bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sorption of V and VI group metalloids (As, Sb, Te) on modified peat sorbents
Authors: Ansone-Bertina Linda , Klavins Maris
Published: March 2016

The present work investigates arsenic, antimony and tellurium sorption using iron modified peat. The results were obtained using batch tests and the sorption was studied as a function of initial metalloid concentration, pH and sorption time, as well as the presence of competing substances. The obtained results indicate that modification of peat with Fe compounds significantly enhances the sorption capacity of the sorbents used for sorption of arsenic, antimony and tellurium. The optimal pH interval for the sorption of Sb(III) is 6.5–9 and for As(V) and Sb(V) – 3–6, while As(III) and tellurium sorption using Fe-modified peat is favourable in a wider interval of 3–9. The presence of competing ions as well as HA affect sorption of metalloids on Fe-modified peat. A minor impact on the reduction of metalloid sorption was detected in the presence of nitrate, sulphate, carbonate and tartrate ions, while in the presence of phosphate and HA the sorption ability of metalloids can be considerably reduced. The obtained results of kinetic experiments indicate that sorption of metalloids on Fe-modified peat mainly occurs relying on mechanisms of physical sorption processes.
Repetitive inductions of bioluminescence of Pseudomonas putida TVA8 immobilised by adsorption on optical fibre
Authors: Zajíc Jakub , Bittner Milan , Brányik Tomáš , Solovyev Andrey , Šabata Stanislav , Kuncová Gabriela , Pospíšilová Marie
Published: March 2016

Physico–chemical models of the interactions of cells with solid surfaces, which use contact angles and zeta potentials, indicated more facile adsorption of cells of
Marie de l’Incarnation d’après Jean-Daniel Lafond : l’amour d’une sainte contre la barbarie actuelle
Authors: Bonesso Amandine
Published: March 2016

The contribution examines the documentary Folle de Dieu (2008) and the play Marie de l'Incarnation ou La déraison d'amour (2009), Jean-Daniel Lafond’s adaptations of Marie de l’Incarnation’s (1599-1672) autobiographical texts. The study demonstrates that the two works, the last in a long biographical tradition, construe the nun’s life as a humanitarian model through the theme of love. In this manner, the film-maker encourages the current society not to give way to the bellicose violence of the last century and to rethink the future as a possible happiness.
Vernunft oder Wahnsinn?
Authors: Renz Ursula
Published: March 2016

This paper discusses trust as a condition of the possibility of enlightenment. It claims that trust matters for the capacity to accept rather than to justify beliefs. This view is defended against the background of a functional approach to trust according to which it is by virtue of trust that people may enter into and sustain stable, potentially reflexive, and affirmative relations to all kinds of relata, not exclusively other people. All in all, a distinction between two theoretical layers is proposed: a transcendental-philosophical layer which examines whether trust is a condition of epistemic action, and a normative layer which discusses the problems of the justification of trust. This distinction, it is argued, is crucial to defending the ideal of enlightenment, or epistemic autonomy: before one can discuss problems of the justification of trust, trust is to be understood as a condition of the possibility of acting or, in epistemic contexts, of accepting beliefs.
Method of corrections by higher order differences for elliptic equations with variable coefficients
Authors: Berikelashvili Givi , Midodashvili Bidzina
Published: March 2016

We consider the Dirichlet problem for an elliptic equation with variable coefficients, the solution of which is obtained by means of a finite-difference scheme of second order accuracy.
We establish a two-stage finite-difference method for the posed problem and obtain an estimate of the convergence rate consistent with the smoothness of the solution. It is proved that the solution of the corrected scheme converges at rate

O
(
|
h

|
m

)

${O(|h|^m)}$

in the discrete L
2-norm, when the solution of the original problem belongs to the Sobolev space with exponent

m
∈
[
2
,
4
]

${m\in [2,4]}$

.
Sewerage Pumping Station Optimization Under Real Conditions
Authors: Chabal Lukas , Stanko Stefan
Published: March 2016

Construction of a sewer system on a flat area is characterized by a large number of pumping stations (PS), which implies the probability of occurrence of technical problems and increases operational costs. The article focuses on drainage methods for municipalities situated on a flat area where it is necessary to build up a large number of pumping stations. Problems occur in case of multiple serial, parallel or combined connections of PSs. Energy costs can outweigh other costs, especially if the PS runs more than 2000 hours per year (Wilson et al., 2010). It has been shown that there is a large technical and economic potential for energy savings in sewage pumping. The pumping of waste waters in Slovakia is mostly based on the START-STOP method. This means that the pumps operate at all times at full power. In practice, we can also meet with oversizing of pumps. These and other facts lead to increased power consumption.

Also rainwater infiltration and “black” stormwater connections belong to significant present problems in sewer system operation. Large amounts of storm water in a sewerage PS lead to increasing intensity of wastewater pumping, which is reflected in increasing operational costs.

Optimization of such sewer system is based on mathematical modelling and was implemented in the “Ivanka pri Dunaji” municipality, close to Bratislava - the capital of Slovakia where the above mentioned problems in wastewater discharge cause considerable operating costs and inefficient performance of the system as a whole for a long time. Due to the enormous houses development, the system is inadequately loaded by rain waters as well. Also poor discipline of property owners contributes to the inauspicious situation to a great extent. Despite a ban of connections, paved areas are drained into the sewage system very often. The identification of such connections is very problematic with regard to ownership rights. Rain waters in sewages can degrade the quality of wastewaters, increase operating costs of pumping and reduce system life cycle. It was demonstrated by mathematical modelling that with the use of information technologies, it is possible to make the existing sewerage systems more effective or propose a new system of pumping and discharging waste waters.
Corrosion Tests at the Water Treatment Plant in Jakubany / Korózne Skúšky Na Úpravní Vody Jakubany
Authors: Galík Matúš , Kriš Jozef , Ilavský Ján
Published: March 2016

External corrosion, which depends on environmental and operating conditions, is the main cause of structural deterioration of all metallic mains. Internal corrosion, on the other hand, can cause significant functional (hydraulic, water quality) deterioration within a distribution system. This work deals with the corrosion of water pipes which greatly affects the durability and failure rate of water systems. The test is evaluated in accordance with STN 75 7151 and ASTM D2688-11. The corrosion tests were carried out on raw and treated water at the water treatment plant in Jakubany.
Assessment of Blasting Operations Effects During Highway Tunnel Construction
Authors: Valašková Veronika , Papán Daniel , Drusa Marián
Published: March 2016

Blasting operations are one of the fundamental parts of daily civil engineering. Drilling and blasting still remain the only possible ways of tunnelling in very adverse geological conditions. However, this method is a source of various disadvantages, the main one being tremors propagating through the geological environment which not only affect buildings, but also disturb the comfort of living in the vicinity of the source. Designing this procedure is mostly done using standardized empirical relations. This article shows the possibility of using a FEM technique in predicting blast effects. This approach is demonstrated in a simple case study on the impact of blasting operations on steel pipes.
Morphological and molecular characterization of Xiphinema species from Shenzhen, China
Authors: Zeng Y. , Ye W. , Zhang Z. , Sun H. , Yong L. , Huang Y. , Zhao K. , Liang H. , Kerns J.
Published: March 2016

During a nematode biodiversity survey from 2012 to 2014 in Shenzhen, China, ten nematode populations (SZX1301–SZX1310) of Xiphinema were recovered from rhizosphere of different plants, namely Acacia mangium (SZX1306), A. confuse (SZX1309), Blechnum orientale (SZX1301, SZX1302, SZX1307, SZX1308), Litchi chinensis (SZX1304, SZX1310) in Tianxinshan and Gleichenia linearis (SZX1303, SZX1305) in Yangmeikeng environmental monitoring sites. Morphological and molecular profiles of these populations were determined. Three species of Xiphinema, i.e., X. hunanienseWang & Wu, 1992, X. brasilienseLordello, 1951 and X. americanum Cobb, 1913 sensu lato were identified using morphological characters and molecular data of partial 18S and 28S D2–D3 rDNA expansion segments. Four populations (SZX1301–SZX1304) were X. hunaniense, one population (SZX1305) X. brasiliense, and five populations (SZX1306–SZX1310) X. americanum s.l.. Phylogenetic analysis based on sequences of the 28S rDNA D2–D3 expansion segment revealed these three species are all distinct species and supported a close relationship with their corresponding species. This is the first report of X. hunaniense, X. brasiliense and X. americanum s.l. in their hosts except for L. chinensis.
Intestinal helminths of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in north-west Italy
Authors: Magi M. , Guardone L. , Mignone W. , Prati M. C. , Macchioni F.
Published: March 2016

A total of 180 foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from an area scarcely investigated of north-west Italy, were examined for intestinal helminths using sedimentation and counting technique (SCT). Faecal samples were submitted to centrifugation with 50 % zinc sulphate used as flotation solution.

No fox was found completely negative for intestinal helminths. The most frequently identified nematodes were Uncinaria stenocephala (70.0 %), Molineus legerae (27.2 %), Toxocara canis (26.7 %), Toxascaris leonina (25.6 %), Trichuris vulpis (21.1 %), Aonchotheca putorii (8.9 %), Pterygodermatites affinis (5.6 %). Genus Mesocestoides (81.7 %), family Dilepididae (29.4 %) and Taenia spp. (8.3 %) were the most prevalent cestodes. All foxes were negative for E. multilocularis and E. granulosus. In two foxes trematodes belonging to the family Plagiorchidae were found.

The study highlighted that foxes are hosts of intestinal helminths of veterinary and medical importance which may be transmitted to dogs and humans.
Chordatortilis crassicauda Mendonça et Rodriguez, 1965 (Spirurida, Acuariidae) in wren Troglodytes troglodytes (Passeriformes) in Europe: a new host and geographical record
Authors: Okulewicz A. , Rząd I.
Published: March 2016

IThe nematode Chordatortilis crassicauda Mendonҫa et Rodriguez, 1965 (Nematoda, Acuariidae)had previously been recorded only one time, in Brazil, as a parasite of T. musculus musculus Naumann.Thus the record of this species in Poland, in Europe, on another continent and in a different species of the genus Troglodytes, is worthy of presentation. The aim of the study is to document the resence of Chordatortilis crassicauda (Nematoda, Acuariidae) in the Wren Troglodytes troglodytes. Four Chordatortilis crassicauda individuals (three female and one male) were found between the proventriculus and muscular stomach of one T. troglodytes individual (adult female) collected in the village of Wicie on the Baltic Coast (north-western Poland) on 28 April 2013. The Wren is a new hostrecord for C. crassicauda. The fact that C. crassicauda had not previously been recorded in Europe may indicate that it is a rare species, specific to birds of the genus Troglodytes, which seldom undergo necropsy.
Nephroprotective effect of β-sitosterol on N-diethylnitrosamine initiated and ferric nitrilotriacetate promoted acute nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats
Authors: Sharmila Ramalingam , Sindhu Ganapathy , Arockianathan Pushpam Marie
Published: March 2016

Background:

The most abundant plant sterol β-sitosterol is widely used for treating heart diseases and chronic inflammatory conditions. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the nephroprotective effect of β-sitosterol against nephrotoxicants which were studied using renal function markers, antioxidant and lipid peroxidation status, and inflammatory markers.

Methods:

Male albino Wistar rats were randomly grouped into four: group 1 was vehicle control rats (0.1% carboxymethyl cellulose [CMC]); group 2 was rats treated with N-diethylnitrosamine (DEN) (200 mg/kg body weight [bw] i.p. on the 15th day) and ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe-NTA) (9 mg/kg bw i.p. on 30th and 32nd days); group 3 was rats that received β-sitosterol (20 mg/kg bw in 0.1% CMC, p.o. for 32 days) 2 weeks prior to the exposure to the nephrotoxicant; and group 4 was rats that received β-sitosterol alone. The experiment was terminated after the 24 h of last dosage of Fe-NTA, and all the animals were sacrificed. The blood, liver and kidney from each group were analyzed for biochemical, molecular and histological changes.

Results:

All the parameters showed significant changes in DEN and Fe-NTA treated animals, whereas β-sitosterol pretreated animals’ altered biochemical parameters were restored to near normal. Histopathological and immunoexpression studies on tissues also corroborate the biochemical endpoints.

Conclusions:

Administration of β-sitosterol to nephrotoxicity induced rats showed significant positive changes in biochemical parameters, histopathological and immunohistochemical observations, and up-regulation of Nrf2 gene expression. From this, it was clear that β-sitosterol showed renal protective function.
Urate crystals deposition in the feet of overweight juveniles and those with symptomatic hyperuricemia: a dual-energy CT study
Authors: Sun Nan , Zhong Shiling , Li Yunyan , Wu Ling , Di Yazhen
Published: March 2016

The present study evaluated the clinical value of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) for detecting urate crystals in juveniles with symptomatic hyperuricemia.

We recruited 24 juveniles (15 male and 9 female) who presented with symptomatic hyperuricemia. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.4 kg/m

Urate crystals deposition was observed in 21/24 (87.5%) juveniles with symptomatic hyperuricemia. Urate crystals were detected in or around the anatomic site included the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints (5/24, 20.8%); the calcaneus (5/24, 20.8%); any other toe joints (3/24, 12.5%); the astragalus (3/24, 12.5%); the ankle joints (3/24, 12.5%); the metatarsals (2/24, 8.3%); the cuboid (1/24, 4.2%); and other parts of the feet (2/24, 8.3%). Importantly, urate crystals deposition weas located in the soft tissue (tendon/tendon insertion sites/entheses) around the above-mentioned sites in a majority of these patients.

Urate crystals deposition can be detected by dual-energy CT in the feet of symptomatic hyperuricemia juveniles. DECT can be a valuable diagnostic tool for helping diagnose in juvenile gout.
Eastern fox squirrel (Sciurus niger, Linnaeus 1758) introduction to the Sonoran Desert
Authors: Brady Matthew J. , Koprowski John L. , Gwinn R. Nathan , Jo Yeong-Seok , Young Kevin
Published: March 2016

The eastern fox squirrel, native to the eastern and midwestern United States, was recently documented in the Sonoran Desert in the vicinity of Yuma, Arizona, constituting the first state record for this species. We surveyed the people of Yuma to determine when and how the squirrels arrived. The squirrels were first observed in the 1960s, but may have been resident for a longer period. Since the 1960s, squirrels have spread throughout the city limits and extended south ~15 km into Somerton, Arizona. How the squirrels arrived is not clear, but must be the result of an introduction, as no nearby populations exist. The persistence of eastern fox squirrels in this unique habitat is due to synanthropic relationships.
Redetermination of the crystal structure of 3-bromobenzoic acid, C7H5BrO2
Authors: Ndima Lubabalo , Betz Richard
Published: March 2016

C7H5BrO2, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 5.9992(4) Å, b = 4.7064(4) Å, c = 25.149(2) Å, b = 92.283(4)°, V = 709.51(10) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0363, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.0857, T = 200 K.
Crystal structure of 2-amino-7-methyl-5-oxo-4-phenyl-4H,5H-pyrano[4,3-b]pyran-3-carbonitrile, C16H12N2O3
Authors: Song Jing
Published: March 2016

C16H12N2O3, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 10.707(5) Å, b = 8.749(5) Å, c = 15.002(6) Å, β = 103.65(2)°, V = 1365.7(12) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0557, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1309, T = 296(2) K.
Crystal structure of 1-(4-methylthiazol-2-yl)-3-propylthiourea, C8H13N3S2
Authors: Jambi Suhair M.S. , Al-Obaid Abdulrahman M. , Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard , Bari Ahmed
Published: March 2016

C8H13N3S2, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 7.4803(3) Å, b = 8.4562(3) Å, c = 9.3531(3) Å, α = 67.688(1)°, β = 74.017(1)°, γ = 85.008(1)°, V = 526.07(3) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt
(F) = 0.0256, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.0736, T = 200 K.
Integrated Archaeogeophysical Approach for the Study of a Medieval Monastic Settlement in Basilicata
Authors: Leucci Giovanni , Masini Nicola , Rizzo Enzo , Capozzoli Luigi , De Martino Gregory , De Giorgi Lara , Marzo Cosimo , Roubis Dimitris , Sogliani Francesca
Published: March 2016

The paper deals with the results of an archaeo-geophysical approach adopted for the study and
the reconstruction of the architectural plan of the medieval monastery of San Pietro a Cellaria in Calvello
(Basilicata, Southern Italy). The monastery is a remarkable witness to Benedectine architecture of the 12-13th
century in Basilicata, built by monks of the Congregation of S. Maria di Pulsano, who were active mainly in
southern Italy. The historical data and the diachronic architectural study, based on the analysis of building
techniques, provide evidence for a long and intense history, during which the monastery underwent several
architectural changes, including the demolition of buildings and the superposition of other constructional
elements. The only preserved medieval remains are a church with a nave; the adjacent structures are more
recent. This preliminary data prompted a research project to shed new light on the as yet unknown history of
the medieval monastery. Specifically, a remote sensing approach around the monastery including aerial survey
by unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and geomagnetic survey in gradiometric
configuration (MAG), was adopted in order to verify the possible existence of buried masonry structures
and other possible features of archaeological interest, including channels and aqueducts. The GPR time
slices were constructed from closely spaced parallel profiles. The time slices, computed by averaging radar
reflections over vertical time windows several nanoseconds thick, are used to map subsoil features associated
with the structures, probably of anthropogenic origin. To facilitate the interpretation of the results, a threedimensional
image was constructed using closely spaced parallel profiles, which are linearly interpolated. The
MAG survey was carried in gradiometer configuration, in order to study magnetic properties of the shallow
subsoil. Ground-penetrating radar gives details about archaeological structures in a limited area where survey
was possible, while gradiometer survey confirms GPR results and improves archaeological knowledge in the
areas where GPR survey was impossible. This multi-sensor remote sensing program revealed a wide variety of
archaeological features of interest, which may be targeted accurately with excavations in the future.
“Shaping” and “Painting” during the Early Bronze Age: the Case-study of Pottery of Colle della Croce (Scicli, Ragusa)
Authors: Veca Carlo
Published: March 2016

Pottery technology, although largely neglected in studies of the Sicilian Early Bronze Age
(Castelluccio culture, 2200-1450 BC), represents a strategic field of research for focusing on main steps of
manufacturing of Castelluccian vessels. In this perspective, the evidence from the archaeological deposit
of Colle della Croce (Scicli, Ragusa) has allowed us to emphasise some new technical features that can be
observed in the production within other cultural districts. The most significant phase of the study was the
autoptic examination of materials and surfaces that led to the definition of this production as medium and
coarse ware, with the use of different kinds of technical solutions in relation to different uses and functions.
The manufacturing techniques, especially when surface treatment is clearly recognizable on fragmentary
specimens, can be conditioned by several factors, such as the shape type and the function of the vessel.
Features such as working plans and supporting systems were observed quite frequently, as well as polishing
techniques and joints slots for the handles that could be interpreted as ‘workshop standards’ rather than
simply local traditions.
Hydraulic fracturing for natural gas: impact on health and environment
Authors: Carpenter David O.
Published: March 2016

Shale deposits exist in many parts of the world and contain relatively large amounts of natural gas and oil. Recent technological developments in the process of horizontal hydraulic fracturing (hydrofracturing or fracking) have suddenly made it economically feasible to extract natural gas from shale. While natural gas is a much cleaner burning fuel than coal, there are a number of significant threats to human health from the extraction process as currently practiced. There are immediate threats to health resulting from air pollution from volatile organic compounds, which contain carcinogens such as benzene and ethyl-benzene, and which have adverse neurologic and respiratory effects. Hydrogen sulfide, a component of natural gas, is a potent neuro- and respiratory toxin. In addition, levels of formaldehyde are elevated around fracking sites due to truck traffic and conversion of methane to formaldehyde by sunlight. There are major concerns about water contamination because the chemicals used can get into both ground and surface water. Much of the produced water (up to 40% of what is injected) comes back out of the gas well with significant radioactivity because radium in subsurface rock is relatively water soluble. There are significant long-term threats beyond cancer, including exacerbation of climate change due to the release of methane into the atmosphere, and increased earthquake activity due to disruption of subsurface tectonic plates. While fracking for natural gas has significant economic benefits, and while natural gas is theoretically a better fossil fuel as compared to coal and oil, current fracking practices pose significant adverse health effects to workers and near-by residents. The health of the public should not be compromized simply for the economic benefits to the industry.
Cancer surveillance and research on environmental contributions to cancer
Authors: Chao Ann , Edwards Brenda K.
Published: March 2016

Cancer surveillance is a fundamental component of national or sub-national cancer control planning and research. Cancer incidence and mortality data allow countries to monitor change in cancer incidence, mortality, and survival over time, by geographic region, and by demographic characteristics. Such data provide important clues to form hypotheses for cancer etiologic research, including research to examine environmental contributions to cancer. Strengthening cancer surveillance systems is urgently needed to conduct high quality research in environmental pollution and cancer in many countries. The United States National Cancer Institute Center for Global Health organized the first symposium on Environmental Contributions to Cancer during the 16th International Conference of Pacific Basin Consortium (PBC) for Environment and Health. PBC provided an important forum for dialog to establish partnerships and collaborations among researchers of environmental pollution and cancer.
Pollution, health and development: the need for a new paradigm
Authors: Landrigan Philip J. , Fuller Richard
Published: March 2016

Background: Pollution is the largest cause of death in low- and middle-income countries. WHO estimates that 8.9 million persons die each year of diseases caused by pollution – 94% of them in poor countries. By comparison, HIV/AIDS causes 1.5 million deaths per year, and malaria and tuberculosis cause fewer than 1 million each. Diseases caused by pollution are very costly.

Prevention: Pollution can be prevented. In high-income countries, legal and technical control strategies have been developed and yielded great health and economic benefits. The removal of lead from gasoline increased the mean IQ of all American children and has generated an annual economic benefit of $213 billion.

Unmet need: Despite its enormous human and economic costs, pollution has been overlooked in the international development agenda. Pollution control currently receives <0.5% of development spending.

Solution: We have formed The Lancet-GAHP-Mount Sinai Commission on Pollution, Health and Development. This Commission will develop robust analyses of the impacts of pollution on health, economics, and development. It will inform heads of state and global funders about the enormous scale pollution’s effects. The ultimate goal is to raise the priority of pollution and increase the resources allocated to control of this urgent public health problem.
Novel industrial wastewater treatment integrated with recovery of water and salt under a zero liquid discharge concept
Authors: Rajamani Sengodagounder
Published: March 2016

Conventional industrial effluent treatment systems are designed to reduce biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD) but not total dissolved solids (TDS), mainly contributed by chlorides. In addition to the removal of TDS, it is necessary to recover water for reuse to meet the challenges of shortage of quality water. To recover water, the wastewater needs to be further treated by adopting treatment systems including microfilters, low pressure membrane units such as ultrafiltration (UF), membrane bioreactors (MBR), etc., for the application of reverse osmosis (RO) systems. By adopting the RO system, 75%–80% of quality water with <500 mg/L of TDS is recovered from treated effluent. The management of 20%–25% of the saline water rejected from the RO system with high TDS concentration is being addressed by methods such as forced evaporation systems. The recovery of water from domestic and industrial waste for reuse has become a reality. The membrane system has been used for different applications. It has become mandatory to achieve zero liquid discharge (ZLD) in many states in India and other countries such as Spain, China, etc., and resulted in development of new treatment technologies to suit the local conditions.
Environmental exposures due to natural disasters
Authors: Knap Anthony H. , Rusyn Ivan
Published: March 2016

The environmental mobilization of contaminants by “natural disasters” is a subject of much interest, however, little has been done to address these concerns, especially in the developing world. Frequencies and predictability of events, both globally and regionally as well as the intensity, vary widely. It is clear that there are greater probabilities for mobilization of modern contaminants in sediments. Over the past 100 years of industrialization many chemicals are buried in riverine, estuarine and coastal sediments. There are a few studies, which have investigated this potential risk especially to human health. Studies that focus on extreme events need to determine the pre-existing baseline, determine the medium to long term fate and transport of contaminants and investigate aquatic and terrestrial pathways. Comprehensive studies are required to investigate the disease pathways and susceptibility for human health concerns.
Differential methylation tests of regulatory regions
Authors: Ryu Duchwan , Xu Hongyan , George Varghese , Su Shaoyong , Wang Xiaoling , Shi Huidong , Podolsky Robert H.
Published: March 2016

Differential methylation of regulatory elements is critical in epigenetic researches and can be statistically tested. We developed a new statistical test, the generalized integrated functional test (GIFT), that tests for regional differences in methylation based on the methylation percent at each CpG site within a genomic region. The GIFT uses estimated subject-specific profiles with smoothing methods, specifically wavelet smoothing, and calculates an ANOVA-like test to compare the average profile of groups. In this way, possibly correlated CpG sites within the regulatory region are compared all together. Simulations and analyses of data obtained from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia indicate that GIFT has good statistical properties and is able to identify promising genomic regions. Further, GIFT is likely to work with multiple different types of experiments since different smoothing methods can be used to estimate the profiles of data without noise. Matlab code for GIFT and sample data are available at http://www.augusta.edu/mcg/biostatepi/people/software/gift.html.
The Assessment Of Energy And Protein Needs Coverage In Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Pandel Mikuš Ruža , Vičič Vid , Dahmane Raja
Published: March 2016

Aim

Aiming at assessing sufficiency of energy/protein intake in hospitalized patients, the objective was to monitor and analyze actual food intake of patients hospitalized in three clinical wards of one of major Slovenian hospitals.

Methods

53 patients were included in the study. Food intake was assessed 3 times daily from leftovers. Nutritional status was assessed with Nutritional Risk Screening tool 2002. The observed outcomes were percentage of energy coverage (PEC) and percentage of protein coverage (PPC). In PEC energy nutritional value of the menu (ENVM), and in PPC protein nutritional value of the menu (PNVM) were considered as the main modifiable risk factors. Data were analyzed univariately and multivariately by using logistic regression method.

Results

The patients did not cover energy needs (67.4±24.5%). Multivariate model for PEC was highly significant (R2=0.347; pmodel<0.001) with ENVM showing high strength of association (b=0.040; p=0.004). Patients also did not cover protein needs (84.0±40.2%). Multivariate model for PEC was highly significant (R2=0.477; pmodel<0.001) and PNVM showing high strength of association (b=0.937; p=0.002).

Conclusion

For successful prevention and early detection of malnutrition, food intake in hospitals is vital and should be constantly monitored. A simple method for monitoring is proposed. The menus provided to patients should also be adequate in terms of energy and protein content.
Steady-state priors and Bayesian variable selection in VAR forecasting
Authors: Louzis Dimitrios P.
Published: March 2016

This study proposes methods for estimating Bayesian vector autoregressions (VARs) with a (semi-) automatic variable selection and an informative prior on the unconditional mean or steady-state of the system. We show that extant Gibbs sampling methods for Bayesian variable selection can be efficiently extended to incorporate prior beliefs on the steady-state of the economy. Empirical analysis, based on three major US macroeconomic time series, indicates that the out-of-sample forecasting accuracy of a VAR model is considerably improved when it combines both variable selection and steady-state prior information.
Neuropeptidergic Signaling and Active Feeding State Inhibit Nociception inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Ezcurra Marina , Walker Denise S. , Beets Isabel , Swoboda Peter , Schafer William R.
Published: March 2016

Food availability and nutritional status are important cues affecting behavioral states. Here we report that, inCaenorhabditis elegans, a cascade of dopamine and neuropeptide signaling acts to inhibit nociception in food-poor environments. In the absence of food, animals show decreased sensitivity and increased adaptation to soluble repellents sensed by the polymodal ASH nociceptors. The effects of food on adaptation are affected by dopamine and neuropeptide signaling; dopamine acts via the DOP-1 receptor to decrease adaptation on food, whereas the neuropeptide receptors NPR-1 and NPR-2 act to increase adaptation off food. NPR-1 and NPR-2 function cell autonomously in the ASH neurons to increase adaptation off food, whereas the DOP-1 receptor controls neuropeptide release from interneurons that modulate ASH activity indirectly. These results indicate that feeding state modulates nociception through the interaction of monoamine and neuropeptide signaling pathways.
Defective Phagocytic Corpse Processing Results in Neurodegeneration and Can Be Rescued by TORC1 Activation
Authors: Etchegaray Jon Iker , Elguero Emma J. , Tran Jennifer A. , Sinatra Vincent , Feany Mel B. , McCall Kimberly
Published: March 2016

The removal of apoptotic cell corpses is important for maintaining homeostasis. Previously, defects in apoptotic cell clearance have been linked to neurodegeneration. However, the mechanisms underlying this are still poorly understood. In this study, we report that the absence of the phagocytic receptor Draper in glia leads to a pronounced accumulation of apoptotic neurons in the brain ofDrosophila melanogaster. These dead cells persist in the brain throughout the lifespan of the organism and are associated with age-dependent neurodegeneration. Our data indicate that corpses persist because of defective phagosome maturation, rather than recognition defects. TORC1 activation, or inhibition of Atg1, in glia is sufficient to rescue corpse accumulation as well as neurodegeneration. These results suggest that phagocytosis of apoptotic neurons by glia during development is essential for brain homeostasis in adult flies. Furthermore, it suggests that TORC1 regulates Draper-mediated phagosome maturation.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTPreviously, defects in dead cell clearance were linked to neurodegeneration, but the exact mechanisms are not well understood. In this study, we report that the absence of an engulfment receptor leads to a pronounced accumulation of dead neurons in the brain of the fruit flyDrosophila melanogaster. These dead cells persist in the brain throughout the lifespan of the organism and are associated with age-dependent neurodegeneration. Our data indicate that corpses persist because of defective degradation of cells rather than recognition of dead cells.
Anxiety Evokes Hypofrontality and Disrupts Rule-Relevant Encoding by Dorsomedial Prefrontal Cortex Neurons
Authors: Park Junchol , Wood Jesse , Bondi Corina , Del Arco Alberto , Moghaddam Bita
Published: March 2016

Anxiety is a debilitating symptom of most psychiatric disorders, including major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. A detrimental aspect of anxiety is disruption of prefrontal cortex (PFC)-mediated executive functions, such as flexible decision making. Here we sought to understand how anxiety modulates PFC neuronal encoding of flexible shifting between behavioral strategies. We used a clinically substantiated anxiogenic treatment to induce sustained anxiety in rats and recorded from dorsomedial PFC (dmPFC) and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) neurons while they were freely moving in a home cage and while they performed a PFC-dependent task that required flexible switches between rules in two distinct perceptual dimensions. Anxiety elicited a sustained background “hypofrontality” in dmPFC and OFC by reducing the firing rate of spontaneously active neuronal subpopulations. During task performance, the impact of anxiety was subtle, but, consistent with human data, behavior was selectively impaired when previously correct conditions were presented as conflicting choices. This impairment was associated with reduced recruitment of dmPFC neurons that selectively represented task rules at the time of action. OFC rule representation was not affected by anxiety. These data indicate that a neural substrate of the decision-making deficits in anxiety is diminished dmPFC neuronal encoding of task rules during conflict-related actions. Given the translational relevance of the model used here, the data provide a neuronal encoding mechanism for how anxiety biases decision making when the choice involves overcoming a conflict. They also demonstrate that PFC encoding of actions, as opposed to cues or outcome, is especially vulnerable to anxiety.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTA debilitating aspect of anxiety is its impact on decision making and flexible control of behavior. These cognitive constructs depend on proper functioning of the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Understanding how anxiety affects PFC encoding of cognitive events is of great clinical and evolutionary significance. Using a clinically valid experimental model, we find that, under anxiety, decision making may be skewed by salient and conflicting environmental stimuli at the expense of flexible top-down guided choices. We also find that anxiety suppresses spontaneous activity of PFC neurons, and weakens encoding of task rules by dorsomedial PFC neurons. These data provide a neuronal encoding scheme for how anxiety disengages PFC during decision making.
The Development of Art Learning Model at School (A Review of Music Education Learning in Indonesia)
Authors: Mack Dieter
Published: March 2016

At the present time, art education is often ignored. Focus on teaching and learning at school seems to accentuate other subjects, such as: science, economics, and technology. This trend is becoming more concerning for the arts is a field of study, which draws attention to the development of perceptual sensitivity, creativity, as well as social responsibility. However, if art education, in this case is music education, is taught theoretically based on other cultural materials, then the consequences will be worse for students. This study is aimed to draw outlines of music education which hopefully can answer the three aspects of music which are previously described. The outlines are arranged based on recent discoveries in audio perceptions. 
Forms, Development and The Application of Music Media in The Kindergartens: A Comparative Study of Two Kindergartens
Authors: Sumaryanto F. Totok , Utomo Udi
Published: March 2016

This study was aimed at investigating the form of music media employed in the teaching and learning process (TLP) in the kindergartens, and the teachers’ effort to develop and apply music media in the TLP. The researchers used a qualitative approach. The research was conducted in TK Hj. Isriati Baiturahman and TK Negeri Pembina Semarang. The subjects of the study were principals, teachers, staffs and students. In collecting the data, the researchers used three different techniques: interview, observation and documentation. Then, the researchers used data reduction, categorization and data interpretation to analyse the data. The result shows that the teachers in both schools have utilized varied music media in the TLP. In TK Hj. Isriati, the teachers used music media in the form of music composition and electronic equipment; and the new music instruments were used by the teachers in extracurricular activities. Meanwhile, the teachers in TK Negeri Pembina utilized music media including music composition, music instruments and electronic equipment. The development of music media by the teachers was done by modifying lyrics, composing simple songs, utilizing rhitmical music instruments and employing electronic equipment in the TLP.
Continuity of Tradition Dance: Acedemicians’ Intervention on Artists and Performing Arts Groups
Authors: Indrayuda Indrayuda
Published: March 2016

This article intends to uncover a concept of developing tradition-art groups in West Sumatra, which is considered that they have been left behind by modern-art groups in terms of packing aspect, presentation, and technical skills. Hence, this article reveals intervention of the academician in developing and providing support in the forms of improving skills and knowledge of the artists and art groups. The support includes improving skills and knowledge of expressing arts through giving packing techniques and arranging art performance, orientated toward educational and social extension actions. The knowledge may consist of techniques for developing movements, dance music, costumes, and make-up affecting skills of arranging and packing performance arts that can be divested in art industries. The method used in this investigation was games that aimed to cope with boredom and improve new awareness of concepts of how to pack performance arts. In addition, the case study was employed to solve problems faced by partners in the field. Moreover, practices about how to pack the arts were critical to be done through brainstorming, discussing, and lecturing.
Comment and Comics Artwork by Mohd Yaman Ahmad Mus in Anak Sabah Newspaper on 1957
Authors: Rahim Mohd Sawari , Ibrahim Ismail , Zakaria Suraya Hani
Published: March 2016

The aims for producing comics in newspaper is to convey a message instead of just an entertainment for the newspaper readers. It also can be a documentation materials for historical records and civilization history through the situation at that time. These visual images are used by Mohd Yaman Ahmad Mus to display the true story about the behavior, attitudes and moral values that apply in everyday life through his creativity and self-expression. This aims to teach and create awareness among public besides of building a harmony and well-being of the community. The display image was analyzed using a theoretical approach of iconography by Erwin Panofsky (1955). This theory was classified into three levels, which is pre-iconographic, iconography and iconological (iconology interpretation) to explain and demystify the nature and meaning of painting in a holistic manner. The study showed that the content of messages and lessons in painting shows road safety issues which are still happen since the pre-independence era in Sabah until now.
Costume Characteristics of Children Creation Dance in Kindergarten at Buleleng Bali
Authors: Sutrisno Langen Bronto , Suartini Luh , Budiarta I Gusti Made
Published: March 2016

Study related to characteristics of costumes worn in Children Creation Dance in kindergarten at Buleleng, Bali is aiming at (1) understanding the characteristics of children creation dance costume in kindergarten at Buleleng, Bali, (2) understanding the aesthetic characteristic of costume of children creation dance in kindergarten at Buleleng, Bali. The research employed qualitative method while the discussion part was presented in descriptive. Data was collected through observation, interview, literature, as well as documentation study. In a general view, characteristic of the costume was still in close proximity to the tradition but some others characteristics have quiet different to the tradition. Aesthetic aspect in dance costume that has adjacency to the tradition is shown in patterned costume, especially the use of kamen prada. The use of colour tends to be bright and cold which may show the atmosphere of happiness and assurance. On the other hand, the characteristics of costume is not traditional tends to emphasize dots and stripes. The impression of dots is shown in the use of sequin while the stripe impession is shown in fabric colour boundaries. In addition, the colours chosen for this type of costume are considerably similar to the colour chosen in traditional costume of creation dance which are bright and cold and give the impression of happiness and assurance.
TINDAKAN NEGARA TERKAIT PERISTIWA G30S: STUDI MAKNA GADAMERIAN PADA PESELAMAT
Authors: Atmaja Hamdan Tri
Published: March 2016

This study aims to gain knowledge of a deep understanding of the state action related to the G30S event. The research method used was a qualitative research approach initiated by Gadamer's hermeneutics. The results showed that state action against survivors were to arrest, investigate, and imprison them to the island of Buru (for men survivors) and Plantungan (for women survivors). The G30S event, by survivors, was interpreted as a story of the assassination of the generals by Indonesian Communist Party (PKI), as well as the form of a political conspiracy for Sukarnoâ€™s power within ideological background. Investigation and arrest were interpreted by them as an act of unwarranted, political scapegoat, and a form of abuse against them. While prison life, for survivors, was as a form of forced labor, punishment to stigmatize and isolate women

Keywords: State Action, the G30S event, Meaning, and Survivor.

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Tulisan ini mendeskripsikan secara mendalam tindakan negara terkait peristiwa G30S. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan hermeneutika yang digagas Gadamer. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tindakan negara terhadap peselamat adalah melakukan penangkapan, pemeriksaan, dan penahanan serta memenjarakan mereka ke pulau Buru (untuk peselamat laki-laki) dan Plantungan (untuk peselamat perempuan). Peristiwa G30S oleh peselamat dimaknai sebagai kisah pembunuhan para jendral oleh PKI, bentuk konspirasi politik memperebutkan kekuasaan Soekarno dengan latar belakang ideologi. Pemeriksaan dan penangkapan dimaknai peselamat sebagai tindakan tidak beralasan, politik kambing hitam, dan sebagai bentuk kesewenang-wenangan terhadap peselamat. Kehidupan penjara dimaknai peselamat sebagai bentuk kerja paksa, hukuman dengan menstigmatisasi dan mengisolasi kaum perempuan.

Kata kunci: Tindakan Negara, Peristiwa G30S, Makna, danÂ  Peselamat.

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Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in repeated IVF failure, a randomized trial
Authors: Aleyasin Ashraf , Abediasl Zhila , Nazari Atefeh , Sheikh Mahdi
Published: March 2016

Recent studies have revealed key roles for granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) in embryo implantation process and maintenance of pregnancy, and some studies showed promising results by using local intrauterine infusion of GCSF in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). This multicenter, randomized, controlled trial included 112 infertile women with repeated IVF failure to evaluate the efficacy of systemic single-dose subcutaneous GCSF administration on IVF success in these women. In this study, the Long Protocol of ovarian stimulation was used for all participants. Sealed, numbered envelopes assigned 56 patients to receive subcutaneous 300 µg GCSF before implantation and 56 in the control group. The implantation (number of gestational sacs on the total number of transferred embryos), chemical pregnancy (positive serum β-HCG), and clinical pregnancy (gestational sac and fetal heart) rates were compared between the two groups. This trial is registered at www.irct.ir (IRCT201503119568N11). The successful implantation (18% vs 7.2%, P=0.007), chemical pregnancy (44.6% vs 19.6%, P=0.005), and clinical pregnancy (37.5% vs 14.3%, P=0.005) rates were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group. After adjustment for participants’ age, endometrial thickness, good-quality oocyte counts, number of transferred embryos, and anti-Mullerian hormone levels, GCSF treatment remained significantly associated with successful implantation (OR=2.63, 95% CI=1.09–6.96), having chemical pregnancy (OR= 2.74, 95% CI=1.11–7.38) and clinical pregnancy (OR=2.94, 95% CI=1.23–8.33). In conclusion, administration of single-dose systemic subcutaneous GCSF before implantation significantly increases the IVF success, implantation, and pregnancy rates in infertile women with repeated IVF failure.