bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O PAPEL DO BRASIL NO PROCESSO DE INTEGRAÇÃO REGIONAL NO MERCOSUL
Authors: Oliveira Cruz Dayana Aparecida Marques de
Published: August 2019

No sistema-mundo, o Brasil desempenha o papel híbrido de semiperiferia, alternando entre a liderança regional e a subordinação. Na América do Sul, o país é um dos principais protagonistas das iniciativas de integração, dentre elas, o Mercado Comum do Sul (MERCOSUL), criado em 1991, e composto por Argentina, Brasil, Paraguai, Uruguai e Venezuela. Embora todos os membros efetivos do MERCOSUL tenham o mesmo poder de voto e veto, a influência política e econômica é distinta, portanto, nem todos os países usufruem das mesmas vantagens do processo de integração ou influenciam da mesma forma as discussões e decisões tomadas no âmbito do bloco. O MERCOSUL passou por algumas transformações desde sua criação, as quais resultaram na assinatura dos protocolos adicionais ao Tratado de Assunção e na criação do Fundo para a Convergência Estrutural do MERCOSUL (FOCEM), a partir do quais é possível analisar a influência brasileira do ponto de vista econômico e político.
OS SUJEITOS NA CENA: ANÁLISE DAS TEMPERATURAS DOS ALVOS URBANOS DE PRESIDENTE PRUDENTE/SP - INTERPRETAÇÕES A PARTIR DA ROTINA DE TRABALHO DE VARREDORAS(ES) DE RUAS
Authors: Mendes Lidiana Pinho , Tommaselli José Tadeu Garcia
Published: August 2019

Com o objetivo de compreender as relações clima, trabalho e saúde, o presente artigo procura caracterizar Presidente Prudente/SP ao que diz respeito às suas características climáticas, bem como, interpretar esta realidade a partir de uma rotina de trabalho marcada pela exposição aos elementos atmosféricos, varrição pública. Para isso, recorreu-se a referenciais teóricos que discutem sobre clima urbano, clima urbano de Presidente Prudente/SP e bibliografias que desenvolvem discussões transversais acerca da vivência desigual do clima. Entrevistas também foram realizadas com diferentes sujeitos envolvidos com a atividade de varrição da cidade. Além disso, foram elaborados mapas de temperaturas absolutas a partir de sensoriamento remoto, para todo o ano de 2017. Buscou-se desenvolver uma reflexão que problematiza as temperaturas dos alvos urbanos e o significado dessas variáveis para as(os) varredoras(es) de ruas, que vivem o intra-urbano e experimentam estas temperaturas cotidianamente.
A PARTICIPAÇÃO DO MUNICÍPIO DE UBERLÂNDIA (MG) NA DIVISÃO TERRITORIAL DO TRABALHO NO CONTEXTO DO AGRONEGÓCIO
Authors: Oliveira Denise Leonardo Custodio Machado de
Published: August 2019

O presente trabalho tem por objetivo analisar a participação do município de Uberlândia (MG) na divisão territorial do trabalho, através da exportação de produtos agropecuários e agroindustriais, a partir do ano 2000. Para tanto analisa-se a inserção brasileira na divisão internacional do trabalho com base na evolução das exportações, bem como na pauta exportadora do agronegócio, e, neste contexto, na participação do Estado de Minas Gerais no comércio de commodities. Para a análise do município em foco, adotou-se como procedimentos o levantamento de dados referentes à pauta exportadora e aos principais países de destino das exportações, no período de 2000 a 2014. Mediante a pesquisa, constatou-se que Uberlândia articula-se à esfera internacional através das exportações de gêneros básicos e semimanufaturados, sendo que os produtos do complexo soja, de carnes e de couros prevalecem na pauta exportadora, destinando-se a vários países. Assim, evidenciou-se a participação de Uberlândia na divisão territorial do trabalho, e sua articulação ao comércio globalizado de commodities, bem como o estreitamento das relações comerciais com o mercado asiático, principalmente com a China.
Effect of Expanded Perlite Aggregate Size on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Ultra Lightweight Concrete Produced with Expanded Perlite Aggregate
Authors: Tapan Mucip , Engin Celil
Published: August 2019

In this study, ultra-light weight concrete (ULWC) with heat-insulating properties is produced by using different size expanded perlite aggregates and various admixtures. The compressive strength, 4 point bending strength, freezing and thawing resistance, water absorption, dry unit weight, ultra sound velocities and thermal conductivity of the samples were determined by applying appropriate tests. The effect of different size expanded perlite aggregate on the properties of ULWC were also investigated in this study and it was found that as the expanded perlite aggregate diameter increased, the void volume uniformity, water absorption percentage and freezing-thawing resistance increased while the unit volume weight of ULWC samples, ultrasound speed velocities, thermal conductivity and compressive strength were decreased. The changes in the masses and compressive strength of ULWC samples subjected to freezing and thawing cycles were examined. The compressive strength loss was found to be between 5 % and 47 % while the weight loss was between 1 % and 3.5 % after 15 freezing and thawing cycles. Finally, the effects of the admixtures on the fresh properties of ULWC were examined and it was determined that the use of 4.5 kg of air-entraining material in one cubic meter of concrete mix is the most ideal ratio and the use of more than 0.01 % by volume of polypropylene fiber is caused settlements in fresh concrete mixtures.
Development of a Tool to Monitor Paramedic Clinical Placements: A Case Study of Innovation Overcoming Tradition
Authors: Maria Sonja , Hlushak Amanda , Diamond Adam
Published: August 2019

Introduction

This paper discusses a trial of the use of CompTracker© – an online platform used to link the student, preceptor and academic in a time sensitive manner during student clinical placement – within a cohort of 330 first and second year paramedic students studying at an Australian university. CompTracker© allows for preceptors to identify and assess clinical competencies, and for the student to reflect after each case is completed on placement. The tool was initially piloted, and then remodeled on several attempts to improve its overall functionality and relevance for the placement learning experience. The study aims to educate and inform other health disciplines that may have an interest in using online tools for competency tracking and education in diverse workplaces.

Methods

Multiple surveys were conducted over a 3-year period, using both Likert 5-point scales and open-ended questions, to evaluate 330 first and second year students’ and 261 preceptors’ experiences.

Results

Of the 54 student responses, 92% felt the tool was useful and 67% felt it was easy to use. Within the preceptor results, 63 ± 2% preferred CompTracker© over traditional paper-based methods.

Conclusion

CompTracker© can be used to support students and preceptors in clinical placement. The flexibility of this online tool makes it adaptable to most clinical workplaces, and should be considered in any workplace that requires the use of competency-based clinical assessment and used in place of traditional paper-based portfolios.
Pengalaman Ibu Bersalin Yang Mengalami Rupture Perineum Derajat 3-4 Di RSUD Kabupaten Tangerang
Authors: Yolandia Rita Ayu
Published: August 2019

Rupture perineum adalah robekan  jalan lahir yang terjadi pada persalinan dengan trouma. Robekan jalan lahir biasanya karena episiotomi, robekan spontan perineum trouma forcep atau vakum ekstrasi.Tujuan dari Penelitian ini adalah Untuk mengetahui Pengalaman Ibu Bersalin yang Mengalami Rupture Perineum Derajat 3-4 Di RSUD Kabupaten Tangerang ada tahun 2015. Metode Penelitian : Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan pengumpulan data menggunakan wawancara secara mendalam dan terbuka, penelitian ini dilakukan pada bulan September – November. Hasil penelitian : didapatkan bahwa dari 10 ibu bersalin yang mengalami rupture perineum  derajat 3 berusia 20-31 th 6 diantaranya melahirkan untuk yang pertama kalinya , 7 orang ibu mengalami persalinan dengan alat bantu vakum , dan semua ibu bersalin mengalami kecemasan akan luka jahitan sehingga membuat para ibu mengalami susah buang air besar, dan 80 %  ibu post partum masih belum siap melakukan hubungan suami istri setelah 6 minggu pasca melahirkan. Kesimpulan  :10 ibu bersalin yang mengalami rupture perineum mengalami kecemasan, yang membuat para ibu susah buang air besar dan belum siap untuk melakukan hubungan suami istri setelah 6 minggu pasca melahirkan, dan merasa senang dan puas atas pelayanan rumah sakit RSUD Kabupaten Tangerang.
Pengukuran Empat Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Tingkat Stress pada Wanita Menopause
Authors: Dewi Meinasari Kurnia
Published: August 2019

Stress adalah bentuk ketegangan dari fisik, psikis, emosi maupun mental. stress dapat membuat produktivitas menurun, rasa sakit dan gangguan-gangguan mental. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui pengaruh langsung dan tidak langsung serta besaran antara persepsi, konsep diri, dukungan keluarga dan kualitas hidup terhadap tingkat stress pada wanita menopause. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan cross sectional. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh wanita menopause di RW 15 Kelurahan Mustika Jaya,Bekasi Timur. Sampel yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah 72 responden, yang diambil secara teknik total sampling. Variabel endogen adalah tingkat stress pada wanita menopause motivasi, konsep diri serta dukungan keluarga, sedangkan variabel eksogen adalah persepsi. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan cara membagikan kuesioner.Metode analisis yang digunakan adalah Structural Equation Model (SEM) mengunakan SmartPLS 2.0 dan SPSS 20. Hasil temuan penelitian yaitu besaran pengaruh persepsi sebesar 4,07%, konsep diri 1,28%, dukungan keluarga 8,38% dan kualitas hidup 5,42%. Pengaruh langsung tingkat stress wanita menopause sebesar 19,15% dan pengaruh tidak langsung sebesar 0,0367%. Sehingga total pengaruh langsung dan tidak langsung strategi coping sebesar 19,19%. Tenaga kesehatan diharapkan mampu menggali lebih dalam tekanan psikologis yang dialami wanita menopause melalui cara memberikan informasi kesehatan dan meningkatkan motivasi.
Hubungan Pengetahuan, Peran Keluarga, Lingkungan dan Dukungan Tenaga Kesehatan terhadap Perawatan Tali Pusat
Authors: Sugesti Retno , Mustohiroh Siti
Published: August 2019

Perawatan tali pusat adalah perbuatan merawat atau memelihara pada tali pusat bayi setelah tali pusat dipotong sampai sebelum puput. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui hubungan pengetahuan, peran keluarga, lingkungan dan dukungan tenaga kesehatan terhadap perawatan tali pusat di Kp. Pamanyaran Ds. Linduk Kec. Pontang Kab. Serang-Banten Tahun 2016. Penelitian ini dilakukan karena masih banyak bayi baru lahir yang mengalami infeksi pada tali pusat akibat perawatan tali pusat yang kurang baik. Desain penelitian ini menggunakan metode cross sectional, data primer dengan teknik pengambilan sampling yaitu accidental sampling sebanyak 20 orang, instrumen penelitian menggunakan kuesioner. Hasil penelitian didapatkan bahwa sebagian besar ibu nifas pengetahuan kurang sebesar (65%), sebagian besar ibu nifas peran keluarga tidak mendukung sebesar (75%), sebagian besar ibu nifas lingkungan  kurang sebesar (70%),  dan lebih dari setengahnya ibu nifas dukungan tenaga kesehatan tidak mendukung sebesar (60%). Dari hasil uji chi-square diperoleh terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara pengetahuan (p value = 0,002), peran keluarga (p value = 0,031), lingkungan (p value = 0,007),  dan dukungan tenaga kesehatan (p value = 0,004) terhadap perawatan tali pusat. Saran bagi ibu nifas agar merawat tali pusat pada bayi baru lahir dengan benar. Bagi Institusi Sekolah hendaknya mengadakan program komunikasi, informasi dan edukasi atau penyuluhan yang berkala mengenai masalah kesehatan neonatus bayi dan balita terutama perawatan tali pusat.
Hubungan Peran Orang Tua dan Pola Asuh Makan terhadap Perkembangan Balita
Authors: Noviyani Ernita Prima , Jayatmi Irma , Herliana Irma
Published: August 2019

Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui hubungan pola asuh orang tua dan pola asuh  makan terhadap perkembangan balitadi Puskesmas Kecamatan Pasar Minggu Jakarta Selatan Tahun 2017. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif dengan pendekatan rancangan desain Cross Sectional.Sampel yang diambil adalah seluruh total populasi yang ada yaitu seluruh ibu-ibu yang mempunyai anak usia balita Puskesmas Kecamatan Pasar Minggu Jakarta Selatan  Tahun 2017 sebanyak 107 orang. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan variabel peran orang tua diperoleh p value sebesar 0,019, variabel pola asuh makan diperoleh p value sebesar 0,011, maka dapat disimpulkan bahwa ada hubungan antara peran orang tua dan pola asuh makan dengan perkembangan Balita di Puskesmas Kecamatan Pasar Minggu Jakarta Selatan Tahun 2017. Disimpulkan bahwa peran orangtua berpengaruhdalam perkembangan yaitu membentuk kemampuan dan keterampilannyadalam mengasuh dan mendidik anak-anaknya. Sedangakan pola makan memiliki hubungan dengan perkembangan anak dimana orang tua yang memiliki tingkat pengetahuan yang baik tentang pola makan akan mampu untuk memantau dan melatih anak untuk perkembangan dengan optimal sehingga jika terjadi kelainan tumbuh kemang pada anak dapat dideteksi secara dini. Disarankan untuk orang tua, harus selalu memberikan serta meningkatkan perannya dalam memantau perkembangan anak, serta memberikan pola asuh makan yang baik.
Hubungan Karakteristik, Pengetahuan dan Keterampilan Hidup (Life Skill) Remaja tentang Perilaku Berpacaran
Authors: Lindawati Rizki Dwi
Published: August 2019

Pada masa remaja mereka akan mengalami masa yang penuh dengan perubahan, mereka harus dapat melewati masa transisi kehidupannya dengan baik dan tepat. Oleh sebab itu, agar remaja dapat melalui setiap transisi ini dengan baik salah satu syaratnya adalah memiliki keterampilan hidup (life skill). Keterampilan hidup (life skill) adalah kemampuan untuk berperilaku yang adaptif dan positif yang membuat seseorang dapat menyelesaikan kebutuhan dan tantangan sehari-hari dengan efektif. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui hubungan karakteristik, pengetahuan dan keterampilan hidup (life skill) remaja mengenai perilaku berpacaran pada mahasiswa jurusan psikologi di Universitas Gunadarma tahun 2015. Desain penelitian yang digunakan adalah kuantitatif dengan cross sectional, jumlah sampel pada penelitian ini adalah 30 responden. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa pengalaman berpacaran, pekerjaan orang tua, dan pengetahuan responden memiliki hasil p-value lebih besar dari 0,05 memberikan arti bahwa terdapat hubungan yang bermakna dengan perilaku berpacaran, sedangkan untuk usia, jenis kelamin, dan keterampilan hidup (life skill) tidak terdapat hubungan bermakna dengan perilaku berpacaran. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian maka penulis menyarankan kepada Universitas Gunadarma untuk bekerja sama dengan badan kesehatan seperti PKPR (Badan Kesehatan Peduli Remaja) untuk mendapatkan penyuluhan atau pengetahuan tentang kesehatan reproduksi.
Faktor – faktor yang Berhubungan dengan Perilaku Seks Pra Nikah Remaja
Authors: Saputri Yunita Ilhami
Published: August 2019

Perilaku seksual adalah segala tingkah laku yang didorong oleh hasrat seksual baik dengan lawan jenis maupun dengan sesama jenis, bentuk perilaku ini bermacam-macam mulai dari berpegangan tangan sampai tingkah laku berkencan, bercumbu dan bersenggama. Adapun tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang berhubungan dengan perilaku seks pra nikah pada remaja di SMP Negeri 5 Tangerang, Tahun 2014. Desain penelitian deskriptif dengan metoda cross sectional. Sampel penelitian ini adalah seluruh siswa-siswi di SMP Negeri 5 Tangerang, Tahun 2014 sejumlah 172 orang. Dari hasil pengolahan data didapatkan bahwa remaja yang pernah melakukan perilaku seks pra nikah sebanyak 106 remaja (61,6%). Pada hasil analisis bivariat didapatkan bahwa pengetahuan, peran orang tua dan sumber informasi mempunyai hubungan yang bermakna dengan perilaku seks pra nikah pada remaja. Pengetahuan, peran orang tua, dan informasi yang diberikan tentang seks belum optimal, diperlukan adanya peningkatan pengetahuan remaja tentang seks.
Pengaruh Program Achievement Motivation Training (AMT) terhadap Motivasi Berprestasi dan Prestasi Mahasiswa Akademi Kebidanan
Authors: Jamilah Lala
Published: August 2019

Hasil studi pendahuluan di Akademi Kebidanan Bogor Husada, ditemukan masalah rendahnya prestasi mahasiswa terbukti dari index prestasi lulusan tahun 2014 (IPK<2,75=37,37%), (IPK2,75-3,50=60,61%), (IPK>3,50=2,02%), diduga karena rendahnya motivasi berprestasi mahasiswa. Beberapa penelitian menunjukkan program Achievement Motivation Training signifikan meningkatkan motivasi berprestasi. Guna mengatasi masalah tersebut perlu dilakukan penelitian apakah program Achievement Motivation Training dapat meningkatkan motivasi berprestasi mahasiswa. Rancangan penelitian, quasi experiment dengan pre-post control group design. Subjek penelitian adalah mahasiswa Akademi Kebidanan Bogor Husada. Pengambilan sampel menggunakan simple random sampling. Jumlah sampel 56 mahasiswa terdiri dari 28 mahasiswa pada grup kontrol dan 28 mahasiswa pada grup perlakuan. Analisis menggunakan uji t berpasangan, t tidak berpasangan, uji Mann-Whitney, dan uji Anakova.Hasil penelitian menunjukkan, terdapat perbedaan yang bermakna (p<0,05) motivasi berprestasi antara kelompok kontrol dan kelompok perlakuan, terdapat perbedaan yang bermakna pada aspek motivasi berprestasi moderate task difficulty (p<0,05), persistent (p<0,05), feedback (p<0,05), responsibility (p<0,05) dan innovativeness (p<0,05).Simpulan hasil penelitian, program achievement motivation training meningkatkan rerata motivasi berprestasi dan aspek motivasi berprestasi pada aspek moderate task difficulty, persistent, feedback, responsibility dan innovativeness.
Pengaruh Budaya Organisasi, Motivasi Kerja, Kepemimpinan terhadap Kepuasan Kerja Karyawan
Authors: Tambunan Novrida
Published: August 2019

Kepuasan kerja diperoleh dari desian pekerjaan dan tempat kerja yang menfasilitasi kualitas ekternal. Kepuasan kerja didefenisikan sebagai suatu ungkapan  emosional yang bersifat fositif atau menyenangkan sebagai hasil dari penilaian terhadap suatu  pekerjaan atau pengalaman kerja. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh budaya organisasi, motivasi kerja, kepemimpinan terhadap kepuasan kerja karyawan di Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Indonesia Maju (STIKIM) Jakarta. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan desain cross sectional. Populasi merupakan seluruh karyawan dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 50 orang. Analisis data menggunakan analisis regresi linier. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa semua variabel (budaya organisai, motivasi dan kepemimpinan) mempunyai hubungan yang signifikan dengan kepuasan kerja dengan nilai p value masing-masing yaitu sebesar 0,000. Dan dari hasil uji korelasi didapat nilai r dari masing-masing variabel yaitu budaya organisasi (0,718), motivasi (0,518), peran suami (0,654), yang artinya semua variabel mempunyai hubungan yang kuat dan berpola positif terhadap kepuasan kerja. Analisis regresi linier berganda menyatakan bahwa dari ketiga variabel,  yang dominan dalam mempengaruhi hubungan dengan kepuasan kerja yaitu budaya organisasi.
MapReduce Algorithm for Variants of Skyline Queries: Skyband and Dominating Queries
Authors: Siddique Md. Anisuzzaman , Tian Hao , Qaosar Mahboob , Morimoto Yasuhiko
Published: August 2019

The skyline query and its variant queries are useful functions in the early stages of a knowledge-discovery processes. The skyline query and its variant queries select a set of important objects, which are better than other common objects in the dataset. In order to handle big data, such knowledge-discovery queries must be computed in parallel distributed environments. In this paper, we consider an efficient parallel algorithm for the “K-skyband query” and the “top-k dominating query”, which are popular variants of skyline query. We propose a method for computing both queries simultaneously in a parallel distributed framework called MapReduce, which is a popular framework for processing “big data” problems. Our extensive evaluation results validate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm on both real and synthetic datasets.
Cyclotomic Trace Codes
Authors: Crnković Dean , Švob Andrea , Tonchev Vladimir D.
Published: August 2019

A generalization of Ding’s construction is proposed that employs as a defining set the collection of the sth powers ( s ≥ 2 ) of all nonzero elements in G F ( p m ) , where p ≥ 2 is prime. Some of the resulting codes are optimal or near-optimal and include projective codes over G F ( 4 ) that give rise to optimal or near optimal quantum codes. In addition, the codes yield interesting combinatorial structures, such as strongly regular graphs and block designs.
An Examination of the Performance of Blank Cartridges Used in Captive Bolt Devices for the Pre-Slaughter Stunning and Euthanasia of Animals
Authors: Grist Andrew , Lines Jeff A. , Bock Randall , Knowles Toby G. , Wotton Stephen B.
Published: August 2019

Blank cartridges provide the power source for the majority of captive bolt devices used for rendering animals unconscious prior to slaughter within the United Kingdom or euthanasia worldwide. This paper presents the results of the examination of cartridges as one of the variables that can contribute to an unsuccessful application of this method in practice. Variation was found in cartridge weight, propellant fill volume and velocity within boxes of 1000 cartridges. The variation found was greater in lower charge (1.00 grain) cartridges than in 3.00 grain cartridges, however velocity was found to be variable in both sets. For example, in vivo velocity measurements with 0.25″ calibre 3.00 grain cartridges demonstrated an average velocity of 50.8 m/s over 200 shots with a range of 35.7 to 62.9 m/s when used in the same device. This work demonstrates that variation in cartridge performance does occur and can be due to various factors such as fill volume and propellant function, and simply weighing cartridges cannot be used to determine function, therefore cartridge performance must be a factor that is considered in the event of a miss-stun.
BICOS—An Algorithm for Fast Real-Time Correspondence Search for Statistical Pattern Projection-Based Active Stereo Sensors
Authors: Dietrich Patrick , Heist Stefan , Landmann Martin , Kühmstedt Peter , Notni Gunther
Published: August 2019

Pattern projection-based 3D measurement systems are widely used for contactless, non-destructive optical 3D shape measurements. In addition, many robot-operated automation tasks require real-time reconstruction of accurate 3D data. In previous works, we have demonstrated 3D scanning based on statistical pattern projection-aided stereo matching between two cameras. One major advantage of this technology is that the actually projected patterns do not have to be known a priori in the reconstruction software. This allows much simpler projector designs and enables high-speed projection. However, to find corresponding pixels between cameras, it is necessary to search the best match amongst all pixels within the geometrically possible image area (that is, within a range on the corresponding epipolar line). The well-established method for this search is to compare each candidate pixel by temporal normalized cross correlation of the brightness value sequences of both pixels. This is computationally expensive and interdicts fast real-time applications on inexpensive computer hardware. We show two variants of our algorithm “Binary Correspondence Search” (BICOS), which solve this task in significantly reduced calculation time. In practice, our algorithm is much faster than traditional, purely cross-correlation-based search while maintaining a similar level of accuracy.
A Novel Predictable Rock Breaker Using Intelligent Hydraulic Control with ICT Convergences
Authors: Yoon Bok-Joong , Lee Kil-Soo , Lee Jae-Hak
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a hydraulic breaker system is suggested with optimized impact forces and with active control to improve the system’s energy efficiency. While performing operations such as demolition, rock pulverization, and ground hammering, the consistent breaking force causes energy dissipation due to the various strengths of the bedrock. Moreover, if the ground condition is not monitored, this may lead to catastrophic damage to the whole system. Moreover, frequent part changes can result in fatal malfunction. Therefore, a novel rock breaker is needed that is able to predict target properties of the rock in order to perform at the optimal impact force. The characteristics of rock forecasts obtained by a proximity sensor can determine the depth at which the piston stroke will reach the object. Moreover, a cascade control system for multiple levels of impact points, included operating and monitoring modules, is developed by applying ICT convergence through a wireless communication system. Consequently, adequate results were obtained from the applied field test on the feasibility of the suggested breaking system, thus confirming the possibility of applying this system in conventional heavy industries.
Interactions of Tumor Necrosis Factor–Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand (TRAIL) with the Immune System: Implications for Inflammation and Cancer
Authors: Beyer Katharina , Baukloh Ann-Kathrin , Stoyanova Ani , Kamphues Carsten , Sattler Arne , Kotsch Katja
Published: August 2019

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a member of the TNF superfamily. TRAIL has historically been distinct from the Fas ligand and TNFα in terms of selective apoptosis induction in tumor cells and has a nearly non-existent systemic toxicity. Consequently, in the search for an ideal drug for tumor therapy, TRAIL rapidly drew interest, promising effective tumor control with minimal side effects. However, euphoria gave way to disillusionment as it turned out that carcinoma cells possess or can acquire resistance to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Additionally, studies on models of inflammation and autoimmunity revealed that TRAIL can influence immune cells in many different ways. While TRAIL was initially found to be an important player in tumor defense by natural killer cells or cytotoxic T cells, additional effects of TRAIL on regulatory T cells and effector T cells, as well as on neutrophilic granulocytes and antigen-presenting cells, became focuses of interest. The tumor-promoting effects of these interactions become particularly important for consideration in cases where tumors are resistant to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Consequently, murine models have shown that TRAIL can impair the tumor microenvironment toward a more immunosuppressive type, thereby promoting tumor growth. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on TRAIL’s interactions with the immune system in the context of cancer.
Long-Term Dynamics of Three Dimensional Telomere Profiles in Circulating Tumor Cells in High-Risk Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Androgen-Deprivation and Radiation Therapy
Authors: Wark Landon , Quon Harvey , Ong Aldrich , Drachenberg Darrel , Rangel-Pozzo Aline , Mai Sabine
Published: August 2019

Patient-specific assessment, disease monitoring, and the development of an accurate early surrogate of the therapeutic efficacy of locally advanced prostate cancer still remain a clinical challenge. Contrary to prostate biopsies, circulating tumor cell (CTC) collection from blood is a less-invasive method and has potential as a real-time liquid biopsy and as a surrogate marker for treatment efficacy. In this study, we used size-based filtration to isolate CTCs from the blood of 100 prostate cancer patients with high-risk localized disease. CTCs from five time points: +0, +2, +6, +12 and +24 months were analyzed. Consenting treatment-naïve patients with cT3, Gleason 8-10, or prostate-specific antigen > 20 ng/mL and non-metastatic prostate cancer were included. For all time points, we performed 3D telomere-specific quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization on a minimum of thirty isolated CTCs. The patients were divided into five groups based on the changes of number of telomeres vs telomere lengths over time and into three clusters based on all telomere parameters found on diagnosis. Group 2 was classified as non-respondent to treatment and the Cluster 3 presented more aggressive phenotype. Additionally, we compared our telomere results with the PSA levels for each patient at 6 months of ADT, at 6 months of completed RT, and at 36 months post-initial therapy. CTCs of patients with PSA levels above or equal to 0.1 ng/mL presented significant increases of nuclear volume, number of telomeres, and telomere aggregates. The 3D telomere analysis of CTCs identified disease heterogeneity among a clinically homogeneous group of patients, which suggests differences in therapeutic responses. Our finding suggests a new opportunity for better treatment monitoring of patients with localized high-risk prostate cancer.
Effect of Transition Metal Additives on the Catalytic Performance of Cu–Mn/SAPO-34 for Selective Catalytic Reduction of NO with NH3 at Low Temperature
Authors: Liu Guofu , Zhang Wenjie , He Pengfei , Shen Dekui , Wu Chunfei , Gong Chenghong
Published: August 2019

The adsorption of NO, NH3, H2O, and SO2 gaseous molecules on different transition metal oxides was studied based on density function theory (DFT), and three better-performing transition metal elements (Fe, Co, and Ce) were selected. Cu–Mn/SAPO-34 catalysts were prepared by impregnation method and then modified by the selected transition metals (Fe, Co, and Ce); the SO2 resistance experiments and characterizations including Brunner−Emmet−Teller (BET), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM), and thermal gravity analysis (TG)-differential thermal gravity (DTG) before and after SO2 poisoning were conducted. The results showed that the deactivation of the Cu–Mn/SAPO-34 catalyst is ascribed to the deposition of lots of ammonium sulfates on the surface, depositing on the active sites and inhibiting the adsorption of NH3. After the modification of Fe, Co, and Ce oxides, the SO2 resistance of the modified Cu–Mn/SAPO-34 catalyst was significantly enhanced due to the less formation of ammonium sulfates. Among all these modified Cu–Mn/SAPO-34 catalysts, the Cu–Mn–Ce/SAPO-34 exhibited the highest SO2 resistance owing to the decreased decomposition temperature and the trapper of ceria for capturing SO2 to form Ce(SO4)2, further inhibiting the deposition of ammonium sulfates.
Understanding Quantitative Circadian Regulations Are Crucial Towards Advancing Chronotherapy
Authors: Chowdhury Debajyoti , Wang Chao , Lu Ai-Ping , Zhu Hai-Long
Published: August 2019

Circadian rhythms have a deep impact on most aspects of physiology. In most organisms, especially mammals, the biological rhythms are maintained by the indigenous circadian clockwork around geophysical time (~24-h). These rhythms originate inside cells. Several core components are interconnected through transcriptional/translational feedback loops to generate molecular oscillations. They are tightly controlled over time. Also, they exert temporal controls over many fundamental physiological activities. This helps in coordinating the body’s internal time with the external environments. The mammalian circadian clockwork is composed of a hierarchy of oscillators, which play roles at molecular, cellular, and higher levels. The master oscillation has been found to be developed at the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus in the brain. It acts as the core pacemaker and drives the transmission of the oscillation signals. These signals are distributed across different peripheral tissues through humoral and neural connections. The synchronization among the master oscillator and tissue-specific oscillators offer overall temporal stability to mammals. Recent technological advancements help us to study the circadian rhythms at dynamic scale and systems level. Here, we outline the current understanding of circadian clockwork in terms of molecular mechanisms and interdisciplinary concepts. We have also focused on the importance of the integrative approach to decode several crucial intricacies. This review indicates the emergence of such a comprehensive approach. It will essentially accelerate the circadian research with more innovative strategies, such as developing evidence-based chronotherapeutics to restore de-synchronized circadian rhythms.
Fatty Acid and Lipopolysaccharide Effect on Beta Cells Proteostasis and its Impact on Insulin Secretion
Authors: Acosta-Montaño Paloma , Rodríguez-Velázquez Eustolia , Ibarra-López Esmeralda , Frayde-Gómez Héctor , Mas-Oliva Jaime , Delgado-Coello Blanca , Rivero Ignacio A. , Alatorre-Meda Manuel , Aguilera Jorge , Guevara-Olaya Lizbeth , García-González Victor
Published: August 2019

Metabolic overload by saturated fatty acids (SFA), which comprises β-cell function, and impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion are frequently observed in patients suffering from obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The increase of intracellular Ca2+ triggers insulin granule release, therefore several mechanisms regulate Ca2+ efflux within the β-cells, among others, the plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA). In this work, we describe that lipotoxicity mediated mainly by the saturated palmitic acid (PA) (16C) is associated with loss of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) and potentially cell viability, a phenomenon that was induced to a lesser extent by stearic (18C), myristic (14C) and lauric (12C) acids. PA was localized on endoplasmic reticulum, activating arms of the unfolded protein response (UPR), as also promoted by lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-endotoxins. In particular, our findings demonstrate an alteration in PMCA1/4 expression caused by PA and LPS which trigger the UPR, affecting not only insulin release and contributing to β-cell mass reduction, but also increasing reactive nitrogen species. Nonetheless, stearic acid (SA) did not show these effects. Remarkably, the proteolytic degradation of PMCA1/4 prompted by PA and LPS was avoided by the action of monounsaturated fatty acids such as oleic and palmitoleic acid. Oleic acid recovered cell viability after treatment with PA/LPS and, more interestingly, relieved endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. While palmitoleic acid improved the insulin release, this fatty acid seems to have more relevant effects upon the expression of regulatory pumps of intracellular Ca2+. Therefore, chain length and unsaturation of fatty acids are determinant cues in proteostasis of β-cells and, consequently, on the regulation of calcium and insulin secretion.
IGFs Potentiate TAC3-induced SLα Expression via Upregulation of TACR3 Expression in Grass Carp Pituitary Cells
Authors: Hu Guangfu , He Mulan , Ko Wendy K. W. , Ye Cheng , Hu Qiongyao , Wong Anderson O. L.
Published: August 2019

In mammals, the tachykinin 3 (TAC3)/tachykinin receptor 3 (TACR3) systems have been confirmed to play an important role in the regulation of puberty onset. Using grass carp pituitary cells as the model, our recent study found that the TAC3 gene products could significantly induce somatolactin α (SLα) synthesis and secretion via TACR3 activation. In the present study, we seek to examine if pituitary TACR3 can serve as a regulatory target and contribute to TAC3 interactions with other SLα regulators. Firstly, grass carp TACR3 was cloned and tissue distribution showed that it could be highly detected in grass carp pituitary. Using HEK293 cells as the model, functional expression also revealed that grass carp TACR3 exhibited ligand binding selectivity and post-receptor signaling highly comparable to its mammalian counterpart. Using grass carp pituitary cells as the model, TACR3 mRNA expression could be stimulated by insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I and -II via the IGF-I receptor coupled to phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Interestingly, IGF-I/-II cotreatment could also significantly enhance TAC3-induced SLα mRNA expression and the potentiating effect was dependent on TACR3 expression and activation of adenylate cyclase (AC)/cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA), phospholipase C (PLC)/inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3)/protein kinase C (PKC), and Ca2+/calmodulin (CaM)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMK-II) cascades. Besides, IGF-I-induced Akt phosphorylation but not MEK, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2), and P38MAPK phosphorylation was notably enhanced by TACR3 activation. These results, as a whole, suggest that the potentiating effect of IGFs on TAC3 gene products-induced SLα mRNA expression was mediated by TACR3 upregulation and functional crosstalk of post-receptor signaling in the pituitary.
Application of Highly Immunocompromised Mice for the Establishment of Patient-Derived Xenograft (PDX) Models
Authors: Okada Seiji , Vaeteewoottacharn Kulthida , Kariya Ryusho
Published: August 2019

Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models are created by engraftment of patient tumor tissues into immunocompetent mice. Since a PDX model retains the characteristics of the primary patient tumor including gene expression profiles and drug responses, it has become the most reliable in vivo human cancer model. The engraftment rate increases with the introduction of Non-obese diabetic Severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID)-based immunocompromised mice, especially the NK-deficient NOD strains NOD/SCID/interleukin-2 receptor gamma chain(IL2Rγ)null (NOG/NSG) and NOD/SCID/Jak3(Janus kinase 3)null (NOJ). Success rates differ with tumor origin: gastrointestinal tumors acquire a higher engraftment rate, while the rate is lower for breast cancers. Subcutaneous transplantation is the most popular method to establish PDX, but some tumors require specific environments, e.g., orthotropic or renal capsule transplantation. Human hormone treatment is necessary to establish hormone-dependent cancers such as prostate and breast cancers. PDX mice with human hematopoietic and immune systems (humanized PDX) are powerful tools for the analysis of tumor–immune system interaction and evaluation of immunotherapy response. A PDX biobank equipped with patients’ clinical data, gene-expression patterns, mutational statuses, tumor tissue architects, and drug responsiveness will be an authoritative resource for developing specific tumor biomarkers for chemotherapeutic predictions, creating individualized therapy, and establishing precise cancer medicine.
Regulation of Glucose Metabolism by NAD+ and ADP-Ribosylation
Authors: Hopp Ann-Katrin , Grüter Patrick , Hottiger Michael O.
Published: August 2019

Cells constantly adapt their metabolic pathways to meet their energy needs and respond to nutrient availability. During the last two decades, it has become increasingly clear that NAD+, a coenzyme in redox reactions, also mediates several ubiquitous cell signaling processes. Protein ADP-ribosylation is a post-translational modification that uses NAD+ as a substrate and is best known as part of the genotoxic stress response. However, there is increasing evidence that NAD+-dependent ADP-ribosylation regulates other cellular processes, including metabolic pathways. In this review, we will describe the compartmentalized regulation of NAD+ biosynthesis, consumption, and regeneration with a particular focus on the role of ADP-ribosylation in the regulation of glucose metabolism in different cellular compartments.
Low Dose of Paclitaxel Combined with XAV939 Attenuates Metastasis, Angiogenesis and Growth in Breast Cancer by Suppressing Wnt Signaling
Authors: Shetti Dattatrya , Zhang Bao , Fan Conghui , Mo Canlong , Lee Bae Hoon , Wei Kun
Published: August 2019

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 15% of overall breast cancer. A lack of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2 receptor) makes TNBC more aggressive and metastatic. Wnt signaling is one of the important pathways in the cellular process; in TNBC it is aberrantly regulated, which leads to the progression and metastasis. In this study, we designed a therapeutic strategy using a combination of a low dose of paclitaxel and a Wnt signaling inhibitor (XAV939), and examined the effect of the paclitaxel-combined XAV939 treatment on diverse breast cancer lines including TNBC cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, and BT549) and ER+ve cell lines (MCF-7 and T-47D). The combination treatment of paclitaxel (20 nM) and XAV939 (10 µM) exerted a comparable therapeutic effect on MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, BT549, MCF-7, and T-47D cell lines, relative to paclitaxel with a high dose (200 nM). The paclitaxel-combined XAV939 treatment induced apoptosis by suppressing Bcl-2 and by increasing the cleavage of caspases-3 and PARP. In addition, the in vivo results of the paclitaxel-combined XAV939 treatment in a mice model with the MDA-MB-231 xenograft further confirmed its therapeutic effect. Furthermore, the paclitaxel-combined XAV939 treatment reduced the expression of β-catenin, a key molecule in the Wnt pathway, which led to suppression of the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and angiogenic proteins both at mRNA and protein levels. The expression level of E-cadherin was raised, which potentially indicates the inhibition of EMT. Importantly, the breast tumor induced by pristane was significantly reduced by the paclitaxel-combined XAV939 treatment. Overall, the paclitaxel-combined XAV939 regimen was found to induce apoptosis and to inhibit Wnt signaling, resulting in the suppression of EMT and angiogenesis. For the first time, we report that our combination approach using a low dose of paclitaxel and XAV939 could be conducive to treating TNBC and an external carcinogen-induced breast cancer.
Influence of Electron Beam Treatment of Co–Cr Alloy on the Growing Mechanism, Surface Topography, and Mechanical Properties of Deposited TiN/TiO2 Coatings
Authors: Valkov Stefan , Parshorov Stoyan , Andreeva Andreana , Bezdushnyi Ruslan , Nikolova Maria , Dechev Dimitar , Ivanov Nikolay , Petrov Peter
Published: August 2019

This study examines the effect of electron beam treatment (EBT) of Co–Cr substrate on the film growth mechanism, mechanical properties, and surface topography of TiN/TiO2 coatings deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering. The obtained results and processes that occurred during the deposition are discussed in the context of crystallographic principles, and special attention is paid to the crystallographic orientation and growth mechanism studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The mechanical properties were investigated by means of nanoindentation and wear tests. The surface topography was evaluated using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results obtained in the present study showed that polycrystalline TiN and anatase TiO2 phases were present in all cases. Electron beam treatment of Co–Cr substrate tended to form a reorientation of the microvolumes from (111) to (200) of TiN, leading to a change in the growth mechanism from three-dimensional (Volmer–Weber) to layer-by-layer (Frank–van der Merwe). It was found that the electron beam treatment process did not significantly affect the thickness of the coatings and the deposition rate. The treatment process led to an increase in surface roughness. The higher surface roughness after the EBT process should be appropriate to support cell growth and adhesion on the surface of the deposited bilayer coating. It was demonstrated that EBT of the substrate caused a decrease in hardness of the deposited coatings from 10 to 5 GPa. The observed decrease in hardness was attributed to the change in the preferred crystallographic orientation and film growth mechanism. The hardness of the bilayer coating after the application of EBT of the Co–Cr substrate was much closer to that of human bones, which means that severe stress shielding effect could not be expected. The evaluated coefficient of friction (COF) exhibited significantly lower values in the case of EBT of the substrate compared to the untreated Co–Cr material.
Comparing Cyclic Tension-Compression Effects on CoCrFeMnNi High-Entropy Alloy and Ni-Based Superalloy
Authors: Lam Tu-Ngoc , Chou You-Shiun , Chang Yao-Jen , Sui Tsung-Ruei , Yeh An-Chou , Harjo Stefanus , Lee Soo Yeol , Jain Jayant , Lai Bo-Hong , Huang E-Wen
Published: August 2019

An equal-molar CoCrFeMnNi, face-centered-cubic (fcc) high-entropy alloy (HEA) and a nickel-based superalloy are studied using in situ neutron diffraction experiments. With continuous measurements, the evolution of diffraction peaks is collected for microscopic lattice strain analyses. Cyclic hardening and softening are found in both metallic systems. However, as obtained from the diffraction-peak-width evolution, the underneath deformation mechanisms are quite different. The CoCrFeMnNi HEA exhibits distinct lattice strain and microstructure responses under tension-compression cyclic loadings.
Asymptotic Behavior of Memristive Circuits
Authors: Caravelli Francesco
Published: August 2019

The interest in memristors has risen due to their possible application both as memory units and as computational devices in combination with CMOS. This is in part due to their nonlinear dynamics, and a strong dependence on the circuit topology. We provide evidence that also purely memristive circuits can be employed for computational purposes. In the present paper we show that a polynomial Lyapunov function in the memory parameters exists for the case of DC controlled memristors. Such a Lyapunov function can be asymptotically approximated with binary variables, and mapped to quadratic combinatorial optimization problems. This also shows a direct parallel between memristive circuits and the Hopfield-Little model. In the case of Erdos-Renyi random circuits, we show numerically that the distribution of the matrix elements of the projectors can be roughly approximated with a Gaussian distribution, and that it scales with the inverse square root of the number of elements. This provides an approximated but direct connection with the physics of disordered system and, in particular, of mean field spin glasses. Using this and the fact that the interaction is controlled by a projector operator on the loop space of the circuit. We estimate the number of stationary points of the approximate Lyapunov function and provide a scaling formula as an upper bound in terms of the circuit topology only.
A Secure and Fast Image Encryption Scheme Based on Double Chaotic S-Boxes
Authors: Zhu Shenli , Wang Guojun , Zhu Congxu
Published: August 2019

In order to improve the security and efficiency of image encryption systems comprehensively, a novel chaotic S-box based image encryption scheme is proposed. Firstly, a new compound chaotic system, Sine-Tent map, is proposed to widen the chaotic range and improve the chaotic performance of 1D discrete chaotic maps. As a result, the new compound chaotic system is more suitable for cryptosystem. Secondly, an efficient and simple method for generating S-boxes is proposed, which can greatly improve the efficiency of S-box production. Thirdly, a novel double S-box based image encryption algorithm is proposed. By introducing equivalent key sequences {r, t} related with image ciphertext, the proposed cryptosystem can resist the four classical types of attacks, which is an advantage over other S-box based encryption schemes. Furthermore, it enhanced the resistance of the system to differential analysis attack by two rounds of forward and backward confusion-diffusion operation with double S-boxes. The simulation results and security analysis verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. The new scheme has obvious efficiency advantages, which means that it has better application potential in real-time image encryption.