools, practicum time, practicum implementation process, competence of lecturers and laboratory assistants, and practicum evaluations. This study used a qualitative method with research participants being students in the refrigeration and air conditioning expertise at a state university in Bandung. The informants involved in this study were seven students who had carried out the air conditioning practicum for in-depth interviews. The FGD (focus group discussion) interview method is used to get general information and individual interviews to get more specific data. The results of this study are expected to provide accurate information about the practicability of student practicum so that better improvements can be made in the future. The implementation of an ideal practicum will support students to develop hands-on and minds-on.
Convergent nitrogen–phosphorus scaling relationships in different plant organs along an elevational gradient
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Wang Mantang , Li Man , Sun Jun , Lyu Min , Zhong Quanlin , Cheng Dongliang
Published: May 2020

A general relationship between the nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content of all plant organs (e.g. leaf, stem, and root) is hypothesized to exist according to whole-plant economics spectrum (PES) theory, but the evidence supporting these expected patterns remains scarce. We measured the N and P content of the leaves, twigs and fine roots of 64 species in three different forest communities along an elevational gradient (evergreen broad-leaved forest, 1319 m a.s.l., coniferous and broad-leaved mixed forest, 1697 m a.s.l., and deciduous forest, 1818 m a.s.l.) in the Wuyishan National Nature Reserve, southeastern China. The scaling relationship between the N and P content and the linear regression relationship between the N:P ratio and N and P content were analysed. The leaf N and P content was significantly higher at the high-elevation site than at the low- or middle-elevation sites (P < 0.001). The N and P content followed a power-law relationship with similar scaling slopes between organs. The N (common slope, 1.13) and P (common slope, 1.03) content isometrically covaried among leaves, twigs and roots. The scaling exponents of the N–P relationship were not significantly different from 1.0 in all organs, with a common slope of 1.08. The scaling constants of N–P decreased significantly (P < 0.05) from the highest value in fine roots (β = 1.25), followed by leaves (β = 1.17), to the lowest value in twigs (β = 0.88). Standardized major axis (SMA) analyses and comparisons of 95 % confidence intervals also showed that the numerical values of the scaling slopes and the scaling constants did not differ regardless of elevation. The N content, but not the P content, accounted for a large proportion of the variation in the N:P ratio in leaves (N:P and N: r2 = 0.31, F = 33.36, P < 0.001) and fine roots (N:P and N: r2 = 0.15, F = 10.65, P < 0.05). In contrast, the N:P ratio was significantly related to both the N and P content in the twigs (N:P and N: r2 = 0.20, F = 17.86, P < 0.001; N:P and P: r2 = 0.34, F = 35.03, P < 0.001, respectively). Our results indicate that different organs of subtropical woody plants share a similar isometric scaling relationship between their N and P content, providing partial support for the PES hypothesis. Moreover, the effects of the N and P content on the N:P ratio differ between metabolic organs (leaves and fine roots) and structural organs (twigs), elucidating the stoichiometric regulatory mechanism of different organs.
Kidney transplantation outcomes from elderly donors after circulatory death: a comparison with elderly brain-dead donors
Authors: Buxeda Anna , Velis Gonzalo , Arias-Cabrales Carlos , Zapatero Ana , Burballa Carla , Redondo-Pachón Dolores , Mir Marisa , Crespo Marta , Pascual Julio , Pérez-Sáez María José
Published: May 2020

Background

The use of kidneys from elderly controlled donation after circulatory death (cDCD) donors has increased significantly in recent years. Concerns about outcomes achieved with these elderly cDCD kidneys have arisen. We aimed to compare outcomes from elderly cDCD kidney transplant recipients (KTrs) and elderly donation after brain death donors (DBDs) in KTrs.

Methods

We conducted a single-centre retrospective study including 87 cDCD-KTrs (46 from donors ≥65 years of age and 41 from <65 years) and 126 DBD-KTrs from donors ≥65 years of age from 2013 through 2017). Young cDCD-KTrs were used as controls. The median follow-up was 27.1 months for all cDCD-KTrs and 29.7 months for DBD-KTrs ≥65 years of age.

Results

Donors >65 years of age represented more than half of our global cDCD cohort (52.9%). KTs from elderly cDCDs had similar rates of delayed graft function, primary non-function and vascular complications compared with young cDCD-KTrs and elderly DBD-KTrs. Short and medium-term graft survival from elderly cDCD kidneys are excellent and are comparable to those from young cDCD and elderly DBD kidneys (90% young cDCD versus 88% elderly cDCD versus 80% elderly DBD at 36 months, P = 0.962 and 0.180, respectively). Although recipients from cDCDs ≥65 years of age showed lower 3-year patient survival (78% versus 87% in elderly DBD-KTrs; P = 0.01), recipient age was the only determinant of patient survival [hazard ratio 1.10 (95% confidence interval 1.02–1.17); P < 0.01], without any influence of donor characteristics.

Conclusions

The use of kidneys from elderly cDCDs is increasing in Spain. Short- and medium-term graft outcomes are similar when comparing kidneys from elderly cDCDs and DBDs. Recipient age is the only determinant of patient survival. Additional studies are needed to assess long-term outcomes.
MaizeCUBIC: a comprehensive variation database for a maize synthetic population
Authors: Luo Jingyun , Wei Chengcheng , Liu Haijun , Cheng Shikun , Xiao Yingjie , Wang Xiaqing , Yan Jianbing , Liu Jianxiao
Published: May 2020

MaizeCUBIC is a free database that describes genomic variations, gene expression, phenotypes and quantitative trait locus (QTLs) for a maize CUBIC population (24 founders and 1404 inbred offspring). The database not only includes information for over 14M single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) and 43K indels previously identified but also contains 660K structure variations (SVs) and 600M novel sequences newly identified in the present study, which represents a comprehensive high-density variant map for a diverse population. Based on these genomic variations, the database would demonstrate the mosaic structure for each progeny, reflecting a high-resolution reshuffle across parental genomes. A total of 23 agronomic traits measured on parents and progeny in five locations, where are representative of the maize main growing regions in China, were also included in the database. To further explore the genotype–phenotype relationships, two different methods of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were employed for dissecting the genetic architecture of 23 agronomic traits. Additionally, the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool and primer design tools are developed to promote follow-up analysis and experimental verification. All the original data and corresponding analytical results can be accessed through user-friendly online queries and web interface dynamic visualization, as well as downloadable files. These data and tools provide valuable resources on genetic and genomic studies of maize and other crops.
Case report of anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction in a patient with coronavirus disease-2019
Authors: Fischer Quentin , Darmon Arthur , Ducrocq Grégory , Feldman Laurent
Published: May 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease appeared in China in December 2019 and, since then, has spread worldwide at a rapid pace.

Case summary

A patient with COVID-19 was hospitalized in our institution for a diabetic foot ulcer and presented afterwards a pulmonary oedema and concomitant anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. We report here on the initial presentation, coronary care and intervention, and clinical course of this patient.

Discussion

Emergent percutaneous coronary intervention is feasible and safe in COVID-19 patients but requires a multidisciplinary effort involving caregivers from infectious disease, intensive care, and cardiology teams.
Lifetime cancer prevalence and life history traits in mammals
Authors: Boddy Amy M , Abegglen Lisa M , Pessier Allan P , Aktipis Athena , Schiffman Joshua D , Maley Carlo C , Witte Carmel
Published: May 2020

Background

Cancer is a common diagnosis in many mammalian species, yet they vary in their vulnerability to cancer. The factors driving this variation are unknown, but life history theory offers potential explanations to why cancer defense mechanisms are not equal across species.

Methodology

Here we report the prevalence of neoplasia and malignancy in 37 mammalian species, representing 11 mammalian orders, using 42 years of well curated necropsy data from the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We collected data on life history components of these species and tested for associations between life history traits and both neoplasia and malignancy, while controlling for phylogenetic history.

Results

These results support Peto’s paradox, in that we find no association between lifespan and/or body mass and the prevalence of neoplasia or malignancy. However, a positive relationship exists between litter size and prevalence of malignancy (P = 0.005, Adj. R2 = 0.212), suggesting that a species’ life history strategy may influence cancer vulnerabilities. Lastly, we tested for the relationship between placental invasiveness and malignancy. We find no evidence for an association between placental depth and malignancy prevalence (P = 0.618, Adj. R2 = 0.068).

Conclusions

Life history theory offers a powerful framework to understand variation in cancer defenses across the tree of life. These findings provide insight into the relationship between life history traits and cancer vulnerabilities, which suggest a trade-off between reproduction and cancer defenses.

Lay summary

Why are some mammals more vulnerable to cancer than others? We test whether life history trade-offs may explain this variation in cancer risk. Bigger, longer-lived animals do not develop more cancer compared to smaller, shorter-lived animals. However, we find a positive association between litter size and cancer prevalence in mammals.
Seismoelectromagnetic effects associated with the 2017 February 15 Veracruz earthquake (Mw = 4.8)
Authors: Rodríguez-Pérez Quetzalcoatl , Zúñiga F Ramón , Márquez-Ramírez Víctor H , Corbo-Camargo Fernando
Published: May 2020

In this study, we investigated correlations between electromagnetic and seismic signals of the 2017 February 15 Veracruz, Mexico, earthquake (Mw = 4.8). We carried out a time–frequency misfit analysis based on the continuous wavelet transform in order to compare electric, magnetic and seismic records accurately. This analysis was performed for horizontal and vertical components separately. Our results from time–frequency misfit and goodness-of-fit criteria confirm the general similarity between seismic and electromagnetic signals both in frequency and time. Additionally, we studied the behaviour of peak amplitudes of seismoelectromagenetic records as a function of magnitude and distance. Our observations are in good agreement with previous studies, confirming scaling with magnitude and attenuation with distance. Radiated seismic energy estimations were performed with two methods: integration of velocity records and empirical Green function, respectively. Estimated energy magnitudes (4.35 < Me < 4.98) are consistent with reported seismic magnitudes for this event. We propose a method for determining electric and magnetic coseismic energies based on the concept of energy flux as implemented in the frequency domain by the integration of electromagnetic records. The calculated energies showed that the radiated seismic energy is much higher than the electric and magnetic energies.
Early deficits in olfaction are associated with structural and molecular alterations in the olfactory system of a Huntington disease mouse model
Authors: Laroche M , Lessard-Beaudoin M , Garcia-Miralles M , Kreidy C , Peachey E , Leavitt B R , Pouladi M A , Graham R K
Published: May 2020

Olfactory dysfunction and altered neurogenesis are observed in several neurodegenerative disorders including Huntington disease (HD). These deficits occur early and correlate with a decline in global cognitive performance, depression and structural abnormalities of the olfactory system including the olfactory epithelium, bulb and cortices. However, the role of olfactory system dysfunction in the pathogenesis of HD remains poorly understood and the mechanisms underlying this dysfunction are unknown. We show that deficits in odour identification, discrimination and memory occur in HD individuals. Assessment of the olfactory system in an HD murine model demonstrates structural abnormalities in the olfactory bulb (OB) and piriform cortex, the primary cortical recipient of OB projections. Furthermore, a decrease in piriform neuronal counts and altered expression levels of neuronal nuclei and tyrosine hydroxylase in the OB are observed in the YAC128 HD model. Similar to the human HD condition, olfactory dysfunction is an early phenotype in the YAC128 mice and concurrent with caspase activation in the murine HD OB. These data provide a link between the structural olfactory brain region atrophy and olfactory dysfunction in HD and suggest that cell proliferation and cell death pathways are compromised and may contribute to the olfactory deficits in HD.
Modeling and measurement of signaling outcomes affecting decision making in noisy intracellular networks using machine learning methods
Authors: Ozen Mustafa , Lipniacki Tomasz , Levchenko Andre , Emamian Effat S , Abdi Ali
Published: May 2020

Characterization of decision-making in cells in response to received signals is of importance for understanding how cell fate is determined. The problem becomes multi-faceted and complex when we consider cellular heterogeneity and dynamics of biochemical processes. In this paper, we present a unified set of decision-theoretic, machine learning and statistical signal processing methods and metrics to model the precision of signaling decisions, in the presence of uncertainty, using single cell data. First, we introduce erroneous decisions that may result from signaling processes and identify false alarms and miss events associated with such decisions. Then, we present an optimal decision strategy which minimizes the total decision error probability. Additionally, we demonstrate how graphing receiver operating characteristic curves conveniently reveals the trade-off between false alarm and miss probabilities associated with different cell responses. Furthermore, we extend the introduced framework to incorporate the dynamics of biochemical processes and reactions in a cell, using multi-time point measurements and multi-dimensional outcome analysis and decision-making algorithms. The introduced multivariate signaling outcome modeling framework can be used to analyze several molecular species measured at the same or different time instants. We also show how the developed binary outcome analysis and decision-making approach can be extended to more than two possible outcomes. As an example and to show how the introduced methods can be used in practice, we apply them to single cell data of PTEN, an important intracellular regulatory molecule in a p53 system, in wild-type and abnormal cells. The unified signaling outcome modeling framework presented here can be applied to various organisms ranging from viruses, bacteria, yeast and lower metazoans to more complex organisms such as mammalian cells. Ultimately, this signaling outcome modeling approach can be utilized to better understand the transition from physiological to pathological conditions such as inflammation, various cancers and autoimmune diseases.
Clinical Value of Debriding Enzymes as an Adjunct to Standard Early Surgical Excision in Human Burns: A Systematic Review
Authors: Salehi Seyed Hamid , Momeni Mahnoush , Vahdani Masoud , Moradi Mohammad
Published: May 2020

Burns are a significant public health burden worldwide. In addition to those who die, millions remain with life-threatening deformities and disabilities resulting in stigma and rejection. Surgical excision is currently the standard of care for removing necrotic tissues in burn wounds to prepare the wound bed for grafting or enhancing the healing process. However, there is a growing interest on enzymatic debridement as an adjunct therapy in burn wounds. The aim of this study was to investigate clinical trials using debriding agents for burn wound in humans in a systematic review. This was a systematic review of electronic databases including CINAHL, PubMed, Ovid Medline, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Embase from January 1969 to February 2019. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO registry. The following keywords were searched: “burn wounds”, “enzymatic debridement”, “papain”, “papain-urea”, “pine apple”, “Bromelain”, “collagenases”, “Nexobrid”, “Debrase”, “Debridase”, “Actinidia deliciosa”, “Sutilains”, “Debrace”, “piruvat acid”. Those studies fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria with low score of bias based on Cochrane Bias Tool were reviewed. Sixteen investigations fulfilled our inclusion criteria to be reviewed. Six, seven, and three clinical trials on humans were found regarding collagenase, bromelain, and miscellaneous agents. Collagenase has been reported to be effective in burns below 25% of TBSA, especially in outpatients’ clinics. However, Nexobrid has been shown to be effective in deep burns and decreases the percentage of graft without significant adverse effects. There was not enough evidence supporting the clinical values of Papain, Sutilains, Urea, etc. Surgical excision still remains the standard of care for burn wounds debridement. However, enzymatic debridement, especially Bromelain might help to reduce sessions for surgical debridement or area under graft as an adjunct treatment. Despite the fact, more studies with larger sample sizes and with less conflicts of interest are needed to clearly elucidate the exact role of Bromelain.
The MRI Self-Efficacy Scale for Children: Development and Preliminary Psychometrics
Authors: Howlett Melissa , Chorney Jill
Published: May 2020

Objective 

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a common procedure that can be distressing for children. Although not yet studied in the context of pediatric medical procedures, self-efficacy may be a good predictor of procedural stress and a clinically feasible target for behavioral intervention. The objectives of this study were to develop the MRI Self-Efficacy Scale for Children (MRI-SEC) and assess the preliminary psychometric properties.

Methods 

Development of the MRI-SEC was informed by literature searches and feedback from healthcare providers. Twenty child–parent dyads naïve to MRI and 10 child–parent dyads with MRI experience completed the MRI-SEC to assess the comprehensibility and ease of use, and to inform item and scale refinement. The final version includes four practice items and 12 items directly assessing MRI self-efficacy. To evaluate the psychometric properties, 127 children (ages 6–12) and parents naïve to MRI completed the MRI-SEC, and a series of measures to assess construct validity. To evaluate test–retest reliability 27 children completed the MRI-SEC a second time.

Results 

The MRI-SEC demonstrated acceptable internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and convergent validity.

Conclusion 

Development of the MRI-SEC provides an opportunity to better understand the role of self-efficacy as a predictor of procedural stress and cooperation with MRI, informing reliable prediction of children who may benefit from additional support for MRI and the development of tailored behavioral interventions.
For whom the bell tolls: London’s Iraq and Afghanistan Memorial 1990-2015
Authors: Grady Kate
Published: May 2020

Following the recent turn to materiality in international legal scholarship, this article considers London’s Iraq and Afghanistan Memorial 1990-2015. By examining the memorial’s politics in respect of death quantification, gender, and lawfulness, the article reveals international law’s roles in contributing to the conditions of possibility from which the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan arose.
Re-historicising dissolved identities: Deskaheh, the League of Nations, and international legal discourse on Indigenous peoples
Authors: Young Stephen
Published: May 2020

In 1923, Levi General Deskaheh sought recognition from the League of Nations of the Six Nations’ sovereignty and right to self-determination. Although scholars have good reasons for retroactively identifing Deskaheh as a representative of Indigenous peoples, doing so dissolves the identities of historical and present-day subjects, which has a number of invidious consequences.
Toward a Better World
Authors: Lazenby Mark
Published: May 2020

Marked by nationalism, extremism, and xenophobia, the times require a response from nurses, a profession marked by a moral character of caring for the other, regardless of who the other is. Because nursing’s concern is the other—who shares a bond of humanity with us—nursing works for the common good. The collection of nurses that is the profession of nursing worldwide works for the common good, in its collective, by caring for the entire human community. The book’s central argument is that the profession can work for the common good through fulfilling obligations to the entire human community and that which sustains the human community. The obligations this book explores are to promote human equality, to give assistance to those who need it, to promote peace and safety, to respect Earth as a living entity with a moral status of its own, and to respect one’s own and others’ humanity. Working for the common good will produce a better world for everyone and for others who come after, which is the ultimate aim of the profession of nursing.
The bolometric quasar luminosity function at z = 0–7
Authors: Shen Xuejian , Hopkins Philip F , Faucher-Giguère Claude-André , Alexander D M , Richards Gordon T , Ross Nicholas P , Hickox R C
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we provide updated constraints on the bolometric quasar luminosity function (QLF) from z = 0 to z = 7. The constraints are based on an observational compilation that includes observations in the rest-frame IR, B band, UV, soft, and hard X-ray in past decades. Our method follows Hopkins et al. with an updated quasar SED model and bolometric and extinction corrections. The new best-fitting bolometric quasar luminosity function behaves qualitatively different from the old Hopkins model at high redshift. Compared with the old model, the number density normalization decreases towards higher redshift and the bright-end slope is steeper at z ≳ 2. Due to the paucity of measurements at the faint end, the faint end slope at z ≳ 5 is quite uncertain. We present two models, one featuring a progressively steeper faint-end slope at higher redshift and the other featuring a shallow faint-end slope at z ≳ 5. Further multiband observations of the faint-end QLF are needed to distinguish between these models. The evolutionary pattern of the bolometric QLF can be interpreted as an early phase likely dominated by the hierarchical assembly of structures and a late phase likely dominated by the quenching of galaxies. We explore the implications of this model on the ionizing photon production by quasars, the CXB spectrum, the SMBH mass density, and mass functions. The predicted hydrogen photoionization rate contributed by quasars is subdominant during the epoch of reionization and only becomes important at z ≲ 3. The predicted CXB spectrum, cosmic SMBH mass density, and SMBH mass function are generally consistent with existing observations.
AGN anisotropic radiative feedback set by black hole spin
Authors: Ishibashi W
Published: May 2020

We consider the impact of anisotropic radiation on the active galactic nucleus (AGN) radiative dusty feedback. The radiation pattern originating from the accretion disc is determined by the central black hole (BH) spin. Here we analyse how such BH spin-induced angular dependence affects the dynamics and energetics of the radiation pressure-driven outflows, as well as AGN obscuration and BH accretion. In addition, we explore the effect of a spatially varying dust-to-gas ratio on the outflow propagation. We obtain two distinct trends for high-spin and low-spin objects, providing a direct connection between anisotropic feedback and BH spin. In the case of maximum spin, powerful quasi-spherical outflows can propagate on large scales, at all inclination angles with fairly uniform energetics. In contrast, in the case of zero spin, only weaker bipolar outflows can be driven in the polar directions. As a result, high BH spins can efficiently clear out the obscuring gas from most directions, whereas low BH spins can only remove dusty gas from the polar regions, hence also determining the overall AGN obscuration geometry. Due to such anisotropic feedback, high BH spins can prevent accretion of gas from most directions (except in the equatorial plane), while low BH spins allow inflows to proceed from a wider range of directions. This may have important implications for the BH growth in the early Universe. Anisotropic radiative dusty feedback, ruled by the BH spin, may thus play a major role in shaping AGN evolution over cosmic time.
Inelastic rate coefficients for collisions of N2H+ with H2
Authors: Balança Christian , Scribano Yohann , Loreau Jérôme , Lique François , Feautrier Nicole
Published: May 2020

N2H+ is one of the first molecular ions observed in the interstellar medium and it is of particular interest to probe the physical conditions of cold molecular clouds. Accurate modelling of the observed lines requires the knowledge of collisional excitation rate coefficients. Thus, we have calculated rate coefficients for the excitation of N2H+ by H2, the most abundant collisional partner. The calculations are based on a new potential energy surface obtained from highly correlated ab initio calculations. This 4D-interaction surface exhibits a very deep well of ≈2530 cm−1 making fully converged scattering calculations very difficult to carry out, when one takes into account the rotational structure of H2. To overcome this difficulty, two approximate approaches, the adiabatic hindered rotor approach (AHR) and the statistical adiabatic channel model, were tested by comparing the results with those obtained from full 4D close-coupling calculations. The AHR treatment, which reduces the scattering calculations to a 2D problem was found to give the best results at all temperatures and even for transitions involving high N2H+ rotational levels. State-to-state rate coefficients between the 26 first N2H+ rotational levels were calculated for temperatures ranging from 5 K up to 500 K. Using a recoupling technique, rate coefficients are obtained among hyperfine transitions.