bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Çalışma Belgesinin İçeriği
Authors: KAYIK AYDINALP Aslıhan
Published: June 2020

İş ilişkisi kurulurken işverenlerin seçimini etkileyen en önemli faktör işçinin mesleki geçmişidir. Bu bilgileri işçiler, başvuru dosyası ile işverene sunarlar. Hiç şüphesiz ki işçinin mesleki geçmişine ilişkin üçüncü bir kişi özellikle de eski işveren tarafından sunulan bir belgenin etkisi, objektif olduğu varsayımından hareketle daha etkili olmaktadır. Bu ise çoğu zaman önceki işveren ya da amirden alınan bir referans mektubu ile sağlanmaktadır. Hukuk düzenimizde işverenlerin referans mektubu düzenleme yükümlülüğü olmamakla birlikte, bir nevi referans mektubu etkisi yaratan çalışma belgesi düzenle borcu öngörülmüştür. Belge doktrinde çeşitli sınıflandırmalara tabi tutulmuştur. Bu sınıflandırmalardan birinin ölçütünü ise belgenin içeriği oluşturmaktadır. Çalışma belgesinin hukuki dayanaklarında, içeriğe ilişkin genel bilgiler yer almakla birlikte, içeriğe dahil edilmesi gereken unsurların detaylandırılmaya ihtiyacı vardır. İşçiler tarafından işverenin bu borcu çok fazla bilinmediğinden konu yargı kararlarına da olması gerektiği çerçevede taşınmamıştır. Çalışmamızda kısmen çalışma belgesinin ne olduğuna ilişkin bilgilere yer verilmekle birlikte, esasen içeriği konusu incelenmeye çalışılmıştır.
Tespit Edici İşlemlerle Bağlantılı Olarak İdari Yargılama Hukukunda Tespit Davalarının Uygulama Alanı ve Gerekliliği Üzerine Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: KAPLAN Onur , ÜSTÜN Gül
Published: June 2020

İdarenin kamu gücü ayrıcalıklarından yararlanarak tesis ettiği idari işlemlerin hukuk düzeninde etki ve sonuç doğurabilmesi karşısında, bireylerin temel hak ve hürriyetlerinin korunmasında en etkin yol yargısal başvuru olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Bununla birlikte idari yargılama hukukunda dava türlerinin belirli formlarla ifade edilen sınırlı bir yapıda bulunduğu göz önüne alındığında; bu durumun bireylerin etkin bir yargısal yoldan yararlanamaması neticesine yol açacağı da ifade edilebilecektir. Özellikle idari işlemlerin çeşitli konulara yönelmesi ve hukuka uygunluk karinesinden yararlanması karşısında belirli hukuki konuların yargısal yola başvurularak saptanmasında bireylerin hukuki menfaatlerinin bulunduğundan bahsedilebilir. Bu anlamda kamu hukukunu ilgilendiren uyuşmazlıkların idari yargı düzeninde çözümlenmesi gereğine rağmen, idari yargılama hukukunda delil tespiti kurumunun sadece maddi olguların tespitine yönelmesi ve dava türlerinin sınırlı sayıda olduğu görüşü karşısında, söz konusu hukuki menfaatin tam olarak karşılanmasına yönelik herhangi bir hukuki müessesenin bulunmadığı belirtilebilir. Bu doğrultuda, çalışmada öncelikle tespit davası kavramı tanımlanarak uygulama alanı belirtilecek; sonrasında tespit davalarının idari yargılama hukukunda gerekliliği meselesi irdelenecektir.
Alman, İsviçre, Türk Hukuklarında ve Viyana Satım Antlaşması’nda Eksik İfa Karşılaştırmalı Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: GÜVEN Koray
Published: June 2020

İfa etmeme konusunda, BGB, OR ve BK’nın dâhil olduğu 20. yüzyılın büyük kodifikasyonlarında ve bunlarla ilgili öğretide; imkânsızlık, temerrüt, sözleşmenin müspet ihlali gibi dogmatik ayrımlara rastlanmaktadır. Ayrıca bu geleneksel kanunlarda genel hükümler ile satım hukukuna ilişkin özel hükümler arasında; Roma hukuku, ius commune ve Pandekt hukuk biliminin mirasına bağlanabilecek keskin bir ayrım söz konusudur. Diğer kutupta ise, ifa etmeme konusunu yeknesak bir kavram olarak ele almaya yönelik; Viyana Satım Antlaşması (CISG)’nda ve kısmen BGB’nin 2002 Reformu’nda gözlenebilen başka bir yaklaşım öne çıkmaktadır. Bu ikinci yaklaşım; ifa etmeme halleri arasındaki keskin sınırları ortadan kaldırmaya veya silikleştirmeye; tüm sözleşmenin ihlali hallerini yeknesak bir sorumluluk rejimine tâbi kılmak için genel hükümler ile özel hükümler arasında köprü kurmaya yönelmektedir. İlk yaklaşım ‘eksik ifayı’, eksik ifanın doğasına göre genellikle genel hükümler ve bazen de satım hukukuna ilişkin özel hükümler altında, iki biçimde ele alırken; ikinci yaklaşım kapsamlı bir uygun olmama/ayıp kavramı benimseyerek, eksik ifayı daha tutarlı ve kapsayıcı bir biçimde düzenlemekten yana görünür. Ancak bu iki yaklaşımın somut olarak da, teorik altyapılarına uygun şekilde birbirlerinden ayrılan sonuçlar verip vermedikleri de araştırılmalıdır. Bu çalışmanın ilk kısmında iki yaklaşımın ayrışan teorik altyapıları ortaya konulacaktır. İkinci kısımda ise yaklaşımlar, yöneldikleri somut sonuçlar bakımından karşılaştırılacaktır.
Türk İş Hukukunda Süt İzni
Authors: ERENER YILMAZ Ebru
Published: June 2020

Kadınların çalışan olma ve annelik rollerinin kesiştiği noktalarda iş hayatında bazı özel düzenleme ve haklara ihtiyaç duyulmaktadır. Hukukumuzda bu haklardan biri, 1 yaşın altında çocuğu olan kadın işçilere günlük bir buçuk saat olarak tanınan süt iznidir. Hukuki tarihi 1930 yılına kadar dayanan süt izni, günümüze kadar pek çok değişim ve ilerleme göstermiştir ancak diğer bütün ebeveyn izinlerinde olduğu gibi modern çağın yeni anlayışlarıyla birlikte halen bazı değişimlere ihtiyaç duymaktadır. Bu çalışmada süt iznine ilişkin mevcut düzenlemeler birtakım değişiklik önerileriyle birlikte ele alınmaya çalışılmıştır.
ARTTIRILMIŞ GERÇEKLİK İLE SCRUM TASK BOARD UYGULAMASI
Authors: BORANDAG Emin , YÜCALAR Fatih
Published: June 2020

Yazılım geliştirme teknolojilerinde yaşanan
gelişmeler, yazılımların geliştirilmesinde kullanılan yazılım yaşam
döngülerinin sürelerinin kısalması, yazılımlardaki kapsamın ve gereksinimlerin
artması ile beraber farklı çevik yazılım geliştirme yaklaşımlarını ortaya çıkarmıştır.
Çalışmada bir çevik yazılım geliştirme yöntemi olan SCRUM detaylı olarak
anlatılmış ve farklı teknolojilere göre geliştirilen web ve arttırılmış
gerçeklik temelli iki SCRUM Görev Tahtası uygulamasının kullanımı ile elde
edilen sonuçlara yer verilmiştir. Geliştirilen arttırılmış gerçeklik temelli Scrum
Görev Tahtası uygulaması, web-tabanlı Scrum uygulamasının gerçekleştirdiği
işlemleri yapabilmektedir. Geliştirilen her iki uygulama karşılaştırıldığında,
web-tabanlı Scrum Görev Tahtası uygulamasının AR tabanlı Scrum Görev Tahtası
uygulamasına göre kullanımının daha kolay olduğu, daha az teknoloji ve teknik
bilgi gerektirdiği görülmüştür.
Pelatihan Menanam Kangkung dengan Sistem Hidroponik WICK di Kelurahan Tampa Garam Distrik Maladum Mes Kota Sorong
Authors: Fajeriana Nurul
Published: June 2020

Kelurahan Tampa Garam yang wilayahnya berada di wilayah pesisir Kota Sorong dengan keterbatasan pada jenis tanah, curah hujan yang tinggi, topografi dari landai hinga curam, kepemilikan lahan,Â  menjadi sulit untuk budidaya dalam bentuk pertanian konvensional. Sehingga untuk dapat memenuhi kemandirian pangan dalam hal sayuran maka dilakukan pelatihan budidaya kangkung dengan teknik hidroponik WICK yang lebih mudah dan murah. Kegiatan Pelatihan dilaksanakan pada hari Kamis, 25 April 2019 pukul 14.00 - 17.25 WIT, bertempat di Kantor Kelurahan Tampa Garam. Adapun peserta pelatihan terdiri dari ibu-ibu rumah tangga, anggota PKK Kelurahan Tampa Garam,dan juga bapak-bapak yang tidak ketinggalan turut ambil bagian dalam pelatihan. Total peserta pelatihan yakni 68 orang. Pelatihan dilakukan dengan memulai pemaparan atau pengenalan tentang Pertanian Hidroponik, yang dilajutkan dengan mempraktekkan tahapan budidaya, mulai dari cara melarutkan Pupuk ABmix, cara menyemai benih kangkung, dan cara menanam dengan teknik hidroponik WICK. Setelah mempratekkan, peserta kemudian diberi kesempatan untuk mencontohkan setiap tahapan. Antusiame warga yang luar biasa dalam pelatihan budidaya dengan teknik hidroponik yang merupakan hal yang baru bagi peserta sehingga seringkali tejadi diskusi disela-sela praktek yang dilakukan, dan pemateri masih terus mendampingi bahkan selalu mengulang rangkaian proses hingga peserta benar-benar mahir dan bisa melakukannya sendiri di rumah. Pelatihan dengan hidroponik WICK tidak memerlukan lahan yang luas melainkan pekarangan sempit yang dimiliki warga, sehingga tetap bisa bercocok tanam dan proses perawatan yang gampang dengan produksi yang banyak biasa membantu warga dalam menghemat pengeluaran atau belanja akan sayuran.Â Â
Peran Pendidikan di Era Milenial
Authors: Saputra Dian , Said Erpin , Maipauw Niny Jeni
Published: June 2020

Pendidikan merupakan sarana untuk mencapai proses keilmuan yang memadai, namun masih banyak kalangan yang belum memanfaatkan sarana tersebut untuk mengasah dan meningkatkan kapasitas dirinya. Melalui program Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat (PKM) dalam hal ini tersaji kedalam bentuk seminar dengan tema â€œPendidikan Era Milenial untuk Siswa SMP Negeri 7 Tanjung Kasuari Di Kelurahan Suprau Distrik Maladomes Kota Sorong bertujuan agar memberikan informasi kepada siswa/i SMP tentang pentingnya pendidikan dan mudahnya mencapai cita-cita melalui pendidikan. Oleh karena itu, peran dari semua pemangku kepentingan dapat lebih turut andil dalam menciptakan sarana dan prasarana yang memadai guna membantu peserta didik memperoleh pendidikan yang terarah dan baik. Kegiatan ini meliputi beberapa aktifitas diantaranya; diawali dengan memberikan motivasi, demonstrasi dan tanya jawab kepada peserta seminar. Dalam pelaksanaannya program ini menunjukkan beberapa capaian positif diantaranya; antusiasme peserta dalam mengikuti seminar, menumbuhkan minat belajar peserta dan terserapnya informasi baru tentang adanya program beasiswa bagi putra-putri Papua. Adapun harapannya kedepan dengan adanya program Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat dapat lebih memberikan manfaat yang nyata dan membantu meningkatkan sumber daya manusia di Kelurahan Suprau khususnya dan Kota Sorong seluruhnya.
Acute Antiapoptotic Effects of Hydrocortisone in the Hippocampus of Neonatal Rats
Authors: MENSHANOV P. N. , BANNOVA A. V. , BULYGINA V. V. , DYGALO N. N.
Published: June 2020

Natural glucocorticoid hydrocortisone was suggested as a potent substitution for dexamethasone in the treatment of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in neonates. The aim of this study was to investigate whether hydrocortisone is able to affect the expression of apoptotic genes and the intensity of naturally occurring cell death in the developing rat hippocampus. Hormone treatment decreased procaspase-3 and active caspase-3 levels as well as DNA fragmentation intensity in the hippocampal formation of one-week-old rats in 6 h after injection. These changes were accompanied by an upregulation of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-XL, while expression of proapoptotic protein Bax remained unchanged. The action of hydrocortisone was glucocorticoid receptor-independent, as the selective glucocorticoid receptor agonist dexamethasone did not affect either apoptotic protein levels or DNA fragmentation intensity in the hippocampal region. The data are the first evidences for in vivo antiapoptotic effects of hydrocortisone in the developing hippocampus.
Application of the Optical Method in Experimental Cardiology: Action Potential and Intracellular Calcium Concentration Measurement
Authors: RONZHINA M. , ČMIEL V. , JANOUŠEK O. , KOLÁŘOVÁ J. , NOVÁKOVÁ M. , BABULA P. , PROVAZNÍK I.
Published: June 2020

It has been shown that, in addition to conventional contact electrode techniques, optical methods using fluorescent dyes can be successfully used for cardiac signal measurement. In this review, the physical and technical fundamentals of the method are described, as well as the properties of the most common systems for measuring action potentials and intracellular calcium concentration. Special attention is paid to summarizing limitations and trends in developing this method.
Upper Airway Dilator Muscle Weakness Following Intermittent and Sustained Hypoxia in the Rat: Effects of a Superoxide Scavenger
Authors: SKELLY J. R. , ROWAN S. C. , JONES J. F. X. , O’HALLORAN K. D.
Published: June 2020

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is a common disorder associated with upper airway muscle dysfunction. Agents that improve respiratory muscle performance may have considerable therapeutic value. We examined the effects of acute exposure to sustained and intermittent hypoxia on rat pharyngeal dilator muscle function. Additionally, we sought to test the efficacy of antioxidant treatment in ameliorating or preventing hypoxia-related muscle dysfunction. Isometric contractile and endurance properties of isolated rat sternohyoid muscle bundles were examined at 35 °C in vitro. Muscle bundles were exposed to one of four gas treatments: hyperoxia (control), sustained hypoxia (SH), intermittent hypoxia (IH) or hypoxia/re-oxygenation (HR), in the absence or presence of the superoxide scavenger – Tempol (10 mM). Stress-frequency relationship was determined in response to electrical stimulation (10-100 Hz in increments of 10-20 Hz, train duration: 300 ms). Muscle performance was also assessed during repetitive muscle stimulation (40 Hz, 300 ms every 2 s for 2.5 min). Compared to control, IH and HR treatments significantly decreased sternohyoid muscle force. The negative inotropic effect of the two gas protocols was similar, but both were of lesser magnitude than the effects of SH. SH, but not IH and HR, increased muscle fatigue. Tempol significantly increased sensitivity to stimulation in all muscle preparations and caused a leftward shift in the stress-frequency relationship of IH and SH treated muscles. Tempol did not ameliorate sternohyoid muscle fatigue during SH. We conclude that Tempol increases upper airway muscle sensitivity to stimulation but only modestly ameliorates respiratory muscle weakness during intermittent and sustained hypoxic conditions in vitro. Respiratory muscle fatigue during sustained hypoxia appears unrelated to oxidative stress.
An inquiry into Performance Reports of Municipalities in Terms of Fulfilment of Accountability Requirement: the Case of Turkey
Authors: KÜÇÜKAYCAN Durdane
Published: June 2020

This study seeks to analyze the level of accountability of the municipalities in their performance reports by use of the data and information contained in the performance auditing reports of the municipalities in Turkey. To this end, a specific method has been devised to determine the level of accountability of the audited municipalities with reference to the performance auditing reports of 2015. Based on the findings, the municipalities are ranked in terms of their performance, from the highest point to the lowest. The ranking reveals that the metropolitan cities and their district municipalities are more successful than the provincial municipalities. The study further reveals that the age of the mayor and the geographical location have a determinative effect upon the level of accountability as exhibited in the performance reports.
Active Participation, Insignificant Gains: The Elusiveness of Gender Equality for African Women in the Liberal Global Economy
Authors: Okome Mojubaolu
Published: June 2020

By the mid-C20th, feminist analysis began acknowledging the active participation of African women in their countries’ economic systems as producers. However, historically, gains from trade devolve disproportionately to men, a problem compounded by the dominance of governance institutions locally, nationally, regionally and globally by men. Unfortunately, contemporary awareness of uneven gains from trade hasn’t produced transformation in the global political economy. These disparities have extraordinary distributional consequences for gender equality. They stimulate differential responses between economic sectors, producers, and regions, between the Global North and South, as well as between and within African countries. Advancements in trade and the profitability therefrom generate prodigious wealth. Given wide acknowledgment of the need for gender equity and equality, why are disparities in gains from trade still heavily weighted towards men? This paper examines African women’s continued parlous gains plus domestic and international causes and consequences of their marginalization. It also suggests remedies.
About classification of wheeled vehicles of category L
Authors: Bregida Fedir , Danko Andrii , Merzhievsky Valentyn , Pinchuk Viktor , Ponomareva Yuliya , Ryndin Yurii
Published: June 2020

A new classification of L-category vehicles needed to be approved is proposed, harmonized with European Union legislation.
Keywords: categories, subcategories, criteria, propulsion (electric engine, heat engine, flywheel, hybrid (microhybrid, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, range extender battery)), weeled running gear, electric vehicle, high voltage.
Compatibility between “Arbequina” and “Souri” Olive Cultivars May Increase Souri Fruit Set
Authors: Biton Iris , Many Yair , Mazen Ali , Ben-Ari Giora
Published: June 2020

The “Souri” olive cultivar, which is autochthonous to the eastern Mediterranean region, has been the major olive variety cultivated traditionally under rain-fed conditions in northern Israel. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal pollen donor for the olive cultivar Souri in order to maximize Souri fruit set. Artificial cross pollination of Souri flowers with several local varieties has identified the “Nabali” as the most efficient pollinizer of the Souri. However, further experiments using artificial cross pollination conducted with cultivars not common to this region have revealed the “Arbequina” as a more efficient pollinizer of the Souri cultivar than the Nabali. Based on a preliminary paternity analysis, the Nabali was identified as the dominant pollinizer of Souri trees in traditional olive orchards in the north of Israel. However, in a multi-variety orchard, molecular paternity analysis has shown Arbequina to be the most frequent pollinizer. We then tested, during two consecutive years, whether the presence of a pollen-producing Arbequina tree adjoining Souri trees in the field will increase their fruit set. We found that Souri fruit set was 8.36% when pollinized by an Arbequina tree in close proximity to them, significantly higher than the fruit set of 5.6% for Souri trees without the nearby Arbequina cultivar. On the basis of these trials, we expect that the yield of Souri orchards will improve if Arbequina trees are planted.
Biostimulatory Action of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Enhances Productivity, Functional and Sensory Quality in ‘Piennolo del Vesuvio’ Cherry Tomato Landraces
Authors: Carillo Petronia , Kyratzis Angelos , Kyriacou Marios C. , Dell’Aversana Emilia , Fusco Giovanna Marta , Corrado Giandomenico , Rouphael Youssef
Published: June 2020

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are a promising tool to improve plant nutrient use efficiency (NUE) and tolerance against abiotic stresses. Moreover, AMF can potentially increase plant productivity and reduce the negative externalities of the agricultural sector. Our study aimed to elucidate whether AMF (containing Rhizoglomus irregulare and Funneliformis mosseae) could positively affect not only tomato growth and productivity but also the nutritional and nutraceutical quality of yellow-pigmented type (‘Giagiù’) and red-pigmented type (‘Lucariello’) tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.). These cherry tomatoes are landraces of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) ‘Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio’ (PPV), one of the most typical agricultural products of the Campania region (Southern Italy). AMF rose fruit yield by increasing the number of fruits per plant (+49% and +29% in ‘Giagiù’ and ‘Lucariello’, respectively) but not of the fruit mean mass. AMF increased lycopene (+40%), total ascorbic acid (TAA; +41%), alanine (+162%), gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA; +101%) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs; +53%) in ‘Lucariello’. In ‘Giagiù’, AMF increased calcium (+63%), zinc (+45%), ASP (+70%), GABA (+53%) and the essential amino acids arginine (+58%) and lysine (+45%), also indicating a genotype-specific response. In both landraces, AMF improved nutrient uptake and biosynthesis of important molecules involved in the control the oxidative stress and cellular pH. In addition to the beneficial effects of human health, the molecules influenced by the AMF treatment are expected to extend the shelf life of tomato fruits, thus further promoting the useful agronomic application of AMF for premium tomatoes marketed fresh or in pendulums (‘piennoli’).
A Noncontact Method for Calibrating the Angle and Position of the Composite Module Array
Authors: Li Xinghua , Li Jue , Wei Xuan , Yang Xiaohuan , Su Zhikun , Liang Jiaqi , Yang Zhiming , Fang Fengzhou
Published: June 2020

Freeform surface is one of the research focuses in the measurement field. A composite module is composed of a plane and rotating paraboloid. The composite module array can identify 21 geometric errors of the machine tool in a wide range, which is composed of several composite modules. Eliminating the error of the array itself is of great significance for improving measurement accuracy. For this reason, this paper proposed a noncontact method for calibrating the angle and position of the composite module array. This paper used a self-developed angle sensor to access corresponding information and established the mathematical model according to the freeform surface’s geometric characteristics to achieve calibration. In addition, the influence of array placement error on calibration was analyzed. The experimental results showed that the angle repeatability was within 0.4″ around the X-axis and within 0.3″ around the Y-axis, and the position repeatability was within 0.4 µm in the X direction and within 0.7 µm in the Y direction. The measurement comparison experiments with high-precision laser interferometer and uncalibrated array verified the correctness of the experimental results. This method provides an important reference for practical application and freeform surface array calibration, and creates conditions for the implementation of machine tool error detection.
Role of Internal Stress in the Early-Stage Nucleation of Amorphous Calcium Carbonate Gels
Authors: Zhou Qi , Du Tao , Guo Lijie , Sant Gaurav , Bauchy Mathieu
Published: June 2020

Although calcium carbonate (CaCO3) precipitation plays an important role in nature, its mechanism remains only partially understood. Further understanding the atomic driving force behind the CaCO3 precipitation could be key to facilitate the capture, immobilization, and utilization of CO2 by mineralization. Here, based on molecular dynamics simulations, we investigate the mechanism of the early-stage nucleation of an amorphous calcium carbonate gel. We show that the gelation reaction manifests itself by the formation of some calcium carbonate clusters that grow over time. Interestingly, we demonstrate that the gelation reaction is driven by the existence of some competing local molecular stresses within the Ca and C precursors, which progressively get released upon gelation. This internal molecular stress is found to originate from the significantly different local coordination environments exhibited by Ca and C atoms. These results highlight the key role played by the local stress acting within the atomic network in governing gelation reactions.
Anomaly Detection in a Logistic Operating System Using the Mahalanobis–Taguchi Method
Authors: Asakura Takumi , Yashima Wataru , Suzuki Kouki , Shimotou Makoto
Published: June 2020

Product delivery via logistic systems is becoming more efficient, rapidly and continuously bringing products to the customer. The continuous operation of logistic equipment, however, can lead to mechanical stoppages due to excessive use. To avoid system failures, fatigue in each part of the system should be monitored, enabling the accurate prediction of potential stoppages and thus promoting overall system efficiency. To date, various kinds of anomaly-detection methodologies have been proposed. Among them, the Mahalanobis–Taguchi method, which simply describes the extent of a failure using the Mahalanobis distance, has been utilized to detect changes in the mechanical condition of facilities. However, the technique has not yet been applied to anomaly detection in a logistic operating system. In this paper, anomaly detection using the Mahalanobis–Taguchi method targeting the operational characteristics of a large-scale vertical transfer system is proposed and the validity of the method is discussed. The calculation used to produce proper values of the Mahalanobis distance is first developed based on simple excitation using a shaker. Mahalanobis distances under conditions of continuous operation of the target vertical transfer system are then obtained; distances for the system in an artificially damaged condition are compared to values produced under normal conditions, and any significant increase is used as an indicator of a problem. The applicability of the approach to a case involving continuous long-term operation is discussed using a simulation in which the target vertical transfer system is in continuous operation over a two-year period.
Power Loss Analysis and a Control Strategy of an Active Cell Balancing System Based on a Bidirectional Flyback Converter
Authors: Lee Yu-Lin , Lin Chang-Hua , Yang Shih-Jen
Published: June 2020

This research proposes a power loss analysis and a control strategy of an active cell balancing system based on a bidirectional flyback converter. The system aims to achieve an energy storage application with cells connected in 6 series and 1 parrarel (6S1P) design. To reduce the structural complexity, Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET) array commonly used in balancing system is replaced with the photovoltaic Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (photoMOS) array. Power loss analysis is utilized for the system operating in the proper current to reach higher efficiency. The proposed loss models are divided into conduction loss, switching loss, and copper and core loss of the transformer. Besides, the models are used to estimate the loss of converter operating in different balance conditions to evaluate the system efficiency and verified by the implemented balancing circuit. By way of the loss models, the balancing current can be determined to reach higher efficiency of the proposed system. For further improvement of the balancing process, the system has also applied a control strategy to enhance the balancing performance that reduces 50% maximum voltage difference than traditional cell-to-pack architecture, and 47% balancing duration than traditional pack-to-cell architecture.
Time-Dependent Downscaling of PM2.5 Predictions from CAMS Air Quality Models to Urban Monitoring Sites in Budapest
Authors: Varga-Balogh Adrienn , Leelőssy Ádám , Lagzi István , Mészáros Róbert
Published: June 2020

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, has been facing serious air pollution episodes in the heating season similar to other metropolises. In the city a dense urban air quality monitoring network is available; however, air quality prediction is still challenging. For this purpose, 24-h PM2.5 forecasts obtained from seven individual models of the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) were downscaled by using hourly measurements at six urban monitoring sites in Budapest for the heating season of 2018–2019. A 10-day long training period was applied to fit spatially consistent model weights in a linear combination of CAMS models for each day, and the 10-day additive bias was also corrected. Results were compared to the CAMS ensemble median, the 10-day bias-corrected CAMS ensemble median, and the 24-h persistence. Downscaling reduced the root mean square error (RMSE) by 1.4 µg/m3 for the heating season and by 4.3 µg/m3 for episodes compared to the CAMS ensemble, mainly by eliminating the general underestimation of PM2.5 peaks. As a side-effect, an overestimation was introduced in rapidly clearing conditions. Although the bias-corrected ensemble and model fusion had similar overall performance, the latter was more efficient in episodes. Downscaling of the CAMS models was found to be capable and necessary to capture high wintertime PM2.5 concentrations for the short-range air quality prediction in Budapest.
Termite Societies Promote the Taxonomic and Functional Diversity of Archaeal Communities in Mound Soils
Authors: Wakung’oli Monde , Amoo Adenike Eunice , Enagbonma Ben Jesuorsemwen , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: June 2020

Recent studies involving microbial communities in termite mounds have been more focused on bacteria and fungi with little attention given to archaea, which play significant roles in nutrient cycling. Thus, we aimed at characterizing the archaeal taxonomic and functional diversity in two termite mound soils using the shotgun sequencing method with the assumption that termite activities could promote archaeal diversity. Our findings showed that termite mound soils have archaeal groups that are taxonomically different from their surrounding soils, with Euryarchaeota, Korarchaeota, and Nanoarchaeota being predominant while Thaumarchaeota and Crenarchaeota were predominant in the surrounding soils. Additionally, the observed nutrient pathways: phosphorus, nitrogen, and sulfur were all significantly more predominant in termite mound soils than in their comparative surrounding soils. Alpha diversity showed that archaea were not significantly different within termite mound soils and the surrounding soils. The beta diversity revealed significant differences in the archaeal taxonomic composition and their functional categories between the termite mounds and surrounding soils. Our canonical correspondence analysis revealed that the distribution of archaeal communities was likely dependent on the soil properties. Our results suggested that termite activities may promote the diversity of archaea; with some of our sequences grouped as unclassified archaea, there is a need for further research to unveil their identity.
The English (H6R) Mutation of the Alzheimer’s Disease Amyloid-β Peptide Modulates Its Zinc-Induced Aggregation
Authors: Radko Sergey P. , Khmeleva Svetlana A. , Kaluzhny Dmitry N. , Kechko Olga I. , Kiseleva Yana Y. , Kozin Sergey A. , Mitkevich Vladimir A. , Makarov Alexander A.
Published: June 2020

The coordination of zinc ions by histidine residues of amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) plays a critical role in the zinc-induced Aβ aggregation implicated in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. The histidine to arginine substitution at position 6 of the Aβ sequence (H6R, English mutation) leads to an early onset of AD. Herein, we studied the effects of zinc ions on the aggregation of the Aβ42 peptide and its isoform carrying the H6R mutation (H6R-Aβ42) by circular dichroism spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, turbidimetric and sedimentation methods, and bis-ANS and thioflavin T fluorescence assays. Zinc ions triggered the occurrence of amorphous aggregates for both Aβ42 and H6R-Aβ42 peptides but with distinct optical properties. The structural difference of the formed Aβ42 and H6R-Aβ42 zinc-induced amorphous aggregates was also supported by the results of the bis-ANS assay. Moreover, while the Aβ42 peptide demonstrated an increase in the random coil and β-sheet content upon complexing with zinc ions, the H6R-Aβ42 peptide showed no appreciable structural changes under the same conditions. These observations were ascribed to the impact of H6R mutation on a mode of zinc/peptide binding. The presented findings further advance the understanding of the pathological role of the H6R mutation and the role of H6 residue in the zinc-induced Aβ aggregation.
Effectiveness and Healthcare Cost of Adding Trastuzumab to Standard Chemotherapy for First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Gastric Cancer: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Franchi Matteo , Tritto Roberta , Torroni Lorena , Reno Chiara , La Vecchia Carlo , Corrao Giovanni
Published: June 2020

A randomized clinical trial showed that trastuzumab, added to traditional chemotherapy, significantly improved overall survival in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-overexpressing metastatic gastric cancer patients. This population-based study aimed at evaluating both the clinical and economic impact of trastuzumab in a real-world setting. By using the healthcare utilization databases of Lombardy, Italy, a cohort of patients newly diagnosed with metastatic gastric cancer during the period 2011–2016 was selected. Among these, patients initially treated with either trastuzumab-based chemotherapy or standard chemotherapy alone were followed up until death, migration in other regions or June 2018. Overall survival and average cumulative costs were estimated and compared between the two treatment arms. Among the 1198 metastatic gastric cancer patients who started therapy within six months after metastasis detection, 87 were initially treated with trastuzumab-based chemotherapy and 1111 with standard chemotherapy. Median overall survival and restricted mean survival were 10.2 and 7.4 months, and 14.9 and 11.4 months, respectively, in the two treatment arms. The adjusted hazard ratio of death was 0.73 (95% CI 0.57–0.93). The average per capita cumulative healthcare costs were, respectively, EUR 39,337 and 26,504, corresponding to an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of EUR 43,998 for each year of survival gained. Our study shows that adding trastuzumab to conventional chemotherapy is effective and cost-effective.
Molecular Basis for Ser/Thr Specificity in PKA Signaling
Authors: Knape Matthias J. , Wallbott Maximilian , Burghardt Nicole C. G. , Bertinetti Daniela , Hornung Jan , Schmidt Sven H. , Lorenz Robin , Herberg Friedrich W.
Published: June 2020

cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) is the major receptor of the second messenger cAMP and a prototype for Ser/Thr-specific protein kinases. Although PKA strongly prefers serine over threonine substrates, little is known about the molecular basis of this substrate specificity. We employ classical enzyme kinetics and a surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based method to analyze each step of the kinase reaction. In the absence of divalent metal ions and nucleotides, PKA binds serine (PKS) and threonine (PKT) substrates, derived from the heat-stable protein kinase inhibitor (PKI), with similar affinities. However, in the presence of metal ions and adenine nucleotides, the Michaelis complex for PKT is unstable. PKA phosphorylates PKT with a higher turnover due to a faster dissociation of the product complex. Thus, threonine substrates are not necessarily poor substrates of PKA. Mutation of the DFG+1 phenylalanine to β-branched amino acids increases the catalytic efficiency of PKA for a threonine peptide substrate up to 200-fold. The PKA Cα mutant F187V forms a stable Michaelis complex with PKT and shows no preference for serine versus threonine substrates. Disease-associated mutations of the DFG+1 position in other protein kinases underline the importance of substrate specificity for keeping signaling pathways segregated and precisely regulated.
A Review on Notch Signaling and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Tyagi Ashish , Sharma Arun K. , Damodaran Chendil
Published: June 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has one of the highest mortality rates despite the advancement of treatment options. Aggressive CRC remains difficult to treat owing to the activation of oncogenic signaling pathways such as the Notch signaling pathway. The role of Notch receptors varies according to the difference in their structures; in particular, aberrant activation of Notch1 has been attributed to the severity of CRC. Notch1 activation in CRC is inhibited by small molecule inhibitors that target γ-secretase, an enzyme responsible for the third and last cleavage step of Notch receptors. γ-Secretase also produces the intracellular domain that finally carries out cellular functions by activating downstream effectors. However, most inhibitors block γ-secretase non-selectively and cause severe toxicity. Plant-source-derived small molecules, monoclonal antibodies, biological molecules (such as SiRNAs), and compounds targeting the Notch1 receptor itself or the downstream molecules such as HES1 are some of the options that are in advanced stages of clinical trials. The Negative Regulatory Region (NRR), which plays a central role in the transduction of Notch1 signaling in the event of ligand-dependent and ligand-independent Notch1 processing is also being targeted specifically by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to prevent aberrant Notch1 activation. In this review, we discuss the role of Notch1 in CRC, particularly its metastatic phenotype, and how mutations in Notch1, specifically in its NRR region, contribute to the aberrant activation of Notch1 signaling, which, in turn, contributes to CRC pathogenesis. We also discuss prevailing and emerging therapies that target the Notch1 receptor and the NRR region, and we highlight the potential of these therapies in abrogating Notch signaling and, thus, CRC development and progression.
An Artificial Intelligence Approach for Italian EVOO Origin Traceability through an Open Source IoT Spectrometer
Authors: Violino Simona , Ortenzi Luciano , Antonucci Francesca , Pallottino Federico , Benincasa Cinzia , Figorilli Simone , Costa Corrado
Published: June 2020

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) represents a crucial ingredient of the Mediterranean diet. Being a first-choice product, consumers should be guaranteed its quality and geographical origin, justifying the high purchasing cost. For this reason, it is important to have new reliable tools able to classify products according to their geographical origin. The aim of this work was to demonstrate the efficiency of an open source visible and near infra-red (VIS-NIR) spectrophotometer, relying on a specific app, in assessing olive oil geographical origin. Thus, 67 Italian and 25 foreign EVOO samples were analyzed and their spectral data were processed through an artificial intelligence algorithm. The multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) results reported significant differences (p < 0.001) between the Italian and foreign EVOO VIS-NIR matrices. The artificial neural network (ANN) model with an external test showed a correct classification percentage equal to 94.6%. Both the MANOVA and ANN tested methods showed the most important spectral wavelengths ranges for origin determination to be 308–373 nm and 594–605 nm. These are related to the absorption of phenolic components, carotenoids, chlorophylls, and anthocyanins. The proposed tool allows the assessment of EVOO samples’ origin and thus could help to preserve the “Made in Italy” from fraud and sophistication related to its commerce.
Quantification of Polyphenols and Metals in Chinese Tea Infusions by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Pinto Gabriella , Illiano Anna , Carpentieri Andrea , Spinelli Michele , Melchiorre Chiara , Fontanarosa Carolina , di Serio Martino , Amoresano Angela
Published: June 2020

Chemical compounds within tea (Camellia sinensis) are characterized by an extensive heterogeneity; some of them are crucial for their protective and defensive role in plants, and are closely connected to the benefits that the consumption of tea can provide. This paper is mainly focused on the characterization of polyphenols (secondary metabolites generally involved in defense against ultraviolet radiation and aggression by pathogens) and metals, extracted from nine Chinese tea samples, by integrating different mass spectrometry methodologies, LC-MS/MS in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Our approach allowed to identify and compare forty polyphenols differently distributed in tea infusions at various fermentation levels. The exploration of polyphenols with nutraceutical potential in tea infusions can widely benefit especially tea-oriented populations. The worldwide consumption of tea requires at the same time a careful monitoring of metals released during the infusion of tea leaves. Metal analysis can provide the identification of many healthy minerals such as potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, differently affected by the fermentation of leaves. Our results allowed us: (i) to draw up a polyphenols profile of tea leaves subjected to different fermentation processes; (ii) to identify and quantify metals released from tea leaves during infusion. In this way, we obtained a molecular fingerprint useful for both nutraceutical applications and food control/typization, as well as for frauds detection and counterfeiting.
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Associated with Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Diseases (PGT-M) in a Romanian Carrier Couple for Congenital Disorder of Glycosylation Type Ia (CDG-Ia): A Case Report
Authors: Doroftei Bogdan , Nemtanu Loredana , Ilie Ovidiu-Dumitru , Simionescu Gabriela , Ivanov Iuliu , Anton Emil , Puiu Maria , Maftei Radu
Published: June 2020

Background: Congenital disorder of glycosylation (CDG) is a severe morphogenic and metabolic disorder that affects all of the systems of organs and is caused by a mutation of the gene PMM2, having a mortality rate of 20% during the first months of life. Results: Here we report the outcome of an in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle associated with preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic diseases (PGT-M) in a Romanian carrier couple for CDG type Ia with distinct mutations of the PMM2 gene. The embryonic biopsy was performed on day five of the blastocyst stage for six embryos. The amplification of the whole genome had been realized by using the PicoPLEX WGA kit. Using the Array Comparative Genomic Hybridisation technique, we detected both euploid and aneuploid embryos. The identification of the PMM2 mutation on exon 5 and exon 6 was performed for the euploid embryos through Sanger Sequencing with specific primers on ABI 3500. Of the six embryos tested, only three were euploid. One had compound heterozygosity and the remaining two were simple heterozygotes. Conclusion: PGT-M should be strongly considered for optimising embryo selection in partners with single-gene mutations in order to prevent transmission to the offspring.
The Clinical Frailty Scale: Do Staff Agree?
Authors: Young Rebekah L. , Smithard David G.
Published: June 2020

The term frailty is being increasingly used by clinicians, however there is no strict consensus on the best screening method. The expectation in England is that all older patients should have the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) completed on admission. This will frequently rely on junior medical staff and nurses, raising the question as to whether there is consistency. We asked 124 members of a multidisciplinary team (consultants, junior doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals; physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, speech and language therapists) to complete the CFS for seven case scenarios. The majority of the participants, 91/124 (72%), were trainee medical staff, 16 were senior medical staff, 12 were allied health professions, and 6 were nurses. There was broad agreement both between the professions and within the professions, with median CFS scores varying by a maximum of only one point, except in case scenario G, where there was a two-point difference between the most junior trainees (FY1) and the nursing staff. No difference (using the Mann–Whitney U test) was found between the different staff groups, with the median scores and range of scores being similar. This study has confirmed there is agreement between different staff members when calculating the CFS with no specific preceding training.
Predicting the Epidemiological Outbreak of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alboaneen Dabiah , Pranggono Bernardi , Alshammari Dhahi , Alqahtani Nourah , Alyaffer Raja
Published: June 2020

The coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak continues to spread rapidly across the world and has been declared as pandemic by World Health Organization (WHO). Saudi Arabia was among the countries that was affected by the deadly and contagious virus. Using a real-time data from 2 March 2020 to 15 May 2020 collected from Saudi Ministry of Health, we aimed to give a local prediction of the epidemic in Saudi Arabia. We used two models: the Logistic Growth and the Susceptible-Infected-Recovered for real-time forecasting the confirmed cases of COVID-19 across Saudi Arabia. Our models predicted that the epidemics of COVID-19 will have total cases of 69,000 to 79,000 cases. The simulations also predicted that the outbreak will entering the final-phase by end of June 2020.
Shoes and Insoles: The Influence on Motor Tasks Related to Walking Gait Variability and Stability
Authors: Russo Luca , Di Capua Roberto , Arnone Benedetto , Borrelli Marta , Coppola Roberto , Esposito Fabio , Padulo Johnny
Published: June 2020

The rhythmic control of the lower limb muscles influences the cycle-to-cycle variability during a walking task. The benefits of insoles, commonly used to improve the walking gait, have been little studied. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the walking gait variability and stability on different walking conditions (without shoes, WTS, with shoes, WS, with shoes and insoles, WSI) related to brain activity. Twelve participants randomly (WTS/WS/WSI) walked on a treadmill at 4 km/h for 10 min. Kinematic analysis (i.e., footstep and gait variability), brain activation (beta wave signal), rating of perceived exertion (RPE, CR-10 scale), and time domain measures of walking variability were assessed. The maximum Lyapunov exponent (LyE) on the stride cycle period’s datasets was also calculated. Stride length and cycle calculated for all walking conditions were 61.59 ± 2.53/63.38 ± 1.43/64.09 ± 2.40 cm and 1.11 ± 0.03/1.14 ± 0.03/1.15 ± 0.04 s (F1,10 = 4.941/p = 0.01, F1,10 = 4.938/p = 0.012) for WTS, WS, WSI, respectively. Beta wave (F1,10 = 564.201/p = 0.0001) was higher in WTS compared to WS and WSI. Analysis of variance’s (ANOVA) LyE showed a F1,10 = 3.209/p = 0.056, while post hoc analysis showed a significant effect between WS and WSI with p = 0.023, and nonsignificant effects between WTS and WS/WSI (p = 0.070/0.607), respectively. Small perturbations of the foot can influence the control of gait rhythmicity by increasing the variability in a dissipative deterministic regimen.
Are the Effects of Variation in Quantity of Daily Bilingual Exposure and Socioeconomic Status on Language and Cognitive Abilities Independent in Preschool Children?
Authors: Dicataldo Raffaele , Roch Maja
Published: June 2020

Bilingual exposure (BE) and socioeconomic status (SES) are associated with children’s development, but their specific and unique effects are still unclear. This study analyzed the influence of these environmental factors on a set of cognitive and linguistic abilities in preschoolers to disentangle their effects. One hundred-eleven Italian-speaking preschool children (mean age = 61 months; SD = 6.8) growing in a monolingual or multilingual context completed an assessment of cognitive (theory of mind, inhibition, attention shifting and working memory) and linguistic abilities (vocabulary, grammar, narrative comprehension, lexical access). The results of hierarchical regressions with predictors variation in BE (both Length and Daily exposure) and SES on each ability, shown a specific contribution of variation in SES, after controlling for BE, in vocabulary, grammar, and working memory (WM), and a specific contribution of variation in BE, over and above effect of SES, in vocabulary, narrative comprehension and WM. In addition, we found an interaction between these factors in predicting the performance of the theory of mind task (ToM). To conclude, variations in BE and SES are related independently to individual differences in linguistic and cognitive skills of children in preschool.