bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Implementation of Electro-Optic 2×2 Switch and Optical Gates using MZI
Authors: Kaur Gurjit , Rani Neha , Parasher Yaman , Singh Prabhjot
Published: February 2018

MZI switches are well-known devices for high speed communication applications. A lot of researchers have designed MZI switches by using lithium niobate and potassium niobate material. But the major problem of using these type of material includes high insertion losses and required high switching voltage. So, in this research paper we have designed a 2×2 electro-optic switch using optical waveguide designed with Titanium (Ti) diffused in Strontium barium niobate (SBNO3) material which can operate at wavelength of 1.3 um. Results show that the proposed structure gives better output in terms of extinction ratio (=29.9 db) as well as for insertion losses (≤0.018). Further, we have designed various optical gates i. e. XNOR, XOR and AND optical gates and their performance is also evaluated by varying electrode voltages. It is inferred from the results that the proposed model gives better results even in terms of output power which can be used for commercial purpose.
Sequential Testing with Uniformly Distributed Size
Authors: Anatolyev Stanislav , Kosenok Grigory
Published: February 2018

Sequential procedures for the testing for structural stability do not provide enough guidance on the shape of boundaries that are used to decide on acceptance or rejection, requiring only that the overall size of the test is asymptotically controlled. We introduce and motivate a reasonable criterion for the shape of boundaries which requires that the test size be uniformly distributed over the testing period. Under this criterion, we numerically construct boundaries for the most popular sequential tests that are characterized by a test statistic behaving asymptotically either as a Wiener process or Brownian bridge. We handle this problem both in the context of retrospecting a historical sample and in the context of monitoring newly arriving data. We tabulate the boundaries by fitting them to certain flexible yet parsimonious functional forms. Interesting patterns emerge in an illustrative application of sequential tests to the Phillips curve model.
Data Assimilation in a Multi-Scale Model
Authors: Hu Guannan , Franzke Christian L. E.
Published: February 2018

Data assimilation for multi-scale models is an important contemporary research topic. Especially the role of unresolved scales and model error in data assimilation needs to be systematically addressed. Here we examine these issues using the Ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) with the two-level Lorenz-96 model as a conceptual prototype model of the multi-scale climate system. We use stochastic parameterization schemes to mitigate the model errors from the unresolved scales. Our results indicate that a third-order autoregressive process performs better than a first-order autoregressive process in the stochastic parameterization schemes, especially for the system with a large time-scale separation.Model errors can also arise from imprecise model parameters. We find that the accuracy of the analysis (an optimal estimate of a model state) is linearly correlated to the forcing error in the Lorenz-96 model. Furthermore, we propose novel observation strategies to deal with the fact that the dimension of the observations is much smaller than the model states. We also propose a new analog method to increase the size of the ensemble when its size is too small.
Genetic Programming Technique Applied for Flash-Flood Modelling Using Radar Rainfall Estimates
Authors: Dinu Cristian , Drobot Radu , Pricop Claudiu , Blidaru Tudor Viorel
Published: February 2018

The rainfall-runoff transformation is a highly complex dynamic process and the development of fast and robust modelling instruments has always been one of the most important topics for hydrology. Over time, a significant number of hydrological models have been developed with a clear trend towards a process-based approach. The downside of these types of models is the significant amount of data required for building the model and for the calibration process: in practice, the collection of all necessary data for such models proves to be a difficult task. In order to cope with this issue, various data-driven modelling techniques have been introduced for hydrological modelling as an alternative to more traditional approaches, on the basis of their capacity of mapping out complex relationships from observation data. Having the capacity to generate meaningful mathematical structures as results, genetic programming (GP) presents a high potential for rainfall-runoff modelling as a data-driven method. Using ground and radar rainfall observation, the aim of this study is to investigate the GP technique capability for modelling the rainfall-runoff process, taking into consideration a flash-flood event.
Cloud Computing and Internet of Things Concepts Applied on Buildings Data Analysis
Authors: Hebean Florin-Adrian , Caluianu Sorin
Published: February 2018

Used and developed initially for the IT industry, the Cloud computing and Internet of Things concepts are found at this moment in a lot of sectors of activity, building industry being one of them. These are defined like a global computing, monitoring and analyze network, which is composed of hardware and software resources, with the feature of allocating and dynamically relocating the shared resources, in accordance with user requirements. Data analysis and process optimization techniques based on these new concepts are used increasingly more in the buildings industry area, especially for an optimal operations of the buildings installations and also for increasing occupants comfort. The multitude of building data taken from HVAC sensor, from automation and control systems and from the other systems connected to the network are optimally managed by these new analysis techniques. Through analysis techniques can be identified and manage the issues the arise in operation of building installations like critical alarms, nonfunctional equipment, issues regarding the occupants comfort, for example the upper and lower temperature deviation to the set point and other issues related to equipment maintenance. In this study, a new approach regarding building control is presented and also a generalized methodology for applying data analysis to building services data is described. This methodology is then demonstrated using two case studies.
Genotype X Environment Interaction for Yield of Pickling Cucumber in 24 U.S. Environments
Authors: Dia Mahendra , Wehner Todd C. , Elmstrom Gary W. , Gabert August , Motes James E. , Staub Jack E. , Tolla Greg E. , Widders Irvin E.
Published: February 2018

Reliable yield performance is important in cucumber because seed companies prefer to market cultivars adapted to multiple rather than single regions of the U.S. Also, growers benefit by using a cultivar that performs well in many environments. Future performance of cultivars is also important. The objectives of the study were to (i) evaluate the yield of cucumber genotypes over successive years and in different locations, and (ii) identify cucumber genotypes with high stability for yield. A diverse set of 22 pickling genotypes was evaluated over 3 years (1986, 1987 and 1988) and in 7 locations across the United States. Yield traits were evaluated using once-over harvest and counting the number of fruit that were marketable, culled or oversize. Total yield, marketable yield (total minus culled fruit), early yield (number of oversize fruit), percent culls and fruit per plant were calculated. Data were analyzed with SASGxE and RGxE programs using SAS and R programming languages, respectively. There were strong effects of environment(E) as well as genotype(G) xE interaction for all traits. Genotypes ‘Regal F1’, ‘Calypso F1’, ‘Carolina F1’, ‘Gy 3’, ‘Gy 14’ and ‘Fremont F1’ had high marketable yield and medium to high stability for all traits. There was an advantage of hybrids over inbreds for trait performance. Hybrids fell into a single cluster with large prediction intervals. Based on the stability statistics and divisive clusters, it appears possible to breed stable cucumber genotypes with high yield. The genotype with highest performance for marketable yield, greatest stability for yield, lowest 1-R2 ratio value (diverse and representative) were ‘Marbel F1’ and Gy 14.
Fluctuations in 1D stochastic homogenization of pseudo-elliptic equations with long-range dependent potentials
Authors: Lechiheb Atef , Haouala Ezeddine
Published: February 2018

This paper deals with the homogenization problem of one-dimensional pseudo-elliptic equations with a rapidly varying random potential. The main purpose is to characterize the homogenization error (random fluctuations), i.e., the difference between the random solution and the homogenized solution, which strongly depends on the autocovariance property of the underlying random potential. It is well known that when the random potential has short-range dependence, the rescaled homogenization error converges in distribution to a stochastic integral with respect to standard Brownian motion. Here, we are interested in potentials with long-range dependence and we prove convergence to stochastic integrals with respect to the Hermite process.
Full column rank preservers that preserve semipositivity of matrices
Authors: Arumugasamy Chandrashekaran , Jayaraman Sachindranath
Published: February 2018

Left invertibility preservers on Mm,n(ℝ), m ≥ n, that preserve either semipositivity of matrices or the subset of minimally semipositive matrices are studied. We prove that such maps cannot be degenerate. We also highlight the structure of nonsingular subspaces of dimension 2 in M2(ℝ).
Experimental Study in the Modification of Mortar Samples with Incorporated Rice Husk
Authors: Liu Jiesheng , Li Faping , He Xiang , Liu Xiaofan , Zhang Rongtang
Published: February 2018

The aim of this work is to investigate the influence of rice husk (RH) on the properties of mortar. Two different RH were used as integral additives in the mortar samples: direct natural RH addition to the mortar and the use of pretreated RH. The results of such modification are described, taking into consideration the interaction between the RH and mortar. In addition, the physical properties, visual observation and microstructure of mortar prepared with different amount of modified RH were experimentally studied. The test results indicated that modification of RH enhanced the interaction between the RH and mortar because of the impurities removal and rougher surface. Comparing with the natural RH, the modification of RH increases the density and the mechanical properties. The addition of RH can increase the pore number of the mortar mixture, resulting in decrease in the density and mechanical properties of mortar. Morphology characterization results showed that the modification of RH results in an improvement in the interaction between the RH and mortar and further increase in RH content increases the number of pores in the mortar structure.
Independent and Interactive Effects of Neighborhood Disadvantage and Social Network Characteristics on Problem Drinking After Treatment
Authors: Mericle Amy A. , Kaskutas Lee A. , Polcin Doug L. , Karriker-Jaffe Katherine J.
Published: February 2018

Socioecological approaches to public health problems like addiction emphasize the importance of person-environment interactions. Neighborhood and social network characteristics may influence the likelihood of relapse among individuals in recovery, but these factors have been understudied, particularly with respect to conceptualizing social network characteristics as moderators of neighborhood disadvantage. Drawing from a larger prospective study of individuals recruited from outpatient treatment (N = 451) and interviewed 1, 3, 5, and 7 years later, the aim of this study was to examine the independent and interactive effects of neighborhood and social network characteristics on continued problem drinking after treatment. Models using generalized estimating equations controlling for demographic and other risk factors found the number of heavy drinkers in one's network increases risk of relapse, with the effects being significantly stronger among those living in disadvantaged neighborhoods than among those in non-disadvantaged neighborhoods. No independent effects were found for neighborhood disadvantage or for the number of network members supporting reduced drinking. Future research is needed to examine potential protective factors in neighborhoods which may offset socioeconomic disadvantage as well as to investigate the functions that network members serve in helping to improve long-term treatment outcomes.
Brain Transcriptome Databases: A User's Guide
Authors: Keil Jason M. , Qalieh Adel , Kwan Kenneth Y.
Published: February 2018

Transcriptional programs instruct the generation and maintenance of diverse subtypes of neural cells, establishment of distinct brain regions, formation and function of neural circuits, and ultimately behavior. Spatiotemporal and cell type-specific analyses of the transcriptome, the sum total of all RNA transcripts in a cell or an organ, can provide insights into the role of genes in brain development and function, and their potential contribution to disorders of the brain. In the previous decade, advances in sequencing technology and funding from the National Institutes of Health and private foundations for large-scale genomics projects have led to a growing collection of brain transcriptome databases. These valuable resources provide rich and high-quality datasets with spatiotemporal, cell type-specific, and single-cell precision. Most importantly, many of these databases are publicly available via user-friendly web interface, making the information accessible to individual scientists without the need for advanced computational expertise. Here, we highlight key publicly available brain transcriptome databases, summarize the tissue sources and methods used to generate the data, and discuss their utility for neuroscience research.
Overlapping Role of SCYL1 and SCYL3 in Maintaining Motor Neuron Viability
Authors: Kuliyev Emin , Gingras Sebastien , Guy Clifford S. , Howell Sherie , Vogel Peter , Pelletier Stephane
Published: February 2018

Members of the SCY1-like (SCYL) family of protein kinases are evolutionarily conserved and ubiquitously expressed proteins characterized by an N-terminal pseudokinase domain, centrally located Huntingtin, elongation factor 3, protein phosphatase 2A, yeast kinase TOR1 repeats, and an overall disorganized C-terminal segment. In mammals, three family members encoded by genesScyl1,Scyl2, andScyl3have been described. Studies have pointed to a role for SCYL1 and SCYL2 in regulating neuronal function and viability in mice and humans, but little is known about the biological function of SCYL3. Here, we show that the biochemical and cell biological properties of SCYL3 are similar to those of SCYL1 and both proteins work in conjunction to maintain motor neuron viability. Specifically, although lack ofScyl3in mice has no apparent effect on embryogenesis and postnatal life, it accelerates the onset of the motor neuron disorder caused byScyl1deficiency. Growth abnormalities, motor dysfunction, hindlimb paralysis, muscle wasting, neurogenic atrophy, motor neuron degeneration, and loss of large-caliber axons in peripheral nerves occurred at an earlier age inScyl1/Scyl3double-deficient mice than inScyl1-deficient mice. Disease onset also correlated with the mislocalization of TDP-43 in spinal motor neurons, suggesting that SCYL1 and SCYL3 regulate TDP-43 proteostasis. Together, our results demonstrate an overlapping role for SCYL1 and SCYL3in vivoand highlight the importance the SCYL family of proteins in regulating neuronal function and survival. Only male mice were used in this study.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTSCYL1 and SCYL2, members of the SCY1-like family of pseudokinases, have well established roles in neuronal function. Herein, we uncover the role of SCYL3 in maintaining motor neuron viability. Although targeted disruption ofScyl3in mice had little or no effect on embryonic development and postnatal life, it accelerated disease onset associated with the loss ofScyl1, a novel motor neuron disease gene in humans.Scyl1andScyl3double-deficient mice had neuronal defects characteristic of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, including TDP-43 pathology, at an earlier age than didScyl1-deficient mice. Thus, we show that SCYL1 and SCYL3 play overlapping roles in maintaining motor neuronal viabilityin vivoand confirm that SCYL family members are critical regulators of neuronal function and survival.
Abstract Memory Representations in the Ventromedial Prefrontal Cortex and Hippocampus Support Concept Generalization
Authors: Bowman Caitlin R. , Zeithamova Dagmar
Published: February 2018

Memory function involves both the ability to remember details of individual experiences and the ability to link information across events to create new knowledge. Prior research has identified the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC) and the hippocampus as important for integrating across events in the service of generalization in episodic memory. The degree to which these memory integration mechanisms contribute to other forms of generalization, such as concept learning, is unclear. The present study used a concept-learning task in humans (both sexes) coupled with model-based fMRI to test whether VMPFC and hippocampus contribute to concept generalization, and whether they do so by maintaining specific category exemplars or abstract category representations. Two formal categorization models were fit to individual subject data: a prototype model that posits abstract category representations and an exemplar model that posits category representations based on individual category members. Latent variables from each of these models were entered into neuroimaging analyses to determine whether VMPFC and the hippocampus track prototype or exemplar information during concept generalization. Behavioral model fits indicated that almost three-quarters of the subjects relied on prototype information when making judgments about new category members. Paralleling prototype dominance in behavior, correlates of the prototype model were identified in VMPFC and the anterior hippocampus with no significant exemplar correlates. These results indicate that the VMPFC and portions of the hippocampus play a broad role in memory generalization and that they do so by representing abstract information integrated from multiple events.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWhether people represent concepts as a set of individual category members or by deriving generalized concept representations abstracted across exemplars has been debated. In episodic memory, generalized memory representations have been shown to arise through integration across events supported by the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC) and hippocampus. The current study combined formal categorization models with fMRI data analysis to show that the VMPFC and anterior hippocampus represent abstract prototype information during concept generalization, contributing novel evidence of generalized concept representations in the brain. Results indicate that VMPFC–hippocampal memory integration mechanisms contribute to knowledge generalization across multiple cognitive domains, with the degree of abstraction of memory representations varying along the long axis of the hippocampus.
“An Image of Science”
Authors: Sepkoski David , Tamborini Marco
Published: February 2018

This paper traces the emergence of a new visual language for statistical paleontology in the early nineteenth century as part of a broader project to uncover a deep genealogy of modern practices in data visualization. In the first decades of the nineteenth century, natural historians had amassed large quantities of taxonomic data, but lacked quantitative and visual methods to produce and communicate knowledge derived from their data collections. As our “main witness” (in Ian Hacking’s sense), we call on the German paleontologist H. G. Bronn—one of the earliest proponents of a “data-driven” approach to statistical natural history—to highlight two unexpected sources of a transformative visual idiom introduced at the time: so-called spindle diagrams representing historical patterns in taxonomic diversity. The first source—which informed Bronn’s general statistical approach to fossil data—was the bureaucratic science of cameralism, in which Bronn was steeped as a student and professor at the University of Heidelberg. The second was an earlier tradition of historical visualization popularized by Joseph Priestley and others, which represented time—or the “timeline”—as measured graphical space on the horizontal axis of a chart. In combining the tabular statistical approach of Heidelberg cameralism and the historical timeline, Bronn contributed to the emergence of a powerful new visual language for producing and communicating aggregative statistical generalizations.
Human 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency associated with normal spermatic numeration despite a severe enzyme deficit
Authors: Donadille Bruno , Houang Muriel , Netchine Irène , Siffroi Jean-Pierre , Christin-Maitre Sophie
Published: February 2018

Human 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency (3b-HSD) is a very rare form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia resulting from HSD3B2 gene mutations. The estimated prevalence is less than 1/1,000,000 at birth. It leads to steroidogenesis impairment in both adrenals and gonads. Few data are available concerning adult testicular function in such patients. We had the opportunity to study gonadal axis and testicular function in a 46,XY adult patient, carrying a HSD3B2 mutation. He presented at birth a neonatal salt-wasting syndrome. He had a micropenis, a perineal hypospadias and two intrascrotal testes. HSD3B2 gene sequencing revealed a 687del27 homozygous mutation. The patient achieved normal puberty at the age of 15 years. Transition from the paediatric department occurred at the age of 19 years. His hormonal profile under hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone treatments revealed normal serum levels of 17OH-pregnenolone, as well as SDHEA, ACTH, total testosterone, inhibin B and AMH. Pelvic ultrasound identified two scrotal testes of 21 mL each, without any testicular adrenal rest tumours. His adult spermatic characteristics were normal, according to WHO 2010 criteria, with a sperm concentration of 57.6 million/mL (N > 15), 21% of typical forms (N > 4%). Sperm vitality was subnormal (41%; N > 58%). This patient, in contrast to previous reports, presents subnormal sperm parameters and therefore potential male fertility in a 24-years-old patient with severe 3b-HSD deficiency. This case should improve counselling about fertility of male patients carrying HSD3B2 mutation.
Identification of Two Distinct Classes of the Human INO80 Complex Genome-Wide
Authors: Runge John S , Raab Jesse R , Magnuson Terry
Published: February 2018

Chromatin remodeling and histone modifying enzymes play a critical role in shaping the regulatory output of a cell. Although much is known about these classes of proteins, identifying the mechanisms by which they coordinate gene expression programs remains an exciting topic of investigation. One factor that may contribute to the targeting and activity of chromatin regulators is local chromatin landscape. We leveraged genomic approaches and publically-available datasets to characterize the chromatin landscape at targets of the human INO80 chromatin remodeling complex (INO80-C). Our data revealed two classes of INO80-C targets with distinct chromatin signatures. The predominant INO80-C class was enriched for open chromatin, H3K27ac, and representative subunits from each of the three INO80-C modules (RUVBL1, RUVBL2, MCRS1, YY1). We named this class Canonical INO80. Notably, we identified an unexpected class of INO80-C targets that contained only the INO80 ATPase and harbored a repressive chromatin signature characterized by inaccessible chromatin, H3K27me3, and the methyltransferase EZH2. We named this class Non-Canonical INO80 (NC-INO80). Biochemical approaches indicated that INO80-C and the H3K27 acetyltransferase P300 physically interact, suggesting INO80-C and P300 may jointly coordinate chromatin accessibility at Canonical INO80 sites. No interaction was detected between INO80-C and EZH2, indicating INO80-C and EZH2 may engage in a separate form of regulatory crosstalk at NC-INO80 targets. Our data indicate that INO80-C is more compositionally heterogenous at its genomic targets than anticipated. Moreover, our data suggest there is an important link between INO80-C and histone modifying enzymes that may have consequences in developmental and pathological contexts.
Daya Antioksidan Ekstrak dan Fraksi Daun Kopi Robusta (Coffea Robusta) Terhadap Pereaksi DPPH (2,2-difenil-1-pikrilhidrazil)
Authors: Hasanah Mauizatul , Maharani Bella , Munarsih Ensiwi
Published: February 2018

Radikal bebas memiliki efek menyebabkan terjadinya kerusakan sel dalam tubuh sebagai pemicu berbagai penyakit. Antioksidan diketahui memiliki kemampuan untuk meredam radikal bebas. Telah dilakukan penelitian potensi aktivitas antioksidan dari ekstrak kental dan fraksi daun kopi robusta (Coffea robusta). Ekstraksi dilakukan dengan metode maserasi menggunakan etanol 70 % selama 3 x 5 hari pada suhu ruangan, diperoleh ekstrak kental dengan rendemen 15,9 % b/b. Fraksinasi dilakukan dengan pelarut berdasarkan perbedaan kepolaran diperoleh fraksi n-heksan, fraksi etil asetat dan fraksi air. Uji antioksidan menggunakan alat Spektrofotometer Uv-Vis dengan metode penghambatan radikal bebas DPPH (2,2-Difenil-1-Pikrilhidrazil) terhadap ekstrak kental dan fraksi n-heksan, etil asetat dan air pada beberapa konsentrasi, yaitu 100 ppm, 80 ppm, 60 ppm, 40 ppm, 20 ppm. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan penghambatan radikal bebas (% Inhibisi) ekstrak dan fraksi meningkat sesuai peningkatan konsentrasi uji. Nilai % Inhibisi ekstrak kental, fraksi n-heksan, fraksi etil asetat dan fraksi air, pada konsentrasi 100 ppm berturut-turut adalah 93,7 %, 95,56 %, 69,54 % dan 61,28 %. Hasil perhitungan IC50 yang diperoleh untuk ekstrak kental adalah 43,83 ppm, fraksi n-heksan adalah 38,32 ppm, fraksi etil asetat adalah 37,07 ppm dan fraksi air adalah 73,62 ppm.
Pengelolaan Informasi Kesehatan secara Terintegrasi untuk Memaksimalkan Layanan Kesehatan kepada Pasien di Rumah Sakit
Authors: Azizah Nuzlil Laily Nur , Setiawan M. Very
Published: February 2018

Banyaknya masyarakat yang memperoleh perawatan pada beberapa instansi layanan kesehatan menjadikan adanya alasan mengenai pentingnya kegiatan pengelolaan informasi kesehatan pasien yang terintegrasi. Hal ini berfungsi untuk menyediakan informasi kesehatan secara komprehensif kepada pasien dan staf medis dalam membantu pelayanan kesehatan yang lebih baik. Artikel ini mengkaji elemen-elemen yang diperlukan dan model dalam kegiatan Health Information Management yang terintegrasi. Kajian artikel ini dilakukan secara deskriptif dengan mengkaji 23 literatur yang terbit dari tahun 2007-2017, yang diperoleh dari jurnal-jurnal yang dilanggan perpustakaan UGM, Google Scholar dan PubMed Health, mengenai pengelolaan informasi kesehatan pasien. Hasil penelitian ini menjelaskan bahwa elemen yang diperlukan dalam penerapan Health Information Management yang terintegrasi dapat dibagi ke dalam lima elemen, yaitu: 1. Sumber Daya Manusia, 2. Kebijakan dan kelembagaan, 3. Penerapan sistem, 4. Data dan pengelolaannya, 5. Akses dan integrasi data. Pada model pengelolaan informasi kesehatan pasien yang terintegrasi, harus menyediakan akses terhadap informasi kesehatan pasien dan memungkinkan pertukaran data yang dikelola beberapa petugas medis, pengelola data pasien dan rumah sakit lain. Hal ini didukung oleh sebuah sistem informasi kesehatan yang dilengkapi dengan sistem keamanan data dan adanya dukungan dari kepala rumah sakit.Kata kunci: Pengelolaan informasi kesehatan; layanan kesehatan di rumah sakit; integrasi informasi kesehatan pasien
Peningkatan Kelarutan dan Disolusi Ibuprofen melalui Pembentukan Mikropartikel Metode Emulsification-Ionic-Gelation menggunakan Polivinil Alkohol (PVA) sebagai Polimer Tripolifosfat (TPP) sebagai Agen Crosslink
Authors: Ferdiansyah Rival , Putri Yola Desnera , Hamdani Syarif , Julianto Angga
Published: February 2018

Ibuprofen dikenal sebagai obat antiinflamasi nonsteroid yang digunakan untuk analgetik dan antipiretik dan termasuk obat dengan kelarutan rendah, tetapi memiliki permeabilitas yang tinggi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan ibuprofen dengan kelarutan dan disolusi yang lebih tinggi dengan membentuk mikropartikel menggunakan metode emulsification-ionic gelation. Partikel ibuprofen dikarakterisasi menggunakan Scanning Elektron Microscopy dan Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Kemudian dilakukan uji kelarutan dan uji disolusi ibuprofen. Pengujian karakteristik menggunakan SE, mikropartikel pH 2, pH4, pH 6 mengalami penurunan ukuran partikel berturut-turut sebesar 97,48%, 84%, dan 72% dari ukuran ibuprofen. Kelarutan ibuprofen setelah proses emulsification-ionic-gelation dalam air pada pH 6 meningkat delapan kali, sedangkan disolusi ibuprofen tertinggi ditunjukkan oleh partikel ibuprofen pada formula 3 yang dapat mendisolusi ibuprofen lebih dari 44% dalam 30 menit pada media dapar HCl 0,1N dibandingkan dengan formula yang lain. Kesimpulan yang diperoleh adalah partikel ibuprofen setelah proses emulsification-ionicgelation dapat memperkecil ukuran partikel dan meningkatkan kelarutan tetapi tidak dengan disolusinya.Kata kunci: Ibuprofen, emulsification-ionic-gelation, polivinil alkohol, kelarutan, disolusi
Identification of sibling species in the genus Eucyclops from water-bodies of Ukraine and Russia using crossbreeding studies
Authors: Monchenko V. I. , Gaponova L. P. , Alekseev V. R.
Published: February 2018

Crossbreeding experiments were used to estimate cryptic species in water bodies of Ukraine and Russia because the most useful criterion in species independence is reproductive isolation. The problem of cryptic species in the genus Eucyclops was examined using interpopulation crosses of populations collected from Baltic Sea basin (pond of Strelka river basin) and Black Sea basin (water-reservoires of Dnieper, Dniester and Danube rivers basins). The results of reciprocal crosses in Eucyclops serrulatus-group are shown that E. serrulatus from different populations but from water bodies belonging to the same river basin crossed each others successfully. The interpopulation crosses of E. serrulatus populations collected from different river basins (Dnipro, Danube and Dniester river basins) were sterile. In this group of experiments we assigned evidence of sterility to four categories: 1) incomplete copulation or absence of copulation; 2) nonviable eggs; 3) absence of egg membranes or egg sacs 4) empty egg membranes. These crossbreeding studies suggest the presence of cryptic species in the E. serrulatus inhabiting ecologically different populations in many parts of its range. The same crossbreeding experiments were carries out between Eucyclops serrulatus and morphological similar species – Eucyclops macruroides from Baltic and Black Sea basins. The reciprocal crossings between these two species were sterile. Thus taxonomic heterogeneity among species of genus Eucyclops lower in E. macruroides than in E. serrulatus. The interpopulation crosses of E. macruroides populations collected from distant part of range were fertile. These crossbreeding studies suggest that E. macruroides species complex was evaluated as more stable than E. serrulatus species complex.
«Biological and bioorganic chemistry». 2 Vol. Vol. 1 «Molecular organization of living matter. Metabolisms and bioenergetics». Vol. 2 «Bіоchemical aspects of molecular biology and intercellular communications» / L. I. Ostapchenko, V. K. Rybalchenko
Authors: Severynovska O. V. , Kyrychenko S. V.
Published: February 2018

The article reviews the textbook «Biological and Bioorganic Chemistry», intended for students of biological specialties. The textbook examines the main provisions of static and dynamic biochemistry – the science of the pathways and mechanisms of biochemical processes occurring in the cell. Not only the general characteristics of metabolic activity, but also sections related to the regulation of metabolism and the physiological functions of cells are presented. The mechanisms of global metabolic regulation, which are characteristic for all living organisms, are disclosed. The textbook is intended for students of higher educational institutions receiving education in the areas of «Biology», «Ecology», «Chemical technology and biotechnology»; specialties «Biology», «Physiology», «Microbiology», «Biotechnology», «Molecular biology», «Bioecology». It is of interest for specialists, researchers, postgraduates and doctoral students who need basic biochemical preparation.
REIMPERIALIZACIÓN EN EL ORDEN INTERNACIONAL CONTEMPORÁNEO. RUSIA Y SU RECONSTRUCCIÓN HISTÓRICA
Authors: Patiño Villa Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2018

El final de la Guerra Fría dejó la idea de que Washington quedaba a la cabeza del orden internacional y Rusia dejaba de ser un imperio para ser considerado un Estado-nación, situación que no ha sido aceptada por Moscú. En ese contexto se pretende indagar por el rumbo del orden internacional contemporáneo, creado en 1945 al final de la Segunda Guerra Mundial, y que ha experimentado la más aguda transformación con el proceso de la implosión soviética. Dicha indagación se trabajó con el análisis de fuentes secundarias tales como: investigaciones de expertos, información provista por medios de comunicación de relevancia global y uso de informaciones y datos provenientes de revistas y think tanks especializados. Como conclusiones se destacan: la clara intención de Rusia de evitar acercamientos de la OTAN en sus territorios de interés y la incertidumbre internacional en cuanto al accionar de Washington y su posición geoestratégica respecto a Rusia.
FINANCIAMIENTO PÚBLICO Y SUPERVIVENCIA DE PARTIDOS POLÍTICOS MINORITARIOS EN MÉXICO
Authors: Leyva Cordero Oswaldo , Tamez González Gerardo , Montalvo Herrera Daniela , Ganga Francisco
Published: February 2018

En el presente artículo se aborda el tema del financiamiento público, el cual es un elemento determinante de los partidos políticos para el cumplimiento de sus funciones sociales y políticas. Este, además, permite la existencia de un sistema plural de partidos, donde los partidos políticos minoritarios son fundamentales para el sistema democrático, a fin de que la totalidad de las voces sean escuchadas y representadas. El objetivo es identificar, a través de técnicas cuantitativas, las diferencias de opinión entre los miembros de partidos políticos mayoritarios y minoritarios, sobre las reglas que rigen el reparto de los recursos públicos, con miras a establecer si las condiciones legales aseguran una efectiva distribución y si el financiamiento público constituye un límite para el desarrollo de los partidos minoritarios.
¿VERDAD O FICCIÓN? EL USO POLÍTICO DE LAS REDES SOCIALES EN LA PARTICIPACIÓN POLÍTICA OFFLINE EN LAS ELECCIONES PRESIDENCIALES EN ECUADOR
Authors: Zumárraga Espinosa Marcos , Reyes Valenzuela Carlos , Carofilis Cedeño Cynthia
Published: February 2018

El presente artículo explora la relación entre distintos tipos de uso político de las redes sociales y la participación política offline, así como el efecto político-movilizador diferenciado de las plataformas Facebook, Twitter y WhatsApp en un contexto de elecciones presidenciales en Ecuador. Los resultados confirman que: (i) las redes sociales estimulan la movilización de las personas hacia conductas políticas offline; (ii) este efecto movilizador se limita a las plataformas Facebook y WhatsApp y (iii) los usos políticos de tipo expresivo y de contacto con los grupos políticos influyen con mayor fuerza sobre la participación política offline. Se discuten las implicacionesde estos hallazgos en el marco del debate sobre el efecto movilizador de las redes sociales en el grado de activismo político offline.
LA DEFENSA COLECTIVA DE LA DEMOCRACIA EN AMÉRICA LATINA: ¿POR QUÉ?, ¿CÓMO?, ¿CUÁNDO?
Authors: González Manuel Camilo , Liendo Nicolás Alejandro
Published: February 2018

Este artículo explora los factores que incentivan a las organizaciones regionales a sancionar países que experimentan retrocesos autoritarios en su proceso político. Tomando como caso de estudio las respuestas diplomáticas de la Organización de los Estados Americanos a nueve crisis políticas entre 1990 y 2017, el documento profundiza en las variables determinantes que han permitido la aplicación y efectividad de los distintos mecanismos de protección de la democracia en el hemisferio. El artículo formula tres aportes. Primero, que a mayor número de países democráticos al interior de la Organización, más probable es la aplicación de las sanciones. Segundo, que una conducta multilateral de Estados Unidos es mucho más efectiva que la conducta unilateral para restaurar la democracia. Tercero, que los países con coaliciones de golpe sólidas harán menos efectivas las sanciones.
Efecto antimicrobiano del aceite esencial de Citrus reticulata sobre Fusobacterium nucleatum asociada a enfermedad periodontal
Authors: Pardo Cindy Giohanna , Monsalve Gladys Stella , Tupaz Erira Herlinto Alveiro , Espinosa Villamizar Yeison , Jaramillo Gloria Isabel
Published: February 2018

LLa clorhexidina como tratamiento de la enfermedad periodontal ha logrado efectos bactericidas sobre periodontopatógenos y  biopelícula oral. Su uso genera efectos adversos, por lo tanto se presentan alternativas naturales con efecto antimicrobiano similar. Los aceites esenciales han demostrado efectividad en el control de la placa dental, sin los efectos adversos de la clorhexidina. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el efecto bacteriostático y bactericida del aceite esencial de mandarina contra Fusobacterium nucleatum. Se realizó extracción por expresión del aceite esencial de cáscaras de mandarina (variedades Arrayana y Oneco). Se evaluaron concentraciones al 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% y 100% del aceite esencial diluido en Tween al 0,02%. El efecto bacteriostático y bactericida se determinó por pruebas de sensibilidad antimicrobiana por difusión en disco. Como control positivo se utilizó Clorhexidina 0,2% y agua como control negativo. Se midió halo de inhibición (mm) y se determinó ausencia o presencia de crecimiento bacteriano a partir de unidades formadoras de colonias. Para comparación de proporciones de la actividad bacteriostática y bactericida, se realizó prueba de Fisher y T student (IC 95% p = 0,05). El halo de inhibición a una concentración del 100% mostró comportamiento similar a clorhexidina (p<0,05). Concentraciones al 100% y 80% fueron bactericidas, al 60%, 40% y 20% presentaron comportamiento bacteriostático. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en las proporciones de inhibición entre las dos variedades de mandarina (p>0,05). El uso de aceites esenciales de mandarina podría ser una alternativa complementaria al tratamiento de la enfermedad periodontal.
Respuesta de cultivares de Musa spp. al estrés hídrico in vitro inducido con polietilenglicol 6000
Authors: Moreno-Bermúdez Leonardo Julio , Reyes Maritza , Rodríguez Mayelín , Kosky Rafael G. , Roque Berkis , Chong-Pérez Borys
Published: February 2018

Los plátanos y bananos son cultivos sensibles al déficit hídrico. Las sequías cada vez más prolongadas sugieren la necesidad de obtener plantas tolerantes a este factor; la selección temprana de estas plantas, comparada con la selección en campo, permite ahorrar tiempo y trabajar con mayores volúmenes de individuos. Para ello es conveniente contar con cultivares patrones cuya respuesta al déficit hídrico in vitro sea favorable. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar la respuesta de cultivares de Musa spp. con diferente composición genómica al estrés hídrico inducido in vitro con polietilenglicol 6000 (PEG-6000). Se estudiaron los cultivares ‘Pelipita’ (ABB), ‘Manzano’ (AAB) y ‘Grande naine’ (AAA). El estrés se indujo con 30 g/L de PEG-6000 en medio de cultivo semisólido de multiplicación. A los 30 días se evaluaron variables indicadoras de estrés morfológicas (altura y número de brotes por explante), fisiológicas (masa fresca y masa seca) y bioquímicas (contenido prolina, peróxido de hidrógeno y malondialdehido). En el cultivar ‘Pelipita’ se afectó solamente la altura de las plantas, mientras que en los demás se afectaron todas las variables excepto la masa seca en el ‘Manzano’. En este último y en el ‘Grande naine’ se incrementó la prolina, el peróxido de hidrógeno y el malondialdehido, lo que evidenció un mayor estrés oxidativo y daño en las membranas celulares. Los cultivares estudiados, pudieran emplearse como controles de tolerancia (‘Pelipita’) y sensibilidad (‘Grande naine’ y ‘Manzano’) en la selección in vitro de plantas tolerantes a la sequía, en futuros programas de mejoramiento genético.
Caracterización y efecto de Azotobacter, Azospirillum y Pseudomonas asociadas a Ipomoea Batatas del Caribe Colombiano
Authors: Pérez-Pazos Jazmín Vanessa , Sánchez-López Diana Beatriz
Published: February 2018

El uso de Rizobacterias promotoras de crecimiento vegetal (PGPR, por sus siglas en ingles) constituye una alternativa al uso de fertilizantes químicos favoreciendo el rendimiento de los cultivos. La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo la búsqueda, selección y caracterización de PGPR de los géneros Azotobacter, Azospirillum y Pseudomonas nativas de la rizósfera de cultivos de Ipomoea batatas de zonas productoras representativas del Caribe Colombiano. Los aislados seleccionados se caracterizaron molecularmente y realizaron pruebas de solubilización de fósforo, producción de índoles y reducción de acetileno. Las cepas fueron probadas a nivel de invernadero en plántulas de Ipomoea batatas producidas in vitro en las que se evaluó la altura, longitud radicular, masa seca de la parte aérea y radicular. Asociada a la rizósfera de Ipomoea batatas se obtuvieron cepas de Azotobacter vinelandii, Azotobacter chroococcum, Azospirillum lipoferum, Azospirillum brasilense y Pseudomonas denitrificans, las cepas fueron capaces de solubilizar fósforo, producir índoles y reducir acetileno. Se obtuvo incrementos en parámetros de crecimiento como longitud radicular, altura, peso seco aéreo y radicular en plántulas de Ipomoea batatas en invernadero con la inoculación de las bacterias seleccionadas frente a plántulas sin inocular. Los resultados catalogan a los aislados obtenidos como posibles microorga-nismos con potencial como biofertilizantes en batata.
Efectos de nitratos y sacarosa en la propagación in vitro de tres variedades de papa nativa
Authors: Tacoronte Melangel , Vielma A. María , Olivo Auxiliadora , Chacín Nancy
Published: February 2018

En Venezuela es prioridad rescatar las papas nativas por representar un gran alimento y un valioso recurso genético. Pero, desafortunadamente estas papas fueron desplazadas por variedades comerciales introducidas y las pocas semillas existentes están degeneradas y reutilizadas en continuos ciclos de siembra, No obstante, estandarizar las condiciones del cultivo aséptico es garantía de “semillas” rehabilitadas con mejor calidad fitosanitaria. Se planteó, entonces investigar el efecto de distintas concentraciones de nitratos y sacarosa en la propagación in vitro de variedades venezolanas   ̀̀Cucubaʹ  ̀̀Arbolona Negraʹ y  ̀̀Rosadaʹ. Segmentos uninodales fueron cultivados e incubados en fotoperíodo de16 horas de luz (76 μmol m-2 s-1) y temperatura 19º C ± 1. Fue implementado el diseño estadístico factorial, estableciendo tres tratamientos partiendo del medio básico Murashige & Skoog (MS), sólido. Hubo un efecto significativo entre los tratamiento, al menos una de las medias es diferente a las otras, para las tres variedades la mayor inducción de crecimiento ocurrió, al modificar MS aumentando sus concentraciones de nitrato de amonio a 1,98 g L-1, nitrato de potasio 2,28 g L-1y bajando sacarosa a 20 g L-1, los vástagos desarrollaron 5,82 cm. de longitud promedio y las raíces 3 cm. Mientras, el MS (tratamiento control), presentó vástagos de 2,94cm. longitud promedio y sin enraizar. Entre las variedades ̀̀Cucuba´ obtuvo el mayor crecimiento. Posteriormente, las vitroplántulas resultantes, tratadas en MS líquido, con sacarosa al 8 % fueron inducidas a producir microtubérculos a los 90 días. Obteniendo así resultados prometedores para la propagación in vitro de las papas nativas.
Terapias Celulares y Productos de Ingeniería de Tejidos para el Tratamiento de Lesiones Condrales de Rodilla
Authors: Flórez Cabrera Adriana , González Duque Martha Isabel , Fontanlla Marta Raquel
Published: February 2018

El cartílago articular es un tejido vulnerable a las lesiones de diferente etiología; siendo uno de los más afectados,  el cartílago de la rodilla. Aunque la mayoría de los tratamientos convencionales reducen los síntomas, generalmente conducen a la formación de fibrocartílago; el cual, posee características diferentes a las del cartílago hialino de las articulaciones.  Son pocas las aproximaciones terapéuticas que promueven el  reemplazo del tejido dañado por cartílago hialino funcional; las más exitosas son las denominadas terapias avanzadas, que aplican células y  productos de ingeniería de tejidos con el fin de estimular la regeneración del cartílago. La mayoría de ellas se basan en colocar soportes  hechos con biomateriales de diferente origen, que sembrados o no con células exógenas o endógenas, reemplazan al cartílago dañado y promueven su regeneración. Este  trabajo revisa algunas de las aproximaciones terapéuticas enfocadas en la regeneración del cartílago articular de rodilla; así como, los biomateriales más empleados en la elaboración de soportes para terapia celular e ingeniería de tejido cartilaginoso.
Nutritional and environmental risk factors for breast cancer: a case-control study
Authors: Queiroz Sandra Azevedo , Sousa Iasmin Matias de , Silva Fernanda Rafaella de Melo , Lyra Clelia de Oliveira , Fayh Ana Paula Trussardi
Published: February 2018

AIMS: To investigate the associations between breast cancer diagnosis and nutritional and environmental factors in women from Northeast Brazil.METHODS: A case-control study included women evaluated in two hospitals specialized in cancer treatment. The case group was composed by women with breast cancer whose data were obtained during the hospitalization period for surgical treatment of the disease. The control group was selected in the same hospitals excluding the oncology ward. The following risk factors were investigated: household environmental sanitation, breastfeeding history, social class, smoking exposition, alcohol consumption and family history of cancer. A food frequency questionnaire was completed by the subjects and an evaluation of anthropometric nutritional status was made. Comparison for quantitative variables was performed using independent t-test or Mann-Whitney test. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test were used to compare categorical variables. The estimated risk associated with consumption of nutrients and food groups was assessed by OR, with a 95% confidence interval. In order to assess the effect of possible confounding factors such as excess weight or excessive caloric intake, a multivariate analysis was performed with the variables with p<0.15 in the food consumption analysis. The significance level for all analyses was set at p<0.05.RESULTS: The total sample consisted of 118 women, 59 in each group. Of all environmental risk factors investigated, poor sanitation (OR [odds ratio]=3.2, 95%CI 1.43-7.11) and family history for cancer (OR=3.11, 95%CI 1.42-6.78) were significantly associated with the diagnosis of breast cancer. Regarding anthropometric assessments, overweight or obesity and waist circumference >88cm were more prevalent in the case group (OR=2.70, 95%CI 1.28-5.70 and OR=3.10, 95%CI 1.46-6.56, respectively). Regular consumption of ultra-processed foods was identified as a risk factor for breast cancer (adjusted OR=2.35, 95%CI 1.08-5.12).CONCLUSIONS: Higher consumption of ultra-processed food, presence of overweight or obesity, waist circumference ≥88 cm, poor sanitation, and family history of cancer were risk factors for breast cancer in this sample of women living in Rio Grande do Norte state, Brazil.