bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Populisme di Aras Demokrasi Indonesia
Authors: Rahmawati Restu
Published: October 2018

Tulisan ini mengkaji tentang populisme di aras demokrasi di Indonesia dengan memfokuskan pada perihal kebangkitan kepemimpinan populis di Indonesia, dan peluang serta tantangan populisme bagi aras demokrasi di Indonesia. Alasan mengambil permasalahan ini dikarenakan didalam aras demokrasi seperti sekarang ini, banyak muncul tokoh-tokoh yang dianggap populis seperti Joko Widodo (Jokowi), dan Ridwan Kamil. Artinya semakin suatu negara terjerembab didalam badai krisis yang besar, maka disana rakyat akan mencari-cari para pemimpin-pemimpin yang dianggap populis. Didalam konteks demokrasi saat ini, ketika suatu masyarakat tak memiliki kepemimpinan, maka yang terjadi adalah kekacauan dan tak adanya manajemen konflik. Posisi populisme disini adalah sebuah seperangkat kepercayaan masyarakat akan pemimpin yang dianggap dapat mengangkat hidup mereka. Disisi lain, adanya masyarakat yang cenderung kurang percaya pada partai politik dan DPR. Padahal kepercayaan terhadap lembaga-lembaga publik ini merupakan indikator tersendiri dari konsolidasi demokrasi. Realita ini makin melempangkan jalan bagi populisme dan mendorong munculnya klaim-klaim populisme dari tokoh-tokoh politik yang ingin �mengail di air keruh�. Merujuk pada permasalahan tersebut maka penulis akan mengangkat permasalahan tentang populisme di aras demokrasi di Indonesia. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif deskriptif. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa bangkitnya populisme di Indonesia ditandai dengan munculnya tokoh-tokoh yang dianggap populis seperti Joko Widodo, dan Ridwan Kamil. Hadirnya kepemimpinan populis tersebut mengakibatkan peluang dan tantangan bagi aras demokrasi di Indonesia. Peluang adanya populisme yakni dapat mengingatkan elite politik atas kelemahan demokrasi keterwakilan yang sekarang ini berjalan, dan agar elite tidak lupa menyerap sebesar-besarnya kepentingan rakyat dalam proses pembuatan kebijakan. Selain peluang, populisme juga melahirkan tantangan diantaranya kaum populis cenderung memanfaatkan demi kepentingan politik elektoral, propaganda dan kharisma personal untuk menarik konstituen daripada tampil sebagai edukator.
EVALUATION OF ACADEMIC INFORMATION SYSTEM IN THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES SOEDIRMAN UNIVERSITY
Authors: Nurhayati Siti , Sistiarani Colti , Suratman Suratman
Published: October 2018

Pemanfaatan teknologi informasi pada saat ini merupakan salah satu alternatif untuk mendukung efektivitas dan efisiensi kinerja bagi suatu organisasi. Globalisasi dunia pendidikan menuntut perguruan tinggi untuk dapat mengelola informasi dengan baik, sehingga kebutuhan informasi masing�masing pihak yang berkepentingan dapat terpenuhi dengan cepat dan tepat. Salah satu sistem informasi yang ada di perguruan tinggi adalah sistem informasi akademik. Perguruan tinggi dituntut membangun sistem informasi akademik (SIA) yang mengintegrasikan dari semua aktivitas-aktivitas akademik, dan menyediakan informasi yang berguna bagi stakeholder. Dalam manajemen dan perencanaan sudah menjadi suatu keharusan bahwa evaluasi merupakan tonggak (milestone) dari suatu pengembangan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui evaluasi sistem informasi akademik di jurusan kesehatan masyarakat FIKES UNSOED berdasarkan pada kinerja/performance, informasi/data, ekonomi, keamanan/control, efisiensi, dan pelayanan/service (PIECES) dari Sistem Informasi Akademik. Hasil evaluasi menunjukkan bahwa kinerja SIA adalah baik (70,5%); informasi SIA adalah baik (55,3%); nilai ekonomi SIA adalah baik (83,5%); keamanan SIA adalah baik (84,7%); efisiensi SIA adalah baik (51,8%); pelayanan SIA adalah baik (77,6%).
PERBEDAAN EFEKTIFITAS PENGGUNAAN ATRAKTAN LARUTAN FERMENTASI GULA-RAGI DAN AIR RENDAMAN CABAI MERAH (Capsicum Annum) TERHADAP JUMLAH TELUR Aedes Sp. YANG TERPERANGKAP
Authors: Sari Arvita Kumala , Octaviana Devi , Wijayanti Siwi Pramatama Mars
Published: October 2018

Oviposition trap (Ovitrap) is one of the Aedes sp mosquito controlling method without insectide. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the use of attractant solution of yeast- sugar and water soaking red chilii to the number of trapped eggs of Aedes sp. Type of this research was experimental study. The subject of this research were all the eggs were trapped on ovitrap, while the research unit was a group of houses, building / construction in the research area which consisted of 15 houses. The study was conducted in kelurahan Mersi,Mersi District of Purwokerto. This research applies 3 treatment, so that the object consists of 15 houses with the total number of installed ovitrap 45 indoors and 45 outdoors. Total number of eggs of Aedes sp which trapped in ovitrap were 1021 grain. Number of trapped eggs in control (water wells), water of soaking red chili attractant and solution of yeast-sugart attractant were 929 grains (91%), 60 grains (5,9%) and 32 grains (3.1%) respectively. Number of eggs which trappped in ovitrap outdoor were 639 grains (62.6%) while in ovitrap indoor wwere 382 grains (37.4%). There was significant difference in the number of eggs that trapped in each type of attractant, however there was no significant difference in the number of eggs that are trapped on the basis of location.
PENERAPAN METODE SOSIODRAMA DALAM PROMOSI KESEHATAN TENTANG PENULARAN HIV/AIDS PADA IBU RUMAH TANGGA
Authors: Sukrillah Ulfah Agus
Published: October 2018

Research backgroud: Kinds of methodsin health promotion to address the spread and transmission of HIV/AIDS has been applied to the society. The focus of today's HIV-AIDS is housewifes. Method of sociodrama about the transmission of HIV/AIDS aims to provide an understanding, appreciation and develop their ability to solve the problem of HIV/AIDS through role play.

The purpose ofthis research: is to determine the effect sociodrama in health promotion methods about transmission of HIV/AIDS towards housewives.

Research method: The methodused is quasie xperimental with pre and post-test with control group design, where it measures the difference between before and after intervention using control groups. The differences between before and after the intervention are assumed to bethe effect of the intervention.

The result of reserach: based on paired t test and independent t test both intervention group and control group before and after the treatment has p value (0,000) < a (0,05). It means that there was significant different in term of knowledge level between two groups.

Conclusion : there is significant difference between sociodrama method with the use of audio- visual media in the delivery of health promotion about the transmission of HIV / AIDS on housewife.
Back to the Future? The Fallopian Tube, Precursor Escape and a Dualistic Model of High-Grade Serous Carcinogenesis
Authors: Soong T. Rinda , Kolin David , Teschan Nathan , Crum Christopher
Published: October 2018

Beginning with the discovery of the BRCA ovarian cancer susceptibility genes and subsequent detailed examination of risk reduction salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) specimens, a new paradigm of ovarian carcinogenesis has unfolded with attention to the distal fallopian tube. The primary focus has been an early cancer in the fallopian tube which is seen in virtually all incidentally discovered high-grade serous cancers in asymptomatic women. This high-frequency of tubal involvement in early serous cancer - serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma or STIC - has galvanized attention to this organ as a primary source of this disease. However, an enduring mystery has been the relatively low frequency of STIC in fallopian tubes of women with advanced malignancy. This paradox, a high-frequency of tubal involvement early and a low-frequency late in the disease process has spurred interest in other potential sources, such as the ovarian surface or secondary Mullerian system. However, because essentially all high-grade serous carcinomas are linked by TP53 mutations, and because fallopian tubes frequently contain early serous proliferations (ESPs) with these mutations, attention has turned to the possibility that nonmalignant but TP53 mutated tubal epithelium could be responsible for an eventual malignancy. Recent data have shown evidence of lineage continuity between ESPs and concurrent serous carcinomas prompting the concept of "precursor escape". This creates a 2nd component of the paradigm by which cells from early lesions can escape the fallopian tube and undergo future malignant transformation later, emerging suddenly as widespread malignancy. This dualistic model thus explains the paradox and opens new questions pertaining to the challenge of both early detection and prevention of this lethal malignancy.
Synthesis and Characterization of Multifunctional Chiral and Photoactive Organic-Inorganic Block Copolymers of Poly(methylphenylsilane) with (R)-N-(1-phenylethyl)methacrylamide, Disperse Red 1 Methacrylate and Their optical and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Meenu Km. , Bag Dibyendu S. , Lagarkha Rekha , Tomar Radha , Gupta Arvind Kumar
Published: October 2018

Now-a-days, the thrust area of materials’ research is to develop multifunctional materials, which have multiple properties in a single functional material. We are interested to develop multifunctional polysilanes having special functional properties such as optical activity and photoluminescence (PL) properties. In this investigation, poly(methyl phenyl silane) (PMPS) was integrated with a chiral unit and a photoactive unit by in situ photopolymerization of  (R)-N-(1-phenyl ethyl) methacrylamide (R-NPEMAM) and disperse red 1 methacrylate (DR1MA) monomer in the presence of PMPS. PMPS acted as a macrophotoinitiator and by UV exposure it produced macroradicals which initiated polymerization of chiral and photoactive monomers. Thus a block copolymer of PMPS-b-(R-NPEMAM-ran-DR1MA) was synthesized.The synthesized multifunctional organic inorganic hybrid polymer samples were characterized by FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. The molecular weights of the samples were measured by GPC analysis. The optical, chiroptical and photoluminescence properties were studied. The narrow band at about 1638 cm-1 is due to C=O stretching vibration of -CONH- of the chiral unit.  A wide absorption peaks at 3444 cm-1 is the characteristic of NH trans stretching vibration of secondary amide group. The asymmetric stretching of NO2 group appeared at 1481 cm-1 and the characteristic peak at 1427 cm-1 was observed due to azo (-N=N-) group stretching of DR1MA unit. The Si-Si band of PMPS appeared at about 462 cm-1 in FTIR spectra. The optical absorbance observed at 272 nm is due to π-π* transition of aromatic ring and at 330 nm corresponds to σ-σ* transition of Si-Si bond. The other electronic absorption observed in the visible region at 475 nm corresponds to the combined contribution of n-π* and π-π* transition of DR1MA unit. The photoluminescence properties of such polymers were studied for the variation of concentration of the polymer solution and variation with excitation energy such as 275 nm, 325 nm and 475 nm in THF solvent. Such synthesized multifunctional photoactive organic-inorganic polymers having unusual optical, chiroptical and photoluminescence property may find novel optoelectronic (friend foe identification and secretive code identification) applications.
Aberrant Epigenetic Regulation in Head and Neck Cancer Due to Distinct EZH2 Overexpression and DNA Hypermethylation
Authors: Mochizuki Daiki , Misawa Yuki , Kawasaki Hideya , Imai Atsushi , Endo Shiori , Mima Masato , Yamada Satoshi , Nakagawa Takuya , Kanazawa Takeharu , Misawa Kiyoshi
Published: October 2018

EZH2 overexpression is associated with tumor proliferation, metastasis, and poor prognosis. Targeting and inhibiting EZH2 may be an effective therapeutic strategy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We previously analyzed EZH2 mRNA expression in a well-characterized dataset of 230 (110 original and 120 validation cohorts) human head and neck cancer samples. This study aimed to investigate the effects of inhibiting EZH2, either via RNA interference or via pharmacotherapy, on HNSCC growth. EZH2 upregulation was significantly correlated with recurrence (P < 0.001) and the methylation index of tumor suppressor genes (P < 0.05). DNMT3A was significantly upregulated upon EZH2 upregulation (P = 0.043). Univariate analysis revealed that EZH2 upregulation was associated with poor disease-free survival (log-rank test, P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, EZH2 upregulation was evaluated as a significant independent prognostic factor of disease-free survival (hazard ratio: 2.085, 95% confidence interval: 1.390–3.127; P < 0.001). Cells treated with RNA interference and DZNep, an EZH2 inhibitor, showed the most dramatic changes in expression, accompanied with a reduction in the growth and survival of FaDu cells. These findings suggest that EZH2 upregulation is correlated with tumor aggressiveness and adverse patient outcomes in HNSCC. Evaluation of EZH2 expression might help predict the prognosis of HNSCC patients.
Distribution of Carbon and Nitrogen and Ecological Stoichiometry of the Plant-Litter-Soil Continuum in an Evergreen Broad-Leaved Forest
Authors: Wang Hui , Wang Bing , Niu Xiang , Song Qingfeng , Bai Haonan , Li Yueqiao , Luo Jiadong , Chen Hedong , Nie Linya , Luo Zhi
Published: October 2018

We analyzed the plant-litter-soil continuum to investigate the carbon and nitrogen distribution and ecological stoichiometry of an evergreen broad-leaved forest at Dagangshan Mountain, Jiangxi. The results showed that the average C and N contents and C:N ratios in the leaves and fine roots among 6 different tree species were 401.87g/kg, 21.41g/kg, 19.27 and 348.64g/kg, 15.73g/kg, 23.97, respectively; the average C and N contents and C:N ratios were 323.06 g/kg, 12.76 g/kg, 25.58 respectively in leaf litter, and 16.40 g/kg, 1.09 g/kg, 16.27 respectively for soil. In contrast with the C content, the total N content of the fine roots and litter had a high coefficient of variation and a high spatial heterogeneity. We ranked the six different representative tree species according to total C and N content in leaves and fine roots. The results for each species were generally consistent with each other, showing a positive correlation relationship between total C and N content in the leaves and roots. Among them, S. discolor (Champ. ex Benth.) Muell. plants displayed high carbon and nitrogen storage capacities, and on the other hand, C. fargesii Franch., C. myrsinifolia (Blume) Oersted, A. fortunei (Hemsl.) Makino, and V. fordii (Hemsl.) Airy Shaw showed a high nitrogen transfer rate. Total soil N and C decreased with depth. Soil organic carbon (SOC), soil resistant organic carbon (ROC), total N, alkali nitrogen, NH4+-N and NO3--N contents were all also negative correlated with soil depth, but the contents of the NH4+-N and NO3--N did not change significantly; The spatial distribution of soil NO3--N was significantly heterogeneous. At 0-10 cm soil depth, SOC was positively correlated with alkaline nitrogen, and at 10-20 cm soil depth, SOC was significantly positively correlated with total N. In general, when soil carbon was abundant, nitrogen supply capacity was also high.
Self--Tuning Control Techniques for Wind Turbine and Hydroelectric Plant Systems
Authors: Simani Silvio , Alvisi Stefano , Venturini Mauro
Published: October 2018

The interest on the use of renewable energy resources is increasing, especially towards wind and hydro powers, which should be efficiently converted into electric energy via suitable technology tools. To this aim, self--tuning control techniques represent viable strategies that can be employed for this purpose, due to the features of these nonlinear dynamic processes working over a wide range of operating conditions, driven by stochastic inputs, excitations and disturbances. Some of the considered methods were already verified on wind turbine systems, and important advantages may thus derive from the appropriate implementation of the same control schemes for hydroelectric plants. This represents the key point of the work, which provides some guidelines on the design and the application of these control strategies to these energy conversion systems. In fact, it seems that investigations related with both wind and hydraulic energies present a reduced number of common aspects, thus leading to little exchange and share of possible common points. This consideration is particularly valid with reference to the more established wind area when compared to hydroelectric systems. In this way, this work recalls the models of wind turbine and hydroelectric system, and investigates the application of different control solutions. The scope is to analyse common points in the control objectives and the achievable results from the application of different solutions. Another important point of this investigation regards the analysis of the exploited benchmark models, their control objectives, and the development of the control solutions. The working conditions of these energy conversion systems will be also taken into account in order to highlight the reliability and robustness characteristics of the developed control strategies, especially interesting for remote and relatively inaccessible location of many installations.
Determination of Relationship Between Lipid Peroxidation, Antioxidant Defence, Trace Elements and Hemorheology in COPD
Authors: Saribal Devrim , Hocaoglu-Emre F Sinem , Aydemir Birsen , Akyolcu Mehmet Can
Published: October 2018

Background and objective: Oxidative stress has important role in pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There are studies suggesting the role of increased oxidative stress and decreased antioxidants in COPD patients. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of oxidative and anti-oxidant system elements, serum concentrations of trace elements and blood viscosity in COPD patients.

Methods: Our study group consisted of 25 male patients with COPD, and 25 healthy non-smokers.

The lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) and anti-oxidant system elements superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Glutathione (GSH) were measured spectrophotometrically. Serum concentrations of Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn) and Iron (Fe) were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Additionally, we measured blood viscosity using a viscosimeter.

Results: Lipid peroxidation product MDA levels were found to be higher in plasma and erythrocytes. However GSH levels, SOD and Catalase enzyme activities were lower in erythrocytes of patient group than that of controls (p<0,01). Fe and Zn levels were decreased, whereas Cu levels were increased in patient samples (p<0,05; p<0,01, respectvely). There was no statistically significant difference between plasma and blood viscosities.

Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that COPD leads to the lipid peroxidation in erythrocyte membrane, and decreased levels of anti-oxidant system elements. Serum trace element concentrations were found to be altered in COPD patients, suggesting their interaction with oxidant and anti-oxidant enzymes.
Financing MSMEs (Micro Small and Medium Enterprises) in Nigeria: Implications of Transaction Costs
Authors: Ajuwon Oluseye , Ikhide Sylvanus , Akotey Joseph
Published: October 2018

This study investigated the roles of transactions cost in MSMEs access to finance. This was done by investigating the impact of transactions cost on access to credit from both MSMEs and financial institutions (commercial banks and microfinance banks). From the MSMEs’ side, borrowing experience, decision lag, firm size and borrowers’ distance to the loan office were investigated. On the financial institution’s side, the costs of information gathering, loan administration, monitoring and loan enforcement were investigated. We used the questionnaire survey method, in-depth interviews and case studies, as well as the annual financial statements of the banks. We identified interest rate and collateral value as constraints to access to finance for MSMEs. We also found financial institutions’ attitude to MSMEs access to credit was not friendly. Financial institutions need to do more to bring down transaction cost of lending. This hopefully can be achieved by investing more in agent banking which would lower operating costs, as well as spreading risk, and ultimately increase credit intermediation to small businesses.
Association between Problematic Internet Use and Sleep Disturbance Among Adolescents: the Role of the Child’s Sex
Authors: Yang Jiewen , Guo Yangfeng , Du Xueying , Jiang Yi , Wang Wanxin , Xiao Di , Wang Tian , Lu Ciyong , Guo Lan
Published: October 2018

The Internet use has become an integral part of daily life, adolescents are especially at a higher risk to develop problematic Internet use (PIU). Although one of the most well-known comorbid conditions of PIU is sleep disturbance, little is known about the sex disparity in this association. This school-based survey in students of grades 7-9 was conducted to estimate the prevalence of PIU and sleep disturbance among Chinese adolescents, to test the association between PIU and sleep disturbance, and to investigate the role of the child’s sex in this association. A two-stage stratified cluster sampling method was used to recruit participants, and a two-level logistic regression models were fitted. The mean Internet addiction test scores was 37.2 (SD: 13.2), and 15.5% (736) met the criteria for PIU. After adjusting for control variables, problematic Internet users were at a higher risk of sleep disturbance (adjusted odds ratio=2.41, 95% CI=2.07-3.19). Sex-stratified analyses also demonstrated that association was greater in girls than boys. In this respect, paying more attention to the sleep patterns of adolescents who report excessive Internet use is recommended, and this early identification may be of practical importance for schools, parents, and adolescents themselves.
Characterization of Feedstock Filament Extruded from Secondary Sources of PS, ABS and PVC
Authors: Turku Irina , Kasala Sushil , Kärki Timo
Published: October 2018

The recyclability of polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene and polyvinylchloride waste and using them as a source for 3D printing were studied. Filaments of about 3 mm in diameter were extruded successfully with a small-size extruder. The processed filaments were tested on a broad range of parameters - glass transition temperature, tensile properties and a pyrolysis scenario were obtained. The measured parameters were compared with parameters of virgin counterparts presented in the literature. In order to estimate the toxicity of the recycled material, elemental analysis of the samples was done.
GaIn: Human Gait Inference for Lower Limbic Prostheses for Patients Suffering From Double Trans-Femoral Amputation
Authors: Chereshnev Roman , Kertész-Farkas Attila
Published: October 2018

Several studies have analyzed human gait data obtained from inertial gyroscope and accelerometer sensors mounted on different parts of the body. In this article, we take a step further in gait analysis and provide a methodology for predicting the movements of the missing parts of the legs. In particular, we propose a method, called GaIn, to control non-invasive, robotic, prosthetic legs. GaIn can infer the movements of both missing shanks and feet for humans suffering from double trans-femoral amputation using biologically inspired recurrent neural networks. Predictions are performed for casual walking related activities such as walking, taking stairs, and running based on thigh movement. In our experimental tests, GaIn achieved a 4.55 degree prediction error for shank movements on average. However, a patient's intention to stand up and sit down cannot be inferred from thigh movements. In fact, intention causes thigh movements while the shanks and feet remain roughly still. The GaIn system can be triggered by thigh muscle activities measured with electromyography (EMG) sensors to make robotic prosthetic legs perform standing up and sitting down actions. The GaIn system has low prediction latency and is fast and computationally inexpensive to be deployed on mobile platforms and portable devices.
Assessing the Operational Carbon at University
Authors: Zen Irina Safitri , Bandi Masilah , Karniah Kasturi Devi , Binti Abu Bakar Iklil Nabihah , Zakaria Rozana
Published: October 2018

The establishment of low carbon assessment initiatives is a crucial task especially at the city level. The determination of which source of carbon contributed more require robust data set and strategic approach. Hence, by using the campus as a small city approach, the establishment of carbon assessment and its’ reduction initiatives was required to keep track of the hotspot of the carbon source. The substantial amount of carbon source from campus operations such as energy consumption in the building, waste generation, and water consumption were identified. Moreover, as institutions of higher education, the execution of low carbon campus was initiated structurally involves the triangulation of research activities, teaching & learning and as well as campus operations or known as campus living lab approach. The application of low carbon cities framework, LCCF and assessment system enables to strategize the low carbon campus initiatives through the use of carbon footprint concept and the LCCF carbon track.
NiFe Alloy Reduced on Graphene Oxide for Electrochemical Non-Enzymatic glucose Sensing
Authors: Deng Zhe-Peng , Sun Yu , Wang Yong-Cheng , Gao Jian-De
Published: October 2018

NiFe alloy nanoparticles/graphene oxide hybrid (NiFe/GO) was prepared for electrochemical glucose sensing. The as-prepared NiFe/GO hybrid was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicated that NiFe alloy nanoparticles can be successfully deposited on GO. The electrochemical glucose sensing performance of the as-prepared NiFe/GO was studied by cyclic voltammetry and amperometric measurement. Results showed that NiFe/GO modified glassy carbon electrode had sensitivity of 173 μA mM−1cm−2 for glucose sensing with a linear range up to 5 mM, which was superior to commonly used Ni nanoparticles. Furthermore, high selectivity for glucose detection can be achieved by NiFe/GO. All the results demonstrated that NiFe/GO hybrid was promising for using in electrochemical glucose sensing.
Estimates of the Leaf Area Index Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Images of an Urban Mangrove in the Vitória Bay, Brazil
Authors: Silva Elizabeth Dell Orto , Candido Xavier Alexandre , Nogueira de Souza Tedesco Angélica , Azevedo Barreto Neto Aurélio , de Lima Luiz Eduardo Martins , Pezzopane José Eduardo Macedo , Tognella Mônica Maria Pereira
Published: October 2018

The urban mangrove of the Vitória Bay, Espírito Santo, Southern Brazil suffers from anthropogenic impacts, which interfere in the foliar spectral response of its species. Identifying the spectral behavior of these species and creating regression models to indirectly obtain structure data like the Leaf Area Index (LAI) are powerful environmental monitoring tools. In this study, LAI was obtained in 32 plots distributed in four stations. In situ LAI regression analysis with the SAVI resulted in significant positive relationships (r2 = 0.58). Forest variability regarding the degree of maturity and structural heterogeneity and LAI influenced the adjustment of vegetation indices (VIs). The highest regression values were obtained for the homogeneous field data, represented by R. mangle plots, which also had higher LAI values. The same field data were correlated with SAVI of a RapidEye image for comparison purposes. The results showed that, images obtained by a UAV have higher spatial resolution than the Rapideye image, and therefore had a greater influence of the background. Another point is that the statistical analysis of the field data with the IVs obtained from the RapidEye image did not present high regression coefficient (r2 = 0.7), suggesting that the use of VIs applied to the study of urban mangroves needs to be better evaluated, observing the factors that influence the leaf spectral response.
Early Response to Liberation and Climatic Seasonality of Selected Timber Species in a Tropical Mountain Forest of Southern Ecuador
Authors: Cabrera Omar , Fries Andreas , Hildebrandt Patrick , Mosandl Reinhard
Published: October 2018

Research Highlights: The study determined that selective thinning causes different responses, the initial size of the tree released is an influential factor in the growth of species. The temporality of climate and physiological conditions of each species are influential in the growth. It is evident that the defoliation of certain species is an important factor that limits the growth of the species causing thinning to have a negative response. Background and Objectives: The objective is to analyze the behavior of nine timber species, respective to diametric growth after their liberation. This research aims to answer the following questions: (i) How do the selected tree species react to the liberation? (ii) Can the productivity of the trees (diametric growth) be enhanced by liberation? (iii) Are there other factors that influence the diametric growth of the released trees? Materials and Methods: The study was executed in the “Reserva Biológica San Francisco” were 488 trees were monitored, including nine timber species. Therefore, 197 trees were released (removal of competitors) and 251 trees served as reference. To check whether the initial DBH or other factors, like the selective thinning or climate conditions, determine the diameter growth a linear mixed model GLMM was applied. To adjust the linear mixed model a one-way Anova test was executed. Results: Timber species responded differently to the thinning in comparing to reference trees. Therefore, the species analyzed were separated into three groups (positive, negative, and no response to liberation). Conclusions: Liberation potentiates the growth of certain timber species that do not defoliate and considered semi-tolerant to shade. Precipitation and temperature affect all species, but in the defoliate species, it would not be convenient to release them or at least the evidence of these first three years does not show clear differences with control trees. Increase in trees released are higher in trees of the first two diametric classes in all species, this means that larger trees (i.e., older) release does not affect them in a positive way so release should occur in the youngest trees.
Delimiting the Measurement for the Internalization of Body Ideals From the Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire and Examining its Invariance Across Sex
Authors: Sicilia Álvaro , Alcaraz-Ibáñez Manuel , Granero-Gallegos Antonio , Sánchez-Gallardo Isabel , Medina-Casaubón Jesús
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study was to validate an instrument that allows us to overcome some of the limitations found in existing tools aimed at assessing the internalization of sociocultural body ideals. To do this, we used a sample group of 1,130 students aged between 10 and 14 years. The psychometric properties of the Scale for the Internalization of Sociocultural Body Ideals (SISBI) were examined using different analyses. The results supported the eight-item structure: four items for thin body ideal internalization and four items for thin body muscular/athletic internalization. The structure showed invariance to sex and achieved acceptable internal consistency and temporal stability indexes. Furthermore, the results showed that, after controlling for sex and BMI effects, the internalization of the thin body ideal positively predicted social-physique anxiety in a statistically significant way. The results of this study provide evidence of SISBI reliability and validity in Spanish preadolescents.
Parallel Tempering Monte Carlo Studies of Phase Transition of Free Boundary Planar Surfaces
Authors: Shobukhov Andrey , Koibuchi Hiroshi
Published: October 2018

We numerically study surface models defined on hexagonal disks with a free boundary. 2D surface models for planer surfaces have recently attracted interest due to the engineering applications of functional materials such as graphene and its composite with polymers. These 2D composite meta-materials are strongly influenced by external stimuli such as thermal fluctuations if they are sufficiently thin. For this reason, it is very interesting to study the shape stability/instability of thin 2D materials against thermal fluctuations. In this paper, we study three types of surface models including Landau-Ginzburg (LG) and Helfirch-Polyakov models defined on triangulated hexagonal disks using the parallel tempering Monte Carlo simulation technique. We find that the planer surfaces undergo a first-order transition between the smooth and crumpled phases in the LG model and continuous transitions in the other two models. The first-order transition is relatively weaker compared to the transition on spherical surfaces already reported. The continuous nature of the transition is consistent with the reported results, although the transitions are stronger than that of the reported ones.
Effect of Time on a Hierarchical Corn Skeleton-Like Composite of CoO@ZnO as Capability Electrode Material for High Specific Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Yedluri Anil Kumar , Kim Hee-Je
Published: October 2018

CoO-ZnO-based composites have attracted considerable attention for the development of energy storage devices because of their multifunctional characterization and ease of integration with existing components. This paper reports the synthesis of CoO@ZnO (CZ) nanostructures on Ni foam by the CBD method for facile and eco-friendly supercapacitor applications. The formation of a CoO@ZnO electrode functioned with cobalt, zinc, nickel and oxygen groups was confirmed by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, low and high-resolution of scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The as-synthesized hierarchical nanocorn skeleton-like structure of CoO@ZnO-3h (CZ3h) electrode delivered a higher specific capacitance of 1136 F/g at a current density of 3 A/g with outstanding cycling stability, showing 98.3% capacitance retention over 3000 cycles in an aqueous 2 M KOH electrolyte solution. This retention was significantly better than that of other prepared electrodes, such as CoO (CO), ZnO (ZO), CoO@ZnO-1h (CZ1h), and CoO@ZnO-7h (CZ7h) (274, 383, 240 and 537 F/g, respectively). This superior capacitance was attributed to the ideal surface morphology of CZ3h, which is responsible for the rapid electron/ion transfer between the electrolyte and electrode surface area. The enhanced features of the CZ3h electrode highlight potential applications in high performance supercapacitors, solar cells, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis.
VITORIA BAY POLLUTION STUDY IN THE FRAME OF TAGUBAR RESEARCH PROJECT – GEOCHEMISTRY OF THE SEDIMENTS OF ESPIRITO SANTO BAY
Authors: Giacometti Andrea , Perin Guido , Bonardi Maurizio
Published: October 2018

The Bay of Espirito Santo is located in the Espírito Santo State, in the eastern part of Brazil. It is surrounded by the city of Vitoria on one side and by the Atlantic Ocean on the other. Superficial sediments of Espirito Santo Bay were analyzed at 12 (western shallow silt sediments) + 8 (eastern sandy sediments and relatively deep sampling stations) = 20 uniformly distributed sampling points where geochemical analysis was performed. Nineteen elements were analyzed: Mo, Cu, Pb, Zn, Ag, Ni, Mn, Fe, As, U, Th, Sr, Cd, Sb, Bi, V, Cr, Ba, and Al. This selection was made based on the most representative heavy metals present in this area and according to the results obtained from the geochemical analysis. Their concentrations were compared with metal contamination benchmarks like Screening Quick Reference Tables (SQuiRTs), Effects Range-Low (ERLs) and Effects Range-Median (ERMs), TELs (Threshold Effects Levels), PELs (Probable Effects Levels), ERM (Effects range median), and AETs (Apparent Effects Thresholds). Results indicate that there is no particular pollution condition able to alter the condition of any part of this water body. The Authors conclude that the Espirito Santo Bay is only moderately polluted and some elements are virtually absent.
Recreational Use of SPA Thermal Waters: Criticisms and Perspectives for Innovative Treatments
Authors: Valeriani Federica , Margarucci Lory Marika , Romano Spica Vincenzo
Published: October 2018

Natural spa springs are diffused all over the world and their use in pools is known since ancient times. This review underlines the cultural and social spa context focusing on hygiene issues, public health guidelines and emerging concerns regarding water management in wellness or recreational settings. The question of the "untouchability" of therapeutic natural waters and their incompatibility with traditional disinfection processes is addressed considering the demand for effective treatments that would respect the natural properties. Available strategies and innovative treatments are reviewed, highlighting potentials and limits for a sustainable management. Alternative approaches comprise nanotechnologies, photocatalysis systems, advanced filtration. State of the art and promising perspectives are reported considering the chemical-physical component and the biological natural complexity of the spa water microbiota.
Whole Chloroplast Genome Characterization and Comparison of Two Sympatric Species in Genus Hippophae (Elaeagnaceae)
Authors: Wang Luoyun , Wang Jing , He Caiyun , Zhang Jianguo , Zeng Yanfei
Published: October 2018

Hippophae is a tree species with ecological, economic and social benefits. In this study, we assembled and annotated chloroplast genomes of sympatric Hippophae gyantsensis and H. rhamnoides subsp. yunnanensis. Their full-length are 155260 and 156415 bp, respectively. Each of them has 131 genes, comprising 85 protein-coding genes, 8 ribosomal RNA genes and 38 transfer RNA genes. After comparing the chloroplast genomes, we found 1302 base difference loci, and 63.29% are located in the intergenic region or intron sequences and 36.71% are located in the coding sequences. The SSC region has the highest mutation rate, followed by the LSC region; the IR regions have the lowest mutation rate. Among the protein-coding genes, three had a ratio of nonsynonymous to synonymous substitutions (Ka/Ks) >1 (but P values were non-significant) and 66 had Ka/Ks <1 (46 were significant). In general, the chloroplast protein-coding genes may be subject to purification selection. Among H. gyantsensis and H. rhamnoides subsp. yunnanensis chloroplast protein-coding genes, there are 20 and 16 optimal codons, respectively. Most of the optimal codons were ending with A or U, which indicates significant AT preference. It is an important reference for studies on the general characteristics and evolution of the Hippophae chloroplast genome.
Bark Beetle Population Dynamics in the Anthropocene: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Biedermann Peter H. W. , Grégoire Jean-Claude , Gruppe Axel , Hagge Jonas , Hammerbacher Almuth , Hofstetter Richard , Kandasamy Dineshkumar , Kolarik Miroslav , Kostovcik Martin , Krokene Paal , Müller Jörg , Sallé Aurélien , Six Diana L. , Turrini Tabea , Vanderpool Dan , Wingfield Michael , Bässler Claus
Published: October 2018

Tree-killing bark beetles are the most economically important insects in conifer forests worldwide. Yet  despite >200 years of research, the drivers of population eruptions or crashes are still not fully understood, precluding reliable predictions of the effects of global change on beetle population dynamics and impacts on ecosystems and humans.  We critically analyze potential biotic and abiotic drivers of population dynamics of the European spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus) and present a novel ecological framework that integrates the multiple drivers governing this bark beetle system. We call for large-scale collaborative research efforts to improve our understanding of the population dynamics of this important pest; an approach that might serve as a blueprint for other eruptive forest insects.
Pembacaan Lintas Tekstual: Tantangan Ber-Hermeneutik Alkitab Asia (1)
Authors: Listijabudi Daniel Kurniawan
Published: October 2018

In the present article I offer a discussion of Asian Biblical Hermeneutics and its relationship to postcolonial biblical criticism, which partly implicated to a multi-faith hermeneutical method. It included the examination of several issues such as the location of the application of the method, methodical options, critical appraisal to the method, as well as its significance for contextual Bible study within my Asian and Indonesian contexts. I put forward as well a critical discussion of several examples of the way Asian hermeneuticians and theologians using the method. I conclude it with my own hermeneutical standpoint through the elaboration on a cross-textual reading of sacred texts and its function as an important instrument within the field of interreligious dialogue.
Removal of strontium from simulated low-level radioactive wastewater by nanofiltration
Authors: Chen Lifang , Bian Xiaokai , Lu Xiaofeng
Published: October 2018

The performance of different nanofiltration (NF) membranes for the treatment of strontium-containing radioactive wastewater was investigated. The effects of the initial strontium concentration, solution pH and complexation phenomena on strontium removal were described. For all the three membranes, the strontium rejection increased with decreasing initial strontium concentration. Meanwhile, the strontium rejection was minimum at the membrane isoelectric point (pH 5) primarily due to decreased co-ion electrostatic repulsion. In the presence of a complexing agent (polyacrylic acid or ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid disodium salt), the strontium rejection was generally higher than those obtained without a complexing agent for NF 270 and XN 45. Membrane cleaning experiments were also conducted to recover the performance of the membranes, which exhibited degradation during long-time filtration. The performance of the membranes after cleaning was close to that of the virgin membranes, especially for XN 45, whose recovery percentage was nearly 100%.
Lipids as Activators of Innate Immunity in Peptide Vaccine Delivery
Authors: Bartlett Stacey , Skwarczynski Mariusz , Toth Istvan
Published: October 2018

Background:

Innate immune system plays an important role in pathogen detection and the recognition of vaccines, mainly through pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that identify pathogen components (danger signals). One of the typically recognised bacterial components are lipids in conjugation with peptides, proteins and saccharides. Lipidic compounds are readily recognised by the immune system, and thus are ideal candidates for peptide- based vaccine delivery. Thus, bacterial or synthetic lipids mixed with, or conjugated to, antigens have shown adjuvant properties. These systems have many advantages over traditional adjuvants, including low toxicity and good efficacy for stimulating mucosal and systemic immune responses.

Methods:

The most recent literature on the role of lipids in stimulation of immune responses was selected for this review. The vast majority of reviewed papers were published in the last decade. Older but significant findings are also cited.

Results:

This review focuses on the development of lipopeptide vaccine systems including application of palmitic acid, bacterial lipopeptides, glycolipids and the lipid core peptide and their routes of administration. The use of liposomes as a delivery system that incorporates lipopeptides is discussed. The review also includes a brief description of immune system in relation to vaccinology and discussion on vaccine delivery routes.

Conclusion:

Lipids and their conjugates are an ideal frontrunner in the development of safe and efficient vaccines for different immunisation routes.
Iron and Vitamin D/Calcium Deficiency after Gastric Bypass: Mechanisms Involved and Strategies to Improve Oral Supplement Disposition
Authors: Mangan Aisling , Le Roux Carel W. , Miller Nana Gletsu , Docherty Neil G.
Published: October 2018

Background:

Nutritional deficiencies are common following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB). Aetiology is diverse; including non-compliance, altered diet, unresolved preoperative deficiency and differential degrees of post-operative malabsorption occurring as function of length of bypassed intestine. Iron and calcium/vitamin D deficiency occur in up to 50% of patients following RYGB. Currently, treatment strategies recommend the prescription of oral supplements for those who become deficient. Meanwhile, debate exists regarding the absorption capacity of these post-operatively and their efficacy in treating deficiency.

Objective:

To examine the disposition of oral iron and calcium/vitamin D supplementation following RYGB. Methods: A literature review was carried out using PubMed and Embase. Data from the key interventional studies investigating iron and calcium/vitamin D oral supplement absorption and efficacy following RYGB was summarized.

Results:

Absorption of both iron and vitamin D/calcium is adversely affected following RYGB. Distribution and metabolism may be altered by the predominance of paracellular absorption pathways which promote unregulated influx into the circulatory system. Overall, studies indicate that current supplementation strategies are efficacious to a degree in treating deficiency following RYGB, generally restoration of optimal status is not achieved.

Conclusion:

Oral supplement disposition is altered following RYGB. As a result, patients are required to take regimens of oral supplementation indefinitely. The dosage which confers optimum health benefit while avoiding potential toxicity and tolerability issues remains unknown. Novel preparations with improved disposition could help limit the extent of post-RYGB nutritional deficiencies.
Estimating the k-mer Coverage Frequencies in Genomic Datasets: A Comparative Assessment of the State-of-the-art
Authors: Manekar Swati C. , Sathe Shailesh R.
Published: October 2018

Background:

In bioinformatics, estimation of k-mer abundance histograms or just enumerating the number of unique k-mers and the number of singletons are desirable in many genome sequence analysis applications. The applications include predicting genome sizes, data pre-processing for de Bruijn graph assembly methods (tune runtime parameters for analysis tools), repeat detection, sequencing coverage estimation, measuring sequencing error rates, etc. Different methods for cardinality estimation in sequencing data have been developed in recent years.

Objective:

In this article, we present a comparative assessment of the different k-mer frequency estimation programs (ntCard, KmerGenie, KmerStream and Khmer (abundance-dist-single.py and unique-kmers.py) to assess their relative merits and demerits.

Methods:

Principally, the miscounts/error-rates of these tools are analyzed by rigorous experimental analysis for a varied range of k. We also present experimental results on runtime, scalability for larger datasets, memory, CPU utilization as well as parallelism of k-mer frequency estimation methods.

Results:

The results indicate that ntCard is more accurate in estimating F0, f1 and full k-mer abundance histograms compared with other methods. ntCard is the fastest but it has more memory requirements compared to KmerGenie.

Conclusion:

The results of this evaluation may serve as a roadmap to potential users and practitioners of streaming algorithms for estimating k-mer coverage frequencies, to assist them in identifying an appropriate method. Such results analysis also help researchers to discover remaining open research questions, effective combinations of existing techniques and possible avenues for future research.