bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS GERAK DASAR ANAK USIA 6-7 TAHUN
Authors: Kurniawan Rama
Published: February 2019

This study aims to know the studentsâ€™ fundamental movement ability and to analyze those movements based on gender. It was conducted in SDN 1 Lemahabang Kulon, Cirebon Regency. The subject involved in this study was 24 students of the lower-primary levels in the school whose ages between 6-7 years old. Data collection method applied was the observation of the studentsâ€™ fundamental movements. The assessment form on fundamental movement (Gallahue :1996) was used as the instrument of the study. The data was analyzed using a descriptive quantitative technique with a percentage. The finding shows that it was only 65.6 % students who properly mastered the fundamental movement of stability. Meanwhile, the fundamental movements of locomotor and manipulative were mastered only by 43 % and 41.7 %. Based on the gender analysis, the male students were better on fundamental movements than the female ones. To facilitate the future success of movement on students, it is suggested to have a directional and specific program on movement development.
Keywords:, Early childhood, Fundamental movement
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kemampuan gerak dasar siswa serta menganalisa gerakan tersebut berdasarkan gender. Penelitian ini dilakukan di SDN 1 Lemahabang Kulon Kabupaten Cirebon. Subyek yang terlibat dalam penelitian adalah siswa sekolah dasar kelas rendah yang berusia 6-7 tahun yang berjumlah 24 anak. Pengumpulan data dalam penelitian ini menggunakan kegiatan observasi terhadap gerakan dasar siswa. Instrumen yang digunakan adalah format penilaian gerak dasar. Analisis data yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kuantitatif dengan menggunakan persentase. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa hanya 65.6% siswa yang menguasai dengan baik gerak dasar non-lokomotor. Sedangkan gerak dasar lokomotor dan manipulatif hanya 43% dan 41.7%. Berdasarkan analisis gender, siswa laki-laki memiliki kemampuan gerak dasar yang lebih baik daripada siswa perempuan. Untuk mendukung kesuksesan gerak siswa di masa mendatang, diperlukan program pengembangan gerak yang terarah dan spesifik.
Kata Kunci:  Anak usia dini, Gerak dasar
PLATAFORMA MULTIMEDIA PARA LA GESTIÓN EFICIENTE DEL AGUA Y EL APROVECHAMIENTO DE RECURSOS HÍDRICOS DESDE UN PUNTO DE VISTA MULTIDISCIPLINAR EN LA INGENIERÍA
Authors: Sáez Bastante Javier , Román Sánchez Andrea , Vanwalleghem Tom , Olmedo Cortés Inés , Aparicio Martínez Pilar , Pinzi Sara
Published: February 2019

En este proyecto de innovación docente se ha realizado una red social sobre la gestión eficiente del agua involucrando a diferentes asignaturas de los grados en ingeniería Mecánica, Eléctrica, Electrónica Industrial, Agroalimentaria y del Medio Rural e Ingeniería Civil. En este entorno virtual se ha creado un laboratorio virtual sobre comportamiento de un canal hidrodinámico. Esta aplicación representa una alternativa barata y eficiente, donde el estudiante simula los fenómenos a estudiar como si los observase en un laboratorio tradicional. Por lo tanto, es una herramienta de autoaprendizaje, donde el alumno puede alterar las variables de entrada, configurar nuevos experimentos, aprender el manejo de instrumentos y personalizarlos. Además, la simulación en el laboratorio virtual ha permitido obtener una visión más intuitiva de aquellos fenómenos que en su realización manual no aportan suficiente claridad gráfica. Finalmente, se ha realizado un debate sobre tema de actualidad de los recursos hídricos que ha tenido una muy buena valoración por parte del alumnado.
Intracranial and Ocular Abnormalities in a Child with Neurodevelopmental Delay
Authors: Rajaprakash Meghna , Heymans Jessica , Sell Erick
Published: February 2019

Background: COL4A1 mutations can mimic TORCH infections and should be considered in the differential of congenital infections, especially when additional neuroanatomical abnormalities exist.
Case presentation: A patient with neurodevelopmental delay and an unremarkable prenatal and birth history presented postnatally with congenital cataracts and neuroanatomical abnormalities including periventricular calcifications, porencephaly, and cerebellar hypoplasia. Although there was initial suspicion for a TORCH infection including cytomegalovirus, further genetic testing revealed a novel COL4A1 mutation, which involves type 4 collagen alpha 1 chain, an important component of vasculature.
Conclusions: This case highlights the unique neuroanatomical and extracranial features of COL4A1 mutation which helps differentiate the condition from other related diseases. This report suggests that COL4A1 should be considered in a child with intracranial and ocular abnormalities, particularly in the absence of a perinatal etiology.
Keywords: COL4A1, Intracranial calcification, Porencephaly, Cataract, Developmental Delay, TORCH.
The New Urbanist Principle of Quality of Life for Urban Regeneration
Authors: CYSEK-PAWLAK Monika Maria
Published: February 2019

Quality of life (QOL) is a crucial but complex concept, determined by the insights of multiple disciplines. This paper applies the holistic approach to planning known as New Urbanism (NU) to the analysis of QOL, and argues that this movement should no longer be thought of simply as dedicated to halting urban sprawl, but also as providing guiding principles for the process of urban regeneration within the city. The study therefore aims to verify the relationship between NU principles and QOL, from the perspective of urban regeneration. A comparative study is made of two strategic zones in Roubaix (France) and Lodz (Poland). These serve as physical models in which spatial elements crucial for NU are analyzed. Ways of improving QOL through the application of NU guidelines for urban regeneration are also elaborated. The conclusions have possible practical applications, especially in the case of the site in Poland, Green Polesie, where urban regulations are still being elaborated and the whole process of urban regeneration is only just underway.
Students’ Assesment of Environmental Conditions in University Buildings – The Research Report
Authors: LASIEWICZ-SYCH Angelika
Published: February 2019

The paper presents the results of research aimed at preliminary analysis of the students’ assessment of environmental conditions in selected university buildings in Poland. The study was conducted using questionnaires designed for this study. The questionnaire-based interviews were conducted in five university buildings in a few academic centres; the respondents were students attending classes in the buildings (N = 184) under study. The data were analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively with the use of behavioural mapping and space syntax analysis. The research results indicated students’ behavioral and emotional engagement with the places of study, their assessment of the functional performance of these facilities and proposals for improvement of the existing environment (in particular the creation of individual learning space and the “student space” in general), as well as the emotionally-charged and personalized image of individual buildings. Theoretical introduction into the subject matter of research is the paper „Space for university students: specific requirements for  environment – theoretical approach”.
21ST CENTURY THEATER – REGRESS OR PROGRESS?
Authors: OBRACAJ Piotr
Published: February 2019

Theater as such is mostly defined through a relationship between play and observation. Such interplay results in a final product with either lasting or fleeting spatial form, and such spatial form ensues from a broadly understood function it is meant to fulfill. Therefore, the aesthetics of stage objects will involve the shape of the building as well as the stage pictures that are created in it and in its factual or significative proximity. To put it in simple terms, present-day global trends in theater construction seem to be headed in two directions. The first one involves standard solutions for the stage layout in a representative facility. They are addressed to the majority of audiences. The second trend is a form of relationship between the areas of play and observation. It is an embodiment of the creative idea of the people of theater, and, oftentimes, it is an outcome of advanced and complex creative ideas combined with many years of experience. It is an ambitious theater, in many circumstances bordering on an experiment. The discussion of aesthetics of theater facilities and stage layouts was conducted on the basis of judgments expressed by Władysław Tatarkiewicz and Umberto Eco. Despite being seemingly different, they are generally similar.
Analysis of Concrete Corrosion of Manhole Located Near Source of Odorous Emission
Authors: GIL Bożena , SŁOMKA-SŁUPIK Barbara , KOWALSKA Katarzyna , JASIŃSKI Karol
Published: February 2019

The problem of corrosion of sanitary sewer concrete concerns the elements located just behind the expansion well. Evolving odorogenic substances and bioaerosols spread in the sewage system, cause in adverse conditions both chemical and biological corrosion of concrete. The paper presents the results of tests of samples taken from the top concrete circle and from a corroded cast iron hatch of 7 years old manhole located below the expansion well. Well elements were subjected to a strong interaction of hydrogen sulphide, which average concentration in the sewage air, during an exemplary 84 hours was 29 ppm. Concrete was gelatinous fine with noticeable outer pellicular layer of 1 mm thick and the inner layer containing aggregates (grain < 1 cm). Sulfur oxidizing, sulfates reducing, Fe2+ oxidizing bacteria, aerobic heterotrophs, anaerobic heterotrophs, nitrifiers and denitrifiers were determined. In the concrete sample, no sulfate-reducing bacteria were detected under the film-like layer and in the cast-iron manhole material, while the hatch also did not contain anaerobic heterotrophs, nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria. The sulphate content in the concrete samples tested was very high, about 20% in the mass of concrete and 50% in the weight of the binder soluble in HCl. Microscopic investigations showed that the outer layer of the concrete was very rich in gypsum, and the pH of the aqueous extract was in the range of 7–8.
Preliminary Analysis of Sewage Management in Sokólski District
Authors: SKOCZKO Iwona , OSZCZAPIŃSKA Katarzyna
Published: February 2019

Rural areas, similar with the amount of produced sewage to urban areas, are rarely parts of agglomerations. Because of dispersed buildings and often poor infrastructure, sewage management regulation in rural areas can be difficult. Caring for the environment include aquatic environment protection. Sewage economy regulations, especially in rural areas, is a key issue in water contaminations counteracting. Often inappropriate sewage disposal and treatment methods choice could cause ecological imbalance and water pollution as the result.

The aim of this paper was to evaluate water and sewage economy development in Sokólski District in Poland. In the study were used Central Statistical Office of Poland data from 2008–2016. There was considered cesspit and household sewage treatment plants amount and water and wastewater systems length. Also, sewage systems built in recent years and planned in the analysed area were considered.

In recent years reducing trend in a number of cesspits was observed. In 2008–2016 there was an increase in a number of household sewage treatment plants by 919 and about 50 kilometres of the sewage system, while there were 400 cesspits less.
No‐Till Diversified Cropping Systems for Efficient Allocation of Precipitation in the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Patrignani Andres , Godsey Chad B. , Ochsner Tyson E.
Published: February 2019

Core Ideas

Precipitation allocation increased from 45 to 85% when using diversified crop rotations.

Shifting timing of fallow periods increased growing season precipitation allocation.

Diversified crop rotations exhibited lower total water losses during fallow periods than continuous wheat rotations.

Conventional till continuous winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a common cropping system in the portion of the Southern Great Plains (Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas) with >600 mm annual precipitation. This cropping system contributes to soil erosion and uses resources such as precipitation, land, and time inefficiently. Therefore, new cropping strategies are needed. The objective of this research was to determine how no‐till diversified cropping systems affect precipitation allocation and precipitation storage efficiency relative to conventional till continuous wheat. Five crop rotations of varied diversity were studied including the following crops: winter wheat, corn (Zea mays L.), sunflower (Helianthus annus L.), grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.], and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]). The experimental design was a randomized complete block in two location and 2 yr. Soil water content (SWC) to a 2‐m depth was measured weekly with a neutron probe. Regardless of the cropping system, nearly 80% of precipitation during fallow periods was lost. Eighty‐five percent of the annual precipitation was received during the crop growing seasons in the diversified cropping systems compared with 48% in continuous wheat. Fallow periods were inefficient regardless of cropping intensification and shifting fallow periods from summer to winter months resulted in more efficient use of precipitation in the diversified cropping systems.
Soil and Root Attributes in Pastures Managed under Different Stocking Rates and Nitrogen Fertilization Levels
Authors: da Silva Hiran Marcelo Siqueira , Dubeux José Carlos Batista , Silveira Maria Lúcia , dos Santos Mércia Virginia Ferreira , de Freitas Erinaldo Viana , de Almeida Brivaldo Gomes
Published: February 2019

Core Ideas

Grassland is a widespread agroecosystem in the globe; however, not enough attention has been given to link grazing management to soil health.

Grazing management practices greatly impact soil quality.

Moderate stocking rate are more adequate to keep grassland stability.

Pasture management affects soil physical–chemical properties and root depth distribution. Adjusting grazing pressure and N fertilization are key management tools affecting these responses. This study evaluated the effect of N fertilization and stocking rate (SR) on soil physical and chemical attributes and root depth distribution in grazed elephantgrass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum. cv. 381) pastures (2009 and 2010). Treatments consisted of three SR (2.0, 3.9, and 5.8 AU ha−1; 1 AU = animal unit = 450 kg body weight) and three N doses (0, 150, and 300 kg N ha−1 yr−1) on elephantgrass pastures. Response variables included soil bulk density (BD), particle density (PD), total porosity (TP), aggregate stability (AS), water infiltration rate (WIR), light fraction of soil organic matter (LF‐SOM), soil fertility, root length density (RLD), and root biomass. Increased SR resulted in greater BD. Soil bulk density ranged from 1.42 to 1.58 g cm−3 for SR ranging from 2.0 to 5.8 AU ha−1, respectively. The C concentration of the LF‐SOM decreased with increasing SR, ranging from 383 to 174 mg C kg−1 soil. Soil fertility, RLD, and the stock of C and N in the root system varied among soil layers. At the end of 2 yr, SR and N fertilization did not affect TP, WIR, and AS nor influenced soil fertility and root system distribution. Overgrazing led to soil compaction and reduced LF‐SOM, indicating a trend of pasture degradation. Moderate SR resulted in greater LF‐SOM, indicating a positive trend for C accumulation in the long term.
Utilization of Multiyear Plant Breeding Data to Better Predict Genotype Performance
Authors: Arief Vivi N. , Desmae Haile , Hardner Craig , DeLacy Ian H. , Gilmour Arthur , Bull Jason K. , Basford Kaye E.
Published: February 2019

Despite the availability of multiyear, multicycle, and multiphase data in plant breeding programs for annual crops, selection is often based on single‐year, single‐cycle, and single‐phase data. As genotypes in the same fields are usually grown under the same management practice, data from these fields can and should be analyzed together. In Monsanto's North American maize (Zea mays L.) breeding program, this approach enables a spatial model to be fitted in each field, providing an estimate of spatial trend and a better estimate of residual variance in each field. Multiyear, multicycle analysis showed that the estimates of genotype × year variance (VGY) and genotype × year × location variance (VGYL) were still the largest components of the estimated phenotypic variance. Analysis of any single‐year subset of the data inflated the estimate of genotypic variance (VG) by the size of the estimate of VGY, resulting in potential bias in the estimates of genotype performance. These results demonstrate the advantage of a combined analysis of data across years and cycles to make selection decisions for genotype advancement.
Comparison of Soil Physical Quality Indicators Using Direct and Indirect Data Inputs Derived from a Combination of In‐Situ and Ex‐Situ Methods
Authors: Bacher M. G. , Schmidt O. , Bondi G. , Creamer R. , Fenton O.
Published: February 2019

Core Ideas

Soil quality indicators such as S and PAWC are considered as static indicators with low sensitivity.

The soil quality indicator AWr is considered a dynamic indicator with high sensitivity.

Indirect pedotransfer function based SWRCs are appropriate for static baseline indicators.

Soil monitoring programs should use AWr as a sensitive and reliable soil quality indicator.

The quality of a soil is its ability to deliver functions providing ecosystem services, human health and well‐being. Soil physical quality (SPQ) values use different parts of the soil water retention curve (SWRC) to calculate SPQ. For example, the plant available water capacity (PAWC) method is the difference in water content between permanent wilting point and field capacity. The S‐index uses the slope of the SWRC at its inflection point and the relative air‐water energy (AWr) is the integral of “dry” divided by the “wet” area of the SWRC. Increasing demand for soil monitoring policies calls for reliable and sensitive soil quality indicators (SQIs). The objectives of the study were to assess the sensitivity and applicability of SPQ indicators using direct and indirect data inputs. The indirect approach provided sufficient data complexity for the PAWC and S‐index values, but the more complex AWr required the direct approach. PAWC and S‐index values were identified as static SPQ indicators. The values obtained from these approaches should be used to form baseline static datasets and therefore have an indicative role only. The AWr value was identified as a dynamic SPQ indicator and provided required sensitivity to pick up temporal changes in SPQ. This indicator could be used at multiple scales and could even guide grassland management in terms of SPQ. Higher SWRC data resolution will require more complex hydraulic models to fit and will ultimately improve the accuracy of soil hydraulic data and improve the sensitivity of AWr as a SPQ indicator.
The Effect of Dynamic Capillarity in Modeling Saturation Overshoot during Infiltration
Authors: Zhuang Luwen , van Duijn C.J. , Hassanizadeh S. Majid
Published: February 2019

Core Ideas

We provide detailed analysis of various forms of the dynamic capillarity coefficient.

We focus on the region of saturation overshoot at larger saturation.

The results are evaluated with the aid of experimental observations.

Gravity‐driven fingering has been observed during downward infiltration of water into dry sand. Moreover, the water saturation profile within each finger is non‐monotonic, with a saturation overshoot at the finger tip. As reported in the literature, these effects can be simulated by an extended form of the Richards equation, where a dynamic capillarity term is included. The coefficient of proportionality is called the dynamic capillarity coefficient. The dynamic capillarity coefficient may depend on saturation. However, there is no consensus on the form of this dependence. We provide a detailed traveling wave analysis of four distinctly different functional forms of the dynamic capillarity coefficient. In some forms, the coefficient increases with increasing saturation, and in some forms, it decreases. For each form, we have found an explicit expression for the maximum value of saturation in the overshoot region. In current formulations of dynamic capillarity, if the value of the capillarity coefficient is large, the value of saturation in the overshoot region may exceed unity, which is obviously nonphysical. So, we have been able to ensure boundedness of saturation regardless of the value of the dynamic capillarity coefficient by extending the capillary pressure–saturation relationship. Finally, we provide a qualitative comparison of the results of traveling wave analysis with experimental observations.
Research of multi-point adaptive control strategy based on electromagnetic active vibration absorber
Authors: Gao Weipeng , He Guo , Liu Shuyong
Published: February 2019

In order to improve the signal natural frequency of dynamic vibration absorber and eliminate the influence of nonlinear output force to the adaptive vibration absorption system. A new type of electromagnetic active vibration absorber is designed in this article. The internal magnetic circuit structure is changed through the electromagnet placed on the upper and lower, produce the electromagnetic force in two directions. Reaction force of upper mass is used to eliminate the target vibration. The effective frequency range of the vibration absorption increases, output force is basically linear. Aimed at multiple-point adaptive control strategy, a distributed multi-channel adaptive control algorithm is proposed, in which coupling between channels can be compensated on each control loop. Influence of secondary path on active control is analyzed, put forward the improved least mean square algorithm to identify the secondary. Active vibration control experiment platform is structured to verify the output force of absorber, and engineering application of the distributed multi-channel adaptive control algorithm. The results show that the distributed multi-channel adaptive control algorithm system has about 15 dB noise reduction, effect is obvious; new type of electromagnetic active vibration absorber is not limited to the natural frequency, output force can adaptive keep pace with the excitation frequency.
Research on static load sharing characteristics of power split two-stage five-branching star gearing drive system
Authors: Dong Hao , Liu Zhi-yu , Zhao Xiao-long , Hu Ya-hui
Published: February 2019

Power split two-stage five-branching star gearing drive system has been widely used in the aviation engine reducer and the helicopter’s main reducer. For the problem of load sharing characteristics of this system, a static load-sharing calculation model is established. According to the power flow closed loop characteristics of the whole system, the torque equilibrium condition and deformation compatibility condition of the system are established. The load sharing coefficient of the star gears and the system is calculated by using the principle of the integrated equivalent mesh error and the static equilibrium condition of the floating element. Further, the influence of manufacturing error, installation error and floating on load sharing coefficient is analyzed. When the load sharing characteristic is independently influenced by the error, the load sharing coefficient of each star gear changes periodically with time. Basic component floating can significantly improve the load sharing performance. The correctness of the theoretical algorithm is verified by experiments. A new algorithm is proposed for engineering application.
Efficiency of near-fault ground motion pulses to evaluate seismic performance of the SMRF Systems
Authors: Mobinipour Seyed Ahmad , Pourzeynali Saeid
Published: February 2019

Earthquake accelerograms recorded in the near-fault regions have special characteristics including the long-period pulse in velocity records as well as high frequency content in acceleration records. In the present study, by using a wavelet analysis, the long period pulses exist in the velocity records of 28 near-fault ground motions, selected from the PEER NGA database, were first separated from the original records. Subsequently, an incremental non-linear dynamic analysis (IDA) was conducted to evaluate the non-elastic response of an example frame subjected to these original records and their extracted pulses to examine the efficiency of the extracted pulse of the records instead of the original accelerograms in dynamic analysis. The results of this study revealed that the efficiency of the extracted pulses to estimate the structure capacity depends on the structural performance levels. From the numerical analysis performed in the present study, it is found that if a given structure is designed for immediate occupancy (IO) performance level (low drift), the application of the extracted pulses overestimates the structure capacity, which is in the unsafe side. Nevertheless, if the structure is designed for collapse prevention (CP) performance level and experiences high level of non-elastic displacements, the extracted pulses provide a conservative estimation of the collapse capacity, which is in the safe side.
Technological Aspects of Cold Storage of Protein Dairy Products
Authors: Буянова Ирина , Buyanova Irina , Лупинская Светлана , Lupinskaya Svetlana , Лобачева Елена , Lobacheva Elena
Published: February 2019

The dairy market is currently evolving very fast, and the cooperation between countries is developing. As a result, the most popular dairy products are those with better storage stability. In this regard, one of the main tasks of the producers is a year-round supply of high-quality dairy products. Refrigeration is the most effective, environmentally safe, and affordable way of preserving food. Low temperature of minus 20°C increases the shelf life of cottage cheese, curd products, and cream cheeses, preserves their quality, and reduces the microbiological risks. The present research features the specifics of cold storage of protein dairy products at chilled, subfrozen, and frozen modes. The experiment involved a multiple freezing unit. The authors studied the organoleptic and physico-chemical indicators of multi-component dairy products based on processed and cottage cheeses that were fortified with plant material (cranberries, nettle, ramson, sorrel, wild rose, etc.) during prolonged storage. The taste and composition of dishes based on the dairy products mentioned above were assessed by panelists. The quality indicators helped to establish the best terms and conditions for fridge storage of the protein dairy products in question.
The Influence of Biodegradable Food Films on Freshness Indices of Semi-Finished Meat Products
Authors: Ногина Анна , Nogina Anna , Тихонов Сергей , Tikhonov Sergey , Тихонова Наталья , Tikhonova Nataliya
Published: February 2019

Barrier storage technologies are a promising means of increasing the shelf life of meat products, in particular, food wrap. The authors developed an edible food film with antioxidant and antibacterial properties and tested its efficiency in storage of semi-finished meat products. The formula includes nutrients available for industrial production: structure-forming polysaccharide nature-agar-agar, thickener, stabilizer, antioxidant-arabinogalactan, plasticizer-food glycerin, and universal solvent-distilled water. The food film was produced by extrusion dosing of bulk components and distilled water. Then suspended mixture of agar-agar and arabinogalactan was prepared, followed by preparation of film-forming mixture. The film was blown through a narrow slit head of the extruder; after that it was cooled, calibrated, and dried. The films appeared to have a thickness that varied from 28.5 to 54.0 microns, depending on the concentration of the basic prescription components. The thickest film (54 µm) was observed in the sample with the maximum agar content (2%); an increase in the concentration of arabinogalactan in the film solution contributes to the film thickening to a lesser extent (47.1 µm). An increase in the glycerol content of the film formulation to 2% allowed the authors to obtain a film with a minimum thickness (28.5 microns). An increase in agar concentration raises the tensile strength to 36.2 MPa and elongation at break to 29.2%. However, with an increase in glycerol content, these indicators deteriorate to 25.3 MPa (24.6%). High structural and mechanical properties of the film and a high degree of decomposition were observed in the film sample with 2% agar-agar content. As an antimicrobial component, a liquid extract of chamomile flowers was introduced into the film. On the basis of the conducted organoleptic, physico-chemical, and microbiological studies, packaging of semi-finished meat products in a biodegradable film helps to increase their shelf life.
Application of cadmium-doped ZnO for the solar photocatalytic degradation of phenol
Authors: Shahmoradi Behzad , Farahani Farzaneh , Kohzadi Shadi , Maleki Afshin , Pordel Mohammadamin , Zandsalimi Yahya , Gong Yuxuan , Yang Jixiang , McKay Gordon , Lee Seung-Mok , Yang Jae-Kyu
Published: February 2019

In this study, photocatalysis of phenol was studied using Cd-ZnO nanorods, which were synthesized by a hydrothermal method. The Cd-ZnO photocatalyst was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and UV-Vis spectroscopy. XRD patterns exhibit diffraction peaks indexed to the hexagonal wurtzite structures with the P63mc space group. SEM images showed that the average size of the Cd-ZnO nanorods was about 90 nm. Moreover, the nanorods were not agglomerated and were well-dispersed in the aqueous medium. FT-IR analysis confirmed that a surface modifier (n-butylamine) did not add any functional groups onto the Cd-ZnO nanorods. The dopant used in this study showed reduction of the bandgap energy between valence and conduction of the photocatalyst. In addition, effect of various operational parameters including type of photocatalyst, pH, initial concentration of phenol, amount of photocatalyst, and irradiation time on the photocatalytic degradation of phenol has been investigated. The highest phenol removal was achieved using 1% Cd-ZnO for 20 mg/l phenol at pH 7, 3 g/l photocatalyst, 120 min contact time, and 0.01 mole H2O2.
Development of a Gold Nanoparticle-labeled Sandwich Format Lateral Flow Immunoassay Kit for the Detection of Tropical House Dust Mite Suidasia pontifica
Authors: Ngu Mark Angelo V. , Bergantin Jose H. , Ramos John Donnie A.
Published: February 2019

Background:

The house dust mite Suidasia pontifica (Sp) is an important source of allergens in tropical regions that trigger IgE-mediated allergic reactions such as allergic asthma, atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis. Detection of Sp-specific proteins are important in the management and prevention of allergic diseases.

Objective:

The study aimed to provide a proof of concept for a gold nanoparticle-labeled sandwich format Lateral Flow Immunoassay (LFIA) kit for the detection of Sp-specific proteins.

Methods:

Protein A chromatography-purified rabbit anti-Sp polyclonal antibodies were labeled with gold nanoparticles (AuNP) synthesized from chloroauric acid using the citrate reduction method, then dispensed on a glass fiber pad. Unlabeled antibodies and anti-rabbit IgG were immobilized onto nitrocellulose membrane as test line and control line respectively. Cellulose fiber pad, glass fiber, and the nitrocellulose membrane pad were then assembled as LFIA kit.

Results:

Protein-A affinity chromatography purification with pre-concentration yielded 1.45 mg/mL of anti-Sp polyclonal antibodies. Synthesized AuNPs with ~20 nm sizes observed under transmission electron microscope were used for antibody conjugation at an optimal pH of 8.5 (borate buffer) and an optimal ratio of 10 µ L 50µg/mL antibody:100 µ L AuNP. Optimal color intensity and fastest migration time were observed with the treatment of 0.05% Tween20 and 10% sucrose in the conjugate pads; 5% BSA and 0.05% Tween20 in the sample pads, and 1% BSA in the test pads. The limit of detection of the LFIA Sp-specific proteins is 0.076 µg/mL. The sensitivity of the Sp LFIA kit is 83% while the specificity is 100%.

Conclusion:

This is the first report of a prototype for a cost-effective, rapid, and equipment-free detection of the house dust mite Suidasia pontifica.
Recent Advances in the Chemistry of Doubly Activated Cyclopropanes: Synthesis and Reactivity
Authors: Gopinath Purushothaman , Chandrasekaran Srinivasan
Published: February 2019

Diactivated cyclopropanes containing two geminal electron withdrawing
groups, commonly called as ‘Doubly Activated Cyclopropanes’ are useful synthons for
the synthesis of many interesting natural products and functionalized molecules. These
geminal electron withdrawing groups (EWG’s) facilitate the regioselective ring opening of
cyclopropanes by polarizing the C-C bond adjacent to it. This polarization also allows
them to undergo 1,3 dipolar cycloaddition reactions when substituted with a suitable electron
donor substituent at the adjacent carbon (donor-acceptor cyclopropanes) in the presence
of suitable dipolarophiles. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in the
chemistry of doubly activated cyclopropanes: their synthesis, reactions and applications in
total synthesis.
Synthesis and Molecular Docking of New Thiophene Derivatives as Lactate Dehydrogenase-A Inhibitors
Authors: Amr Abd El-Galil E. , El-Shehry Mohamed F. , Ibrahim Alhussein A. , Hosni Hanaa M. , Al-Omar Mohamed A. , Ghabbour Hazem A.
Published: February 2019

Background & Objective:

A series of novel derivatives possessing the thiophene moiety were synthesized using ethyl 5'-amino-2,3'-bithiophene-4'-carboxylate as the starting material.

Methods:

The new synthesized derivatives were screened as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) inhibitors. LDH plays an important role in glucose metabolism in cancer cells and can affect tumor genesis and metastasis.

Results:

3-Substituted p-tolylthieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-ones 4 were the most potent inhibitors in this study compared to Galloflavin reference drug.

Conclusion:

Molecular docking studies on the Human Lactate Dehydrogenase active site were carried out on the synthesized compounds and the MolDock scores ranged between -127 to -171.
Chemistry, Alpha-glucosidase and Radical Scavenging Properties of Uranyl(VI) Hydrazide Complexes
Authors: Akhter Parveen , Ashiq Uzma , Jamal Rifat A. , Shaikh Zara , Mahroof-Tahir Mohammad , Lateef Mehreen , Badar Rooma
Published: February 2019

Background:

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antitumoral activities among others are essential characteristics in the development of novel therapeutic compounds. Acid hydrazides can form complexation with certain metal ions that positively enhance these biological characteristics.

Objective:

Five new complexes of uranium with hydrazide ligands were synthesized at room temperature.

Methods:

Methods: The characterization was done by spectroscopic methods (ESI-Mass, IR, 1H-NMR, 13CNMR), CHN analysis and conductivity measurements. Metal complexes along with their respective ligands were further screened for their antioxidant (DPPH, superoxide and nitric oxide free radicals) properties and enzyme inhibition (α-glucosidase) activities.

Results:

Elemental and spectral data indicate octahedral geometry around uranyl (UO2 2+) species. Magnetic moments indicate the diamagnetic nature of uranyl(VI) ion in the complex in solid state. IC50 values showed potential antioxidant behavior of uranyl complexes demonstrating interesting structure-activity relationships. In general, hydrazide ligands were not active against superoxide and nitric oxide radicals while varying degree of results were observed against DPPH radical whereas all uranyl-complexes showed promising radical scavenging activities against all of them. Promising inhibitory potential was displayed by UO2 +2 hydrazide complexes against α- glucosidases whereas free hydrazide ligands were inactive.

Conclusion:

Structure function relationship demonstrates that the nature of ligand, position of substituent, electronic and steric effects are significant factors affecting the radical scavenging and enzyme inhibition activities of the compounds.
Endometrial Regeneration in Asherman's Syndrome: Clinical and Translational evidence of Stem Cell Therapies
Authors: Hou Xuejing , Liu Ying , Streuli Isabelle , Dällenbach Patrick , Dubuisson Jean , Ansaldi Yveline , Pluchino Nicola
Published: February 2019

Asherman’s Syndrome or Intrauterine adhesions is an acquired uterine condition where fibrous scarring forms within the uterine cavity, resulting in reduced menstrual flow, pelvic pain and infertility. Until recently, the molecular mechanisms leading to the formation of fibrosis were poorly understood, and the treatment of Asherman’s syndrome has largely focused on hysteroscopic resection of adhesions, hormonal therapy, and physical barriers. Numerous studies have begun exploring the molecular mechanisms behind the fibrotic process underlying Asherman’s Syndrome as well as the role of stem cells in the regeneration of the endometrium as a treatment modality. The present review offers a summary of available stem cell-based regeneration studies, as well as highlighting current gaps in research.
Overdoses of Acetaminophen Disrupt the Thyroid-Liver Axis in Neonatal Rats
Authors: R.G. Ahmed
Published: February 2019

Objective:

The aim of the study was to examine the impact of neonatal acetaminophen (APAP; paracetamol) administrations on the thyroid-liver axis in male Wistar rats.

Methods:

APAP (100 or 350mg/kg) was orally administered to neonates from Postnatal Day (PND) 20 to 40.

Results:

Both APAP doses elicited a substantial increase in serum TSH, albumin, AST, ALT, and ALP values, and a profound decrease in serum FT4 and FT3 values at PND 40 relative to those in the control group. Additionally, the hypothyroid state in both APAP-treated groups may increase the histopathological variations in the neonatal liver, such as destructive degeneration, fibrosis, fatty degeneration, fibroblast proliferation, haemorrhage, oedema, and vacuolar degeneration, at PND 40. Moreover, in the APAP groups, a marked depression was recorded in the t-SH and GSH levels and GPx and CAT activities at PND 40 in the neonatal liver compared to those in the control group. However, the levels of hepatic LPO, H2O2, and NO were increased in both APAP-treated groups at PND 40. All previous alterations were dose- dependent.

Conclusion:

Neonatal APAP caused a hypothyroidism and disturbed hepatic cellular components by increasing prooxidant markers and decreasing antioxidant markers, causing hepatotoxicity. Thus, neonatal administrations of APAP may act as a neonatal thyroid-liver disruptor.
The Neuromodulatory Effects of ω-3 Fatty Acids and Nano-Curcumin on the COX-2/ iNOS Network in Migraines: A Clinical Trial Study from Gene Expression to Clinical Symptoms
Authors: Abdolahi Mina , Jafarieh Arash , Sarraf Payam , Sedighiyan Mohsen , Yousefi Abolghasem , Tafakhori Abbas , Abdollahi Hamed , Salehinia Farahnaz , Djalali Mahmoud
Published: February 2019

Background:

Migraine is a common neuroinflammatory disorder characterized by recurrent
attacks of pain. Human and experimental models of migraine studies have demonstrated the role
played by COX-2/ iNOS in migraine’s neuroinflammatory pathogenesis. COX-2 and iNOS are closely
linked and both contribute to inflammation and neurogenic pain in the central nervous system. Omega-
3 fatty acids and curcumin, an active polyphenol of turmeric, have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective
effects through several mechanisms, including the suppression of COX-2 and iNOS gene expression,
as well as their serum levels. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the nutrigenomic effects
of ω-3 fatty acids, nano-curcumin, and a combination of the two, on neuroinflammation and clinical
symptoms in migraine patients.

Methods:

This study reports the results of a clinical trial over a 2-month period, involving 74 episodic
migraine patients who received ω-3 fatty acids, nano-curcumin, a combination of them, or a placebo.
At the start and end of the study, the expression of COX-2/iNOS (in peripheral mononuclear blood
cells isolated from patients) and COX-2/iNOS serum levels were measured, using real-time PCR and
ELISA respectively. The frequency, severity and duration of pain attacks were also recorded.

Results:

The results of the present trial showed that ω-3 fatty acids and nano-curcumin can reinforce
each other’s effects in the downregulation of COX-2/iNOS mRNA, as well as reduce their serum levels.
In addition, the combination of ω-3 and nano-curcumin significantly reduced the frequency, severity
and duration of headaches (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

These findings indicate that combination therapy of ω-3 fatty acids and nano-curcumin
can be considered as a promising new approach in migraine prevention.
Lições Político-Económicas da Transição Portuguesa para o Euro (1986-1999)
Authors: Sousa Miguel Rocha de
Published: February 2019

Ilustramos a transição económica para o euro num contexto político-económico, construindo um índice de confiança bivariado, baseado em Rocha de Sousa (1998, 1999a,b, 2001). Para além disso procuramos compreender se o euro funcionou como um instrumento de integração político-económica. O artigo tem a seguinte estrutura: secção 1 descreve o processo de construção monetária Europeia, a secção 2 ilustra a necessidade de consolidação orçamental pré-euro, a secção 3 ilustra a noção de credibilidade monetária e a construção de um índice de confiança bivariado, a secção 4 ilustra o papel do BCE e do SEBC, a secção 5 avalia o impacto do euro em Portugal e a secção 6 avalia os dez anos após a criação do euro recorrendo ao relatório da Comissão Europeia (CE, 2008), e finalmente a secção 7 conclui.
Review: "Turkey’s Relations with the Middle East: Political Encounters after the Arab Spring"
Authors: Poghosyan Garik
Published: February 2019

N/A
Leadership Skills, Style of Power and Influence over Regional Policies of Germany in the Post-Crisis Europe (2012-2015)
Authors: Bruno Valerio Alfonso , Finzi Giacomo
Published: February 2019

Since the Eurozone crisis, scholars framed dierent interpretations about the power role of Germany in Europe, pointing at the possible return of the “German question”. Recently, with the “Brexit”, the populist tensions within the EU and the election of Trump as US president, Germany on the contrary, was regarded as the last bastion of the liberal order by Western media. Starting from the premise that with the global economic crisis Germany acquired a supremacy position in Europe “by default”, we proceed by confuting the idea of Germany as a coercive hegemon, without falling into idealistic interpretations. To do so, we define an analytical framework distinguishing leadership and hegemony and insisting on the importance of the context of permanent multi-level crisis in Europe. The argument we advance is that between 2012 and 2015 Germany played a positive power role in Europe, exhibiting appreciable leadership skills, vast regional influence and, first of all, a style of power closer to a benign multilateral leadership than to a coercive unilateral hegemony. The empirical research is based on three case studies from dierent policy areas, the Banking Union (2012-2013), the European migration crisis (2014-2015) and the Russia-Ukraine conflict (2014-2015).
A regulação da diversidade religiosa pelos estados europeus: acomodação do religioso ou hegemonia secular?
Authors: Moniz Jorge Botelho
Published: February 2019

Este artigo tem como objetivo principal analisar os mecanismos (políticos ou legais) de regulação da diversidade cultural, nomeadamente a religiosa, pelos Estados democráticos de direito europeus. A nossa investigação é feita à luz do desenvolvimento e crescimento dos fenómenos migratórios globais e das suas consequências, em especial, no continente europeu. Por conta da sua evolução e dos desafios que amiúde colocam à organização das sociedades contemporâneas, os Estados sentem cada vez mais a necessidade de regular a atividade das igrejas e comunidades religiosas em favor do equilíbrio/pacificação da diversidade religiosa. Esta regulação é, normalmente, feita a partir de princípios e respostas seculares que, não obstante, reconhecem, acomodam e promovem as atividades de determinadas igrejas ou comunidades religiosas.No entanto, como nos exemplos das legislações nacionais ou das práticas políticas - como as políticas de moralidade, existe uma certa hegemonia desses valores e remédios seculares que tem consequências para a religião.
Iniciativa de Cidadania Europeia: Mais e Melhor Democracia na UE?
Authors: Carvalhais Isabel Estrada
Published: February 2019

Este texto centra a sua análise sobre um dos novos instrumentos de participação democrática que o tratado de Lisboa consagra no âmbito do exercício da Cidadania Europeia: a iniciativa de Cidadania. Tomando como pano de fundo a discussão pública lançada em 2009 e recentemente concluída em Janeiro de 2010, o texto relembra algumas questões a que urge responder de modo a que se possa avançar rapidamente para uma implementação acessível e simples, ou seja, democrática e eficaz, deste instrumento, num contexto transeuropeu que necessariamente apresenta desafios acrescidos. O texto não esquece ainda  a necessidade de retomar algumas questões a que chama de carácter fundador e que se prendem com a própria pertinência política da aplicação de um tal instrumento no contexto da cidadania europeia e no contexto da qualidade democrática da própria institucionalidade europeia.
Europeans´ Left-Right Orientations: Increasingly Centrist and/or Irrelavant?
Authors: Freire André
Published: February 2019

Several studies reveal that there is little empirical support for the ´end of ideology´ thesis. However we know that there has been a drive towards the centre (-rigth) of the major centre- left parties, which have been converging with the neoliberal consensus, and that the clarity of policy alternatives offered by political parties do count for the way citizens think about (and make use of) the left-right divide. Moreover, there are several claims by politicians, political commentators and journalists that the left-right divide is no longer useful to understand politics of our times. The major research questions in the present paper are the following. First, are left-right orientations losing their relevance for individual electors in European countries? Second, are the electorates in European countries moving towards the centre? In both cases, the answers are basically negative: there is too much diversity to talk about general trends but in any case the empirical evidence points predominantly in the opposite direction. After the conclusion, the paper ends by suggesting some cues for future reseach about how to explain the differences found across countries.