bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation Between EFL Learners Self-Confidence and Speaking Skill
Authors: Hasan Hasan , Hanafi Muhammad , Sadapotto Andi
Published: July 2020

This article aims to describe whether there is a relationship between students 'self-confidence and students' speaking abilities. This study uses cluster sampling methods and oral tests. The population in this study were VII grade students of SMPN 9 Pinrang. The total population is 104 students. The sample used was class VIIL.1 totaling 28 students. The method used in speech evaluation is an oral test. The results of research using Pearson Product Moment obtained r count value of 0.700 and with the product value of r products when products with N = 28 found 0.478 at 1% significance level and found 0.374 at a significant level of 5%. To find out the level of product moment correlation the coefficient of 0.61-0.80 = substantial. This can be seen in the results of the analysis, namely: 0.700> 0.478 (5%) and 0.700 0.374 (1%) with db: 28. This means that Ho is rejected and Ha is accepted. The conclusion of this research is that there is a significant relationship between students 'self-confidence and the eight-year students' speaking ability in SMPN 9 Pinrang.
MEWUJUDKAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN PUBLIK MELALUI KOMUNIKASI ETIS APARATUR SIPIL NEGARA
Authors: Suhifatullah M I
Published: July 2020

Aparat Sipil Negara (ASN) dituntut untuk  mewujudkan tata pemerintahan yang baik (good governance) atau bermutu, khususnya dalam pelayanan publik. Untuk mewujudkan hal tersebut salah satu unsur penting yang harus dimiliki setiap pegawai adalah kemampuan komunikasi etis. Hal ini, karena nilai baik buruknya pelayanan publik sering kali diukur dari cara komunikasi petugas dalam memberi pelayanan terhadap masyarakat. Atas dasar itu, maka komunikasi etis pegawai menjadi faktor determinan dalam mewujudkan kualitas pelayanan publik menuju good governance. Implikasi dari tulisan ini diharapkan dapat menginspirasi dan memotivasi ASN untuk meningkatkan kualitas komunikasinya sehingga dapat mewujudkan pelayanan prima terhadap masyarakat.
PENGARUH REKRUTMEN DAN KOMPETENSI GURU TERHADAP KINERJA GURU (Studi pada Sekolah Dasar Negeri di Kecamatan Cengkareng Jakarta Barat)
Authors: Agustini Dwi , Mulyadi Edi , Dahlan Jarnawi Afgani
Published: July 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh rekrutmen terhadap kinerja guru. Mengetahui pengaruh kompetensi guruterhadap kinerja guru. Mengetahui pengaruh rerkutmen dan kompetensi guru secara bersama sama terhadap kinerja guru. Penelitian ini menggunakan multiple stage sample. Sampel berukuran 36 responden (kepela sekolah) berasal dari 2 SDN sebagai populasi terjangkau yang diambil dari populasi target berjumlah 80 SDN di Kecamatan Cengkareng Jakarta Barat. Pengumpulan data dilaksanakan dengan penyebaran angket. Analisis data dilakukan dengan metode survey dengan pendekatan kuantitatif teknik regresi dan korelasi. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan dari bulan April sampai dengan Juli 2017. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan: (1)Terjadi pengaruh yang kurang kuat antara rekrutmen dengan kinerja guru. Hal ini dapat dibuktikan dengan memperhatikan nilai r = 0,146. (2)Terjadi pengaruh yang kuat antara kompetensi guru dengan kinerja guru. Hal ini dapat dibuktikan dengan memperhatikan nilai r = 0,405 (3) Terjadi pengaruh yang kuat atara rekrutmen dan kompetensi guru secara bersama sama dengankinerja guru. Hal ini dapat dibutikan dari nilai r = 0,426.Berdasarkan data diatas dapat simpulkan bahwa rekrutmen dan kompetensi guru baik secara sendiri maupun secara bersama-sama memberikan sumbanagan yang berarti terhadap kinerja guru di Seklah Dasar Negeri Cengkareng Jarta Barat.Kata Kunci: Rekrutmen. Kompetensi Guru, dan Kinerja Guru
Intervensi Bermain Teraupeutik Terhadap Saturasi Oksigen Anak Usia Prasekolah Dengan Pneumonia
Authors: Gea Nurti Yunika Kristina Yunika , Nurhaeni Nani
Published: July 2020

The experience of being treated can have negative emotional effects that affect the physiological functions of the child. Interventions in the form of therapeutic play are needed to reduce negative effects, blowing balloons and singing are expected to prevent pneumonia complications. This literature study aims to see how valid therapeutic play in this case blowing up balloons and singing can support the improvement of breathing of children with pneumonia. This literature review uses the Proquest, Ebsco, Sciencedirect and Wiley databases (2009-2019), of 15 articles. Finally 9 articles were selected and it was found that playing with music and singing and blowing balloons or modifying pursed lip breathing can significantly improve oxygenation status for children.

Keywords: children; pneumonia; therapeutic play; modified pursed lip breathing; blow balloons; sing; O2 saturation

ABSTRAK

Pengalaman dirawat dapat menimbulkan efek emosional negatif yang berdampak terhadap fungsi fisiologis bagi anak. Intervensi berupa bermain terapeutik diperlukan untuk dapat mengurangi efek negatif, meniup balon dan bernyanyi diharapkan dapat mencegah komplikasi pneumonia. Studi literatur ini bertujuan untuk melihat seberapa valid bermain terapeutik dalam hal ini meniup balon dan bernyanyi dapat mendukung perbaikan pernapasan anak dengan pneumonia. Tinjauan literatur ini menggunakan database Proquest, Ebsco, Sciencedirect dan Wiley (2009-2019), terhadap 15 artikel. Akhirnya terpilih 9 artikel dan ditemukan bahwa bermain terpeutik bernyanyi dan meniup balon atau modifikasi pursed lip breathing secara signifikan dapat meningkatkan status oksigenasi bagi anak.

Kata kunci: anak; pneumonia; bermain terapeutik; modifikasi pursed lip breathing; menghembus balon; bernyanyi; saturasi O2
Persepsi Ibu Terhadap Penggunaan Smartphone di Lingkungan Keluarga
Authors: 'Ulya Zakiyatul , Lestari Pudji , Ulfiana Elida
Published: July 2020

The use of smartphones without restrictions will have a negative impact on users and other family members. The Theory of Planned Behavior concept states that behavior can be formed through the existence of perceptions (beliefs) from within the individual itself, one of which is in the form of behavioral beliefs. The purpose of this study was to find out how mothers perceptions of smartphone usage in the family circle. This study was a descriptive explanatory study design with 119 respondents, selected using simple random sampling techniques in Ulujami sub-district, Pemalang district, Central Java. The results showed that most of mother's had a negative behavioral beliefs. These mean that in mother's perceptions, using smartphone while gathering with family was not a problem that needs to be avoided. Negative perceptions would lead to a behavior of using smartphones excessively and became inattentive while having social interactions with other family members. It could increase the risk of decreasing quality of family health. With the results, it is expected that nurses can provide health promotion through rules of smartphones usage in the family and reduce a phubbing behavior.

Keywords: beliefs; smartphone; family

ABSTRAK

Penggunaan smartphone yang tanpa batasan akan menimbulkan dampak negatif bagi pengguna maupun anggota keluarga lainnya. Konsep Theory of Planned Behavior menyebutkan bahwa perilaku dapat terbentuk melalui adanya persepsi (beliefs) dari dalam individu sendiri salah satunya berupa behavioral beliefs. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana persepsi ibu terhadap penggunaan smartphone di lingkungan keluarga. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif dengan 119 responden, yang dipilih menggunakan teknik simple random sampling di Kecamatan Ulujami, Kabupaten Pemalang, Jawa Tengah. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa behavioral beliefs ibu sebagian besar negatif, berarti ibu mempunyai persepsi penggunaan smartphone saat sedang bersama keluarga bukanlah suatu masalah yang perlu dihindari. Persepsi yang negatif akan membentuk kebiasaan atau perilaku penggunaan smartphone yang tinggi dan acuh meskipun sedang berinteraksi sosial dengan anggota keluarga lainnya serta meningkatkan resiko terganggunya kualitas kesehatan keluarga. Adanya hasil penelitian ini diharapkan perawat dapat memberikan promosi kesehatan berupa aturan bijak dalam menggunakan smartphone di lingkungan sosial keluarga dan sehingga diharapkan merubah persepsi ibu yang negatif menjadi positif dan menurunkan perilaku phubbing.

Kata kunci: persepsi; smartphone; keluarga
On the Optimal Calculation of the Rice Coding Parameter
Authors: Solano Donado Fernando
Published: July 2020

In this article, we design and evaluate several algorithms for the computation of the optimal Rice coding parameter. We conjecture that the optimal Rice coding parameter can be bounded and verify this conjecture through numerical experiments using real data. We also describe algorithms that partition the input sequence of data into sub-sequences, such that if each sub-sequence is coded with a different Rice parameter, the overall code length is minimised. An algorithm for finding the optimal partitioning solution for Rice codes is proposed, as well as fast heuristics, based on the understanding of the problem trade-offs.
Comparative Analysis and Optimization of Technical and Weight Parameters of Turbo-Electric Propulsion Systems
Authors: Filipenko Mykhaylo , Biser Stefan , Boll Martin , Corduan Matthias , Noe Mathias , Rostek Peter
Published: July 2020

According to Flightpath 2050, the aviation industry is aiming to substantially reduce emissions over the coming decades. One possible solution to meet these ambitious goals is by moving to hybrid-electric drivetrain architectures which require the electric components to be extremely lightweight and efficient at the same time. It has been claimed in several publications that cryogenic and in particular superconducting components can help to fulfill such requirements that potentially cannot be achieved with non-cryogenic components. The purpose of this work was to make a fair comparison between a cryogenic turbo-electric propulsion system (CEPS) and a non-cryogenic turbo-electric propulsion system (TEPS) on a quantitative level. The results on the CEPS were presented in detail in a previous publication. The focus of this publication is to present the study on the TEPS, which in conclusion allows a direct comparison. For both systems the same top-level aircraft requirements were used that were derived within the project TELOS based on an exemplary mission profile and the physical measures of a 220-passenger aircraft. Our study concludes that a CEPS could be 10% to 40% lighter than a TEPS. Furthermore, a CEPS could have a total efficiency gain of up to 18% compared to a similar TEPS.
Impact of Ag Nanoparticles on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Green Beans in Normal and Chill Temperatures
Authors: Prażak Roman , Święciło Agata , Krzepiłko Anna , Michałek Sławomir , Arczewska Marta
Published: July 2020

The study analysed the effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on seed germination, field emergence and the physiological parameters of seedlings of two bean cultivars, ‘Bali’ and ‘Delfina’, under normal and chill temperatures. AgNPs solutions (0.25, 1.25 and 2.5 mg dm−3) were applied together with the microbial preparation Nitragina (containing Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. phaseoli) on seeds as a short-term pre-sowing treatment. Low concentrations of AgNPs (0.25, 1.25 mg dm−3) had an immediate beneficial effect, resulting in fast and uniform germination in laboratory and field conditions, as well as a positive effect in the later stages of seedling development, manifested as an increase in the average seedling height, fresh and dry weight and net photosynthesis. Particularly, favourable effects were noted in suboptimal temperature conditions, suggesting that AgNPs activate plant mechanisms of tolerance to environmental stress. The highest concentration tested of AgNPs was not particularly effective for the plants but had a strong antimicrobial effect, which was beneficial in period of seed germination, but at the later stage of plant development was unfavourable probably due to disruption of symbiosis between the bean seedlings and rhizobia.
Seedling Growth and Phosphorus Uptake in Response to Different Phosphorus Sources
Authors: Mäkelä Pirjo S. A. , Wasonga Daniel O. , Solano Hernandez Ainhoa , Santanen Arja
Published: July 2020

Phosphorus (P) is an essential element for plant growth and development. Finding new P sources and ways to improve crop P utilization are necessary due to the depletion of phosphate reserves. Five crop species, buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum L.), maize (Zea mays L.), oilseed rape (Brassica napus L. ssp. oleifera (Moench) Metzg.), spelt wheat (Triticum spelta L.), and white lupine (Lupinus albus L.), were grown in pots containing sandy soil with chemical nutrients, digestate, and meat bone meal (MBM) without added nutrients. Thirty days after the seeding plants were harvested, the growth stage, soil-plant analysis development (SPAD) value, biomass, P content of the plants, colonization of the roots with endomycorrhiza, and soil pH were analyzed, and the number of fungal spores in the soil was counted. All species showed interaction with the P sources for measured traits, except for the rhizosphere pH. A high biomass was recorded in all species fertilized with various P sources compared to the unfertilized treatment. Buckwheat and spelt wheat showed a higher P uptake with MBM, and the mycorrhizal symbiosis improved with digestate or MBM compared to synthetic P. The results indicate that different species have adaptative mechanisms to various P sources which could improve the resilience and sustainability of cropping systems.
A Standard Methodology for Evaluation of Mechanical Maize Seed Meters for Smallholder Farmers Comparing Devices from Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Asia
Authors: Van Loon Jelle , Krupnik Timothy J. , López-Gómez Jesús A. , Timsina Jagadish , Govaerts Bram
Published: July 2020

Precision planting represents an opportunity for farmers to increase income. Seeders and associated seed meters are prerequisite to achieve optimal plant density. However, to assure seed meter performance in smallholder conditions, a comprehensive procedure is lacking. This study develops a methodology for mechanical maize meter evaluation that compares diverse meters in terms of seed singulation, seed damage, and spatial distribution. An experiment assessed 10 m, representing roller types, and inclined, vertical, and horizontal plates collected from various continents and representative of commonly used devices by smallholders. A conveyer-belt setup allowed for seed distribution analysis and the influence of vibration and topography on the seed singulation was determined. Results revealed that a rotational velocity of 20 revolutions per minute (RPM) was optimum for most meters, while all complied with the norm NMX-O-168-SCFI-2009 in terms of seed damage. Independent of the singulation mechanism, devices with the ability to adjust to seed size performed better. The Fitarelli horizontal plate, followed by the BARI-9 inclined plate meter, are considered ‘best-bet’ performers. Although, considering absolute efficiency, two inclined plate devices worked at near-perfect performance with large seeds. Our study develops a low-cost methodology, easily replicated and implemented, and provides a baseline for continued research on seed meter evaluation.
Evaluation of Recycled Materials as Hydroponic Growing Media
Authors: Kennard Nicole , Stirling Ross , Prashar Ankush , Lopez-Capel Elisa
Published: July 2020

Conventional soilless growing media, such as perlite, are mined from nonrenewable resources and can only be disposed of in landfills after limited use. There is a need to investigate novel, sustainable growing media adapted from waste or engineered to be reused over multiple cycles. This study investigated waste almond shells and a recycled plastic drainage plank as hydroponic growing media alternatives. Physiochemical properties were evaluated, and a germination and greenhouse growth trial was conducted to understand the effect these media have on production and nutritional quality of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Catalogna Verde). Drought testing was carried out to understand how the media affected the lettuce’s response to water stress. In comparison to perlite, yields under regular irrigation were reduced by 52% in almond shells and 72% in plastic planks, although lettuce grown in almond shells still obtained commercially relevant yields. Reduced yields in almond shells were likely caused by the shell’s high salinity. Lettuce growth in plastic planks was limited by impeded root growth and low water-holding capacity. In conclusion, with minor alterations, almond shells could be used as a sustainable growing media alternative to perlite in hydroponic lettuce production. More research is needed to manufacture the planks to be conducive to plant growth.
Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LHRH) Conjugated Magnetite Nanoparticles as MRI Contrast Agents for Breast Cancer Imaging
Authors: Hu Jingjie , Obayemi John , Malatesta Karen , Yurkow Edward , Adler Derek , Soboyejo Winston
Published: July 2020

Targeted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents offer platforms for the specific detection of many diseases, including cancer. This study explores the applicability of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone-conjugated PEG-coated magnetite nanoparticles (LHRH-MNPs) to the enhancement of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) detection. In vitro MRI studies were first performed, showing the consistent darkening effect of both MNPs and LHRH-MNPs in T2-weighted maps. Using a mouse model with an induced subcutaneous tumor, MNPs and LHRH-MNPs were injected into xenograft MDA-MB-231. This was done through intratumoral and intravenous injections, respectively, enabling direction comparisons of the two nanoparticles. Intratumorally injected LHRH-MNPs maintained T2 signals within the breast tumors up to two weeks, revealing long-term tumor enhancement ability, while the signal started to recover towards the contrast of the original tumor before injection in the case of MNPs at 24 h post injection. For intravenous administration, LHRH-MNPs continued to darken breast tumor 24 h following injection, whereas contrast enhancement was not obvious in animals injected with MNPs. These results show the potential of LHRH-MNPs as negative contrast agents for the specific detection of TNBC.
Investigations of Mixing Technique on the Rheological Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete
Authors: Li Huajian , Huang Fali , Yi Zhonglai , Wang Zhen , Zhang Yong , Yang Zhengxian
Published: July 2020

Rheological properties are of significant importance in successful placement and performance of self-compacting concrete (SCC). In this work, the rheological properties of SCC, combined with a powder-viscosity modifying admixture, were investigated based on a series of experimental studies. The modified Bingham model was applied to determine the rheological parameters and shear thickening behavior of SCC. The effects of mixing procedures, including charging sequence, mixing time and mixing speed, were analyzed. The results show that the shear thickening of SCC is reduced by first mixing the aggregate and water and then adding other raw materials. The direct contact between aggregate and water leads to a large amount of free water to be adsorbed by the aggregate system, resulting in an increase of the yield stress. In order to ensure an excellent fluidity and a low shear thickening behavior of SCC, the mixing time should be controlled at 4–5 min and the mixing speed at 30–45 r/min.
Artificial Pancreas Control Strategies Used for Type 1 Diabetes Control and Treatment: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Mehmood Sohaib , Ahmad Imran , Arif Hadeeqa , Ammara Umm , Majeed Abdul
Published: July 2020

This paper presents a comprehensive survey about the fundamental components of the artificial pancreas (AP) system including insulin administration and delivery, glucose measurement (GM), and control strategies/algorithms used for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) treatment and control. Our main focus is on the T1DM that emerges due to pancreas’s failure to produce sufficient insulin due to the loss of beta cells (β-cells). We discuss various insulin administration and delivery methods including physiological methods, open-loop, and closed-loop schemes. Furthermore, we report several factors such as hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and many other physical factors that need to be considered while infusing insulin in human body via AP systems. We discuss three prominent control algorithms including proportional-integral- derivative (PID), fuzzy logic, and model predictive, which have been clinically evaluated and have all shown promising results. In addition, linear and non-linear insulin infusion control schemes have been formally discussed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work which systematically covers recent developments in the AP components with a solid foundation for future studies in the T1DM field.
Trends of UV Radiation in Antarctica
Authors: Bernhard Germar , Stierle Scott
Published: July 2020

The success of the Montreal Protocol in curbing increases in harmful solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation at the Earth’s surface has recently been demonstrated. This study also provided evidence that the UV Index (UVI) measured by SUV-100 spectroradiometers at three Antarctic sites (South Pole, Arrival Heights, and Palmer Station) is now decreasing. For example, a significant (95% confidence level) downward trend of −5.5% per decade was reported at Arrival Heights for summer (December through February). However, it was also noted that these measurements are potentially affected by long-term drifts in calibrations of approximately 1% per decade. To address this issue, we have reviewed the chain of calibrations implemented at the three sites between 1996 and 2018 and applied corrections for changes in the scales of spectral irradiance (SoSI) that have occurred over this period (Method 1). This analysis resulted in an upward correction of UVI data measured after 2012 by 1.7% to 1.8%, plus smaller adjustments for several shorter periods. In addition, we have compared measurements during clear skies with model calculations to identify and correct anomalies in the measurements (Method 2). Corrections from both methods reduced decadal trends in UVI on average by 1.7% at the South Pole, 2.1% at Arrival Heights, and 1.6% at Palmer Station. Trends in UVI calculated from the corrected dataset are consistent with concomitant trends in ozone. The decadal trend in UVI calculated from the corrected dataset for summer at Arrival Heights is −3.3% and is significant at the 90% level. Analysis of spectral irradiance measurements at 340 nm suggests that this trend is partially caused by changes in sea ice cover adjacent to the station. For the South Pole, a significant (95% level) trend in UVI of −3.9% per decade was derived for January. This trend can partly be explained by a significant positive trend in total ozone of about 3% per decade, which was calculated from SUV-100 and Dobson measurements. Our study provides further evidence that UVIs are now decreasing in Antarctica during summer months. Reductions have not yet emerged during spring when the ozone hole leads to large UVI variability.
The Antiviral Properties of Cyclosporine. Focus on Coronavirus, Hepatitis C Virus, Influenza Virus, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infections
Authors: Glowacka Paulina , Rudnicka Lidia , Warszawik-Hendzel Olga , Sikora Mariusz , Goldust Mohamad , Gajda Patrycja , Stochmal Anna , Blicharz Leszek , Rakowska Adriana , Olszewska Malgorzata
Published: July 2020

This review updates current knowledge regarding the risk of viral infections, including COVID-19, in patients treated with cyclosporine. We also shortly refer to bacterial infections and parasitic infestations in patients treated with cyclosporin. Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive drug, which is widely used in medicine, including in the treatment of autoimmune skin diseases in dermatology, rheumatology, ophthalmology and nephrology, and in organ transplantation. A usual concern associated with immunosuppressive treatment is the potential risk of infections. Interestingly, several data indicate a relatively low risk of infections, especially viral infections, in patients receiving cyclosporine. It was shown that cyclosporine exerts an inhibitory effect on the replication of some viruses, or may have a potentially beneficial effect on the disease course in infections. These include hepatitis C, influenza virus, rotavirus, human immunodeficiency virus and coronavirus infections. Available data indicate that cyclosporine may have a beneficial effect on COVID-19, which is caused by the coronavirus SARS-COV2.
Actigraph-Measured Movement Correlates of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Symptoms in Young People with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) with and without Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Authors: Earnest Tom , Shephard Elizabeth , Tye Charlotte , McEwen Fiona , Woodhouse Emma , Liang Holan , Sheerin Fintan , Bolton Patrick F.
Published: July 2020

Actigraphy, an objective measure of motor activity, reliably indexes increased movement levels in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and may be useful for diagnosis and treatment-monitoring. However, actigraphy has not been examined in complex neurodevelopmental conditions. This study used actigraphy to objectively measure movement levels in individuals with a complex neurodevelopmental genetic disorder, tuberous sclerosis (TSC). Thirty participants with TSC (11–21 years, 20 females, IQ = 35–108) underwent brief (approximately 1 h) daytime actigraph assessment during two settings: movie viewing and cognitive testing. Multiple linear regressions were used to test associations between movement measurements and parent-rated ADHD symptoms. Correlations were used to examine associations between actigraph measures and parent-rated ADHD symptoms and other characteristics of TSC (symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual ability (IQ), epilepsy severity, cortical tuber count). Higher movement levels during movies were associated with higher parent-rated ADHD symptoms. Higher ADHD symptoms and actigraph-measured movement levels during movies were positively associated with ASD symptoms and negatively associated with IQ. Inter-individual variability of movement during movies was not associated with parent-rated hyperactivity or IQ but was negatively associated with ASD symptoms. There were no associations with tuber count or epilepsy. Our findings suggest that actigraph-measured movement provides a useful correlate of ADHD in TSC.
Electrochemical Sodium Ion Sensor Based on Silver Nanoparticles/Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite for Food Application
Authors: Traiwatcharanon Pranlekha , Siriwatcharapiboon Wilai , Wongchoosuk Chatchawal
Published: July 2020

High sodium ion (Na+) consumption leads to high blood pressure which causes many health issues. Real-time determination of Na+ content in food is still important to limit Na+ intake and control the taste of food. In this work, we have developed an electrochemical sensor based on agglomeration of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and graphene oxide (GO) modified on a screen-printed silver electrode (SPE) for Na+ detection at room temperature by using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The AgNPs were synthesized through a simple green route using Pistia stratiotes extract as a reducing agent under blue light illumination and mixed with the GO to be a Na+ selective sensing nanocomposite. The AgNPs/GO/SPE sensor showed high sensitivity (0.269 mA/mM/cm2), high selectivity, linear relationship (0–100 mM), good stability, and excellent reproducibility to Na+ detection as well as low limit of detection (9.344 mM) for food application. The interfering species such as K+, Zn2+, Na+, Mg2+, glucose, and ascorbic acid did not have any influence on the Na+ determination. The AgNPs/GO/SPE sensor was successfully applied to determine Na+ in real samples such as fish sauce and seasoning powder of instant noodle.
Architecture and Steel Prototype in Steel Structure with Equal Angles Steel Profiles, in Greek cross Shape, Applied in an Architectural Project
Authors: Campos Inês D. D. , Bernardo Luís F. A.
Published: July 2020

This is the second of two companion articles which aim to address the research on architecture and steel. In the first article, some architectural projects were analyzed to show the potentiality to conjugate architectural conception and steel structures (in sight), as well as to show the contribution and influence from architectural history. As a result of the previous work, this second article discusses the development of an innovative prototype in steel structure, which constitutes a modular system applied for a single-family housing. In this prototype, steel is part of the design concept, not only as a structural element, but also as an aesthetic element. The needs of contemporary “living” are reinterpreted, considering all the changes and cultural influences due to globalization, compared with the living in Portuguese popular architecture, with its simplistic character and minimal spaces, and referring to a place. The proposed modular system, which is applied repeatedly, shows a huge potential for reorganizing, in a short period of time, urban areas with housing shortages in cases of emergency, while respecting population needs and providing construction quality. This Prototype Model, which combines the architectural concept with the lightweight character of steel structures, aims to provide an “other” way of “living”. It transmits “harmony” both in the experience of the interior space and in its relationship with the outer space, respecting the cultural references. In this study, the prototype is applied to popular Portuguese schist architecture, combining the basic structuring idea and the way how the project develops for the application of the conceptual and constructive process, thus relating two periods of architecture.
Limited Practical Utility of Liquid Biopsy in the Treated Patients with Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Niwinska Anna , Bałabas Aneta , Kulecka Maria , Kluska Anna , Piątkowska Magdalena , Paziewska Agnieszka , Pyśniak Kazimiera , Olszewski Wojciech , Mikula Michał , Ostrowski Jerzy
Published: July 2020

Recently, liquid biopsy has emerged as a tool to monitor oncologic disease progression and the effects of treatment. In this study we aimed to determine the clinical utility of liquid biopsy relative to conventional oncological post-treatment surveillance. Plasma cell-free (cf) DNA was collected from six healthy women and 37 patients with breast cancer (18 and 19 with stage III and IV tumors, respectively). CfDNA was assessed using the Oncomine Pan-Cancer Cell-Free Assay. In cfDNA samples from patients with BC, 1112 variants were identified, with only a few recurrent or hotspot mutations within specific regions of cancer genes. Of 65 potentially pathogenic variants detected in tumors, only 19 were also discovered in at least one blood sample. The allele frequencies of detected variants (VAFs) were <1% in cfDNA from all controls and patients with stage III BC, and 24/85 (28.2%) variants had VAFs > 1% in only 8 of 25 (32%) patients with stage IV BC. Copy number variations (CNVs) spanning CDK4, MET, FGFR1, FGFR2, ERBB2, MYC, and CCND3 were found in 1 of 12 (8%) and 8 of 25 (32%) patients with stage III and IV tumors, respectively. In healthy controls and patients without BC progression after treatment, VAFs were <1%, while in patients with metastatic disease and/or more advanced genomic alterations, VAFs > 1% and/or CNV were detected in approximately 30%. Therefore, most patients with stage IV BC could not be distinguished from those with stage III disease following therapy, based on liquid biopsy results.
Binary-Addition Tree Algorithm-Based Resilience Assessment for Binary-State Network Problems
Authors: Su Yi-Zhu , Yeh Wei-Chang
Published: July 2020

Applications in real life are composed of different kinds of network systems; these networks may be interfered by uncontrollable or unpredictable disruptive events involving natural disasters, human errors, evil-intentioned attacks, or other disturbances. Any of these disruptive events will cause networks to malfunction and possibly result in large economic losses. As a result, it is important to assess network resilience which is a measure to describe how a network system recovers its performance and functionality to a satisfactory level from a disruptive event. Inspired by the measures of reliability evaluation used in binary-state networks, this paper proposes a binary-addition tree algorithm-based resilience assessment for binary-state networks and applies it on a wildfire network with wireless sensors. Considering the stochastic nature of disruptive events, the proposed binary-addition tree algorithm-based resilience assessment comprehensively enumerates all the possible disruptive events and all the corresponding recovery strategies, and then calculate the network resilience. Furthermore, recovery cost limit is concerned in this paper for decision makers who choose the recovery strategies with their recovery cost limit and resilience requirement.
A Sub-THz Wireless Power Transfer for Non-Contact Wafer-Level Testing
Authors: Dang-ba Hanh , Byun Gyung-su
Published: July 2020

In this paper, a sub-THz wireless power transfer (WPT) interface for non-contact wafer-level testing is proposed. The on-chip sub-THz couplers, which have been designed and analyzed with 3-D EM simulations, could be integrated into the WPT to transfer power through an air media. By using the sub-THz coils, the WPT occupies an extremely small chip size, which is suitable for future wafer-testing applications. In the best power transfer efficiency (PTE) condition of the WPT, the maximum power delivery is limited to 2.5 mW per channel. However, multi-channel sub-THz WPT could be a good solution to provide enough power for testing purposes while remaining high PTE. Simulated on a standard 28-nm CMOS technology, the proposed eight-channel WPT could provide 20 mW power with the PTE of 16%. The layouts of the eight-channel WPT transmitter and receiver occupy only 0.12 mm2, 0.098 mm2, respectively.
Intra- and Interspecific Interactions among Pioneer Trees Affect Forest-Biomass Carbon Accumulation in a Nutrient-Deficient Reclaimed Coal Mine Spoil
Authors: Yuan Ye , Ren Yingxiang , Gao Guoqing , Zhao Zhongqiu , Niu Shuye
Published: July 2020

Pioneer trees play a key role in the recovery of a reclaimed ecosystem that is nutrient-deficient in the initial stage of reclamation. Clarifying the growth of pioneer trees and their response to intra- or interspecific competition is of great importance to help stewards manage reclaimed forest. Nevertheless, such documents are lacking. We utilized forestry inventory data from a R. pseudoacacia and P. tabuliformis mixed forest plot with an area of 8000 m2 to find out the effect of trees interaction on their growth (indicated by the amount of biomass carbon per stem) in a nutrient-lacking reclaimed ecosystem 17 years after reclamation in Pingshuo opencast coal mine, Shanxi Province, China. In total, 2133 tree individuals were measured and tagged; the kriging interpolation method was applied to map spatial variation of forest-biomass carbon (C). Univariate and bivariate mark correlation functions were employed to examine the effect of intra- and interspecific interactions on tree’s biomass C accumulation. The results showed that tree biomass C was 27.84 Mg ha−1 in the forest. C class structure of planted R. pseudoacacia followed inversed J-shaped distribution and seeded-in R. pseudoacacia and Ulmus pumila (a spontaneous species) had L-shaped distribution. P. tabuliformis, however, followed a nearly normal distribution. Patchy distribution was observed with regard to C spatial arrangement of all tree species. In terms of the intraspecific correlation of biomass C, no significant competitive or facilitative interactions (GoF p ≥ 0.05) was observed among conspecific trees of seeded-in R. pseudoacacia and P. tabuliformis. In contrast, significant negative interactions (GoF p < 0.05) or repulsion correlations between biomass C of planted R. pseudoacacia individuals and U. pumila individuals were found at the scale of 1–2 and 0–8.5 m, respectively. In term of the interspecfic spatial correlation of biomass C, a significant positive interaction between the heterospecific individuals of planted R. pseudoacacia and seeded-in R. pseudoacacia was observed at the scale of 2.5–4 and 12.5–15 m. Similarly, seeded-in R. pseudoacacia and U. pumila were found to be attracted by P. tabuliformis at 7–9 and 0–2 m, respectively. Conversely, significant departure effect was observed at the scale of 1–3 m between the biomass C of U. pumila and planted R. pseudoacacia and 4.5–5.5 m between the biomass C of U. pumila and seeded-in R. pseudoacacia. Consequently, R. pseudoacacia and P. tabuliformis could coexist for a long term and P. tabuliformis was a species that facilitated the accumulation of C of other tree species. Overall, complex intra- and interspecific interactions in nutrient-limit reclamation ecosystem affected biomass C accumulation. R. pseudoacacia–P. tabuliformis mixed forest could be an efficient reclamation pattern to restore biomass C in the Loess Plateau area.
Effect of Silane Coupling Treatment on the Adhesion between Polyamide and Epoxy Based Composites Reinforced with Carbon Fibers
Authors: Fiore Vincenzo , Orlando Vincenzo , Sanfilippo Carmelo , Badagliacco Dionisio , Valenza Antonino
Published: July 2020

The increasing efforts aimed to design structures with reduced weight and better mechanical performances has led in recent years to a growing use of fiber reinforced polymer materials in several fields such as marine. However, these materials can be composed of chemically very different elements and, hence, may be difficult to joint. This research aims to improve the adhesion between a thermoplastic matrix of polyamide reinforced with short carbon fibers (PA12-CR) and a carbon fiber reinforced epoxy matrix (CFRP). Two different silane coupling agents, (3-Aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (AM) and (3-Glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane (EP), were applied, through the spray deposition method, on the PA12-CR substrate to create a reactive layer between the adherents. Different deposition methods and coupling agents curing conditions were also investigated. The wettability of the PA12-CR surface as well as the chemical modifications induced by silane treatments were investigated through contact angle and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. Furthermore, the interfacial adhesion between PA12-CR and CFRP substrates was evaluated through Mode I delamination tests (DCB). The effectiveness of the most promising treatment was finally verified on sandwich structures, having PA12-CR printed as internal core and CFRP laminates as external skins, through quasi-static three-point bending mechanical tests. Overall, the epoxy-based silane (EP) allowed significantly better resistance to the delamination up until the tensile failure of the CFRP substrate.
Design of Cascaded and Shifted Fractional-Order Lead Compensators for Plants with Monotonically Increasing Lags
Authors: Maione Guido
Published: July 2020

This paper concerns cascaded, shifted, fractional-order, lead compensators made by the serial connection of two stages introducing their respective phase leads in shifted adjacent frequency ranges. Adding up leads in these intervals gives a flat phase in a wide frequency range. Moreover, the simple elements of the cascade can be easily realized by rational transfer functions. On this basis, a method is proposed in order to design a robust controller for a class of benchmark plants that are difficult to compensate due to monotonically increasing lags. The simulation experiments show the efficiency, performance and robustness of the approach.
Surgical Smoke and Airborne Microbial Contamination in Operating Theatres: Influence of Ventilation and Surgical Phases
Authors: Romano Francesco , Milani Samanta , Gustén Jan , Joppolo Cesare Maria
Published: July 2020

Air cleanliness is a crucial factor in operating theatres (OTs), where the health of patients and staff must be preserved by controlling air contamination. Particular attention must be paid to ultrafine particles (UFPs) size range, generated for instance by electrosurgical instruments (ESTs). OT contamination is also affected by ventilation systems, medical staff and their gowning system, staff routines, instruments, etc. This comparative study is based on experimental measurements of airborne microbial contamination and UFPs carried out during real ongoing surgeries in two OTs equipped with upward displacement ventilation (UWD) and hybrid ventilation, with unidirectional airflow on the operating table and peripheral mixing (UDAF+Mixing) ventilation systems. Airborne contamination concentration at the exit grilles has been analyzed as function of four different surgical phases normally performed during an operation. Results highlight that airborne contamination is influenced by the activities carried out during the surgical phases. EST usage affects the contamination level more than staff size during operation observed. Colony forming unit (CFU) values in the protected area close to the patient’s wound are influenced more by the type of ventilation system than by surgical phases. CFU values decrease by 18 to 50 times from the UWD system to the hybrid one. The large airflow volumes supply together with high air velocities in OTs equipped with UDAF+Mixing systems guarantee a better and a safer airborne contamination control for patients and medical team in comparison with UWD systems.
Consensus on Criteria for Good Practices in Video Consultation: A Delphi Study
Authors: Jiménez-Rodríguez Diana , Ruiz-Salvador Diego , Rodríguez Salvador María del Mar , Pérez-Heredia Mercedes , Muñoz Ronda Francisco José , Arrogante Oscar
Published: July 2020

The use of telemedicine has greatly increased, largely derived from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has created the need for a guide aimed towards the adequate management of a modality of health care: the video consultation. A Delphi study composed of three rounds was conducted with 16 experts in holding video consultations and managing non-technical skills from different specialties and nationalities to conceive a consensus on the criteria needed for properly managing video consultations by healthcare professionals. The consensus criteria were defined by three dimensions (preparation of video consultation, video consultation process, and post-video consultation) and their corresponding items. Excellent consensus data was obtained; therefore, use is recommended by any healthcare professional who is going to utilize a video consultation, in order to manage it effectively.
How to Screen Suitable Service Improve Community Health Care Services by University Students in Taiwan
Authors: Shyu Guey-Shin , Lin Shinn-Jou , Fang Wei-Ta , Cheng Bai-You
Published: July 2020

Engaging in social contributions to enhance social participation and attending community experiential service learning or internship courses have become an essential learning experience for university students. On the basis of postmodern education theories, this study adopted images and oral accounts involving personal experiences to construct a postmodern education research scheme by using the method of collaborative ethnography. This study selected and performed the following services: filming a community documentary, administering community health dance classes, and archiving community cultural artifacts in databases. Interviews were also administered to facilitate implementation of the actual services. Community health services commonly seen in Taiwan and abroad were compiled, and the resources required for each service were examined. Subsequently, factor analysis was performed to explore the characteristic of these services in order to recommend feasible services for university students to undertake. The results indicated that the eight resources required for the 59 common community health services were (1) a designated space or venue, (2) materials, (3) monetary resources, (4) human resources, (5) expertise, (6) professional equipment, (7) patience, and (8) empathy. The results revealed three principal components, namely labor services, high-resource services, and professional services, for a total explanatory power of 67.99%; the individual explanatory power of these components accounted for 25.04%, 21.81%, and 21.15%, respectively. Next, community health care services suitable for university students to perform were selected and implemented, and these services were well received. The study results indicated that community and environmental justice can be realized by identifying with the value of community health services and promoting postmodern education theories and social norms. The research results are suitable for implementation after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Urinary Biomarkers of Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study Wave 1 (2013–2014)
Authors: De Jesús Víctor R. , Bhandari Deepak , Zhang Luyu , Reese Christopher , Capella Kimberly , Tevis Denise , Zhu Wanzhe , Del Valle-Pinero Arseima Y. , Lagaud Guy , Chang Joanne T. , van Bemmel Dana , Kimmel Heather L. , Sharma Eva , Goniewicz Maciej L. , Hyland Andrew , Blount Benjamin C.
Published: July 2020

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are ubiquitous in the environment. In the United States (U.S.), tobacco smoke is the major non-occupational source of exposure to many harmful VOCs. Exposure to VOCs can be assessed by measuring their urinary metabolites (VOCMs). The Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study is a U.S. national longitudinal study of tobacco use in the adult and youth civilian non-institutionalized population. We measured 20 VOCMs in urine specimens from a subsample of adults in Wave 1 (W1) (2013–2014) to characterize VOC exposures among tobacco product users and non-users. We calculated weighted geometric means (GMs) and percentiles of each VOCM for exclusive combustible product users (smokers), exclusive electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) users, exclusive smokeless product users, and tobacco product never users. We produced linear regression models for six VOCMs with sex, age, race, and tobacco user group as predictor variables. Creatinine-ratioed levels of VOCMs from exposure to acrolein, crotonaldehyde, isoprene, acrylonitrile, and 1,3-butadiene were significantly higher in smokers than in never users. Small differences of VOCM levels among exclusive e-cigarette users and smokeless users were observed when compared to never users. Smokers showed higher VOCM concentrations than e-cigarette, smokeless, and never users. Urinary VOC metabolites are useful biomarkers of exposure to harmful VOCs.