bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Permanence of Change
Authors: Mahmoudi Hoda
Published: June 2018

This paper examines social change and modernity through the two lenses of the Bahá’í Faith and sociology. Premised on the vital role of religion in effecting social change, it progresses in three parts. First, it examines the sociohistorical changes of the Axial Age, and the forces which brought about the Renaissance and Reformation. Second, it reviews some of the sociological views on modernity, tracing its contemporary challenges. Finally, it outlines the key features of modernity as identified in the Bahá’í writings and considers the Bahá’í perspective of modernity as “the universal awakening of historical consciousness,” wherein Divine Civilization is the essential impetus for advancing and transforming material civilization.
How Bahá’í Voters Should Vote
Authors: Abizadeh Arash
Published: June 2018

Two widespread misconceptions among Bahá’ís are that, according to Shoghi Effendi, (a) Bahá’í voters should not discuss how they should vote prior to Bahá’í elections and (b) the only relevant criteria for voting are the qualifications of the individuals voted for. Shoghi Effendi in fact suggests that Bahá’í voters should discuss the criteria for voting, but without reference to particular individuals. Moreover, he provides four different types of criteria that voters should consider: criteria concerning (1) the qualifications of individual Assembly members, (2) the collective makeup of the Assembly as a whole, (3) changes in the individual Assembly members over time, and (4) changes in the collective makeup of the Assembly over time.
Enacting Thought
Authors: Hanson Holly
Published: June 2018

This paper argues that in the Writings of the Central Figures of the Bahá’í Faith, social structures are viewed as embodiments of thought which gather substance through generations of human decision making. The processes that create both injustice and justice are gradual, almost imperceptible in their operation, and they shape our reality. Oppressive social structures are the result of generations of selfinterest, while social structures which facilitate justice result from deliberate, continuous effort to implement the will of God. Two examples, one of political transformation and one of economic transformation, illustrate this argument. The paper outlines the history of political practice in Uganda over three centuries, then examines the transformations of productive activity in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century England which strongly influenced industrial capitalism.
Destiny and Freedom in the Bahá’í Writings
Authors: Savi Julio
Published: June 2018

The 28th Hasan M. Balyuzi Memorial Lecture
To know the boundaries of one’s destiny and freedom and, especially, to know how the latter can be best used are two very common aspirations among human beings. This paper will comment upon a number of relevant, mainly officially translated, Writings, some untranslated Tablets, as well as a few talks by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and interpretations by Shoghi effendi. human destiny is a mystery and only the true seeker can obtain an insight into it. Life itself will assist him in this endeavor. Human beings are free, and yet their lives are regulated by the decrees of God, both irrevocable and revocable decrees. a man best uses his freedom, if he understands God’s will and makes a disciplined effort to fulfill it in his daily life, with radiant acquiescence.
Bahá’í Physicians
Authors: Mahmoudi Hoda , Teckie Gloria
Published: June 2018

This paper provides a preliminary overview of some issues relevant to the role of the Bahá’í physician in the practice of medicine and the delivery of health care, taking into account the spiritual dimension of being human as an inseparable aspect of the relationship between medical intervention and health. The authors examine aspects of good medical care including an appreciation of the interactions between—and treatment of—mind, soul, and body; patients’ role and responsibility toward maintaining their own health and for choosing a competent physician; the comprehensive nature of the physician–patient relationship; functions and responsibilities of the Bahá’í physician; and the role of physicians within the health care system and the Bahá’í approach to development and health care delivery.
Identity, Discourse, and Policy
Authors: Weinberg Matthew
Published: June 2018

It is through interchange that individuals and the communities they compose are able to define their identities and their long-term goals. In this sense, human life has a “fundamentally dialogical character.” New models of social transformation will emerge only from a change in consciousness about who we are, how we regard others who enter our ambit—no matter how near or distant—and how we collectively design the structures and processes of social life, whether local or global. Giving full consideration to the multiple dimensions of human experience in public discourse can give rise to new social meanings and expand policy dialogues beyond narrow conceptual boundaries.
“PEPRADASE” PELATIHAN PRAKTIKUM BIOLOGI DENGAN ALAT DAN BAHAN SEDERHANA
Authors: Lubis Fitri Agustina , Lubis Jalilah Azizah , Lubis Mutiara
Published: June 2018

Objectives of the Activity This training is expected to be more creative in teaching practicum and teaching planning by applying the right strategy to develop teachers' creativity in using simple tools and materials when practicum and student interest to learn more in improving scholarship in biology learning. This devotion is done in SMA Negeri 5 Kota Padangsidimpuan, the time of implementation is adjusted to the MGMP Teacher - High School Biology subject. This dedication is executed for two months from January - February 2017 where the activities are done for four days in thedifferentperiod.The result of this teaching materials development workshop is that the teachers of Biology at SMA Kota Padangsidimpuan have gained much motivation, related information / knowledge in developing lesson plan and making of practicum with simple materials also predicted in the future the teachers of Biology especially in SMA are able develop simple practice materials on their own.Keywords: Training, Development of RPP, Simple Practicum.
PELATIHAN BERBAHASA INGGRIS DENGAN DRILLING DAN REPETITION BAGI KARANG TARUNA DESA JEDONG
Authors: Andy Andy , Rusfandi Rusfandi , Muzammil Lasim
Published: June 2018

From the result of situation analysis and partner’s problem, pengabdi (society service) team gives a solution to enlarge the opportunity for karangtaruna (youth association) to be accepted to work upon the graduation of Vocational High School. The solution is formulated in the form of a workshop and coaching for karangtaruna members (youth association) to practice English verbal proficiency by drilling and repetition method. At the end of this society service, the results are (1) Positive response and enthusiasm from youth association in Jedong village Wagir district. (2) Improved awareness of the benefit of English verbal proficiency. (3) Willingness to take a risk in participating. (4) Improved glossary, grammar, pronunciation,and spelling of verbal English and not ambiguous. (5) Improved chance to listen to native speaker’s voice recording. (6) Improved chance to practice verbal English in the monologue (self-introduction), in pairs and mingle (talking in turns with all participants in a dynamic and fun/not boringatmosphere. (7) Learning media with mp3 native speaker voice recording becomes available. (8) Youth association members can be facilitated to listen to native speaker’s voice recording, imitating and independent self-practice in their spare time. (9) Online webs become accessible to browse and download learning media files for future learning after this society service comes to its end. Keywords:Drilling and Repetition, Improving Verbal English Proficiency.
PELATIHAN OLAHAN SAWI HIJAU UNTUK MENUMBUHKAN JIWA WIRAUSAHA PADA KELOMPOK WANITA TANI MT AL MUHAJIRIN DI KELURAHAN TAMALANREA JAYA
Authors: Darwis Khaeriyah , Anwar Andi Rahayu
Published: June 2018

Training of the processed green mustard aims to build the entrepreneurship spirit of MT Al Muhajirin mothers with the utilization of processed green mustard food which, if developed to long-term, will foster a productive economy that can increase family income. Also, it is expected later KWT MT Al Muhajirin able to form a Trade Business that produces green mustard chips and ice cream. The activity of dedication to the community of KWT MT Al Muhajirin is done by the method of training in practice and theory. For two days, community members are invited to understand the purpose, benefits,and application of processed green mustard as nutritious food ingredients and economic value. Presentation of learning materials related to the importance of community empowerment through the independent learning process, this group is conducted by the material, objectives and practical benefits of each theme. In the last session, community service activities are presented demonstrations of cooking food, process the green mustardinto chips and ice cream is healthy, practical and favored by all walks of life. The process of processing the green mustard greens as raw materials for obtaining these types of food is done by the method of demonstration while providing explanations that must be mastered when will process the green mustard into healthy food for the family, and economic value. Keywords:Entrepreneurship, Green Mustard Processed, Green Mustard ice cream.
On optimal periodic solution of differential equations
Authors: Geem Methaq Hamza
Published: June 2018

this paper dedicated to the construction of solution of a three time scale periodic singular perturbed non-linear quadratic optimal control problem by using the direct method. The algorithm of the method is the direct substitution of the postulated asymptotic expansion of the solution of the problem and then by the conditions of the problem we constructed of a series of problem and find terms of the asymptotic. We find the solution by using the Hamilton's function and maximum principle
TENDENCJE ROZWOJU RYNKU NOWOCZESNYCH USŁUG BIZNESOWYCH W POLSCE
Authors: Budner Waldemar W
Published: June 2018

Globalizacja prowadzi do integracji i współzależności państw. Towarzyszy jej tworzenie nowych instytucji, których działalność przekracza granice państwowe. W ostatnich kilkunastu latach na świecie rozwija się dynamicznie rynek nowoczesnych usług biznesowych. W artykule przedstawiono tendencje rozwoju nowoczesnych centrów usług biznesowych w Polsce. Pokazano dynamikę zmian w tym sektorze z prognozą na rok 2017. Określono motywy decyzji inwestorów zagranicznych o lokalizacji centrów outsourcingowych oraz ich związek z rozwojem rynku nieruchomości biurowych. Branża stała się też swoistym motorem napędzającym rynek nowoczesnych nieruchomości biurowych. Powstało prawie 1000 centrów usług, w których stworzono ponad 200 tys. nowych miejsc pracy.
Effect of Monochromatic Light on Plasma and Mrna Levels of Luteinising Hormone, Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, and their Receptors in the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonadal Axis of Pigeons
Authors: Ying Wang , Yang-bai Li , Hai-ming Yang , Zhi-yue Wang
Published: June 2018

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of monochromatic light on luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations, LH and FSH mRNA levels, and mRNA levels of their receptors (LHR and FSHR) in Pigeons (Columba livia). A total of 60 paired adult White King pigeons were randomly divided into four groups; each group was exposed to violet light (VL), green light (GL), red light (RL), or white light for 16 h. Nine paired pigeons from each group were selected for analysis of FSH and LH concentrations and six paired pigeons from each group were selected for analysis of mRNA. The results showed that the concentration of LH in females was lower in the VL group (P<0.05), and in males, it was lower in the VL and GL groups (P<0.05). The concentration of FSH in females was significantly higher in the RL group than in the VL group (P<0.05), whereas no significant difference was observed in males (P>0.05). In females, the LH and FSH mRNA levels were relatively high in the pituitary gland, whereas LHR and FSHR mRNA levels were relatively high in the ovary. In males, the LH, LHR, FSH, and FSHR mRNA levels were high in the pituitary gland, whereas their respective mRNA levels were relatively low in the testis. These results suggest that RL has the potential to improve LH and FSH concentrations and mRNA levels, and indicates that RL could promote reproductive performance of pigeons.
Callus Induction and Plant Regeneration from Leaf Segments of Unique Tropical Woody Plant Parasponia andersonii Planch
Authors: Knyazev Aleksey , Kuluev Bulat , Vershinina Zilya , Chemeris Aleksey
Published: June 2018

The purpose of the present study was to develop effective methods for callus induction, shoot regeneration, and rooting for Parasponia andersonii. Leaf explants of P. andersonii were placed on Lloyd and McCown’s (WPM) medium supplemented with various concentrations of TDZ and NAA for callus induction. Callus induction was observed on media containing 0.1 - 0.2 mg/l TDZ with 0.05 mg/l NAA. Maximum shoot regeneration was observed when the calluses were cultured on MS supplemented with TDZ and IBA. Shoots cultured on WPM medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/l IBA had the maximum rooting percentage (100) in 3 weeks. Rooted plants were transplanted to a potting mixture containing vermiculite (50%) and peat (50%) (v/v). After 2 months, more than 20% of plants survived and were transferred to the greenhouse. Thus, a new effective method has been developed for P. andersonii micropropagation that can be used in studies of plant-Rhizobium symbiosis and for the generation of transgenic Parasponia plants.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 28(1): 45-55, 2018 (June)
Clonal Propagation and Karyomorphological Study of Solanum torvum Swartz: An Ethnobotanical Species of Tripura, India
Authors: Singha H Reshmi , Sinha Sangram , Sinha Rabindra Kumar
Published: June 2018

An efficient method of clonal propagation through nodal culture of Solanum torvum Swartz. is described. Different concentrations of BAP/Kn alone or in combination with IAA were tested for direct shoot bud induction and proliferation. Lower concentration of BAP/Kn alone produced better shoot proliferation and elongation. Maximum number of shoot proliferation was achieved from MS supplemented with Kn 0.5 mg/l with an average 4.0 ± 1.41 shoots during 28 days of culture. Addition of IAA to the culture media in combination with BAP/ Kn significantly reduced the number of shoot formation. Regenerated plants also produced roots during subsequent culture in the same media supplemented with BAP/Kn alone or in combination with IAA. The easy nature of in vitro rooting of S. torvum was recorded without any separate root induction phase. Regenerated plants were successfully transferred to the field condition. Clonal feature was cytologically confirmed through the study of mitotic metaphase chromosomes of regenerated plants which reveals 2n = 24 somatic chromosomes. Comparative karyomorphological details between the mother and regenerated plants of S. torvum revealed close similarity in their chromosomal complements and falls under the category of "1B" Stebbin’s symmetric index suggesting true to type nature of the regenerated plant.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 28(1): 69-76, 2018 (June)
Efficient Plant Regeneration Through Protocorm-like Bodies Derived from Shoot Tip Cultures of Vanilla planifolia Andr.
Authors: Jose Vimala , Babu K Nirmal
Published: June 2018

A protocol for obtaining a ready source of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) was developed in Vanilla planifolia. MS containing BA 1 mg/l, IBA 0.5 mg/l, tryptone/peptone 2 g/l and 2% sucrose was used to induce PLBs from axillary bud explants. PLB formation from the shoot/root tips involved the direct conversion of the apices without an intermediate callus stage. PLBs either directly developed into plantlet or produced secondary protocorm like bodies. Thin cell layer culture of protocorm like bodies can be used as a commercial application of tissue culture technology for mass micro-propagation. The details of production of PLBs and their transformations in culture are also discussed. The plantlets derived from PLB were rooted in culture and established in the field after hardening.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 28(1): 91-98, 2018 (June)
Endogenous Bacterial Contamination of Plant Tissue Culture Materials: Identification and Control Strategy
Authors: Ali Mohammad , Boonerjee Shefali , Islam Mohammad Nurul , Saha Mihir Lal , Hoque M Imdadul , Sarker Rakha Hari
Published: June 2018

The endogenous bacterial contamination of plant tissue culture materials and their possible control was studied. Nine bacterial isolates were isolated from the contaminated tissue culture materials viz. potato and tea. On the basis of morphology and biochemical characters of nine isolates, seven were identified as Gram positive belonging to Bacillus alcalophilus, B. circulans, B. infantis, B. lentus, B. schlegelii, B. pumilus and B. subtilis. Remaining two were Gram negative and identified as Enterobacter cloacae sub. sp. dissolvens and Pantoea agglomerans. Molecular analysis was conducted on the basis of 16S rDNA sequence to confirm three isolates. Culture and sensitivity test was carried out to screen out the antibiotic sensitivity where streptomycin (S-10), polymyxin (PB-300) and gentamicin (CN-120) antibiotics were found to be effective against all bacterial isolates. The culture and sensitivity test reflected the feasibility to control or eliminate the contaminant bacteria during in vitro culture of plant which is very much required in the commercial tissue culture production.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 28(1): 99-108, 2018 (June)
Microwave, Ultrasound, and Mechanochemistry: Unconventional Tools that Are Used to Obtain “Smart” Catalysts for CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Manzoli Maela , Bonelli Barbara
Published: June 2018

The most recent progress obtained through the precise use of enabling technologies, namely microwave, ultrasound, and mechanochemistry, described in the literature for obtaining improved performance catalysts (and photocatalysts) for CO2 hydrogenation, are reviewed. In particular, the main advantages (and drawbacks) found in using the proposed methodologies will be discussed and compared by focusing on catalyst design and optimization of clean and efficient (green) synthetic processes. The role of microwaves as a possible activation tool used to improve the reaction yield will also be considered.
The Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance of Magnesium Alloys with Different Alloying Elements for Bone Repair
Authors: Lin Guangyi , Chen Minfang , Zhao Yun , Sasikumar Yesudass , Tie Di
Published: June 2018

In order to make a rational design of magnesium alloys for bone repair, four kinds of Mg alloy ingots were prepared by vacuum induction furnace, namely Mg-3Zn-0.2Ca (wt.%) (ZX30), Mg-3Zn-0.8Zr (wt.%) (ZK30), Mg-3Zn-0.8Zr-0.3Sr (wt.%) (ZKJ300) and Mg-3Zn-0.8Zr-0.3Ca-0.3Ag (wt.%) (ZKXQ3000) alloys. The four ingots were extruded into bar materials through a hot-extrusion process under different temperatures with different extrusion ratios, the mechanical performances and the corrosion behaviors in the simulated body fluid (SBF) of the four alloys were investigated, and the mechanism of fracture and corrosion was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed the ultimate compressive strength (UCS) of all the alloys were found to be around 360 MPa, while ultimate tensile strengths (UTS) of ZKJ300 (334.61 ± 2.92 MPa) and ZKXQ3000 (337.56 ± 2.19 MPa) alloys were much higher than those of ZX30 (298.17 ± 0.93 MPa) and ZK30 (293.26 ± 2.71 MPa) alloys. The electrochemical noise and immersion tests in the SBF indicated that ZK30 alloy performed better in corrosion resistance.
Heterologous Production of Flavour and Aroma Compounds in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Kutyna Dariusz R. , Borneman Anthony R.
Published: June 2018

Over the last two decades, rapid progress in the field of synthetic biology has opened several avenues for the heterologous de novo production of complex biological compounds, such as biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and food additives in microbial hosts. This minireview addresses the usage of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a microbial cell factory for the production of flavour and aroma compounds, thereby providing a path towards a sustainable and efficient means of producing what are normally rare, and often expensive plant-derived chemicals.
Defining the Optimal Dietary Approach for Safe, Effective and Sustainable Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese Adults
Authors: Koliaki Chrysi , Spinos Theodoros , Spinou Μarianna , Brinia Μaria-Eugenia , Mitsopoulou Dimitra , Katsilambros Nicholas
Published: June 2018

Various dietary approaches with different caloric content and macronutrient composition have been recommended to treat obesity in adults. Although their safety and efficacy profile has been assessed in numerous randomized clinical trials, reviews and meta-analyses, the characteristics of the optimal dietary weight loss strategy remain controversial. This mini-review will provide general principles and practical recommendations for the dietary management of obesity and will further explore the components of the optimal dietary intervention. To this end, various dietary plans are critically discussed, including low-fat diets, low-carbohydrate diets, high-protein diets, very low-calorie diets with meal replacements, Mediterranean diet, and diets with intermittent energy restriction. As a general principle, the optimal diet to treat obesity should be safe, efficacious, healthy and nutritionally adequate, culturally acceptable and economically affordable, and should ensure long-term compliance and maintenance of weight loss. Setting realistic goals for weight loss and pursuing a balanced dietary plan tailored to individual needs, preferences, and medical conditions, are the key principles to facilitate weight loss in obese patients and most importantly reduce their overall cardiometabolic risk and other obesity-related comorbidities.
The Efficient Measurement of Job Satisfaction: Facet-Items versus Facet Scales
Authors: Lepold Angelika , Tanzer Norbert , Bregenzer Anita , Jiménez Paulino
Published: June 2018

The measurement of job satisfaction as a central dimension for workplace health and well-being is crucial to set suitable health- and performance-enhancing management decisions. Measuring different facets of job satisfaction leads to a more precise understanding about job satisfaction in research as well as to more specific interventions in companies. This study examines the measurement of job satisfaction with facet scales (multiple-items for one facet) and facet-items (one item for one facet). Facet-items are a cost-effective and fast way to measure job satisfaction in facets, whereas facet scales are more detailed and provide further information. Results from 788 bank employees showed that facet-items of job satisfaction were significantly correlated with the corresponding facet scales and had high factor loadings within the appropriate factor. Furthermore, the same correlational pattern between facet scales and external criteria was found for facet-items and external criteria (identification with the company, work engagement, stress, resources). The findings support the usage of facet-items in companies and in research where cost- and time-effectiveness is imperative and the usage of facet scales where an even deeper understanding of job satisfaction is needed. In practice, the usage of efficient measurements is evident, especially in the upcoming field of eHealth tools.
Use of Sorption of Copper Cations by Clinoptilolite for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Pandová Iveta , Panda Anton , Valíček Jan , Harničárová Marta , Kušnerová Milena , Palková Zuzana
Published: June 2018

This paper from the field of environmental chemistry offers an innovative use of sorbents in the treatment of waste industrial water. Various industrial activities, especially the use of technological fluids in machining, surface treatment of materials, ore extraction, pesticide use in agriculture, etc., create wastewater containing dangerous metals that cause serious health problems. This paper presents the results of studies of the natural zeolite clinoptilolite as a sorbent of copper cations. These results provide the measurement of the sorption kinetics as well as the observed parameters of sorption of copper cations from the aquatic environment to the clinoptilolite from a promising Slovak site. The effectiveness of the natural sorbent is also compared with that of certain known synthetic sorbents.
Improving the Quality of Citizen Contributed Geodata through Their Historical Contributions: The Case of the Road Network in OpenStreetMap
Authors: Nasiri Afsaneh , Ali Abbaspour Rahim , Chehreghan Alireza , Jokar Arsanjani Jamal
Published: June 2018

OpenStreetMap (OSM) has proven to serve as a promising free global encyclopedia of maps with an increasing popularity across different user communities and research bodies. One of the unique characteristics of OSM has been the availability of the full history of users’ contributions, which can leverage our quality control mechanisms through exploiting the history of contributions. Since this aspect of contributions (i.e., historical contributions) has been neglected in the literature, this study aims at presenting a novel approach for improving the positional accuracy and completeness of the OSM road network. To do so, we present a five-stage approach based on a Voronoi diagram that leads to improving the positional accuracy and completeness of the OSM road network. In the first stage, the OSM data history file is retrieved and in the second stage, the corresponding data elements for each object in the historical versions are identified. In the third stage, data cleaning on the historical datasets is carried out in order to identify outliers and remove them accordingly. In the fourth stage, through applying the Voronoi diagram method, one representative version for each set of historical versions is extracted. In the final stage, through examining the spatial relations for each object in the history file, the topology of the target object is enhanced. As per validation, a comparison between the latest version of the OSM data and the result of our approach against a reference dataset is carried out. Given a case study in Tehran, our findings reveal that the completeness and positional precision of OSM features can be improved up to 14%. Our conclusions draw attention to the exploitation of the historical archive of the contributions in OSM as an intrinsic quality indicator.
Using GIS for Determining Variations in Health Access in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Murad Abdulkader
Published: June 2018

The main objective of this paper is to use Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for identifying spatial accessibility to health centers in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia based on the drive-time analysis technique. A geo-database was created that includes the location of health centers, population distribution, and road networks. ArcGIS Network Analyst and overlay analyses were selected as the analysis tools for this paper. The results of the paper indicate that health centers that are located in the northern districts of Jeddah City have fewer registered patients. There are several areas of Jeddah City that have low accessibility to health centers because they fall outside the 30 min drive-time service area. These are located mainly in western, central, and northern city districts. Local health planners in Jeddah City can use the created application to allocate additional health centers in these less-served districts.
GW2 Functions as an E3 Ubiquitin Ligase for Rice Expansin-Like 1
Authors: Choi Beom Seok , Kim Yeon Jeong , Markkandan Kesavan , Koo Yeon Jong , Song Jong Tae , Seo Hak Soo
Published: June 2018

Seed size is one of the most important traits determining the yield of cereal crops. Many studies have been performed to uncover the mechanism of seed development. However, much remains to be understood, especially at the molecular level, although several genes involved in seed size have been identified. Here, we show that rice Grain Width 2 (GW2), a RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligase, can control seed development by catalyzing the ubiquitination of expansin-like 1 (EXPLA1), a cell wall-loosening protein that increases cell growth. Microscopic examination revealed that a GW2 mutant had a chalky endosperm due to the presence of loosely packed, spherical starch granules, although the grain shape was normal. Yeast two-hybrid and in vitro pull-down assays showed a strong interaction between GW2 and EXPLA1. In vitro ubiquitination analysis demonstrated that EXPLA1 was ubiquitinated by GW2 at lysine 279 (K279). GW2 and EXPLA1 colocalized to the nucleus when expressed simultaneously. These results suggest that GW2 negatively regulates seed size by targeting EXPLA1 for degradation through its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity.
The Effect of Zn Content on the Mechanical Properties of Mg-4Nd-xZn Alloys (x = 0, 3, 5 and 8 wt.%)
Authors: Gavras Serge , Buzolin Ricardo H. , Subroto Tungky , Stark Andreas , Tolnai Domonkos
Published: June 2018

The mechanical properties of as-cast Mg-4Nd-xZn (x = 0, 3, 5 or 8 wt.%) alloys were investigated both in situ and ex situ in as-cast and solution-treated conditions. The additions of 3 or 5 wt.% Zn in the base Mg-4Nd alloy did not improve yield strength in comparison to the binary Mg-4Nd alloy. Mechanical properties were shown to improve only with the relatively high concentration of 8 wt.% Zn to Mg-4Nd. The change in intermetallic morphology from a continuous intermetallic to a lamella-like intermetallic was the primary reason for the decreased mechanical properties in Mg-4Nd-3Zn and Mg-4Nd-5Zn compared with Mg-4Nd and Mg-4Nd-8Zn. The dissolution of intermetallic at grain boundaries following heat treatment further indicated the importance of grain boundary reinforcement as shown in both in situ and ex situ compression testing. Azimuthal angle-time plots indicated little grain rotation most noticeably in Mg-4Nd, which also indicated the influence of a strong intermetallic network along the grain boundaries.
Phi-Delta-Diagrams: Software Implementation of a Visual Tool for Assessing Classifier and Feature Performance
Authors: Armano Giuliano , Giuliani Alessandro , Neumann Ursula , Rothe Nikolas , Heider Dominik
Published: June 2018

In this article, a two-tiered 2D tool is described, called ⟨φ,δ⟩ diagrams, and this tool has been devised to support the assessment of classifiers in terms of accuracy and bias. In their standard versions, these diagrams provide information, as the underlying data were in fact balanced. Their generalization, i.e., ability to account for the imbalance, will be also briefly described. In either case, the isometrics of accuracy and bias are immediately evident therein, as—according to a specific design choice—they are in fact straight lines parallel to the x-axis and y-axis, respectively. ⟨φ,δ⟩ diagrams can also be used to assess the importance of features, as highly discriminant ones are immediately evident therein. In this paper, a comprehensive introduction on how to adopt ⟨φ,δ⟩ diagrams as a standard tool for classifier and feature assessment is given. In particular, with the goal of illustrating all relevant details from a pragmatic perspective, their implementation and usage as Python and R packages will be described.
Seaweed Extract (Stella Maris®) Activates Innate Immune Responses in Arabidopsis thaliana and Protects Host against Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Cook Jamie , Zhang Janie , Norrie Jeff , Blal Bachar , Cheng Zhenyu
Published: June 2018

Insects and pathogenic infections (bacteria, viruses and fungi) cause huge losses in agriculturally important crops yearly. Due to the rise in pesticide and antibiotic resistance, our crops and livestock are increasingly at risk. There is a rising demand for environmentally friendly solutions to prevent crop decreases. Components of Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extracts were recently found to boost plant immunity. The stimulatory activities of the A.nodosum marine alga-derived extract (Stella Maris®) were investigated in a broad range of immune assays. Elevated hydrogen peroxide production measured in a chemiluminescence assay suggested that the extract elicited a strong burst of reactive oxygen species. Arabidopsis seedlings treated with Stella Maris® activated the expression of WRKY30, CYP71A12 and PR-1 genes, the induction of which represent early, mid and late plant immune response, respectively. Finally, this study found that Stella Maris® inhibited the growth of multiple bacterial pathogens, including an opportunistic human pathogen that has demonstrated pathogenicity in plants. In summary, the pre-treatment with the seaweed extract protected Arabidopsis against subsequent infection by these pathogens.
Risk factors for alcohol use among youth and main aspects of prevention programs
Authors: Petronytė Gintarė , Zaborskis Apolinaras , Veryga Aurelijus
Published: June 2018

Increasing alcohol consumption becomes more relevant social and health problem among youth. There is no reason to believe that this problem will decrease or be solved in the future. In such situation, it is necessary to build on the experience and conclusions of research performed by other countries. In this article, the risk factors for alcohol consumption among youth and preventive programs, in which family, school, and community play the main role, are analyzed. Such programs may attract the attention of public health specialists and public health politicians and can be not only declared, but also really implemented.
Secondary prevention of ischemic heart disease: pharmacological treatment after myocardial infarction according to follow-up protocol
Authors: Milvidaitė Irena , Lukšienė Dalia , Šlapikienė Birutė , Babarskienė Marija , Liukaitis Valdas , Mačiulaitis Romas , Kaduševičius Edmundas , Pilvinienė Rugilė
Published: June 2018

The aim of this work was to assess the quality of pharmacological treatment in patients within one year after acute myocardial infarction. Material and methods. We performed a prospective survey of 985 consecutive patients with acute myocardial infarction who were treated in the Clinic of Cardiology of Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital in 2004. About half of patients were hospitalized from different regions of Lithuania. According to the follow-up protocol, an information on 514 patients and their used treatment within 13.8±3.2 months after myocardial infarction were collected by letter with questionnaire. Results. Beta-adrenoblockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and antithrombotic drugs were the most drug used (76%, 74%, and 76%, respectively) in patients following myocardial infarction. Most of the patients used a three-drug combination (36.8%), more rarely – two-drug (24.1%) or four-drug complex (19.8%). One drug was used only in 12.1% of cases; 7.2% of patients did not use any cardiac drugs. Betaadrenoblocker with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor was the most common (40.3%) used drug combination in patients on two drug complex. The combination of beta-adrenoblocker, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, and antithrombotics was more frequently used in patients on three drug complex. The combination of two or three cardiac drugs with statin was used in several cases (1.6–10.3%). Conclusions. These findings underscore that the use of beta-adrenoblockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and antithrombotics was high (about 75%) in patients during the first year after myocardial infarction, and the combination of these three drugs was used more commonly. The discordance between existing guidelines for statin use after myocardial infarction and current practice was determined in patients following myocardial infarction.
Peculiarities of medical students’ nutrition
Authors: Škėmienė Lina , Ustinavičienė Rūta , Piešinė Loreta , Radišauskas Ričardas
Published: June 2018

The aim of the study was to investigate the peculiarities of medical students’ nutrition, to compare the dietary habits between first-year and third-year students, to compare male and female students’ nutrition, and to evaluate the tendencies of its change. Material and methods. An anonymous survey using a specially designed questionnaire was carried out on 349 first- and third-year students of the Faculties of Medicine and Pharmacy at Kaunas University of Medicine. Students’ factual nutrition was evaluated by the number of meals per day, the time of eating, and the frequency of consumption of food products. The findings of the questionnaire-based study were stored in a database and analyzed using Excel software. Statistical relationships were determined using EPI Info software by applying the nonparametric c2 criterion. Statistical significance was determined using Student’s criterion. Results. The nutrition of first- and third-year students is irregular and differs in the time and number of meals. Only 20% of students daily ate 400 g of fruit and vegetables as recommended by the World Health Organization. Medical students, especially males, used excessive amounts of animal fat. Every seventh student consumed too salty food. Medical students consumed insufficient amounts of bread, potatoes, cereals, and other products that constitute the basis of the pyramid of healthy nutrition. Twenty-three percent of males and nearly as many females used alcohol once per week. Nearly one-half of students did not exercise at all, and 9.1% of third-year female and 14.5% of third-year male students were overweight. Conclusions. The majority of students did not follow the dietary regimen and consumed the majority of food products during the second half of the day. Students’ nutrition was not balanced – medical students consumed too much fat, especially those of animal origin. Students consumed insufficient amounts of vegetable fats and fish products, fruit and vegetables, and thus their food may lack soluble dietary fibers and vitamins. First-year and third-year female students used vegetable oils more frequently, used more vegetables, and complied with dietary regimen more often than male students. The nutrition of first- and third-year students does not differ statistically significantly. Alternative types of nutrition (vegetarian nutrition and various diets) are not popular among medical students.
The peculiarities of use of addictive substances among students during 2005–2006
Authors: Goštautas Antanas , Povilaitis Romualdas , Pilkauskienė Ina , Jakušovaitė Irayda , Statkevičienė Svetlana
Published: June 2018

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and the frequency of the usage of alcohol (ethanol), tobacco, and other addictive substances and the amounts of such substances consumed among male and female students. The study was performed by applying a questionnaire consisting of 26 standard questions for the evaluation of the respondents’ health and health-related behavior (A. Goštautas, 1999). This article analyzes students’ answers to the questions related to their attitude towards smoking, consumption of alcoholic beverages, the consumed amounts of addictive substances, and the frequency of the usage of such substances. One question was dedicated to the consumption of addictive substances other than tobacco or ethanol. The study included 1475 first- through fourth-year students (713 males and 762 females) from five faculties of the Lithuanian University of Agriculture. This comprised 70% of all students targeted for the inquiry. The obtained results showed that more males, compared to females, used ethanol (89.7% and 79.7%, respectively), smoked (54.7% and 29.1%, respectively), and had tried other addictive substances (35.0% and 16.7%, respectively). More males than females every day or several times per week used ethanol (45.7% and 18.2%, respectively), smoked (43.5% and 29.2%, respectively), and had tried other addictive substances more than once (22.8% and 6.3%, respectively). The prevalence of the usage of ethanol, tobacco, and other addictive substances changed little throughout the four years of studies. The indices of the usage of addictive substances among students were similar to those in the general population.
Quality of life and voice in patients treated for early laryngeal cancer
Authors: Šiupšinskienė Nora , Vaitkus Saulius , Grėbliauskaitė Milda , Engelmanaitė Lina , Šumskienė Jolanta
Published: June 2018

Objectives. To evaluate quality of life and voice in patients previously treated for early laryngeal cancer versus healthy controls and to assess correlations between demographic and cancer characteristics and posttreatment quality of life and voice. Material and methods. A total of 49 patients diagnosed with early (Tis-T2N0) laryngeal carcinoma, treated by radiotherapy or endoscopic surgery at least 6 months before, who were alive and free of recurrence formed study group. Postservice with questionnaires was accomplished. Quality of life was evaluated using Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36), Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) Scale, voice quality – by Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Normative data were obtained from database or concurrently assessed healthy adult subjects. Results. Hoarseness was the most frequent complain. Majority of patients consider their health as fair (69.4%), one third – good or excellent. The means of summary of SF-36 scores for physical and mental health differ significantly from normative age-matched population (P<0.001). Emotional distress on HAD scale was found in 40.8% of patients vs. 17.0% of healthy controls. Majority (87.8%) of patients rated their voice abnormal; vast majority of them had slight to moderate dysfunction. Mean VHI scores were slight elevated for patients and differed significantly from healthy ones. Correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between patients’ physical health and some demographic-clinic factors. Conclusions. Quality of life in patients previously treated for early laryngeal cancer was worse than healthy subjects. Psychiatric morbidity was indicated in around of one-third of the patients. Voice changes were reported in most patients with low handicap level. Physical health perception was better for patients with higher grade of cancer differentiation, not using alcohol, and treated first.
Tympanic membrane changes in experimental acute otitis media and myringotomy
Authors: Alzbutienė Giedrė , Hermansson Ann , Cayè-Thomasen Per , Kinduris Vytenis
Published: June 2018

Objective. The present experimental study explored pathomorphological changes and calcium depositions in the tympanic membrane during experimental acute otitis media caused by nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae in myringotomized and nonmyringotomized ears. Material and methods. A rat model of experimental acute otitis media caused by nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae was employed. Sixteen Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Four days following middle ear inoculation, a bilateral myringotomy was performed in six randomly selected animals. Another group of 10 animals was inoculated only. On days 4, 7, 14, and 28 after inoculation, two animals from each group were sacrificed. The temporal bones were removed and the tympanic membranes were dissected, followed by paraffin embedding. Adjacent sections were stained with PAS-alcian blue for basic histopathological observations and by von Kossa method for determination of calcium phosphate depositions. Results. Particularly intense invasion of polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes was seen on day 4 after inoculation. The highest infiltration of macrophages was observed on day 7. The peak number of lymphocytes was seen on day 14. No difference occurred in the number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in myringotomized and nonmyringotomized tympanic membranes. The infiltration with lymphocytes and activated macrophages in all parts of the myringotomized tympanic membranes was statistically significantly higher than in the nonmyringotomized animals. The total amount of interstitial calcium phosphate depositions during days 7, 14, and 28 of study was statistically higher in the sections of pars tensa from myringotomized membranes compared to the nonmyringotomized membranes. Conclusion. Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae-induced acute otitis media and myringotomy provoke more extensive inflammatory reaction with microcalcification in the tympanic membranes.
Expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) in vocal fold polyps
Authors: Lesauskaitė Vaiva , Uloza Virgilijus , Liutkevičius Vykintas , Pangonytė Dalia
Published: June 2018

Objective. Vocal fold polyps are the most common benign laryngeal lesions. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) play an important role in the physiological and pathological remodeling of tissues. The most important subgroup of MMP family consists of gelatinases A and B (MMP-2 and MMP-9). The objective of this study was investigation of the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in vocal fold polyps and normal tissue of vocal folds. Material and methods. The immunohistochemical expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was investigated in specimens taken by endolaryngeal microsurgery from vocal fold polyps (n=30) and normal tissue of vocal fold (n=13, control group). Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, both in epithelium and stroma cells, was graded on a semiquantitative scale, ranging from 0 (no expression) to 6 points (high expression). Results. A statistically significant increase was observed in the expression of MMP-2 in stroma cells (P=0.0176) of vocal fold polyps compared to control vocal fold group, whereas no significant difference in the expression of MMP-2 was found in epithelium cells (P=0.1487). Comparison of expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in epithelium cells revealed a statistically significant increase in MMP-9 expression (P<0.01) in both groups. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the expression of MMP-9 between groups of vocal fold polyps and control vocal folds. Conclusion. Expression of MMP-2 in stroma was significantly higher in polyps than in normal tissue of vocal folds. Our data draw attention to the role of MMP-2 in the development of vocal fold polyps and necessity of further investigations to define its function in morphogenesis of laryngeal benign, premalignant, and malignant lesions.
Effects of Rare Earth Ce on the Brazing Performance of High Energy Mechanical Milling Cu-Based Alloy Powder
Authors: Wu Qiaoping , Luo Zhuo , Wang Yu , Zhao Heng , Deng Zhaohui
Published: June 2018

CuSn and TiH2 powders were milled by high energy mechanical milling to prepare Cu-based alloy powder for brazing diamond, and a small amount of rare earth Ce was added to improve the brazing performance. The effects of Ce on the brazing performance were studied by investigating transverse rupture strength, microstructure of brazing layer, climbing height along the diamond, and wear characteristics of the diamonds. The results indicated that the addition of Ce could effectively improve the transverse rupture strength, the transverse rupture strength reached the maximum value 475 MPa when the Ce content was 0.75 wt %. Rare earth Ce could promote the refinement of Cu6Sn5 and CuTi2 grains in the brazing alloy, which effectively reduced the formation and propagation of cracks. The wettability of the Cu-based alloy was also improved by adding rare earth Ce, and the capillary force pulled the molten alloy up the diamonds and formed a hill-like structure around diamonds. The diamonds brazed with Cu-based alloy containing 0.75 wt % Ce mainly led to integrity, micro-fracture, fracture and rubdown during the grinding process; pull-out of diamonds did not happen easily owing to the presence of strong adhesion between the diamonds and Cu-based alloy.