bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meaning's Comparison of Two Autumn Haiku Written by Masaoka Shiki and Takarai Kikaku
Authors: Fadli Zaki Ainul , Handoko Najma Fairus
Published: November 2021

Every country has its own culture. Japan has a close culture of art, both modern and traditional. One of the Japanese arts in literature is poetry. Poetry in Japanese literature is called haiku. To find out the differences and similarities in the meanings contained in the autumn-themed haiku by Masaoka Shiki and Takarai Kikaku, the writer intends to analyze the comparison of the two-autumn haiku by Masaoka Shiki and Takarai Kikaku. Comparative analysis of meaning is studied using Ronald Barthes's semiotic study to find its meaning. The semiotic study used is Ronald Barthes's semiotics which uses two stages of study through denotation and connotation, then its relationship with myth or culture. The result of this research produces a comparison of the similarities and differences between Masaoka Shiki's autumn haiku and Takarai Kikaku's. The similarity of autumn haiku by Masaoka Shiki and Takarai Kikaku is the theme raised, namely the beauty of nature and the environment. While the difference between the autumn haiku by Masaoka Shiki and Takarai Kikaku is the philosophical meaning of the discussion, and in the background of time and atmosphere mentioned.
Social Representation of Japanese Characters in Zainichi Film
Authors: Andayani Santi , Fatimah Emma Rahmawati , Gunawan Gathisa Silvia , Kancanadewi Aisyah Bellatrix
Published: November 2021

Discriminative treatment and zainichi identity crisis have often focused on zainichi-themed literary and media works. In terminology, zainichi is a term for ethnic Koreans living in Japan. Koreans are victims because of their minority, and Japanese are portrayed as perpetrators who discriminate against them. This study focuses on the representation of Japanese people through the main characters in the film Zainichi, Hotaru (2001) and For Those We Love (2007), which are the objects of this research. This study uses the representation theory by Stuart Hall to propose how Japanese people are represented in the zainichi film media. This research uses documentation and literature study techniques for data collection and descriptive qualitative methods for data analysis The results showed that the representation of the Japanese through the main characters in the two films emphasized more the positive or humanist Japanese characters: 1) people who respect other nations; 2) people who are compassionate and appreciate human values; 3) people who are considerate; 4) trustworthy people; 5) people who are loyal and committed to their friends and lovers.
“Unreliable Accounts: How Regulators Fabricate Conceptual Narratives to Diffuse Criticism” by Karthik Ramanna: A Comment on Ideological Capture
Authors: Palea Vera
Published: November 2021

Karthik Ramanna in ‘Unreliable accounts: How regulators fabricate conceptual narratives to diffuse criticism’ considers how the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) justified a conjunctural break from historic cost accounting (HCA) to Fair Value Accounting (FVA). Karthik’s paper explores how the US Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) legitimized the introduction of fair value accounting (FVA). This fundamental reorientation of financial reporting practice can, he argues, be understood within a framing device: conceptual veiling. Firstly, the FASB is (suspected to be) captured by the interests of investors and capital market actors. Secondly, the FASB needed to construct new narratives to enable this reorientation in accounting practice and this was achieved with changes to the governing conceptual framework. An alternative framing device is offered in this review, that of the financialization of company financial reporting and implications for company viability as opposed to a capital market efficiency perspective. Financialized accounting facilitates the valuation of a range of asset classes to a market value. These asset valuations are speculative in nature. FVA accounting imports speculative capital market risk onto company balance sheets and this can threaten company financial stability and viability for a going concern.
A simple cornea deformation model
Authors: Kehrer Tobias , Arba Mosquera Samuel
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we present a cornea deformation model based on the idea of extending the ‘neutral axis’ model to two-dimensional deformations. Considering this simple model, assuming the corneal tissue to behave like a continuous, isotropic and non-compressible material, we are able to partially describe, e.g., the observed deviation in refractive power after lenticule extraction treatments. The model provides many input parameters of the patient and the treatment itself, leading to an individual compensation ansatz for different setups. The model is analyzed for a reasonable range of various parameters. A semi-quantitative comparison to real patient data is performed.
History of radiotherapy in Poland. A brief outline of the problem
Authors: Gryglewski Richard W.
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The aim of this paper is to give brief outline on the history of radiotherapy in Poland from its beginnings until first decades of the second half of 20th century.

Methods

The study is based on comparative and reconstructive analyses of literature, papers and communications dealing with the history of radiotherapy in Poland.

Results

The history of radiotherapy in Poland can be perceived as a gradual process of shaping research centres and practical (clinical) application of radiotherapeutics. The Radium Institute in Warsaw, as well as radiotherapy centers in  Poznań and Kraków gained key importance in the period up to the outbreak of World War II. After the end of the war, Gliwice became another important place for the history of the radiotherapy and oncology in Poland.

Conclusions

Radiotherapy was early recognized by Polish physicians as promising in clinical treatment. It should be a subject of further studies, especially when formative period, thus before First World War, is analysed.
Ah!Nana’s Fairytale Punk-Comics: From the Comtesse de Ségur’s “Histoire de Blondine, Bonne-Biche et Beau-Minon” to Nicole Claveloux’s “Histoire de Blondasse, de Belle-Biche et Gros Chachat”
Authors: Denzel Valentina
Published: November 2021

During its brief existence from 1976 to 1978 the French underground feminist magazine Ah!Nana represented a powerful medium to discuss various topics related to women, sexuality, and discrimination. One of its main goals was to challenge traditional (literary) female role models, including housewives, submissive mothers, and “damsels in distress.” Through the adaptation of fairy tales, a genre particularly suited through its imaginative worlds to challenge preconceptions and norms, Ah!Nana deconstructed and questioned binary gender roles and heteronormativity. This article analyzes cartoon artist Nicole Claveloux’s queer adaptation of the nineteenth-century fairy tale “Histoire de Blondine, Bonne-Biche et Beau-Minon” (Blondine, the Good Doe, and the Gallant Cat) by the Comtesse de Ségur. Claveloux addresses her queer parody to an adult audience, and conveys a new perspective on gender, sexuality, and humanness that is in line with Ah!Nana’s promotion of second-wave feminist standpoints and punk culture. She advocates the exploration of new sexual pleasures, and the disruption of bourgeoisie values, including binary gender roles.
Multihazard susceptibility assessment: A case study – Municipality of Štrpce (Southern Serbia)
Authors: Durlević Uroš , Novković Ivan , Lukić Tin , Valjarević Aleksandar , Samardžić Ivan , Krstić Filip , Batoćanin Natalija , Mijatov Maja , Ćurić Vladimir
Published: November 2021

The municipality of Štrpce (Southern Serbia) is an area located within Šar Mountain National Park, which is of great ecological importance. Due to the vicinity of settlements, it is necessary to analyze the terrain's susceptibility to natural hazards. The main goal of this research was to determine locations that are highly vulnerable at times of natural hazards (such as earthquakes, erosion, torrential flooding, snow avalanches, and forest fires). The first step in this research was to analyze seismic hazards for a 475 years return period (VII–VIII MCS for the observed area), which was possible by means of Geographic Information Systems. The second step was to determine the intensity of erosion and total sediment production using the Erosion Potential Model. The third step was related to the analysis of the potential of torrential floods using the Flash Flood Potential Index. The Avalanches Potential Index method was used as the fourth step. The fifth step included the analysis of a terrain susceptibility to the occurrence of forest fires. Following the five criteria analysis, weight coefficients were assigned to each of the analyzed parameters by using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), which provided results of the total susceptibility to natural hazards of the territory of Štrpce. Results indicated that over 45% of the municipality is highly or very highly susceptible to various natural hazards. This article represents a significant step toward a better understanding of natural hazards and it provides a unique knowledge basis for establishing the management and mitigation guidelines and measures, not only within the researched area but at regional and national levels as well.
A full-view scenario model for urban waterlogging response in a big data environment
Authors: Liu Zhao-ge , Li Xiang-yang , Zhu Xiao-han
Published: November 2021

The emergence of big data is breaking the spatial and time limitations of urban waterlogging scenario description. The scenario data of different dimensions (e.g., administrative levels, sectors, granularities, and time) have become highly integrated. Accordingly, a structural and systematic model is needed to represent waterlogging scenarios for more efficient waterlogging response decision-making. In this article, a full-view urban waterlogging scenario is first defined and described from four dimensions. Next a structured representation of scenario element is given based on knowledge unit method. The full-view scenario model is then constructed by extracting the scenario correlation structures between different dimensions (called scenario nesting), i.e., inheritance nesting, feedback nesting, aggregation nesting, and selection nesting. Finally, a real-world case study in Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone, China is evaluated to verify the reasonability of the full-view model. The results show that the proposed model effectively integrates scenario data from different dimensions, which helps generate the complete key scenario information for urban waterlogging decision-making. The full-view scenario model is expected to be applicable for other disasters under big data environment.
Is there any role of interleukin-6 and high sensitive C-reactive protein in predicting IVF/ICSI success? A prospective cohort study
Authors: Ozgu-Erdinc A. Seval , Gozukara Ilay , Kahyaoglu Serkan , Yilmaz Saynur , Yumusak Omer Hamit , Yilmaz Nafiye , Erkaya Salim , Engin-Ustun Yaprak
Published: November 2021

Objectives

Studies have established a relationship between proinflammatory factors and implantation failure in IVF/ICSI cycles. Likewise, low-grade chronic inflammation is generally blamed for predisposing infertility. In the present study, we aimed to find a relationship between serum IL-6 and hs-CRP levels and IVF/ICSI cycle outcomes.

Methods

A total of 129 patients who consented to participate and attended the IVF unit of our department for the treatment of infertility have been enrolled in this prospective cohort study. Serum levels of high sensitive C-reactive protein and interleukin 6 have been detected at the beginning of the IVF/ICSI ovulation induction cycle. Cycle outcomes have been compared between patients with and without clinical pregnancy achievement following ART treatments. IVF/ICSI cycle outcomes of these two groups were also comparable except the number of >14 mm follicles, retrieved oocytes, metaphase II oocytes, and fertilized oocytes (2 pronuclei) which were in favor of the clinical pregnancy group.

Results

Mean serum hs-CRP levels were 3.08 mg/L (0.12–35.04) and 2.28 mg/L (0.09–22.52) patients with and without clinical pregnancy respectively. Mean serum IL-6 levels were 2 pg/mL (1–10.2) and 2 pg/mL (1–76.9) patients with and without clinical pregnancy respectively. Both tests were found to be statistically insignificant in predicting the success of the ART cycle in terms of implantation, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and live birth.

Conclusions

In the present study, we have not found any significant effect of hs-CRP and IL-6 levels in the IVF cycle. However, in the light of this and previous studies, large-scale research may prove the exact influence of these markers on IVF success.
Heat transfer behavior in ultrahigh-speed continuous casting mold
Authors: Zhang Luping , Xiao Pengcheng , Liu Zengxun , Zhou Jingyi , Zhu Liguang
Published: November 2021

The growth rate of the shell thickness in the funnel mold for ultrahigh-speed continuous casting of steel has a significant effect on the shell surface quality. By using the node temperature inheritance algorithm, a three-dimensional transient thermal conductivity model of the liquid steel solidification inside the mold was established, and the effects of casting temperature and speed on the heat transfer behavior of the thin slab were investigated. The results show that with an increase in the casting speed from 4.0 to 6.0 m·min−1, the maximum thickness of the shell at mold exit was reduced from 26 to 12.8 mm, and the maximum temperature of the slab surface at mold exit increased from 1,210 to 1,305°C. However, the increase of casting temperature from 1,550 to 1,560°C had little effect on the surface temperature and thickness of the slab shell.
Reliability and validity of the sense of humor scale
Authors: Lydon Daniel , McDermut Wilson
Published: November 2021

This study examined the reliability, validity, and factor structure of the sense of humor scale (SHS; McGhee, Paul E. 1999. Health, healing and the amuse system: Humor as survival training, 3rd edn. Dubuque: Kendall/Hunt), a 24-item questionnaire developed to measure overall sense of humor. Participants included 99 adults, 105 undergraduates, and 111 comedians. One-week test-retest reliability was good (r = 0.75). Internal consistency of the overall scale was excellent, and acceptable-to-excellent for the six subscales. Item-total correlations were generally strong. Comedians scored higher than undergraduates and adults, supporting the construct validity of the SHS. Convergent validity was strong as the SHS was positively correlated with the Humor Styles Questionnaire total and its subscales. Our analyses of SHS’s associations with the Big Five personality dimensions led to findings that are consistent with prior research, as the SHS was positively correlated with extraversion and openness to experience, but uncorrelated with neuroticism, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. Factor analyses found a bifactor model to be the best fitting model for the SHS. Ancillary bifactor fit indices provided additional support for the notion that the SHS may not be best described as unidimensional. Thus, it can be argued that the subscales are relevant for both research and applied work as they offer unique contributions.
Visualizing international studies on cyberspace sovereignty: concept, rationality, and legitimacy
Authors: Shi Jianzhong , Xu Ming
Published: November 2021

This study visualizes the international cyberspace sovereignty studies collected in Web of Science Core Collection to construct knowledge bases, development status, and dynamic trends drawing on scientometric method by instrument CiteSpace (5.7.R5). The findings show that the international studies on cyberspace sovereignty have phased and interdisciplinary characteristics. Its research theories, perspectives, and methods will be affected by practical and legal environment in the international contexts. Additionally, this study discusses its rationality to gain the concept through temporal evolution, spatial variation, and linguistic rank; explores its legitimacy through existing necessity, Common Law of Nature spirit and Positive Law foundation; and finally puts forward its implementation path. Furthermore, the logical basis and jurisprudential basis have established the status of cyberspace sovereignty in international law.
The (3 + 1)-dimensional Wazwaz–KdV equations: the conservation laws and exact solutions
Authors: Akbulut Arzu , Rezazadeh Hadi , Hashemi Mir Sajjad , Taşcan Filiz
Published: November 2021

In this study, we dealt with the new conservation theorem and the auxiliary method. We have applied the theorem and method to (3 + 1)-dimensional modified Wazwaz–KdV equations. When we applied a new conservation theorem to given equations, the obtained conservation laws did not satisfy the divergence condition. So, we modified the obtained conservation laws. These conservation laws contain extra terms. Finally, we applied the auxiliary method to given equations. We obtained two solution families with six exact solutions. All the obtained solutions are different from each other. For a suitable value of the solutions, the 3D and 2D surfaces have been plotted by Maple.
Optical solitons and stability regions of the higher order nonlinear Schrödinger’s equation in an inhomogeneous fiber
Authors: Raza Nauman , Javid Ahmad , Butt Asma Rashid , Baskonus Haci Mehmet
Published: November 2021

This paper concerns with the integrability of variable coefficient fifth order nonlinear Schrödinger’s equation describing the dynamics of attosecond pulses in inhomogeneous fibers. Variable coefficients incorporate varying dispersion and nonlinearity which are of physical significance in considering the nonuniform boundaries of fibers as well as the inhomogeneities of the media. The well-known exp(−φ(s))-expansion method is used to retrieve singular and periodic solitons with the aid of symbolic computation. The structures of the obtained solutions are discussed along with their existence criteria. Moreover, the modulation instability analysis is carried out to identify the instability regions. A dispersion relation is extracted between wave number and frequency. The optimal value of the frequency is found for the occurrence of the instability. A detailed discussion of the results is also given along with graphics.
Looking Backwards and Forwards: The Development of Film Art in the People’s Republic of China
Authors: Hu Zhifeng , Chen Yin
Published: November 2021

The development of film art in the People’s Republic of China throughout the past 70 years can be roughly divided into two stages: before and after the reform and opening-up．During this period, Chinese films not only influenced the political, economic, social, and cultural spheres, but they also produced aesthetics with uniquely Chinese characteristics, distinguishing themselves on the world film stage. However, after 70 years of development, Chinese films still have many contradictions and problems, namely: how to deal with the relationships between education and entertainment, plan and market, tradition/China/subjectivity, and modernity/world/diversity. Prejudicial tendencies can be avoided with a dialectical view of these relationships, and a healthy, integrated, and developmental track can be achieved. With this new historical contextualization in mind, to realize the transformation from a big film country to a strong film country, Chinese films should keep pace with the country’s economic and social strategic development, enhancing their quality and making contributions to a culturally advanced country with many high-standard films in the new era.
Effects of plate wear on bar forces and fiber properties in a mill scale LC-refiner
Authors: Aigner Matthias , Olson James , Sun Yu , Wild Peter
Published: November 2021

A set of piezo electric force sensors is implemented in a 52-inch mill-scale low consistency refiner to explore the effect of refiner plate wear on bar force sensor measurements. The sensor replaces a short length of a stator bar and measures normal and shear forces applied during the passage of each rotor bar. In previous work with this type of force sensor, force profiles for individual bar passing events (BPE) were investigated. In the work presented here, force profiles for individual BPEs are identified based on key features in the time domain force data. The individual bar force profiles are classified as single peak events which feature one peak corresponding to the fiber compression force and as dual peak events corresponding to fiber compression force and the corner force. The bar passing events are then analysed, based on dual peak ratio and time to peak of the early peak in the dual peak events. Force measurements are evaluated over the full run time of a set of refiner plates. Findings are compared with refiner plate wear measurements and discharge fiber analysis. It is shown that the decrease in the prevalence of the corner force correlates with the wear of the leading edge of the refiner bars or bar rounding of the run time of the refiner plate. This is accompanied by a decrease in plate performance which is represented by a decrease in fiber length and freeness reduction for the same refiner load.
Nanobiocatalysts and photocatalyst in dye degradation
Authors: Aseervatham G Smilin Bell , Devanesan Arul Ananth , Ali Doulathunnisa Jaffar
Published: November 2021

In the modern era, the world today is in a mission for a new method of environmental bioremediation in faltering the damage, especially in polluted water. Recently, the global direction is regulated toward an alteration from the usual chemical-based methods to a supplementary ecofriendly green alternative. In this perspective, biocatalysts are appreciated as an economical and clean substitute which was meant to catalyze degradation of unmanageable chemicals in a rapid, green and ecologically stable manner. Among the various sources of water pollution, the textile manufacturing industries were thought to be a major dispute due to release of effluents in natural water bodies such as rivers. Other industries like paper, pulp and tannery pharmaceutical industries were also responsible in contaminating the water bodies. Photocatalysis was considered as an auspicious method for the removal of dyes from the natural bodies, specifically those with hard organic compounds; using enzymes. The present chapter briefly emphasizes on the effective methods used for degradation of dye effluents; their importance of photocatalytic and biocatalytic solution to the current environmental difficulties and future opportunities are discussed.
Measured Life: Making Live, the “Modern System of Science,” and the Animated Bodies of Frankenstein
Authors: Wildermuth Andrew
Published: November 2021

This article considers Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein through what Sara Guyer calls “biopoetics,” hybridizing biopolitical and romantic reading strategies, and positing that romantic writing arises in temporal, theoretical, and political parallel with the movement of power from the reign of the sovereign to the realm of biopower. I focus on how Frankenstein imagines the flesh of Victor as animated and directed forward through biopower, by way of the novel’s juxtaposed medico-scientific and romantic discourse of life. Through close readings of the creation scene and Victor’s final breaths aboard Walton’s exploratory Arctic ship, I conclude that Frankenstein at last offers itself both as artifact and archaeology of modern power—or what Guyer calls “literature as a form of biopower.”
Horror and the Holocaust: ‘Prestige Horror’ and Frank Pierson’sConspiracy(2001)
Authors: Hantke Steffen
Published: November 2021

In an article published in 2004, Picart and Frank examined the use of stylistic and thematic elements Holocaust cinema can borrow from the horror film. Their argument at the time was constrained by the availability and their choice of primary texts, but the recent emergence of what has been called ‘prestige horror’ invites viewers to revisit their critical arguments and positions. Since ‘prestige horror’s’ aesthetic strategies tend to challenge conventional definitions of the horror genre, revisiting Picart and Frank’s argument proves most productive in the context of a Holocaust film, Frank Pierson’sConspiracy(2001), which, in turn, operates in creative dissonance with some of the conventions of Holocaust cinema.
Stroke unities: the role of the occupational therapist and the perception of the multidisciplinary team
Authors: Arsénio Duarte António , Paula Martin Ana , Santos Diana , Santos Rafael , Viegas Rita
Published: November 2021

Every second a person in the world suffers from a stroke, not surprising, therefore, that stroke is the leading cause of death and morbidity in Portugal. Increasingly, acute stroke is considered a medical emergency. The evidence proves that the treatment of these patients in specialized units (stroke units) is effective in acute stroke. A stroke unit is a hospital area where professionals with specific, well-defined training work, who provide care to stroke patients who are already stabilized, but are still in an acute phase(DGS, 2001). The aim of this study is to understand the role of the occupational therapist in stroke units and to identify the perspective of the multidisciplinary team on their work, clarifying what are the advantages of this professional in the team. The study falls within the qualitative paradigm, exploratory and descriptive. Semi-structured interviews were performed to 39 health professionals. The technique used was the content analysis of interviews. Based on previously established categories, other categories emerged.
RHEOKINETIC AND MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE REACTION FORMATION OF A POLYMER COMPOSITE MATERIAL BASED ON IMPACT-RESISTANT POLY(METHYL METHACRYLATE). MODEL AND APPLIED ASPECTS
Authors:   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine, SHUMSKY V.F. , GETMANCHUK I.P. ,   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine, KOSYANCHUK L.F. ,   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine, IGNATOVA T.D. ,   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine
Published: November 2021

Based on the experimental data on the rheology of dispersions of hydrophobic aerosil (Am) in a low molecular weight hydrocarbon medium, the possibility of using a «micellar» mechanism for the formation of a bulk structure for such dispersions is considered. A model of such a structure before, during and after shear deformation is proposed, which makes it possible to interpret experimental data on the rheology of dispersed systems. The results of the study of rheokinetics are presented in a new visio – from the point of view of self-organization under the influence of the shear field. The PMMA–PU–Am system was considered as a polymer composite (PC), in which the matrix is the poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) being modified, and the dispersed phase is a mixture of polyurethane (PU) with Am. It has been shown that during the reaction formation of this composition, the conditions of shear deformation of the system correspond to those at which self-organization and fixation of the coagulation rheopex structure of the nanofiller in PC is possible at the moment of reaching very high viscosity values (gel-point), when diffusion processes will be practically frozen. Two concentration regions of Am were predicted (before and after the percolation threshold), where an enhancement of the mechanical characteristics of PMMA can be expected. The relationship between the rheokinetics of the formation of a linear PMMA–crosslinked PU mixture in the presence of different amounts of oligomeric azo-initiator containing fragments of the polyurethane chain and groups capable of initiating radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate and the process of phase separation, morphology and mechanical properties of the final products has been established. It was shown that the time of phase separation and gelation are interrelated and there is in a simple dependence on the concentration of the azo-initiator. Such an initiator affects the structural-rheological transitions in the system and leads to the formation of morphology with smaller domains. The most stable system with the best dispersion of polyurethane in polymethyl methacrylate is a mixture containing 0.002 mol/L of azo-initiator, which has improved mechanical properties and increased impact viscosity.
THE THERMODYNAMICS OF INTERACTIONS AND RELAXATION PROPERTIES OF THE POSS-CONTAINING NANOCOMPOSITES BASED ON POLYURETHANE-POLY(HYDROXYPROPYL METHACRYLATE) MATRIX, WHICH IS FORMED BY THE PRINCIPLE OF IPNS
Authors:   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine, KARABANOVA L.V. , HONCHAROVA L.A. ,   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine, BABKINA N.V. ,   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine
Published: November 2021

A series of the nanocomposites based on a multicomponent polymer matrix consisting of polyurethane and poly(hydroxypropyl methacrylate) and 1,2-propanediolysobutyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (1,2-propanediolysobutyl-POSS), used as a functionalized nanofiller, was synthesized. The polymer matrix was formed on the principle of interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs). The influence of 1,2-propanediolysobutyl-POSS amount on the thermodynamics of polymer components of the matrix interactions and on the dynamic mechanical properties of the created nanocomposites was studied. With purpose of the thermodynamic parameters interactions calculations the isothermal sorption of methylene chloride vapour by samples was investigated. The methylene chloride vapour sorption by the samples was studied using a vacuum installation and a McBain balance. By calculations of the thermodynamic parameters of PU and PHPMA interactions was shown that the free energy of PU and PHPMA mixing was positive. The introduction of 1-3 wt % of POSS lead to further phase separation in semi-IPNs. This is due to concentration of POSS particles in the PU’s nanodomains. The increasing of POSS content up to 5-10 wt % lead to compatibi-lization in semi-IPNs. These is due to concentration of POSS nanoparticles not only in the PU’s nanodomains but also in the interphase region of semi-IPN. The dynamic mechanical properties of the created nanocomposites were investigated and the degree of polymer components segregation was calculated. It was shown that there are two peaks of tan δ (PU and PHPMA) in the nanocom-posites. The introduction of 1-3 wt % of POSS lead to increasing of tan δ peak of PHPMA and to deepening of the bridge between two peaks (PU and PHPMA). At the same time the degree of polymer components of the matrix segregation became higher. This means the further phase separation in semi-IPNs. Increasing of 1,2-propanediolysobutyl-POSS amount up to 5-10% leads to the concentration of the nanofiller not only in the nanodomains of PU, but also in the interfacial layers. This leads to a change in the free energy of polymer components mixing, which becomes negative. At the same time the degree of polymer components of the matrix segregation became significantly reduced. These means that the process of compatibilization took part in the semi-IPNs.
FEATURES OF IN SITU FORMATION OF MIXTURES OF LINEAR POLYMERS
Authors:   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine, IGNATOVA T.D. , KOSYANCHUK L.F. ,   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine
Published: November 2021

This article is devoted to the analysis of the results of the investigation of the process of forming mixtures of linear polymers formed simultaneously in situ according to different mechanisms. The first mechanism is polyaddition, the second mechanism is radical polymerization. This is one of the possible ways to obtain multicomponent polymer systems. The kinetics of chemical reactions of the formation of components and the phase separation which accompanies these reactions were studied for mixtures of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) with two polyurethanes (PU) of different chemical nature of both flexible and rigid blocks. PU-1 was synthesized from macrodiisocyanate based on oligo(tetramethylene glycol) with molecular mass 1000 g·mol–1 and hexamethylene diisocyanate taken in the molar ratio 1 : 2 using diethylene glycol as a chain extender. PU-2 was synthesized from macrodiisocyanate based on olygo(propylene glycol) with molecular mass 1000 g·mol–1 and toluylene diisocyanate taken in the molar ratio 1 : 2 using butanediol as a chain extender. The mixture of polystyrene (PS) with PU-2 was studied too. It is established that regardless of the chemical nature of the components, the process of in situ mixture formation is subject to general laws. In particular, the change in the chemical nature of the component formed by the mechanism of polyaddition (mixtures PMMA/PU-1 and PMMA/PU-2) or of the component formed by radical polymerization (mixtures PMMA/PU-2 and PS/PU-2) does not affect the nature of the dependence of the conversion degree of components and the fraction of formed polymers at the beginning of the phase separation on the composition of the initial reaction mixtures. Only the absolute values of these parameters change due to different reactivity and different thermodynamic compatibility of the mixed components.
PHYSICAL AGING OF ORGANO-INORGANIC NANOCOMPOSITES BASED ON POLYIMIDE WITH CARD SUBSTITUENTS
Authors:   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine, KOZAK N.V. , SHANTALII T.A. ,   Institute of macromolecular Chemistry NAS of Ukraine, 48, Kharkivske shose, Kyiv, 02160, Ukraine
Published: November 2021

The physical aging was investigated of obtained by sol-gel technology nanocomposites based on polyimide (PI) with card substituents and tetraethoxysylane (TEOS). The results for organic-inorganic composites, that contain of 5%. 20% or 50 % of TEOS, demonstrate that at temperatures well below (400K) the glass transition temperature of the polymer can take place changes in the dynamic characteristics of polymer macrochains and its permeability to low molecular probe as well as changes in aggregation of inorganic component. According to the methods of EPR, optical microscopy, etc. changes that occur in the characteristics of sol-gel polyimide based nanocomposites during long-term storage at temperatures much lower than the glass transition temperature of the polymer can be described as follows. The segmental mobility of the organic component is significantly reduced and the dynamic heterogeneity of the polymer increases. The decrease in the relative permeability of aged nanocomposites with increased content of inorganic component as compared with aged pure PI does not correlate with the content of TEOS in contrast to the initial samples of the same composition. PI macrochains chemically bonded to the inorganic phase have limited ability to realize an optimal conformation in the process of thermal relaxation (physical aging) so the increasing the content of the inorganic component has less effect on reducing the permeability of aged composites compared to aged pure PI. This is consistent with changes in the distribution of inorganic aggregates of composites. There are changes in the mean size of aggregates of inorganic particles in the composite and a decrease in their number. Smoothing is observed of the surface of nanocomposite films as well as disappearance of inhomogeneities caused by the surface of support. Due to the chemical bonding of inorganic particles and polyimide matrix, the peculiarities of the physical aging process of such composites are due to the mutual influence of the inorganic and polymer components.
Photocataytic Degradation of Phenol Using TiO2-Fe Under H2O2 Presence by Visible and Sunlight Irradiation
Authors: Kusumawardani Linda J , Iryani Ani
Published: November 2021

Phenol is one of the essential organic pollutants released into the environment because of its high stability and toxicity. It is harmful to organisms, environment, and posing a serious threat to human health at low concentration. This research investigated the photocatalytic degradation process of phenol using a TiO2-Fe catalyst under visible light irradiation and additional H2O2. The effect of various conditions process was applied, including different catalyst doses (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 g/L), pH (3, 6, 8, and 11), irradiation times (60, 90, 120, 150, and 210 minutes) and the presence of H2O2. The degradation process was studied at an initial concentration of phenol 5 mg/L. This study has been decreasing phenol content (90.51%) with catalyst doses 0.6 g/ L sample solution, pH solution 11, reaction time 210 minutes and H2O2 concentration 30%. This final phenol concentration after photodegradation under halogen light was 0.18 mg/L, while sunlight irradiation was 0.11 mg/L. This result is below government regulation as per Permen LH RI No. 5/2014 i.e. 0.5 mg/L. Therefore, this process possible to remove phenol in aqueous such as industrial wastewater or other resources.
Synthesis of Adsorbent from Bagasse for Methylene Blue Adsorption
Authors: Nurhasni Nurhasni , Harahap Sariana , Fathoni Ahmad , Hendrawati Hendrawati
Published: November 2021

The ability of bagasse adsorbents to adsorb methylene blue without activation using 0.5 M H2SO4 solution was examined. Methylene blue is widely used in the textile industry because it produces bright colors, and the dyeing process is fast and easy. This research aims to determine the optimum adsorption conditions, namely the variations in contact time, dye concentration, adsorbent mass, and pH effect on methylene blue, which were carried out using the batch method. Furthermore, the adsorbents were characterized by FT-IR and SEM. The optimum state of the bagasse adsorbent to adsorb methylene blue dye has a mass of 0.5 grams, a contact time of 30 minutes, a concentration of 50 ppm, and a pH of 5. The character of the adsorbent after activation with H2SO4 was better than without activation. The highest adsorption efficiency of methylene blue dye in the batch method was 99.67%. The FTIR spectrum of the bagasse adsorbent showed OH, C-H, C=O, C=C, and C-O functional groups. The adsorption isotherm model for methylene blue dye follows the Langmuir isotherm since the graph obtained is linear with the correlation coefficient (R2) = 1, where the adsorbent has a homogeneous surface.
Flavonoids from the Roots of Amomum compactum Soland Ex Maton (Zingiberaceae)
Authors: Dinata Deden Indra , Maharani Rani , Muttaqien Fauzan Zein , Supratman Unang , Azmi Mohamad Nurul , Shiono Yoshihito
Published: November 2021

Amomum compactum Soland Ex Maton is one of the Zingiberaceae family plants which is the endemic plants from West Java, Indonesia. This study was aimed to determine the chemical structure of flavonoid compounds from n-hexane extract of A.compactum Sol. Ex Maton roots. Dried powder of the roots was extracted consecutively with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol solvents. Three flavonoids, 5-hydroxy-3,7,4`-trimethoxy kaempferol (1), 5-hydroxy-3,7,3',4'-tetra methoxy kaempferol (2) and 4'-hydroxy-3,5,7-trimethoxy kaempferol (3), have been isolated from the roots of A. compactum Sol. Ex Maton.  The chemical structures of compounds 1-3 were identified by spectroscopy data including infrared 1D-NMR, 2D-NMR and HRTOF-MS as well as by comparison with previously reported spectral data. Compounds 1-3 were isolated from this plant for the first time and showed free radical DPPH scavenging activity.
Degradation of Imidacloprid Residue on Red Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) by Advanced Oxidation Processes and Analysis using Spectrophotometer and HPLC
Authors: Safni Safni , Jumiaty Hazanita , Aziz Hermansyah
Published: November 2021

The insecticide imidacloprid (C9H10ClN5O2) common used by farmers to control pests on red tomato plants, is a dangerous substance classified as a Class II toxic. The imidacloprid residue in red tomatoes enters the body, it will lead to health problems. The purpose of this study was to determine the percentage of imidacloprid residue that can be degraded using the Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) method, which includes sonolysis, sonozolysis, ozonolysis, ozone water, and the effect of various parameters. Processing time, water volume, and red tomato mass were the test parameters studied. The change in imidacloprid residue concentration during the degradation process was measured using a UV/Vis spectrophotometer (double beam) with a wavelength of 200-400 nm and HPLC with mobile phase composition used was acetonitrile/water (65:35 v/v). With a processing time of 10 minutes, the imidacloprid residue in red tomatoes can be degraded 57.38% by sonozonolysis, 63.51 % by sonolysis, 85.17 % by ozonolysis, and 88.76 % by ozone water. The imidacloprid residue in 75 g of red tomatoes could be removed as much as 91.65% by treating with ozone water for 15 minutes. HPLC analysis showed that no intermediate compounds were detected in the imidacloprid residue degradation process in red tomatoes.
Extraction and Characterization of Urease from Durio zibethinus L
Authors: Zusfahair Zusfahair , Fatoni Amin , Ningsih Dian Riana , Kurniasih Mardiyah
Published: November 2021

Urease is a biocatalyst that serves to hydrolyze urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. Since it is an imported product, the price of urea is still high. Urease can be found in grains. One of the grains that has not been explored for its urease content is durian (Durio zibethinus L.) seeds. This study aims to determine the effect of germination time on the activity of urease from durian seeds and its characteristics including the effect of pH, incubation temperature, enzymatic reaction time, addition of EDTA and metals, and storage time on the activity of urease from durian seeds. The first step of this study was seed germination which was carried out in the dark for 0, 3, 5, 7, and 9 days. Durian seed sprouts were extracted by mashing them using a mortar and pestle. They were then homogenized using a stirrer and centrifuged in a cold state. The crude urease extract obtained was then tested for its activity using the Nessler method. The acquired data was tested statistically using ANOVA. The results showed that the activity of urease from durian seeds was optimum at 3-day germination time, pH 7, incubation temperature at 30 °C, and 15-minute enzymatic reaction time with an activity of 163.6 U/mL. Urease is a metalloenzyme with its inhibitor being the Cu2+ and Na+ metal ions and its activator being Ba2+ metal ion. Tukey's test analysis showed that the effect of urease storage time at 4 °C resulted in a stable urease activity for 8 days while at room temperature it decreased its activity significantly to 72.8%.
Application of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometry Method for Analysis of Metformin Hydrochloride in Marketed Tablet Dosage Form
Authors: Nerdy Nerdy , Margata Linda , Meliala Dian Ika Perbina , Sembiring Bunga Mari , Ginting Selamat , Putra Effendy De Lux , Mulyati Atika , Bakri Tedy Kurniawan
Published: November 2021

The first line drug given for monotherapy for diabetes mellitus type 2 is metformin hydrochloride, which is a biguanide antihyperglycemic drug. The aim of this research was to develop, validate, and apply the Fourier Transform Infrared spectrophotometry method to identify and determine metformin hydrochloride in marketed tablet dosage form. This research included preparation of standard, analysis of samples, and validation of method. The specific wavenumber obtained for qualitative analysis was 1645.68 cm–1 and 1574.8 cm–1. The specific area obtained for quantitative analysis with a single baseline ranged from 1701.53 cm–1 to 1535.66 cm–1. All metformin hydrochloride marketed tablet dosage forms were analyzed and met all of the qualitative and quantitative requirements. The methods met the requirements of method validation for accuracy with a percentage of recovery of 100.22 %, precision with relative standard deviation of 0.48 %, linearity with a correlation coefficient of 0.9992, limit of detection of 11.17 mg per mL, limit of quantitation of 33.84 mg per mL, and good specificity results. In this study, the Fourier Transform Infrared spectrophotometry method was successfully developed and validated for application in identification and determination of metformin hydrochloride in marketed tablet dosage form.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue and Methyl Orange by Y-PTC Metal-Organic Framework
Authors: Adawiah Adawiah , Yudhi Muhammad Derry Luthfi , Zulys Agustino
Published: November 2021

The yttrium based metal-organic framework (MOF) Y-PTC was synthesized by the solvothermal method using perylene as the linker and yttrium as metal ion. This study aims to assess the photocatalytic activity of yttrium-perylenetetracarboxylate (Y-PTC) metal-organic framework (MOF) toward methylene blue and methyl orange under visible light irradiation. The results of the FTIR analysis showed that Y-PTC MOF had a different structure and composition from its precursor (Na4PTC). The Y-PTC MOF has a bandgap energy value of 2.20 eV with a surface area of 47.7487 m2/g. The SEM-EDS analysis showed an elemental composition of yttrium, carbon, and oxygen, were 6.9%, 72.1% and 20.7%, respectively. Furthermore, Y-PTC MOF was able to adsorb dyes at the optimum by 78.10% and 35.57% toward methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) at the dispersion period of 60 mins. Y-PTC MOF exhibited photocatalytic activity towards the degradation of methylene blue and methyl orange under visible light irradiation. The addition of H2O2 inhibited Y-PTC photocatalytic activity towards MO degradation from 50.89% to 26.38%. In contrast to MO, the addition of H2O2 had a positive effect on MB, which increased the degradation from 87.56% to 91.65%. Therefore, Y-PTC MOF possessed the potential of a photocatalyst material in dyes degradation under visible light irradiation.
The Gap to Fill: Rationale for Rapid Initiation and Optimal Titration of Comprehensive Disease-modifying Medical Therapy for Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction
Authors: Brownell Nicholas K , Ziaeian Boback , Fonarow Gregg C
Published: November 2021

There are gaps in the use of therapies that save lives and improve quality of life for patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, both in the US and abroad. The evidence is clear that initiation and titration of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) and comprehensive disease-modifying medical therapy (CDMMT) to maximally tolerated doses improves patient-focused outcomes, yet observational data suggest this does not happen. The purpose of this review is to describe the gap in the use of optimal treatment worldwide and discuss the benefits of newer heart failure therapies including angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. It will also cover the efficacy and safety of such treatments and provide potential pathways for the initiation and rapid titration of GDMT/CDMMT.