bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGEMBANGAN METODE PENGELOMPOKAN IDE BERBASIS MEDIA VISUAL DALAM PEMBELAJARAN TEMATIK TEKS PROSEDUR DI KELAS IV SD
Authors: Permana Angga
Published: August 2019

Penelitian ini mengenai pengembangan metode pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual dalam pembelajaran tematik teks prosedur di kelas IV SD. Penelitian ini didasari oleh kondisi pembelajaran bahasa Indonesia yang kurang berhasil, sebagian besar siswa merasa kesulitan untuk mengungkapkan ide atau gagasan yang akan ditulis. Siswa tidak tahu bagaimana memulai dan menyusun ide-ide untuk menulis. Adapun tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan rancangan pengembangan metode pembelajaran pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual, mendeskripsikan implementasi metode pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual, mendeskripsikan profil kemampuan menulis teks prosedur berdasarkan metode pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual dan mendeskripsikan efektivitas pengembangan metode pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual. Pengembangan dilakukan melalui studi pendahuluan, pengembangan metode, dan uji coba metode kepada kelas eksperimen. Produk penelitian ini berupa rancangan pengembangan metode pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual. Produk divalidasi ahli metode pembelajaran serta diuji terbatas pada siswa kelas IV. Pengembangan metode pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual dalam pembelajaran tematik teks prosedur, didasarkan pada kajian yuridis, kajian empiris dan kajian teoretis. Sintaks dari metode ini terdiri atas 6 tahap, yaitu: (1) fase diferensiasi; (2) fase integrasi; (3) fase konseptualisasi; (4) pembentukan konsep; (5) interpretasi data; dan (6) penerapan prinsip. Uji coba pada siswa dengan metode pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual dalam pembelajaran tematik teks prosedur membuktikan bahwa aktivitas guru menunjukan hasil yang baik dalam menerapkan metode pengelompokan ide berbasis media visual, aktivitas siswa menunjukan sikap aktif dengan metode yang digunakan, dan hasil uji coba yang diukur berdasarkan uji t terbukti signifikan.
Pengaruh Implementasi Dan Pengawasan Sistem Akuntansi Keuangan Daerah Terhadap Efektivitas Kinerja Inspektorat Dalam Reviu Laporan Keuangan Daerah Di Kabupaten Cirebon Tahun 2013
Authors: Akbar Febby , Purwanto Bambang Heru
Published: August 2019

Effectiveness review of the financial statements is affected by two aspects, namely the independence of the Regional Inspectorate as the executor of the reviews and competence of the employees of the Inspectorate of the financial accounting system. But there are other factors related to the effectiveness review, the supervision and implementation of the financial system by SKPDs akuntanis. This study aims to determine the effect of the implementation and supervision together on the effectiveness of the inspectorate's performance in the review of financial statements inspectorate Cirebon area in 2013. The research method used in the study using an explanatory survey method (explanatory survey) with path analysis (Path Analysis) which is supported by the study of literature (bibliographic). The results showed that the effectiveness of the performance of the inspectorate in the review of financial statements in the areas affected by the implementation and supervision of the financial accounting system. The magnitude of the effect of the implementation of the financial accounting system by 26.7%. The magnitude of the effect of monitoring the implementation of the financial accounting system by 43.4%. This means that the effectiveness of the performance of the inspectorate in the review of financial statements in the area influenced by variable implementation and supervision of the implementation of the financial accounting system was 70.1%.
Implementasi Sistem Informasi Pasar Kerja Online (Ipk Online) Di Dinas Sosial Tenaga Kerja Dan Transmigrasi (Dinsosnakertrans) Kabupaten Brebes Periode 2014-2015
Authors: Goni Helmy Ary , Agustina Heryani
Published: August 2019

Research about Implementation of Online Labor Market Information System at Social Labor and Transmigration Agency of Brebes District started from ineffectiveness of how does the system implemented in order to give a employment service.Researcher will observe the phenomenon using six indicator based on model from Van Meter and Van Horn that is standard and objectives of policy, supported resources, organizational communications, economic social and political conditions, acceptance of implementers and implementers diposition.Researcher use descriptive qualitative method with expectation to be able to observe phenomenon experienced by participant accurately and to earn more understanding about implementation of Online Labor Market Information System at Sosial Labor and Transmigration Agency of Brebes District.As result of this research, there are some problems from six indicators that  is used to observe implementation of Online Lambor Market Information System. The problems are standard and objectives of policy, supprted resources, social and economic conditions and implementers disposition. As for the effort to solve the problems has not been able to resolve it.Researcher concludes that Implementation of Online Labor Market Information System at Social Labor and Transmigration of Brebes District has not been effective if related with the indicators. Researchers suggestions are the need of strong commitment from the implementers to understand and to monitor the Implementation of Online Labor Market System.
Seed Coating with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi for Improved Field Production of Chickpea
Authors: Rocha Inês , Duarte Isabel , Ma Ying , Souza-Alonso Pablo , Látr Aleš , Vosátka Miroslav , Freitas Helena , Oliveira Rui S.
Published: August 2019

Although arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are known to promote growth and yield of agricultural crops, inoculation methods for effective scaling up from greenhouse to the field are still underexplored. The application of single or mixed beneficial AM fungal isolates is hindered by the lack of experimental reproducibility of findings at different scales and the cost-effectivity of inoculation methods. Seed coating has been considered a feasible delivery system of AM fungal inocula for agricultural crops. In this study, the impact of single and multiple AM fungal isolates applied via seed coating on chickpea productivity was evaluated under greenhouse and field conditions. Overall, plants inoculated with multiple AM fungal isolates had better performance than those inoculated with single AM isolate under greenhouse and field conditions. While plants in greenhouse displayed higher shoot dry weight (14%) and seed individual weight (21%), in field, inoculation with multiple AM isolates increased pod (160%), and seed (148%) numbers, and grain yield (140%). Under field conditions, mycorrhizal root colonization was significantly higher in chickpea plants inoculated with multiple AM fungal isolates compared to other treatments. These findings highlight the potential of field-inoculation with multiple AM fungal isolates via seed coating as a sustainable agricultural practice for chickpea production.
Validation of an Ultra-Wideband Tracking System for Recording Individual Levels of Activity in Broilers
Authors: van der Sluis Malou , de Klerk Britt , Ellen Esther D. , de Haas Yvette , Hijink Thijme , Rodenburg T. Bas
Published: August 2019

Individual data on activity of broilers is valuable, as activity may serve as a proxy for multiple health, welfare and performance indicators. However, broilers are often kept in large groups, which makes it difficult to identify and monitor them individually. Sensor technologies might offer solutions. Here, an ultra-wideband (UWB) tracking system was implemented with the goal of validating this system for individual tracking of activity of group-housed broilers. The implemented approaches were (1) a comparison of distances moved as recorded by the UWB system and on video and (2) a study recording individual levels of activity of broilers and assessing group-level trends in activity over time; that could be compared to activity trends from literature. There was a moderately strong positive correlation between the UWB system and video tracking. Using the UWB system, we detected reductions in activity over time and we found that lightweight birds were on average more active than heavier birds. Both findings match with reports in literature. Overall, the UWB system appears well-suited for activity monitoring in broilers, when the settings are kept the same for all individuals. The longitudinal information on differences in activity can potentially be used as proxy for health, welfare and performance; but further research into individual patterns in activity is required.
Multi-Step Tail Biting Outbreak Intervention Protocols for Pigs Housed on Slatted Floors
Authors: Chou Jen-Yun , O’Driscoll Keelin , D’Eath Rick B. , Sandercock Dale A. , Camerlink Irene
Published: August 2019

Solutions are needed to keep pigs under commercial conditions without tail biting outbreaks (TBOs). However, as TBOs are inevitable, even in well managed farms, it is crucial to know how to manage TBOs when they occur. We evaluated the effectiveness of multi-step intervention protocols to control TBOs. Across 96 pens (1248 undocked pigs) managed on fully-slatted floors, 40 TBOs were recorded (≥3 out of 12–14 pigs with fresh tail wounds). When an outbreak was identified, either the biters or the victims were removed, or enrichment (three ropes) was added. If the intervention failed, another intervention was randomly used until all three interventions had been deployed once. Fifty percent of TBOs were controlled after one intervention, 30% after 2–3 interventions, and 20% remained uncontrolled. A high proportion of biters/victims per pen reduced intervention success more so than the type of intervention. When only one intervention was used, adding ropes was the fastest method to overcome TBOs. Removed biters and victims were successfully reintroduced within 14 days back to their home pens. In conclusion, 80% of TBOs were successfully controlled within 18.4 ± 1.7 days on average using one or multiple cost-effective intervention strategies.
Increasing River Temperature Shifts Impact the Yangtze Ecosystem: Evidence from the Endangered Chinese Sturgeon
Authors: Zhang Hui , Kang Myounghee , Wu Jinming , Wang Chengyou , Li Junyi , Du Hao , Yang Haile , Wei Qiwei
Published: August 2019

The Yangtze River has the third greatest water flow and is one of the most human-influenced rivers in the world. Since 1950, this river system has experienced drastic human interventions, leading to various environmental changes, including water temperature. In this study, based on observations during the past sixty years, we found that the seasonal temperature regime has been altered, both temporally (1–5 °C variation) and spatially (>626 km distance). Temperature shifts not only delay the timing of fish spawning directly, but also lead to degeneration in gonad development. Temperature regime alterations have delayed the suitable spawning temperature window by approximately 29 days over a decade (2003–2016). It confirmed that a period of lower temperature, higher cumulative temperature, and relatively higher temperature differences promoted the maturation of potential spawners based on the correlation analysis (p < 0.05). Also, thermal alterations were highly correlated with reservoir capacity upstream (R2 = 0.866). On-going cascade dam construction and global warming will lead to further temperature shifts. Currently, rigorous protection measures on the breeding population of the Chinese sturgeon and its critical habitats is urgently needed to prevent the crisis of the species extinction. Increasing river thermal shifts not only threaten the Chinese sturgeon but also affect the entire Yangtze aquatic ecosystem.
The Influence of Welfare Training on Bird Welfare and Carcass Quality in Two Commercial Poultry Primary Processing Plants
Authors: Wigham Ellie , Grist Andrew , Mullan Siobhan , Wotton Stephen , Butterworth Andrew
Published: August 2019

The number of broilers slaughtered globally is increasing. Ensuring acceptable welfare conditions for birds at the time of slaughter is paramount in meeting legislative and retailer specifications, and in producing high quality meat. There is knowledge that welfare training programs for members of the farming and red meat slaughter industry can improve animal welfare measures and product quality, however there is little evidence of the effects of welfare training in poultry processing plants. In our study, a comprehensive welfare training program was introduced to a Costa Rican and a British commercial broiler primary processing plant, both of which slaughter birds by way of neck cut post electrical water bath stunning. The effects of this program on some welfare and product quality measures were investigated, both immediately and six months post training. The welfare measures that showed significant improvements post training included; flapping at shackling, pre-stun shocks, stun parameters and effective neck cut. Product quality measures including broken wings and red pygostyles also improved, however the positive effect of training was not seen in all quality measures. Welfare training does have the potential to improve broiler welfare and product quality at slaughter, and these data could help the development and targeting of future welfare training courses and encourage the uptake of welfare training in the poultry slaughter industry.
Risk of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Infection in Pet Cats in Australia is Higher in Areas of Lower Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Tran Vivian , Kelman Mark , Ward Michael , Westman Mark
Published: August 2019

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline calicivirus (FCV), and feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) are common viral infections of domestic cats in Australia. A study was performed to investigate the possible effect of area-based socioeconomic factors on the occurrence of FIV, FCV, and FHV-1 infection in Australian client-owned cats. A total of 1044 cases, reported to a voluntary Australian online disease surveillance system between January 2010 and July 2017, were analysed with respect to their postcode-related socioeconomic factors using the Socio-Economic Indexes For Areas (SEIFA). SEIFA consists of four different indexes which describe different aspects of socioeconomic advantage and disadvantage. Signalment details including age, sex, neuter status, and breed were also considered. A significant correlation was observed between areas of lower socioeconomic status and a higher number of reported cases of FIV infection for all four SEIFA indexes (p ≤ 0.0002). Postcodes with SEIFA indexes below the Australian median (“disadvantaged” areas) were 1.6–2.3 times more likely to have reported cases of FIV infection than postcodes with SEIFA indexes above the median (“advantaged” areas). In contrast, no correlation was observed between the number of reported cases of FCV or FHV-1 infection and any of the four SEIFA indexes (p > 0.05). When signalment data were analysed for the three infections, FIV-infected cats were more likely to be older (p < 0.00001), male (p < 0.0001), neutered (p = 0.03), and non-pedigree (p < 0.0001) compared to FCV and FHV-1 infected cats. Results from this study suggest that area-based disease control strategies, particularly in areas of social disadvantage, might be effective in reducing the prevalence of FIV infection in pet cats in Australia.
Antioxidant Regulation of Cell Reprogramming
Authors: Suzuki Yuichiro J. , Shults Nataliia V.
Published: August 2019

Discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has revolutionized regeneration biology, providing further mechanistic insights and possible therapeutic applications. The original discovery by Yamanaka and co-workers showed that the expression of four transcription factors in fibroblasts resulted in the generation of iPSCs that can be differentiated into various cell types. This technology should be particularly useful for restoring cells with limited proliferative capacities such as adult heart muscle cells and neurons, in order to treat diseases affecting these cell types. More recently, iPSCs-mediated cell reprogramming has advanced to new technologies including direct reprogramming and pharmacological reprogramming. Direct reprogramming allows for the conversion of fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes, neurons or other cells by expressing multiple cell type-specific transcription factors without going through the production of iPSCs. Both iPSC-mediated reprogramming as well as direct reprogramming can also be promoted by a combination of small molecules, opening up a possibility for pharmacological therapies to induce cell reprogramming. However, all of these processes have been shown to be affected by reactive oxygen species that reduce the efficacies of reprogramming fibroblasts into iPSCs, differentiating iPSCs into target cells, as well as direct reprogramming. Accordingly, antioxidants have been shown to support these reprogramming processes and this review article summarizes these findings. It should be noted however, that the actions of antioxidants to support cell reprogramming may be through their ROS inhibiting abilities, but could also be due to mechanisms that are independent of classical antioxidant actions.
Induction of G2/M Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis by Genistein in Human Bladder Cancer T24 Cells through Inhibition of the ROS-Dependent PI3k/Akt Signal Transduction Pathway
Authors: Park Cheol , Cha Hee-Jae , Lee Hyesook , Hwang-Bo Hyun , Ji Seon Yeong , Kim Min Yeong , Hong Su Hyun , Jeong Jin-Woo , Han Min Ho , Choi Sung Hyun , Jin Cheng-Yun , Kim Gi-Young , Choi Yung Hyun
Published: August 2019

We examined the anti-cancer effect of genistein, a soy-derived isoflavone, in human bladder transitional cell carcinoma T24 cells. According to our data, genistein induced G2/M phase arrest of the cell cycle and apoptosis. Genistein down-regulated the levels of cyclin A and cyclin B1, but up-regulated the levels of p21WAF1/CIP1, cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) inhibitor, that was complexed with Cdc2 and Cdk2. Furthermore, genistein induced the activation of caspases (caspase-3, -8 and -9), and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage. However, genistein-induced apoptosis was significantly inhibited by a pan-caspase inhibitor, indicating that the induction of apoptosis by genestein was caspase-dependent. In addition, genistein increased the cytosolic release of cytochrome c by increasing the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and destroying mitochondria integrity. Moreover, genistein inactivated the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway, while LY294002, a PI3K/Akt inhibitor, increased the apoptosis-inducing effect of genistein. Genistein further increased the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which was significantly suppressed by N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), a ROS scavenger, and in particular, NAC prevented genistein-mediated inactivation of PI3K/Akt signaling, G2/M arrest and apoptosis. Therefore, the present results indicated that genistein promoted apoptosis induction in human bladder cancer T24 cells, which was associated with G2/M phase cell cycle arrest via regulation of ROS-dependent PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
Electrochemical Conversion of the Lignin Model Veratryl Alcohol to Veratryl Aldehyde Using Manganese(III)-Schiff Base Homogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Rouco Lara , Fernández-García M. Isabel , González-Noya Ana M. , González-Riopedre Gustavo , Tyryshkin Alexei M. , Maneiro Marcelino
Published: August 2019

Lignin and other colored structures need to be bleached after the Kraft process in the pulp industry. Development of environmentally-safe bleaching catalysts or electrocatalysts constitutes an attractive strategy for selective removal of lignin. Seven manganese(III)-complexes with Schiff base ligands 1–7 were synthetized and characterized by different analytical and spectroscopic techniques. The tetragonally elongated octahedral geometry for the manganese coordination sphere and the global µ-aquo dimeric structure were revealed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies for 1, Mn2L12(H2O)2(N(CN)2)2 (N(CN)2 = dicyanamide). Complexes 1–4 behave as more efficient peroxidase mimics as compared to 5–7. Electrochemical oxidation of the lignin model veratrylalcohol (VA) to veratrylaldehyde (VAH) is efficiently catalyzed by a type of dimanganese(III) complexes in a chlorine-free medium. The electrocatalytic reaction proceeds through the oxidation of chloride into hypochlorite at alkaline pH along with the formation of hydrogen from water as a subproduct.
Tonic Cold Pain Detection Using Choi–Williams Time-Frequency Distribution Analysis of EEG Signals: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Alazrai Rami , AL-Rawi Saifaldeen , Alwanni Hisham , Daoud Mohammad I.
Published: August 2019

Detecting pain based on analyzing electroencephalography (EEG) signals can enhance the ability of caregivers to characterize and manage clinical pain. However, the subjective nature of pain and the nonstationarity of EEG signals increase the difficulty of pain detection using EEG signals analysis. In this work, we present an EEG-based pain detection approach that analyzes the EEG signals using a quadratic time-frequency distribution, namely the Choi–Williams distribution (CWD). The use of the CWD enables construction of a time-frequency representation (TFR) of the EEG signals to characterize the time-varying spectral components of the EEG signals. The TFR of the EEG signals is analyzed to extract 12 time-frequency features for pain detection. These features are used to train a support vector machine classifier to distinguish between EEG signals that are associated with the no-pain and pain classes. To evaluate the performance of our proposed approach, we have recorded EEG signals for 24 healthy subjects under tonic cold pain stimulus. Moreover, we have developed two performance evaluation procedures—channel- and feature-based evaluation procedures—to study the effect of the utilized EEG channels and time-frequency features on the accuracy of pain detection. The experimental results show that our proposed approach achieved an average classification accuracy of 89.24% in distinguishing between the no-pain and pain classes. In addition, the classification performance achieved using our proposed approach outperforms the classification results reported in several existing EEG-based pain detection approaches.
Generating a Cylindrical Panorama from a Forward-Looking Borehole Video for Borehole Condition Analysis
Authors: Deng Zhaopeng , Cao Maoyong , Geng Yushui , Rai Laxmisha
Published: August 2019

Geological exploration plays a fundamental and crucial role in geological engineering. The most frequently used method is to obtain borehole videos using an axial view borehole camera system (AVBCS) in a pre-drilled borehole. This approach to surveying the internal structure of a borehole is based on the video playback and video screenshot analysis. One of the drawbacks of AVBCS is that it provides only a qualitative description of borehole information with a forward-looking borehole video, but quantitative analysis of the borehole data, such as the width and dip angle of fracture, are unavailable. In this paper, we proposed a new approach to create a whole borehole-wall cylindrical panorama from the borehole video acquired by AVBCS, which provides a possibility for further analysis of borehole information. Firstly, based on the Otsu and region labeling algorithms, a borehole center location algorithm is proposed to extract the borehole center of each video image automatically. Afterwards, based on coordinate mapping (CM), a virtual coordinate graph (VCG) is designed in the unwrapping process of the front view borehole-wall image sequence, generating the corresponding unfolded image sequence and reducing the computational cost. Subsequently, based on the sum of absolute difference (SAD), a projection transformation SAD (PTSAD), which considers the gray level similarity of candidate images, is proposed to achieve the matching of the unfolded image sequence. Finally, an image filtering module is introduced to filter the invalid frames and the remaining frames are stitched into a complete cylindrical panorama. Experiments on two real-world borehole videos demonstrate that the proposed method can generate panoramic borehole-wall unfolded images from videos with satisfying visual effect for follow up geological condition analysis. From the resulting image, borehole information, including the rock mechanical properties, distribution and width of fracture, fault distribution and seam thickness, can be further obtained and analyzed.
Ion Channel Properties of a Cation Channelrhodopsin, Gt_CCR4
Authors: Shigemura Shunta , Hososhima Shoko , Kandori Hideki , Tsunoda Satoshi P.
Published: August 2019

We previously reported a cation channelrhodopsin, Gt_CCR4, which is one of the 44 types of microbial rhodopsins from a cryptophyte flagellate, Guillardia theta. Due to the modest homology of amino acid sequences with a chlorophyte channelrhodopsin such as Cr_ChR2 from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, it has been proposed that a family of cryptophyte channelrhodopsin, including Gt_CCR4, has a distinct molecular mechanism for channel gating and ion permeation. In this study, we compared the photocurrent properties, cation selectivity and kinetics between well-known Cr_ChR2 and Gt_CCR4 by a conventional path clamp method. Large and stable light-induced cation conduction by Gt_CCR4 at the maximum absorbing wavelength (530 nm) was observed with only small inactivation (15%), whereas the photocurrent of Cr_ChR2 exhibited significant inactivation (50%) and desensitization. The light sensitivity of Gt_CCR4 was higher (EC50 = 0.13 mW/mm2) than that of Cr_ChR2 (EC50 = 0.80 mW/mm2) while the channel open life time (photocycle speed) was in the same range as that of Cr_ChR2 (25~30 ms for Gt_CCR4 and 10~15 ms for Cr_ChR2). This observation implies that Gt_CCR4 enables optical neuronal spiking with weak light in high temporal resolution when applied in neuroscience. Furthermore, we demonstrated high Na+ selectivity of Gt_CCR4 in which the selectivity ratio for Na+ was 37-fold larger than that for Cr_ChR2, which primarily conducts H+. On the other hand, Gt_CCR4 conducted almost no H+ and no Ca2+ under physiological conditions. These results suggest that ion selectivity in Gt_CCR4 is distinct from that in Cr_ChR2. In addition, a unique red-absorbing and stable intermediate in the photocycle was observed, indicating a photochromic property of Gt_CCR4.
Development of an Effective Information Media Using Two Android Robots
Authors: Nishio Toshiaki , Yoshikawa Yuichiro , Ogawa Kohei , Ishiguro Hiroshi
Published: August 2019

Conversational robots have been used to convey information to people in the real world. Android robots, which have a human-like appearance, are expected to be able to convey not only objective information but also subjective information, such as a robot’s feelings. Meanwhile, as an approach to realize attractive conversation, multi-party conversation by multiple robots was the focus of this study. By collaborating among several robots, the robots provide information while maintaining the naturalness of conversation. However, the effectiveness of interaction with people has not been surveyed using this method. In this paper, to develop more efficient media to convey information, we propose a scenario-based, semi-passive conversation system using two androids. To verify its effectiveness, we conducted a subjective experiment comparing it to a system that does not include any interaction with people, and we investigated how much information the proposed system successfully conveys by using a recall test and a questionnaire about the conversation and androids. The experimental results showed that participants who engaged with the proposed system recalled more content from the conversation and felt more empathic concern for androids.
Surface, Volumetric, and Wetting Properties of Oleic, Linoleic, and Linolenic Acids with Regards to Application of Canola Oil in Diesel Engines
Authors: Zdziennicka Anna , Szymczyk Katarzyna , Jańczuk Bronisław , Longwic Rafał , Sander Przemysław
Published: August 2019

Oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids are the main components of canola oil and their physiochemical properties decide on the use of canola oil as fuel for diesel engines. Therefore, the measurements of the surface tension of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids being the components of the canola oil, as well as their contact angles on the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and engine valve, were made. Additionally, the surface tension and contact angle on PTFE, PMMA, and the engine valve of the oleic acid and n-hexane mixtures were measured. On the basis of the obtained results, the components and parameters of oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids’ surface tension were determined and compared to those of the canola oil. Next, applying the components and parameters of these acids, their adhesion work to PTFE, PMMA, and the engine valve was calculated by means of various methods.
Borophene Is a Promising 2D Allotropic Material for Biomedical Devices
Authors: Tatullo Marco , Zavan Barbara , Genovese Fabio , Codispoti Bruna , Makeeva Irina , Rengo Sandro , Fortunato Leonzio , Spagnuolo Gianrico
Published: August 2019

Allotropic 2D materials are the new frontier of materials science, due to their unique strategic properties and application within several sciences. Allotropic 2D materials have shown tunable physical, chemical, biochemical, and optical characteristics, and among the allotropic materials, graphene has been widely investigated for its interesting properties, which are highly required in biomedical applications. Recently, the synthesis of thin 2D boron sheets, developed on Ag(111) substrates, was able to create a 2D triangular structure called borophene (BO). Borophene has consistently shown anisotropic behavior similar to graphene. In this topical review, we will describe the main properties and latest applications of borophene. This review will critically describe the most interesting uses of borophene as part of electronic and optical circuits. Moreover, we will report how borophene can be an innovative component of sensors within biomedical devices, and we will discuss its use in nanotechnologies and theranostic applications. The conclusions will provide insight into the latest frontiers of translational medicine involving this novel and strategic 2D allotropic material.
Design and Research of a Flexible Foot for a Multi-Foot Bionic Robot
Authors: Zhang Lei , Liu Xinzhi , Ren Ping , Gao Zenghui , Li Ang
Published: August 2019

To solve the problems of large landing impact, vibration, and poor adaptability to complex ground surfaces in the motion of a foot-type robot, a two-degree-of-freedom flexible foot-end structure was proposed and designed in this study. The effects of flexible materials, flexible parameters, and structural forms on the performance of the foot end have been discussed. Through simulation and experimentation, the parameter analysis and mechanical calibration of the foot end were completed, and a motion experiment of the flexible foot robot was designed. The simulation and experimental results showed that the flexible foot-end structure has uniform and reliable force and can effectively reduce the foot impact. Compared with the rigid foot, the foot-end force of the flexible foot was only 1/3 of the contact force, the peak foot pressure decreased by 59%, the motion stability increased by 37.4%, and the error of force perception was controlled at 11%. The flexible foot structure improved the stability of the robot motion process, reduced the vibration, provided the robot with good terrain adaptability, and achieved omnidirectional motion of the robot.
Chemical Composition and Micro Morphology of Golden Laminae in the Wall Painting “La Maestà” by Simone Martini: A Study by Optical Microscopy, XRD, FESEM-EDS and ToF-SIMS
Authors: Atrei Andrea , Scala Andrea , Giamello Marco , Uva Marianna , Pulselli Riccardo Maria , Marchettini Nadia
Published: August 2019

The chemical characterization of gilding decorations in works of art is fundamental in order to elucidate the techniques and materials used by the artists. In the present work we investigated by a combination of bulk and surface sensitive methods the composition and micro stratigraphy of the gilding laminae in the wall painting of the 14th century “La Maestà”, the masterpiece of Simone Martini. The aim of this study was to determine the composition of the gilding leaves and of the adhesive organic materials used to glue the metallic decorations to the wall painting. Due to the altered state of the samples we could not univocally identify the nature of the adhesive materials. Time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements showed that the gilding layers consisted of a gold leaf which was laid either directly on a preparation layer or on a tin lamina. The high sensitivity of ToF-SIMS and its spatial resolution allowed us to find traces of silver in the gold leaves and in the tin laminae which were not revealed by energy dispersive X-ray analysis.
Modular Optic Force Sensor for a Surgical Device Using a Fabry–Perot Interferometer
Authors: Arata Jumpei , Nitta Tatsuya , Nakatsuka Toshiki , Kawabata Tomonori , Matsunaga Tadao , Haga Yoichi , Harada Kanako , Mitsuishi Mamoru
Published: August 2019

The ability to sense force in surgery is in high demand in many applications such as force feedback in surgical robots and remote palpation (e.g., tumor detection in endoscopic surgery). In addition, recording and analyzing surgical data is of substantial value in terms of evidence-based medicine. However, force sensing in surgery remains challenging because of the specific requirements of surgical instruments, namely, they must be small, bio-compatible, sterilizable, and tolerant to noise. In this study, we propose a modular optic force sensor using a Fabry–Perot interferometer that can be used on surgical devices. The the proposed sensor can be implemented like a strain gauge, which is widely used in industrial applications but not compatible with surgery. The proposed sensor includes two key elements, a fiber-optic pressure sensor using a Fabry–Perot interferometer that was previously developed by one of the authors and a structure that includes a carbide pin that contacts the pressure sensor along the long axis. These two elements are fixed in a guide channel fabricated in a 3 × 2 × 0.5 mm sensor housing. The experimental results are promising, revealing a linear relationship between the output and the applied load while showing a linear temperature characteristic that suggests temperature compensation will be needed in use.
The 21st Century Coal Question: China, India, Development, and Climate Change
Authors: Warner Kevin J. , Jones Glenn A.
Published: August 2019

China and India are not only the two most populous nations on Earth, they are also two of the most rapidly growing economies. Historically, economic and social development have been subsidized by cheap and abundant fossil-fuels. Climate change from fossil-fuel emissions has resulted in the need to reduce fossil-fuel emissions in order to avoid catastrophic warming. If climate goals are achieved, China and India will have been the first major economies to develop via renewable energy sources. In this article, we examine the factors of projected population growth, available fossil-fuel reserves, and renewable energy installations required to develop scenarios in which both China and India may increase per capita energy consumption while remaining on trach to meet ambitious climate goals. Here, we show that China and India will have to expand their renewable energy infrastructure at unprecedented rates in order to support both population growth and development goals. In the larger scope of the literature, we recommend community-based approaches to microgrid and cookstove development in both China and India.
Study of the Combination of Self-Activating Photodynamic Therapy and Chemotherapy for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Pinto da Silva Luís , Magalhães Carla M. , Núñez-Montenegro Ara , Ferreira Paulo J.O. , Duarte Diana , Rodríguez-Borges José E. , Vale Nuno , Esteves da Silva Joaquim C.G.
Published: August 2019

Cancer is a very challenging disease to treat, both in terms of treatment efficiency and side-effects. To overcome these problems, there have been extensive studies regarding the possibility of improving treatment by employing combination therapy, and by exploring therapeutic modalities with reduced side-effects (such as photodynamic therapy (PDT)). Herein, this work has two aims: (i) to develop self-activating photosensitizers for use in light-free photodynamic therapy, which would eliminate light-related restrictions that this therapy currently possesses; (ii) to assess their co-treatment potential when combined with reference chemotherapeutic agents (Tamoxifen and Metformin). We synthesized three new photosensitizers capable of self-activation and singlet oxygen production via a chemiluminescent reaction involving only a cancer marker and without requiring a light source. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrated the cytotoxic activity of all photosensitizers for prostate and breast tumor cell lines. Analysis of co-treatment effects revealed significant improvements for breast cancer, producing better results for all combinations than just for the individual photosensitizers and even Tamoxifen. By its turn, co-treatment for prostate cancer only presented better results for one combination than for just the isolated photosensitizers and Metformin. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the cytotoxicity of the isolated photosensitizers in prostate tumor cells was already very appreciable.
Proinflammatory Action of a New Electronegative Low-Density Lipoprotein Epitope
Authors: Faulin Tanize do Espirito Santo , Kazuma Soraya Megumi , Tripodi Gustavo Luis , Cavalcante Marcela Frota , Wakasuqui Felipe , Oliveira Cristiano Luis Pinto , Degenhardt Maximilia Frazão de Souza , Michaloski Jussara , Giordano Ricardo José , Ketelhuth Daniel Francisco Jacon , Abdalla Dulcineia Saes Parra
Published: August 2019

The electronegative low-density lipoprotein, LDL (−), is an endogenously modified LDL subfraction with cytotoxic and proinflammatory actions on endothelial cells, monocytes, and macrophages contributing to the progression of atherosclerosis. In this study, epitopes of LDL (−) were mapped using a phage display library of peptides and monoclonal antibodies reactive to this modified lipoprotein. Two different peptide libraries (X6 and CX8C for 6- and 8-amino acid-long peptides, respectively) were used in the mapping. Among all tested peptides, two circular peptides, P1A3 and P2C7, were selected based on their high affinities for the monoclonal antibodies. Small-angle X-ray scattering analysis confirmed their structures as circular rings. P1A3 or P2C7 were quickly internalized by bone marrow-derived murine macrophages as shown by confocal microscopy. P2C7 increased the expression of TNFα, IL-1 β and iNOS as well as the secretion of TNFα, CCL2, and nitric oxide by murine macrophages, similar to the responses induced by LDL (−), although less intense. In contrast, P1A3 did not show pro-inflammatory effects. We identified a mimetic epitope associated with LDL (−), the P2C7 circular peptide, that activates macrophages. Our data suggest that this conformational epitope represents an important danger-associated molecular pattern of LDL (−) that triggers proinflammatory responses.
Stabilin Receptors: Role as Phosphatidylserine Receptors
Authors: Park Seung-Yoon , Kim In-San
Published: August 2019

Phosphatidylserine is a membrane phospholipid that is localized to the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. Phosphatidylserine externalization to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane is an important signal for various physiological processes, including apoptosis, platelet activation, cell fusion, lymphocyte activation, and regenerative axonal fusion. Stabilin-1 and stabilin-2 are membrane receptors that recognize phosphatidylserine on the cell surface. Here, we discuss the functions of Stabilin-1 and stabilin-2 as phosphatidylserine receptors in apoptotic cell clearance (efferocytosis) and cell fusion, and their ligand-recognition and signaling pathways.
Chemical Fingerprint of ‘Oblačinska’ Sour Cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) Pollen
Authors: Fotirić Akšić Milica , Gašić Uroš , Dragana Dabić Zagorac , Sredojević Milica , Tosti Tomislav , Natić Maja , Meland Mekjell
Published: August 2019

The aim of this research was to analyze sugars and phenolics of pollen obtained from 15 different ‘Oblačinska’ sour cherry clones and to assess the chemical fingerprint of this cultivar. Carbohydrate analysis was done using high-performance anion-exchange chromatography (HPAEC) with pulsed amperometric detection (PAD), while polyphenols were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detector–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD MS/MS) system. Glucose was the most abundant sugar, followed by fructose and sucrose. Some samples had high level of stress sugars, especially trehalose. Rutin was predominantly polyphenol in a quantity up to 181.12 mg/kg (clone III/9), with chlorogenic acid (up to 59.93 mg/kg in clone III/9) and p-coumaric acid (up to 53.99 mg/kg in clone VIII/1) coming after. According to the principal component analysis (PCA), fructose, maltose, maltotriose, sorbitol, and trehalose were the most important sugars in separating pollen samples. PCA showed splitting off clones VIII/1, IV/8, III/9, and V/P according to the quantity of phenolics and dissimilar profiles. Large differences in chemical composition of studied ‘Oblačinska sour cherry’ clone pollen were shown, proving that it is not a cultivar, but population. Finally, due to the highest level of phenolics, clones IV/8, XV/3, and VIII/1 could be singled out as a promising one for producing functional food and/or in medicinal treatments.
Superiority of the Non-Glycosylated Form over the Glycosylated Form of Irisin in the Attenuation of Adipocytic Meta-Inflammation: A Potential Factor in the Fight against Insulin Resistance
Authors: Mazur-Bialy Agnieszka Irena
Published: August 2019

Irisin is an adipomyokine that promotes the browning of white adipose tissue and exhibits protective potential against the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In our bodies, it occurs in its glycosylated form (G-IR): its activity is still poorly understood, because the majority of studies have used its non-glycosylated counterpart (nG-IR). Glycosylation can affect protein function: therefore, the present study attempted to compare the actions of both forms of irisin toward inflammatory activation of the main component of adipose tissue. The study was carried out in a coculture of 3T3 adipocytes and RAW 264.7 macrophages maintained in the presence of nG-IR or G-IR. The impact on vitality and the expression and release of key inflammatory mediators important for insulin resistance and diabetes development were assessed. The studies showed that both forms effectively inhibited the expression and release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, macrophage chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, high-mobility group box (HMGB1), leptin, and adiponectin. However, in the case of TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1, and HMGB1, the inhibition exerted by nG-IR was more prominent than that by G-IR. In addition, only nG-IR significantly inhibited macrophage migration. Here, nG-IR seemed to be the stronger inhibitor of the development of obesity-related inflammation; however, G-IR also had anti-inflammatory potential.
Syncope as Initial Presentation in an Undifferentiated Type Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patient with Acute Intracranial Hemorrhage
Authors: Wu Meng-Yu , Lin Ching-Hsiang , Hou Yueh-Tseng , Lin Po-Chen , Yiang Giou-Teng , Tien Yueh-Cheng , Yeh Hsiao-Ching
Published: August 2019

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a catastrophic complication in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). AML cells, especially in the acute promyelocytic leukemia subtype, may release microparticles (MPs), tissue factor (TF), and cancer procoagulant (CP) to promote coagulopathy. Hyperfibrinolysis is also triggered via release of annexin II, t-PA, u-PA, and u-PAR. Various inflammatory cytokines from cancer cells, such as IL-1β and TNF-α, activate endothelial cells and promote leukostasis. This condition may increase the ICH risk and lead to poor clinical outcomes. Here, we present a case under a unique situation with acute ICH detected prior to the diagnosis of AML. The patient initially presented with two episodes of syncope. Rapidly progressive ICH was noted in follow-up computed tomography (CT) scans. Therefore, we highlight that AML should be among the differential diagnoses of the etiologies of ICH. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are very important for AML patients.
Involvement of Actin in Autophagy and Autophagy-Dependent Multidrug Resistance in Cancer
Authors: Izdebska Magdalena , Zielińska Wioletta , Hałas-Wiśniewska Marta , Grzanka Alina
Published: August 2019

Currently, autophagy in the context of cancer progression arouses a lot of controversy. It is connected with the possibility of switching the nature of this process from cytotoxic to cytoprotective and vice versa depending on the treatment. At the same time, autophagy of cytoprotective character may be one of the factors determining multidrug resistance, as intensification of the process is observed in patients with poorer prognosis. The exact mechanism of this relationship is not yet fully understood; however, it is suggested that one of the elements of the puzzle may be a cytoskeleton. In the latest literature reports, more and more attention is paid to the involvement of actin in the autophagy. The role of this protein is linked to the formation of autophagosomes, which are necessary element of the process. However, based on the proven effectiveness of manipulation of the actin pool, it seems to be an attractive alternative in breaking autophagy-dependent multidrug resistance in cancer.