bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Faktor-Faktor Yang Memengaruhi Perilaku Menabung Di Kalangan Mahasiswa
Authors: Sirine Hani , Utami Dwi Setiyani
Published: April 2017

High growth rate of savings will increase the rate of investment in Indonesia and encourage the economic growth of a nation. But according to the survey conducted by Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK), people is still have a low understanding of the use of financial products including savings. It is also shown on the position of the savings that experienced declining growth from 2009-2013, especially in Central Java Province. Students as the academic community are expected to have a good understanding on the choice of investment and consumption so that students can contribute to the economic growth of Indonesia. Several of previous studies showed that financial literacy, socialization of parents, peers influence, and self-control have a significant positive effect on student savings behavior. The purpose of this study is going to reexamine the results of previous studies with a sample of 221 students of FEB in Satya Wacana Christian University. The results showed that financial literacy, socialization of parents, peers influence, and self-control simultaneously have a significant effect on savings behavior. Partially, financial literacy, socialization of parents, and self-control have a positive significant effect on savings behavior of students, but peers influence have no significant effect.

Abstrak

 

Tingkat pertumbuhan tabungan yang tinggi akan meningkatkan laju investasi di Indonesia dan mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi suatu bangsa. Survei yang dilakukan oleh Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK), menunjukkan orang masih memiliki pemahaman yang rendah mengenai penggunaan produk keuangan termasuk tabungan. Hal ini juga ditunjukkan oleh posisi tabungan yang mengalami pertumbuhan menurun dari 2009-2013, terutama di Provinsi Jawa Tengah. Mahasiswa sebagai civitas akademika diharapkan memiliki pemahaman yang baik pada pilihan investasi dan konsumsi sehingga mahasiswa dapat berkontribusi terhadap pertumbuhan ekonomi Indonesia. Beberapa penelitian sebelumnya menunjukkan bahwa melek finansial, sosialisasi orang tua, pengaruh rekan-rekan, dan kontrol diri memiliki efek positif yang signifikan terhadap perilaku tabungan mahasiswa. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah menguji kembali hasil penelitian sebelumnya dengan menggunakan sampel sebanyak 221 mahasiswa FEB Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa melek finansial, sosialisasi dari orang tua, pengaruh rekan-rekan, dan kontrol diri secara bersamaan memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap perilaku tabungan. Secara parsial, melek finansial, sosialisasi dari orang tua, dan kontrol diri memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan positif terhadap perilaku tabungan mahasiswa, tetapi pengaruh rekan-rekan tidak berpengaruh secara signifikan.
Determinan Kebahagiaan Di Indonesia
Authors: Rahayu Theresia Puji
Published: April 2017

The research objective is to analyse the determinants of happiness in Indonesia. Using cross-section data from Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS) wave 4, 2007, this study takes 17.650 observations which estimated using Oprobit model. The Oprobit model was chosen because of ordinaled response variable and the normal assumption in error distribution. The result shows that happiness in Indonesia positively affected by income, education level, perceived health status and social capital. But social capital that connected with religion and ethnic don’t have significant effect on happiness. All predictors are robust. Demographic characteristics inform that married people, non household head, live in urban area, outside of Jawa-Bali islands and Javanese were happier than others. There is no difference in happiness level between man and woman. Happiness-age relationship indicated U-shaped curve. Marginal effect shows different effect for every happiness level due to a unit change in independent variable.

Abstrak

 

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis faktor-faktor penentu kebahagiaan di Indonesia. Dengan menggunakan data antar ruang/silang tempat dari Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS) wave 4, 2007, studi ini mengambil 17,650 pengamatan yang diestimasi menggunakan model Oprobit. Model Oprobit dipilih karena adanya variabel respon ordinal dan asumsi normal dalam distribusi kesalahan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kebahagiaan di Indonesia secara positif dipengaruhi oleh pendapatan, tingkat pendidikan, status kesehatan yang dirasakan dan modal sosial. Namun demikian, modal sosial yang berkaitan dengan agama dan etnis tidak memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap kebahagiaan. Semua prediktor bersifat robust. Karakteristik demografi menginformasikan bahwa orang yang menikah, bukan kepala rumah tangga, tinggal di daerah perkotaan, berada di luar pulau Jawa-Bali dan dari suku Jawa lebih bahagia daripada yang lain. Riset ini juga menemukan bahwa tidak terdapat perbedaan dalam tingkat kebahagiaan antara pria dan wanita. Kemudian, hubungan antara kebahagiaan dan usia menunjukkan kurva yang berbentuk U. Terakhir, efek marjinal menunjukkan efek yang berbeda untuk setiap tingkat kebahagiaan karena perubahan unit variabel independen.
Pertanggungjawaban Sosial Universitas: Implementasi Model Cycle Relations
Authors: Wijaya Lina Sinatra , Krismiyati Krismiyati
Published: April 2017

The competition among Higher Education is getting tougher. They need to do their best in order to maintain their existence and getting more students coming to their institutions. One way to achieve that goal is through carrying out Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs or University Social Responsibility (USR) for university. This study tries to investigate the implementation of ‘Cycle Relations’ model in CSR to increase the intake of Higher Education. This study involved seven Higher Educations and nineteen High schools in Central Java. In collecting the data, it used a depth-interview method with all the related parties in this study. The result showed that most of the Higher Education institutions have implemented Corporate Social Responsibility program in various ways. Their target audience included the high schools, society, and parents.  From the model implementation, it showed that the CSR program did have an impact towards the intake in their institution. However, one important thing to consider is that the role of the teachers at schools was quite significant in influencing the students to choose which university to go.  This reflects that although the Higher Education institution have planned and carried out CSR programs according to what the target audiences’ need, it does not guarantee that it will have direct impact towards their intake because the influence of teacher is quite significant. It may have a bigger impact in long term as the target audiences know the quality and contribution of the Higher Education institutions.
Strategi Pengembangan Daerah Growth Pole melalui Pemanfaatan Potensi Lokal
Authors: Rusdarti Rusdarti , Fafurida Fafurida
Published: April 2017

This research aims to determine the leading sectors that could be developed in each district in Cilacap Regency as a growth pole area. We use location quotient, shift share, and klassen typology as analysis methods. The research results show that not all of the district at Cilacap regency have a leading sector. Further, districts that have leading sectors are as follows. Wanareja only has a leading sector, i.e. agriculture. Secondly, Kawunganten has two leading sectors, agriculture and finance, rent, and company services. Thirdly, Agriculture becomes the only leading sector of Kampung Laut District. Fourthly, Mining and extraction are the leading sectors of Kesugihan District. Fifthly, Sampang District has buildings and finance sectors as the leading sectors. Sixthly, Kroya District leads in trade, hotel, and restaurant sectors. Seventhly, South Cilacap District leads in mining and extraction sectors. Eighthly, Central Cilacap District has manufacturing, electricity, gas and clean water, building and services as leading sectors. Lastly, North Cilacap District has electricity, gas and clean water, manufacturing, building and services as leading sectors.

Abstrak

 

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah menentukan sektor unggulan yang dapat dikembangkan di tiap kecamatan di Kabupaten Cilacap sebagai salah satu daerah growth pole. Alat analisis yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu location quotient, shift share dan klassen typologi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tidak semua kecamatan di kabupaten Cilacap memiliki sektor unggulan. Beberapa daerah yang memiliki sektor unggulan diantaranya adalah  Kecamatan Wanareja hanya memiliki satu sektor unggulan yaitu pertanian. Kedua adalah Kecamatan Kawunganten memiliki dua sektor unggulan yaitu sektor pertanian dan sektor keuangan, persewaan dan jasa perusahaan. Kecamatan Kampung Laut, dimana sektor pertanian pada kecamatan ini sangatlah unggul. Kecamatan kesugihan juga memiliki satu sektor unggulan yaitu sektor pertambangan dan penggalian. Kecamatan yang kelima yaitu Kecamatan Sampang, unggul dalam sektor bangunan dan sektor keuangan, persewaan dan jasa perusahaan. Keenam adalah Kecamatan Kroya unggul dalam sektor perdagangan, hotel dan restoran. Ketujuh yaitu Kecamatan Cilacap Selatan, sektor pertambangan dan penggalian di wilayah ini termasuk unggul. Cilacap tengah memiliki banyak sektor unggulan, diantaranya adalah sektor Industri pengolahan, sektor listrik, gas dan air bersih, sektor bangunan serta sektor jasa-jasa. Dan Kecamatan Cilacap Utara, sektor yang tergolong unggul dalam kecamatan ini adalah sektor listrik, gas dan air bersih, sektor industri pengolahan, sektor bangunan dan sektor jasa-jasa.
Desain Triangulasi Konkuren dalam Menganalisis Model 3I Marketing 3.0 sebagai Entrepreneurial Marketing Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah Menghadapi Masyarakat Ekonomi ASEAN
Authors: Padmalia Metta , Immanuel Dewi M.
Published: April 2017

Entrepreneurial Marketing is a marketing activity by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that uses an entrepreneurial approach. Currently, government still pays less attention to the implementation of SMEs’ entrepreneurial marketing.  Yet, as the backbone of Indonesian economy, SMEs can play an important role when ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) begins to implement. With respect to these issues, we aim to identify the government’s role in advocating SMEs’ interests, especially in the Marketing 3.0. era. In the Marketing 3.0. era, marketing is translated into brand triangle through 3i Model. We use a mixed method with a concurrent triangulation design. The first part of this study interviewed five SME owners who receive assistance from Diskoperindag of Magelang City regarding the following issues: implementation of 3i Model, the role of Diskoperindag in assisting businesses, and their understanding of MEA. Basically, this part explore the conditions of SMEs concerning the issues being questioned. Meanwhile, the second part is a quantitative analysis that involve 40 customers who bought SMEs who receive assistance from Diskoperindag. Using multiple regression analysis, we find that only brand and brand identity parts of 3i Model have significantly positive effect on decisions to buy SMEs’ products.

Abstrak

 

Entrepreneurial Marketing adalah kegiatan pemasaran oleh usaha dengan skala kecil menengah (UMKM) menggunakan pendekatan kewirausahaan. Perhatian pemerintah masih kurang optimal terhadap penerapan entrepreneurial marketing dari UMKM, padahal sebagai fondasi perekonomian negara, UMKM memegang peranan penting ketika dimulainya era Masyarakat Ekonomi ASEAN (MEA). Melihat fenomena tersebut, peneliti ingin mengidentifikasi bagaimana peran serta yang telah dilakukan oleh pemerintah dalam membina UMKM, terutama dalam era Marketing 3.0. Pada era Marketing 3.0, pemasaran diterjemahkan sebagai segitiga merek melalui Model 3i. Penelitian yang dikembangkan adalah penelitian kombinasi dengan desain triangulasi konkuren. Bagian pertama penelitian ini melibatkan 5 orang pemilik UMKM binaan Diskoperindag kota Magelang yang diwawancarai terkait penerapan Model 3i, peran serta Diskoperindag, dan pemahamannya terhadap MEA. Hasil dari bagian pertama berupa eksplorasi kondisi UMKM terkait aspek-aspek yang ditanyakan. Bagian kedua penelitian melibatkan 40 orang konsumen yang telah membeli produk UMKM binaan. Pengujian data kuantitatif pada bagian kedua dilakukan dengan analisis regresi linear berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pada bagian dari Model 3i hanya identitas merek dan integritas merek saja yang memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian produk UMKM.
O PROTAGONISMO INDÍGENA NAS ORGANIZAÇÕES INDÍGENAS EM BOA VISTA/RR: A ASSOCIAÇÃO KUAI’KRI COMO CAMPO DE AÇÃO
Authors: Souza Ana H. C. , Haetinger Claus , Laroque Luíz F. S. , Ribeiro Dênis A. , Ribeiro Aldenora Z. , Oliveira Elialdo R.
Published: April 2017

Este artigo apresentações do protagonismo indígena por meio da Associação Estadual Indígena Kuai’kri de Roraima (AEIKRR), tomando como suporte a polifonia de vozes expressas em organizações sociopolíticas. Usa como recorte espacial o perímetro urbano de Boa Vista/RR, onde contingentes étnicos Macuxi e Wapichana uniram-se em identidades coletivas na busca de afirmação de sua identidade cultural, direitos e sobrevivência sociocultural. Por meio de uma metodologia qualitativa pela técnica da observação participante e entrevista semiestruturada, foi possível identificar, pelo menos, um duplo papel na abrangência de atuação da organização. As reivindicações junto à esfera pública pelo cumprimento dos direitos conquistados pela Constituição de 1988, para reafirmação de uma cidadania ressignificada caracterizam como agência, enquanto
AUTONOMIA DOS ÓRGÃOS DE PERÍCIA CRIMINAL: UMA ANÁLISE DO ESTADO RORAIMA
Authors: Andrade Gilmara P.
Published: April 2017

Este artigo propõe a discussão sobre a autonomia da Perícia Criminal no Estado de Roraima, frente a uma gradativa desvinculação destes órgãos das estruturas da polícia civil, em outros estados do Brasil. Com o objetivo de evidenciar os benefícios desta autonomia, diante do quadro organizacional destes órgãos dispostos dentro das estruturas da segurança pública, que deixou uma lacuna constitucional normativa, de amplitude nacional, quanto à organização administrativa e subordinação, destes órgãos oficiais de perícia criminal.
Combined GC- and UHPLC-HR-MS Based Metabolomics to Analyze Durable Anti-fungal Resistance Processes in Cereals
Authors: Bucher Rahel , Veyel Daniel , Willmitzer Lothar , Krattinger Simon , Keller Beat , Bigler Laurent
Published: April 2017

Introduction of durable resistance genes in crops is an important strategy to prevent yield loss caused by pathogens. The durable multi-pathogen resistance gene Lr34 originating from wheat is widely used in breeding, and is functionally transferable to barley and rice. The molecular
resistance mechanism of Lr34, encoding for an adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter, is not known yet. To understand the molecular function and the defense response of durable disease resistance in cereals, the metabolic response of Lr34 was investigated in, except
for the Lr34 gene, genetically identical lines of barley, rice and wheat. A broad range of compounds including primary, secondary and lipophilic metabolites were analyzed by a combination of gas (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) mass spectrometry (MS) based methods. Data from metabolomics
correlated well with transcriptomics data for plant defense responses such as the formation of anti-fungal hordatines or the components of the glyoxylate cycle. Induction of the glyoxylate cycle found in transgenic Lr34 rice grown in the greenhouse was confirmed in field-grown natural Lr34 wheat. Constitutively active plant defense responses were observed in the different cereals.
Improving Sensitivity of Solid-state NMR Spectroscopy by Rational Design of Polarizing Agents for Dynamic Nuclear Polarization
Authors: Kubicki Dominik J. , Emsley Lyndon
Published: April 2017

We review our recent efforts to optimize the efficiency of polarizing agents for Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) in solid-state MAS NMR spectroscopy. We elucidate the links between DNP performance, molecular structure and electronic relaxation properties of dinitroxide biradicals.
We show that deuteration and increased bulkiness lead to slower electronic relaxation and in turn to higher DNP enhancements. We also show that the incorporation of solid dielectric particles into the sample is a general method of amplifying DNP enhancements by about a factor of two.
Ion Etching Induced Surface Patterns of Blend Polymer (Poly Ethylene Glycol – Poly Methyl Methacrylate) Irradiated with Gamma Rays
Authors: Ghobashy M. M. , Reheem A. M. Abdel , Mazied N. A.
Published: April 2017

The pattern surface structure of a thin blend polymer film of Poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) – Poly ethylene glycol (PEG) induced by Ar+ ion etching (5 keV) has been investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Blend polymer films have been obtained consisting of a hydrophilic PEG and a hydrophobic PMMA distributed in co-continuous phases. Four different compositions of the two polymers are dissolved in chloroform and irradiated with gamma rays (60Co) at 20 kGy to produce transparent films of blend polymer PMMA-PEG after casting. Self-assembled of PMMA-PEG film is obtained because of the high contrast between the two polymers. Ion-polymer interaction with a hydrophilic polymer (Ar+ +PEG) rather than the high etch resistance of hydrophobic polymer (Ar+ −PMMA) was observed. The results are discussed in terms of significant destruction of bonds in the blend polymer films as a result of which one polymer undergoes rapid dissociation rather than the other one. This means that etching with Ar+ ions of the PMMA domains are stable and PEG can be selective. The ATR-FTIR spectrum shows the absence of hydrogen bonds and XRD/DSC curves show the crystanility of PMMA depending on the PEG contents and gamma radiation effect, irradiated blend polymer PMMA/PEG has shown more resistant at thermal degradation than irradiated PMMA. This indicates that the PEG contents have an effect on the thermal stability of PMMA/PEG as detected by TGA. Finally, the pattern surface of irradiated blend polymer (PMMA-2%PEG) was plated with two coaxial layers subsequently of copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) using sputter technique.
Forming of Thermoplastic Matrix Composites with Gas Pressure – the Influence of Blank Holder and Sheet Temperature on the Forming Pressure and Drawing Ratio
Authors: Gröschel C. , Drummer D.
Published: April 2017

New processes for continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastics (“organo-sheets”) offer new possibilities e. g. for the production of closed hollow bodies. In the Twin-O-Sheet Process the forming is done via gas pressure without separate diaphragms. This brings new demands on the organo-sheets with respect to gas density. In this article the influence of the forming parameters blank holder temperature and sheet temperature on the achievable gas pressure and drawing ratios with twill-weave PA6/GF organo-sheets are investigated. The results show that higher blank holder temperatures lead to higher drawing ratios despite of lower pressures. Compared to the blank holder temperature the influence of the sheet temperature on the drawing ratio is minor.
Time Dependence of Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Injection Molded Recycled PET
Authors: Molnár B. , Ronkay F.
Published: April 2017

During research, injection molded samples were prepared from recycled poly(ethylene-terephthalate) granulate, and their mechanical properties were investigated as a function of time. To understand the changes in mechanical properties, both morphology of injection molded samples and recycled granulates were investigated. A three-phase morphological model was applied for the evaluation of morphological properties while mechanical properties were determined by tensile and impact tests. Relationship was found between morphological and mechanical characteristics as a function of time elapsed since production. Crystalline ratio, tensile strength, and modulus of injection molded specimens increased while impact strength decreased in the four weeks after production.
Modeling Temperature and Time Dependence of the Wetting of Tool Steel Surfaces by Polymer Melts
Authors: Zitzenbacher G. , Längauer M. , Holzer C.
Published: April 2017

Beside the surface properties of the tool material, its temperature is an important parameter influencing the wettability of the tool surface by polymer melts in extrusion technology and injection molding. The temperature and time dependence of the contact angle of a polypropylene and a polymethylmethacrylate melt on polished tool steel was studied in this work at close to process conditions. The experiments were conducted by placing the polymeric sample on the hot tool material substrate in a high temperature chamber and recording the drop shape dependence on time. Based on the experimental results, a novel model was developed which allows a description of the contact angle dependent on temperature and time. The contact angle of the investigated polymer melts exhibits a linear decrease with rising temperature, which means that the wettability of the tool material by the polymer melt is improved with increasing temperature. Furthermore, the model proposed herein enables a complete mathematical description of the contact angle of polymer melts on the tool material dependent on temperature and time. The parameters of this function are the initial contact angle θ0, the contact angle when time approaches infinity θ∞ and a characteristic material time B. The time dependency is incorporated by an exponential function. The characterizing contact angle parameters (θ0, θ∞) follow a linear decrease with rising temperature. The characteristic material time B obeys an exponential law dependent on the reciprocal value of temperature similar to Arrhenius' law.
A novel route for the preparation of betamethasone from 9α-hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3,17-dione (9αOH-AD) by chemical synthesis and fermentation
Authors: Tang Jie , Liu Xirong , Zeng Chunlin , Meng Hao , Tian Mi , Guo Cancheng
Published: April 2017

A novel and efficient synthesis of betamethasone has been developed from the readily available 9α-hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3,17-dione (9αOH-AD). The 16α-methyl was introduced stereoselectively with CH3Br and converted to the 16β-methyl, the 17-side chain was installed with 2-chlorovinyl ethyl ether in the place of the toxic KCN/HOAc, and a mild fermentation was employed for the 1,2-dehydrogenation, replacing the DDQ oxidation. By adjustments and improvements of the steps, this route produced betamethasone in 11 steps with a 22.9% overall yield, showing its potential for industrial application with relatively low toxicity and cost.
Registration of ‘Uzun’ Sesame
Authors: Yol Engin , Furat Şeymus , Uzun Bulent
Published: April 2017

‘Uzun’ (Reg. No. CV‐14, PI 679963) is a sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) cultivar with a high yield and light brown seeds. It was registered with National Variety Registration and Seed Certification Center in Turkey in 2013 and released by Akdeniz University and the West Mediterranean Agricultural Research Institute. It is highly suitable for main‐ and second‐crop farming and exhibits moderate tolerance to phyllody phytoplasma, rhizoctonia root rot, Fusarium wilt, and Verticillium wilt. The cultivar was derived from the breeding line 1.10.7.2/1‐1, which originated from the local population 1.10.7.2 in Antalya, Turkey. This advanced line was developed by single plant selection and purified in the growing seasons 2004 to 2007 at the West Mediterranean Research Institute research stations. Performance tests in replicated trials were conducted in Antalya and Sanliurfa, Turkey, in 2008 and 2009. Uzun showed higher seed yield and desirable yield traits in these experiments. It was tested by the National Variety Registration and Seed Certification Center in Antalya, Sanliurfa, Manisa, and Izmir in 2011 and 2012. It had a height of 172.6 cm, which was taller than controls in all four locations. Uzun had the highest seed yield, with values of 1263 and 2189 kg ha−1 in Manisa and Izmir, respectively. The mean data from all the four locations collected over a period of 2 yr indicated that Uzun had significantly higher seed yield.
Family Dog-Assisted Adapted Physical Activity: A Case Study
Authors: Tepfer Amanda , Ross Samantha , MacDonald Megan , Udell Monique , Ruaux Craig , Baltzer Wendy
Published: April 2017

Purpose: The aim of this case study was to examine the individual effects of an adapted physical activity, animal-assisted intervention (APA-AAI) with the family dog on motor skills, physical activity, and quality of life of a child with cerebral palsy (CP). Method: This study used an A-B-A single-subject design. The assessment phase (phase A) occurred pre- and post-intervention. This consisted of standardized assessments of motor skills, quality of life questionnaires, physical activity (measured using the GT3X+ accelerometer) and the human-animal bond. The intervention (phase B) lasted 8 weeks and consisted of adapted physical activities performed with the family dog once a week for 60 min in a lab setting. In addition, the participant had at-home daily activities to complete with the family dog. Results: Visual analysis was used to analyze the data. Motor skill performance, physical activity, quality of life and human animal interaction gains were observed in each case. Conclusions: These preliminary results provided initial evidence that the family-dog can play a role in healthy lifestyles through APA-AAI in children with CP.
In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Techniques to Study Neuronal Migration in the Developing Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Azzarelli Roberta , Oleari Roberto , Lettieri Antonella , Andre' Valentina , Cariboni Anna
Published: April 2017

Neuronal migration is a fundamental biological process that underlies proper brain development and neuronal circuit formation. In the developing cerebral cortex, distinct neuronal populations, producing excitatory, inhibitory and modulatory neurotransmitters, are generated in different germinative areas and migrate along various routes to reach their final positions within the cortex. Different technical approaches and experimental models have been adopted to study the mechanisms regulating neuronal migration in the cortex. In this review, we will discuss the most common in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo techniques to visualize and study cortical neuronal migration.
Viability of Legionella pneumophila in Water Samples: A Comparison of Propidium Monoazide (PMA) Treatment on Membrane Filters and in Liquid
Authors: Bonetta Sara , Pignata Cristina , Bonetta Silvia , Meucci Lorenza , Giacosa Donatella , Marino Elena , Gilli Giorgio , Carraro Elisabetta
Published: April 2017

Legionella pneumophila is a ubiquitous microorganism widely distributed in aquatic environments and can cause Legionellosis in humans. A promising approach to detect viable cells in water samples involves the use of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in combination with photoactivatable DNA intercalator propidium monoazide (PMA). However, the PMA efficiency could be different depending on the experimental conditions used. The aim of this study was to compare two PMA exposure protocols: (A) directly on the membrane filter or (B) in liquid after filter washing. The overall PMA-induced qPCR means reductions in heat-killed L. pneumophila cells were 2.42 and 1.91 log units for exposure protocols A and B, respectively. A comparison between the results obtained reveals that filter exposure allows a higher PMA-qPCR signal reduction to be reached, mainly at low concentrations (p < 0.05). This confirms the potential use of this method to quantify L. pneumophila in water with low contamination.
Prospective Study on the Impact of Fear of Falling on Functional Decline among Community Dwelling Elderly Women
Authors: Choi Kyungwon , Jeon Gyeong-Suk , Cho Sung-il
Published: April 2017

Fear of falling (FOF) is expected to have effects on functional decline in the elderly. In this study, we examined over 2 years the effect of change in FOF on functional decline in community dwelling elderly. We conducted a secondary analysis using data from elderly women, 70 years of age and older, who participated in the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA). Participants were divided into four categories according to change in FOF between the 2010 and 2012 surveys. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted regarding the effects of changes in FOF on functional decline after controlling for variables as known risk factors for functional decline. Rates of functional decline were highest in the “consistently having FOF” group, whereas they were lowest in the “consistently no FOF” group in both 2010 and 2012. Characteristics independently associated with functional decline were change in FOF, depressive symptoms, low frequency of meeting friends, and fear-induced activity avoidance. Longer exposure to FOF was associated with an increased risk of functional decline. FOF is an important health problem that deserves attention in its own right. Public health approaches for elderly persons should address early detection, prevention, and intervention programs for FOF.
Renalase Protects against Renal Fibrosis by Inhibiting the Activation of the ERK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Wu Yiru , Wang Liyan , Deng Dai , Zhang Qidong , Liu Wenhu
Published: April 2017

Renal interstitial fibrosis is a common pathway for the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to end-stage renal disease. Renalase, acting as a signaling molecule, has been reported to have cardiovascular and renal protective effects. However, its role in renal fibrosis remains unknown. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of renalase in rats with complete unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and examined the inhibitory effects of renalase on transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in human proximal renal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells. We found that in the UUO model, the expression of renalase was markedly downregulated and adenoviral-mediated expression of renalase significantly attenuated renal interstitial fibrosis, as evidenced by the maintenance of E-cadherin expression and suppressed expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin and collagen-I. In vitro, renalase inhibited TGF-β1-mediated upregulation of α-SMA and downregulation of E-cadherin. Increased levels of Phospho-extracellular regulated protein kinases (p-ERK1/2) in TGF-β1-stimulated cells were reversed by renalase cotreatment. When ERK1 was overexpressed, the inhibition of TGF-β1-induced EMT and fibrosis mediated by renalase was attenuated. Our study provides the first evidence that renalase can ameliorate renal interstitial fibrosis by suppression of tubular EMT through inhibition of the ERK pathway. These results suggest that renalase has potential renoprotective effects in renal interstitial fibrosis and may be an effective agent for slowing CKD progression.
Antiplatelet Activity of a Newly Synthesized Novel Ruthenium (II): A Potential Role for Akt/JNK Signaling
Authors: Khamrang Themmila , Hung Kuo-Chen , Hsia Chih-Hsuan , Hsieh Cheng-Ying , Velusamy Marappan , Jayakumar Thanasekaran , Sheu Joen-Rong
Published: April 2017

In oncotherapy, ruthenium complexes are considered as potential alternatives for platinum compounds, and have been proved as promising anticancer drugs with high efficacy and lesser side effects. Platelet activation plays a major role in cancer metastasis and progression. Hence, this study explored the effect of a newly synthesized ruthenium complex, [Ru(η6-cymene)(L)Cl]BF4(TQ5), where L = 4-phenyl-2-pyridin-2-yl-quinazoline), on human platelet activation. TQ5 (3–5 µM) inhibited concentration-dependent collagen-induced platelet aggregation in washed human platelets. However, this compound only inhibited platelet aggregation at a maximum concentration of 500 and 100 µM against thrombin and 9,11-dideoxy-11α, 9α-epoxymethanoprostaglandin (U46619)-induced stimulation, respectively. TQ5 inhibited collagen-induced ATP release and calcium mobilization ([Ca2+]i), without inducing cell cytotoxicity. In addition, neither SQ22536, an adenylate cyclase inhibitor, nor 1H-[1,2,4] oxadiazolo [4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ), a guanylate cyclase inhibitor, significantly reversed the TQ5-mediated inhibition of platelet aggregation. TQ5 inhibited the collagen-induced phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), but did not effectively inhibit extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) in human platelets. Additionally, TQ5 significantly prolonged the closure time in whole blood and increased the occlusion time of thrombotic platelet plug formation in mice. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that a newly synthesized ruthenium complex, TQ5, exhibits potent antiplatelet activity by hindering ATP release and [Ca2+]i, and by decreasing the activation of Akt/JNK signals. Together, these results suggest that TQ5 could be developed as a therapeutic agent that helps prevent or treat thromboembolic disorders, since it is found to be potently more effective than a well-established antithrombotic aspirin.
Role of the Vanins–Myeloperoxidase Axis in Colorectal Carcinogenesis
Authors: Mariani Francesco , Roncucci Luca
Published: April 2017

The presence of chronic inflammation in the colonic mucosa leads to an increased risk of cancer. Among proteins involved in the regulation of mucosal inflammation and that may contribute both to structural damage of the intestinal mucosa and to intestinal carcinogenesis, there are myeloperoxidase (MPO) and vanins. The infiltration of colonic mucosa by neutrophils may promote carcinogenesis through MPO, a key enzyme contained in the lysosomes of neutrophils that regulates local inflammation and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mutagenic species. The human vanin gene family consists of three genes: vanin-1, vanin-2 and vanin-3. All vanin molecules are pantetheinases, that hydrolyze pantetheine into pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), and cysteamine, a sulfhydryl compound. Vanin-1 loss confers an increased resistance to stress and acute intestinal inflammation, while vanin-2 regulates adhesion and transmigration of activated neutrophils. The metabolic product of these enzymes has a prominent role in the inflammation processes by affecting glutathione levels, inducing ulcers through a reduction in mucosal blood flow and oxygenation, decreasing local defense mechanisms, and in carcinogenesis by damaging DNA and regulating pathways involved in cell apoptosis, metabolism and growth, as Nrf2 and HIF-1α.
Thymoquinone Defeats Diabetes-Induced Testicular Damage in Rats Targeting Antioxidant, Inflammatory and Aromatase Expression
Authors: Atta Mustafa , Almadaly Essam , El-Far Ali , Saleh Rasha , Assar Doaa , Al Jaouni Soad , Mousa Shaker
Published: April 2017

Antioxidants have valuable effects on the process of spermatogenesis, particularly with diabetes mellitus (DM). Therefore, the present study investigated the impact and the intracellular mechanisms by which thymoquinone (TQ) works against diabetes-induced testicular deteriorations in rats. Wistar male rats (n = 60) were randomly allocated into four groups; Control, Diabetic (streptozotocin (STZ)-treated rats where diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of STZ, 65 mg/kg), Diabetic + TQ (diabetic rats treated with TQ (50 mg/kg) orally once daily), and TQ (non-diabetic rats treated with TQ) for 12 weeks. Results revealed that TQ significantly improved the sperm parameters with a reduction in nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in testicular tissue. Also, it increased testicular reduced glutathione (GSH) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Interestingly, TQ induced downregulation of testicular inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and significantly upregulated the aromatase protein expression levels in testicles in comparison with the diabetic rats. In conclusion, TQ treatment exerted a protective effect against reproductive dysfunction induced by diabetes not only through its powerful antioxidant and hypoglycemic effects but also through its downregulation of testicular iNOS and NF-κB along with upregulation of aromatase expression levels in diabetic rats.
YKL-40-Induced Inhibition of miR-590-3p Promotes Interleukin-18 Expression and Angiogenesis of Endothelial Progenitor Cells
Authors: Li Te-Mao , Liu Shan-Chi , Huang Ya-Hsin , Huang Chien-Chung , Hsu Chin-Jung , Tsai Chun-Hao , Wang Shih-Wei , Tang Chih-Hsin
Published: April 2017

YKL-40, also known as human cartilage glycoprotein-39 or chitinase-3-like-1, is a pro-inflammatory protein that is highly expressed in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Angiogenesis is a critical step in the pathogenesis of RA, promoting the infiltration of inflammatory cells into joints and providing oxygen and nutrients to RA pannus. In this study, we examined the effects of YKL-40 in the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-18 (IL-18), and the stimulation of angiogenesis and accumulation of osteoblasts. We observed that YKL-40 induces IL-18 production in osteoblasts and thereby stimulates angiogenesis of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). We found that this process occurs through the suppression of miR-590-3p via the focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. YKL-40 inhibition reduced angiogenesis in in vivo models of angiogenesis: the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and Matrigel plug models. We report that YKL-40 stimulates IL-18 expression in osteoblasts and facilitates EPC angiogenesis.
Thermal Properties of Cement-Based Composites for Geothermal Energy Applications
Authors: Bao Xiaohua , Memon Shazim , Yang Haibin , Dong Zhijun , Cui Hongzhi
Published: April 2017

Geothermal energy piles are a quite recent renewable energy technique where geothermal energy in the foundation of a building is used to transport and store geothermal energy. In this paper, a structural–functional integrated cement-based composite, which can be used for energy piles, was developed using expanded graphite and graphite nanoplatelet-based composite phase change materials (CPCMs). Its mechanical properties, thermal-regulatory performance, and heat of hydration were evaluated. Test results showed that the compressive strength of GNP-Paraffin cement-based composites at 28 days was more than 25 MPa. The flexural strength and density of thermal energy storage cement paste composite decreased with increases in the percentage of CPCM in the cement paste. The infrared thermal image analysis results showed superior thermal control capability of cement based materials with CPCMs. Hence, the carbon-based CPCMs are promising thermal energy storage materials and can be used to improve the durability of energy piles.
Transcriptome Analysis of Core Dinoflagellates Reveals a Universal Bias towards “GC” Rich Codons
Authors: Williams Ernest , Place Allen , Bachvaroff Tsvetan
Published: April 2017

Although dinoflagellates are a potential source of pharmaceuticals and natural products, the mechanisms for regulating and producing these compounds are largely unknown because of extensive post-transcriptional control of gene expression. One well-documented mechanism for controlling gene expression during translation is codon bias, whereby specific codons slow or even terminate protein synthesis. Approximately 10,000 annotatable genes from fifteen “core” dinoflagellate transcriptomes along a range of overall guanine and cytosine (GC) content were used for codonW analysis to determine the relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) and the GC content at each codon position. GC bias in the analyzed dataset and at the third codon position varied from 51% and 54% to 66% and 88%, respectively. Codons poor in GC were observed to be universally absent, but bias was most pronounced for codons ending in uracil followed by adenine (UA). GC bias at the third codon position was able to explain low abundance codons as well as the low effective number of codons. Thus, we propose that a bias towards codons rich in GC bases is a universal feature of core dinoflagellates, possibly relating to their unique chromosome structure, and not likely a major mechanism for controlling gene expression.
Base-Promoted Synthesis of β-Substituted-Tryptophans via a Simple and Convenient Three-Component Condensation of Nickel(II) Glycinate
Authors: Zhou Rui , Pan Zhaoping , Zhang Yuehua , Wu Fengbo , Jiang Qinglin , Guo Li
Published: April 2017

A three-component reaction of nickel(II) glycinate was conducted for the convenient synthesis of β-substituted-tryptophans. The reaction worked smoothly under mild conditions and the procedure was simple and easy to handle.
Special Issue “Structure–Activity Relationship of Natural Products”
Authors: Sabatier Jean-Marc
Published: April 2017

This Special Issue of Molecules deals with the structure–activity relationship of natural compounds which possess some pharmacological/chemical properties of potential interest (from basic research to the clinical applications) in a wide range of areas, such as bacteriology, parasitology, cancerology, inflammation, etc.[...]
Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Bone Turnover Markers: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Schwetz Verena , Trummer Christian , Pandis Marlene , Grübler Martin , Verheyen Nicolas , Gaksch Martin , Zittermann Armin , März Winfried , Aberer Felix , Lang Angelika , Treiber Gerlies , Friedl Claudia , Obermayer-Pietsch Barbara , Pieber Thomas , Tomaschitz Andreas , Pilz Stefan
Published: April 2017

Bone turnover markers (BTMs) are used to evaluate bone health together with bone mineral density and fracture assessment. Vitamin D supplementation is widely used to prevent and treat musculoskeletal diseases but existing data on vitamin D effects on markers of bone resorption and formation are inconsistent. We therefore examined the effects of vitamin D supplementation on bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (bALP), osteocalcin (OC), C-terminal telopeptide (CTX), and procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (P1NP). This is a post-hoc analysis of the Styrian Vitamin D Hypertension Trial, a single-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (RCT) performed at the Medical University of Graz, Austria (2011–2014). Two hundred individuals with arterial hypertension and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels <75 nmol/L were randomized to 2800 IU of vitamin D daily or placebo for eight weeks. One hundred ninety-seven participants (60.2 ± 11.1 years; 47% women) were included in this analysis. Vitamin D had no significant effect on bALP (mean treatment effect (MTE) 0.013, 95% CI −0.029 to 0.056 µg/L; p = 0.533), CTX (MTE 0.024, 95% CI −0.163 to 0.210 ng/mL, p = 0.802), OC (MTE 0.020, 95% CI −0.062 to 0.103 ng/mL, p = 0.626), or P1NP (MTE −0.021, 95% CI −0.099 to 0.057 ng/mL, p = 0.597). Analyzing patients with 25(OH)D levels <50 nmol/L separately (n = 74) left results largely unchanged. In hypertensive patients with low 25(OH)D levels, we observed no significant effect of vitamin D supplementation for eight weeks on BTMs.
Factors Associated with Decreased Lean Tissue Index in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wang Yi-Wen , Lin Ting-Yun , Peng Ching-Hsiu , Huang Jui-Lin , Hung Szu-Chun
Published: April 2017

Muscle wasting is common and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, factors associated with decreased muscle mass in CKD patients are seldom reported. We performed a cross-sectional study of 326 patients (age 65.8 ± 13.3 years) with stage 3–5 CKD who were not yet on dialysis. Muscle mass was determined using the Body Composition Monitor (BCM), a multifrequency bioimpedance spectroscopy device, and was expressed as the lean tissue index (LTI, lean tissue mass/height2). An LTI of less than 10% of the normal value (low LTI) indicates muscle wasting. Patients with low LTI (n = 40) tended to be diabetic, had significantly higher fat tissue index, urine protein creatinine ratio, and interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels, but had significantly lower serum albumin and hemoglobin levels compared with those with normal LTI. In multivariate linear regression analysis, age, sex, cardiovascular disease, and interleukin-6 were independently associated with LTI. Additionally, diabetes mellitus remained an independent predictor of muscle wasting according to low LTI by multivariate logistic regression analysis. We conclude that LTI has important clinical correlations. Determination of LTI may aid in clinical assessment by helping to identify muscle wasting among patients with stage 3–5 CKD.
Sex, Abortion, Domestic Violence and Other Unmentionables: Orthodox Christian Youth in Kenya and Windows into Their Attitudes about Sex
Authors: Black Joseph
Published: April 2017

This article is based on the results of a survey of Orthodox Youth in Kenya and their attitudes about sex, abortion and domestic violence. This survey was taken of the participants of an all-Kenya Orthodox youth conference held in western Kenya in August of 2016. The results give insight into the participants’ sources for first learning about sexual matters, as well as the sources that are preferred today. The youths’ perception of the Orthodox Church’s handling of sexual matters and sexual education is also revealed. Difficult moral issues facing Orthodox Kenyan youth are raised, such as premarital sex, domestic violence, the impact of HIV-AIDS on behavior, and responses to unintended pregnancy, with results providing insight as to how Orthodox youth are navigating the challenges facing them as they grow up into modern life both as Kenyans and as Orthodox Christians. After relating the story told by each set of survey results, conclusions are drawn from each of the issues addressed, with suggestions made as to a way forward, or further questions to pursue.
Horizontal Directional Drilling-Length Detection Technology While Drilling Based on Bi-Electro-Magnetic Sensing
Authors: Wang Yudan , Wen Guojun , Chen Han
Published: April 2017

The drilling length is an important parameter in the process of horizontal directional drilling (HDD) exploration and recovery, but there has been a lack of accurate, automatically obtained statistics regarding this parameter. Herein, a technique for real-time HDD length detection and a management system based on the electromagnetic detection method with a microprocessor and two magnetoresistive sensors employing the software LabVIEW are proposed. The basic principle is to detect the change in the magnetic-field strength near a current coil while the drill stem and drill-stem joint successively pass through the current coil forward or backward. The detection system consists of a hardware subsystem and a software subsystem. The hardware subsystem employs a single-chip microprocessor as the main controller. A current coil is installed in front of the clamping unit, and two magneto resistive sensors are installed on the sides of the coil symmetrically and perpendicular to the direction of movement of the drill pipe. Their responses are used to judge whether the drill-stem joint is passing through the clamping unit; then, the order of their responses is used to judge the movement direction. The software subsystem is composed of a visual software running on the host computer and a software running in the slave microprocessor. The host-computer software processes, displays, and saves the drilling-length data, whereas the slave microprocessor software operates the hardware system. A combined test demonstrated the feasibility of the entire drilling-length detection system.