bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restoration of an ancestral temple in Guangzhou, China: re-imagining history and traditions through devotion to art and creation
Authors: Ma Ling , Woods Orlando , Zhu Hong
Published: August 2018

Rapid modernization has brought about massive changes in the urban and rural landscapes of China. While many old places and ancient buildings have been pulled down and replaced with more modern alternatives, others have been protected and restored. These include ancient ancestral temples, an important cultural space in China. Previous research has shown how different level governments and rural communities work together to restore ancient temples, but didn’t bring to light artistic and non-government financed and patronized cases of restoration projects. This article adopts a bottom-up perspective to examine a case in Guangzhou how an individual artist transforms an ancient ancestral temple into a new cultural space. Through an ethnographic-style exploration of the practice of restoration, we unfold the interconnections between an individual’s social memory of the past, their love of place, and their enthusiasm for restoration work. Differing from the government’s ‘standardized’ and functionalist restoration of ancestral temples, this case study shows an individual’s emotional and material devotion to transforming a neglected ancestral temple into an eclectic cultural space where the art works are a result of freedom of creative expression.
Identifying Sustainable Population Segments Using a Multi-Domain Questionnaire
Authors: Haan Marieke , Konijn Elly A. , Burgers Christian , Eden Allison , Brugman Britta C. , Verheggen Pieter Paul
Published: August 2018

This study presents the creation of a measurement device to determine and define sustainability attitudes into identifiable sustainability segments. These segments were profiled with behavioral and sociodemographic data. Based on previous literature, key sustainability topics were identified from which a 31-item questionnaire was developed, the Five Factor Sustainability Scale (FFSS). With the FFSS, multiple domains of environmental sustainability can be assessed. We present results validating this measure using a factor–cluster segmentation approach in a nationally representative sample ( N = 508). Five sustainability factors emerged: (1) sustainable spending, (2) sustainable skepticism, (3) sustainable responsibility, (4) sustainable support, and (5) sustainable mobility. A cluster analysis on this sample yielded four segments in which people were grouped according to their sustainable attitudes: (1) Convinced Sustainers, (2) Sustainable Wannabes, (3) Sustainable Non-Believers, and (4) Non-Sustainers. Results linking these segments to behavioral and demographic data show discernable differences between the segments, making the FFSS a valuable tool for future intervention studies aiming at sustainable behavior change.
Availability of Concussion Information in Spanish for Parents of Youth Athletes
Authors: Kroshus Emily , Gonzalez Laura A. , Chrisman Sara P. D. , Jimenez Nathalia
Published: August 2018

All but one U.S. state has passed legislation requiring that concussion information be provided to parents of youth participants in school-sponsored sport. Such information should be accessible and easily understood if it is to be used by parents to make informed decisions regarding their children’s health and safety. Accessing and understanding information about concussion may be challenging for parents who lack fluency in English. The current study sought to describe the extent and nature of Spanish-language concussion information available on the websites of U.S. public high school athletic associations. We also examined information provided by leading youth sports and health organizations as well as the top U.S. children’s hospitals. We sought to quantify the proportion of these websites with Spanish-language translation of concussion education materials and describe the readability, accessibility, and completeness of these translations. Only one quarter of the websites examined contained any concussion information in Spanish, and none of these websites offered a mirrored Spanish-language translation. Spanish information was also difficult to access, with the search process requiring English-language ability. Finally, the readability of the concussion information in both English and Spanish was higher than recommended guidelines. Our findings suggest that non-English-speaking parents may be inadequately informed about concussion because translation of concussion educational materials is absent, incomplete, or hard to access. This raises questions about whether they are able to provide informed consent for their children’s participation in contact sport and suggests the need for improved translation of such informational materials.
Developing inclusive leaders with religious literacy in the workplace
Authors: Burrell Darrell Norman , Rahim Emad
Published: August 2018

There have been several incidents in the United States that point to significant problems with religious intolerance. Public debates and confrontations can have rippling effects beyond the political and public discourse when one considers that these abrasive viewpoints and discussions can represent employee beliefs that can bleed into coworker encounters in the workplace and cause conflict, marginalization, and discrimination as it relates to religion. This paper provides an exploration of the critical need for the development of leaders with knowledge and understanding of the importance of religious literacy and interfaith dialog in the workplace.
An application of optimized Otsu multi-threshold segmentation based on fireworks algorithm in cement SEM image
Authors: Liu Wei , Shi Heng , He Xingyang , Pan Shang , Ye Zhiwei , Wang Yingbin
Published: August 2018

In order to facilitate the study of the structure of cement components, this paper uses image processing technology to achieve multi-threshold segmentation for cement scanning electron microscope image under different conditions and applies an optimized Otsu multi-threshold segmentation based on fireworks algorithm. The method designs fitness function with Otsu multi-threshold segmentation method and searches optimal solution by iteration with the fireworks algorithm. Finally, the search problem of optimization is transformed into a multi-variable solution. The experimental results show that this method can achieve the same result as the classical algorithm and it has better convergence and stability, and the method can be widely used in many fields.
The influence of climate change on waterborne disease and Legionella: a review
Authors: Walker JT
Published: August 2018

Climate change is predicted to have a major impact on people’s lives with the recent extreme weather events and varying abnormal temperature profiles across the world raising concerns. The impacts of global warming are already being observed, from rising sea levels and melting snow and ice to changing weather patterns. Scientists state unequivocally that these trends cannot be explained by natural variability in climate alone. Human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels, have warmed the earth by dramatically increasing concentrations of heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere; as these concentrations increase, the more the earth will warm. Climate change and related extreme weather events are being exacerbated sooner than has previously been considered and are already adversely affecting ecosystems and human health by increasing the burden and type of disease at a local level. Changes to the marine environment and freshwater supplies already affect significant parts of the world’s population and warmer temperatures, especially in more temperate regions, may see an increased spread and transmission of diseases usually associated with warmer climes including, for example, cholera and malaria; these impacts are likely to become more severe in a greater number of countries. This review discusses the impacts of climate change including changes in infectious disease transmission, patterns of waterborne diseases and the likely consequences of climate change due to warmer water, drought, higher rainfall, rising sea levels and flooding.
Imatinib rechallenge in patients with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors following progression with imatinib, sunitinib and regorafenib
Authors: Vincenzi Bruno , Nannini Margherita , Badalamenti Giuseppe , Grignani Giovanni , Fumagalli Elena , Gasperoni Silvia , D’Ambrosio Lorenzo , Incorvaia Lorena , Stellato Marco , Spalato Ceruso Mariella , Napolitano Andrea , Valeri Sergio , Santini Daniele , Tonini Giuseppe , Casali Paolo Giovanni , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Pantaleo Maria Abbondanza
Published: August 2018

Background:

Rechallenge with imatinib is an option in advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients following progression with standard tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs), imatinib, sunitinib and regorafenib. We retrospectively collected data from metastatic Italian GIST patients treated with imatinib resumption after progression to conventional TKIs.

Methods:

A total of 104 eligible advanced GIST patients, previously treated with imatinib, sunitinib and regorafenib, were collected from six referral Italian institutions. Mutational analysis was recorded and correlated with survival and response according to RECIST 1.1 or CHOI criteria.

Results:

Overall, 71 patients treated with imatinib 400 mg as rechallenge were included. Mutational status was available in all patients. The median follow up was 13 months. In patients who received a rechallenge therapy, the median time to progression (TTP) was 5.4 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.9–13.5] and overall survival (OS) was 10.6 months (95% CI 2.8–26.9). A correlation between mutational status, response rate, TTP and OS was not found but comparing deleted versus nondeleted KIT exon 11 patients, a significant difference was identified in terms of TTP and OS ( p = 0.04 and p = 0.02, respectively).

Conclusions:

Our retrospective data confirm that imatinib rechallenge is a reasonable option in advanced GIST. The prognostic value of the specific KIT mutations was confirmed in our series.
School Counselors and Child Abuse Reporting: A National Survey
Authors: Bryant Jill K.
Published: August 2018

A study was done to investigate school counselors’ child abuse reporting behaviors and perceptions regarding the child abuse reporting process. Participants were randomly selected from the American School Counselor Association membership database with 193 school counselors returning questionnaires. Overall, school counselors indicated that they reported the majority of cases suspected, but significant differences in reporting emerged with regard to school level, school setting, and type of abuse reported. Decisional influences and barriers to reporting also were examined. Implications for future research and training are discussed.
Jones Fractures Identified at the National Football League Scouting Combine: Assessment of Prognostic Factors, Computed Tomography Findings, and Initial Career Performance
Authors: Spang Robert C. , Haber Daniel B. , Beaulieu-Jones Brendin R. , Stupay Kristen L. , Sanchez George , Sanchez Anthony , Murphy Colin P. , Whalen James M. , Van Allen Joseph J. , Price Mark D. , Clanton Thomas O. , Provencher Matthew T.
Published: August 2018

Background:

Jones fractures result in subsequent dysfunction and remain an issue for athletes.

Purpose:

To (1) describe the epidemiology, treatment, and impact of Jones fractures identified at the National Football League (NFL) Scouting Combine on players’ early careers and (2) establish the value of computed tomography (CT) to determine bony healing after a fracture in prospective players.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

All players who attended the combine between 2009 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed to identify their history of Jones fractures. The playing position, treatment method, and number of missed collegiate games were recorded. The mean overall draft pick number, number of games started and played, snap percentage, and position-specific performance scores (fantasy score) over the first 2 years in the NFL were compared between players with fractures and controls. An imaging classification system was applied based on grading of each quadrant of the fifth metatarsal (plantar, dorsal, medial, lateral), with a score of 0 for not healed or 1 for healed.

Results:

Overall, the number of Jones fractures identified was 72 in 2285 athletes (3.2%), with all treated via intramedullary screw fixation. The mean overall draft pick number for players with fractures was 111.2 ± 67.9 compared with 99.0 ± 65.9 for controls ( P = .12). Performance scores for players with fractures were lower than those for controls across all positions, with a significant difference in running backs (2.6 vs 4.0, respectively; P < .001) and defensive linemen (1.4 vs 2.3, respectively; P = .02). The mean CT score was 2.5 ± 1.3. Of the 32 athletes who underwent imaging, 16 Jones fractures (50.0%) were healed or nearly healed, 12 (37.5%) were partially healed, and 4 (12.5%) showed little or no healing. The plantar cortex demonstrated the least healing (18/32; 56.3%), followed by the lateral cortex (15/32; 46.9%). Players with a mean score <1 were found to have fewer games started (2.7 ± 2.5) than those with 1 to 3 cortices healed (17.4 ± 10.4) or all cortices healed (8.7 ± 11.2).

Conclusion:

Based on CT, 50% of all players with a previous Jones fracture demonstrated incomplete healing. Moreover, position-specific performance scores over the first 2 years of a player’s career were lower across all positions for those with fractures compared with controls. Players with CT scores <1 were found to start fewer games and were drafted later than controls.
The Association Between Patient Satisfaction and Patient-Reported Health Outcomes
Authors: Chen Qinyu , Beal Eliza W , Okunrintemi Victor , Cerier Emily , Paredes Anghela , Sun Steven , Olsen Griffin , Pawlik Timothy M
Published: August 2018

Objective:

Although patient satisfaction is increasingly used to rate hospitals, it is unclear how patient satisfaction is associated with health outcomes. We sought to define the relationship of self-reported patient satisfaction and health outcomes.

Design:

Retrospective cross-sectional analysis using regression analyses and generalized linear modeling.

Setting:

Utilizing the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Database (2010-2014), patients who had responses to survey questions related to satisfaction were identified.

Participants:

Among the 9166 patients, representing 106 million patients, satisfaction was rated as optimal (28.2%), average (61.1%), and poor (10.7%). Main Outcome Measures: We sought to define the relationship of self-reported patient satisfaction and health outcomes.

Results:

Patients who were younger, male, black/African American, with Medicaid insurance, as well as patients with lower socioeconomic status were more likely to report poor satisfaction (all P < .001). In the adjusted model, physical health score was not associated with an increased odds of poor satisfaction (1.42 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.88-2.28); however, patients with a poor mental health score or ≥2 emergency department visits were more likely to report poor overall satisfaction (3.91, 95% CI: 2.34-6.5; 2.24, 95% CI: 1.48-3.38, respectively).

Conclusion:

Poor satisfaction was associated with certain unmodifiable patient-level characteristics, as well as mental health scores. These data suggest that patient satisfaction is a complex metric that can be affected by more than provider performance.
Post-trial access to treatment: How managed access programs could be a solution
Authors: Lewis Kieron
Published: August 2018

The rising cost of clinical development, coupled with the ethical obligation to ensure that patients exiting a clinical trial are able to remain on active treatment if necessary, has led some pharmaceutical and bio-pharmaceutical companies to review their trial protocols and consider alternative options. The traditional open-label extension or phase IV trial is appropriate in some instances, as is a post-trial supply program using the legislation available for unlicensed medicines in the many countries around the world. This article looks at some of the key considerations and how many companies are adopting different supply models.
Causation of permanent brachial plexus injuries to the anterior arm after shoulder dystocia – Literature review
Authors: Draycott Tim , Kubiak Kerstin , Arthur Endurance , Crofts Joanna
Published: August 2018

Not all neonatal brachial plexus injuries should be deemed the fault of the accoucheur. However, there is a small (<10%) subset of neonatal brachial plexus injuries that are related to excessive traction by the accoucheur: permanent injuries to the anterior arm after SD. The position regarding posterior injuries remains predominantly the same; if the injury is to the posterior shoulder, the injury is likely to have been caused by maternal propulsion against the sacral promontory before the foetal head is delivered, rather than excessive and inappropriate traction. However, there is no reliable evidence that a combination of maternal propulsion and diagnostic traction alone causes significant and permanent injury to the anterior shoulder after shoulder dystocia. This was recognised in Deith vs. Lanarkshire where the judge found: that where there is a severe injury to an anterior arm after SD, excessive traction is overwhelmingly likely to be the cause.
Myeloma escape after stem cell transplantation is a consequence of T-cell exhaustion and is prevented by TIGIT blockade
Authors: Minnie Simone A. , Kuns Rachel D. , Gartlan Kate H. , Zhang Ping , Wilkinson Andrew N. , Samson Luke , Guillerey Camille , Engwerda Christian , MacDonald Kelli P. A. , Smyth Mark J. , Markey Kate A. , Vuckovic Slavica , Hill Geoffrey R.
Published: August 2018

Key Points

Myeloma promotes CD8+ T-cell exhaustion and IL-10 secretion from dendritic cells. PD-1 and TIGIT-targeted checkpoint inhibition is effective after SCT.
Biology and management of primary effusion lymphoma
Authors: Shimada Kazuyuki , Hayakawa Fumihiko , Kiyoi Hitoshi
Published: August 2018

Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is a rare B-cell malignancy that most often occurs in immunocompromised patients, such as HIV-infected individuals and patients receiving organ transplantation. The main characteristic of PEL is neoplastic effusions in body cavities without detectable tumor masses. The onset of the disease is associated with latent infection of human herpes virus 8/Kaposi sarcoma–associated herpes virus, and the normal counterpart of tumor cells is B cells with plasmablastic differentiation. A condition of immunodeficiency and a usual absence of CD20 expression lead to the expectation of the lack of efficacy of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody; clinical outcomes of the disease remain extremely poor, with an overall survival at 1 year of ∼30%. Although recent progress in antiretroviral therapy has improved outcomes of HIV-infected patients, its benefit is still limited in patients with PEL. Furthermore, the usual high expression of programmed death ligand 1 in tumor cells, one of the most important immune-checkpoint molecules, results in the immune escape of tumor cells from the host immune defense, which could be the underlying mechanism of poor treatment efficacy. Molecular-targeted therapies for the activating pathways in PEL, including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT, have emerged to treat this intractable disease. A combination of immunological recovery from immune deficiency, overcoming the immune escape, and the development of more effective drugs will be vital for improving the outcomes of PEL patients in the future.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: SP1-induced lncRNA AGAP2-AS1 expression promotes chemoresistance of breast cancer by epigenetic regulation of MyD88
Authors: Dong Huaying , Wang Wei , Mo Shaowei , Chen Ru , Zou Kejian , Han Jing , Zhang Fan , Hu Jianguo
Published: August 2018

Background

Resistance to trastuzumab has become a leading cause of mortality in breast cancer patients and is one of the major obstacles for improving the clinical outcome. Cell behavior can be modulated by long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), but the contribution of lncRNAs in trastuzumab resistance to breast cancer is largely unknown. To this end, the involvement and regulatory function of lncRNA AGAP2-AS1 in human breast cancer are yet to be investigated.

Methods

Trastuzumab-resistant SKBR-3 and BT474 cells were obtained by continuous culture with 5 mg/mL trastuzumab for 6 months. RT-qPCR assay was used to determine the expression of AGAP2-AS1 in tissues and cells. RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to investigate the subcellular location of AGAP2-AS1 in breast cancer cells. Bioinformatic analysis, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), western blotting, and immunofluorescence were carried out to verify the regulatory interaction of AGAP2-AS1, CREB-binding protein (CBP), and MyD88. In addition, a series of in vitro assays and a xenograft tumor model were used to analyze the functions of AGAP2-AS1 in breast cancer cells.

Results

AGAP2-AS1 was upregulated and transcriptionally induced by SP1 in breast cancer. Overexpression of AGAP2-AS1 promoted cell growth, suppressed apoptosis, and caused trastuzumab resistance, whereas knockdown of AGAP2-AS1 showed an opposite effect. MyD88 was identified as a downstream target of AGAP2-AS1 and mediated the AGAP2-AS1-induced oncogenic effects. Mechanistically, the RIP assay revealed that AGAP2-AS1 could bind to CBP, a transcriptional co-activator. ChIP assays showed that AGAP2-AS1-bound CBP increased the enrichment of H3K27ac at the promoter region of MyD88, thus resulting in the upregulation of MyD88. Gain- and loss-of-function assays confirmed that the NF-κB pathway was activated by MyD88 and AGAP2-AS1. Furthermore, high AGAP2-AS1 expression was associated with poor clinical response to trastuzumab therapy in breast cancer patients.

Conclusion

AGAP2-AS1 could promote breast cancer growth and trastuzumab resistance by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway and upregulating MyD88 expression. Therefore, AGAP2-AS1 may serve as a novel biomarker for prognosis and act as a therapeutic target for the trastuzumab treatment.
Palpable Breast Lump Triage by Minimally Trained Operators in Mexico Using Computer-Assisted Diagnosis and Low-Cost Ultrasound
Authors: Love Susan M. , Berg Wendie A. , Podilchuk Christine , López Aldrete Ana Lilia , Gaxiola Mascareño Aarón Patricio , Pathicherikollamparambil Krishnamohan , Sankarasubramanian Ananth , Eshraghi Leah , Mammone Richard
Published: August 2018

Purpose

In low- to middle-income countries (LMICs), most breast cancers present as palpable lumps; however, most palpable lumps are benign. We have developed artificial intelligence–based computer-assisted diagnosis (CADx) for an existing low-cost portable ultrasound system to triage which lumps need further evaluation and which are clearly benign. This pilot study was conducted to demonstrate that this approach can be successfully used by minimally trained health care workers in an LMIC country.

Patients and Methods

We recruited and trained three nonradiologist health care workers to participate in an institutional review board–approved, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act–compliant pilot study in Jalisco, Mexico, to determine whether they could use portable ultrasound (GE Vscan Dual Probe) to acquire images of palpable breast lumps of adequate quality for accurate computer analysis. Images from 32 women with 32 breast masses were then analyzed with a triage-CADx system, generating an output of benign or suspicious (biopsy recommended). Triage-CADx outputs were compared with radiologist readings.

Results

The nonradiologists were able to acquire adequate images. Triage by the CADx software was as accurate as assessment by specialist radiologists, with two (100%) of two cancers considered suspicious and 30 (100%) of 30 benign lesions classified as benign.

Conclusion

A portable ultrasound system with CADx software can be successfully used by first-level health care workers to triage palpable breast lumps. These results open up the possibility of implementing practical, cost-effective triage of palpable breast lumps, ensuring that scarce resources can be dedicated to suspicious lesions requiring further workup.
One month of hyperglycemia alters spectral responses of the zebrafish photopic electroretinogram
Authors: Tanvir Zaid , Nelson Ralph F. , DeCicco-Skinner Kathleen , Connaughton Victoria P.
Published: August 2018

Prolonged hyperglycemia can alter retinal function, ultimately resulting in blindness. Adult zebrafish adults exposed to alternating conditions of 2% glucose/0% glucose display a 3× increase in blood sugar levels. After 4 weeks of treatment, electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded from isolated, perfused, in vitro eyecups. Control animals were exposed to alternating 2% mannitol/0% mannitol (osmotic control) or to alternating water (0% glucose/0% glucose; handling control). Two types of ERGs were recorded: (1) native ERGs measured using white-light stimuli and medium without synaptic blockers; and (2) spectral ERGs measured with an AMPA/kainate receptor antagonist, isolating photoreceptor-to-ON-bipolar-cell synapses, and a spectral protocol that separated red (R), green (G), blue (B) and UV cone signals. Retinas were evaluated for changes in layer thickness and for the inflammatory markers GFAP and Nf-κB (RelA or p65). In native ERGs, hyperglycemic b- and d-waves were lower in amplitude than the b- and d-waves of mannitol controls. Alteration of waveshape became severe, with b-waves becoming more transient and ERG responses showing more PIII-like (a-wave) characteristics. For spectral ERGs, waveshape appeared similar in all treatment groups. However, a1- and b2-wave implicit times were significantly longer, and amplitudes were significantly reduced, in response to hyperglycemic treatment, owing to the functional reduction in signals from R, G and B cones. Nf-κB increased significantly in hyperglycemic retinas, but the increase in GFAP was not significant and retinal layer thickness was unaffected. Thus, prolonged hyperglycemia triggers an inflammatory response and functional deficits localized to specific cone types, indicating the rapid onset of neural complications in the zebrafish model of diabetic retinopathy.
Extraction of Urinary Metabolite-Derived Biomarker Candidate for Breast Cancer
Authors: Sakairi Minoru , Abe Mayumi , Tanaka Naoki
Published: August 2018

Urine is more than 90% water, and can contain more than 3000 metabolites. Consequently, extraction of biomarker candidates from urine for measuring subtle fluctuations in the quantities of metabolites in healthy individuals and cancer patients is very difficult. A variety of technologies, such as liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), for analysis of urinary metabolites and identification of substances that show fluctuations in cancer patients compared with healthy individuals was used for this purpose. The substances detected by LC/MS were evaluated using machine learning, multivariate analysis to reduce and visualize parameters, and mass spectrometry for structural estimation of metabolites with unknown structures. One of the important biomarker candidates for breast cancer was determined to be 2-amino-4-methyl-1,1-pentanediol by an MS/MS spectrum. A one-dimensional linear discriminant analysis shows that this compound is estimated to be a promising biomarker for breast cancer. Urinary metabolites are found to be biomarkers for breast cancer.
The Effects of Essential Oils and Organic Acids on Microbiological and Physicochemical Properties of Whole Shrimps at Refrigerated Storage
Authors: NORHANA MD NOORDIN WAN , SHUNMUGAM NANNTHINI , HUDA NURUL , ADZITEY FREDERICK
Published: August 2018

The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of Essential Oils (EOs) and Organic Acids (OAs) on microbiological and physicochemical qualities of whole shrimps stored at 4°C. Shrimps of 1.1 kg were dipped in solutions of Eos (cinnamon oil, garlic oil and lime oil) and Organic Acids (lactic acid, tartaric acid and sodium diacetate) at 1:2 shrimp/treatment solution (w/w) at 25ºC for 30min. Concentration of sodium metabisulfite and distilled water (DH2O) were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Shrimps were drip-dried for 5 minutes, packaged and stored in a chiller (4°C) for 10 days. They were analyzed for microbiological (Total Aerobic Plate Count) and physicochemical (pH, colour and texture) properties at days 0, 2, 5, 7 and 10. Total Aerobic Plate Count (TPC) of shrimps decreased immediately after dipping in solutions containing EOs, OAs and their mixture ratios. However, the TPC of shrimps continued to increase during storage and at day 10, TPC was significantly (P<0.05) higher compared to other days. Mixtures of tartaric acid and cinnamon oil was the best in controlling TPC in shrimps. pH of shrimps ranged from 6.60 to 7.86. Most of the treatments had significantly lower pH compared to DH2O treated shrimp. L* values (Lightness), a* values (Redness) and b* values (Yellowness) ranged from 32.57-42.27, -1.90-4.39 and 3.14-10.67, respectively. The texture (hardness value) of the shrimps ranged from 1135.4-2511.8 and decreased throughout storage period except solutions of lactic acid and lime. Storage of shrimps in EOs and organic acids can serve as an alternative for the preservation of shrimps other than low temperature storage.
Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia L) Fruit Decreased Blood Glucose Level and Improved Lipid Profile of Streptozotocin Induced Hyperglycemia Rats
Authors: Rohajatien Ummi , Harijono Harijono , Estiasih Teti , Sriwahyuni Endang
Published: August 2018

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia, L) is a fruit that traditionally believe has benefits on health. The objective of this study is to identify bitter melon bioactive and nutritional compounds, and their effect on blood glucose level and lipid profile of streptozotocin induced hyperglycemia rats. Rats were divided into three group, those were normal group; hyperglycemia group without bitter melon fruit feeding; and hyperglycemia group with bitter melon fruit administration. Hyperglycemia condition was achieved by STZ induction. The experiment was conducted for 4 weeks. The results showed that fresh bitter melon fruit contains β-sitosterol 348.16+1.66 ppm, stigmasterol 183.08+0.8 ppm, campesterol 130.79+0.4 ppm, diosgenin 16.42+0.06 ppm, soluble dietary fiber 2.99+0.07%, insoluble dietary fiber 0.55+0.01%, and pectin 1.41+0.05%. At week 4 of experiment, bitter melon fruit fed hyperglycemia group showed a decrease of 56% blood glucose level compared to blood glucose level at week 0. Body weight of this group also increased. The improvement of lipid profile of bitter melon fed group was indicated by decreasing blood total cholesterol of 49%, triglyceride of 35%, LDL cholesterol of 42%, and increasing HDL of 133% compared to initial level at week 0. Bitter melon also increased fecal cholesterol secretion and effectively inhibited cholesterol absorption in hyperglycemia rats. Bitter melon fruit is suggested for hyperglycemia management due to its ability to reduce glucose and improve lipid profile simultaneously.
A Critical Review on Advances in the Multicomponent Synthesis of Pyrroles
Authors: Azad Iqbal , Hassan Firoj , `Saquib Mohammad , Ahmad Naseem , Rahman Khan Abdul , G.Al-Sehemi Abdillah , Nasibullah Malik
Published: August 2018

Nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds are biologically significant molecules. This is especially true for pyrrole a five membered nitrogen containing aromatic molecule, which is present as a key structural motif in a large number of drugs and lead molecules. This review aims to provide an overview of the multi-component reaction (MCR) based methodologies used for the synthesis of pyrrole and its derivatives, focusing particularly on eco-friendly methods that avoid the use of hazardous reagents, solvents and catalysts are deemed especially relevant to the disciplines of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery.
Novel Green Hydrogel Material using Bacterial Cellulose
Authors: Chaiyasat Amorn , Jearanai Sirinard , Moonmangmee Somporn , Moonmangmee Duangtip , P Christopher Lew , Nur Alam Md , Chaiyasat Preeyaporn
Published: August 2018

The green bacterial cellulose (BC)-based hydrogel materials have successfully prepared by modification and crosslink BC. BC was derived from acetic acid bacteria isolated and selected from ripe fruits. The production of BC was performed by fermentation in various media. It was found that using liquid potato medium represented the highest thickness of BC film (0.80 cm) with 2 wt% solid content covered the media. To reduce the crystallization of BC, carboxyl group was introduced onto BC chains using a carboxymethylation reaction giving carboxymethyl BC (CMBC) and subsequently crosslinked with divinyl sulfone (DVS). The extent of crosslinking influenced on the swelling properties of the hydrogels. Using large DVS amounts (>30 wt%-of CMBC), dense macromolecular network with less capacity spaces in the hydrogel was formed. The maximum water retention value of green hydrogels containing ~3.0 mmol carboxyl groups/g CMBC reached 27 (g/g).
THE USE OF THE ANALYTIC HIERARCHY PROCESS FOR ADMISSION TO AN AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL DEPARTMENT
Authors: Özdemir Mustafa , Sağır Özdemir Müjgan
Published: August 2018

Meeting the need for qualified staff in the field of air traffic control depends primarily on selection of appropriate candidates among many applicants. The selection of competent air traffic controllers, who play a vital role in the air traffic system, is of critical importance and is usually conducted through multi-stage examinations. It is also important to use correct methods in the selection process in order to identify the most suitable candidates. In particular, the application of subjective examinations, such as interviews in a standard way, and determination and standardization of criteria can assist in selecting the right candidates. Within this context, the student selection process in an air traffic control department is investigated, with the aim of supporting the interview examination through the Analytic Hierarchy Process. The criteria weighting is determined by expert opinion. Thirty-nine candidates are ranked according to the AHP, with the current and proposed rankings being compared. As a result, the ranking has changed significantly with the proposed approach.
EXTENDED CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS FOR PAIRWISE COMPARISON METHOD
Authors: Koyun Yılmaz Sahika , Ozkir Vildan
Published: August 2018

Pairwise comparison (PC) is a widely used scientific technique to compare criteria or alternatives in pairs in order to express the decision maker’s judgments without the need for a unique common measurement unit between criteria. The method constructs a PC matrix by requesting the assessments of the decision maker(s) in the judgment acquisition phase and calculates an inconsistency measure to determine whether the judgments are adequately consistent with each other before subsequent phases. Although the method requires the decision maker to make all judgments in a PC matrix, it does not force him/her to make a judgment for each element of the matrix. If any judgment in a PC matrix is absent, for this reason, the judgment acquisition phase yields an incomplete PC matrix rather than a complete one. Missing judgments are calculated by multiplication of the judgments made by the decision maker. If the judgements of the decision maker are transitive and well-proportioned, missing judgments will not disturb the consistency of the resulting PC matrix. In other words, consistency of a PC matrix relies on the judgments made by the decision maker. Since the current consistency analysis procedure is designed for complete PC matrices, the suitability for evaluating the inconsistency of incomplete PC matrices is questionable. Probability density functions of random PC matrices with altering numbers of missing judgments show distinct features, indicating an incomplete PC matrix and a complete PC matrix do not come from the same probability function, and their mean consistency index (RI) is different. Consequently, we propose an extended consistency analysis procedure to evaluate the consistency of incomplete PC matrices.
The growth performances and the gut health parameters of Sentul chickens supplemented with various dosage of turmeric powder
Authors: ASMARA INDRAWATI Y. , WIDJASTUTI TUTI , SETIAWAN IWAN , ABUN ABUN , PARTASASMITA RUHYAT
Published: August 2018

Asmara IY, Widjastuti T, Setiawan I, Abun, Partasasmita P. 2018. The growth performances and the gut health parameters of Sentul chickens supplemented with various dosage of turmeric powder. Nusantara Bioscience 10: 121-125. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different levels of turmeric powder (0, 1, 2, 3 g/kg) on production performance and the number of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in the intestine of Sentul chickens. The results showed that addition of 3 g/kg of turmeric powder to diet significantly reduced feed intake (FI) and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) of Sentul Chickens aged 9-16 weeks. The birds fed with control diet had the highest number of S. aureus and E. coli, while the birds fed with the diets added with 2 and 3 g/kg turmeric powder had the lowest number of bacteria. The study reveals that increasing levels of turmeric powder in diets had positive effects on bird’s performance and the number of intestinal bacteria. It can be concluded that a level of 3 g/kg turmeric powder in diets gave the best result due to significantly improved FCR.
Male gametophyte development steps in Pistacia vera L.
Authors: SADEGHIRAD ELAHE , MAJD AHMAD , IRANBAKHSH ALIREZA , JAVANSHAH AMANOLLAH
Published: August 2018

Sadeghirad E, Majd A, Iranbakhsh A, Javanshah A. 2018. Male gametophyte development steps in Pistacia vera L. Nusantara Bioscience 10: 151-158. Salinity affects the growth and development of plant. It also affects the development steps of male gametophyte in pistachio plant. Pistachio (Pistachio vera) is a member of family Anacardiaceae and order Sapindales. To study the effects of salinity on those steps, an experiment was performed in two locations in Golshan Anar with commensurate circumstances, namely: a control area (A) which was well-irrigated with fresh water, and the other area (B) which was well-irrigated with salty water added with NaCl solution with EC values of 14 dS.m-1. The flowers sampling was done in two Golshan Anar regions on the springtime based on a completely randomized design with three replications. The development steps of male gametophyte in pistachio plant were observed using conventional cell histology techniques and light microscopy observations and were then contrasted with samples subjected to no salinity stress. The results represented that several steps of male gametophyte development are as follows: (1) the anther experiencing normal growth which is tetrasporangiate, (2) cytokinesis taking place simultaneously with meiosis in the microspore mother cell, the tetrahedral tetrads, (3) microspores being delivered after meiosis by microsporogenesis were more or less irregular in shape during the contraction period. Finally, the abnormal shape and structure of the number of cases reviewed in three replicates of pollens can be one of the significant factors influencing the decline in the product.
Antibacterial potency of simple fractions of ethyl acetate extract of Begonia baliensis
Authors: SIREGAR HARTUTININGSIH-M. , PURWANTORO R. S. , PRAPTIWI PRAPTIWI , AGUSTA A.
Published: August 2018

Siregar HM, Purwantoro RS, Praptiwi, Agusta A. 2018. Antibacterial potency of simple fractions of ethyl acetate extract of Begonia baliensis. Nusantara Bioscience 10: 159-163. Balinese people utilized Begonia baliensis Girm. (Begoniaceae) as traditional medicine to relieve cough. It was applied in a unique way by inserting the plant material into a bamboo column and then burning it in the fire. The liquid produced by the combustion process was used as a cough medicine. Based on this traditional knowledge, it is expected that B. Baliensis has antibacterial activity. B. baliensis plant collected from Bukit Sangyang, Penebel, Tabanan-Bali has been used in this study. The chemical compounds of ethyl acetate extracts were isolated/ separated by column chromatography. The obtained fractions were analyzed for antibacterial activity by disc diffusion assay against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus. Chromatographic column yielded 14 simple fractions, whereas antibacterial test results showed 5 active fractions. Fraction 3 (F3) was active against S. epidermidis, fraction 5 (F5) against E. coli and S. epidermidis, while fractions 10, 11 and 12 were active only against Bacillus subtilis. Isolation and purification of the active components likely increased their potential as antibacterials.
Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of ginger extract and SNEDDS with eel fish bone oil (Anguilla spp.)
Authors: WIJAYANTI IMAS IFRIAN , BUDIHARJO AGUNG , PANGASTUTI ARTINI , PRIHAPSARA FEA , ARTANTI ANIF NUR
Published: August 2018

Wijayanti II, Budiharjo A, Pangastuti A, Prihapsara F, Artanti AN. 2018. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of ginger extract and SNEDDS with eel fish bone oil (Anguilla spp.). Nusantara Bioscience 10: 164-169. Aims of this study were to measure phenolic content of ginger (Zingiber officinale) and to observe the comparison of antioxidant activity between pure ginger extract and ginger extract in SNEDDS (Self Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System) with bone of eel fish oil (Anguilla spp.) as a conductor. Analysis was done based on IC50 value using DPPH (2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method and activity of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) in vivo using Adrenochrome Assay. Determination of total phenolic content of ginger extract was measured by UV/Vis Spectrophotometric using Folin-Ciocalteau reagents then the absorbances were measured at wavelength 756 nm. Calculation of IC50 DPPH of the ginger extract and SNEDDS were measured using spectrophotometer UV/Vis at 517 nm wavelength. Measurements of SOD was based on the ability of SOD inhibit spontaneous auto reduction of epinephrine using Adrenochrome Assay at 12 male Wistar rats that divided into 4 treatment groups with 3 replicates for each group. Total phenolic content of ginger extract from 3 replications were 4,8519 ± 0,037 µg/mL equivalent with gallic acid standard solutions (GAE) or 485,1847 ± 3,7045 mgGAE/100 g dry weight. Antioxidant scavenging activity by DPPH assay of ginger was higher than SNEDDS. IC50 of ginger was 385.4 mg/mL, and IC50 of SNEDDS was 428.4 mg/mL. The result of descriptive analysis of Kruskal Wallis of SOD activity assay indicated significant differences between treatment groups (P = 0.001 (P <0.05)). SOD activity test performed in vivo showed that ginger extract made into SNEDDS system with eel fish oil used as the conductor has a significant influence compared with ginger extract group.
The potential of agroforestry as an adaptation strategy to mitigate the impacts of climate change: A case study of Kiine Community, Kenya
Authors: NYARUAI MUNENE ANNE , MUSINGI JOHN K. , WAMBUA BONIFACE N.
Published: August 2018

Nyaruai MA, Musingi JK, Wambua BN. 2018. The potential of agroforestry as an adaptation strategy to mitigate the impacts of climate change: A case study of Kiine Community, Kenya. Nusantara Bioscience 10: 170-177. This study has a purpose of evaluating the agroforestry potent as a conformation policy to the effects of climate change in the location of the study. One hundred farmers were used as study sample in collecting data with stratified sampling technique. To achieve data from individual farmers, both arranged and disarranged questionnaires were used. The study utilized questionnaires and observation timetable to collect data from individual farmers associated with the study objectives. The study found out that more preferable practices in agroforestry were planting the trees and shrubs as windbreakers, riparian forest buffers, silvopasture, and boundary planting while the less preferable practices were forest farming, alley cropping, and woodlots. It also found that the coaching to identify both indigenous and exotic agroforestry tree species is needed. In particular, 94% and 90% of the respondents got a feeling that the coaching on agroforestry practices and incorporation of exotic species is needed very much. The reason is that the feeling felt by respondents could give contribution to shortening the prolonged production time of trees on farm. On the contrary, 90% of the respondents are confident that agroforestry can increase catchment yield in rivers and streams, ameliorate the micro-climate, increase wood production as well as increase livestock health and products. The result showed that agroforestry has a direct link in increasing subsistence of people in the study area. Food (fruits), fodder, fuelwood, medicinal substances, gums, tannins, essential oils, fibers and waxes are the examples of agroforestry products sold by the surrounding farmers. The money will be used to provide second-tier facilities such as paying the tuition for their children or even getting healthcare facilities. The result shows that agroforestry is a method in agricultural production which can decrease the effects of human activities and climate change on the local environment. Agroforestry can increase the endurance of agricultural outturn to contemporary climate variance as well as prolonged climate change by means of the utilization of trees for intensification, diversification and supporting of farming systems.
Influence of NAA and coconut water with variation of soaking duration on the growth of yellow bamboo branch cutting
Authors: SETIAWATI TIA , KELIAT AGINTA PUTRI REHULINA , BUDIONO RULY , PARTASASMITA RUHYAT , ISKANDAR JOHAN
Published: August 2018

Setiawati T, Keliat APR, Budiono R, Partasasmita R, Iskandar J. 2018. Influence of NAA and coconut water with variation of soaking duration on the growth of yellow bamboo branch cutting. Nusantara Bioscience 10: 178-182. Yellow bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris Schrad Ex. var. Striata) is one kind of bamboo used for industrial and household raw materials. Yellow bamboo propagation with branch cuttings has relatively low percentage of growth. To increase the growing success of yellow bamboo branch cuttings can be used growth regulators substance, such as NAA and coconut water. This study aimed to obtain the best combination of NAA and coconut water with the soaking duration in the growth of yellow bamboo branch cuttings. The study was conducted using Completely Randomized Design (CRD) of 6 × 3 factorial arrangement with five replications. The first factor was the combination of NAA and coconut water (CW), which consisted of six levels, namely 100% CW, 20% NAA + 80% CW, 40% NAA + 60% CW, 60% NAA + 40% CW, 80% NAA + 20% CW and 100% NAA. The second factor was the soaking duration which consists of three levels, namely 12 h, 24 h, and 36 h. Parameters observed included shoot emerging time, shoot number, shoot length, leaf area, root number and root length. The data obtained were analyzed using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) α=5%. The results showed that the combination of 80% NAA + 20% CW gave the best yellow bamboo branch cuttings growth with an average shoot length of 1.44 cm, leaf area 41.29 cm2, root number 42.87 and root length 23.70 cm. The interaction of 80% NAA + 20% CW with soaking duration of 36 h resulted in average the fastest shoot emerging time of 2.02 days after planting.