bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE CONCEPT OF LANGUAGE LEARNING IN BEHAVIORISM PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Abidin Khoiru Rakhman
Published: February 2018

The aims of the study are (1) the concepts of language learning in behaviorism perspective, (2) the relation between language and learning in behaviorism perspective, (3) the influence of behaviorism in language learning. This is a descriptive qualitative study. The results showed that (1) behaviorism theories of languages also give good contribution in language learning process that describes a child can learn language from their environments, (2) behaviorism perspective defines as change of behavior through experience, it means human learn something from their environments, (3) human uses language for communication in the world and he also spreads his culture with his language so  human gets  knowledge of language through learning.Keywords: Behaviorism;  Language;  Learning; Language Learning
An Error Analysis of Using Plural Nouns in English Sentences” A Case Study of the Second Year Students of MA Al-Manar Tengaran in the Academic Year 2003/2004
Authors: Mustaidah Mustaidah
Published: February 2018

By doing this research, the writer hopes that the results will be helpful to the English learner in order to be more careful in using plural nouns in English sentences. The subject of research is the second year students of MA Al- Manar Tengaran in the academic year 2003/2004.The writer uses random sampling by lottery method to get the sample of research. The writer analyses the data by making the observation of all collected data, Categorizing the data by giving codes for cash data, categorizing the data by giving codes for cash data, and interpreting data info substantive theory. The result of the study shows that there are dominant errors which are made by students of second years of MA Al- Manar to use plural nouns in English.Keywords: Plural;   Random Sampling; Categorizing;  Dominant;   Error
Comparing the Psychological Aimlessness in Edith Wharton’s the House of Mirth and Ernest Hemmingway’s the Sun also Rises
Authors: Mailasari Dewi Ulya
Published: February 2018

Aimlessness concerns about one’s existence in a society where somebody feels useless amid the society and doesn’t know the role she or he must play. This paper will examine the aimlessness experienced by the main character in the novel entitled The House of Mirth and The Sun Also Rises written by the modernism authors in 1905 and 1926. The first one realized the aimlessness in the very early age, and the life was ended through an overdose, but the later found such feeling after experiencing a war injury. Both characters were victims of the situation but they seemed to have reached a more realistic appreciation of their situation.  Keywords;  Aimlessness; Psychological Consequences;  Main Characters
A Descriptive Analysis of Learning Motivation Taken From Laskar Pelangi Novel
Authors: Muthmainnah Nur
Published: February 2018

This paper informs us some motifs that motivate someone learning something taken from Laskar Pelangi novel. There are four research problems proposed of Laskar Pelangi novel; what are the literary elements of Laskar Pelangi novel; what are the motivations in learning presented in the novel of Laskar Pelangi; what are the reasons of Andrea Hirata took the motivation of learning in Laskar Pelangi novel; what are the implications of Laskar Pelangi novel toward its readers. This research uses descriptive research in analyzing, collecting the data. After analyzing the novel Laskar Pelangi the writer draws some conclusions as follows: the novel uses some figurative language to express some expressions and describe something; its main character is Ikal. Laskar Pelangi tells us some motifs of learning. The motivations which are pointed out are to enrich knowledge, to reach dream, to win a competition, and so on. The reason Andrea Hirata took learning motivation as the theme of Laskar Pelangi novel are to break Melayunese stereotype, to motivate all learner to be motivated in learning, and so on. The implication of Laskar Pelangi story toward its reader are Laskar Pelangi story motivated reader to study abroad, Laskar Pelangi teaches reader to admire the life.Keywords: learning motivation; Laskar Pelangi ; literary elements
A Lacanian Reading of the Two Novels The Scarlet Letter And Private Memoirs And Confessions of A Justified Sinner
Authors: Yazdanpanahi Marjan
Published: February 2018

This paper discusses two novels The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner and The Scarlet Letter written by James Hogg and Nathaniel Hawthorn from the perspective of Jacques Lacan theories: the mirror stage, the-name-of-the-father and desire. The mirror stage refers to historical value and an essential libidinal relationship with the body-image. The-name-of-the-father is defined as the prohibitive role of the father as the one who lays down the incest taboo in the Oedipus complex. Meanwhile, desire is neither the appetite for satisfaction, nor the demand for love, but the difference that results from the subtraction of the first from the second.Keywords: Lacanian Reading; The Mirror Stage; The-Name-Of-The-Father And Desire
The Structure of Teacher’s Directives of the English Lecturers of Muhammadiyah University Semarang
Authors: Mustikasari Rr. Dewi Wahyu
Published: February 2018

Teacher’s directive is an interesting item to discuss since it can be elaborated into command, order, request, and advice. Furthermore, it can be developed that teacher’s directive has several structures. The structure of teacher’s directives can be classified into three kinds: imperative, interrogative, and declarative. I would like to discuss about the various forms by which directives are realized in the classroom in this study. The subjects of the study were 10 English lecturers of Muhammadiyah University Semarang. The instrument of the study is DCT questionnaires, which is consisted of 10 certain situations. The result shows that most of the subjects of study prefer to produce declarative with 74 utterances (50%). Second, they choose imperative with 50 utterances (34%). Next, they construct interrogative with 23 utterances (16%). Declaratives provide powerful directives than the other types. Declaratives gain an explicit expression. Teachers like to use declaratives, since declaratives are understandable. It will minimize the misinterpretation from the students. keywords; illocutionary act; directives; teacher’s directives; the structure of teacher’s directives.
The Fishbowl Method to Improve the Students’ Speaking Skills
Authors: Rahma Dewanti Mulki
Published: February 2018

This study deals with The Fishbowl Method to Improve the Students’ Speaking Skill (An Experimental Study in Ninth Grade Students of SMP N 2 Ambarawa in the Academic Year of 2014/2015). This research was done to answer the objectives of study, namely (1) to find out the difference of lecturing and Fishbowl method in Ninth Grade Students of SMP N 2 Ambarawa in the academic year of 2014/2015, (2) to find out the significant difference of lecturing and Fishbowl method in Ninth Grade Students of SMP N 2 Ambarawa in the academic year of 2014/2015. This research applied descriptive quantitative method. The objects were Ninth Grade Students of SMP N 2 Ambarawa in the academic year of 2014/2015, and the analyzing data were students’ speaking skill that was taught by Fishbowl Method. The sample of this research was taken 28% from population. The numbers of sample were 50 students that were divided into 2 groups. The first group was experimental group and the second group was control group. The data tested using t-test formula by comparing the mean score of pre-test and post-test from both classes. The level of significance was set equal or less than 5%. The result of this study showed that t-value 8, 511 was higher than t-table 2, 064 with the degree of freedom (df) of 24. Therefore, it could be concluded that there was significant difference of T-test between students taught by lecturing and students taught by Fishbowl method. Since t-value was higher than t-table, it meant that null hypothesis was rejected and alternative hypothesis was accepted. Thus, it could be said that Fishbowl method improved students’ speaking skill in Ninth Grade Students of SMP N 2 Ambarawa in the academic year of 2014/2015
The Analysis of Basic Sentence Patterns in English Translation of the Holy Qur’an In Surah Ad Dukhan By Abdulloh Yousuf Ali
Authors: Wulandari Arifah
Published: February 2018

This study is aimed at the analysis of basic sentence patterns in English translation of the holy Qur’an in surah Ad Dukhan. Focusing on the problem statements, there are two cases in this study. They are “What are types of the basic sentence patterns that is found in English translation of the Holy Qur’an in surah Ad Dukhan and what is the dominant of the basic sentence patterns types that is found in English translation of the holy Qur’an in surah Ad Dukhan. This research, applied descriptive qualitative method. The data is collected by documentation. The primary data is taken from surah Ad Dukhan in Abdullah Yousuf Ali’s English translation of the noble Al Qur’an. The secondary data is taken from many literary books and some relevant materials to support and complete the primary data source. The procedure of analyzing the data start by analyzing about basic sentence patterns types based on Nichols’s theory in his book English Syntax. Then find the dominant of the basic sentence patterns types of the holy Qur’an English by Abdullah Yusuf ‘Ali, in 1934 that is focus in surah Ad Dukhan. The overall findings showed that there were basic sentence patterns found in 52 cases are in sentence patterns 1consist of 12 cases, in sentence patterns 2 there are 19 cases, in sentence patterns 3 there are 7 cases, in sentence patterns 4 there are 10 cases, in sentence patterns 5 there are 4 cases. From the result the dominant cases that occurred of sentence patterns that found in Abdullah Yusuf Ali’s translation. The most dominant is sentence patterns 2. After analysis in this paper, the writer suggests in analyzing basic sentence pattern of English, we find that selection is an important syntactic process. The learner will get new idea doing observe as the writer done and they can possibly provide more book to have deeper analysis about that.
ETH Zurich’s university collections and archives in the digital age: innovative indexing, digitisation and publication of unique materials
Authors: Wiederkehr Stefan
Published: February 2018

ETH Zurich’s university collections and archives encompass around twenty facilities with unique holdings. Their diversity reflects the historic development of collections at the university and its modern potential for research and teaching. ETH Zurich makes its collections and archives available for research and teaching in a form that befits the digital age. To this end, it combines ETH Library’s skills in information science with the expertise of the collection owners in the departments in accordance with the Strategy 2015 to 2020, which was passed by the Executive Board in 2014. This paper presents the strategic approach of ETH Zurich’s Executive Board and focuses on the role of ETH Library in the current line of action.
A CRITICAL STUDY OF KONG GIRLS PHENOMENON IN HONGKONG SOCIETY
Authors: Chan Jane
Published: February 2018

Purpose of the study: The term, Kong Girls is new in Hong Kong in the past ten years. The purpose of this research is to suggest reasons behind the Kong Girls phenomenon and to explore whether this will continue to be a factor for Hong Kong men marrying Mainland women.

Methodology: Seven interviews with typical Hong Kong Kong Girls were conducted within a similar period of time in 2015. One non-Kong-Girl was also interviewed as a control.

Main Findings:  findings of this research indicate that the Kong Girls phenomenon may be a social problem in the long run and Hong Kong men have to continue to find their wives outside Hong Kong if traditional thinking is not to be changed. If Hong Kong women continue to be Kong Girls, both genders may not be able to find their partner locally at their home city.

Implications: social studies, psychology, gender issues

Novelty/Originality of this study: This article helps explain why Hong Kong women prefer to marry non-Hong Kong men or choose to remain single. This is first of its kind study.
Evaluation of Online Video Usage and Learning Satisfaction: An Extension of the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Nagy Judit T
Published: February 2018

The aim of the study was to examine the determining factors of students' video usage and their learning satisfaction relating to the supplementary application of educational videos, accessible in a Moodle environment in a Business Mathematics Course. The research model is based on the extension of Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), in which the core TAM constructs – perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude – and internet self-efficacy were included as the explanatory factors of video usage. As regards the determinants of learning satisfaction, beside the core TAM constructs, the role of learning performance, learner-learner interaction, and learner-teacher interaction was examined. Data were collected from 89 students using a questionnaire, on which the partial least-squares structural equation modelling approach was used to evaluate the research model. The results confirmed that perceived usefulness, attitude, and internet self-efficacy had a direct effect on the video usage. Learning satisfaction was directly influenced by learner-learner interaction, perceived ease of use, and learning performance. Furthermore, the results indicated that video usage had a significant effect both on learning performance and on learning satisfaction. The findings show that the extended TAM model can be applied for predicting the university students' video technology usage and their learning satisfaction regarding the usage.
New Definitons about AI-Statistical Convergence with Respect to a Sequence of Modulus Functions and Lacunary Sequences
Authors: Kişi Ömer , Gümüş Hafize , Savaş Ekrem
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we generalize the concept of I-statistical convergence, which is a recently introduced summability method, with an infinite matrix of complex numbers and a modulus function. Lacunary sequences will also be included in our definitions. The name of our new method will be A^{I}-lacunary statistical convergence with respect to a sequence of modulus functions. We also define strongly A^{I}-lacunary convergence and we give some inclusion relations between these methods.
ANALISIS STRUKTURAL DAN NILAI PENDIDIKAN NOVEL GEDHONG SETAN KARYA SUPARTO BRATA SERTA RELEVANSINYA SEBAGAI MATERI PEMBELAJARAN NOVEL BERBAHASA JAWA
Authors: Suryanto Edy , Waluyo Budi , Fadli Muhammad
Published: February 2018

Karya sastra memiliki nilai-nilai penting yang dapat diterapkan dalam kehidupan salah satunya novel berbahasa Jawa. Oleh karena itu, peneliti ingin meneliti novel Gedhong Setan karya Suparto Brata. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan: (1) Unsur struktural yang membangun novel, baik unsur intrinsik dan unsur ekstrinsik; (2) Nilai pendidikan yang terdapat dalam novel; dan (3) Relevansi novel sebagai materi pembelajaran novel berbahasa Jawa. Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian kualitatif deskriptif dengan pendekatan struktural. Data yang diperoleh berasal dari novel, wawancara dengan ahli sastra, guru bahasa Jawa, dan siswa. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan purposive sampling. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan analisis sumber tertulis atau dokumen dan wawancara. Uji validitas data menggunakan triangulasi sumber dan teori. Teknik analisis data menggunakan teknik analisis jalinan, yaitu reduksi data, penyajian data, penarikan simpulan. Simpulan penelitian ini; (1) Novel Gedhong Setan karya Suparto Brata memiliki unsur intrinsik meliputi tema, tokoh dan penokohan, alur, latar, bahasa, dan sudut pandang; sedangkan unsur ekstrinsik meliputi situasi sosial politik, ekonomi, dan budaya; sistem pengarang dan kepengarangan; sistem penerbit dan penerbitan; serta sistem pembaca; (2) Nilai-nilai pendidikan yang terdapat di dalam novel, yaitu: nilai keagamaan, nilai kesusilaan (moral), nilai sosial, dan nilai kultural; dan (3) Novel tersebut sangat relevan sebagai materi ajar dalam pembelajaran novel berbahasa Jawa di SMA.

 Kata kunci:pendekatan struktural, novel, nilai pendidikan, materi pembelajaran

 

 

 
AMINO ACID COMPOSITION AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF FIVE EDIBLE MUSHROOM SPECIES FROM KASTAMONU, TURKEY
Authors: Bakır Temel kan , Boufars Mansor , Karadeniz Mertcan , Ünal Sabri
Published: February 2018

Background: Hydnum repandum, Cantharellus cibarius, Ramaria fennica, Boletus edulis, and Craterellus cornucopioides are all wild edible mushroom species from the Kastamonu province. The aim of this study was to investigate antioxidant properties and amino acid contents of these mushrooms.

Materials and Methods: The mushrooms were analyzed for their free amino acid compositions using a high performance Amino Acid analyzer (Biochrom 30). Also, antioxidant activity and total phenolic concentrations of five different mushroom species were studied by using spectrophotometric methods.

Results: The mushrooms contained 17 amino acids (g/100 g): Glutamic acid (2.56–1.11), Alanine (1.49–0.54), Arginine (1.62–6.77), Aspartic acid (1.45–0.81), Leucine (1.08–0.64), Methionine (1.05–0.06), Valine (1.05–0.66), Lysine (1.01–0.57), Serine (0.68–0.38), Cysteine (0.88–0.11), Isoleucine (0.61–0.39), Glycine (0.82–0.35), Threonine (0.82–0.44), Phenylalanine (0.66–0.42), Proline (0.60–0.47), Tyrosine (0.58–0.38), and Histidine (0.48–0.22). The total free amino acid (TAA) contents ranged from 169.2 mg/g in Boletus edulis to 89.1 mg/g in Hydnum repandum. These five different mushroom species contain eight essential amino acid species except tryptophan. The antioxidant activity of mushroom extracts was expressed as the percentage of DPPH radical inhibition and IC50 values (mg/mL). The percentage of inhibition ranged from 2.38% to 88.05% and IC50 values ranged from 0.03 to 13.98 mg/mL. The total phenolic content ranged from 0.66 to 7.74 mg/g of dry mushroom extract, expressed as gallic acid equivalents.

Conclusion: Methanolic extract of Boletus edulis showed the highest phenolic content and strong antioxidant activity. As a result, the significant linear correlation between the values for the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of mushroom extracts was corroborated in all of the investigated mushroom species, with the exception of Craterellus cornucopioides.
BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS IN ETHANOL EXTRACT OF LENTINUS SQUARROSULUS MONT - A NIGERIAN MEDICINAL MACROFUNGUS
Authors: Adeoye-Isijola Morenike Olutunmbi , Olajuyigbe Olufunmiso Olusola , Jonathan Segun Gbolagade , Coopoosamy Roger Murugas
Published: February 2018

Background: The continuous search for new lead compounds of therapeutic importance has become necessary in the face of treatment failures and multidrug resistance plaguing the world. While many plants and higher fungi are sources of bioactive compounds yet to be fully harnessed, understanding the bioactive components in macrofungus could serve as a lead for investigating its biological activities and medicinal potentials.

Materials and Methods: The bioactive compounds in the ethanolic extract of Lentinus Squarrosulus, an edible Nigerian macrofungus, were investigated by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis.

Results: There were nine bioactive compounds in this edible macrofungus. Of these compounds, 9,12-Octadecanoic acid ethyl ester (37.39%; RT:39.815) was the highest in quantity, followed by Hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester (14.49%; RT:36.550). Other fatty acids, their ethyl esters and other compounds identified included 2-Butenethioic acid,3-(ethylthio)-S-(1-methylethyl) ester (4.51%; RT:15.866), n-Hexadecanoic acid (4.74%; RT:36.034), 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (11.88%; RT:39.429), 9,17-Octadecadienal,(Z)- (5.01%; RT:39.500), ethyl oleate (5.27%; RT:39.898), 3a,6-Methano-3aH-indene,2,3,6,7 tetrahydro (4.04%; RT:48.379), and 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)-,2 hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl) ethyl ester (12.68%; RT:48.682). Some of these compounds have antimicrobial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, hypocholesterolemic as well as cancer preventive activities amongst others.

Conclusion: This study showed the bioactive components of therapeutic potentials in L. squarrosulus while creating a platform for screening, isolating and identifying many bioactive components which may be useful in the treatment of the various ailments, disorders and diseases in the nearest future.
Portfolio creation using graph characteristics
Authors: Danko Jakub , Šoltés Vincent
Published: February 2018

The aim of this work is by combination of the graph theory and Markowitz portfolio theory to illustrate how some graph characteristics are related to the diversification potential of individual portfolio-forming stocks. Using the graph characteristic, the vertex eccentricity, individual stocks are divided into two groups: a group of large and group of small eccentricity. Eccentricity in this context is considered to be a very suitable metric of the centrality of individual vertices. Different price histories (5 to 30 years) of the Standard and Poor’s index are analyzed. Using the simulation analysis, samples of mentioned groups are generated and then tested by means of comparison to show that larger eccentricity samples, representing stocks on the periphery of the minimum spanning tree of the graph, have a higher potential for diversification than those found in the center of the graph. The results published in the article can be a practical guide for an individual investor during the portfolio creation process and help him/her with decision-making about stock selection.
Variability of cool seasonal rainfall associated with Indo-Pacific climate modes: case study of Victoria, Australia
Authors: Mekanik F. , Imteaz M. A.
Published: February 2018

This study focused on diagnosing the relative and independent role of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) on austral cool seasonal rainfall by stratifying the cool seasonal rainfall into winter (June–August) and spring (September–November). Partial regression and classification analysis was used to investigate the effect of the climate modes on rainfall in the state of Victoria in southeast Australia. Partial regression analyses revealed that when the influence of IOD is removed from ENSO, sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the Pacific Ocean have no significant effect on spring rainfall across Victoria and affect winter rainfall mildly in west Victoria. By removing the inter-correlations between ENSO and IOD, SST anomalies in the Indian Ocean and SLP anomalies in the Pacific Ocean showed weak relationships with Victoria's spring and winter rainfall. Classification analysis demonstrated the effects of phases of ENSO and IOD on Victoria's seasonal rainfall; the dry phases of the climate modes have more effect on spring rainfall compared to the wet phases and both show no significant effect on winter rainfalls. It is recommended that for water availability forecasting in Victoria, water managers should focus on the effect of climate modes on spring rainfalls, particularly during the dry phases of ENSO and IOD.
Tabagismo entre estudantes de profissões de saúde: prevalência, conhecimento, atitudes e opiniões
Authors: Da Silva Anderson Cardoso , Teixeira Eduardo Ribeiro , Da Cunha Gonçalves Sebastião Jorge , De Souza Maria Cristina Almeida
Published: February 2018

O tabagismo é a principal causa prevenível de mortalidade no mundo. Cabe ao pessoal de saúde empenhar-se para mudar isso, mas sua atuação depende de serem ou não tabagistas e do treinamento recebido. O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar se a atitude dos estudantes de profissões da saúde é modificada pelo fato de terem hábito de fumar, estimar a prevalência de tabagismo e avaliar opiniões. Trata-se de um estudo transversal com inquérito aplicado a uma amostra aleatória simples de acadêmicos de Medicina, Enfermagem, Odontologia e Farmácia, segundo a metodologia da Pesquisa Mundial sobre Tabagismo em Estudantes de Profissões de Saúde. A análise estatística considerou um valor de p < 0,05 como índice de significância. O questionário foi respondido por 114 estudantes; 65,8% eram do gênero feminino e 72,8% tinham menos de 24 anos. A prevalência de tabagismo foi de 19,3%, estando acima da média nacional, e foi maior no gênero masculino. Quanto às opiniões, destaca-se que para 82,6% dos fumantes, profissionais da saúde (PS) servem de modelo de comportamento, contra 59,1% dos fumantes (p = 0,017); para 97,8% dos não fumantes, os PS devem rotineiramente aconselhar pacientes a parar de fumar, contra 81,8% dos fumantes (p ≤ 0,01). A maioria respondeu que PS devem receber treinamento sobre técnicas de cessação, mas 75,4% afirmam não terem sido treinados. Considerando a alta prevalência de tabagismo e seu impacto sobre a atuação dos futuros profissionais da saúde, conclui-se que deve ser destinada maior atenção ao treinamento dado sobre abandono do uso de tabaco.
ESTUDO DO PERFIL EPIDEMIOLÓGICO DAS AGRESSÕES DE CÃES AOS HUMANOS NO MUNICÍPIO DE VASSOURAS/RJ
Authors: De Souza Adriele Oliveira Brandão , Marinho dos Santos Leticia Souza , Brandão Gabriele Barbosa , Goulart de Carvalho Flavia Clare , Soares Guilherme Marques
Published: February 2018

Os ataques de cães a seres humanos figuram como importante problema de saúde pública, devido ao risco da ocorrência de zoonoses, infecções secundárias, à necessidade de vacinação anti-rábica, e ao possível desenvolvimento de estresse pós-traumático nas vítimas. Com o objetivo de entender a dinâmica dos ataques ocorridos no município de Vassouras – RJ, no período de 2010 a 2017, o presente estudo baseou-se na resposta de questionários às vítimas dos ataques aplicados nos bairros distintos Ipiranga e Grecco, que identificam o perfil da vítima e do agressor, possível desenvolvimento de sequelas psicológicas no que diz respeito ao medo de cães. Entre 322 questionários aplicados, foram encontrados 93 casos de ataques caninos, demonstrando grande ocorrência de ataques no município, com possível potencial zoonótico, casos de subnotificação e gastos com tratamento das lesões ocorridas, destacando a prevalência dos ataques em ambos os bairros.
Metal Ion Complexes with Pyrazoles, Aziridines and Diaziridines – Synthesis and Biological Activity
Authors: Malinowska Katarzyna , Lorenz Ingo-Peter , Sadowska Beata , Mucha Paulina
Published: February 2018

Heterocyclic compounds containing nitrogen ions, like pyrazoles, aziridines, diaziridines and their metal ion complexes with Cu(II), Zn(II) and Ru(III) and others exhibit a wide range of biological activity, including mainly anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties. Biological significance of these molecules and thus their potential use in medicine has driven growing interest into their coordination chemistry. A knowledge of the relationship between the structure of chemical compounds and their activity is needed for the synthesis of the preparations possessing the most beneficial features. The choice of interposed substituents may improve biocidal and antitumor action, reduce the toxicity of the initial substance, or even completely eliminate its adverse effects for healthy tissues. The main aim of this review paper is to present the current state of knowledge concerning the synthesis and biological activity of complexes with small heterocyclic ligands containing transition metal ions.
Oxidative Stress and Decreased Mitochondrial Superoxide Dismutase 2 and Peroxiredoxins 1 and 4 Based Mechanism of Concurrent Activation of AMPK and mTOR in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Majd Shohreh , Power John H.T.
Published: February 2018

Background:

Emerging evidence supports the hypothesis that metabolism dysfunction is involved
in pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). One aspect of metabolic dysfunction includes dysregulation
of adenosine monophosphate kinase protein kinase (AMPK) and mammalian target of rapamycin
(mTOR) metabolic axis, which is extensively present in some of the leading causes of AD such
as cerebrovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and brain ischaemic events. While the molecular basis underlying
this metabolic dysregulation remains a significant challenge, mitochondrial dysfunction due to
aging appears to be an essential factor to activate AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway, leading to abnormal
neuronal energy metabolism and AD pathology.

Methods:

Using immunofluorescent imaging by Lecia confocal microscopy, we analyzed the activation
of AMPK/mTOR. Concurrently, the level of mitochondrial antioxidant enzymes of superoxide
dismutase 2 (SOD2) and peroxiredoxin 1 and 4 (p1 and p4) along with protein and DANA oxidation
were examined to in postmortem brains of AD (n= 8) and normal (n= 7) subjects to evaluate the metabolism
dysfunction role in AD pathology.

Results:

In spite of AMPK inhibitory control on mTOR, concurrent phosphorylation of AMPK and
mTOR (p-AMPK and p-mTOR) was observed in AD brains with high colocalization with
hyperphosphorylated tau. Mitochondrial antioxidant enzymes of SOD2 and p1 and p4 were substantially
decreased in p-AMPK, p-mTOR and p-tau positive cells along with higher levels of DNA and protein
oxidation.

Conclusion:

Collectively, we conclude that AMPK and mTOR metabolic axis is highly activated in AD
brains. While the inhibitory link between AMPK and mTOR seems to be disrupted, we suggest
oxidative stress as the underlying mechanism for concurrent activation of AMPK and mTOR in AD.
Synthesis and Antifungal Activity of Coumarins Derivatives Against Sporothrix spp.
Authors: da S.M. Forezi Luana , Borba-Santos Luana Pereira , Cardoso Mariana F.C. , Ferreira Vitor F. , Rozental Sonia , de C. da Silva Fernando
Published: February 2018

Sporotrichosis is a serious public health problem in Brazil that affects human patients
and domestic animals, mainly cats. Thus, the search for new antifungal agents is required also due
to the emergence and to the lack of effective drugs available in the therapeutic arsenal. The aim of
this study was to evaluate the in vitro antifungal profile of two synthetic series of coumarin derivatives
against Sporothrix schenckii and Sporothrix brasiliensis. The three-components synthetic
routes used for the preparation of coumarin derivatives have proved to be quite efficient and compounds
16 and 17 have been prepared in good yields. The inhibitory activity of nineteen synthetic
coumarins derivatives 16a-i and 17a-j were evaluated against Sporothrix spp. yeasts and the most
potent compounds were 16b and 17i. However, according to concentrations able to inhibit (minimum
inhibitory concentrations) and kill (minimum fungicidal concentrations) the cells, 17i was
more effective than 16b against Sporothrix spp. Thus, 17i exhibited good antifungal activity against
S. brasiliensis and S. schenckii, suggesting that it is an important scaffold for the development of
novel antifungal agents.
LegumeDB: Development of Legume Medicinal Plant Database and Comparative Molecular Evolutionary Analysis of matK Proteins of Legumes and Mangroves
Authors: Thakar Sambhaji B. , Dhanavade Maruti J. , Sonawane Kailas D.
Published: February 2018

Background:

Legume plants are known for their rich medicinal and nutritional values.
Large amount of medicinal information of various legume plants have been dispersed in the form of
text.

Objective:

It is essential to design and construct a legume medicinal plants database, which integrate
respective classes of legumes and include knowledge regarding medicinal applications along with
their protein/enzyme sequences.

Methods:

The design and development of Legume Medicinal Plants Database (LegumeDB) has been
done by using Microsoft Structure Query Language Server 2017. DBMS was used as back end and
ASP.Net was used to lay out front end operations. VB.Net was used as arranged program for coding.
Multiple sequence alignment, phylogenetic analysis and homology modeling techniques were also used.

Results:

This database includes information of 50 Legume medicinal species, which might be helpful
to explore the information for researchers. Further, maturase K (matK) protein sequences of legumes
and mangroves were retrieved from NCBI for multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis
to understand evolutionary lineage between legumes and mangroves. Homology modeling technique
was used to determine three-dimensional structure of matK from Legume species i.e. Vigna unguiculata
using matK of mangrove species, Thespesia populnea as a template. The matK sequence analysis
results indicate the conserved residues among legume and mangrove species.

Conclusion:

Phylogenetic analysis revealed closeness between legume species Vigna unguiculata and
mangrove species Thespesia populnea to each other, indicating their similarity and origin from common
ancestor. Thus, these studies might be helpful to understand evolutionary relationship between
legumes and mangroves.

:

LegumeDB availability: http://legumedatabase.co.in
The Anatomical Nature of Dental Paresthesia: A Quick Review
Authors: Ahmad Maha
Published: February 2018

Dental paresthesia is loss of sensation caused by maxillary or mandibular anesthetic administration before dental treatment. This review examines inferior alveolar block paresthesia symptoms, side effect and complications. Understanding the anatomy of the pterygomandibular fossa will help in understanding the nature and causes of the dental paresthesia. In this review, we review the anatomy of the region surrounding inferior alveolar injections, anesthetic agents and also will look also into the histology and injury process of the inferior alveolar nerve.
Thermafil: A New Clinical Approach Due to New Dimensional Evaluations
Authors: Vittoria G. , Pantaleo G. , Blasi A. , Spagnuolo G. , Iandolo A. , Amato M.
Published: February 2018

Background:

There are a lot of techniques to obturate the root canals, but lateral condensation of gutta-percha is the most used one. An important aspect of thermafil is the error margin tolerated by the manufacturer in the production of plastic carriers. In literature, there is no evidence about discrepancy percentage between different carriers. It is demonstrated that the error margin of gutta-percha is 0.5% and is 0.2% for metal files (ISO standards).

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the real dimensions of thermafil plastic carriers observed by the stereo microscope measuring the dimensional discrepancy between them.

Methods:

For this study, 80 new thermafil (Dentsply Maillefer) have been selected. 40 thermafil 0.25 and 40 thermafil 0.30. Through 60X stereo microscope, the dimensions of the plastic carrier tips have been measured. The dimensions of the plastic carrier were also measured after a heating cycle. ZL GAL 11TUSM (Zetaline stereo evolution) microscope was used to observe the samples. Measurements were made through a dedicated software (Image Focus). All samples were analysed at 60X.

Results:

A non-parametric paired test (Wilcoxon test) was used to compare baseline and after heating values; p-values ≤ 0.05 were assumed to be statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The samples we measured showed a mean value of the diameters in Thermafil 25 that was 0.27 mm, for Thermafil 30 the mean value was 0.33 mm.

We have measured a dimensional variable of 8% in the 25 group while in group 30 the maximum possible variation found was 4%, that’s why we propose a new protocol of obturation with thermafil. We can also conclude that a single heating process does not affect clinically the plastic carrier dimensions.
Nutritional, Antioxidant and Sensory Properties of Value Added Muffins
Authors: Nagarajaiah Shyamala B. , Ramakrishna Manasa G. , Prakash Jamuna
Published: February 2018

Background:

Consumption of unhealthy processed foods viz., refined wheat flour based bakery products such as biscuits, muffins, etc. is a key causative factor underlying nutrition transition giving rise to overweight and obesity. The underutilized coarse grain, proso millet (Panicum miliaceum) can find potential application in bakery products.

Objective:

The objective of the present study was to prepare healthy muffins by partial replacement of refined flour with Proso Millet Flour (PMF), Carrot Preserve (CP) and Beetroot Preserve (BP).

Methods:

Standardized methods were used to analyze the products for nutritional composition, antioxidant activity and sensory properties.

Results:

Results showed that the protein and dietary fiber contents of products ranged from 5.49- 5.95g and 3.60-4.15g/100g respectively. Total phenolic content was high in aqueous extract of muffin with PMF+BP i.e. 125±1.41mg tannic acid equivalent/100g. β-carotene content was high in muffin with PMF+CP (155±3.5µg/100g). Antioxidant activity determined by four methods showed that products with PMF+CP and PMF+BP had higher activity compared to control samples. The sensory quality of muffin was unaffected by the incorporation PMF, having scores equal to control muffins.

Conclusion:

To conclude PMF, CP and BP can be used as functional food ingredients in bakery products to improve the nutritional quality without affecting sensorial palatability.
The Natural Radioactivity in Food: A Comparison Between Different Feeding Regimes
Authors: Caridi Francesco , Marguccio Santina , Belvedere Alberto , D`Agostino Maurizio , Belmusto Giovanna
Published: February 2018

Background:

In this article a comprehensive study was carried out for the determination of
natural radioactivity in animal and vegetable food (meat, fish, milk and derivates, legumes, cereals and
derivates, fruit, hortalizas, vegetables, vegetable oils) typical of different feeding regimes, for the age
category higher than 17 years.

Methods:

A total of eighty-five samples of Italian origin, coming from large retailers during the years
2014, 2015 and 2016, were analyzed through HPGe gamma spectrometry.

Results:

The specific activity of 40K was investigated and its mean value was found to be: (106.3 ±
6.9) Bq/kg for bovine, swine and sheep meat; (116.5 ± 9.7) Bq/kg for fish; (52.9 ± 3.1) Bq/kg for milk
and derivates; (271.9 ± 16.7) Bq/kg for legumes; (67.2 ± 4.7) Bq/kg for cereals and derivates; (52.7 ±
4.4) Bq/kg for fruit; (72.9 ± 5.6) Bq/kg for hortalizas; (83.9 ± 6.5) Bq/kg for vegetables; lower than
the minimum detectable activity for vegetable oils. For animal food the highest mean 40K activity concentration
was found in fish samples; for vegetable food the highest one was detected in legumes.

Conclusion:

The evaluation of dose levels due to the food ingestion typical of Mediterranean, Vegetarian
and Vegan diets was performed. The annual effective dose was found to be 0.16 mSv/y, 0.41
mSv/y and 0.54 mSv/y, respectively.
Apuntes sobre el comercio exterior y la moneda durante la época del emperador Justiniano (527-565)
Authors: Vera Ramírez Henry Daniel
Published: February 2018

Este artículo presenta un análisis histórico del desarrollo del comercio y de la moneda, en el periodo comprendido entre la llegada al poder de Justiniano (527-565) y su declive. El objetivo es entender las razones por las cuales este periodo se caracterizó por un aumento significativo del flujo comercial, en contraposición con el descenso en el comercio que se generó sobre todo a partir de la escisión del Imperio Romano en el siglo iv de nuestra era y en el evento capital que significó el traslado del Imperio romano a la ciudad de Bizancio. Paralelo a este desarrollo histórico se plantea el papel de la moneda en el tránsito de las Economías pre-capitalistas a las capitalistas, como elemento subsidiario de la actividad comercial.
Análise comparada da estrutura e desempenho dos bancos centrais de três países da América latina através de um modelo de vetor auto-regressivo (VAR/VEC)
Authors: Bampi Sílvia Letícia , Ellwanger Kim , Triches Divanildo
Published: February 2018

Esse artigo tem como objetivo analisar o desempenho dos Bancos Centrais (BC) de três países da América Latina, verificando a sua política de atuação e identificando os modelos monetários que obtiveram um melhor desempenho econômico frente aos diversos ciclos no período de 2000 a 2014. Estimou-se um modelo de Vetor Auto-regressivo (VAR/VEC) onde os coeficientes evidenciaram que para Brasil e Chile, as variáveis comumente utilizadas para se avaliar a interferência dos BC, tiveram influência significativa nas demais variáveis da economia consideras no estudo. Para o México, no entanto, essas variáveis não apresentaram significância. As evoluções financeiras atreladas a globalização e a abertura comercial restringiram a atuação dos agentes reguladores promovendo mudanças com relação a atuação destes para o futuro. Desta forma, a redução de incertezas políticas e econômicas, relacionada a maior inserção dos países no sistema internacional, refletem mudanças nas estratégias dos bancos centrais.
Características generales del recaudo y gasto público del Estado de Cundinamarca, 1856-1885
Authors: Fonseca Gómez Manuela , López Rivera Edwin
Published: February 2018

El objetivo de este artículo es describir y analizar la evolución del recaudo fiscal y gasto público del Estado Soberano de Cundinamarca entre 1856 y 1885. En este periodo, el recaudo fiscal se vio afectado por los conflictos políticos y la falta de mecanismos legislativos para llegar a acuerdos democráticos sobre el sistema fiscal lo cual afectó sensiblemente el sistema tributario de Cundinamarca. Los enfrentamientos entre liberales y conservadores por ejercer el control sobre la administración local, las guerras y la amenaza de nuevos conflictos fueron fuentes adicionales de inestabilidad política que influyeron en las finanzas locales, puesto que dificultaron el cobro de impuestos en algunas localidades a la vez que se aumentaba el gasto militar.
Wszechświat genialnym dziełem Boga według Hbr 3, 4
Authors: Obidowicz Andrzej J.
Published: February 2018

Spośród pism Nowego Testamentu funkcja Boga jako budowniczego jest najbardziej eksponowana w Liście do Hebrajczyków. W przedstawionym tutaj opracowaniu omówiono jedynie werset 3, 4. Zarówno przekłady polskie, jak i angielskie stosują tam do Boga termin „budowniczy” lub jego pochodne odsłowne. W niniejszym opracowaniu przedstawiono – na drodze analizy kontekstowej – uzasadnienie dla przekładu Hbr 3, 4 eksponującego zamysł koncepcyjny oraz kunszt Boga przy tworzeniu wszechświata.
Acceptability, Use, and Safety of a Mobile Phone App (BlueIce) for Young People Who Self-Harm: Qualitative Study of Service Users’ Experience
Authors: Grist Rebecca , Porter Joanna , Stallard Paul
Published: February 2018

Background

Self-harm is common among adolescents and is associated with a number of negative psychosocial outcomes including a higher risk of suicide. Recent reviews highlight the lack of research into specific interventions for children and young people who self-harm. Developing innovative interventions that are coproduced with individuals with lived experience and that reduce self-harm are key challenges for self-harm prevention.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the acceptability, use, and safety of BlueIce, a mobile phone app for young people who self-harm and who are attending child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS).

Methods

This study is part of a mixed methods phase 1 trial of BlueIce. Young people aged 12-17 years attending specialist CAMHS were recruited. Clinicians were invited to refer young people who were self-harming or who had a history of self-harm. On consent being obtained and baseline measures taken, participants used BlueIce as an adjunct to usual care for an initial familiarization period of 2 weeks. If after this time they wanted to continue, they used BlueIce for a further 10 weeks. Semistructured interviews were conducted at postfamiliarization (2 weeks after using BlueIce) and postuse (12 weeks after using BlueIce) to assess the acceptability, use, and safety of BlueIce. We undertook a qualitative analysis using a deductive approach, and then an inductive approach, to investigate common themes.

Results

Postfamiliarization interviews were conducted with 40 participants. Of these, 37 participants elected to use BlueIce, with postuse interviews being conducted with 33 participants. Following 6 key themes emerged from the data: (1) appraisal of BlueIce, (2) usability of BlueIce, (3) safety, (4) benefits of BlueIce, (5) agency and control, and (6) BlueIce less helpful. The participants reported that BlueIce was accessible, easy to use, and convenient. Many highlighted the mood diary and mood lifter sections as particularly helpful in offering a way to track their moods and offering new strategies to manage their thoughts to self-harm. No adverse effects were reported. For those who did not find BlueIce helpful, issues around motivation to stop self-harming impeded their ability to use the app.

Conclusions

BlueIce was judged to be a helpful and safe way of supporting adolescents to manage thoughts of self-harming. Adolescents reported numerous benefits of using BlueIce, and all would recommend the app to other young people who were struggling with self-harm. These preliminary findings are encouraging and provide initial support for the acceptability of BlueIce as a self-help intervention used in conjunction with the traditional face-to-face therapy.
Neurocognitive and Educational Outcomes in Children and Adolescents with CKD
Authors: Chen Kerry , Didsbury Madeleine , van Zwieten Anita , Howell Martin , Kim Siah , Tong Allison , Howard Kirsten , Nassar Natasha , Barton Belinda , Lah Suncica , Lorenzo Jennifer , Strippoli Giovanni , Palmer Suetonia , Teixeira-Pinto Armando , Mackie Fiona , McTaggart Steven , Walker Amanda , Kara Tonya , Craig Jonathan C. , Wong Germaine
Published: February 2018

Background and objectives

Poor cognition can affect educational attainment, but the extent of neurocognitive impairment in children with CKD is not well understood. This systematic review assessed global and domain-specific cognition and academic skills in children with CKD and whether these outcomes varied with CKD stage.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Electronic databases were searched for observational studies of children with CKD ages 21 years old or younger that assessed neurocognitive or educational outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using a modified Newcastle–Ottawa scale. We used random effects models and expressed the estimates as mean differences with 95% confidence intervals stratified by CKD stage.

Results

Thirty-four studies (25 cross-sectional, n=2095; nine cohort, n=991) were included. The overall risk of bias was high because of selection and measurement biases. The global cognition (full-scale intelligence quotient) of children with CKD was classified as low average. Compared with the general population, the mean differences (95% confidence intervals) in full-scale intelligence quotient were −10.5 (95% confidence interval, −13.2 to −7.72; all CKD stages, n=758), −9.39 (95% confidence interval, −12.6 to −6.18; mild to moderate stage CKD, n=582), −16.2 (95% confidence interval, −33.2 to 0.86; dialysis, n=23), and −11.2 (95% confidence interval, −17.8 to −4.50; transplant, n=153). Direct comparisons showed that children with mild to moderate stage CKD and kidney transplants scored 11.2 (95% confidence interval, 2.98 to 19.4) and 10.1 (95% confidence interval, −1.81 to 22.0) full-scale intelligence quotient points higher than children on dialysis. Children with CKD also had lower scores than the general population in executive function and memory (verbal and visual) domains. Compared with children without CKD, the mean differences in academic skills (n=518) ranged from −15.7 to −1.22 for mathematics, from −9.04 to −0.17 for reading, and from −14.2 to 2.53 for spelling.

Conclusions

Children with CKD may have low-average cognition compared with the general population, with mild deficits observed across academic skills, executive function, and visual and verbal memory. Limited evidence suggests that children on dialysis may be at greatest risk compared with children with mild to moderate stage CKD and transplant recipients.