bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Project-type Convergence Education Program Using a Metaverse Platform on the Career Maturity of Learners
Authors: Woo Ha young
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study is to verify the effect of a project-type convergence education program using the metaverse platform on learners' career maturity. A total of 33 first and second graders of high school interested in art and science participated in 22 sessions for 2 hours once a week using club hours. The entire program consisted of time to express oneself in the first stage (1st to 18th sessions), and the second stage (19th to 22nd sessions) consisted of meeting with field experts and external activities participating in community events. The main activities are expressed in the virtual world under the theme of one's future using the metaverse. As a result of analyzing statistics and learner response tests to verify students' career maturity through this research process, it was found that classes using the metaverse platform greatly helped students' career planning.
Penggunaan Media Audiovisual Film untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Menyimak Dongeng pada Siswa Kelas III SDN-3 Menteng Palangkaraya
Authors: Wahyuni Sri , Sapriline
Published: June 2024

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi pada masalah rendahnya minat belajar siswa terhadap pembelajaran menyimak dongeng. Hal tersebut mengakibatkan rendahnya nilai hasil belajar siswa pada keterampilan menyimak dongeng di sekolah dasar. Siswa merasa pembelajaran menyimak dongeng yang seharusnya menarik menjadi pembelajaran yang membosankan karena hanya dilaksanakan dengan metode ceramah. Padahal pembelajaran menyimak cerita, seperti dongeng dapat dilakukan guru melalui penggunaan media audiovisual film dongeng anak. Penelitian bertujuan untuk menganalisis peningkatan hasil belajar siswa pada kemampuan menyimak dongeng di kelas III SDN-3 Menteng Palangkaraya melalui penggunaan media audiovisual film dongeng anak. Metode penelitian yang diterapkan menggunakan Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) yang dilaksanakan pada subjek penelitian berjumlah 15 siswa kelas III di SDN-3 Menteng Palangkaraya tahun pelajaran 2022/2023. Waktu penelitian ini dimulai dari tahap persiapan hingga pelaporan hasil penelitian dilakukan selama 6 bulan, yakni mulai bulan Maret s.d Agustus 2022. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan peningkatan kemampuan siswa dalam menyimak dongeng di setiap siklus. Ketuntasan belajar di siklus I hanya 60% dengan rata-rata kelas mencapai 69, dan meningkat setelah dilakukan perbaikan pada siklus II yaitu 93% tuntas dengan nilai rata-rata kelas mencapai 80. Dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan bahwa penggunaan media audiovisual film dongeng anak secara signifikan dapat meningkatkan kemampuan siswa dalam menyimak dongeng pada pembelajaran Bahasa Indonesia di kelas III SDN-3 Menteng tahun pelajaran 2022/2023.
Kualitas Paduan Suara Gereja Versus Paduan Suara “Kompetisi”
Authors: Gasong Christian Lamban
Published: June 2024

Gereja sangat lekat hubungannya dengan paduan suara. Ketika mendengar kata paduan suara, yang pertama kali muncul dalam benak kita adalah lagu-lagu rohani gerejawi. Paduan suara ialah suatu kelompok biduan yang terdiri dari sepuluh orang atau lebih yang menyanyikan sebuah lagu dengan membagi suara. Beberapa suara yang berpadu menjadi satu menghasilkan sebuah simfoni yang indah didengar. Fokus dari tulisan ini adalah membedakan antara paduan suara yang dinyanyikan dalam gereja sebagai bagian dari ibadah dengan paduan suara yang dinyanyikan di dalam sebuah kompetisi. Meskipun keduanya mempunyai maksud yang sama yaitu memuji Tuhan, akan tetapi berbeda dari segi persiapan dan tujuan utamanya. Paduan suara dalam kompetisi sangat mengutamakan persiapan yang matang untuk dapat menampilkan yang terbaik dihadapan juri, dan tentu saja hal yang diharapkan adalah sebuah prestasi. Yang ditekankan di dalam tulisan ini adalah paduan suara dapat memberikan penampilan yang terbaik bukan hanya di hadapan juri, tetapi juga harus menampilkan yang terbaik di hadapan Tuhan.
Seminar tentang Metode Responsi Fisik Sosial (RFT) / Total Physical Response (TPR) dalam Pembelajaran & Pengajaran Bhs Inggris di Sekolah Kristen YPKPM Ambon
Authors: Harsono Debora
Published: June 2024

Fakta menunjukkan, bahwa permasalahan pembelajaran dan pengajaran Bahasa Inggris sangatlah kompleks. Pertama, Materi Pelajaran Bahasa Inggris cukup sulit untuk sebagian siswa. Seperti kita ketahui, Bahasa Inggris bukanlah bahasa yang kita ucapkan sejak balita. Secara pribadi, kita belajar Bahasa Inggris sebagai bahasa ketiga dalam kehidupan ini. Ketika batita kita memperoleh bahasa pertama dari ibu, kemudian kita mempelajari Bahasa Indonesia secara formal di bangku TK. Selanjutnya, kita mulai belajar bahasa Inggris di bangku SD atau SMP. Kedua, pengajaran Bahasa Inggris sangatlah membosankan bagi para siswa. Artinya meliputi pengajaran tata bahasa yang sangat rumit, hal ini diperburuk oleh guru Bahasa Inggris yang mengajar para siswa dengan menerapkan metode mengajar yang lama. Mengajar Tata Bahasa dengan banyak mengerjakan latihan tanpa penjelasan materi yang ringkas dan jelas. Banyak guru Bahasa Inggris berpendapat bahwa murid dapat memahami tata bahasa dengan mengerjakan sebanyak mungkin latihan. Belajar dengan menganalisa kesalahan dalam pengerjaan latihan soal tata bahasa. Ketiga, pengejaan dan pengucapan bahasa Inggris sangatlah berbeda dengan kata kata yang tertulis. Karena Bahasa Inggris tidaklah diucapkan sesuai dengan huruf yang tertulis (seperti Bahasa Jerman). Tentunya, hal ini menimbulkan beberapa kesulitan dalam pengejaan dan pengucapan Bahasa Inggris bagi kebanyakan siswa.Tetapi kebanyakan guru TK dan SD di Ambon cenderung menerapkan metode yang lama daripada yang baru. Karena menerapkan metode yang terbaik, berarti kita harus meluangkan lebih banyak waktu, perhatian dan energi untuk mempersiapkan segala sesuatunya dengan baik. Berdasarkan hal itu, maka penulis telah menyampaikan Seminar tentang Metode RFT bagi Pembelajaran dan Pengajaran Bahasa Inggris untuk Sekolah Kristen YPKPM Ambon pada tanggal 8 Agustus 2020. Tetapi pelaksanaannya dilakukan dalam ruangan Dosen Fakultas Kesehatan. Dikarenakan masih dalam masa pandemi Covid l9. Terdapat beberapa hal yang menjadi pertimbangan : l). Adanya pembatasan kegiatan dari pihak Sekolah YPKPM. 2). Meminimalisir jumlah peserta dan terakhir memaklumi kondisi ruangan pertemuan di Sekolah YPKPM yang sedang mengalami sedikit renovasi. Metode yang disampaikan adalah Seminar. Sebagai hasil, dari seminar ini para guru honorer Bahasa Inggris dan mahasiswa PKL dari Universitas Pattimura FKIP Program Studi Bahasa Inggris di sekolah YPKPM memperoleh penambahan pengetahuan wawasan tentang Metode Pembelajaran dan Pengajaran Bahasa Inggris bagi para siswa mereka. Akhirnya, penulis menyimpulkan bahwa penerapan Metode Responsi Fisik Total (RFT) bagi Pembelajaran dan Pengajaran Bahasa Inggris bukanlah suatu hal yang mudah karena membutuhkan lebih banyak keseriusan,Â kesungguhan dan pengobanan waktu di dalam mempersiapkan semua materi pengajaran sekaligus menerapkannya dalam proses Pembelajaran dan Pengajaran Bahasa Inggris bagi anak didik kita.
SOSIALISASI DAN PELATIHAN MASYARAKAT KELURAHAN KUDAMATIRT/RW 006/07, DALAM RANGAKA PENANGANAN PANDEMI COVID 19
Authors: Johandersson Charles , Pembuain Tiwery Ardilson
Published: June 2024

Kota Ambon merupakan Ibu Kota Provinsi Maluku yang terletak di sebelah selatan Pulau Ambon dengan luas keseluruhan sebesar 377 km2 atau dua perlima dari luas Pulau Ambon.Luas ini terdiri dari luas daratan sebesar 359,45 km2 dan perairan sebesar 17,55 km2 dengan garis pantai sepanjang 98 km.Secara astronomis, Kota Ambon terletak di 3° 34' 8,40"–3° 47' 42,00" LS dan 128° 1' 33,60"–128° 18' 3,60" BT.Ambon beriklim hutan hujan tropis. Jumlah penduduknya mencapai 375.760 jiwa dengan luas wilayah 298,61 km² dan sebaran penduduk 1.258 jiwa/km². Kota ini dibelah oleh Teluk Ambon sehingga berada dalam lengkungan yang berbentuk huruf, Kelurahan Kudamati, Penduduknya berjumlah 18106 Jiwa, dengan Jumlah KK 3177 KK, Terdiri dari 7 RW dan 43 RT. Salah satunya adalah RT/RW 006/07 yang dipakai sebagai tempat pelaksanaan proses KKN. RT/RW 006/07 dengan jumlah KK 110 ini termasuk dalam salah satu RT dengan jumlah jiwa yang terbanyak, masyarakatnya tidak mengindahkan peraturan pemerintah untuk pencegahan Covid-19. Dibuktikan dengan tidak ada tempat cuci tangan disetiap rumah dantidak mengetahui cara mencuci tangan yang baik dan benar, warga yang belum mematuhi protocol kesehatan tentang memakai masker saat berada di luar rumah, menjaga jarak antar sesama, menghindari kerumunan, juga jalan menuju bak penampung air bersih di lingkungan RT/RW 006/07 sudah banyak yang rusak, masalah yang dihadapi mitra Rusaknya akses jalan lingkungan menuju Bak Penampungan Air, Kurangnya kesadaran masyarakat dalam mencegah penyebaran covid-19, Kurangnya pengetahuan anak usia dini akan covid-19 dan pencegahannya.
Allosteric activation of the co-receptor BAK1 by the EFR receptor kinase initiates immune signaling
Authors: Mühlenbeck Henning , Tsutsui Yuko , Lemmon Mark A. , Bender Kyle W. , Zipfel Cyril
Published: June 2024

Transmembrane signaling by plant receptor kinases (RKs) has long been thought to involve reciprocal trans-phosphorylation of their intracellular kinase domains. The fact that many of these are pseudokinase domains, however, suggests that additional mechanisms must govern RK signaling activation. Non-catalytic signaling mechanisms of protein kinase domainshave been described in metazoans, but information is scarce for plants. Recently, a non-catalytic function was reported for the leucine-rich repeat (LRR)-RK subfamily XIIa member EFR (ELONGATION FACTOR TU RECEPTOR) and phosphorylation-dependent conformational changes were proposed to regulate signaling of RKs with non-RD kinase domains. Here, using EFR as a model, we describe a non-catalytic activation mechanism for LRR-RKs with non-RD kinase domains. EFR is an active kinase, but a kinase-dead variant retains the ability to enhance catalytic activity of its co-receptor kinase BAK1/SERK3 (BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE 1-ASSOCIATED KINASE 1/SOMATIC EMBRYOGENESIS RECEPTOR KINASE 3). Applying hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) analysis and designing homology-based intragenic suppressor mutations, we provide evidence that the EFR kinase domain must adopt its active conformation in order to activate BAK1 allosterically, likely by supporting αC-helix positioning in BAK1. Our results suggest a conformational toggle model for signaling, in which BAK1 first phosphorylates EFR in the activation loop to stabilize its active conformation, allowing EFR in turn to allosterically activate BAK1.
A syngeneic spontaneous zebrafish model of tp53-deficient, EGFRvIII, and PI3KCAH1047R-driven glioblastoma reveals inhibitory roles for inflammation during tumor initiation and relapse in vivo
Authors: Weiss Alex , D’Amata Cassandra , Pearson Bret J. , Hayes Madeline N.
Published: June 2024

High-throughput vertebrate animal model systems for the study of patient-specific biology and new therapeutic approaches for aggressive brain tumors are currently lacking, and new approaches are urgently needed. Therefore, to build a patient-relevant
in vivo
model of human glioblastoma, we expressed common oncogenic variants including activated human EGFR
vIII
and PI3KCA
H1047R
under the control of the radial glial-specific promoter
her4.1
in syngeneic
tp53
loss-of-function mutant zebrafish. Robust tumor formation was observed prior to 45 days of life, and tumors had a gene expression signature similar to human glioblastoma of the mesenchymal subtype, with a strong inflammatory component. Within early stage tumor lesions, and in an
in vivo
and endogenous tumor microenvironment, we visualized infiltration of phagocytic cells, as well as internalization of tumor cells by
mpeg1.1
:EGFP+ microglia/macrophages, suggesting negative regulatory pressure by pro-inflammatory cell types on tumor growth at early stages of glioblastoma initiation. Furthermore, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene targeting of master inflammatory transcription factors
irf7
or
irf8
led to increased tumor formation in the primary context, while suppression of phagocyte activity led to enhanced tumor cell engraftment following transplantation into otherwise immune-competent zebrafish hosts. Altogether, we developed a genetically relevant model of aggressive human glioblastoma and harnessed the unique advantages of zebrafish including live imaging, high-throughput genetic and chemical manipulations to highlight important tumor suppressive roles for the innate immune system on glioblastoma initiation, with important future opportunities for therapeutic discovery and optimizations.
Adipokinetic hormone signaling mediates the enhanced fecundity of Diaphorina citri infected by ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’
Authors: Li Jiayun , Holford Paul , Beattie George Andrew Charles , Wu Shujie , He Jielan , Tan Shijian , Wang Desen , He Yurong , Cen Yijing , Nian Xiaoge
Published: June 2024

Diaphorina citri
serves as the primary vector for ‘
Candidatus
Liberibacter asiaticus’ (
C
Las), the bacterium associated with the severe Asian form of huanglongbing.
C
Las-positive
D. citri
are more fecund than their
C
Las-negative counterparts and require extra energy expenditure. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms linking metabolism and reproduction is of particular importance. In this study, we found adipokinetic hormone (
DcAKH
) and its receptor (
DcAKHR
) were essential for increasing lipid metabolism and fecundity in response to
C
Las infection in
D. citri.
Knockdown of
DcAKH
and
DcAKHR
not only resulted in the accumulation of triacylglycerol and a decline of glycogen, but also significantly decreased fecundity and
C
Las titer in ovaries. Combined
in vivo
and
in vitro
experiments showed that miR-34 suppresses
DcAKHR
expression by binding to its 3’ untranslated region, whilst overexpression of miR-34 resulted in a decline of
DcAKHR
expression and
C
Las titer in ovaries and caused defects that mimicked
DcAKHR
knockdown phenotypes. Additionally, knockdown of
DcAKH
and
DcAKHR
significantly reduced juvenile hormone (JH) titer and JH signaling pathway genes in fat bodies and ovaries, including the JH receptor,
methoprene-tolerant
(
DcMet
), and the transcription factor,
Krüppel homolog 1 (DcKr-h1)
, that acts downstream of it, as well as the egg development related genes
vitellogenin 1-like
(
DcVg-1-like
),
vitellogenin A1-like
(
DcVg-A1-like
) and the vitellogenin receptor (
DcVgR
). As a result,
C
Las hijacks AKH/AKHR-miR-34-JH signaling to improve
D. citri
lipid metabolism and fecundity, while simultaneously increasing the replication of
C
Las, suggesting a mutualistic interaction between
C
Las and
D. citri
ovaries.
RBM7 deficiency promotes breast cancer metastasis by coordinating MFGE8 splicing switch and NF-kB pathway
Authors: Huang Fang , Dai Zhenwei , Yu Jinmiao , Wang Kainan , Chen Chaoqun , Chen Dan , Zhang Jinrui , Li Mei , Zhao Jinyao , Zhang Wenjing , Li Xiaojie , Qi Yangfan , Wang Yang
Published: June 2024

Aberrant alternative splicing is well-known to be closely associated with tumorigenesis of various cancers. However, the intricate mechanisms underlying breast cancer metastasis driven by deregulated splicing events remain largely unexplored. Here, we unveiled RBM7 as a novel regulator of alternative splicing that plays a crucial role in counteracting the metastatic potential of breast cancer. Through bioinformatics analysis and IHC staining validation, we revealed that RNA binding motif protein 7 (RBM7) is decreased in lymph node and distant organ metastases of breast cancer as compared to primary lesions. Furthermore, we found that low expression of RBM7 is correlated with the reduced disease-free survival of breast cancer patients. Breast cancer cells with RBM7 depletion exhibited an increased potential for lung metastasis compared to scramble control cells. The absence of RBM7 stimulated breast cancer cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. Mechanistically, RBM7 controlled the splicing switch of MFGE8, favoring the production of the predominant isoform of MFGE8, MFGE8-L. This resulted in the attenuation of STAT1 phosphorylation and alterations in cell adhesion molecules. MFGE8-L exerted an inhibitory effect on the migratory and invasive capability of breast cancer cells, while the truncated isoform MFGE8-S, which lack the second F5/8 type C domain had the opposite effect. Particularly, the ectopic expression of MFGE8-L significantly reversed the pro-invasion effect of RBM7 silencing, but did not contribute to the promotion of angiogenesis-related secreted proteins. In RBM7-depleted cells, a gene set enrichment analysis revealed a significant amplification of the NF-κB cascade. Concordantly, RBM7 negatively regulates p65 phosphorylation. Furthermore, an NF-κB inhibitor could obstruct the increase in HUVEC tube formation caused by RBM7 silencing. Clinically, we noticed a positive correlation between RBM7 expression and MFGE8 exon7 inclusion in breast cancer tissues. Therefore, our study not only offer mechanistic insights into how abnormal splicing contributes to the aggressiveness of breast cancer, but also provide a new approach for molecular-targeted therapy in combating breast cancer.
Effect of Tea Extract and Probiotics on Growth Performance and Carcass Yield of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Runa Nazmin Sultana , Hasan Md. Tanvir , Ahmed Md. Esteak , Bahar Fowzia , Ferdous Mahfuza , Islam Md. Sahidul
Published: June 2024

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria have emerged as a result of the sharp rise in the usage of antibiotics as a necessary component of poultry and cattle production. Green tea, which has antioxidant properties, and probiotics, which are living microbial substances, are thought to be suitable alternatives to antibiotics in chicken diets since they have been linked to improved bird development and health.
Aims: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of tea extracts and probiotics on the growth performance and carcass yield of broiler chickens.
Place and Duration of Study:The experiment was performed at Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences,Khulna Agricultural University, Khulna-9100, Bangladesh during the period from January 2023 and April 2023.
Methodology: A total of 200 one day old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly allotted to 5 groups (40 chicks in each group). All were kept in cages for a period of 5 weeks. Dietary treatments used in this experiment were antibiotic free group (basal diet as a control), antibiotic-added group, tea extract group, probiotic group and a combination of tea extract and probiotic group. A starter diet from day 1 to 21 and a grower diet from day 22 to 35 were fed. Weekly assessments of growth performance parameters were documented, and on the 35th day, carcass yield were measured.
Results:The highest body weight gain was observed significantly (P<0.05) in Group E which was 2200gm in comparison to other groups. Total feed consumed by birds was highest in group D (3360gm) whereas the lowest feed consumed in group B treated by antibiotics (3198gm). Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed among feed consumption of different groups. However, the best feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in Group E (1.48) followed by Group D (1.58), Group C (1.60), Group A (1.61) and the worst FCR was recorded in group B (1.64) at 35th days. Among the groups; group E obtained the highest dressed weight followed by D, C and A whereas the lowest dressed weight was reported in B group.
Conclusion: Hence, the results suggested that better growth performance could be achieved in broilers supplemented with probiotics and tea extract and these can be used as herbal growth promoter.
Effectiveness of Twin Date Shopee Advertising on Purchase Decisions Moderated by Brand Awareness: A Study on Students of Malang City, Indonesia
Authors: Haikal Moh. Fikri , Asnawi Nur
Published: June 2024

Aims: The aim of this research is to determine the effectiveness of twin date shopee advertising on purchase decisions moderated by brand awareness: a study on students of Malang city.
Study Design: This study uses quantitative approach and type of approach applied​ is descriptive explorative.
Place of Study: Respondent profiles are presented in terms of gender, institution of origin, using Shopee application, ever seeing Shopee advertisements on twin dates and number of purchases of local products.
Methodology: The sampling methodology used was non-probability sampling, with a purposive sampling technique. The respondents in this study were 130 students, these samples were produced by multiplying 26 statement items multiplied by 5 and resulting a total of 130. The data results were processed by using SmartPLS version 3.0.
Results: Based on the results of hypothesis testing, advertising effectiveness has a positive and significant effect on purchasing decisions and brand awareness is not able to directly moderate advertising effectiveness on purchasing decisions.
Conclusion: The effectiveness of Shopee twin date advertisements on Instagram social media has a positive and significant effect on purchasing decisions for local brand products at Shopee stores among Malang city students. This means that the higher the quality of Shopee Twin Dates advertisements on Instagram social media, the greater the purchasing decisions made by consumers in Malang City. Brand awareness is unable to moderate the effectiveness of Shopee twin date advertisements on Instagram social media on purchasing decisions for local brand products at Shopee stores among Malang city students.
Pattern, Complications and Social Problems of Blood Transfusion in the Neonatal Unit of a Tertiary Hospital in Southern Nigeria
Authors: West Boma Awoala , Wonodi Woroma
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Blood transfusion is a life-saving procedure best carried out as soon as it is recommended to avoid morbidity and mortality.
Aim: To determine the Pattern, complications and social problems of blood transfusion in a neonatal unit in Southern Nigeria.
Methodology: A prospective descriptive study of 179 neonates admitted in the neonatal unit of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital over a period of 3years.
Results: Out of 179 neonates for which blood transfusion was recommended, 172(96.1%) received blood transfusion whereas 7(3.9%) did not. Majority of the children transfused were preterm 144(80.4%), delivered via Caesarean section 108(60.3%) and weighed < 2.5kg 144(80.4%). Most were admitted in their first week of life 143(79.9%) with morbidity pattern for most babies transfused being prematurity, neonatal sepsis and neonatal jaundice. Most transfusions occurred after the first week of admission with first degree relatives 76(45.2%) and commercial donors being the most source of blood transfused. Non-availability of donors and compatibility issues were the commonest reasons for use of commercially donated blood. Most received single blood transfusion 72(71.2%), sedimented cells 160(89.3%) and within 24hours following its recommendation. The reasons for transfusion beyond 24hours were financial constraints 31(57.4%) and no donor 26(48.1%). Commonest reasons for not consenting to blood transfusion were social; financial constraint 4(57.1%) and religious reasons 2(28.6%). Only 1(0.6%) neonate had obvious blood transfusion reaction while 22(13.2%) had post transfusion malaria.
Conclusion: Not all neonates who required blood transfusion received it. The commonest morbidity pattern among recipients were prematurity, neonatal sepsis and neonatal jaundice. Financial constraint was the commonest reason for both delayed blood transfusion and for not consenting to blood transfusion thus policies must be made to ensure ready availability and accessibility of blood in hospitals including the National Health Insurance Scheme in order to reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality.
Promethazine Induced Dystonic Reaction in a Nigerian Child: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Kingsley I. Achigbu , Kenneth Odinaka Kelechi , Uzoma Onwukwe , Patience Ikejiaku Udochikwuka , Chinyere Nwaoha
Published: June 2024

Drug-induced dystonic reactions are reversible movement and posture disorders that occur after administration of certain drugs. They are characterised by intermittent spasmodic or sustained involuntary contractions of various muscles in the body and are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed in clinical practice. These reactions occasionally are life threatening and can be distressing to the patients and their families. In developing countries like Nigeria, parents frequently administer promethazine to their kids to alleviate vomiting. However, it is worthy of note that oral administration of promethazine can cause dystonic reactions.
Herein, we describe the management of a 13-month-old male with promethazine-induced dystonic reactions who was misdiagnosed as severe malaria on presentation. Our aim is to increase awareness of promethazine –induced dystonia among clinicians.
Comparative study about preparation of poly(lactide)/Organophilic montmorillonites nanocomposites through melt blending or ring opening polymerization methods
Authors: Castiello Stefania , Coltelli Maria‐Beatrice , Conzatti Lucia , Bronco Simona
Published: January 2012

The present article is focused onto the study of nanostructure, thermal and mechanical properties of nanocomposites composed of poly(lactide) (PLA), and a constant amount of montmorillonite (MMT) clays (3 wt %). Properly modified organoclays with easily available commercial compounds were prepared in order to allow the homogeneous dispersion of the hydrophilic clays in the polar polymer matrix; in particular, 2‐hydroxyethyl‐trimethylammonium (choline), polyethyleneoxide(15)‐(hydrogenated tallow)‐ammonium, and oligochitosan salts were used as surfactants as their structure can match the requirements of a biocompatible material. These organically modified MMTs (OMMTs) were used for preparing composites by melt blending or by in situ ring opening polymerization (using the clay surfactant as polymerization initiator) followed by melt dispersion into a PLA matrix. Structural, morphological, and thermo‐mechanical properties of the products are compared in order to assess advantages and disadvantages of the two different preparation routes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Physical characterization and performance of iron polymer composites
Authors: Zihlif A. M. , Al‐Ramadin Y. , Sbeih S. A.
Published: January 2012

The physical properties of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) composites containing natural iron oxides with different concentrations 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, and 20% by weight were studied. Powder of iron oxides of 63‐μm particle size was casted with PEO polymer. Absorption UV spectra were collected in the wavelength range 300–800 nm by using a spectrophotometer. The optical energy gap and energy tail widths of localized states of the prepared composites were determined from Urbach formula. The electrical properties were studied using AC impedance measurements performed at different temperatures and in frequency range 100 kHz to 1 MHz. Impedance, dielectric constant, dielectric loss, and AC‐conductivity showed frequency and temperature dependence. The thermal conductivity of the composites was studied as a function of iron oxides concentration and in temperature range 20–50°C. It was found that the thermal conductivity of the composites increases with filler concentration and temperature. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Transport Mechanisms of Activated Oxygen in the Catalytic Soot Oxidation on Systems of Nanoparticle Layers
Authors: Zeng Lintao , Weber Alfred P.
Published: January 2012

Der Transportmechanismus von mittels Platin‐Katalysator aktiviertem Sauerstoff wurde mit einem System aus Nanopartikeln‐Schichten (Sandwichstruktur) untersucht. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die aktivierte Sauerstoffspezies über die Gasphase transportiert wird, und dass der bisher allgemein akzeptierte Oberflächentransport (Spillover) vernachlässigbar ist. Allerdings ist die Lebensdauer der aktivierten Sauerstoffspezies sehr begrenzt. Aus Versuchen mit räumlich getrennten Pt‐ und C‐Schichten wurde die Lebensdauer auf 65 ms abgeschätzt. Der Abbau der aktivierten Sauerstoffspezies erfolgt vermutlich über die Anlagerung an andere Gasmoleküle oder an Wände. Die Identifizierung des dominanten Transportmechanismus und Quantifizierung der katalytischen Wirkung könnte wertvolle Hinweise für die Optimierung des Designs von katalytisch beschichteten Dieselrußpartikelfiltern geben.
Three‐Dimensional Super‐Resolution Imaging of the Midplane Protein FtsZ in Live Caulobacter crescentus Cells Using Astigmatism
Authors: Biteen Julie S. , Goley Erin D. , Shapiro Lucy , Moerner W. E.
Published: January 2012

Single‐molecule super‐resolution imaging provides a non‐invasive method for nanometer‐scale imaging and is ideally suited to investigations of quasi‐static structures within live cells. Here, we extend the ability to image subcellular features within bacteria cells to three dimensions based on the introduction of a cylindrical lens in the imaging pathway. We investigate the midplane protein FtsZ in Caulobacter crescentus with super‐resolution imaging based on fluorescent‐protein photoswitching and the natural polymerization/depolymerization dynamics of FtsZ associated with the Z‐ring. We quantify these dynamics and determine the FtsZ depolymerization time to be <100 ms. We image the Z‐ring in live and fixed C. crescentus cells at different stages of the cell cycle and find that the FtsZ superstructure is dynamic with the cell cycle, forming an open shape during the stalked stage and a dense focus during the pre‐divisional stage.
Non‐Linear Signal Detection Improvement by Radiation Damping in Single‐Pulse NMR Spectra
Authors: Schlagnitweit Judith , Morgan Steven W. , Nausner Martin , Müller Norbert , Desvaux Hervé
Published: January 2012

When NMR lines overlap and at least one of them is affected by radiation damping, the resonance line shapes of all lines are no longer Lorentzian. We report the appearance of narrow signal distortions, which resemble hole‐burnt spectra. This new experimental phenomenon facilitates the detection of tiny signals hidden below the main resonance. Theoretical analysis based on modified Maxwell–Bloch equations shows that the presence of strong transverse magnetization creates a feedback through the coil, which influences the magnetization of all spins with overlapping resonance lines. In the time domain this leads to cross‐precession terms between magnetization densities, which ultimately cause non‐linear behavior. Numerical simulations corroborate this interpretation.
IMPROVING CANAL IRRIGATION PERFORMANCE WITH ON‐FARM WATER STORAGE: EVIDENCE FROM THE INDIRA GANDHI NAHAR PARIYOJANA PROJECT IN INDIA
Authors: Amarasinghe Upali A. , Palanisami K. , Singh O. P.
Published: January 2012

On‐farm water storage (OFWS) is a farmers' response to mitigating inadequate and variable water supply in canal commands in the Indira Gandhi Nahar Pariyojana project in Rajasthan, India. This paper assesses the impact of OFWS on on‐farm performance, based on a sample of farms with and without storage tanks. OFWS facilitated the use of sprinklers, and the use of both together contributed to an improved level of on‐farm water control and timing of inputs, which resulted in an increase in gross irrigated area and crop yields. As a result, the average net value of output per hectare is 56% higher in farms with the new infrastructure. This is a financially viable intervention for farms with an irrigable area larger than 5 ha, with a benefit–cost ratio of 2.2 and internal rate of return of 35%. OFWS can be a catalyst for rejuvenating canal irrigation schemes with low on‐farm performance. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
IN SITU VERIFICATION TECHNOLOGIES OF FLOW METERS FOR SUSTAINABLE WATER MANAGEMENT
Authors: Hassanli A. M. , Pezzaniti D. , Cape J.
Published: January 2012

The accurate measurement of flow rate is an important and an integral part of sustainable water management. The errors associated with measurements are directly dependent on the quality of measurements. The aim of this study was to verify this accuracy and analyse the testing methodologies used to facilitate subsequent verification and to assess the accuracy, suitability and cost‐effectiveness of in situ verification techniques and technologies for closed conduits. The following techniques were reviewed: meter installations gravimetric method, ultrasonic clamp‐on method, insertion meters, electromagnetic meters, tracer methods, reference meters in series, and electronic verification of electromagnetic flow meters. All techniques were evaluated from the perspective of the Australian National Measurement Institute (NMI) requirements for accuracy. A survey and an industry consultation were also conducted across Australia. Two key insights were: (i) in situ verification is an area that few water authorities have had any experience with, and (ii) the lack of available information regarding the economic viability and water accounting benefits of in situ verification. Generally, there is confusion or not enough information about the costs/benefits of in situ verification, or about proven techniques for in situ verification and how to deal with installation and site issues. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinetics of the soluble IL‐1 receptor type I during treatment with an LCAP filter in patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Muratov V. , Paulsson J.M. , Elvin K. , Löfberg R. , Lundahl J.
Published: January 2012

Leukocyte apheresis primarily used for treatment of inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Beside an effect of the apheresis column, the plastic lines in the apheresis system might also have an effect due to interaction between the plastic surfaces and circulating leukocytes and plasma proteins. We recently reported generation of LL‐37 in the plastic lines during leukocyte adsorbing apheresis. This generation might have a positive impact on the immunologic tolerance and therefore be one operational mechanism by which the apheresis treatment executes its effect. In the present study, we report a significant generation of sIL‐1RI in the apheresis lines that is initially absorbed by the LCAP device. This finding, together with our previous data on IL‐1Ra indicate that important members of the IL‐1 family are significantly altered during the LCAP treatment of patients with IBD. Since IL‐1 and its antagonists are important for regulation of inflammatory processes in IBD, we speculate that the LCAP related changes in sIL‐1RI and IL‐1Ra might impact the clinical outcome. These findings have to be taken into consideration when designing new apheresis techniques as well as sham‐controlled studies. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microbiological and pharmacological tests on new antibiotic‐loaded PMMA‐based composites for the treatment of osteomyelitis
Authors: Giavaresi Gianluca , Bertazzoni Minelli Elisa , Sartori Maria , Benini Anna , Della Bora Tommaso , Sambri Vittorio , Gaibani Paolo , Borsari Veronica , Salamanna Francesca , Martini Lucia , Nicoli Aldini Nicolò , Fini Milena
Published: January 2012

Local antibiotic diffusion in rabbit femurs from two new PMMA‐based and nail‐shaped composites, enriched with β‐tricalcium phosphate (P‐TCP) and BaSO4 or only with BaSO4 (P‐BaSO4), and soaked in a solution of gentamicin (G) and vancomycin (V) was studied. Nails were implanted into the intramedullary cavity of healthy and osteomyelitic femurs to study the resolution of infection and to quantify the antibiotic penetration into bone by microbiological, pharmacological, and histological tests. A significant progression of osteomyelitis was recorded 7 weeks after MRSA inoculation, whereas no bacteria were found in animals treated with antibiotic‐loaded nails as confirmed by microbiology and histology (Smeltzer score). The release of both antibiotics from composites was high and prompt both in healthy and infected bone; the amount of V was higher than that of G in all bone samples. Antibiotics of both composites were still present in bone 3 weeks after nail implantation. The P‐BaSO4 composite released a lower amount of antibiotics than did P‐TCP. The G–V combination in vivo exerted a synergistic bactericidal effect, which was confirmed by microbiological, histological, and clinical results (no infection). These new porous PMMA composites, soaked in G–V solution in the operating room, might be an effective and useful drug delivery system for osteomyelitis treatment. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:348–355, 2012
Regenerative potential of TGFβ3 + Dex and notochordal cell conditioned media on degenerated human intervertebral disc cells
Authors: Abbott Rosalyn Delia , Purmessur Devina , Monsey Robert Daniel , Iatridis James Christopher
Published: January 2012

Injection of soluble cell signaling factors into degenerated intervertebral discs (IVDs) offers a minimally invasive treatment that could limit the processes of degeneration by stimulating native matrix repair. This study evaluated the regenerative capacity of degenerated nucleus pulposus (NP) cells obtained from patients undergoing anterior interbody fusions by measuring metabolic activity, DNA content, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content, and cellular phenotype using qRT‐PCR profiling with a custom array of 42 genes. NP cells were cultured in alginate for 7 days with 4 treatment groups: transforming growth factor beta 3 (TGFβ3) + dexamethasone (Dex), soluble factors released from notochordal cells (NCs) cultured in alginate (NCA), soluble factors released from NCs in their native tissue environment (NCT), and basal media. TGFβ3 + Dex stimulated degenerated human NP cells to proliferate and exhibit an anti‐catabolic gene expression profile (with a decrease in ADAMTS5 and MMP1 compared to basal, and an increase in SOX9, decrease in ADAMTS5, MMP1, collagen I and collagen III compared to day 0), while NCA stimulated the greatest GAG per cell. We conclude that degenerated human NP cells exhibit regenerative potential, and that an optimal treatment will likely require treatments, such as TGFβ3 + Dex, which were able to increase cell metabolism and reduce catabolism, as well as treatments with factors found in NC conditioned medium, that were able to produce high amounts of GAG per cell. Additional studies to optimize NC culture conditions are required to determine if NC conditioned medium can be made with the capacity to enhance NP cell proliferation and metabolism. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:482–488, 2012
Vascularized tendon incorporated in reverse homodigital and heterodigital island flaps for the reconstruction of dorsal digital defects
Authors: Rahmanian‐Schwarz Afshin , Schiefer Jennifer , Amr Amro , Schaller Hans‐Eberhard , Hirt Bernhard
Published: January 2012

Background: An adequate range of motion (ROM) of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint is indispensable for fine motor skills of the hand. Reconstruction of extended skin and tendon loss of the distal phalanx is often challenging for surgeons and may lead to functional impairment of the injured finger. This article presents an option for a one‐step functional and esthetical reconstruction of dorsal digital defects using combined island flaps. Methods: Vascularized tendons were harvested incorporated in reverse homodigital and heterodigital island flaps to treat skin and extensor tendon loss of patients over their DIP joints. In a 6‐month follow‐up, we evaluated the active ROM and fine motor skills of the involved fingers as well as the patients' satisfaction. Results: Six months postoperatively satisfactory functional and sensory results of the donor site finger have been reported. The mean ROM for the recipient finger was 0°/25° for the DIP joint. All flaps remained viable and full finger length was preserved. Patients stated adequate till high satisfaction with respect to operation time, pain, and finger appearance. Conclusion: The vascularized tendon incorporated in reverse island flaps provides a sufficient method to restore function of the DIP joint after complex injury and prevents finger deformity, arthrodesis, or amputation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Novel topology of compact coplanar waveguide resonant cell low‐pass filter
Authors: Kurgan P. , Bekasiewicz A. , Pietras M. , Kitlinski M.
Published: January 2012

In this study, a novel pseudoelliptic function low‐pass filter (LPF) constituted by a compact coplanar waveguide resonant cell has been designed and manufactured. The lumped‐element seven‐pole prototype has been adequately realized by using complementary perturbations located both in signal line and ground plane metallization. The fabricated uniplanar LPF offers a compact size of 5.6 × 9.8 mm2, return loss better than −26 dB over the passband, stop‐band rejection better than 27 dB up to 8 GHz and a narrow transition band. The experimental results are in agreement with theoretical characteristics. The solution proposed is superior to the classic semilumped element counterpart in the level of length reduction (67% of abbreviation). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:732–735, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26594
Miniaturized coaxial cavity resonator based on anisotropic negative permeability metamaterial loading
Authors: Esfahani Nasrin Nasr , Rezaee Payman , Schünemann Klaus , Knöchel Reinhard
Published: January 2012

In this letter, a miniaturized coaxial cylindrical cavity resonator was presented, in which a combination of an ordinary dielectric material and a metamaterial layer has been inserted. First, the general dispersion relation was formulated for such a resonator in three different cases in which the metamaterial layer is: (i) an isotropic μ and ε negative (double negative or DNG) medium; (ii) an isotropic μ negative (MNG) medium; or (iii) an anisotropic MNG (AMNG) medium. Extracting the approximate dispersion relation in the subwavelength scenario, it is shown that this configuration may in principal exhibit an arbitrary low resonant frequency for a fixed dimension, not only in the case of isotropic DNG or isotropic MNG layers but also in the case of a much less complex AMNG layer, which is of importance from the practical realization point of view. In comparison with miniaturized rectangular cavities and also miniaturized one‐dimensional resonators, the aforementioned resonator provides the possibility of selecting a distinct mode and also provides a further degree of freedom in the approximate dispersion relation, which brings more flexibility in designing miniaturized resonators. As an example, design and simulation of a miniaturized coaxial cavity resonator together with the complete design of the AMNG layer are presented. The resultant cavity diameter is shortened by ∼ 60% in comparison with theoretical minimum dimensions of a cylindrical cavity resonator of the same height. Finally, the designed cavity has been fabricated and tested. The measured and simulated responses are in close agreement with each other. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:595–599, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26600
Internal coupled‐fed loop antenna integrated with notched ground plane for wireless wide area network operation in the mobile handset
Authors: Chu Fang‐Hsien , Wong Kin‐Lu
Published: January 2012

An internal wireless wide area network (824–960/1710–2170 MHz) antenna suitable to be disposed at a notched region (size 10 × 40 mm2) of the system ground plane of the handset to achieve compact integration therein is presented.The notched system ground plane, compared to the traditional rectangular system ground plane at which the internal antenna is generally disposed at the entire top or bottom edge of the ground plane, can lead to more compact layout design of the internal antenna and associated electronic elements in the handset. The proposed antenna has a simple structure occupying a small volume of 10 × 40 × 5 mm3 and comprising a monopole feed and a coupled strip. The latter is coupled‐fed by the monopole feed to provide a 0.25‐wavelength loop path, which generates a 0.25‐wavelength loop mode at about 850 MHz and a higher‐order loop mode at about 1.7 GHz. The monopole feed also contributes a 0.25‐wavelength mode at about 2.1 GHz to combine with the higher‐order loop mode to form the antenna's upper band. The bandwidth enhancement of the 0.25‐wavelength loop mode is obtained by adding an external bandstop circuit, which makes the desired antenna's lower band achieved. The antenna also meets the specific absorption rate and hearing‐aid compatibility requirements for practical applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:553–555, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26620
Very compact ultra‐wideband antenna with CPW‐FED monopole
Authors: Koohestani Mohsen , Naser‐Moghadasi Mohammad
Published: January 2012

This article presents a very compact printed antenna for various ultra‐wideband (UWB) applications.The antenna structure comprises of a loop‐shaped radiating element with a trapezium shaped ground plane, and it uses a tapered coplanar waveguide feed line for excitation. The antenna exhibits a 10 dB impedance bandwidth from 3.34 to 16.3 GHz, which constitutes about 132%. The antenna radiates omnidirectionally in the H‐plane over the UWB band defined by Federal Communication Commission. The antenna dimensions are restricted to 10 mm × 18 mm × 1.6 mm. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:560–564, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26622
Analysis on dynamic characteristics of reflective semiconductor optical amplifier based on a memory polynomial model
Authors: Liu Zhansheng , Violas Manuel Alberto , Carvalho Nuno Borges
Published: January 2012

This article presents the AM–AM and AM–PM characteristics of a bulk reflective semiconductor optical amplifier (RSOA) based on a memory polynomial model. The coefficients of the behavioral model are extracted and validated by experimental results. The nonlinearity and memory effects of RSOA are demonstrated by its dynamic AM‐AM and AM‐PM characteristics. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:805–808, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26636
Dual‐band slim inverted‐F antenna with enhanced operational bandwidth
Authors: Razali Ahmad R. , Bialkowski Marek E.
Published: January 2012

In this article, the design of a dual‐band slim inverted‐F antenna with an enhanced operational bandwidth is presented. Initially, a slim inverted‐F antenna for operation in 850 and 1900 MHz bands supported by a large ground plane of 120 × 40 mm is introduced. This antenna offers dual band operation but with narrow bandwidth around each desired frequency. To reduce its ground plane length to 90 mm as well as to improve its operational bandwidth, a ground slot and a strip are introduced. By the proper placing of the slot and the strip, the lower frequency bandwidth is improved, while the good performance at the upper band is maintained. The designed antenna is fabricated and experimentally tested showing operational bandwidths covering GSM850 and PCS1900, with reference to the 6 dB return loss (VSWR 3:1). Its radiation patterns are omnidirectional at the lower band and become directional at higher frequencies, with the gain varying between −1 and 3 dBi. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:684–689, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26643