bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance evaluation of hybrid OMBR-MD using organic and inorganic draw solutions
Authors: Khan Sher Jamal , Siddique Muhammad Saboor , Shahzad Hafiz Muhammad Aamir
Published: September 2018

The performance of two inorganic divalent salts (CaCl2, and MgCl2) and two organic salts (CH3COONa and Mg(CH3COO)2) was compared with commonly used NaCl in an osmotic membrane bioreactor (OMBR) integrated with a membrane distillation (MD) system. The system was investigated in terms of salinity buildup, flux stability, draw solution (DS) recovery and contaminants removal efficiency. Results indicated that organic DSs not only lessen the salt accumulation within the bioreactor but also increase the pollutant removal efficiency by improving biological treatment. Of all the draw solutions, NaCl and CaCl2 produced rapid declines in water flux because of the high salt accumulation in the bio-tank as compared to other salts. The DCMD system successfully recovered all organic and inorganic draw solute concentrations as per OMBR requirements. Membrane flushing frequency for the MD system followed the order Mg(CH3COO)2 > CH3COONa > CaCl2 > MgCl2 > NaCl. More than 90% removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), NH4+-N, and PO43−-P was achieved in the permeate for each salt because of the dual barriers of high-retention membranes i.e., forward osmosis and MD.
Neural network for fractal dimension evolution
Authors: Oliveira Alessandra da Silva , Lopes Verônica dos Santos , Filho Ubirajara Coutinho , Moruzzi Rodrigo Braga , de Oliveira André Luiz
Published: September 2018

The coagulation/flocculation process is an essential step in drinking water treatment. The process of formation, growth, breakage and rearrangement of the formed aggregates is key to enhancing the understanding of the flocculation process. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are a powerful technique, which can be used to model complex problems in several areas, such as water treatment. This work evaluated the evolution of the fractal dimension of aggregates obtained through ANN modeling in the coagulation/flocculation process conducted in high apparent color water (100 ± 5 PtCo), using alum as coagulant in dosages varying from 1 to 12 mg Al3+ L−1, and shear rates from 20 to 60 s−1 for flocculation times from 1 to 60 minutes. Based on raw data, the ANN model resulted in optimized condition of 9.5 mg Al3+ L−1 and pH 6.1, for color removal of 90.5%. For fractal dimension evolution, the ANN was able to represent from 95% to 99% of the results.
Improving aeration systems in saline water: measurement of local bubble size and volumetric mass transfer coefficient of conventional membrane diffusers
Authors: Behnisch J. , Ganzauge A. , Sander S. , Herrling M. P. , Wagner M.
Published: September 2018

In this study, for the first time, the influence of the design of conventional membrane diffusers on the volumetric mass transfer coefficient (kLa) and bubble size in tap water (TW) and saline water (SW) was investigated (up to 15 g/L NaCl). By using a new analytical approach, kLa and the bubble size along the ascent of the bubble swarm were measured simultaneously and in real time. The results show that in TW, after collision bubbles merge into larger bubbles by coalescence. In SW, coalescence is inhibited by salt. Due to the smaller bubble size, kLa increases to more than double compared to TW. The results show that in SW, membrane diffusers with dense slit patterns and smaller slit lengths are to be recommended in order to enable improved utilization of oxygen in saline water.
Removal of organic contaminant by municipal sewage sludge-derived hydrochar: kinetics, thermodynamics and mechanisms
Authors: Wei Jia , Liu Yitao , Li Jun , Yu Hui , Peng Yongzhen
Published: September 2018

In this work, a microporous municipal sewage sludge-derived hydrochar (MSSH) with relatively high surface area and abundant surface organic functional groups was produced through hydrothermal carbonization. Based on the adsorption results over a wide range of conditions, the prepared MSSH was suggested as a promising adsorbent for CV because of its high and efficient adsorption capability. The experimental data were fitted to several kinetic models. Based on calculated respective parameters such as rate constants, equilibrium adsorption capacities and correlation coefficients, the pseudo second-order model proved the best in describing the adsorption behavior of MSSH. Through kinetics, thermodynamic modeling studies and material characterization, a plausible adsorption process was discussed under the conditions used in this study. It can be confirmed that the adsorption of CV onto MSSH is via both physical interactions (electrostatic interaction and Van der Waals' force) and chemical interactions (formation of H-bonding).
A feasibility study of disinfection by-product precursor removal from surface water by a membrane bioreactor acclimatized with wastewater organic matter
Authors: Long Stephen M. , Tang Hao L.
Published: September 2018

A membrane bioreactor (MBR) acclimatized with wastewater organic matter was employed for surface water treatment, and the feasibility of the MBR for the removal of disinfection by-product (DBP) precursors was studied. With a low pressure microfiltration hollow-fiber membrane module, a hydraulic retention time of 1.5 hours and a solids retention time of 180 days, the MBR was able to achieve 35% removal of trichloroacetic acid precursors and 21% removal of dichloroacetic acid precursors. The removal of trichloromethane (TCM) and brominated DBP precursors was unsatisfactory. The TCM yield and bromine substitution factors for trihalomethanes and dihaloacetic acids increased. The phenomena could be attributed to an extended treatment time for hydrophobic dissolved organic matter (DOM), production of soluble microbial products from biomass activities, and an increased Br/DOM ratio by the MBR. Since the MBR treatment would lead to the production of some new DBP precursors and a change of DOM composition, the toxic potency of the DBPs formed needs to be taken into consideration if this process is employed for surface water treatment.
In Silico Prediction of P-glycoprotein Binding: Insights from Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Vilar Santiago , Sobarzo-Sánchez Eduardo , Uriarte Eugenio
Published: September 2018

The P-glycoprotein is an efflux transporter that expels substances out of the cells and has an important impact on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of drugs. The study of the interactions between ligands and the P-glycoprotein has implications in the design of Central Nervous System drugs and their transport across the blood-brain barrier. Moreover, since the P-glycoprotein is overexpressed in some types of cancers, the protein is responsible for expelling the drug therapies from the cells, and hence, for drug resistance. In this review, we describe different P-glycoprotein binding sites reported for substrates, inhibitors and modulators, and focus on molecular docking studies that provide useful information about drugs and P-glycoprotein interactions. Docking in crystallized structures and homology models showed potential in the detection of the binding site and key residues responsible for ligand recognition. Moreover, virtual screening through molecular docking discriminates P-glycoprotein ligands from decoys. We also discuss challenges and limitations of molecular docking simulations applied to this particular protein. Computational structure-based approaches are very helpful in the study of novel ligands that interact with the P-glycoprotein and provide insights to understand the P-glycoprotein molecular mechanism of action.
A Review of Theranostics Applications and Toxicities of Carbon Nanomaterials
Authors: Gupta Nitin , Rai Divya Bharti , Jangid Ashok Kumar , Kulhari Hitesh
Published: September 2018

Background:

In the last few years, the use of modified Carbon Nanomaterials (CNMs) for theranostics
(therapeutic and diagnosis) applications is a new and rapidly growing area in pharmacy and medical fields. Owing to
this, their specific physicochemical behaviors like high stability, drug loading, surface area to volume ratio, with low
toxicity and immunogenicity are mainly responsible to be considered those as smart nanomaterials.

Objective:

This review describes the different dimensions of carbon-based nanocarriers including 0-D fullerene, 1-D
Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs), and 2-D graphene and Graphene Oxide (GO) and their surface modification with different
biocompatible and biodegradable molecules via covalent or non-covalent functionalization. The major focus of
this article is on the different theranostics applications of CNMs like targeted drugs and genes delivery, photodynamic
therapy, photothermal therapy, bioimaging, and biosensing. The therapeutic efficacy of drugs could be enhanced
by delivering them directly on a specific site using different targeted ligands such as vitamins, peptide, carbohydrates,
proteins, etc. A section of the article also discusses the toxicity of the CNMs to the living systems.

Conclusion:

In brief, this review article discusses the numerous theranostics applications and toxicities of CNMs.
Assessing Everyday Activities Across the Dementia Spectrum with the Amsterdam IADL Questionnaire
Authors: Facal David , Carabias Miguel Angel Ruiz , Pereiro Arturo X. , Lojo-Seoane Cristina , Campos-Magdaleno María , Jutten Roos J. , Sikkes Sietske A.M. , Juncos-Rabadán Onésimo
Published: September 2018

Background:

Instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) are complex activities which involve
multiple cognitive processes, and which are expected to be susceptible to the early effects of cognitive
impairment. Informant-based questionnaires are the most common tools used to assess IADL performance
in dementia, but must be adjusted for use in early stages of impairment.

Objective:

To investigate the differences in IADL on the continuum of cognitive decline (i.e. no cognitive
decline - subjective cognitive decline - mild cognitive impairment- mild dementia - moderate dementia)
using the Spanish version of the Amsterdam IADL Questionnaire (A-IADL-Q).

Methods:

A total of 500 volunteer participants were included: 88 participants with no signs of cognitive
decline, 109 participants with subjective cognitive complaints, 114 participants with mild cognitive impairment
(MCI), 81 participants with mild dementia and 108 participants with moderate dementia. IADL
was assessed with the A-IADL-Q, a computerized and adaptive questionnaire that calculates scores according
to the specific pattern of responses of each participant. The data were examined by ANOVAs
and regression analysis. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the capacity of the
A-IADL-Q to distinguish between diagnostic groups.

Results:

Participants with no cognitive decline and those with subjective cognitive decline obtained
higher A-IADL-Q scores than MCI participants, and participants with MCI obtained higher scores than
patients with dementia. The A-IADL-Q showed excellent discrimination between non-cognitive impairment
and dementia, and significant but low discrimination between non-cognitive impairment and MCI.

Conclusion:

A-IADL-Q can discriminate IADL functioning between groups across the dementia spectrum.
Proteomic Analysis of a Bioactive Aloe vera Extract
Authors: Cabello-Ruiz Ethel Daniela , Torres-de la Cruz Víctor Manuel , Rivas-Morales Catalina , Molina-Salinas Gloria María , Núñez-González María Adriana , Verde-Star María Julia , Leos-Rivas Catalina
Published: September 2018

Background:

Aloe vera, a plant belonging to the family Xanthorrhoeaceae, has received
special interest in recent years, not only for the commercial importance of its derivatives, but also because
of the identification of new molecules from this plant. The latter may provide a scientific support
for ethnobotany, which has been beneficial to mankind for centuries.

Objective:

Recently, the pharmacological activity of proteins derived from natural sources, including
plants, is being explored. We report on the extraction and identification of proteins from A. vera with
antimicrobial activity.

Results:

The protein extract (yield, 0.15%) contained 15 peptides or proteins, whose sequences were
associated with membrane proteins, enzymes, and proteins involved in stress tolerance and defense
against pathogens. The latter is consistent with the previously reported antimicrobial activity of an
A. vera protein extract.
Combining Support Vector Machine with Dual g-gap Dipeptides to Discriminate between Acidic and Alkaline Enzymes
Authors: Wang Xianfang , Li Hongfei , Gao Peng , Liu Yifeng , Zeng Wenjing
Published: September 2018

The catalytic activity of the enzyme is different from that of the inorganic catalyst. In a high-temperature, over-acid or over-alkaline environment, the structure of the enzyme is destroyed and then loses its activity. Although the biochemistry experiments can measure the optimal PH environment of the enzyme, these methods are inefficient and costly. In order to solve these problems, computational model could be established to determine the optimal acidic or alkaline environment of the enzyme. Firstly, in this paper, we introduced a new feature called dual g-gap dipeptide composition to formulate enzyme samples. Subsequently, the best feature was selected by using the F value calculated from analysis of variance. Finally, support vector machine was utilized to build prediction model for distinguishing acidic from alkaline enzyme. The overall accuracy of 95.9% was achieved with Jackknife cross-validation, which indicates that our method is professional and efficient in terms of acid and alkaline enzyme predictions. The feature proposed in this paper could also be applied in other fields of bioinformatics.
3,4-Dihydroisocoumarins, Interesting Natural Products: Isolation, Organic Syntheses and Biological Activities
Authors: Ortiz Aurelio , Castro Miriam , Sansinenea Estibaliz
Published: September 2018

Background:

3,4-dihydroisocoumarins are an important small group belonging to the class of naturally occurring lactones isolated from different bacterial strains, molds, lichens, and plants. The structures of these natural compounds show various types of substitution in their basic skeleton and this variability influences deeply their biological activities. These lactones are structural subunits of several natural products and serve as useful intermediates in the synthesis of different heterocyclic molecules, which exhibit a wide range of biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antiplasmodial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiangiogenic and antitumoral activities, among others. Their syntheses have attracted attention of many researchers reporting many synthetic strategies to achieve 3,4-dihydroisocoumarins and other related structures.  Objective: In this context, the isolation of these natural compounds from different sources, their syntheses and biological activities are reviewed, adding the most recent advances and related developments.

Conclusion:

This review aims to encourage further work on the isolation and synthesis of this class of natural products. It would be beneficial for synthetic as well as the medicinal chemists to design selective, optimized dihydroisocoumarin derivatives as potential drug candidates, since dihydroisocoumarin scaffolds have significant utility in the development of therapeutically relevant and biologically active compounds.
The Impacts of Some Sedative Drugs on α -Glycosidase, Acetylcholinesterase and Butyrylcholinesterase Enzymes-potential Drugs for Some Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Kaya Ruya , Taslimi Parham , Naldan Muhammet Emin , Gulçin İlhami
Published: September 2018

Background:

The present paper focuses on the in vitro inhibition of some sedative drugs
such as Midazolam, Propofol, Hipnodex, Ketamine, and Pental sodium on acetylcholinesterase
(AChE), Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and α-glycosidase (α-Gly) enzymes.

Methods:

These drugs were tested in diverse concentrations, which showed positive effects in vitro
AChE, BChE, and α-Gly activities. Ki values were 20.14, 94.93, 636.78, 416.42, and 953.75 µM for
AChE, 17.52, 32.03, 88.02, 93.48, and 91.84 µM for BChE, and 10.87, 156.68, 48.21, 37.88,
151.01 µM for α-glycosidase, respectively.

Results:

An enhancing number of experiential observations show potentially harmful effects of
sedative drugs on the extension of brain.

Conclusion:

Midazolam exhibited effective inhibitory activity compared with the other drugs for
these enzymes.
Dietary Modifications in Fissure-in-ano: A Qualitative Study Based on Persian Medicine
Authors: Tavakoli-Dastjerdi Sedigheh , Tavakkoli-Kakhki Mandana , Derakhshan Ali R. , Teimouri Azam , Motavasselian Malihe
Published: September 2018

Background:

Anal fissure (AF) is a common disease associated with severe pain and reduced
quality of life. Factors related to lifestyle, including diet and bowel habits, play a pivotal role
in its pathogenesis. Most of the chronic fissures are not responsive to drugs and more likely to recur.
Given the significance of diet in Persian medicine (PM), investigation on physiopathology and appropriate
foods can be useful for decreases in AF symptoms and consequences.

Objective:

This study was intended to evaluate the role of diet in the formation and progression of
AF from the perspective of PM.

Methods:

In this study, the most important resources of PM dating back to thousands of years were
reviewed. All these textbooks contained a section on AF, its causes, and treatment. Further analysis
was performed on these resources in comparison with databank and resources of modern medicine to
develop a food-based strategy for AF management.

Results:

From the view of PM, the warmth and dryness of anus temperament accounted for AF. Both
Persian and modern medicine identified constipation as another cause for AF. Therefore, avoidance
from some foods and commercial baked goods was recommended. Both Persian and modern medicine
forbad the following foods: potato, cabbage, cauliflower, pasta, beef, fish, and so forth. High fiber
and oligo-antigen diets with some limitations have garnered more attention.

Conclusion:

An integrative approach is recommended employing both Persian and modern medicine
for AF. There have been some evidence in this regard, however standardized clinical trials are required
for future research.
2,4-Dichloro-5-[(N-aryl/alkyl)sulfamoyl]benzoic Acid Derivatives: In Vitro Antidiabetic Activity, Molecular Modeling and In silico ADMET Screening
Authors: Thakral Samridhi , Singh Vikramjeet
Published: September 2018

Background:

Postprandial hyperglycemia can be reduced by inhibiting major carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes, such as α-glucosidase and α-amylase which is an effective approach in both preventing and treating diabetes.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to synthesize a series of 2,4-dichloro-5-[(N-aryl/alkyl)sulfamoyl] benzoic acid derivatives and evaluate α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activity along with molecular docking and in silico ADMET property analysis.

Method:

Chlorosulfonation of 2,4-dichloro benzoic acid followed by reaction with corresponding anilines/amines yielded 2,4-dichloro-5-[(N-aryl/alkyl)sulfamoyl]benzoic acid derivatives. For evaluating their antidiabetic potential α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory assays were carried out. In silico molecular docking studies of these compounds were performed with respect to these enzymes and a computational study was also carried out to predict the drug-likeness and ADMET properties of the title compounds.

Results:

Compound 3c (2,4-dichloro-5-[(2-nitrophenyl)sulfamoyl]benzoic acid) was found to be highly active having 3 fold inhibitory potential against α-amylase and 5 times inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase in comparison to standard drug acarbose.

Conclusion:

Most of the synthesized compounds were highly potent or equipotent to standard drug acarbose for inhibitory potential against α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzyme and hence this may indicate their antidiabetic activity. The docking study revealed that these compounds interact with active site of enzyme through hydrogen bonding and different pi interactions.
A Review of Clinical Data Management Systems Used in Clinical Trials
Authors: Nourani Aynaz , Ayatollahi Haleh , Dodaran Masoud Solaymani
Published: September 2018

Background:

A clinical data management system is a software supporting the data management process in clinical trials. In this system, the effective support of clinical data management dimensions leads to the increased accuracy of results and prevention of diversion in clinical trials. The aim of this review article was to investigate the dimensions of data management in clinical data management systems.

Methods:

This study was conducted in 2017. The used databases included Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, ProQuest, Ovid Medline and PubMed. The search was conducted over a period of 10 years from 2007 to 2017. The initial number of studies was 101 reaching 19 in the final stage. The final studies were described and compared in terms of the year, country and dimensions of the clinical data management process in clinical trials.

Results:

The research findings indicated that none of the systems completely supported the data management dimensions in clinical trials. Although these systems were developed for supporting the clinical data management process, they were similar to electronic data capture systems in many cases. The most significant dimensions of data management in such systems were data collection or entry, report, validation, and security maintenance.

Conclusion:

Seemingly, not sufficient attention has been paid to automate all dimensions of the clinical data management process in clinical trials. However, these systems could take positive steps towards changing the manual processes of clinical data management to electronic processes.
Ductal Cell Reprogramming to Insulin-Producing Beta-Like Cells as a Potential Beta Cell Replacement Source for Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Jawahar Aravinth P. , Narayanan Siddharth , Loganathan Gopalakrishnan , Pradeep Jithu , Vitale Gary C. , Jones Christopher M. , Hughes Michael G. , Williams Stuart K. , Balamurugan Appakalai N.
Published: September 2018

Islet cell auto-transplantation is a novel strategy for maintaining blood glucose levels and
improving the quality of life in patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP). Despite the many recent advances
associated with this therapy, obtaining a good yield of islet infusate still remains a pressing
challenge. Reprogramming technology, by making use of the pancreatic exocrine compartment, can
open the possibility of generating novel insulin-producing cells. Several lineage-tracing studies present
evidence that exocrine cells undergo dedifferentiation into a progenitor-like state from which they can
be manipulated to form insulin-producing cells. This review will present an overview of recent reports
that demonstrate the potential of utilizing pancreatic ductal cells (PDCs) for reprogramming into insulin-
producing cells, focusing on the recent advances and the conflicting views. A large pool of ductal
cells is released along with islets during the human islet isolation process, but these cells are separated
from the pure islets during the purification process. By identifying and improving existing ductal cell
culture methods and developing a better understanding of mechanisms by which these cells can be manipulated
to form hormone-producing islet-like cells, PDCs could prove to be a strong clinical tool in
providing an alternative beta cell source, thus helping CP patients maintain their long-term glucose levels.
Effectiveness of the “Create Sensitivity” Caring Model on Blood Glucose/ Glycosylated Hemoglobin and Quality of Life in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hekmatpou Davood , Poorgharahkhan Ali , Sajjadi Mahbobeh , Javaheri Amir
Published: September 2018

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the “Create Sensitivity” caring model on blood glucose/ glycosylated hemoglobin and quality of life in patients with type 2 Diabetes.

Methods:

This study enrolled 70 patients from an educational hospital in Kurdistan, Iran. The model was implemented among the test group over a period of 3 months. Blood glucose/ glycosylated hemoglobin and patients’ quality of life were measured before and after intervention. Data were analyzed using version 21 of the statistical software SPSS.

Results:

After the intervention, significant differences existed between the test and control groups both in blood glucose levels (means, 146.4 ± 51.3 mg/dl and 175.6 ± 59.8 mg/dl, respectively;P=0.032) and in glycosylated hemoglobin (means, 67.89 ± 13.34 mmol/mol and 80.03 ± 17.234 mmol/mol, respectively;P= 0.002). Additionally, there was also a significant difference between the quality of life of the patients in test group (mean, 58.25 ± 5.3) and that in the control group (mean, 47.02 ± 4.5) (P= 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Use of this model was associated with reducing fasting blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin and increasing the total mean of quality of life in the patients in the test group. So, the application of this model is recommended.
Upregulation of miR-25 and miR-181 Family Members Correlates with Reduced Expression of ATXN3 in Lymphocytes from SCA3 Patients
Authors: Krauss Sybille , Nalavade Rohit , Weber Stephanie , Carter Katlynn , Evert Bernd O.
Published: September 2018

Background:

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), the most common spinocerebellar
ataxia, is caused by a polyglutamine (polyQ) expansion in the protein ataxin-3 (ATXN3). Silencing
the expression of polyQ-expanded ATXN3 rescues the cellular disease phenotype.

Objective:

This study investigated the differential expression of microRNAs (miRNAs), small
noncoding RNAs targeting gene expression, in lymphoblastoid cells (LCs) from SCA3 patients and
the capability of identified deregulated miRNAs to target and alter ATXN3 expression.

Methods: MiRNA profiling was performed by microarray hybridization of total RNA from control
and SCA3-LCs. The capability of the identified miRNAs and their target sites to suppress ATXN3 expression
was analyzed using mutagenesis, reverse transcription PCR, immunoblotting, luciferase reporter
assays, mimics and precursors of the identified miRNAs.

Results:

SCA3-LCs showed significantly decreased expression levels of ATXN3 and a significant upregulation
of the ATXN3-3’UTR targeting miRNAs, miR-32 and miR-181c and closely related members
of the miR-25 and miR-181 family, respectively. MiR-32 and miR-181c effectively targeted the
3’UTR of ATXN3 and suppressed the expression of ATXN3.

Conclusions: The simultaneous upregulation of closely related miRNAs targeting the 3’UTR of
ATXN3 and the significantly reduced ATXN3 expression levels in SCA3-LCs suggests that miR-25
and miR-181 family members cooperatively bind to the 3’UTR to suppress the expression of ATXN3.
The findings further suggest that the upregulation of miR-25 and miR-181 family members in SCA3-
LCs reflects a cell type-specific, protective mechanism to diminish polyQ-mediated cytotoxic effects.
Thus, miRNA mimics of miR-25 and miR-181 family members may prove useful for the treatment of
SCA3.
The Ecology of Stdent Retention
Authors: Mendoza Pilar , Malcolm Zaria , Parish Nancy
Published: September 2018

This study investigated qualitatively how undergraduate students experienced the Great Recession at a flagship university in the South Eastern of United States and how this experience relates to their retention. Results indicate that the Great Recession has significantly impacted students' engagement and commitments. We argue that student retention is significantly influenced by forces beyond students' immediate surroundings. As such, we offer an ecological model of student retention that embraces the common theoretical understandings of student retention while encompassing macroinfluences at the same time. This study provides deeper understanding of the process of student engagement.
Unit Hydrograph Modeling using Geomorphological Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph (GIUH) Method
Authors: Sulistyowati Anantri , Jayadi Rachmad , Rahardjo Adam Pamudji
Published: September 2018

Flood forecasting at Wonogiri Reservoir is restricted on the availability of hydrologic data due to limited monitoring gauges. This issue triggers study of unit hydrograph modeling using Geomorphological Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph (GIUH) which is based on Geographic Information System (GIS). Analysis of physical watershed parameters was conducted on Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data using software Watershed Modeling System (WMS) 10.1 and ArcGIS. Nash model and S-curve method were used to process triangular GIUH into hourly Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph (IUH) and Unit Hydrograph (UH) and then was compared with the observed UH of Collins method. A sensitivity analysis was conducted on parameter of RL and Nash-model k. Evaluation of accuracy of the simulated GIUH runoff hydrograph was also conducted. The GIUH model generated UH with smaller peak discharge Qp, also slower and longer of tp and tb values than the observed UH. Accuracy test of the simulated GIUH runoff hydrograph using Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) shows that Keduang watershed gives a satisfying result, while Wiroko watershed gives less satisfactory result. The inaccuracies occur due to limited flood events used to derive the observed UH and stream tributaries that were not properly modeled based on Strahler method.
Diversity of Soil Macro Insect in Alas Purwo National Park, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Wulandari Astri Dwi , Indrawati Tutik , Maghfirah Fitrahyanti Fiqqi , Sari Eka Kartika Arum Puspita , Fauziyah Shifa , Rosmanida Rosmanida
Published: September 2018

Indonesia is the second largest mega biodiversity of the world. One of the forest resources are soil insects. Soil insects improved the soil physical properties, added organic material content, and used as bio-indicator of environmental conditions of conservation areas, forests, or mountains. The aim of this research was to get information about the diversity, dominance, and similarity index of soil macro insect in Alas Purwo National Park, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia in 2017. Locations were selected based on purposive random sampling considering 2 habitat types; coastal forest path and tropical rain forest path. The method of this research was used pitfall trap. Insects were identified at Laboratory of Ecology, Biology Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, Airlangga University, Surabaya. The results showed that the diversity index of soil insects in the coastal forest path was 1.611 and in path of tropical rain forest was 0.855. It means that the diversity of soil macro insect in coastal forest path were medium and in path of tropical rain forest was low. The Dominancy index of coastal forest path was 0.334 and in path of tropical rain forest was 0.433. It means that the community was stable, there was no species domination. The similarity index of soil insects in both paths have a 58.8%, was a unity of the same community.
Composition of Mitochondrial DNA 16S Nucleotide of Dwarf Snakehead (Channa gachua Hamilton, 1822) from Keji River, Magelang, Central Java
Authors: Ilmi Warisatul , Arisuryanti Tuty
Published: September 2018

Indonesia has a high marine and freshwater biodiversity including freshwater fish biodiversity. One of freshwater fish which is commonly consumed by Indonesian people is dwarf snakehead (Channa gachua Hamilton, 1822). However, research on genetic characterization, especially the composition of mtDNA 16S nucleotide of dwarf snakehead has poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the composition of mtDNA 16S nucleotide of dwarf snakehead as a part of genetic characterization of the fish species taken from Keji River, Magelang, Central Java which has not been previously examined. This study analyzed 16S mt-DNA of two samples of dwarf snakehead from Keji River (KTS-01 and KTS-02). In addition, two sequences of Channa gachua with accession number KU986900, KU238074, and HM117234-HM117238 taken from GenBank were used as a comparison. A method used in this research was a PCR method and primers used in this research were 16Sar and 16Sbr. The results revealed that the average of nucleotide composition T, C, A and G of the fish species was 23.04%, 25.13%, 29.06% and 22.77% respectively whereas the average rate of nucleotide composition A+ T and G+ C was 52.10% and 47.90% respectively. The two dwarf snakehead had similar T and C composition but different in A and G composition. In addition, the G+C content in KTS-01 and KTS-02 had the highest frequency compared to other dwarf snakehead taken from GenBank. From this finding it could be assumed that there is genetic variation between the two dwarf snakehead from Keji River which is important genetic data for breeding program of the fish species in the future.
How Does Leader‐Follower Fit or Misfit in Communication Style Matter for Work Outcomes?
Authors: Fan Hua , Han Bing
Published: September 2018

We explored how leader‐follower dyadic communication influences leader‐member exchange (LMX) quality, and how LMX quality, in turn, influences followers’ job satisfaction and task performance. Paired data were collected from 205 leader‐follower dyads in China.
We conducted polynomial regression and response surface analysis to test our hypotheses. Results showed that LMX quality was higher when the leader’s communication style fitted that of the follower, and when each style fitted more closely. Furthermore, the effects of asymmetrical misfit
were identified in situations where followers had higher LMX quality and better work outcomes, and when the followers’ level of task orientation was higher and interaction orientation was lower than that of their leaders. These findings highlight the pivotal roles of both leaders and
followers in promoting work relationship quality.
Evaluation of mean platelet volume and platelet count in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Aydin Memduha , Cetin Ilhan Bilge , Elmas Tuba Serife , Cokunlu Yusuf , Eren Ibrahim
Published: September 2018

Introduction: Compared to the general
population, cardiovascular diseases are more common in schizophrenia patients
and the mortality rate is higher than the general population. One of the
explanations for increased cardiovascular events in patients with schizophrenia
is the increase in platelet activity. Platelets are essential for progression of
atherosclerotic lesions, plaque destabilization, and thrombus formation. Mean
platelet volume (MPV) is a measure of platelet size and a good marker of
platelet function and activation, which increases in cardiovascular diseases.
MPV is routinely reported during complete blood count analysis. The aim of the
present study was to evaluate MPV values of patients with schizophrenia.

Methods: In this retrospective study,
hospital-records of the patients who were consecutively admitted to psychiatry
inpatient clinic between January 2015 and January 2017 with the diagnosis of
schizophrenia were reviewed. Healthy subjects with no personal history of
psychiatric disorder were included as a control group. 

Results: A total of 100 (59 female, 41 male)
schizophrenic patients who had been consecutively admitted to the psychiatry
inpatient clinic and 37
(20 female, 17 male) healthy controls were included in this retrospective study. There
were no significant differences between the patient group and control group in
the terms of age (mean age patient group vs control group: 37.72 vs 35.03, p=0.081) and sex
(p=0.603). Body mass index (BMI) was
found to be significantly different between groups, higher in the patient group
(p=0.001). The MPV was found to be
significantly higher in patient group compared with the control group (MPV,
patient group vs control group: 10.34 fL vs 9.97 fL, p=0.041). Platelet count (PC) was significantly lower in the patient group (PC,
patient group vs control group: 234.36 vs 267.38, p=0.008) There
was no correlation between MPV and BMI (p=0.354, r=0.10), and
duration of illness (p=0.530,
r=0.06). 

Conclusions: As a result,
increased MPV and decreased PC were found in a group of schizophrenic patient
in this study. Since increased MPV and decreased PC are evaluated as risk
factors for cardiovascular diseases in the general population, they can also be considered as a
predictor of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases that are more frequently encountered in schizophrenia.
Magnitud de efecto de un programa dirigido a cuidadores familiares de personas con enfermedad crónica
Authors: Carreño-Moreno Sonia , Chaparro-Díaz Lorena , Criado Lucenith , Vega Olga Marina , Cuenca Ivonne
Published: September 2018

Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de programa “Cuidando a los Cuidadores” en la habilidad de cuidadoy sobrecarga en cuidadores familiares y determinar la magnitud del efecto. Método. Estudiocuantitativo con abordaje preexperimental con un grupo de intervención de 329 cuidadores. Losinstrumentos fueron el Inventario de Habilidad de Cuidado (CAI) y entrevista de sobrecarga deZarit. Se analizaron los datos con la prueba T de Student y el efecto fue calculado con la d deCohen y coeficiente r. Resultados. Se encontró aumentó significativo en la habilidad de cuidado yefecto fue moderado. La sobrecarga disminuyó después de la intervención y el efecto fue moderadoespecialmente para la dimensión interpersonal.
Aislamiento, identificación y evaluación de la actividad antimicrobiana de metabolitos producidos por Mucor circinelloides (Cepa Nativa SPG 321)
Authors: Chaparro Pedraza Aura Patricia , Campuzano F. Silvia E
Published: September 2018

Objetivo. Identificar y evaluar la capacidad antimicrobiana de los metabolitos aislados a partir delproceso de fermentación en una cepa de Mucor circinelloides. Método. En el presente estudio setrabajó la cepa nativa de Mucor circinelloides SPG 321 suministrada por el Grupo de Investigaciónde Biotrasformación (GIBUJ), con el fin de evaluar su actividad antimicrobiana. La cinética decrecimiento determinó que la ideofase culminó a la hora 264, hora determinada como la finalizaciónde la fermentación. Se separó el micelio del caldo y posteriormente se fraccionaron los extractos concromatografías de capa fina y columna en sílica gel, eluidas con diferentes relaciones de solventes.Resultados. Los resultados arrojados por la técnica de gases acoplado a masas CG-EM confirmanla importancia de Mucor circinelloides en la producción de ácidos grasos insaturados. A partir delmicelio se obtuvo un esterol, compuesto M. cB3. La fracción CHCl3 en biomasa mostró actividadinhibitoria para los microorganismos Gram positivos.
Caracteristicas cognitivas y oculares en enfermedad de Alzheimer
Authors: Garzón P Sandra Johanna , Camacho M Marcela , Tapiero L. Jessica Andrea , Reina Karen Daniela
Published: September 2018

La enfermedad de Alzheimer/AD es un trastorno neurodegenerativo progresivo que afecta la memoria y todas las funciones cognitivas con una edad de inicio tardío o precoz, y se presenta con una muy baja frecuencia por causa genética por alteración en el gen de la PPA, PS1 O PS2. El elemento etiológico mayor conocido es genético, con múltiples factores de susceptibilidad en interacción con factores medioambientales. Las guías de diagnóstico para la AD incluyen evaluaciones psicológicas, psiquiátricas y neurológicas con función cerebral, y no incluyen estudios de la función visual como parte del protocolo diagnóstico, siendo fuerte la evidencia de cambios oculares en retina y en algunas funciones visuales que aparecen aun sin el deterioro cognitivo característico de esta enfermedad. Objetivo. Describir las características cognitivas y oculares en la enfermedad de Alzheimer. Metodología. Se realizó una revisión documental de literatura científica en las bases de datos PubMed, Science Direct, Hinari y Ebsco Ebsco, Proquest, entre otras, con un periodo de búsqueda de los últimos 10 años, mediante los términos mesh “Alzheimer Disease and ocular changes”, “visual cognitive alteration in Alzheimer” “retina and Alzheimerdisease”. Resultados: La AD presenta un proceso neurodegenerativo con deterioro cognitivo, que se presenta en todas las regiones de la corteza cerebral, iniciándose en corteza del hipocampo y amígdala cerebral desde donde progresa a la circunvolución para-hipocampal, lóbulos temporales y frontales. Conclusiones. Varios estudios han demostrado que la AD presenta alteraciones en memoria, lenguaje, orientación visoespacial, acompañada por cambios estructurales en cerebro y en la retina al reducir el espesor de las células ganglionares, de las capas de fibras nerviosas y al contener cuerpos de inclusión con proteína beta amiloide (Aβ) y demuestran además que el diagnóstico de alteraciones funcionales por la acumulación de Aβ es un marcador precoz de la AD.
Criterios éticos y legales para la toma de decisiones en intervenciones relacionadas con nanotecnología
Authors: Fonti D , Baglini C , Irusta F , Valetti C
Published: September 2018

Las tecnociencias fundamentan su avance en la
promesa de una mejor calidad de vida para el ser
humano. Sin embargo, es necesario evitar el
extremo del optimismo ignorante de los
condicionantes económicos de las intervenciones
tecno científicas, como también la ignorancia de
las vulnerabilidades en juego. Una intervención
capaz de obtener la legitimidad social implica que
todos los involucrados puedan aceptar las
consecuencias que se desprenden de ella. En el
caso de las nanotecnologías, las intervenciones han
de juzgarse según los criterios procedimentales y
según la Declaración Universal de Bioética y
Derechos Humanos, que al mismo tiempo podrán
regir las nuevas reglamentaciones, normas y leyes
que las intervenciones requieran, particularmente
en previsión de sus resultados futuros personales,
sociales y ambientales.
La nanotecnología aplicada a la optimización de cementos de ionómero vítreo para restauración: Presentación y discución de un caso
Authors: Brain Lascano L , Mazzola I , Molina GF
Published: September 2018

La decisión de eliminar la amalgama dental como material de restauración por parte de asociaciones odontológicas de referencia internacional ha motivado la creación de una agenda de investigación y desarrollo para encontrar el sustituto más adecuado. En este marco, los cementos de ionómero vítreo se posicionan como uno de los materiales con mejores características para cumplir la función de restauración. El aporte de la nanotecnología ha colaborado para mejorar propiedades ópticas y mecánicas de este grupo de materiales. Se presenta el seguimiento clínico por 6 años luego del reemplazo de cavidades oclusales simples de amalgama por cementos de ionómero vítreo de alta viscosidad en molares permanentes inferiores, con resultados aceptables según dos criterios de evaluación
Errores cognitivos de diagnóstico en medicina bucal
Authors: Piemonte ED , Brusa M , Caciva R , Pánico RL
Published: September 2018

Las tecnociencias fundamentan su avance en la promesa de una mejor calidad de vida para el ser humano. Sin embargo, es necesario evitar el extremo del optimismo ignorante de los condicionantes económicos de las intervenciones tecno científicas, como también la ignorancia de las vulnerabilidades en juego. Una intervención capaz de obtener la legitimidad social implica que todos los involucrados puedan aceptar las consecuencias que se desprenden de ella. En el caso de las nanotecnologías, las intervenciones han de juzgarse según los criterios procedimentales y según la Declaración Universal de Bioética y Derechos Humanos, que al mismo tiempo podrán regir las nuevas reglamentaciones, normas y leyes que las intervenciones requieran, particularmente en previsión de sus resultados futuros personales, sociales y ambientales.
Polemology and xenology: Waldenfels and the sting of the alien
Authors: Prole Dragan
Published: September 2018

After explaining why phenomenology of the alien cannot be counted among
traditional philosophical disciplines, the author explores why all of
European history can be read as the ?shading of the alien? (Verblendung des
Fremden), although not in the sense of mere disregarding, neglecting or
denying of the alien, but disciplining it, manipulating and exploiting it.
The alien has not been forgotten for centuries, it was always in the
European focus, but only as an instance through which the sense of power was
traditionally constructed. Following the basic presumptions of Bernhard
Waldenfels? phenomenology of the alien the article presents the shading of
the alien as analogous to the process of its naturalization. As if the
tradition of European colonialism can be best understood in the key of
ma?tre et possesseur de?l ?tranger. That is to say, the European legacy
shows, in an extraordinary manner, that the alien can be transformed into a
resource, from which we can appropriate and assimilate everything. A crucial
insight for Waldenfels is also that strangeness is not reducible to a narrow
segment of reality, whether it is culture, religion or art-based, because
strangeness is a radical dimension that transcends all regions.
Political morality and neutrality
Authors: Sládecek Michal
Published: September 2018

The article gives the reasons why a distinction between political morality
and ethical conceptions needs to be drawn, as well as the reasons for which
political liberalism is a substantial moral conception, and as such in
tension with certain understandings of the neutrality. Further, the text
analyzes the definition of personality through capacity for action (above all
ethical). Recognition of this capacity is necessary, but not sufficient to
attribute to a person a special status from the standpoint of political
morality, since individuals also must be capable to coordinate their ethical
actions with moral principles of others. Further, the text critiques Charles
Larmore?s moral grounding of the theory of justice on respect of persons by
arguing that the concept of respect should be considered as part of the
complex interrelationships with other moral concepts, such as equality. In
this way, neutrality regarding content of respect, as well as neutrality
regarding capacity for ethical action turns out to be insufficient.
Earnings Management and Earnings Quality: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Beyer Anne , Guttman Ilan , Marinovic Iván
Published: September 2018

We study a model of earnings management and provide predictions about the time-series properties of earnings quality and reporting bias. We estimate the model to empirically separate two components of investor uncertainty: fundamental economic uncertainty, and information asymmetry between the manager and investors due to reporting noise. We find that (1) the null hypothesis of zero reporting bias is rejected; (2) the ratio of the variance of the noise introduced by the reporting process to the variance of earnings shocks is, on average, 45 percent; (3) the reporting noise plays a significantly less prominent role in valuation, due to the persistence of shocks to economic earnings; (4) the magnitude of investors' uncertainty created by reporting noise about firms' assets in place and about future earnings is similar; and (5) ignoring the possibility of reporting distortions would bias the estimates of variance and persistence of economic earnings.