bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leveraging Blockchain Technology to Enhance Supply Chain Management in Healthcare:
Authors: Clauson Kevin A. , Breeden Elizabeth A. , Davidson Cameron , Mackey Timothy K.
Published: March 2018

Background: Effective supply chain management is a challenge in every sector, but in healthcare there is added complexity and risk as a compromised supply chain in healthcare can directly impact patient safety and health outcomes. One potential solution for improving security, integrity, data provenance, and functionality of the health supply chain is blockchain technology.

Objectives: Provide an overview of the opportunities and challenges associated with blockchain adoption and deployment for the health supply chain, with a focus on the pharmaceutical supply, medical device and supplies, Internet of Healthy Things (IoHT), and public health sectors.

Methods: A narrative review was conducted of the academic literature, grey literature, and industry publications, in addition to identifying and characterizing select stakeholders engaged in exploring blockchain solutions for the health supply chain.

Results: Critical challenges in protecting the integrity of the health supply chain appear well suited for adoption of blockchain technology. Use cases are emerging, including using blockchain to combat counterfeit medicines, securing medical devices, optimizing functionality of IoHT, and improving the public health supply chain. Despite these clear opportunities, most blockchain initiatives remain in proof-of-concept or pilot phase.

Conclusion: Blockchain technology has the unrealized promise to help improve the health supply chain, but further study, evaluation and alignment with policy mechanisms is needed.

Keywords: Blockchain, Distributed Ledger, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical, Supply chain
Pragmatic, Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology: Paving the Future for Healthcare
Authors: Ribitzky Ron , St. Clair James , Houlding David I , McFarlane Chrissa T , Ahier Brian , Gould Michael , Flannery Heather L , Pupo Erik , Clauson Kevin A
Published: March 2018

Background: Blockchain and distributed ledger technology is a disruptive force in healthcare. Methods: This article provides a globally relevant, interdisciplinary perspective intended to aid disparate group of actors, participants, and users that represent the diverse stakeholders of an increasingly complex and technologically reliant healthcare system. Domain expertise reinforced by literature published via industry, technical, and academic venues was used to inform these perspectives. Results: Key characteristics of blockchain and distributed ledger technology are highlighted and framed for a readership ranging from healthcare executive to policy makers to researchers. Antecedent application of blockchain in the financial sector is explored followed by the technical, security, and interoperability considerations specific to healthcare. Conclusion: Blockchain remains an emerging technology both fraught with unanticipated challenges and the promise of unrealized potential in healthcare.

Keywords: Blockchain, Healthcare, Innovation, Adoption, Global, Interoperability
Pengenalan Bahasa Arab Melalui Nyanyian Pada Anak Usia Prasekolah di TK Terpadu Ihyaul Ulum Puncu Kediri Jawa Timur
Authors: Khoiruddin Mohammad
Published: March 2018

Tujuan kegiatan adalah untuk memperkenalkan bahasa Arab melalui nyanyian pada anak usia dini di TK Terpadu Ihyaul Ulum Gadungan Kecamatan Puncu Kediri, dan mengetahui proses belajar mengajar bahasa Arab melalui nyanyian. Prosesnya kegiatan dilakukan dengan menggunakan beberapa metode seperti bernyanyi sambil bermain dan bernyanyi dengan menggunakan gerakan serta bernyanyi dengan menggunakan media pembelajaran. Kesimpulan dari kegiatan ini adalah ; (1) Melalui nyanyian dengan metode bermain yaitu menyanyi dengan gerakan, maka anak-anak usia pra sekolah dapat dengan mudah mengenal kosakata-kosakata bahasa Arab, (2) Anak-anak usia TK memiliki minat yang tinggi dalam mengenal bahasa Arab. Hal ini dapat dilihat dari antusias anak-anak ketika menyanyikan nyanyian-nyanyian berbahasa Arab yang diajarkan, dan (3) Isi nyanyian pendek dan bahasa yang digunakan mudah sehingga siswa dengan mudah mencerna dan mengucapkan kosakata bahasa Arab
Analisis Kelayakan Finansial Pengembangan Sistem Irigasi Cakram Otomatis Bertenaga Surya di Nusa Tenggara Barat
Authors: Rejekiningrum Popi , Saptomo Satyanto Krido
Published: March 2018

Penelitian implementasi teknologi irigasi hemat air menggunakan sistem irigasi otomatis yang berbentuk emiter melingkar(cakram/cincin) bertenaga surya telah dilakukan. Untuk mengetahui kelayakan investasi pembuatan sistem irigasi cakram otomatis bertenaga surya, dilakukan analisis Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Interest (IRR), dan Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR). Suatu investasi dikatakan layak bila memenuhi kriteria sebagai berikut: (1) NPV lebih besar dari nol, (2) IRR lebih besar dari discount rate yang sedang berlaku, (3) BCR lebih besar dari 1. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa sistem irigasi cakram otomatis bertenaga surya untuk pengembangan komoditas mangga, srikaya, anggur, dan cabe sangat layak untuk dilaksanakan, dengan nilai NPV dari investasi berkisar antara Rp 1.533.423,00 – Rp 21.995.452, nilai BCR antara 1,34 - 3,78, dan nilai IRR antara 17,38% - 34,10%. Implementasi sistem irigasi cakram otomatis bertenaga surya dengan pengembangan srikaya dan mangga paling layak dikembangkan di Pringgabaya dengan nilai NPV, BCR, dan IRR paling tinggi. Sedangkan implementasi irigasi cakram otomatis dengan hanya mengembangkan cabe tidak layak secara finansial karena nilai NPV < 0, nilai BCR < 1, dan nilai IRR < suku bunga 14%. Investasi pembuatan irigasi otomatis dengan sistem cakram rata-rata kembali modal pada tahun ke-4 hal ini tercermin dari nilai payback period (periode kembali modal).
Uji Proporsionalitas Debit Bangunan Bagi Tipe Numbak
Authors: Hidayah Susi , Suhardjono - , Dermawan Very
Published: March 2018

Bangunan bagi merupakan sarana pendistribusian air yang utama dan menjadi bagian penting pada sistem operasi jaringan irigasi. Bentuk bangunan bagi tipe numbak meletakkan bangunan bagi sekunder, sadap tersier dan bangunan pengatur pada posisi sejajar arah aliran. Penggunaan bangunan bagi tipe numbak ini telah direkomendasikan oleh Direktorat Irigasi dan Rawa dalam Kriteria Perencanaan Irigasi 04 (revisi 2013), namun informasi untuk perencanaannya masih belum memadai. Penempatan ambang pada bangunan bagi proporsional telah diuji oleh Balai Irigasi, Pusat litbang Sumber Daya Air, Kementerian Pekerjaan Umum dan Perumahan Rakyat. Penempatan ambang sebelum pilar pembagi menghasilkan aliran yang terbagi sudah tidak berada pada kondisi kritis sehingga diduga aliran yang terbagi juga tidak menjadi proporsional. Rangkaian pengujian dengan mengkaji variasi penempatan ambang terhadap posisi pilar pembagi dilakukan pada model fisik yang sudah dibuat yaitu pada tipe proporsi 1:2:1. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa rerata proporsi pembagian debit pada semua skenario untuk saluran kanan, tengah, dan kiri masing-masing adalah 0,82:2,4:0,78. Rekomendasi penggunaan dan penempatan ambang terhadap pilar pembagi sebagai bahan masukan perencanaan bangunan bagi tipe ini juga didapatkan pada penelitian ini.
Bendung Bertangga sebagai Alternatif pada Perencanaan Bangunan Irigasi
Authors: Krisnayanti Denik Sri , Dermawan Very , Solichin M. , Suhardjono Suhardjono , Khaerudin Dian Noorvy
Published: March 2018

Bendung bertangga merupakan modifikasi dari profil standar untuk bendung tipe ogee. Aliran yang  melimpas pada bendung bertangga diklasifikasikan menjadi tiga tipe, yaitu aliran bebas, aliran transisi dan aliran tenggelam. Aliran tenggelam ini lebih banyak digunakan dalam perencanaan bendung dikarenakan hampir semua pengoperasian bendung adalah untuk perhitungan debit besar.  Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji dan mengetahui keunggulan bendung bertangga dengan melakukan variasi perlakuan model meliputi sudut kemiringan, jumlah anak tangga dan nilai bilangan Froude. Penelitian ini dilakukan pengujian terhadap dua model tipe bendung yakni bendung ogee dan bendung bertangga pada kondisi aliran tenggelam. Untuk variasi sudut kemiringan pelimpah (θ) yang digunakan 30˚ dan 45˚, jumlah anak tangga (N) 40 dan 20 serta  kedalaman kritis terhadap tinggi tangga (yc/h) berkisar 0,70 < yc/h < 3,00.  Model penelitian ini menggunakan bilangan Froude (Fr) < 10. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa faktor gesekan Darcy Weisbach (f) untuk bendung bertangga adalah 0,311 yang mempengaruhi terhadap nilai kehilangan energi. Kadar oksigen terlarut pada aliran bendung bertangga meningkat sebesar 2,011% - 2,846%. Sedangkan nilai kehilangan energi relatif (∆E1/E0) pada bendung bertangga adalah 86,129%  dan bendung ogee adalah 72,466%. Peningkatan nilai kehilangan energi relatif akan mempengaruhi terhadap panjang kolam olak di hilir bendung
Analisis Konsumsi Air Sayuran Organik dalam Rumah Tanaman
Authors: Dewi Vita Ayu Kusuma , Setiawan Budi Indra , Waspodo Roh Santoso Budi
Published: March 2018

Sayuran organik yang dibudidayakan di rumah tanaman memerlukan pengaturan pemberian air irigasi untuk mempertahankan kadar air tanah berdasarkan fase tumbuh tanaman. Salah satu kendala dalam pemberian irigasi adalah tidak adanya parameter yang digunakan untuk menentukan jadwal  dan jumlah  air irigasi yang diberikan. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan untuk mengetahui apakah pelaksanaan irigasi  yang digunakan di lahan penelitian dapat memenuhi kebutuhan air tanaman serta jumlah konsumsi airnya berdasarkan pendekatan perubahan kadar air. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan pengamatan kelembaban tanah setiap hari dan menganalisis aliran air tanah berdasarkan parameter sifat  fisik dan hidrolika tanah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kadar air tanah berada diantara kapasitas lapang dan titik layu permanen namun  87% dari masa tanam  berada dibawah nilai readily avaiable water (RAW). Kondisi ini menunjukkan pemberian air irigasi pada lahan penelitian masih belum sepenuhnya optimal. Berdasarkan analisis perubahan kadar air tanah, konsumsi air selama masa tanam sayuran kailan  di lahan penelitian adalah 55 mm selama masa tanam dengan laju konsumsi air 1,1 mm/hari. Kebutuhan air di lahan penelitian untuk mencapai kondisi RAW adalah 130  mm.
Evaluasi Ketepatan Pemberian Air Menggunakan Sistem Manajemen Operasi Irigasi (SMOI) di Daerah Irigasi Bondoyudo
Authors: Rahmandani Dadan , Irianto Eko Winar , Sofiyuddin Hanhan Ahmad , Hidayah Susi , Hadihardaja Iwan , Soentoro Edy Anto
Published: March 2018

Sistem Manajemen Operasi Irigasi (SMOI) adalah sistem informasi pelaporan operasi irigasi yang didesain untuk melakukan pengiriman data dan blangko operasi irigasi secara otomatis dengan memanfaatkan jaringan internet. SMOI dapat mempersingkat waktu pelaporan dan mempermudah evaluasi data historis dalam menunjang pengambilan keputusan di suatu Daerah Irigasi (DI). Namun demikian, teknologi ini belum teruji pada aplikasi skala lapangan terutama di DI lintas kabupaten. Penelitian bertujuan untuk menganalisis ketepatan perhitungan SMOI dan ketepatan pemberian air sebagai dampak dari aplikasi SMOI.Penelitian dilakukan pada pengaplikasian SMOI di DI Bondoyudo, Jawa Timur. Analisis ketepatan perhitungan dilakukan dengan memverifikasi dan memvalidasi hasil perhitungan SMOI dibandingkan hasil perhitungan blangko manual.Analisis ketepatan pemberian air dilakukan melalui simulasi neraca air berdasarkan data pada Musim Tanam (MT) I dan II tahun 2016/2017. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, alur kerja perhitungan, pengambilan data, dan alur distribusi data antar blangko operasi irigasi pada SMOI sesuai dengan ketentuan dalam Permen PUPR 12/PRT/M/2015. Hasil simulasi menunjukkan bahwa SMOI dapat meningkatkan akurasi pemberian air terhadap prediksi kebutuhan air irigasi sebesar 40,7% pada MT I dan 21,8% pada MT II. Namun demikian apabila dibandingkan dengan kebutuhan air irigasi aktual, SMOI belum terlihat meningkatkan akurasi pemberian air. Hal ini disebabkan perhitungan kebutuhan air pada blangko manual dan SMOI belum mengakomodir variabilitas kondisi klimatologi aktual.
Lapisan Kedap Buatan untuk Memperkecil Perkolasi Lahan Sawah Tadah Hujan dalam Mendukung Irigasi Hemat Air
Authors: Sapei Asep , Fauzan Muhammad
Published: March 2018

Peningkatan Efisiensi irigasi dapat dilakukan pada saat penyaluran (conveyance), distribusi maupun aplikasi. Kehilangan air dalam bentuk evaporasi, bocoran, rembesan, perkolasi maupun air yang terbuang perlu ditekan sekecil mungkin. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengkaji perkolasi lahan sawah yang dilengkapi dengan lapisan kedap buatan dalam kerangka irigasi hemat air dan peningkatan efisiensi. Lapisan kedap dibuat dengan cara memadatkan lapisan tanah di bawah lapisan olah dengan menggunakan soil stamper dan baby roller. Ketebalan lapisan kedap diperoleh sekitar 14 cm dan kekerasan maksimumnya berkisar antara 9.41 kg/cm2 – 13.28 kg/cm2. Besar perkolasi diperoleh berkisar antara 7.9 sampai 21.3 cm/hari. Perkolasi yang relative lebih kecil diperoleh dari lahan yang dipadatkan dengan baby roller. Tetapi perkolasi yang diperoleh ini masih terlalu besar untuk lahan sawah yang hanya sekitar 4 mm/hari. Hal ini mungkin disebabkan oleh kondisi tanah dari lahan tersebut yang mempunyai perkolasi sangat tinggi (508.8 cm/hari).
Model of Drip Irrigation Network with Local Material Based for Agricultural Small Land
Authors: Ridwan Dadang
Published: March 2018

Adanya penurunan luas kepemilikan lahan, model jaringan irigasi tetes berbasis bahan lokal diharapkan menjadi teknologi tepat guna bagi petani khususnya untuk optimalisasi pemanfaatan lahan sempit untuk pertanian. Tujuan penelitian adalah mengembangkan model jaringan irigasi tetes berbasis bahan lokal, dengan biaya investasi murah, penerapan mudah dan mempunyai kinerja baik. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan metode ekperimen meliputi pembuatan model, pengujian kinerja dan uji coba penerapan langsung pada tanaman. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Laboratorium Outdoor Balai Irigasi. Berdasarkan hasil kajian model jaringan ini mempunyai kinerja baik dengan nilai keseragaman tetesan 85,88%, dan jauh lebih murah sekitar 56,70%, dari irigasi tetes berbahan standar pabrikan. Penerapan model jaringan irigasi ini layak, dan potensial untuk lahan pertanian sempit kurang dari 1000 m2, dengan pola operasi irigasi secara bergiliran per masing-masing blok irigasinya.
Serum heavy metal levels in teenagers currently or formerly employed as gas station attendants
Authors: Iyanda Ayobola Abolape
Published: March 2018

Background: Reports are available indicating that leaded gasoline is still being made available in some parts of the world. Moreover it is also known that the crude from which petroleum products are obtained is rich in heavy metals. This means heavy metal toxicity from petrol contact is a possibility. The aim of this study is to assess selected heavy metal levels in teenagers who are currently and formerly employed as GSA.Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of teenagers divided into 3 groups. GROUP I was made up of 30 male subjects that are currently employed as GSA with less than 6 months work history; GROUP II composed of 34 male teenagers with work history in gas station not less than 20 months; GROUP III consisted of 22 male teenagers who were former attendants; the control group consisted of 35 participants, with no history of occupational exposure to fuel, or heavy metals. Information was obtained through questionnaire on demography, life-style and clinical symptoms of gasoline exposure. Serum heavy metal levels were estimated using atomic absorption spectrometry. Student’s t test and analysis of variance were employed to determine the level of significant difference. P < 0.05 was considered significant.Results and Discussion: The serum levels of lead, arsenic, nickel, cadmium, and aluminium of GSA in GROUPS I and II were significantly higher compared with control. On the other hand, there were significant increases in levels of lead and cadmium in GROUP III compared with control. Additionally, majority of test subjects in GROUPS I and II identified headache and fatigue as symptoms associated with workplace. Teenage GSA are prone to heavy metal toxicity and discontinuing contact with gas station environment did not resolve this occupational hazard.Conclusion: Gonadotoxic effect of some of these elements on these categories of subjects who are within reproductive stage is possible. Therefore appropriate measure should be taken to address it.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.17(2) 2018 p.224-229
Extract Ethanol of Poguntano in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Widjaja Sry Suryani , Rusdiana -
Published: March 2018

Back Ground: Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disease with high blood glucose level above 150 mg/dL over a prolonged period. The elevated of blood glucose, free fatty acid and insulin resistance will cause the endothelial dysfunction, hemostasis disturbances that lead to micro and macrovascular complications. Poguntano (Picria fel-terrae Merr) from family Scrophulariaceae found in most part of Indonesia, has been used as traditional plant for treatment of diabetes.Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of extract ethanol of Poguntano in alloxan induced diabetic rats.Method: Fifteen male Wistar rats with body weight of 150-200 gr were given intra peritoneal injection of 150 mg/kg Alloxan to induce diabetes. These were divided into three groups (control diabetic, group given insulin and group given Extract ethanol of Poguntano 200 mg/Kg body weight) and one control normal control. The duration of study was 4 weeks; blood glucose and Endothelin-1 were measured for all groups.Results : Extract ethanol of Poguntano 200 mg showed significant results (p<0.001) in lowering blood glucose in Alloxan induced diabetic rats compared to control diabetic, but did not show superior to insulin group (p=0.892). Endothelin-1 showed statistical significant between group with normal rats and diabetic control rats. (p=0.009) but did not in the other groups. Levels of Endothelin-1 was higher in the diabetic control group with the median 1.95 (1,78- 3.1).Conclusion: In our study we found that extract ethanol of Poguntano showed significant hypoglycemic activity and lowering the Endothelin-1 level in alloxan induced diabetic rats.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.17(2) 2018 p.251-254
A perceptual evaluation of resonance disorders in children with repaired unilateral cleft lip and palate in Hospital UniversitiSains Malaysia
Authors: Zulkipli Aimi Syahidah , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Patel Evina Suriakant , Haque Sanjida
Published: March 2018

Background: In most literature regarding speech outcomes in children with repaired cleft lip and palate (CLP), exhibited resonance disorders despite having surgical repair. However, the types and severity of the resonance disorders vary from one individual to another. Thus, perceptual evaluation is important to determine the speech outcomes in individuals with repaired cleft lip and palate.Aim: The aim of this cross sectional study was to determine the types and severity of resonance disorders of children with repaired unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) and describe the inter- and intra-rater reliability of perceptual evaluation of resonance disorders using GOS. SP.PASS’98. Four children with repaired UCLP in Hospital USM with ages ranging from 8 years old to 12 years old was included in this study. During data collection, history taking was first conducted, then participants’ speech sample was collected and lastly oral motor examination was conducted.Results: 50% of the speech sample was then duplicated for inter- and intraexaminer reliability investigations. Exact agreement and kappa values were used for reliability measures. Seventy five percent (75%) (3/4) participants exhibited hypernasality as the type of resonance disorder and 25% (1/4) participant had no evidence of hypernasality or any other types of resonance disorder. No other types of resonance disorders such as hyponasality, mixed resonance or cul-de-saq was noted in the participants. The severity of hypernasality ranged from mild to severe in the participants. Inter-rater reliability showed fair to almost perfect agreement and intra-rater reliability revealed almost perfect agreement.Conclusion: The results obtained from this study was more or less similar to our other studies conducted on the speech outcome of individuals with repaired UCLP. Although surgical intervention has been provided to these individuals, it is important that referrals be made to SLPs to evaluate their speech outcomes. This is to determine a proper management for the individual.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.17(2) 2018 p.282-289
Dexamethasone added to Bupivacaine prolongs the duration of analgesia for supraclavicular brachial plexus block
Authors: Hoq Naimul , Maruf Abdullah Al
Published: March 2018

Background: Local anaesthetics alone for supraclavicular brachial plexus block provide good operative conditions but have shorter duration of postoperative analgesia. Numerous adjuncts have been added to enhance the efficacy of the block. Steroids have anti-inflammatory as well as analgesic effects.Objectives: This study has been undertaken with a view to find out the efficacy of dexamethasone to increase the duration of analgesia when used as an adjuvant to bupivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block in upper extremity surgery.Methods: Total 60 patients of ASA I and II undergoing upper extremity surgery under brachial plexus block were randomly divided into two equal groups of 30 each; Bupivacaine group-‘’A’’ received 0.5% bupivacaine 2 mg/kg with distilled water 15 ml and Dexamethasone group-‘’B’’ received 0.5% bupivacaine 2 mg/kg with dexamethasone (0.2mg/kg) with distilled water 15 ml. The duration of analgesia in the two groups were compared.Results: There was markedly prolonged duration of analgesia in dexamethasone group. The mean duration of analgesia in bupivacaine group was 455 ± 17.09 minutes, whereas in dexamethasone group it was 864.50 ± 25.19 minutes. The results were statistically highly significant.Conclusion: Dexamethasone when added to bupivacaine in brachial plexus block it results significantly prolonged duration of post-operative analgesia, which was significantly higher in comparison to bupivacaine when it is used alone.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.17(2) 2018 p.296-301
Operationalizing Principle-Based Standards for Animal Welfare—Indicators for Climate Problems in Pig Houses
Authors: Vermeer Herman , Hopster Hans
Published: March 2018

The Dutch animal welfare law includes so-called principle-based standards. This means that the objective is described in abstract terms, enabling farmers to comply with the law in their own way. Principle-based standards are, however, difficult for the inspection agency to enforce because strict limits are missing. This pilot project aimed at developing indicators (measurements) to assess the climate in pig houses, thus enabling the enforcement of principle-based standards. In total, 64 farms with weaners and 32 farms with growing–finishing pigs were visited. On each farm, a set of climate-related measurements was collected in six pens. For each of these measurements, a threshold value was set, and exceeding this threshold indicated a welfare risk. Farm inspections were carried out during winter and spring, thus excluding situations with heat stress. Assessment of the variation and correlation between measurements reduced the dataset from 39 to 12 measurements. Using a principal components analysis helped to select five major measurements as warning signals. The number of exceeded thresholds per pen and per farm was calculated for both the large (12) and small (five) sets of measurements. CO2 and NH3 concentrations were related to the outside temperature. On colder days, there was less ventilation, and thus CO2 and NH3 concentrations increased. Air quality, reflected in the CO2 and NH3 concentrations, was associated with respiratory problems. Eye scores were positively correlated with both pig and pen fouling, and pig and pen fouling were closely related. We selected five signal indicators: CO2, NH3, and tail and eye score for weaners and finishers, and added ear score for weaners and pig fouling for growing–finishing pigs. The results indicate that pig farms can be ranked based on five signal indicators related to reduced animal welfare caused by climatic conditions. This approach could be adopted to other principle-based standards for pigs as well as for other species.
A Load-Shedding Model Based on Sensitivity Analysis in on-Line Power System Operation Risk Assessment
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Yang Hang , Yin Xianggen , Han Jiexiang , Wang Yong , Chen Guoyan
Published: March 2018

The traditional load-shedding models usually use global optimization to get the load-shedding region, which will cause multiple variables, huge computing scale and other problems. This makes it hard to meet the requirements of timeliness in on-line power system operation risk assessment. In order to solve the problems of the present load-shedding models, a load-shedding model based on sensitivity analysis is proposed in this manuscript. By calculating the sensitivity of each branch on each bus, the collection of buses which have remarkable influence on reducing the power flow on over-load branches is obtained. In this way, global optimization is turned to local optimization, which can narrow the solution range. By comprehensively considering the importance of load bus and adjacency principle regarding the electrical coupling relationship, a load-shedding model is established to get the minimum value of the load reduction from different kinds of load buses, which is solved by the primal dual interior point algorithm. In the end, different cases on the IEEE 24-bus, IEEE 300-bus and other multi-node systems are simulated. The correctness and effectiveness of the proposed load-shedding model are demonstrated by the simulation results.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Nutritional Requirements in New Fish Species under Culture
Authors: Moyano Francisco
Published: March 2018

The worldwide interest in developing the culture of nonconventional fish species determines the need to increase knowledge in different aspects of their basic physiology, as well as in the application of such information into practical protocols to be used in their feeding, reproduction, and general handling [...]
How Long Are Cancer Patients Waiting for Oncological Therapy in Poland?
Authors: Osowiecka Karolina , Rucinska Monika , Nowakowski Jacek , Nawrocki Sergiusz
Published: March 2018

Background: The five-year relative survival rate in Poland is approximately 10% lower compared with the average for Europe. One of the factors that may contribute to the inferior treatment results in Poland could be the long time between cancer suspicion and the beginning of treatment. The aim of the study was to determine the real waiting time for cancer diagnosis and treatment in Poland. Methods: The study was carried out in six cancer centers on a group of 1373 patients, using a questionnaire to interview patients. The median waiting time was estimated as follows: (A) from suspicion (the date of the first visit, with symptoms, to a doctor or a preventive or screening test) until histopathological diagnosis; (B) from suspicion until initial treatment; and (C) from diagnosis until initial treatment. Results: The median times from suspicion to treatment, from suspicion to diagnosis, and from diagnosis to treatment, were 10.6, 5.6, and 5.0 weeks, respectively. Using multivariate analysis, the strongest influence was estimated, in a case of tumor localization, to be the method of initial treatment and facilities. Conclusion: The waiting time for cancer treatment in Poland is too long. The highest influence on waiting time was determined, in the case of tumors, as the type of cancer and factors related to the health care system.
Mortality and Morbidity during Extreme Heat Events and Prevalence of Outdoor Work: An Analysis of Community-Level Data from Los Angeles County, California
Authors: Riley Kevin , Wilhalme Holly , Delp Linda , Eisenman David
Published: March 2018

Heat is a well-recognized hazard for workers in many outdoor settings, yet few investigations have compared the prevalence of outdoor work at the community level and rates of heat-related mortality and morbidity. This analysis examines whether heat-related health outcomes occur more frequently in communities with higher proportions of residents working in construction, agriculture, and other outdoor industries. Using 2005–2010 data from Los Angeles County, California, we analyze associations between community-level rates of deaths, emergency department (ED) visits, and hospitalizations during summer heat events and the prevalence of outdoor work. We find generally higher rates of heat-related ED visits and hospitalizations during summer heat events in communities with more residents working outdoors. Specifically, each percentage increase in residents working in construction resulted in an 8.1 percent increase in heat-related ED visits and a 7.9 percent increase in heat-related hospitalizations, while each percentage increase in residents working in agriculture and related sectors resulted in a 10.9 percent increase in heat-related ED visits. The findings suggest that outdoor work may significantly influence the overall burden of heat-related morbidity at the community level. Public health professionals and healthcare providers should recognize work and employment as significant heat risk factors when preparing for and responding to extreme heat events.
Roles of Chloroplast Retrograde Signals and Ion Transport in Plant Drought Tolerance
Authors: Zhao Chenchen , Haigh Anthony , Holford Paul , Chen Zhong-Hua
Published: March 2018

Worldwide, drought affects crop yields; therefore, understanding plants’ strategies to adapt to drought is critical. Chloroplasts are key regulators of plant responses, and signals from chloroplasts also regulate nuclear gene expression during drought. However, the interactions between chloroplast-initiated retrograde signals and ion channels under stress are still not clear. In this review, we summarise the retrograde signals that participate in regulating plant stress tolerance. We compare chloroplastic transporters that modulate retrograde signalling through retrograde biosynthesis or as critical components in retrograde signalling. We also discuss the roles of important plasma membrane and tonoplast ion transporters that are involved in regulating stomatal movement. We propose how retrograde signals interact with ion transporters under stress.
Protective Effects of Gomisin N against Hepatic Cannabinoid Type 1 Receptor-Induced Insulin Resistance and Gluconeogenesis
Authors: Nagappan Arulkumar , Jung Dae , Kim Ji-Hyun , Jung Myeong
Published: March 2018

Activation of the hepatic cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) induces insulin resistance and gluconeogenesis via endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, thereby contributing to hyperglycemia. Gomisin N (GN) is a phytochemical derived from Schisandra chinensis. In the current study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of GN on hepatic CB1R-mediated insulin resistance and gluconeogenesis in 2-arachidonoylglycerol (AG; an agonist of CB1R)-treated HepG2 cells and in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. Treatment with 2-AG induced the expression of ER stress markers, serine/threonine phosphatase PHLPP1, Lipin1, and ceramide synthesis genes, but reduced the expression of ceramide degradation genes in HepG2 cells. However, GN reversed 2-AG-mediated effects and improved the 2-AG-mediated impairment of insulin signaling. Furthermore, GN inhibited 2-AG-induced intracellular triglyceride accumulation and glucose production in HepG2 cells by downregulation of lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis genes, respectively. In vivo, GN administration to HFD obese mice reduced the HFD-induced increase in fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, which was accompanied with downregulation of HFD-induced expression of CB1R, ER stress markers, ceramide synthesis gene, and gluconeogenesis genes in the livers of HFD obese mice. These findings demonstrate that GN protects against hepatic CB1-mediated impairment of insulin signaling and gluconeogenesis, thereby contributing to the amelioration of hyperglycemia.
Synthesis of Magnesium Nickel Boride Aggregates via Borohydride Autogenous Pressure
Authors: Shahbazi Mahboobeh , Cathey Henrietta , Mackinnon Ian
Published: March 2018

We demonstrate synthesis of the ternary intermetallic MgNi3B2 using autogenous pressure from the reaction of NaBH4 with Mg and Ni metal powder. The decomposition of NaBH4 to H2 and B2H6 commences at low temperatures in the presence of Mg and/or Ni and promotes formation of Ni-borides and MgNi3B2 with the increase in temperature. MgNi3B2 aggregates with Ni-boride cores are formed when the reaction temperature is >670 °C and autogenous pressure is >1.7 MPa. Morphologies and microstructures suggest that solid–gas and liquid–gas reactions are dominant mechanisms and that Ni-borides form at a lower temperature than MgNi3B2. Magnetic measurements of the core-shell MgNi3B2 aggregates are consistent with ferromagnetic behaviour in contrast to stoichiometric MgNi3B2 which is diamagnetic at room temperature.
Preparation of Hierarchical Highly Ordered Porous Films of Brominated Poly(phenylene oxide) and Hydrophilic SiO2/C Membrane via the Breath Figure Method
Authors: Yuan Hua , Yu Bing , Cong Hailin , Chi Ming , Cheng Yuanzhe , Lv Chunxin
Published: March 2018

Porous permeable films materials have very broad prospects in the treatment of sludge-containing waste water due to their large surface area and good microfiltration. In this work, highly ordered porous membranes have been prepared successfully on ice substrates using a poly(phenylene oxide) (BPPO)-SiO2 nanoparticle (NP) mixture by the brePorous permeable films materials have very broad prospects in the treatment of sludge-containing waste water due to their large surface area and good microfiltration. In this work, highly ordered porous membranes have been prepared successfully on ice substrates using aath figure method. Based on the theory of Pickering emulsion system and capillary flow, particle assisted membrane formation was analyzed. Another two sorts of new membranes SiO2/C membrane and hierarchical porous polymer (HPP) membrane, which were obtained by modification of the BPPO-SiO2 membrane by calcination and etching, were set up in a further study. Their properties were investigated through the methods of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), ultraviolet spectrum (UV), capillary electrophoresis (CE), contact angle, and water flux tests. All these results demonstrate that both surface hydrophilicity and fouling resistance of the membrane would be improved by using SiO2 as a filler. The membranes with high permeability and antifouling properties were used for microfiltration applications.
Reduction Characteristics of Carbon-Containing REE–Nb–Fe Ore Pellets
Authors: Zhang Bo , Fan Yong , Liu Chengjun , Ye Yun , Jiang Maofa
Published: March 2018

To separate and recover the valuable metals from low-grade REE (rare earth elements)–Nb–Fe ore in China, the reduction characteristics of carbon-containing REE–Nb–Fe ore pellets, including mineral phase variation, reduction degree, and reaction kinetics, were observed based on thermogravimetry experiments. The results showed that the reduction and separation efficiency of valuable metals in the carbon-containing pellets were superior to the ones in the previous non-compact mixture. After the reduction roasting of the pellets at 1100 °C and a subsequent magnetic separation, the iron powder with a grade of 91.7 wt % was separated, and in magnetic separation tailings the grades of Nb2O5 and (REE)O were beneficiated to approximately twice the grades in the REE–Nb–Fe ore. The reaction rate of the reduction of the carbon-containing pellets was jointly controlled by the carbon gasification reaction and the diffusion of CO in the product layer with an activation energy of 139.26–152.40 kJ·mol−1. Corresponding measures were proposed to further improve the kinetics condition.
Modeling and Experimental Study of Ore-Carbon Briquette Reduction under CO–CO2 Atmosphere
Authors: Tang Huiqing , Yun Zhiwei , Fu Xiufeng , Du Shen
Published: March 2018

Iron ore-carbon briquette is often used as the feed material in the production of sponge iron via coal-based direct reduction processes. In this article, an experimental and simulation study on the reduction behavior of a briquette that is made by hematite and devolatilized biochar fines under CO–CO2 atmosphere was carried out. The reaction model was validated against the corresponding experimental measurements and observations. Modeling predictions and experimental results indicated that the CO–CO2 atmosphere significantly influences the final reduction degree of the briquette. Increasing the reduction temperature did not increase the final reduction degree but was shown to increase the carbon that was consumed by the oxidative atmosphere. The influence of the CO–CO2 atmosphere on the briquette reduction behavior was found to be insignificant in the early stage but became considerable in the later stage; near the time of the briquette reaching its maximum reduction degree, both iron oxide reduction and metallic iron re-oxidation were able to occur.
Friction Stir Welding of Non-Heat-Treatable High-Strength Alloy 5083-O
Authors: Nakamura Takashi , Obikawa Toshiyuki , Nishizaki Itaru , Enomoto Masatoshi , Fang Zhenglong
Published: March 2018

5083 aluminum alloy is increasingly used because of its excellent corrosion resistance, high work-hardening rate, and strength. In order to improve its weldability and feasibility, material behavior, material flow, and defects induced while friction stir welding 5083 should be studied. In this study, they were investigated by thermo-structural analysis. The flow stress of 5083-O has a high rate of sensitivity among high temperatures and wide strain rate ranges. Therefore, the details of the mechanical properties of 5083-O at high temperatures and wide strain rate ranges were investigated to obtain reasonable analysis results using a precise flow stress model. The tool/workpiece interface temperature during FSW is critical for accurate analysis results. This study used special equipment to measure tool temperature in order to investigate the interface temperatures precisely, and then the obtained data were used for optimization and verification of the thermal boundary conditions for analysis modeling. Using the developed model, the material behavior and material flow during FSW of 5083-O were analyzed. The tool and workpiece interface temperatures, flow stresses, strain rates, and velocities were investigated with the cylinder and threaded probes in detail. One of the analysis results indicated that the material flow rate on the rear side of a probe directly affected defect generation while joining.
U-Pb Geochronology and Geochemistry of U-Rich Garnet from the Giant Beiya Gold-Polymetallic Deposit in SW China: Constraints on Skarn Mineralization Process
Authors: Fu Yu , Sun Xiaoming , Li Dengfeng , Lin Hai
Published: March 2018

The giant Beiya Au skarn deposit (over 300 tonnes Au metal reserve) is located in the middle part of the Jinshajiang-Ailaoshan alkaline porphyry metallogenic belt. The deposit is the largest Au skarn deposit and third largest Au deposit in China. In this paper, we present garnet U-Pb ages and trace element geochemical data from two types of skarn-related U-rich garnet from Beiya, and discuss their implications on skarn metallogenesis. Based on optical characteristics and major element compositions, the older Grt I and the younger Grt II (both belong to the grossular-andradite solid solution) are distinguishable: Grt II (Adr69.0Grs26.8–Adr93.5Grs1.5) is slightly richer in Fe than Grt I (Adr68.5Grs20.3–Adr86.3Grs3.4), with the average FeO contents being 25.0% and 24.5%, respectively. LA-ICP-MS garnet U-Pb dating yielded lower intercept ages of 35.8 ± 0.8 Ma (MSWD = 0.9, n = 20) and 34.0 ± 2.1 Ma (MSWD = 1.2, n = 16), respectively. These ages represent the timing of the garnet crystallization, and are consistent with published alteration ages within error, which suggests that the technique presented provides a reliable alternative in dating skarn alteration. Grt I has higher U content and lower Th/U ratio than Grt II, indicating a lower oxygen fugacity for the earlier skarn alteration. Grt II shows weak (or no) Eu anomaly and lower LREE/HREE ratios than those of Grt I, which indicates that Grt I and Grt II may have formed under a mildly acidic and nearly neutral condition, respectively. From the early prograde skarn (Grt I) to late prograde skarn (Grt II) stage, the ore-forming fluids may have changed from a relatively reduced acidic to a relatively oxidized neutral pH condition.
The Content of Toxic Metals in Agricultural Produce near a Coal Mine: Case Study KCB in Lazarevac, Serbia
Authors: Koprivica Ana , Beljić Čedomir , Vakanjac Boris , Ristić Vakanjac Vesna , Čokorilo Ilić Marina
Published: March 2018

The monitoring and analysis of concentrations of toxic metals (lead and cadmium) in soils and crops indicate that farmland in Serbia is generally not polluted, and the quality of soils is naturally good. Such soils are therefore suitable for organic farming. All noted instances of contamination by toxic metals are of a local nature only, and the result of fertilizers and pesticides, municipal waste, exhaust gases, nearby production facilities, smelting plants, mines, tailings ponds, etc. Locations of this type need to be monitored regularly, and the status of the soil and crops assessed. The results presented in this paper place special emphasis on lead and cadmium. In this regard, the sampling of 67 plant foodstuffs that are being grown in Baroševac village, located in the immediate vicinity of the Kolubara coal mine, was carried out. Fruit samples represented 14.9% and vegetable samples 85.1% of the total sample. The heavy metal content (lead/cadmium) in seven samples was above the limits prescribed by the Regulations. Overall exposure of the adult population of Baroševac, calculated on the basis of all samples (67 in total), was 0.89 µg lead per kg of body weight per week, representing only 3.5% provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI), and 0.46 cadmium per kg of body weight, which amounts to 6.7% PTWI. Both values point to the fact that the risk is low, even in the case of populations with high exposure to these toxic metals. This suggests that sustainable development may be possible in the near future.
Recent Developments in Vinylsulfonium and Vinylsulfoxonium Salt Chemistry
Authors: Mondal Mukulesh , Chen Shi , Kerrigan Nessan
Published: March 2018

This review describes advances in the literature since 2000 in the area of reactions of vinylsulfonium and vinylsulfoxonium salts, with a particular emphasis on stereoselective examples. Although the chemistry of vinylsulfonium salts was first explored back in the 1950s, and that of vinylsulfoxonium salts in the early 1970s, there has been renewed interest in these compounds since the turn of the century. This has been largely due to an increased appreciation for the many synthetic possibilities associated with these valuable electrophiles. The development of improved routes to vinylsulfonium salts allowing for their in situ generation has played a part in accelerating their study. In general, reactions of the two sulfur salt classes follow a similar mechanistic pathway: initial conjugate addition of a nucleophile to the β-position, followed by protonation of an ylide intermediate, and cyclization of tethered anion to afford monocyclic or bicyclic product (e.g., cyclopropane, aziridine, oxazole, oxazolidinone, γ-lactam or γ-lactone). Alternatively, reactions involve formation of an ylide intermediate followed by intramolecular Johnson-Corey-Chaykovsky reaction (epoxidation or cyclopropanation), and subsequent cyclization to afford the desired bicyclic product (e.g., fused bicyclic epoxide or cyclopropane).
Identification, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of a FMRFamide-Like Peptide Gene in the Common Chinese Cuttlefish (Sepiella japonica)
Authors: Li Ying , Cao Zihao , Li Haifeng , Liu Huihui , Lü Zhenming , Chi Changfeng
Published: March 2018

The peptide FMRFamide is one of the well-known peptides involved in multiple physiological processes in the phylum Mollusca. In this study, a FMRFamide gene (GenBank accession No. KJ933411) was identified in a cuttlefish species called Sepiella japonica and was designated as SjFMRFamide. The total length of the SjFMRFamide sequence was found to be 1880 bp while the open reading frame contained 996 bp encoding a protein of 331 amino acid residues with a predicted isoelectric point (pI) and molecular weight (MW) of 9.18 and 38.8 kDa along with a 333 bp 5′-untranslated region (UTR) and 551 bp 3′-UTR. The deduced SjFMRFamide precursor protein contains one signal peptide and expresses four kinds FMRFamide-related peptides including a single copy of FLRFamide, ALSGDAFLRFamide, and FIRFamide and multiple copies of FMRFamide. Results of phylogenetic relation analysis strongly indicated that the sequence of this gene shares high identity with the genes of known FMRFamides. Spatial expression analysis indicated the highest mRNA expression of SjFMRFamide in the brain of male and female cuttlefishes among the eight tissues analyzed. An in situ hybridization assay of the brain indicated that SjFMRFamide was transcribed in several functional lobes, which suggests that it might be related to many physiological regulatory mechanisms. This is the first study describing FMRFamide in S. japonica and the results may contribute to future studies of neuropeptide evolution or may prove useful for the development of aquaculture methods for this cuttlefish species.
PER, a Circadian Clock Component, Mediates the Suppression of MMP-1 Expression in HaCaT Keratinocytes by cAMP
Authors: Yeom Miji , Lee HansongI , Shin Seoungwoo , Park Deokhoon , Jung Eunsun
Published: March 2018

Skin circadian clock system responds to daily changes, thereby regulating skin functions. Exposure of the skin to UV irradiation induces the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and causes DNA damage. It has been reported both DNA repair and DNA replication are regulated by the circadian clock in mouse skin. However, the molecular link between circadian clock and MMP-1 has little been investigated. We found PERIOD protein, a morning clock component, represses the expression of MMP-1 in human keratinocytes by using a PER-knockdown strategy. Treatment with siPer3 alleviated the suppression of MMP-1 expression induced by forskolin. Results revealed PER3 suppresses the expression of MMP-1 via cAMP signaling pathway. Additionally, we screened for an activator of PER that could repress the expression of MMP-1 using HaCaT cell line containing PER promoter-luciferase reporter gene. Results showed Lespedeza capitate extract (LCE) increased PER promoter activity. LCE inhibited the expression of MMP-1 and its effect of LCE was abolished in knockdown of PER2 or PER3, demonstrating LCE can repress the expression of MMP-1 through PER. Since circadian clock component PER can regulate MMP-1 expression, it might be a new molecular mechanism to develop therapeutics to alleviate skin aging and skin cancer.