bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tourists perception toward public open space’s physical elements (case study: Cermin beach)
Authors: Ginting Nurlisa , Septilia Tias
Published: July 2019

A well-designed public open space in the countryside attract tourists more than usual ones. As a tourism destination, public open space is not just for the recreational purpose, but also could support the local economy. Serdang Bedagai district has lots of nature-based tourism potential, such as a shoreline or beach tourism. Physical elements in this public open space as a tourism destination could attract tourists and affect tourists perception and loyalties. One of tourism destination which managed by local government and empowering locals is Cermin beach. This destination has public open space which has the possibility for social interaction. However, its physical elements tend to left behind compared to another similar tourism nearby. The aim of this study is to identify the quality of physical elements in public open space as a tourism destination based on tourism perception. This research used descriptive analysis with a qualitative method by observed site and a quantitative method by distributed questionnaire. The result indicates that Cermin beach developer is less aware of physical elements in this public open space, both physical carrying capacity and the hygiene throughly.
Crosslink density and rheometric behaviour of natural rubber/chloroprene rubber blends
Authors: Surya I , Siswarni M Z
Published: July 2019

Crosslinking density and rheometric behaviour of natural rubber (NR)/chloroprene rubber (CR) blends with blend ratios from 0.0 to 100.0% rubber were investigated utilizing the semi efficient vulcanization. The degrees of crosslinking density were calculated using FloryRehner equations. The rheometric properties were tested by utilizing moving die curemeter (MDR 2000). From the overall results, cure and scorch times of the rubbers blends enhanced with increases the CR content. Whilst, the maximum values of torque difference and crosslinking density were performed by the rubbers blend with the 50/50 blend ratio.
Effect of epoxidised natural rubbers on curing characteristics of kaolin-filled natural rubber composites
Authors: Surya I , Sukeksi L , Marpongahtun
Published: July 2019

Effects of 2 types of epoxidised natural rubbers (ENR 25, ENR 50), with twenty-five and fifty moles of epoxidation, on crosslinking density and cure characteristics of natural rubber (NR) composites, which were filled by kaolin filler, were investigated using a semi efficient vulcanisation system. The ENRs were added separately into composites at 5.0, 10.0, 15.0, 20.0 and 25.0 parts per hundred rubber. An observation was conducted to investigate the effects of the ENRs on curing and crosslinking density of the kaolin-filled NR composites. Results revealed that both ENR 25 and ENR 50 functioned as curatives and compatibilizers. They decreased both cure and scorch times and minimum torque but increased difference of torque and crosslinking density. The higher ENRs loadings; the lower were the cure time and scorch time, the higher were the torque difference and crosslinking density. At a similar addition, ENR 50 exhibited a more pronounced curative and compatibilization effects than ENR 25.
Effect of Reaction Time and Catalyst Concentration on Making of Epoxy Compounds Using Sulphuric Acid Catalyst Based on Crystallized Palm Fatty Acid Distillate
Authors: Sinaga M S , Simanjuntak J F , Winda O
Published: July 2019

Epoxy is produced from an epoxidation reaction of vegetable oils such as linseed oil, corn oil, palm oil or natural oils that have unsaturated bonds. The aim of this research is to produce epoxy compound based on Crystallized Palm Fatty Acid Distillate. First, the gas chromatography analysis was done to the palm fatty acid distillate. Then, before the epoxidation reaction began, crystallization process was done based on solubility of saturated and unsaturated fatty acid in organic solvent (methanol). In this research, the Crystallized Palm Fatty Acid Distillate that has reacted with acetic acid glacial and hydrogen peroxide, toluene as solvent, sulfuric acid as a catalyst in a three-neck flask fitted with condenser reflux at 700C and stirred at 500 rpm. The catalyst concentration varied from 1.5%, 2.0%, 2.5%, 3.0% and 3.5% and epoxidation reaction time varied from 60 minutes, 120 minutes, 180 minutes, 240 minutes and 300 minutes. The results showed that the highest epoxy conversion was achieved at reaction time of 120 minutes with 2.5% sulfuric acid catalyst concentration against the amount of hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid used. The result of this analysis shows that oxirane oxygen content is 0.96%, iodine number is 17,16g iod / 100 g oil and conversion equal to 81,61%.
Tensile Properties of Sago Starch Biocomposites Reinforced with Nanocrystalline Cellulose from Rattan Biomass
Authors: Nasution H , Harahap H , Fath M T Al , Afandy Y
Published: July 2019

The biomass of rattan is one of natural waste that contains 37.6% of cellulose contents, which is potential to become a source of nanocrystalline cellulose as a filler in biocomposites. There are three important steps to produce alpha cellulose: delignification, alkalization, and bleaching. Nanocrystalline cellulose was extracted through the hydrolysis of alpha cellulose by using sulfuric acid and followed by ultrasonication, centrifugation, and filtration steps. Sago starch biocomposite has been made by casting method. The tensile properties of biocomposite were analyzed and the characterization was done by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results have shown that nanocrystalline cellulose has made a strong interfacial interaction with starch that can be improved the tensile strength of biocomposites. SEM have shown smoother and more coherent surface and supported the tensile properties result.
Development of foam porous media to undergo surface and submerged flame during premixed combustion
Authors: Janvekar Ayub Ahmed , Abdullah M. Z. , Ahmad Zainal Arifin , Abas Aizat , Kataraki Pramod S. , Ismail A K , Akhtar Mohammad Nishat , Ishak Hafifi Hafiz , Mohamed Mazlan
Published: July 2019

Behaviour of porous media combustion is mainly relay of material used in reaction and preheat zone to possesses high thermal efficiency. Present study deals development of porcelain foam porous media which shall acts as preheat zone to obey peclet number. While in reaction zone consist of alumina foam. In a dual layered micro burner the thickness of reaction and preheat zone was kept at 15 and 10 mm respectively. Burner was developed to achieve not just conventional free flame but also generate submerged flame, varying equivalence ratio (ER). Further, premixed combustion performance was enhanced by running ER below 1, which is lean condition. While optimum ER for surface flame and submerged flame was found to be 0.7 and 0.5 respectively. Maximum thermal efficiency during for surface and submerged flame was turn out to be 90 % and 38 % respectively.
Evaluation and implementation of cognitive ergonomics in e-wallet redesign to reduce experience effort of e-wallet user
Authors: Adimia Desica Nur , Iqbal Billy Muhamad , Syaifullah Danu Hadi , Zakaria Ahmad Syahid
Published: July 2019

Communication technology in Indonesia is growing rapidly and has an impact on the changing behaviour of Indonesian people, which makes industrial sectors use technology as the value of its products. One example of industry that use technology as the value of its product is payment gateway. It is also supported by Indonesia which is now entering the cashless era. E-wallet is one of payment gateway product that has the potential to be a product of the ideal payment. E-wallet is an electronic wallet that is basically a part of server-based electronic money. However, its current use is still not much demanded by the public because e-wallet products that currently use by most people are difficult and require big effort in its use. Whereas as a product which adopt a “wallet” concept, e-wallet should be equipped with the experience of using a physical wallet those are low-effort experience and ease of use. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate mobile e-wallet application by measuring cognitive load resources and evaluating user experience of e-wallet, then providing new design output that comes with the experience of using physical / conventional wallets and more user oriented. Evaluation was performed on e-wallet application object, namely OVO Wallet, with performance metrics and self-reported metrics measurement. The results of these evaluations will serve as the basis for designing new designs of e-wallet products.
Development of Multi-Objective Models in Zone-Based Dynamic Layout : Literature Review
Authors: Tarigan U , Sinulingga S , Sutarman  , Sembiring M T
Published: July 2019

One of the most challenging aspects of the industrial environment in the 21st century is the uncertainty of production. Changes that occur affect the dynamic layout of facilities that are influenced by mix products and market demand. From identification of review and analysis journals that are carried out based on grouping in terms of the methods used and grouping of parameters, also for the formulation of advanced research based on the development of future methods and complexity considerations, the emphasis on the development of facility layout leads to dynamic changes in facility layout based zones with a multi-objective approach taking into account the dynamism of the area, production, production routes, location, cost, multi-stage and the challenge of changes to the complexity of the layout that has not been done by previous researchers. Also made a milestone in the research journey about dynamic facility layout starting from 1986 to 2017. The research methodology was conducted through four stages consisting of system analysis (entity system analysis), uncertainty analysis (forecasting method), dynamic facility multi-objective layout, and strategies and change (simulation) scenarios. The research was carried out on companies that were volatile, such as factories, furniture, electronics, and others.
Disruption innovation, electronic supply chain management in improving the competitive advantage and the company performance
Authors: akmal S , Sinulingga S , Napitupulu H , Matondang N
Published: July 2019

This study attempts to know whether disruption innovation to exert an influence upon electronic supply chain management, competitive advantage and company performance. Disruption innovative measured by some indicators are : management and leading, technology, and organization culture. Variable electronic supply chain management measured by some indicators are: communication, collaboration, information sharing, trust, and trading partners power. Variable excellence compete measured by 5 indicators: the price, quality, delivery, product innovation, and time to market. While the company variable measured by 3 indicators: the financial performance, operational performance and performance based market. Data collection is carried out by means of a detailed questionnaire distributed. Methods of analysis used in this study is the Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using Practical Least Square (PLS). This research result indicates that disruption innovation give impact on electronic supply chain management and competitive advantage.
Calorific Value of Oil Palm Frond Through Bio-Charcoal Briquette as Renewable Energy
Authors: Maulina Seri , Sarah M. , Anwari F N , Siregar A E
Published: July 2019

By product of oil palm plantations such as oil palm fronds have the potential to be processed into more valuable products. The aim of this study to to diversify these by product into natural products through the process of carbonization and briquetting. Around 50 grams of oil palm fronds were carbonized with a furnace at a temperature of 500 °C for 45, 60 and 90 minutes to produce bio-charcoal. Gluing process on the bio-charcoal is carried out using a starch-based adhesive mixed with water at 20% concentration, with the variation of the ratio of adhesives and bio-charcoal were 30:70, 50:50, and 70:30. Subsequently, the bio-charcoal briquettes were pressed using a hydraulic piston machine with a pressure of 30 kg/m2. Calorific value analysis was conducted to test the performance and quality of wood charcoal briquettes.
Ergonomics Risk Analysis Of Public Transportation Drivers (Study Case: Public Transportation Drivers In Makassar City)
Authors: Arminas  , Nurwahidah Andi
Published: July 2019

Complaints on occupational diseases experienced by many workers. one of the causes of this complaint is the lack of good work position of a worker, an unfavorable work position and carried out for a long period of time will have a painful effect on the muscles. Driver is a job that requires a person to sit for a long time in the same position. this causes some workers to feel pain at some point on their body, such as the back and legs. driver’s work area which is very limited to do the movement also makes the driver unable to stretch when in the car. This research will identify the level of ergonomic risk from the position of the driver of public transport in the city of Makassar using Nordic Body Map dan RULA method. This study involved 21 randomly selected drivers. The identification results using the Nordic body map method showed that the driver feels pain in some limbs such as the back, waist, hips buttock and legs. while the identification results using the RULA indicate that the current driving position has a very high ergonomic risk and must be change as soon as possible to avoid further injury in the future.
Overall Equipment Effectiveness Analyse for Performance of CNC Milling Machine Operation
Authors: Hernadewita  , Hermiyetti  , Hendra  , Syukriah  , Surbakti R. Astari, Br. , Marizka Dewi Auditiya
Published: July 2019

Overall equipment efficiency (OEE) is a large part of the maintenance system used by Japanese companies; Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). The value of OEE is affected by the often problematic production activities in machinery/production equipment such as damage to machine components resulting in reduced production, lowering engine production speed, preparation length and adjustment time, resulting in defective products and operating machines but not producing products. This paper will focus on the overall equipment efficiency of CNC Milling machine. The indicators of data parameter are used planned downtime, ideal cycle times, real-time cycles and daily operator reports (daily schedule controls) and direct data retrieval in the field. Where OEE calculation depends on availability, performance of efficiency, and rate of quality. The result has shown that the value of availability is 87%, performance of efficiency is 93% and OEE is 74%.
Feasibility Analysis Of Palm Cooking Oil Industry In West Kalimantan Province
Authors: Oktavina Rakhma , Wulandari Ratih
Published: July 2019

Palm oil (olein) is one of the primary finished products produced from palm fruits in West Kalimantan Province. Olein or known as cooking oil was one of the primary downstream products produced from crude palm oil through refinery and fractionation process. The number of palm oil processing industries in West Kalimantan is still small, which is only 0.64% of the national palm oil processing industry population. This condition shows the need for encouragement from various parties to increase the growth of the palm oil processing industry in West Kalimantan Province, by providing industrial profile facilities that are able to attract new investors. This research aims to a feasibility study of investment in the palm oil industry, to encourage the growth of investment in the crude palm oil / CPO’s downstream industries in West Kalimantan Province. It was expected to help decision makers include policy makers (central government and local oil palm producers), investors, traders, farmers, exporters and other interested parties in the development of Oil Palm industry in West Kalimantan Province. This research uses primary and secondary data. Feasibility analysis consist of raw material, production, market, environtment, and financial aspects. Result of this research shown that oil palm industry in West Kalimantan Province was feasible with investment cost Rp. 365,384,209,972, NPV with discount factor of 20% of Rp. Rp. 383,563,088,150, IRR 47.70%, Net B / C Ratio 1,0424, Pay back period in 5,1085Years.
Management of Lecturers Quality in a University in Medan.
Authors: Haniza
Published: July 2019

The quality management system essentially refers to continuous improvement to strengthen and develop the quality of graduates and the lectuters. This research was designed to know the performance of lecturers as key roles in teaching learning process. A survey research was applied to measure the periodical report and performances of lecturers in a university in Medan of North Sumatra. The performance of lecturers was measured through filling application through web rkts.uma.ac.id. Data obtained were the uploaded documents which were recorded the activities of the lecturers on the Tridharma Perguruan Tinggi basis. In accordance with the policy of KEMENRISTEK through Ministry Regulation No. 92 Year 2014, the element of Teaching, Research, Community Service and other Supporting Elements are included. The population were all lecturers at M A Private University in Medan; the sample took 200 respondents from 7 Faculties, namely Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Economics, Faculty of Biology, Faculty of Psychology, Faculty of Law and Faculty of Politics. From the evaluation result there was a mismatch of documents uploaded with the elements or field measured. Non-compliance that occurs during the examination process which caused the scoring to be inconsistent with the uploaded documents. This study suggests the lecturers are more carefully in uploading documents; it aavoids the redundency of documenting files of Tridharma Perguruan Tinggi.
The Application of SNQ Questionnaires for SME workers: A case study of a tofu SME in Medan
Authors: Ginting Rosnani , Tarigan Ukurta , Ginting Terang Ukur HS. , Malik Alfin Fauzi
Published: July 2019

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are potential economic sources in the community that are able to move the economy to the lower levels of society. From the various advancements in SME, there are also things that need to be improved, one of which is the operator’s working method. The Standard Nordic Questionnaire, or abbreviated as SNQ, is a tool that can determine the parts of the muscles that have complaints with the level of complaints ranging from No Pain (TS), mild pain (AS), and Pain (S). The improvement begins with identifying the complaints of operators through the distribution of the Standard Nordic Questionnaire (SNQ) questionnaire. The results of this identification are known to operators experiencing complaints of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) at the waist, back, arms and shoulders.
Supplier Selection Using Fuzzy Analytic Network Process (Fanp) at PT Putra Gunung Kidul
Authors: Wahyuni Rossi Septy , Julianda Prameswari Rizcha , Wilianti Dewi
Published: July 2019

Supplier selection is very important in the purchase of raw materials that require a good cooperative relationship between the supplier and the company. The interaction between the company and the supplier is required to ensure the availability of raw materials needed in the production process. PT Putra Gunung Kidul is a company that produces noodles. The problems that occurred in PT Putra Gunung Kidul is the order delivery of raw materials from suppliers that do not fit the schedule so that a delay in delivery so that production companies to be blocked. Objectives to be achieved in this study, the first objective is to determine the criteria most influential in the choice of supplier PT Putra Gunung Kidul and determine the best suppliers based on the results of ranking supplier using Fuzzy Analytic Network Process (FANP). FANP calculations done using pairwise comparison matrix pairs of the five criteria, 16 sub-criteria, as well as three alternative suppliers in order to obtain the weight of each criteria, sub-criteria and alternatives. Based on calculations of the most influential criterion is quality with a weight of 0.24686. Subcriteria most influential of weighting results based on the criteria of the most influential is the ability to deliver consistent quality (Q2) of 0.094531. Best Supplier in supplying raw materials to PT Putra Gunung Kidul based on the ranking and the greatest weight is PT B is at the first place with a weight of 0.137086, PT C ranks second with a weight of 0.079240, and PT A ranks third with a weight of 0.062575.
Optimization preventive maintenance of equipment production on palm oil mill
Authors: Hasanah Ina Siti , Wulandari Ratih
Published: July 2019

Maintenance is an important issue that must be considered, especially in the agroindustry company. This paper is to identify and prioritize the most critical component in the production of palm oil using FMEA, and schedule maintenance with optimal total cost of maintenance. RPN obtained score from the highest to the lowest to be scheduled maintenance that is a component of the worm screw press machine, V-belt thresher drum equipment, V-belt separator clarification equipment, steel cable sling tracklier equipment, door seals equipment sterilizer, wheel lorry with ad on lorry equipment, V-belt boiler, screw pn clarification separator equipment, friction pad clarification separator equipment and V-belt equipment at the seed stasion. Optimization of the total cost of maintenance is the reliability level of 90% at a cost Rp. 131.443.940,2/year. Scheduling maintenance can save as much as 47,4% compared to no maintenance scheduling.
Alcohol-Related Mortality in the WHO European Region: Sex-Specific Trends and Predictions
Authors: Pruckner Nathalie , Hinterbuchinger Barbara , Fellinger Matthäus , König Daniel , Waldhoer Thomas , Lesch Otto M , Gmeiner Andrea , Vyssoki Sandra , Vyssoki Benjamin
Published: July 2019

Aims

Alcohol is an important risk factor for morbidity and mortality, especially within the European region. Differences in per capita consumption and drinking patterns are possible reasons for regional differences and diverging trends in alcohol-related health outcomes.

Methods

Twenty-nine countries within the World Health Organization (WHO) European region were evaluated for trends and predictions in alcohol-related deaths within the last four decades using data available from the WHO Health for All database.

Results

Between 1979 and 2015, age-standardised death rates due to selected alcohol-related causes decreased significantly for both sexes in all assessed countries of the WHO European region, but regional differences are still pronounced. Assuming a similar trend in the future, the model predicted a further decrease until the year 2030.

Conclusion

Even though alcohol-related mortality may have decreased within the last decades, the detrimental effects of alcohol consumption and alcohol dependence remain a considerable burden of disease within Europe.
Simultaneous Determination of Co-administrated Deflazacort, Aprepitant and Granisetron in Dosage Forms and Spiked Human Plasma by RP-HPLC/PAD
Authors: Tantawy Mahmoud A , Alweshahy Soheir , Elshabasy Dalia A , Youssef Nadia F
Published: July 2019

A selective reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography/photodiode array detector (RP-HPLC/PAD) method has been developed for simultaneous determination of the three co-administrated deflazacort, aprepitant and granisetron drugs used with chemotherapy. The three cited drugs have been chromatographed on C18 column using a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile–0.2% v/v triethylamine (80:20 v/v, pH of 6.6 ± 0.05) with isocratic elution and monitored by photodiode array at 220 nm. International conference on harmonization (ICH) guidelines were followed to validate the developed method. Successful application of the developed method was assessed by the simultaneous determination of the studied drugs in pure forms, dosage forms and plasma samples in the ranges of 0.2–20, 0.4–40 and 0.2–20 μg/mL for deflazacort, aprepitant and granisetron, respectively.
CyMIRA: The Cytonuclear Molecular Interactions Reference for Arabidopsis
Authors: Forsythe Evan S , Sharbrough Joel , Havird Justin C , Warren Jessica M , Sloan Daniel B
Published: July 2019

The function and evolution of eukaryotic cells depend upon direct molecular interactions between gene products encoded in nuclear and cytoplasmic genomes. Understanding how these cytonuclear interactions drive molecular evolution and generate genetic incompatibilities between isolated populations and species is of central importance to eukaryotic biology. Plants are an outstanding system to investigate such effects because of their two different genomic compartments present in the cytoplasm (mitochondria and plastids) and the extensive resources detailing subcellular targeting of nuclear-encoded proteins. However, the field lacks a consistent classification scheme for mitochondrial- and plastid-targeted proteins based on their molecular interactions with cytoplasmic genomes and gene products, which hinders efforts to standardize and compare results across studies. Here, we take advantage of detailed knowledge about the model angiosperm Arabidopsis thaliana to provide a curated database of plant cytonuclear interactions at the molecular level. CyMIRA (Cytonuclear Molecular Interactions Reference for Arabidopsis) is available at http://cymira.colostate.edu/ and https://github.com/dbsloan/cymira and will serve as a resource to aid researchers in partitioning evolutionary genomic data into functional gene classes based on organelle targeting and direct molecular interaction with cytoplasmic genomes and gene products. It includes 11 categories (and 27 subcategories) of different cytonuclear complexes and types of molecular interactions, and it reports residue-level information for cytonuclear contact sites. We hope that this framework will make it easier to standardize, interpret, and compare studies testing the functional and evolutionary consequences of cytonuclear interactions.
Mapping geologic features onto subducted slabs
Authors: Harmon Nicholas , Rychert Catherine , Collier Jenny , Henstock Tim , van Hunen Jeroen , Wilkinson Jamie J
Published: July 2019

Estimating the location of geologic and tectonic features on a subducting plate is important for interpreting their spatial relationships with other observables including seismicity, seismic velocity and attenuation anomalies, and the location of ore deposits and arc volcanism in the over-riding plate. Here we present two methods for estimating the location of predictable features such as seamounts, ridges and fracture zones on the slab. One uses kinematic reconstructions of plate motions, and the other uses multidimensional scaling to flatten the slab onto the surface of the Earth. We demonstrate the methods using synthetic examples and also using the test case of fracture zones entering the Lesser Antilles subduction zone. The two methods produce results that are in good agreement with each other in both the synthetic and real examples. In the Lesser Antilles, the subducted fracture zones trend northwards of the surface projections. The two methods begin to diverge in regions where the multidimensional scaling method has its greatest likely error. Wider application of these methods may help to establish spatial correlations globally.
Health system reconstitution syndrome: an often misunderstood phenomenon in global health practice
Authors: Manzi Anatole , Ierardo Alyssa , Mugunga Jean Claude , Oswald Cate , Ulysse Patrick , Hansen Eric , Davis Sheila , Mukherjee Joia
Published: July 2019

The beginning of the 21st century was marked by the new definition and framework of health systems strengthening (HSS). The global movement to improve access to high-quality care garnered new resources to design and implement comprehensive HSS programs. In this effort, billions of dollars flowed from novel mechanisms such as The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance; and several bilateral funders. However, poor health outcomes, particularly in low-income countries, raise questions about the effectiveness of HSS program implementation. While several evaluation projects focus on the ultimate impact of HSS programs, little is known about the short- and mid-term reactions occurring throughout the active implementation of HSS interventions. Using the well-documented WHO framework of six HSS building blocks, we describe the evolution and phases of health system reconstitution syndrome (HSRS), including: (1) quiescent phase, (2) reactive phase, (3) restorative phase and (4) stability phase. We also discuss the implications of HSRS on global health funding, implementation, policy and research. Recognizing signs of HSRS could improve the rigour of HSS program design and minimize premature decisions regarding the progress of HSS interventions.
A calcified amorphous tumour in a patient with coronary artery disease: an atypical entity
Authors: Hiremath Channabasavaraj S , Gandrakota Sudheer , Doddamane Aditya N , Diwakar Anitha
Published: July 2019

We describe a case of a 46-year-old man with calcified amorphous tumour in the right atrium and significant coronary artery disease. Preoperative investigations revealed a polypoid oscillating mass arising from the interatrial septum and attached to the tricuspid valve annulus. On-pump complete extirpation of the tumour with concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting was performed successfully. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful.
Surgical repair of Stanford type A acute aortic dissection with extreme tuberculosis-related mediastinal deviation
Authors: Saisho Hiroyuki , Tobinaga Satoru , Yoshida Shohei , Tanaka Hiroyuki
Published: July 2019

In this article, we report on the case of an 85-year-old woman with a history of left pulmonary tuberculosis, who was referred for Stanford type A acute aortic dissection. A preoperative chest X-ray and computed tomography revealed extreme mediastinal deviation to the left. We decided to perform surgery with left rib-cross thoracotomy. This approach yielded excellent exposure of the aortic root, ascending aorta and aortic arch. Following an uneventful operative and postoperative course, the patient was discharged on the 21st postoperative day.
Quantitative Estimation of 38 Illicit Psychostimulants in Blood by GC-APCI-QTOFMS with Nitrogen Chemiluminescence Detection Based on Three External Calibrators
Authors: Mesihää Samuel , Rasanen Ilpo , Pelander Anna , Ojanperä Ilkka
Published: July 2019

A method was developed for quantitative estimation of illicit psychostimulants in blood, with an emphasis on new psychoactive substances, based on gas chromatography nitrogen chemiluminescence detection coupled with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-NCD-APCI-QTOFMS). Quantitative estimation relied on the NCD’s N-equimolar response to nitrogen, using amphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and methylenedioxypyrovalerone as external calibrators for prim-, sec- and tert- amines, respectively. After spiking with 38 stimulants at 3 concentration levels, the donor blood samples were submitted to liquid–liquid extraction at a basic pH followed by acylation with trifluoroacetic anhydride. All but 3 psychostimulants could be analyzed with a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.05 mg/L. At LOQ, the coefficient of variation (CV) values for between-day accuracy was 62.3–143.3% (mean, 93.5%; median, 88.5%) and precision 6.6–22.4% (mean, 15.8%; median, 16.1%). In addition, 11 post-mortem blood samples, containing 0.08–2.4 mg/L of amphetamine (n = 5), methamphetamine (n = 4) or MDMA (n = 4), were analyzed by the GC-NCD-APCI-QTOFMS method, and the results were compared with an established electron ionization GC–MS method with appropriate calibration. The agreement between the 2 methods was 62.5–117.3%. Regarding identification, the APCI source permitted detection of the intact precursor ion, or the respective acylation product, for all of the measured compounds. The GC-NCD-APCI-QTOFMS method developed here enables instant quantitative estimation of illicit psychostimulants in blood at reasonable accuracy, without the necessity of possessing the true reference standards for each analyte.
International networks and the shaping of nineteenth-century Spanish collections
Authors: Garcia-Ventura Agnès , Vidal Jordi
Published: July 2019

In this essay we discuss two examples of the influence exerted by the advice of scholars from the United Kingdom on the shaping and management of Spanish collections – those at the Museo de Reproducciones Artísticas de Madrid and the Real Academia de la Historia. We take as the starting point for our study two letters sent by Juan Facundo Riaño to scholars from the UK, both of which provide valuable information on the international networks in operation at a time when some collections – including those dealt with here – were being created or expanded. The first of the letters was sent by Riaño to Austen Henry Layard in 1881; the second was addressed in 1895 to Archibald Henry Sayce.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy using TomoDirect for postoperative radiation of left-sided breast cancer including lymph node area: comparison with TomoHelical and three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy
Authors: Takano Shoko , Omura Motoko , Suzuki Ryoko , Tayama Yumiko , Matsui Kengo , Hashimoto Harumitsu , Hongo Hideyuki , Nagata Hironori , Tanaka Kumiko , Hata Masaharu , Inoue Tomio
Published: July 2019

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) delivers an excellent dose distribution compared with conventional three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) for postoperative radiation including the lymph nodes in breast cancer patients. The TomoTherapy system, developed exclusively for IMRT, has two treatment modes: TomoDirect (TD) with a fixed gantry angle for beam delivery, and TomoHelical (TH) with rotational beam delivery. We compared the characteristics of TD with TH and 3D-CRT plans in the breast cancer patients. Ten consecutive women with left breast cancer received postoperative radiation therapy using TD including the chest wall/residual breast tissue and level II–III axial and supraclavicular lymph node area. Fifty percent of the planning target volume (PTV) was covered with at least 50 Gy in 25 fractions. TD, TH and 3D-CRT plans were created for each patient, with the same dosimetric constraints. TD and TH showed better dose distribution to the PTV than 3D-CRT. TD and 3D-CRT markedly suppressed low-dose spread to the lung compared with TH. Total lung V5 and V10 were significantly lower, while V20 was significantly higher in the TD and 3D-CRT plans. The mean total lung, heart and contralateral breast doses were significantly lower using TD compared with the other plans. Compared with 3D-CRT and TH, TD can provide better target dose distribution with optimal normal-organ sparing for postoperative radiation therapy including the chest wall/residual breast tissue and lymph node area in breast cancer patients. TD is thus a useful treatment modality in these patients.
Affine registration of multispectral images of historical documents for optimized feature recovery
Authors: Jones Cerys , Christens-Barry William A , Terras Melissa , Toth Michael B , Gibson Adam
Published: July 2019

Multispectral (MSI) imaging of historical documents can recover lost features, such as text or drawings. This technique involves capturing multiple images of a document illuminated using different wavelengths of light. The images created must be registered in order to ensure optimal results are produced from any subsequent image processing techniques. However, the images may be misaligned due to the presence of optical elements such as filters, or because they were acquired at different times or because the images were captured from different copies of the documents . There is little prior work or information available about which image registration techniques are most appropriate. Image registration of multispectral images is challenging as the illumination changes for each image and the features visible in images captured at different wavelengths may not appear consistently throughout the image sequence. Here, we compare three image registration techniques: two based on similarity measures and a method based on phase correlation. These methods are characterized by applying them to realistic surrogate images and then assessed on three different sets of real multispectral images. Mutual information is recommended as a measure for affine image registration when working with multispectral images of documentary material as it was proven to be more robust than the other techniques tested.
Exploring a new definition of the green valley and its implications
Authors: Angthopo James , Ferreras Ignacio , Silk Joseph
Published: July 2019

The distribution of galaxies on a colour–magnitude diagram reveals a bimodality, featuring a passively evolving red sequence and a star-forming blue cloud. The region between these two, the green valley (GV), represents a fundamental transition where quenching processes operate. We exploit an alternative definition of the GV using the 4000 Å break strength, an indicator that is more resilient than colour to dust attenuation. We compare and contrast our GV definition with the traditional one, based on dust-corrected colour, making use of data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. Our GV selection – that does not need a dust correction and thus does not carry the inherent systematics – reveals very similar trends regarding nebular activity (star formation, AGN, quiescence) to the standard dust-corrected 0.1(g − r). By use of high-SNR stacked spectra of the quiescent GV subsample, we derive the simple stellar population (SSP) age difference across the GV, a rough proxy of the quenching time-scale (Δt). We obtain an increasing trend with velocity dispersion (σ), from Δt ∼ 1.5 Gyr at σ = 100 km s−1, up to 3.5 Gyr at σ = 200 km s−1, followed by a rapid decrease in the most massive GV galaxies (Δt ∼ 1 Gyr at σ = 250 km s−1), suggesting two different modes of quenching, or the presence of an additional channel (rejuvenation).
Aging amorphous/crystalline heterophase PdCu nanosheets for catalytic reactions
Authors: Cheng Hongfei , Yang Nailiang , Liu Xiaozhi , Yun Qinbai , Goh Min Hao , Chen Bo , Qi Xiaoying , Lu Qipeng , Chen Xiaoping , Liu Wen , Gu Lin , Zhang Hua
Published: July 2019

Phase engineering is arising as an attractive strategy to tune the properties and functionalities of nanomaterials. In particular, amorphous/crystalline heterophase nanostructures have exhibited some intriguing properties. Herein, the one-pot wet-chemical synthesis of two types of amorphous/crystalline heterophase PdCu nanosheets is reported, in which one is amorphous phase-dominant and the other one is crystalline phase-dominant. Then the aging process of the synthesized PdCu nanosheets is studied, during which their crystallinity increases, accompanied by changes in some physicochemical properties. As a proof-of-concept application, their aging effect on catalytic hydrogenation of 4-nitrostyrene is investigated. As a result, the amorphous phase-dominant nanosheets initially show excellent chemoselectivity. After aging for 14 days, their catalytic activity is higher than that of crystalline phase-dominant nanosheets. This work demonstrates the intriguing properties of heterophase nanostructures, providing a new platform for future studies on the regulation of functionalities and applications of nanomaterials by phase engineering.
Defining and Measuring Abstinence in Clinical Trials of Smoking Cessation Interventions: An Updated Review
Authors: Piper Megan E , Bullen Christopher , Krishnan-Sarin Suchitra , Rigotti Nancy A , Steinberg Marc L , Streck Joanna M , Joseph Anne M
Published: July 2019

Background

Changes in tobacco products, use patterns, and assessment technology in the last 15 years led the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT) Treatment Research Network to call for an update to the 2003 SRNT recommendations for assessing abstinence in clinical trials of smoking cessation interventions.

Methods

The SRNT Treatment Research Network convened a group of investigators with decades of experience in conducting tobacco treatment clinical trials. To arrive at the updated recommendations, the authors reviewed the recommendations of the prior SRNT Workgroup as well as current literature. Ten additional experts in the field provided feedback on this paper and these recommendations.

Results

With respect to defining abstinence, the authors recommend: (1) continuing to use the definition of no use of combustible tobacco products (regardless of use of noncombustible tobacco products [e.g., snus] and alternative products [e.g., e-cigarettes]) and collecting additional data to permit alternate abstinence definitions; (2) no use of combustible or smokeless tobacco products; and (3) no use of combustible or smokeless tobacco products or alternative products, as appropriate for the research question being addressed. The authors also recommend reporting point prevalence and prolonged abstinence at multiple timepoints (end of treatment, ≥3 months after the end of treatment, and ≥6 months postquit or posttreatment initiation).

Conclusions

Defining abstinence requires specification of which products a user must abstain from using, the type of abstinence (i.e., point prevalence or continuous), and the duration of abstinence. These recommendations are intended to serve as guidelines for investigators as they collect the necessary data to accurately describe participants’ abstinence during smoking cessation clinical trials.

Implications

This paper provides updated recommendations for defining abstinence in the context of smoking cessation treatment clinical trials.
Retrospective Study Demonstrating High Rates of Sustained Virologic Response After Treatment With Direct-Acting Antivirals Among American Indian/Alaskan Natives
Authors: Mera Jorge , Joshi Kartik , Thornton Karla , Box Terry , Scott John , Sedillo Miranda , Deming Paulina , David Crystal , Essex Whitney , Manch Richard , Kohli Anita
Published: July 2019

Background

Treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) has rapidly evolved to simple, well-tolerated, all-oral regimens of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). There are few data on the epidemiology of HCV in American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/ANs), a population disproportionately affected by HCV.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, all HCV-infected AI/AN patients treated with DAA therapies between January 1, 2014, and February 24, 2016, in specialty clinics or by primary care clinicians participating in Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) were included. Demographic, clinical, and virologic data on all patients treated for HCV from pretreatment through sustained virologic response at 12 weeks (SVR12) were collected.

Results

Two hundred eighty patients were included; 71.1% of patients (n = 199) were infected with genotype 1 (GT1), 18.2% (n = 51) with GT2, and 10.7% with (n = 30) GT3. At baseline, 26.1% (n = 73) patients had cirrhosis and 22.6% (n = 56) had active substance use disorder; eighty-eight percent (n = 232) of patients achieved SVR12. Among the 165 GT1 patients treated with sofosbuvir (SOF)/ledipasvir for 8, 12, and 24 weeks, SVR12 was achieved by 91.5% (n = 54), 92.2% (n = 71), and 100% (n = 13), respectively. Among GT2 patients, 87.2% (n = 34) and 71.4% (n = 5) treated with 12 and 16 weeks of SOF/ribavirin (RBV) achieved SVR12, respectively. Among GT3 patients, 100% (n = 2) and 83.3% (n = 20) treated with 12 and 24 weeks of SOF/RBV achieved SVR12, respectively. SVR12 rates remained high among patients with active substance use disorder.

Conclusions

DAA therapies are highly efficacious in HCV-infected AI/ANs. SVR12 rates remained high among patients with active substance use disorder. More steps must be taken to increase access to treatment for this underserved, vulnerable population.
Syphilis Reactivates Latent Epstein-Barr Virus Reservoir via Toll-Like Receptor 2 and B-Cell Receptor Activation
Authors: Hirsiger Julia R , Fuchs Philipp S , Häusermann Peter , Müller-Durovic Bojana , Daikeler Thomas , Recher Mike , Hirsch Hans H , Terracciano Luigi , Berger Christoph T
Published: July 2019

Latent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection can clinically reactivate in immunosuppressed individuals causing lymphoproliferative disease and rarely hepatitis. In this study, we provide in vivo and in vitro evidence that Treponema pallidum infection can cause EBV reactivation with hepatitis in an immunocompetent patient. We report the diagnostic challenges and immunological findings of coinciding syphilis and EBV-associated hepatitis. Using an in vitro EBV-reactivation assay, we demonstrate that T pallidum reactivates latent EBV in a Toll-like receptor (TLR)2/B-cell receptor signaling-dependent manner. Epstein-Barr virus-associated reactivation or lymphoproliferation should be considered in infections with pathogens that activate TLR2.
Kinetic trapping in protein folding
Authors: Varela Angela E , England Kevin A , Cavagnero Silvia
Published: July 2019

The founding principles of protein folding introduced by Christian Anfinsen, together with the numerous mechanistic investigations that followed, assume that protein folding is a thermodynamically controlled process. On the other hand, this review underscores the fact that thermodynamic control is far from being the norm in protein folding, as long as one considers an extended chemical-potential landscape encompassing aggregates, in addition to native, unfolded and intermediate states. Here, we highlight the key role of kinetic trapping of the protein native state relative to unfolded, intermediate and, most importantly, aggregated states. We propose that kinetic trapping serves an important role in biology by protecting the bioactive states of a large number of proteins from deleterious aggregation. In the event that undesired aggregates were somehow formed, specialized intracellular disaggregation machines have evolved to convert any aberrant populations back to the native state, thus restoring a fully bioactive and aggregation-protected protein cohort.
Affinity versus specificity in coupled binding and folding reactions
Authors: Gianni Stefano , Jemth Per
Published: July 2019

Intrinsically disordered protein regions may fold upon binding to an interaction partner. It is often argued that such coupled binding and folding enables the combination of high specificity with low affinity. The basic tenet is that an unfavorable folding equilibrium will make the overall binding weaker while maintaining the interaction interface. While theoretically solid, we argue that this concept may be misleading for intrinsically disordered proteins. In fact, experimental evidence suggests that interactions of disordered regions usually involve extended conformations. In such cases, the disordered region is exceptionally unlikely to fold into a bound conformation in the absence of its binding partner. Instead, these disordered regions can bind to their partners in multiple different conformations and then fold into the native bound complex, thus, if anything, increasing the affinity through folding. We concede that (de)stabilization of native structural elements such as helices will modulate affinity, but this could work both ways, decreasing or increasing the stability of the complex. Moreover, experimental data show that intrinsically disordered binding regions display a range of affinities and specificities dictated by the particular side chains and length of the disordered region and not necessarily by the fact that they are disordered. We find it more likely that intrinsically disordered regions are common in protein–protein interactions because they increase the repertoire of binding partners, providing an accessible route to evolve interactions rather than providing a stability–affinity trade-off.