bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early warning: detection of exotic coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) by environmental DNA and evidence of establishment at the extreme south of Patagonia
Authors: Chalde Tomás , Nardi Cristina F. , Fernández Daniel A.
Published: April 2019

The global expansion of aquaculture is a constant propagule pressure that enables the establishment of exotic species in freshwater and marine environments. Here, we provide the first report on the presence of exotic coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) at the extreme south of Patagonia, in the island of Tierra del Fuego (TDF). During the last 6 years, 43 juvenile coho salmon were captured along the Beagle Channel, while one adult was captured in fresh water. Scale analysis showed that migration from fresh water as smolt would occur during their first winter of life. Mitochondrial DNA analyses revealed two haplotypes previously reported in North America and a new haplotype not reported before. We developed an environmental DNA assay for detecting coho salmon DNA from fresh water, obtaining positive results in three rivers. Additionally, one of these rivers was monitored monthly for a year, and we detected coho salmon DNA over 7 months, revealing the probable occurrence of coho salmon juveniles in fresh water. These results suggest the potential establishment of self-sustaining populations of coho salmon in TDF.
A Parallel Framework of Combining Satisfiability Modulo Theory with Indicator-Based Evolutionary Algorithm for Configuring Large and Real Software Product Lines
Authors: Shi Kai , Yu Huiqun , Guo Jianmei , Fan Guisheng , Chen Liqiong , Yang Xingguang
Published: April 2019

Multi-objective evolutionary algorithm (MOEA) has been widely applied to software product lines (SPLs) for addressing the configuration optimization problems. For example, the state-of-the-art SMTIBEA algorithm extends the constraint expressiveness and supports richer constraints to better address these problems. However, it just works better than the competitor for four out of five SPLs in five objectives and the convergence speed is not significantly increased for largest Linux SPL from 5 to 30[Formula: see text]min. To further improve the optimization efficiency, we propose a parallel framework SMTPORT, which combines four corresponding SMTIBEA variants and performs these variants by utilizing parallelization techniques within the limited time budget. For case studies in LVAT repository, we conduct a series of experiments on seven real-world and highly-constrained SPLs. Empirical results demonstrate that our approach significantly outperforms the state-of-the-art for all the seven SPLs in terms of a quality Hypervolume metric and a diversity Pareto Front Size indicator.
Electromagnetic wave propagation in a layer with power nonlinearity
Authors: Kurseeva Valeria , Tikhov Stanislav , Valovik Dmitry
Published: April 2019

The paper focuses on a problem that describes propagation of transverse-electric (TE) waves in a plane dielectric waveguide filled with nonlinear medium. The nonlinearity is characterized by the power term [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] are constants and [Formula: see text] is the electric term of the guided electromagnetic field. The layer is located between two half-spaces filled with linear media having constant permittivities. It is proved that the nonlinear problem has infinitely many propagation constants (PCs), whereas the corresponding linear problem has only a finite number of them. The nonlinearity leads to the occurrence of infinitely many nonperturbative solutions of the nonlinear problem. Results of the paper show that the power nonlinearity (for any [Formula: see text]) and Kerr nonlinearity (for [Formula: see text]) produce qualitatively similar outcomes. In addition, the found results allow one to study very important cases of quintic, septimal, etc. nonlinear permittivities in the focusing regime.
Bile Acids as Metabolic Regulators and Nutrient Sensors
Authors: Chiang John Y. L. , Ferrell Jessica M.
Published: April 2019

Bile acids facilitate nutrient absorption and are endogenous ligands for nuclear receptors that regulate lipid and energy metabolism. The brain–gut–liver axis plays an essential role in maintaining overall glucose, bile acid, and immune homeostasis. Fasting and feeding transitions alter nutrient content in the gut, which influences bile acid composition and pool size. In turn, bile acid signaling controls lipid and glucose use and protection against inflammation. Altered bile acid metabolism resulting from gene mutations, high-fat diets, alcohol, or circadian disruption can contribute to cholestatic and inflammatory diseases, diabetes, and obesity. Bile acids and their derivatives are valuable therapeutic agents for treating these inflammatory metabolic diseases.
Migration Out of Rural Areas and Implications for Rural Livelihoods
Authors: de Brauw Alan
Published: April 2019

Despite the fact that migration out of agriculture has always been a part of the economic development process, policy makers have long feared that migration from rural areas reduces agricultural production. This article reviews the growing microeconomic literature with more credible statistical identification that evaluates the effects of migration on agricultural production and other outcomes among rural households. By and large, migration does not negatively affect agricultural production, as households shift on one of several margins to reduce the lost labor impact. Through migrant remittances, migration can lead to one of several different types of investment. When investment occurs, the type of investment depends upon relative local returns to investments in agriculture, nonagriculture, or human capital. Some innovative recent work also documents the role of migration in catalyzing technical change. Future policy related to rural out-migration should focus on enhancing its positive effects and mitigating any negative ones.
Macrophage-secreted TGF-β1 contributes to fibroblast activation and ureteral stricture after ablation injury
Authors: Ueshima Eisuke , Fujimori Masashi , Kodama Hiroshi , Felsen Diane , Chen Jie , Durack Jeremy C. , Solomon Stephen B. , Coleman Jonathan A. , Srimathveeravalli Govindarajan
Published: April 2019

Iatrogenic injury to the healthy ureter during ureteroscope-guided ablation of malignant or nonmalignant disease can result in ureteral stricture. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-mediated scar formation is considered to underlie ureteral stricture, but the cellular sources of this cytokine and the sequelae preceding iatrogenic stricture formation are unknown. Using a swine model of ureteral injury with irreversible electroporation (IRE), we evaluated the cellular sources of TGF-β1 and scar formation at the site of injury and examined in vitro whether the effects of TGF-β1 could be attenuated by pirfenidone. We observed that proliferation and α-smooth muscle actin expression by fibroblasts were restricted to injured tissue and coincided with proliferation of macrophages. Collagen deposition and scarring of the ureter were associated with increased TGF-β1 expression in both fibroblasts and macrophages. Using in vitro experiments, we demonstrated that macrophages stimulated by cells that were killed with IRE, but not LPS, secreted TGF-β1, consistent with a wound healing phenotype. Furthermore, using 3T3 fibroblasts, we demonstrated that stimulation with paracrine TGF-β1 is necessary and sufficient to promote differentiation of fibroblasts and increase collagen secretion. In vitro, we also showed that treatment with pirfenidone, which modulates TGF-β1 activity, limits proliferation and TGF-β1 secretion in macrophages and scar formation-related activity by fibroblasts. In conclusion, we identified wound healing-related macrophages to be an important source of TGF-β1 in the injured ureter, which may be a paracrine source of TGF-β1 driving scar formation by fibroblasts, resulting in stricture formation.
Regulation of Fn14 stability by SCFFbxw7α during septic acute kidney injury
Authors: Mo Shi-Jing , Zhang Wei , Liu Jing-Quan , Chen Min-Hua , Xu Liang , Hong Jun , Li Qian , Yang Xiang-Hong , Sun Ren-Hua , Hu Bang-Chuan
Published: April 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) initiated by sepsis remains a thorny problem despite recent advancements in its clinical management. Having been found to be activated during AKI, fibroblast growth factor-inducible molecule 14 (Fn14) may be a potential therapeutic target because of its involvement in the molecular basis of injury. Here, we report that LPS induces apoptosis of mouse cortical tubule cells mediated by Fn14, for which simultaneous Toll-like receptor (TLR)4 activation is required. Mechanistically, TLR4 activation by lipopolysaccharide, through disassociating E3 ligase SCFFbxw7α from Fn14, dismantles Lys48-linked polyubiquitination of Fn14 and stabilizes it. Pharmacological deactivation of Fn14 with monoclonal antibody ITEM-2 provides effective protection against lethal sepsis and AKI in mice. Our study underscores an adaptive mechanism whereby TLR4 regulates SCFFbxw7α-dependent Fn14 stabilization during inflammatory tubular damage and further supports investigation of targeting Fn14 in clinical trials of patients with septic AKI.
Transformation of vestibular signals for the decisions of hand choice during whole body motion
Authors: Bakker Romy S. , Selen Luc P. J. , Medendorp W. Pieter
Published: April 2019

In daily life, we frequently reach toward objects while our body is in motion. We have recently shown that body accelerations influence the decision of which hand to use for the reach, possibly by modulating the body-centered computations of the expected reach costs. However, head orientation relative to the body was not manipulated, and hence it remains unclear whether vestibular signals contribute in their head-based sensory frame or in a transformed body-centered reference frame to these cost calculations. To test this, subjects performed a preferential reaching task to targets at various directions while they were sinusoidally translated along the lateral body axis, with their head either aligned with the body (straight ahead) or rotated 18° to the left. As a measure of hand preference, we determined the target direction that resulted in equiprobable right/left-hand choices. Results show that head orientation affects this balanced target angle when the body is stationary but does not further modulate hand preference when the body is in motion. Furthermore, reaction and movement times were larger for reaches to the balanced target angle, resembling a competitive selection process, and were modulated by head orientation when the body was stationary. During body translation, reaction and movement times depended on the phase of the motion, but this phase-dependent modulation had no interaction with head orientation. We conclude that the brain transforms vestibular signals to body-centered coordinates at the early stage of reach planning, when the decision of hand choice is computed.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The brain takes inertial acceleration into account in computing the anticipated biomechanical costs that guide hand selection during whole body motion. Whereas these costs are defined in a body-centered, muscle-based reference frame, the otoliths detect the inertial acceleration in head-centered coordinates. By systematically manipulating head position relative to the body, we show that the brain transforms otolith signals into body-centered coordinates at an early stage of reach planning, i.e., before the decision of hand choice is computed.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on the Vertical Flow of Variable Density Fluid in Different Directions
Authors: Zhou Zhifang , Zhang Boran , Guo Qiaona , Zhu Shumei
Published: April 2019

Injecting freshwater and pumping salt water are effective methods to restore the salt water in a coastal area. Based on a one-dimensional vertical experiment, the variable density flow is simulated under the condition of different injection directions and injection rates of fresh water. A one-dimensional mathematical model of variable density flow and solute transport is established. The mathematical models are solved using the implicit difference method. Fortran code is developed to simulate and verify the vertical flow of variable density flow in different directions. Through both numerical simulation and experimental studies, it is found that the variable density fluid in the direction of reverse gravity is different from that in the direction of gravity. On this basis, the most effective desalination model of salt water is further discussed. It provides a theoretical and technical method for the restoration of salt water in the vertical injection of freshwater. In order to improve the remediation efficiency and reduce the cost in the engineering application, the suitable water injection rate should be ensured, considering the suitable construction time and zone of a study area.
The Impact of Pyroglutamate:Sulfolobus acidocaldariusHas a Growth Advantage overSaccharolobus solfataricusin Glutamate-Containing Media
Authors: Vetter Anna M. , Helmecke Julia , Schomburg Dietmar , Neumann-Schaal Meina
Published: April 2019

Microorganisms are well adapted to their habitat but are partially sensitive to toxic metabolites or abiotic compounds secreted by other organisms or chemically formed under the respective environmental conditions. Thermoacidophiles are challenged by pyroglutamate, a lactam that is spontaneously formed by cyclization of glutamate under aerobic thermoacidophilic conditions. It is known that growth of the thermoacidophilic crenarchaeonSaccharolobus solfataricus(formerlySulfolobus solfataricus) is completely inhibited by pyroglutamate. In the present study, we investigated the effect of pyroglutamate on the growth ofS. solfataricusand the closely related crenarchaeonSulfolobus acidocaldarius.In contrast toS. solfataricus,S. acidocaldariuswas successfully cultivated with pyroglutamate as a sole carbon source. Bioinformatical analyses showed that both members of theSulfolobaceaehave at least one candidate for a 5-oxoprolinase, which catalyses the ATP-dependent conversion of pyroglutamate to glutamate. InS. solfataricus, we observed the intracellular accumulation of pyroglutamate and crude cell extract assays showed a less effective degradation of pyroglutamate. Apparently,S. acidocaldariusseems to be less versatile regarding carbohydrates and prefers peptidolytic growth compared toS. solfataricus. Concludingly,S. acidocaldariusexhibits a more efficient utilization of pyroglutamate and is not inhibited by this compound, making it a better candidate for applications with glutamate-containing media at high temperatures.
Joint Pricing and Inventory Replenishment Decisions with Returns and Expediting under Reference Price Effects
Authors: Li Yuan , Hou Yumei
Published: April 2019

This paper considers a single‐item joint pricing and inventory replenishment problem under reference price effects in consecutive T periods. Demands in consecutive periods are sensitive to price and reference price with general demand distribution. At the end of each period, after the demand realization, a firm can return excess stocks to a supplier or place an expediting order to reduce the loss by shortage. Unfilled demands are fully backlogged. In order to maximize the total expected discounted profit with reference price effects the optimal pricing and inventory replenishment policies for regular order and the inventory adjustment decisions for returning/expediting are derived. The optimal replenishment policy for regular order is a base‐stock policy, the optimal pricing policy is a base‐stock‐list‐price policy, and the optimal policy for returning/expediting inventory adjustment follows a dual‐threshold policy. Furthermore, the analysis of the operational impacts (from the perspective of adding returning/expediting and reference price effects, respectively) is researched. Numerical results also show that considering both returning/expediting and reference price effects is more profitable than considering only one of them.
Diagnostic Agreement between Prehospital Emergency and In-Hospital Physicians
Authors: Ramadanov Nikolai , Klein Roman , Laue Fabian , Behringer Wilhelm
Published: April 2019

Background. The aim of the study was to determine the diagnostic agreement between the discharge diagnosis and the suspected diagnosis by the prehospital emergency physician and to run a sensitivity analysis of the most common diagnoses by the prehospital emergency physician. Methods. The diagnostic agreement was determined by a systematic comparison of the discharge diagnosis with suspected diagnosis by the prehospital emergency physician in a period of 24 months at the emergency medical services in Bad Belzig. The diagnostic agreement of the 13 most common discharge diagnoses was compared to the remaining diagnostic agreement. The results were tested for statistical significance using the chi-squared test. Results. In 64.1% of cases included, a diagnostic agreement occurred. There was a high proportion of diagnostic agreement for hypoglycemia (97%), atrial fibrillation (87%), cramping seizure (86%), hypertensive crisis (85.5%), and syncope (81%). There was a low proportion of diagnostic agreement for chest wall pain (27%), pneumonia (32%), and cardiac decompensation (53%). Conclusions. Our attention in practice and emergency medical courses should be directed to chest pain patients and the main symptom of dyspnea, because of the high proportion of incorrect diagnoses by the prehospital emergency physician. It should be noted that 92% of incorrectly diagnosed chest wall pain cases were overestimated with an acute coronary syndrome.
Cements, Waters, and Scales: An Integrated Study of the Szeged Geothermal Systems (SE Hungary) to Characterize Natural Environmental Conditions of the Thermal Aquifer
Authors: Varga Andrea , Bozsó Gábor , Garaguly István , Raucsik Béla , Bencsik Attila , Kóbor Balázs
Published: April 2019

The study area, Pannonian Basin (Central Europe), is characterized by high heat flow and presence of low-enthalpy geothermal waters. In the Szeged Geothermal Systems (Hungary), having Miocene to Pliocene sandstone aquifers with dominantly Na–HCO3-type thermal water, unwanted carbonate scaling was observed. An integrated approach consisting of host rock and scale mineralogical and petrographic analyses as well as water chemistry led to a better understanding of the characteristic natural (geogenic) environmental conditions of the geothermal aquifers and to highlight their technical importance. Analyses of the reservoir sandstones showed that they are mineralogically immature mixed carbonate-siliciclastic rocks with significant macroporosity. Detrital carbonate grains such as dolomite and limestone fragments appear as important framework components (up to ~20–25%). During water–rock interactions, they could serve as a potential source of the calcium and bicarbonate ions, contributing to the elevated scaling potential. Therefore, this sandstone aquifer cannot be considered as a conventional siliciclastic reservoir. In mudrocks, a significant amount of organic matter also occurs, triggering CO2producing reactions. Correspondingly, framboidal pyrite and ferroan calcite are the main cement minerals in all of the studied sandstone samples which can suggest that calcite saturation state of the thermal fluid is close to equilibrium in oxygen-depleted pore water. Analysis of the dominant carbonate crystals in the scale can suggest that growth of the feather dendrites of low-Mg calcite was probably driven by rapid CO2degassing of CO2-rich thermal water under far-from-equilibrium conditions. Based on hydrogeochemical data and related indices for scaling and corrosion ability, the produced bicarbonate-rich (up to 3180 mg/l) thermal water has a significant potential for carbonate scaling which supports the aforementioned statement. Taking into consideration our present knowledge of geological setting of the studied geothermal systems, temporal changes in chemical composition and temperature of the thermal water during the heating period can indicate upwelling fluids from a deep aquifer. Regarding the pre-Neogene basement, hydrologic contact with a Triassic carbonate aquifer might be reflected in the observed chemical features such as decreased total dissolved solids and increased bicarbonate content with high scale-forming ability. The proposed upflow of basin-derived water could be channeled by Neogene to Quaternary fault zones, including compaction effects creating fault systems above the elevated basement high. The results may help to understand the cause of the high carbonate scale precipitation rates in geothermal systems tapping sandstone aquifers.
Role of Radiation Therapy in Adult Extraskeletal Ewing’s Sarcoma Patients Treated with Chemotherapy and Surgery
Authors: Saiz Augustine M. , Gingrich Alicia A. , Canter Robert J. , Kirane Amanda R. , Monjazeb Arta M. , Randall R. Lor , Thorpe Steven W.
Published: April 2019

Radiation therapy (RT) is advocated in the multimodal treatment of high-grade soft tissue sarcoma (STS), but its role may be less clear in chemotherapy-sensitive STS such as extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma (EES). The purpose of this study was to determine the role of RT on overall survival (OS) in localized EES adult patients treated with chemotherapy and surgery. Adult patients diagnosed with EES and reported to the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2014 were evaluated. All patients were treated with surgical resection. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, treatments received, resection margins, and survival were examined for the 232 patients identified. Using multivariate analysis and Cox proportional hazard analysis, predictors of OS were determined. In the overall cohort, 40 percent of patients received RT and 78 percent received chemotherapy, with 31 percent receiving both. The addition of RT to the patients receiving surgery + chemotherapy did not improve OS (p<0.05). Twenty-four percent of patients who achieved R0 resection after surgery still received RT without any improvement in OS. Patients treated at community cancer centers were more likely to receive additional RT compared with Comprehensive Cancer Centers (p<0.05). In adult EES patients with localized disease treated with chemotherapy and surgery, the addition of RT does not improve overall survival.
Effects of β-Cyclodextrin and Sodium Ascorbate on the Chemical Compositions and Sensory Quality of Instant Green Tea Powder during Storage
Authors: Zhang Yan-Hong , Chen Gen-Sheng , Chen Jian-Xin , Liu Zheng-Quan , Yu Liao-Yuan , Yin Jun-Feng , Xu Yong-Quan
Published: April 2019

The physicochemical changes of the instant green tea powders added with β-cyclodextrin and sodium ascorbate stored at 4°C and 25°C were investigated by determining moisture, polyphenols, caffeine, amino acids, catechins, color, sensory quality, and the total microbial count. The results showed that addition of both β-cyclodextrin (6%, w/w) and sodium ascorbate (2%, w/w) reduced the changes of moisture, polyphenols, and catechins contents, helped to maintain the sensory quality, and limited the microbial count. The low temperature (4°C) was also found to maintain the sensory quality and limit of the microbial count of instant green tea powder. The combination of low temperature and addition of β-cyclodextrin with sodium ascorbate were the best treatment for the storage of instant green tea powder. These results could provide useful information for the quality improvement of instant green tea powder during storage.
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation as an Initial Manifestation of Metastatic Prostate Cancer Emergently Treated with Docetaxel-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Agrawal Kavita , Agrawal Nirav , Miles Levin
Published: April 2019

A 70-year-old male presented with hematuria and bruising of arms and legs for the last three days. He also complained of urinary frequency and hesitancy and weight loss of 40 pounds over a span of four months. Initial blood tests showed prothrombin time (PT) of 25.1 seconds, international normalized ratio (INR) of 2.5, partial thromboplastin time (PTT) of 43.9 seconds, fibrinogen of 60 mg/dl, fibrin degradation products (FDP) of more than 20 μg/ml, and platelets of 88,000/μl. The impression was disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). A search was initiated to determine the underlying etiology precipitating DIC. Due to urinary symptoms and weight loss, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was ordered. PSA was elevated at 942 μg/dl. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis without contrast showed an enlarged prostate with mass effect on the bladder base, left-sided hydronephrosis, and numerous enlarged pelvic lymph nodes. A bone scan of the whole body showed increased sclerosis of the L3 vertebral body. There was a concern for metastatic prostate cancer precipitating DIC. On first admission, our patient’s DIC was stabilized with FFP and cryoprecipitate transfusions. He refused chemotherapy, and degarelix was not economically feasible. Accordingly, he was started on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), bicalutamide, and leuprolide as an inpatient, pending the tissue biopsy. The patient refused a prostate biopsy. A bone marrow biopsy was performed which confirmed metastatic prostate adenocarcinoma. The patient was stable for discharge with a plan for outpatient chemotherapy. Subsequently, he was lost to follow-up with the oncology. Six months after the initial presentation, he was readmitted with hematuria. Repeat PSA worsened to 1,970 μg/dl. Blood work was consistent with acute DIC. He refused chemotherapy again. So, he was restarted on ADT. However, his hematuria and DIC panel were worsening. He was emergently started on docetaxel as an inpatient (after patient agreement). Within three days of starting chemotherapy, his hematuria resolved and DIC panel showed consistent improvement.
An Improved Long Short‐Term Memory Model for Dam Displacement Prediction
Authors: Zhang Jun , Cao Xiyao , Xie Jiemin , Kou Pangao
Published: April 2019

Displacement plays a vital role in dam safety monitoring data, which adequately responds to security risks such as the flood water pressure, extreme temperature, structure deterioration, and bottom bedrock damage. To make accurate predictions, former researchers established various models. However, these models’ input variables cannot efficiently reflect the delays between the external environment and displacement. Therefore, a long short‐term memory (LSTM) model is proposed to make full use of the historical data to reflect the delays. Furthermore, the LSTM model is improved to optimize the performance by making variables more physically reasonable. Finally, a real‐world radial displacement dataset is used to compare the performance of LSTM models, multiple linear regression (MLR), multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural networks, support vector machine (SVM), and boosted regression tree (BRT). The results indicate that (1) the LSTM models can efficiently reflect the delays and make the variables selection more convenient and (2) the improved LSTM model achieves the best performance by optimizing the input form and network structure based on a clearer physical meaning.
On Perimeters and Volumes of Fattened Sets
Authors: Mennucci Andrea C. G.
Published: April 2019

In this paper we analyze the shape of fattened sets; given a compact set C⊂RN let Cr be its r-fattened set; we prove a general bound rP(Cr)≤NL({Cr∖C}) between the perimeter of Cr and the Lebesgue measure of Cr∖C. We provide two proofs: one elementary and one based on Geometric Measure Theory. Note that, by the Flemin–Rishel coarea formula, P(Cr) is integrable for r∈(0,a). We further show that for any integrable continuous decreasing function ψ:(0,1/2)→(0,∞) there exists a compact set C⊂RN such that P(Cr)≥ψ(r). These results solve a conjecture left open in (Mennucci and Duci, 2015) and provide new insight in applications where the fattened set plays an important role.
Crosstalk between Calcium and ROS in Pathophysiological Conditions
Authors: Feno Simona , Butera Gaia , Vecellio Reane Denis , Rizzuto Rosario , Raffaello Anna
Published: April 2019

Calcium ions are highly versatile intracellular signals that regulate many cellular processes. The key to achieving this pleiotropic role is the spatiotemporal control of calcium concentration evoked by an extensive molecular repertoire of signalling components. Among these, reactive oxygen species (ROS) signalling, together with calcium signalling, plays a crucial role in controlling several physiopathological events. Although initially considered detrimental by-products of aerobic metabolism, it is now widely accepted that ROS, in subtoxic levels, act as signalling molecules. However, dysfunctions in the mechanisms controlling the physiological ROS concentration affect cellular homeostasis, leading to the pathogenesis of various disorders.
A Case of Terson-Like Syndrome in a Patient with Viral Meningoencephalitis
Authors: Asahi Masumi G. , Weiss Stephanie J. , Peddada Krishi , Malik Deepika
Published: April 2019

The proposed mechanism of Terson’s syndrome is increased intracranial pressure that leads to dilation of the retrobulbar optic nerve and compression of the central retinal vein. Terson’s syndrome has been associated with many conditions that increase intracranial pressure such as venous sinus thrombosis, Moyamoya disease, leukemia, direct head trauma, and intraocular hemorrhage related to shaken baby syndrome. We present a novel case of a patient with recent viral prodrome found to have papilledema and multilayered retinal hemorrhages consistent with Terson syndrome. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance venography of the brain did not reveal any subdural, subarachnoid, or intracranial hemorrhages. However, cerebrospinal fluid analyses were significant for increased opening pressure and elevated protein levels, which were suggestive of viral meningoencephalitis. We describe this case as a Terson-like syndrome because the etiology of intraocular hemorrhage is increased intracranial pressure. However, this case does not fit the traditional presentation of Terson’s syndrome as the intracranial pressure is secondary to meningeal inflammation instead of subdural, subarachnoid, or intracranial hemorrhage. We strongly feel that it is important for physicians to be aware of the link between viral meningoencephalitis and retinal conditions such as Terson-like syndrome because it can facilitate rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Role of Ancillary Techniques in Fluid Cytology
Authors: Yu Gordon H. , Glaser Laurel J. , Gustafson Karen S.
Published: April 2019

The cytologic evaluation of serous effusions may be challenging for a number of reasons. Distinction of benign, reactive conditions from malignancy represents the main focus when examining these specimens. The morphologic diagnosis of malignancy may be difficult due to the relative paucity of abnormal cells. In other situations, cellularity is not an issue, but the ability to confidently identify a second, foreign (i.e., tumor) population within a background mesothelial cells on the basis of cytomorphologic features alone may pose problems. Cases with definitive morphologic evidence of malignancy may require additional studies in order to determine the tumor subtype and, in the case of carcinoma, the primary site of origin. Cases in which a definitive and precise diagnosis of malignancy is made may be optimal candidates for further molecular testing in order to gain prognostic information and guide personal therapeutic decisions. Finally, while an inflammatory or infectious condition can be suggested on the basis of cellular components and associated background elements, the identification of causative agent(s) may be difficult without additional studies. In all of these situations, the use of ancillary studies and techniques is critical; their utility and appropriate application are the subject of this review.
The Protective Roles of Folic Acid in Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy Are Potentially Associated with Suppressions on Angiogenesis, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Lei Xun-Wen , Li Qiang , Zhang Jin-Zhi , Zhang Yue-Mei , Liu Yang , Yang Ke-Hu
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of folic acid (FA) on diabetic retinopathy (DR) in a genetic mouse model of obese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). C57BL/KsJ-db/db (db/db) T2D mice were divided into control, FA, metformin (MET), and FA plus MET groups (n = 10/group). Serum levels of glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and insulin were determined weekly. The retinal thickness was measured using optical coherence tomography (OCT) at 4 weeks after treatments. The retinal expression and serum levels of vascular formation, inflammation, and oxidative stress-associated molecules were examined. Our results demonstrated that FA, but not MET, played a protective role against retinal thinning in the early stage of DR in db/db mice, although FA did not exhibit antihyperglycemic effect. In addition, retinal expression and serum levels of a panel of molecules associated with angiogenesis (CD31 and VEGFR), inflammation (IL-1β and NLRP3), and oxidative stress (3-NT, 4-HNE, Vav2, and NOX4) were significantly downregulated in FA-treated diabetic mice compared with those in saline-treated controls. Furthermore, the serum level of homocysteine was also markedly decreased following FA treatments. These findings suggest that through potential suppressions on angiogenesis, inflammation, and oxidative stress, FA may serve as a potential therapeutic agent against DR.
The Impacts of Chemopoly-Edutainment to Learning Activities and Responses
Authors: Sari Sri Adelila , Jasmidi Jasmidi , Kembaren Agus , Sudrajat Ajat
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this study was to alleviate the problem of student learning activities through the use of innovative chemistry learning media, namely chemopoly-edutainment. This type of research was a pre-experimental study. The approach used was descriptive qualitative approach. This research has been done in Medan State University in 2017 year. The selection of research subjects was done by purposive sampling, i.e., Chemistry Department students as many as 36 people. Data were collected using observation sheet to measure learning activities. Then, students' responses were measured using a questionnaire. The results showed that learning about chemicals separation by using chemopoly-edutainment media could help students to be more active in learning. The activeness of students in the highly active category was found at 77.16 percent. While active students learn was reached 20.68 percent. In addition, found as many as 2.16 percent of students who were quite active. The study also found that none of the students were less active or inactive in teaching and learning activities using the chemopoly-edutainment medium. The students’ responses to the use of chemopoly-eudtainment media on chemical separation learning was also found to be positive.
The Preparedness of Russian Schoolchildren for Liberal Arts Education
Authors: Ilushin Leonid S. , Azbel Anastasia A. , Freese Michael D.
Published: April 2019

The article reveals data from a questionnaire of 16-17 year old Russian pupils about their experience of managing free time and using educational choice in the school. The authors compare the obtained results with the values of liberal arts education, gaining significance in Russian universities. The study shows that the principles and practices of liberal arts are in deficit even in advanced and innovative Russian schools.
The Comparison of Students Achievement by the College Entrance Lane at the Teachers Training and Education Faculty of Syiah Kuala University
Authors: Amiruddin Amiruddin , Zulfadhli Zulfadhli , Husna Asmaul
Published: April 2019

The study aims to determine differences in the achievement of students who pass the National Selection of State Universities (SNMPTN), the Selection of Joint Entrance State University (SBMPTN), and the Joint Entrance examination (UMB) at the Faculty of Teachers Training and Education (FKIP) at the University of Syiah Kuala. The study used descriptive method with a quantitative approach. The population in this study were all FKIP Unsyiah students entering university in 2013 that passed the SNMPTN, SBMPTN, and UMB. The population pool was as many as 1,038 students with 289 students selected for the sample using the Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling technique. The One Way Anova Test was used for data analysis followed by a Least Significance Difference (LSD) test. Hypothesis in this research is there are differences in the achievement of FKIP Unsyiah students passed through SNMPTN, SBMPTN, and UMB. The results showed that the achievement of FKIP Unsyiah students who passed through the SBMPTN had average GPAs of 3.46, 3.32 for the SNMPTN and 3.36 for the UMB. Based on the results, it can be concluded that students who pass the SBMPTN had greater achievement than student who pass the SNMPTN and UMB.
The Effect of War to the Nigerian Educational Activities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bakar Zainudin Abu , Rabiu Darma Kabiru
Published: April 2019

War is the leading cause of destruction to educational sector in Nigeria, in particular, the primary and secondary school education system. The focused of this review is to examine how the war affects the entire educational system of Nigeria by leading to the prevalence of numerous problems that hinder the successful achievement for “Educational for All” and the new Millennium Development Goal. The exploration activities of related references on the effect of war were systematically guided by PRISMA Statement which consists of a 27-item checklist and a four-phase flow diagram. The Prisma Diagram Generator was also utilized to generate the process of scrutinizing the articles. The end results render Nigeria as backward and the poverty-stricken nation that made it very difficult to support and sustain its educational sector according to global standard as enshrined by UNICEF.
The Teaching Material Development of Problem Based Learning: Improving students' civic knowledge
Authors: Wulandari Tita , Suharno Suharno , Triyanto Triyanto
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this research is to know the teaching material condition in classes and the need of PBL-based on civic education; to know the development of PBL-based civic education; to know the effectiveness of PBL-based civic education for fourth-grade students of elementary school as textbooks to improve students’ civic knowledge. This book is written based on PBL syntax as a student learning activity. The method of this research uses Borg and Gall techniques modified by Sukmadinata which consists of three namely preliminary study, product development, and product effectiveness test. The result of this research is the necessary analysis on preliminary study. It shows that the civic material based on PBL is needed in the teaching learning process as a companion book. The validation result in product development trials indicates appropriateness. In the effectiveness experiment shows that there are differences and get it if the development between pre-test and posttest in the experiment class is more than control class. Therefore, the teaching material civic education is highly effective to improve the civic knowledge of students.
The Influences Virtual Physics Laboratory (VPL) For Assessment the Millennial Character Education through System Recording Students Character (SRSC)
Authors: Wibowo Firmanul Catur , Nurhaji Soffan , Setiawan Agus , Sugiyarto Wisnu Ardlian , Faizin M. Noor , Darman Dina Rahmi , Samsudin Achmad , Suhandi Andi , Coştu Bayram
Published: April 2019

Virtual Laboratory are frequently measured effective learning tools, meanwhile their visual and concept power empower students to better known physical structures and phenomena. However, in previous research has not been much developed Virtual Physics Laboratory that is used to measure the character education of students. This research aims to Influences and apply Virtual Physics Laboratory (VPL) for assessment millennial character education with System Recording Students Character (SRSC). The study focused on the VPL Conceptual Change of Character Education test results. The sample consisted of 60 students’ whose age ranging from 20 to 21 years old with research design Randomized post-test only experiment group. Data to draw conclusions of research results, collected through the provision of concept tests. Conceptual Change data of Character Education that will be obtained from both groups are searched for the average Gain. Specific targets to be achieved in this research are innovations in the development of assessment tools that are valid and easy to use and can be done with Virtual Physics Laboratory for assessment millennial character education with System Recording Students Character can be done anytime and not limited by time. The result of the research showed that the N-gain mastery of the experimental group concept was 0,33 (32,6%) The conclusions of VPL with SRSC research can be used in the evaluation of physics learning because of the quality of the material according to expert judgment in the category of "excellent" and effective in facilitating assessment to character education of students.
The mathematics teachers' understanding of learning process based on 2013 curriculum 2017 revision
Authors: Latif Ikhsan Abdul , Riyadi Riyadi , Saputro Dewi Retno Sari
Published: April 2019

This study is a qualitative research with case study strategy that aims to describe the understanding of Mathematics teacher about the learning process based on 2013 Curriculum (K13) 2017 Revision. The subjects of this study are a Mathematics teacher who has status as a Civil Servant and Honorary at SMAN 1 Wuryantoro, Wonogiri Regency. The result of this study is generally, the understanding of the two Mathematics teachers about the learning process based on K13 2017 Revision have been appropriate to the guidelines K13 2017 Revision by the Ministry of Education and Culture of Indonesia. However, the Honorary teacher's understanding of the learning process has not been appropriate to the Assessment Guidelines by Educators and the High School Education.
Teaching tourism in geography through an inquiry-based approach (IBA)
Authors: Basar Norsarita , Jawawi Rosmawijah , Matzin Rohani , Jaidin Jainatul Halida , Musa Juraidah
Published: April 2019

An Inquiry-based approach (IBA) is a teaching approach that promotes students' active learning and inquiry. This study examined the effectiveness of IBA as a tool for teaching Geography and explored the students' perceptions when they were taught using IBA. The investigation was carried out in one secondary school in Brunei Darussalam. A total of twenty students aged between 15 to 16 years old were selected as participants. This research adopted a qualitative approach using an action research. Data was collected from lesson observations, focus group interview, and achievement tests. The findings showed that there were remarkable improvements in the students' achievement tests. IBA successfully had helped students to develop some personal and inter-personal skills and encouraged them to become independent learners. However, there were some issues identified in this study. Obtaining information for their research was a challenge for many students, as they had limited access to computers and the Internet outside the school. The findings also revealed that the role of the teacher as the facilitator in IBA could be a challenge to the teacher herself.
Performance of a vector control for DFIG driven by wind turbine: real time simulation using DS1104 controller board
Authors: Mensou Sara , Essadki Ahmed , Minka Issam , Nasser Tamou , Bououlid Idrissi Badr , Ben Tarla Lahssan
Published: April 2019

In this research paper we investigate the modelling and control of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) driven in rotation by wind turbine, the control objectives is to optimize capture wind, extract the maximum of the power generated to the grid using MPPT algorithm (Maximum Power Point Tracking) and have a specified reactive power generated whatever wind speed variable, the indirect field oriented control IFOC with the PI correctors was used to achieve such as decoupled control. To validate the dynamique performance of our controller the whole system was simulated using dSPACE DS1104 Controller board Real Time Interface (RTI) which runs in Simulink/MATLAB software and ControlDesk 4.2 graphical interfaces.
Comparison of multiple modulation techniques for various topologies of multilevel converters for single phase AC motor drive
Authors: Alsaqal Laith M. Akram , Alnaib Ahmed M. T. Ibraheem , Mahmood Omar Talal
Published: April 2019

There are various types of Multilevel Converters (MCs) in addition to various types of modulation techniques for these types of MCs; the challenges in selecting the best one of them with regard to the amount of the required of components, and its harmonics content. So, a comparison study among these types has been done in this paper. For comparison study, the simulation of seven level of two popular topologies of MCs: Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) converter, and Cascaded-MCs were carried out with Matlab/Simulink software program. These converters are used to drive a single phase capacitor start motor drive. Multicarrier modulation control techniques are used for controlling the MCs; these techniques involve two main type: Level Shifted Carrier (LSC), and Phase Shifted Carrier (PSC). The comparison is made with respect to the performance factors as, the amplitude of  the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), and the DC-bus utilization performance which measured by Root Mean Square of the output voltage Vrms at variable modulation indices and variable carrier frequency. Based on simulation results it's found, that the cascaded-MC with PSC modulation method gives best results, in addition to the Alternative Phase Opposition Disposition APOD-LSC modulation technique (with even number of modulation frequency) generate the output voltage with a lower harmonic content compared with the other techniques.
A three phase photovoltaic grid tied inverter system control based on t-s fuzzy equalization
Authors: Abed Jameel Kaduim
Published: April 2019

This paper proposed a Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy control method is used to build the model for current controlled of three phase photovoltaic inverter. The three phase inverter connected to grid with L filter. The DC link capacitor is splatted midpoint of three phase four wire and the DC link voltage in the input side of the inverter is considered as input variables value for maximum value of the reference current for the feedback controlled. The proposed of T-S fuzzy control method and hysteresis current control can solve and enhance the THD of the output current of the inverter. The T-S fuzzy is designed to monochrome controller makes the output currents are balanced and decrease the harmonic compensation of the full system. The Matlab simulations and test results show the THD, current and the voltage of the three photovoltaic inverter under T-S fuzzy controller method is current balancing efficiency. The control unit is capable of carrying out operation in good condition, dynamic characteristics stable and high quality.
Efficiency enhancement of solar PV powered micro-integrated high frequency isolated vehicle battery charging converter
Authors: Marimuthu Jawahar , V Jayasankar , K Karthik Kumar , S Edward Rajan
Published: April 2019

This Paper proposes a method to improve the efficiency of charging the battery used in autonomous electric vehicle powered by foldable roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) generation system. The conventional vehicle battery charging application from solar PV consists of a boost converter in the frontend followed by a full bridge converter with discrete switches. Here an attempt is made on the total scheme with a micro integrated package to have better conversion efficiency with high power density. The total system is controlled digitally incorporating zero voltage transition (ZVT) in the full bridge conversion. A typical specification with a power level of 300-400 W was targeted and achieved.