bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Estimating Soil Properties with Mid‐Infrared Spectroscopy: Implications of Different Chemometric Approaches and Software Packages Related to Calibration Sample Size
Authors: Ludwig Bernard , Murugan Raja , Parama V. R. Ramakrishna , Vohland Michael
Published: September 2019

Core Ideas

Selection of spectral regions was included in MIR predictions of soil properties.

The R software outperformed a commercial chemometric software.

SVMR and model averaging performed better than PLSR and artificial neural networks.

With decreasing calibration sample size, the usefulness of SVMR over PLSR decreased.

MIRS studies may focus more on representativeness, sample sizes, and variabilities.

Different algorithms exist in various software programs for the estimation of soil properties using mid‐infrared (MIR) spectroscopy, with recommendations varying between different studies regarding which algorithm should be used. Objectives were to compare the performance of the commercial OPUS Quant 2 software, which uses partial least squares regression (PLSR) and a selection of spectral ranges, with the R software and to study the accuracy of different algorithms as a function of the information provided in the calibration. Contents of soil organic carbon (SOC), nitrogen, and texture for surface soils of an arable field were determined, and MIR were spectra recorded. Partial least squares regression used with either software was useful (ratio of performance to interquartile distance in the validation sample [RPIQV] >1.89) for an estimation of SOC, clay, and N contents but not for sand and silt. The wavenumber region selection concept used in OPUS was also implemented in R, and it proved useful for SOC (all algorithms) and total nitrogen (artificial neural networks, support vector machine regression [SVMR]) in the validation. Support vector machine regression generally slightly outperformed the other approaches and resulted in a successful estimation of sand content. The usefulness of SVMR over PLSR generally decreased with decreasing sample size used for the calibration (thus decreasing the information provided), and PLSR partly outperformed SVMR in the validation. Overall, this study indicates that there is no general superiority of a chemometric algorithm over PLSR independent of the information provided in the calibration sample.
Analysis of Cracking Potential and Modification of Soil‐Water Characteristic Curve by Adding Wheat Residues
Authors: Xing Xuguang , Ma Xiaoyi
Published: September 2019

Core Ideas

Wheat residues (WRs) prevent surface crack and raise water retention.

Wheat straw is better than wheat husk in limiting crack and enhancing soil water.

Soil capillary theory is combined with van Genuchten (VG) model for modification.

The modified VG model is valid for infiltration simulation for soil–WR composites.

Wheat is a common crop, and its residues, such as wheat straw (WS) and wheat husk (WH), are typically recycled into farmland to improve water retention capacity. Water availability (in an unsaturated range) and soil water characteristic curves (SWCCs) require evaluations, but research has revealed little regarding the crack potential of dehydrated soil with added WS or WH composites. The current study investigated variations in crack intensity factor (CIF) caused by 1, 1.5, and 2% (w/w) WS and WH addition and modified the traditional SWCC model for applicability to soil mixed with WS or WH. The results revealed that the inclusion of WS and WH inhibits surface cracking, with maximum CIF reductions from 11.22 to 3.80%. Meanwhile, saturated moisture is improved by adding either WS or WH, and supplemented soil retains more water on average than pure soil under drought conditions. Moreover, a modified physical‐based SWCC model applicable to determining SWCC for soil mixed with WS or WH composites is established by combining the traditional model with the soil capillary theory. The fitted results showed this modified SWCC model led to a better agreement than the traditional SWCC model between measurement and simulation. The hydraulic parameters in this modified model can be used as inputs in the soil‐water movement simulation for soil–wheat residue composites.
United States Midwest Soil and Weather Conditions Influence Anaerobic Potentially Mineralizable Nitrogen
Authors: Clark Jason D. , Veum Kristen S. , Fernández Fabián G. , Camberato James J. , Carter Paul R. , Ferguson Richard B. , Franzen David W. , Kaiser Daniel E. , Kitchen Newell R. , Laboski Carrie A. M. , Nafziger Emerson D. , Rosen Carl J. , Sawyer John E. , Shanahan John F.
Published: September 2019

Nitrogen provided to crops through mineralization is an important factor in N management guidelines. Understanding of the interactive effects of soil and weather conditions on N mineralization needs to be improved. Relationships between anaerobic potentially mineralizable N (PMNan) and soil and weather conditions were evaluated under the contrasting climates of eight US Midwestern states. Soil was sampled (0–30 cm) for PMNan analysis before pre‐plant N application (PP0N) and at the V5 development stage from the pre‐plant 0 (V50N) and 180 kg N ha−1 (V5180N) rates and incubated for 7, 14, and 28 d. Even distribution of precipitation and warmer temperatures before soil sampling and greater soil organic matter (SOM) increased PMNan. Soil properties, including total C, SOM, and total N, had the strongest relationships with PMNan (R2 ≤ 0.40), followed by temperature (R2 ≤ 0.20) and precipitation (R2 ≤ 0.18) variables. The strength of the relationships between soil properties and PMNan from PP0N, V50N, and V5180N varied by ≤10%. Including soil and weather in the model greatly increased PMNan predictability (R2 ≤ 0.69), demonstrating the interactive effect of soil and weather on N mineralization at different times during the growing season regardless of N fertilization. Delayed soil sampling (V50N) and sampling after fertilization (V5180N) reduced PMNan predictability. However, longer PMNan incubations improved PMNan predictability from both V5 soil samplings closer to the PMNan predictability from PP0N, indicating the potential of PMNan from longer incubations to provide improved estimates of N mineralization when N fertilizer is applied.

Core Ideas

Relationships between mineralization estimates taken with the PMNan test and soil and weather conditions need to be improved.

Soil sample timing and N fertilization minimally affected PMNan predictability by soil and weather parameters.

Soil properties predict PMNan better than weather conditions.

Soil and weather conditions combined explain up to 69% of the variability of PMNan.

Longer PMNan incubations improve the relationship between soil and weather parameters and PMNan after N fertilization.
Measuring Nature of Science Views of Middle School Students
Authors: YALAKİ Yalçın , DOĞAN Nuri , İREZ Serhat , DOĞAN Nihal , ÇAKMAKÇI Gültekin , ERDEM KARA Başak
Published: September 2019

Developing
scientific literacy for all students is the most often stated purpose of
contemporary science education. Nature of science (NOS) is seen as an important
component of scientific literacy. There are various perceptions of NOS in the
science education community and NOS itself is an ever-changing construct. This
makes it challenging to develop instruments for measuring understanding of NOS
at different levels. Many instruments have been developed and are being
developed to assess NOS learning, which indicates the importance attributed to
this subject. In this study, we developed a multiple-choice test to measure NOS
understanding of middle school students. The instrument was applied to 1397
middle school students. The 24 item multiple-choice test had KR-20 reliability
coefficient of 0.74. A 12 item multiple-choice test created as a subset of the
24 items of the original test. This test was easier and had higher
discrimination, which can provide useful measurement data about students’
understanding of NOS for diagnostic or formative purposes.
Tax revenue and agricultural performance: evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Adebayo Oladipo Olufemi , Iyoha Francis , Fakile Adeniran , John Asaleye Abiola , Felix Eluyela Damilola
Published: September 2019

The responsibility of the government of any economy cannot be overemphasized. Likewise, the resources generated and infrastructural development helps to boost the economic growth of any nation. There has been overdependency of Nigerian economy on the oil sector, the major source of revenue. However, this sector has experienced several challenges ranging from devaluation in naira and fall in prices of crude oil in the international market. This serves as a revelation for the Nigerian government to seek an additional source of income. To this end, the main aim of this paper is to examine the impact of total tax revenue on agricultural performance in Nigeria. The study uses Engel and Granger approach to cointegration to establish the long- and short-run behavior, it was found that a positive and significant relationship exists between revenue obtained in the agricultural sector, capital in agricultural sector proxy by loan and agricultural output, while employment and total tax generated are not significant in the short run. In the long run, employment, capital and total revenue are statistically significant with agricultural output, while tax is insignificant. The implication of the result showed that tax has not yielded desirable result in promoting the agricultural sector in Nigeria. To promote pro-poor growth, long-run employment and improve overall welfare, there is a need to incorporate benefit from tax into agricultural performance. The study recommends among others the need for a systemic approach, given a significant percentage of the total tax generated to boost the development of the agricultural sector.
The Determinant Factors of E-Commerce Purchase Decision in Jakarta and Tangerang
Authors: Gunawan Arby Virto , Linawati Linawati , Pranandito Dimas , Kartono Rano
Published: September 2019

This research aimed to identify the factors that influenced the purchase decision in e-commerce. These used factors were brand image, price, and trust which were adopted from the previous research. The research was designed using a quantitative method with accidental sampling. From 200 questionnaires, there were 117 returned questionnaires from respondents who had made online purchases around Jakarta and Tangerang. The data was analyzed using SPSS. The result shows that brand image has positive influences on purchase decision. On the other hand, price and trust do not influence it. Price is the secondary commitment to make a purchase decision. Thus, a lower price does not guarantee the convenience of online shopping. Meanwhile, trust in making online decisions are built from brand image, shop, and strong products in the market place. Those rejected variables are affected by research fields and target samples.
Long-Run Underperformance on Seasoned Equity Offerings: An Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Rafik Abdur , Azmi Salsabila Annisa
Published: September 2019

The research aimed to analyze the underperformance phenomenon following Seasoned Equity Offering (SEO)in Indonesian context. Samples were all firms listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange with the right issue in the observed periods, were chosen by purposive sampling with several criteria. In total, there were 109 issuing firms from 2009-2014 that were analyzed using performance benchmarking approaches. The approaches consisted of market-based, size-based, growth-based, and industry-based benchmarks. The market-based was constructed using a market return. Then, the size and the growth benchmarks were constructed on the basis of closest market capitalization and closest price-to-book value respectively. Then, the industry benchmark was based on a closest combined of market capitalization and Price to Book Value (PBV) of matched firms within the first-second digit of Standard Industry Classification (SIC). The test was conducted using standard t and Wilcoxon tests by examining the benchmark-based abnormal returns over various spans ranging from 3 to 36 months following the right offerings. Like several findings in developed countries, the results also confirm the underperformance phenomenon following right offerings in Indonesia. The negative abnormal returns are found for all benchmark performances, but they are only significant for the market benchmark and partially significant for the size and the growth benchmarks. Behavioral explanations need to be modeled to reveal the intuitions behind the results.
Measuring Customer-Oriented Organizational Citizenship Behavior on the Employees of Railway Transportation Service Provider
Authors: Puswiartika Dhevy , Hinduan Zahrotur Rusyda , Sulastiana Marina , Harding Diana
Published: September 2019

This research aimed to describe Customer-Oriented Organizational Citizenship Behavior (CO-OCB) on the employees of the railway transportation service provider in Jakarta, Indonesia. A survey research was conducted by distributing the questionnaires to the employees and conducting a Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The sampling was taken by using a convenience sampling technique. The participants were 161 employees from different job levels. Consisting of managers, supervisors, and staff. Data analysis, the researchers used descriptive statistics analysis and inferential analysis with the Kruskal Wallis test by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software for Windows 21.0 and theme analysis. The results show that generally, the respondents have high COOCB. Then, the result of the inferential analysis shows that there are significant differences among CO-OCB. The dominant dimension shown by the employees is organizational compliance, followed by other dimensions such as sportsmanship, helping behavior, self-development, civic virtue, individual initiative, and organizational loyalty. The results also suggest that CO-OCB on the employees is influenced by individual characteristic factors like working attitude, and contextual factors.
The Intervening Effect of Current Knowledge Enhancement on Attitude and Intention to Choose Accounting Career
Authors: Hatane Saarce Elsye , Setiono Felicia Jesslyn
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this research was to examine the influence of attitude in accounting students to the intention to choose an accounting career. It was through the intention to increase current knowledge as an intervening variable. This research used a survey online method to test the research model, which was responded by a total of 503 accounting students across Java. Data analysis and hypothesis testing used partial least square as part of the structural equation model technique. According to their ages, the respondents were famous as the millennial generation in this era. The results of this research are in accordance with the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). It is proven that attitudes have a positive and significant influence on the intentions of accounting students in terms of increasing current knowledge and choosing accounting careers. This research also supports the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT). There is evidence that educational background and learning experience can increase the intention of accounting students to pursue careers in accounting. The existence of different generations leads to different perceptions of students regarding accounting careers. Therefore, further research is needed to identify these differences. The results also suggest that accounting educators need to update their curriculum by adapting the current development and demands of graduates. Last, the rapid development of technology has had a significant influence on the accounting profession.
“Jamaican Sound Keroncong”: A Communication Study on the Spread of Keroncong in the Young Generation in Bandung
Authors: Supiarza Hery , Sobarna Cece
Published: September 2019

This research discussed Jamaican Sound Keroncong (JSK) as a communication media in the global era. The problem of research was that keroncong music tended to be unknown by most young people in Bandung, and it was lost almost a century among them. This research aimed to examine the communication between the structure, agents (SirIyai), and sub-agents (Crispy Crue/the fans), and the appreciation of the keroncong community in Bandung for their performances. Spredlay ethnographic methods were applied. SirIyai was trusted informants and participatory observations, and in-depth interviews were carried out within one year. The research finds that; (1) SirIyai creates a communication media product under the name of JSK as the binding structure between SirIyai as the agent and CCI as the sub-agent; (2) the development of the internet creates dynamics and generates communication space; (3) communication of musical instruments is the basic idea of JSK product creation as communication media; and (4) there is a fundamental change of the old keroncong communication system to that of the youth keroncong in the global era. SirIyai is considered as the role model of the recent keroncong communication and becomes the parameter of creativity of musical mixture of global music era in Bandung.
Politeness Strategies Performed by EFL Learners’ with English Native Speakers in Medical Students
Authors: Rejeki Sri , Azizah Alfi Nur
Published: September 2019

The purpose of the research was to find out what politeness strategies used by EFL learners when they are having a conversation with English native speakers and the factors for selecting these particular strategies. The research applied a descriptive qualitative research. The participants were 28 non-English major (medical students) students in the first semester. The instrument of the research was data from videos presenting students’ conversation with english native speakers. They were analyzed by using Brown and Levinson categories of politeness. The result shows that the learners use three among four politeness strategies proposed by Brown and Levinson namely positive, negative, and off-record strategies. The positive politeness strategies become the most widely used ones.
The Relation of Child’s Empathy and Parents’ Prejudice: The Mediating Role of Parenting Style
Authors: Pontania Almira Rizki , Salim Rose Mini Agoes
Published: September 2019

This research presented the relationship between a child’s empathy and parents’ prejudice, which was mediated by parenting style. The purpose of this research was to determine whether parenting style could be a mediator between parents’ prejudice and child’s empathy and also what type of parenting style would be appropriate to increase empathy in children. The research respondents consisted of 233 parents who had children aged 6-8 years old and were measured using the Basic Empathy Scale-Parent Report (BES-PR), the Blatant Prejudice Scale, and the Parental Authority Questionnaire-Revised (PAQ-R). The data obtained were processed using Pearson correlation and multiple regression (Hayes process). The results show that parenting style can be a mediator between child’s empathy and parents’ prejudice. The parenting style that can increase empathy in children is authoritative parenting. It means that when parents have a low prejudice, they tend to apply authoritative parenting, and this has an effect on increasing empathy in children.
An Ethnolinguistic Study in the Names of Salt Farming Tools in Rembang District
Authors: Utama Faris Febri , Rais Wakit Abdullah , - Sumarlam
Published: September 2019

The aim this research was to describe the names of the tools used in salt farming in Rembang district, which was viewed from an ethnolinguistic perspective. This research was a qualitative research using the Spradley ethnographic method. Data collection used participatory observation and interview techniques. The collected data were analyzed using the ethnosains analysis model. The results show that salt farmers in Rembang regency know at least 13 names of tools in salt farming, namely: ebor, sirat, kincir, desel, garuk, kusut, slender, ekrak, tolok, mbatan, angkong, dium, and ukuran banyu. The thirteen tools can be classified according to their functions, such as (1) to move seawater; (2) to flatten the pond bottom; (3) to compact the pond bottom; (4) to move the salt into a sack or conveyance; (5) to transport the salt in storage area; (6) for coating the bottom of the pond; (7) to determine the density of seawater in the pond.
Measuring Peer Feedback on Writing Class: A Study on Third-Semester Pre-Service English Teachers
Authors: Sumekto Didik Rinan , Setyawati Heny
Published: September 2019

This research aimed to measure the contributions of students’ peer feedback set in the collaborative writing class. Of 144 population, 55 undergraduate English education students were involved as the participants in a quasi-experimental research design which was conducted through a non-randomized five experimental and five control groups. There were 25 experimental participants attended in the regular classes with the collaborative writing class syntax, namely; genres selection, problem-based learning, genres, and peer feedback practices, while other 30 control participants naturally attended in the same activity. Data were collected through the collaborative writing’s pre- and post-test, and peer feedback instruments within four weeks of the lectures. Data analysis used the Mann-Whitney U, and Wilcoxon signed rank tests. The findings show that the collaborative writing’s peer feedback positively contributes to students’ writing skills and learning awareness resulted in the post-tests. Peer feedback may correct students’ writing mistakes and contribute a significant difference between the experimental and control groups (Z=-2,471; p≤0,05). Peer feedback socially tightens students’ collaborative writing and promotes a mutual relationship among group members, and reduces lecturer’s feedback.
Language Code Choice of Male Abdi Dalem of Karaton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
Authors: Retnaningtyas Hanova Rani Eka , Nababan Mangatur Rudolf , Purnanto Dwi
Published: September 2019

This research aimed to show the language code choices of male abdi dalem of Karaton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat because each community had its own language code choice in their daily lives, including every individual. This research was a descriptive qualitative study conducted to determine the language code choice of abdi dalem Karaton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat. Data were taken using questionnaires. The form of questions used was closed questions to find out the language codes choice. In addition, the open questions were used to find out the reason for selecting particular language codes. The data were in the form of an informant’s answer about the choice of a language code and the reason for the selection. This research conducted in Karaton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat based from UU Republik Indonesia Nomor 13 Tahun 2012 concerning the DIY Specialities. It finds that the use of Javanese Kromo dominates the language code choice used by male abdi dalem. The dominance of the use of Javanese Kromo language is considered to be the most polite language code rather than other languages presented by the researchers in the questionnaires. The next order after Javanese Kromo is Indonesian, Javanese Ngoko, Bagongan, and lastly is a foreign language.
Considering All (Non) Living Things: A Biocentric Orientation in Blair Richmond’s The Lithia Trilogy
Authors: Farida Ida , Permadi Yudi , Adelia Trisha , Liviani Nolly
Published: September 2019

This article elucidates the perspective of The Lithia Trilogy, written by Blair Richmond, towards environment. This research is executed based on ecocriticism, a literary approach which focuses on the exploration of environmental issues in literary works. The theory is taken from Laurence Buell on the meaning of ecocriticism. From the analysis of the structure of the novels, it is found that the trilogy presents the idea of biocentrism, an assumption that the earth and all of the living things on it have the right to fulfill their needs without any molestation from the other, especially from humans. Biocentrism is the opposing concept of Anthropocentrism, both of which are studied in environmental ethics. Two issues of conflicts are presented in this trilogy: herbivores versus omnivores and environ-mentalists versus capitalists. The result of the research reveals that the novels suggest not to eat animals to save fauna and socialize Gaia hypothesis to save all living and non-living things on the earth. As one work of young adult literature, this trilogy explicitly teaches those suggestions to young readers.
Successful Implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning
Authors: Hermawan Hermawan
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this research was to analyze factors that influence a successful implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) at PT Agung Sedayu Group. Measuring the success of ERP implementation was needed to find out what success factors influence the implementation process. The DeLone and McLean success model was used as a measurement tool with employees who actively used the ERP system as respondents. The research method used was a descriptive quantitative method with questionnaires as data collection techniques with the indicators on DeLone and McLean model. Data taken from the questionnaire were 187 samples from 350 active user population systems at PT Agung Sedayu Group. Questionnaire data were processed using the SPSS application to test the validity and reliability; then linear regression analysis was performed to test the hypothesis. From the results of the research, it is known that all variables of system quality, information quality, service quality, usage, user satisfaction, and net benefits have an influence on the successful implementation of ERP at PT Agung Sedayu Group. The conclusion presents that the successful implementation of ERP is more influenced by user satisfaction supported by the level of use, system quality, information quality, and service quality.
Prenatal diagnosis of Treacher Collins’s syndrome
(mandibulofacial dysostosis)
Authors: N.P. Marchenko , E.A. Shevchenko , T.V. Rozhkova et all
Published: September 2019

Prenatal diagnosis of maxillofacial dysostosis at 19 weeks and 3 days gestation is presented. The following
sonographic features and congenital malformations are revealed during the ultrasound study of fetal anatomy:
ventriculomegaly, palpebral lack of visualization of the nasal bone, hypoplasia of the lower jaw, abnormal ears.
The phenotype is regarded as Franceschetti syndrome (OMIM 154500). Fetal karyotype — 46,XX. The pregnancy is terminated at the family’s request with the diagnosis being verified at postmortem examination.
Pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect: multicenter analysis
of prenatal diagnosis cases
Authors: M.V. Medvedev , M.V. Kubrina , O.L. Galkina et all
Published: September 2019

A retrospective analysis of 12 cases of prenatal diagnosed of pulmonary atresia with ventricular septum defect
(PA-VSD) is presented. In the study of the fetal four chambers view cardiomegaly was detected in 2 (16.7 %)
cases. The axis of the heart changed in 8 (66.7 %) cases. Ventricular septal defect (VSD) and overriding dilated
ascending aorta were identified in all cases. Central pulmonary arteries were identified in 12 (100%) cases.
In 7 (58.3 %) cases the dimensions of the pulmonary arteries were at least 2SD below the mean value for gestational age in the remaining 5 (41.7 %) cases were very narrow. Pulmonary blood supply was prenatally identified
as ductus arteriosus (DA) in 8 (66.7 %) and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MARSAs) in 3 (25 %)
and mixed (DA + MARSAs) in 1 (8.3 %). Fetal hydrops is detected in 2 (16.7 %) cases. The left aortic arch was
in 9 (75 %) cases and right aortic arch — 3 (25 %). The average gestational age at prenatal diagnosis was 19.6
(13–23) weeks of gestation. Early diagnosis is represented by one case in 13 weeks of gestation. Еxtracardiac
defects were registered in 3 (25 %) cases. Outcomes in fetuses with PA-VSD: termination of pregnancy —
10 (83.4 %), fetal death — 1 (8.3 %), only 1 (8.3 %) survivor
Problems on prenatal diagnosis of kidneys duplication
in the embryogenesis view
Authors: V.N. Osadshaya, O.A. Grammatikova, E.D. Lutaya et all
Published: September 2019

In this article we consider the most crucial stages of the embryology of the urinary system, which help to
explain the mechanisms of duplication of the kidneys (complete/incomplete) and other forms of the urinary
system development abnormalities. We report on our experience with the prenatal diagnosis of duplication of
the kidneys in two fetuses. These cases represent dynamics and variability of the pathological process.
The role of thrombophilia in the genesis of reproductive losses
Authors: I.B. Manukhin , N.F. Kuneshko , G.M. Turgunova et all
Published: September 2019

Objective. Defining the role and frequency of acquired and genetic thrombophilia in the genesis of fetal
loss syndrome.
Methods. 49 pregnant women with a syndrome of reproductive losses and 27 pregnant women with normal
reproductive function were examined. The identification of genetic forms of thrombophilia was performed by
the method of molecular genetic analysis in 3 phases.
Results. In 31 pregnant women of the main group (63,3 %) and 9 pregnant women in the control group
(33,3 %) were the presence of acquired, genetically determined or multigeneration.
Conclusion. Our analysis of clinical material showed a high frequency of complications and outcomes of
pregnancy in women with thrombophilia and fetal loss syndrome and a possibility to avoid the above complications and poor pregnancy outcomes.
Comparative assessment of informational content of the equations
of F.P. Hadlock and the computer program of V.N. Demidov
in determination of term of gestation and fetal weight
in the III trimester of gestation
Authors: E.A. Derkach , O.I. Guseva
Published: September 2019

Objectives: to compare the accuracy of equations F.P. Hadlock and computer programs by V.N. Demidov
in determining gestational age and fetal weight in the third trimester of gestation.
Materials: 328 patients in terms 36–42 weeks of gestation are examined. Ultrasonography was performed
in 0–5 days prior to childbirth.
Results: it is established that the average mistake in determination of term of pregnancy when using the
equation of F.P. Hadlock made 12,5 days, the computer program of V.N. Demidov – 4,4 days (distinction
2,8 times). The mistake within 4 days, when using the equation of F.P. Hadlock has met on average in 23,1 %
of observations, the computer program of V.N. Demidov — 65,9 % (difference in 2,9 times). The mistake more
than 10 days, took place respectively in 51,7 and 8,2 % (distinction by 6,3 times). At a comparative assessment
of size of a mistake in determination of fetal mass it is established that when using the equation of F.P. Hadlock it has averaged 281,0 g, at application of the computer program of V.N. Demidov — 182,5 g (distinction
of 54 %). The small mistake in the mass of a fetus which isn't exceeding 200 g at application of the equation of
F.P. Hadlock has met in 48,1 % of cases and the computer program of V.N. Demidov — 64,0 % (distinction
of 33,1 %). The mistake exceeding 500 g has been stated in 18 % (F.P. Hadlock) and 4,3 % (V.N. Demidov)
respectively (distinction 4,2 times).
Conclusions: the computer program of V.N. Demidov has high precision in determination of term of a
gestation and mass of a fetus in the III pregnancy.
Contaminación del Aire y Justicia Ambiental en Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Rodríguez-Guerra Andrea , Cuvi Nicolás
Published: September 2019

Investigamos el estado de la contaminación del aire en la ciudad de Quito, las trayectorias para mejorar su calidad, y la relación entre contaminantes y condición socioeconómica medida a partir del valor del suelo urbano. Nos concentramos en tres contaminantes: material particulado fino, material particulado grueso y partículas sedimentables. Utilizamos fuentes secundarias y bases de datos del Municipio de Quito. Han existido políticas y acciones para mejorar la calidad del aire, enfocadas en varios sectores. Pese a ello, los tres contaminantes estudiados sobrepasan lo recomendado en normas nacionales e internacionales de calidad del aire. Existe, además, una relación inversa entre contaminación y valor del suelo: las poblaciones que viven en lugares con menor valor del suelo reciben mayor contaminación. Las regulaciones para mejorar la calidad del aire, si bien han tenido algunos logros, en la mayoría de casos han sido incumplidas.
Habilitação Rural e Desenvolvimento Regional Sustentável: O Programa Nacional de Habitação Rural em Nova Olinda/CE
Authors: Costa Mila Fonteles Barbosa Ferreira , Costa Celme Torres Ferreira da , Grangeiro Rebeca da Rocha , Alencar Girlaine Souza da Silva
Published: September 2019

A habitação é um dos temas relativos à inclusão social e tem sido recorrente na última década pela projeção do Programa Minha Casa Minha Vida (PMCMV). O acesso à casa própria apresenta ao brasileiro a possibilidade da transformação da sua realidade espacial. O Programa Nacional de Habitação Rural (PNHR), parte do PMCMV, promove o acesso à habitação através da produção de unidades novas ou da reforma daquelas já existentes. O objeto de estudo dessa pesquisa é o PNHR, aplicado em Nova Olinda-CE e tem como objetivo geral identificar as características que classifiquem o PNHR como um agente do desenvolvimento regional rural e o seu viés sustentável para a gestão econômica, ambiental e social dos seus beneficiários. Para investigação, foram conduzidas entrevistas, tendo como respondentes os gestores do Sindicato dos Trabalhadores da Agricultura Familiar (SINTRAF) e da Caixa Econômica Federal (CEF). Após análise das entrevistas, a pesquisa apresentou perfil sustentável do PNHR, através das indicações dos entrevistados sobre o cuidado na transição das famílias, manutenção das atividades desenvolvidas e permanência na zona rural com melhores condições de vida e sem oneração no custo de vida.
Targeting the Endothelial Ca2+ Toolkit to Rescue Endothelial Dysfunction in Obesity Associated-Hypertension
Authors: Moccia Francesco , Negri Sharon , Faris Pawan , Berra-Romani Roberto
Published: September 2019

Background:

Obesity is a major cardiovascular risk factor which dramatically impairs endothelium- dependent vasodilation and leads to hypertension and vascular damage. The impairment of the vasomotor response to extracellular autacoids, e.g., acetylcholine, mainly depends on the reduced Nitric Oxide (NO) bioavailability, which hampers vasorelaxation in large conduit arteries. In addition, obesity may affect Endothelium-Dependent Hyperpolarization (EDH), which drives vasorelaxation in small resistance arteries and arterioles. Of note, endothelial Ca2+ signals drive NO release and trigger EDH.

Methods:

A structured search of bibliographic databases was carried out to retrieve the most influential, recent articles on the impairment of vasorelaxation in animal models of obesity, including obese Zucker rats, and on the remodeling of the endothelial Ca2+ toolkit under conditions that mimic obesity. Furthermore, we searched for articles discussing how dietary manipulation could be exploited to rescue Ca2+-dependent vasodilation.

Results:

We found evidence that the endothelial Ca2+ could be severely affected by obese vessels. This rearrangement could contribute to endothelial damage and is likely to be involved in the disruption of vasorelaxant mechanisms. However, several Ca2+-permeable channels, including Vanilloid Transient Receptor Potential (TRPV) 1, 3 and 4 could be stimulated by several food components to stimulate vasorelaxation in obese individuals.

Conclusion:

The endothelial Ca2+ toolkit could be targeted to reduce vascular damage and rescue endothelium- dependent vasodilation in obese vessels. This hypothesis remains, however, to be probed on truly obese endothelial cells.
Current Options for the Pharmacotherapy of Obesity
Authors: Gouni-Berthold Ioanna , Berthold Heiner K.
Published: September 2019

650 millions of adults are obese worldwide - in the US alone, forty percent of the adults are obese.
Although the obesity pandemic is constantly expanding at very high costs for health care systems, the currently
available options of pharmacotherapy for obesity are rather limited. Despite intensive research efforts, the vast
majority of the anti-obesity drugs developed up to now have a rather limited efficacy and/or safety profile. In the
last fifty years, various drugs reached advanced states of clinical development but were either never marketed or
were initially approved but withdrawn later due to safety issues. However, the understanding of the pathophysiology
of obesity has been steadily improving and new, promising drugs targeting various selective obesityassociated
and energy-homeostasis-related pathways are now available. When lifestyle changes alone fail to combat,
then additional pharmacotherapy with an acceptable efficacy and safety profile could provide a useful therapeutic
option.
Vitamin D as a Potential Agent for Ischemic Axonal Regeneration after Epineurial Devascularization of the Sciatic Nerve
Authors: Erdem Huseyin , Sarikcioglu Levent , Boyan Neslihan , Oguz Ozkan
Published: September 2019

Background:

Although vitamin D has several noncalcemic functions particularly on
nervous system, its neuroregenerative roles on ischemic peripheral nerve injury has not been
reported. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of vitamin D3 after epineurial
devascularization of the sciatic nerve.

Methods:

Forty adult female Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: Group 1
(Control), Group 2 (Sham-operated), Group 3 (Epineurial devascularization + vitamin D3
treatment), Group 4 (Epineurial devascularization + vehicle treatment). Recovery of the sciatic
nerve was analyzed by functional (sciatic functional index, pinch test and biochemical analyses)
and morphological (electron microscopic analysis and wet muscle weight analysis) methods.

Results:

Comparison of the data revealed that vitamin D3 administration had a beneficial effect on
regeneration after epineurial devascularization.

Results:

We suggest that vitamin D3 is an effective agent in the prevention of ischemic
peripheral nerve insults.
KRAS: A Promising Therapeutic Target for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Wu Hai-Zhou , Xiao Jia-Qi , Xiao Song-Shu , Cheng Yan
Published: September 2019

:

Kirsten rat sarcoma 2 viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) is the most commonly mutated
oncogene in human cancer. The developments of many cancers depend on sustained expression and
signaling of KRAS, which makes KRAS a high-priority therapeutic target. Scientists have not
successfully developed drugs that target KRAS, although efforts have been made last three decades. In
this review, we highlight the emerging experimental strategies of impairing KRAS membrane
localization and the direct targeting of KRAS. We also conclude the combinatorial therapies and RNA
interference technology for the treatment of KRAS mutant cancers. Moreover, the virtual screening
approach to discover novel KRAS inhibitors and synthetic lethality interactors of KRAS are discussed in
detail.
Synthesis of Highly Functionalized Quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones from Isocyanides, Aniline and Isocyanate via Cu-Catalyzed Intermolecular C-H Activation Reactions
Authors: Nematpour Manijeh , Dastjerdi Hossein Fasihi , Jahani Mehdi , Tabatabai Sayyed Abbas
Published: September 2019

A simple and appropriate procedure for the synthesis of quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-dione derivatives
from isocyanides, aniline and isocyanate via the Cu-catalyzed intramolecular C-H activation
reaction is reported. The advantages of this method are one-pot conditions, accessible starting materials-
catalyst, high yield of products, and short reaction times. The structures are confirmed spectroscopically
(1H- and 13C-NMR, IR and EI-MS) and by elemental analyses.
Synthesis, Antibacterial Activity and Molecular Docking Studies of New Pyrazole Derivatives
Authors: Cetin Adnan , Kurt Havva
Published: September 2019

Background:

The pyrazole structure is an important heterocyclic structure and plays critical
roles in agriculture, industrial and medicine. Furthermore, compounds containing pyrazole are
known to exhibit various biological properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, antiinflammatory,
antidepressant, antipyretic, antiviral, anti-tubercular and anti-HIV activities. Because
of these properties, pyrazole molecules have become a very popular topic for organic chemists.

Methods:

A series newly substituted pyrazole molecules were synthesized and characterized. Their
antimicrobial activities were investigated by disk diffusion method against some gram positive bacteria
and gram negative bacteria.

Results:

The present results indicated that the some test compounds were active in a broad spectrum
against important human pathogenic microorganisms. The substituted pyrazoles including carbazone
(7a, b) and thiazolidine (8a, b) showed a wide variety of biological activities. The results showed
that synthesized pyrazole, compounds 7b and 8b are highly active and more potent in both biological
and molecular docking simulation studies.

Conclusion:

The synthesized pyrazole molecules showed moderate antibacterial activities against
the tested microorganism compared to antibiotic drug. Some test compounds (7b and 8b) might be
used as new antibacterial agents.
Effects of β-glucan from Aureobasidium pullulans in a Streptozotocininduced Rat Diabetes Model
Authors: Sohn Jae-Hak , Kim Joo Wan , Lim Jong-Min , Jung Go-Woon , Ku Sae Kwang , Choi Jae-Suk
Published: September 2019

Background:

The alleviating effects of diabetic nephropathy and hepatopathy of β-glucan
were evaluated in this study.

Objective:

The anti-diabetic effects of β -glucan from Aureobasidium pullulans were assessed in a
streptozotocin (STZ)-induced rat diabetes model at 62.5 and 125 mg/kg doses. In addition, the possibility
of changes in the effects of β-glucan according to the severity of diabetes was also assessed at
one dosage (62.5 mg/kg): severe, >360 mg/dL; slight, 130-200 mg/dL.

Methods:

Test articles were administered orally to STZ-induced diabetic rats from 21 days after STZ
dosing for 4 weeks. Each of five or six female rats per group was selected using blood glucose levels
at 21 days after STZ dosing. Changes in body weight were recorded during the study, along with
blood glucose, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine
aminotransferase levels. On the day of sacrifice, livers and kidneys were weighed and observed microscopically
for changes in the percentage of degenerative regions and numbers of degenerative tubules
in the kidney.

Results:

β-glucan showed no hypoglycemic effects in the STZ-induced diabetic rat model. However,
it had favorable effects on decreasing diabetic complications related to diabetic nephropathy and
hepatopathy.

Conclusion:

Based on the results of this study, it was concluded that β-glucan showed favorable effects
in decreasing diabetic complications in STZ-induced rat diabetes model.
Melissopalynological, Physicochemical, Antimicrobial and Microbiological Attributes of Commercial Honeys from North West Nigeria
Authors: Mazai Husaina M. , Ibrahim Sani , Muhammad Aliyu , Abubakar Abdulmumin Z.
Published: September 2019

Background:

Honey is used for nutritional, medicinal and industrial purposes and maintenance
of the requisite quality is of great importance.

Objective:

This study distinctively aimed to portray twelve randomly selected profitable honeys accessible
in the North West Nigerian market with regards to floral nectar origin, physicochemical factors,
antimicrobial activity and microbial safety evaluations.

Methods:

Twelve (12) samples of honey sourced from diverse places in the Northwest of Nigeria
were analyzed for their pollen spectra, physicochemical parameters, antimicrobial activity and microbiological
safety.

Results:

Dominant pollen types from the analysis were Borassus (72%), Piptadenia africana (39%),
Lophira (91%) and Combretaceae (91%) for Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna and Katsina States honey samples,
respectively. The physicochemical analysis of the samples revealed that pH was in range from
3.32 to 4.25, moisture content varied from 16.37% to 18.70%, ash content 0.23% to 0.93% and free
acidity 6.83meq/Kg to 32.00meq/kg, electrical conductivity ranged from 0.13mS/cm to 1.40mS/cm,
reducing sugars was 42.85% to 49.30%, sucrose content was 0.74% to 6.75%, Hydroxymethylfurfural
value was 11.0mg/Kg to 80.20mg/Kg, diastase level ranged from 7.23 to 43.5 and Proline content
ranged from 104.67mg/Kg to 666.67mg/Kg. The antimicrobial evaluation revealed significant zone
of inhibition to E. coli, ranging from 19-38 mm at concentrations (12.5-100mg/mL) tested as compared
to all other test organisms.

Conclusion:

The fallouts of microbiological investigation of the samples revealed mould and bacteria,
with counts less than 102CFU/g. The findings showed that the attributes of the tested honey samples
maintained criteria of international standards.
Characterization of Galactomannan Isolated from Algerian Gleditsia triacanthos L. Seeds
Authors: Leboukh Mourad , Aouadi Saoudi , Gouzi Hicham
Published: September 2019

Background:

The galactomannans are water-soluble carbohydrates widely used in the
food, pharmaceutical, biomedical, cosmetic, textile and paper industries. Recently, a need for an alternative
industrial source of galactomannans has arisen; one possible source is Honey locust
(Gleditsia triacanthos), which is abundant in Algeria.

Objective:

The main objective of this study was to determine the physicochemical and rheological
properties of Water-Soluble Galactomannan (WSG) purified from the seeds of Algerian Honey locust
(Gleditsia triacanthos L.).

Methods:

The galactomannan was purified from the seeds of Gleditsia triacanthos and was structurally
characterized by chromatographic (HPAEC, HPSEC-RID-MALLS) and spectroscopic (FT-IR,
1H, 13C NMR) methods.

Results:

The Honey locust seed contains a high level of WSG (yield, 10%), and the molecular
weight of its WSG was approximately 871.9 kDa. A highly viscous solution was obtained and had
an intrinsic viscosity [η] of 7.14-7.25 dL/g and an optical activity [α]D of +38.7°. Chromatographic
and spectroscopic analyses indicated the presence of β-D-mannopyranose and α-D-galactopyranose
in the heteropolysaccharide at a molar ratio of 2.86:1. The linear backbone of its macromolecule has
a central core composed of 4-linked β-mannose units, with branches of galactose, linked to the carbohydrate
core through α(1-6) linkage.

Conclusion:

These results lead to the conclusion that galactomannan presents the desirable physicochemical
characteristics suitable for applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries.