bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MENINGKATKAN PEMAHAMAN KONSEP SISWA MELALUI MODEL PEMBELAJARAN BERBASIS FENOMENA (PBF)
Authors: Rizkyanda Novinda , Jamal M. Arifuddin , Suyidno Suyidno
Published: July 2018

Penelitian ini secara umum bertujuan untuk meningkatkan pemahaman konsep dalam melalui model PBF pada pokok bahasan konsep zat. Secara khusus untuk mendeskripsikan keterlaksanaan RPP model PBF, aktivitas siswa, hasil belajar siswa, dan respon siswa. Metode penelitian yang digunakan merupakan penelitian tindakan kelas model Hopkins. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terjadi peningkatan pemahaman konsep pada aspek translasi, aspek interpretasi, dan aspek ekstrapolasi. Hasil observasi pada pembelajaran model PBF terlaksana dengan baik dan aktivitas siswa mengarah pada student centered learning. Berdasarkan angket yang disebar menunjukkan respon siswa  terhadap pembelajaran secara umum tergolong baik. Diperoleh simpulan bahwa pemahaman konsep siswa dapat ditingkatkan melalui model PBF. Kata kunci: Pemahaman konsep, model PBF, konsep zat
Pengembangan Perangkat Pembelajaran Quantum Teaching Pada Materi Ajar Elastisitas
Authors: Rusyadi Ahmad , Zainuddin Zainuddin , Wati Mustika
Published: July 2018

The low of student learning outcomes in learning physics, because learning process tense, students interest to learning in science is low yet. It is necessary for research that aims to describe the effectiveness of the quantum teaching-learning development to improving student learning outcomes. The aim, in particular, are described: (1) the feasibility of the device, (2) implemented RPP, (3) student activities, (4) student learning outcomes, and (5) the student's interest. Learning refers to the development using of Dick & Carey model. Data collection techniques used observation, achievement test, and questionnaire. Data obtained by descriptive qualitative and quantitative. The results showed: (1) a device in the effective category to be used, (2) implemented RPP at a meeting I, II, III are goods category, (3) each meeting student activity are increased in the excellent category, (4) increase every classical completeness meeting with percentages respectively 71.18%, 81.25% and 84.37%, (5) the student's interest towards learning well categorized. The retrieved conclusion that the effectiveness of the quantum teaching-learning teaching materials elasticity in the effective category.
Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa Melalui Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Group Investigation
Authors: Gusmawati Gusmawati , Zainuddin Zainuddin , Wati Mustika
Published: July 2018

Conventional learning makes students more dependent on teachers, less active students participation in the learning process cause low mastery of  learning results. Therefore, the aim of the research is to describe the effectiveness of the implementation of cooperative learning model Group Investigation type in improving student learning results. In particular, this study aimed to describe: (1) the implementation of the lesson plan, (2) the learning results after implementation of cooperative learning model Group Investigation type, (3) social skills of students, (4) the response of students towards learning. The type of the research is a class action research. This research consist of three cycles, each cycle includes the plan, action/observation, and reflective. Devices and instruments used in this research is the lesson plans, handouts, worksheets, THB, observation sheets of lesson plan implementation, and social skills of students, and student response sheets. Data follected through tests, observations, questionnaires, and documentation. The results showed that (1) lesson plan implementation in the first cycle was 76.00%, the second cycle is 84.00% and the third cycle was 99.33%. (2) mastery in the classical student learning results in the first cycle was 63.33%, the second cycle was 80.00%, and the third cycle is 100%. (3) students' social skills for active listening skills have an average percentage of each cycle for 86.67%, 83.33% argued for asking question was 90.83% and 84.16% for active discussion. (4) the general student response was good. In the conclusion, cooperative learning model Group Investigation type effective in improving student learning results in class XI IPA 1 SMAN 4 Banjarmasin  on the subject of static fluida.
Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas XI IPA 1 SMA KORPRI Banjarmasin Melalui Penerapan Model Quantum Teaching Pada Materi Ajar Usaha-Energi
Authors: Pratama Desi Dewi , Jamal M. Arifuddin , Suyidno Suyidno
Published: July 2018

Rendahnya hasil belajar siswa pada pelajaran fisika dikarenakan siswa jarang terlibat dalam pembelajaran. Oleh karena itu dilakukan penelitian  yang bertujuan meningkatkan hasil belajar. Tujuan khusus dari penelitian ini adalah mendiskripsikan (1) keterlaksanaan RPP, (2) peningkatan hasil belajar, (3) aktivitas siswa, (4) respon siswa. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian tindakan kelas (PTK) model Hopkins yang terdiri atas tiga siklus, di mana setiap siklus meliputi plan, action/observation, dan  reflective. Data diperoleh melalui  tes, observasi, angket, dan dokumentasi. Teknik analisis data secara deskriptif kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa (1) keterlaksanaan RPP model quantum teaching pada siklus I secara umum terlaksana sangat baik, siklus II dan siklus III terlaksana sangat baik, (2) aktivitas siswa terdiri dari membaca, mendengar penjelasan, bertanya, diskusi, dan menyampaikan pendapat, sehingga secara umum aktivitas siswa pada siklus I aktif, sedangkan pada siklus II dan III sangat aktif, (3) peningkatan ketuntasan hasil belajar siswa secara klasikal yaitu siklus I sebesar 80% (tidak tuntas), siklus II sebesar 88% (tuntas) dan siklus III sebesar 91% (tuntas), (4) respon siswa  pada aspek  attention, relevance,  confidence, dan satisfaction , dalam kategori baik. Simpulan bahwa hasil belajar siswa kelas XI IPA 1 SMA KORPRI Banjarmasin dapat ditingkatkan melalui penerapan model quantum teaching pada materi ajar usaha-energi.
Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas VII B SMP Negeri 1 Tamban Pada Materi Ajar Kalor Menggunakan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Team Assisted Individualization (TAI)
Authors: Yuliandary Aidha , Zainuddin Zainuddin , Wati Mustika
Published: July 2018

Rendahnya hasil belajar siswa kelas VII B SMP Negeri 1 Tamban terhadap pelajaran fisika mendorong perlu dilakukan penelitian yang bertujuan untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa kelas VII B SMP Negeri 1 Tamban pada materi ajar kalor menggunakan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Team Assisted Individualization (TAI). Tujuan secara umum, yaitu mendeskripsikan:(1) keterlaksanaan RPP (2) keterampilan sosial siswa (3) hasil belajar siswa (4) respon siswa.  Penelitian ini menggunakan alur penelitian tindakan kelas yang terdiri dari tiga siklus, dimana setiap siklus meliputi perencanaan, pelaksanaan, pengamatan dan refleksi. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan observasi, tes, angket dan dokumentasi. Sedangkan teknik analisis secara deskritif kualitatif dan deskritif kuantitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa penerapan pembelajaran kooperatif dapat meningkatkan: (1) keterlaksanaan RPP pada siklus I, II dan III, yakni sebesar 88%; 92% dan 100%. (2) ketuntasan siswa secara klasikal pada siklus I, II dan III masing-masing sebesar 74%; 83%; dan 96%. (3) keterampilan sosial siswa pada siklus I, II dan III, yakni sebesar 89 %, 96% dan 98% dengan kategori sangat baik. (4) respon siswa terhadap proses pembelajaran kooperatif tipe TAI banyak memberikan respon yang positif dengan katagori baik. Diperoleh simpulan bahwa dengan menerapkan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe TAI  pada materi ajar kalor efektif dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa kelas VII B SMP Negeri 1 Tamban.
Pengembangan Lembar Kegiatan Siswa (LKS) Dan Media Pembelajaran Inkuiri Berbasis Keterampilan Berpikir Kritis
Authors: Jayanti Ida Bagus Rini , Suyidno Suyidno , Hartini Sri
Published: July 2018

LKS at schools still contained the materials and exercises without learning media have been caused the low ability of students in critical thinking skills. Therefore, carried out a research that aims to produce LKS and learning media of inquiry based on critical thinking skills of junior high school students on the subject of pressure effectively. The research spesific objectives are to describe the feasibility of LKS and learning media, critical thinking skills of students, and the response of students towards LKS and learning media. This research is ASSURE model development. The subjects were 30 students of class VIII-C SMP Negeri 1 Banjarmasin. The data were analyzed by descriptive quantitative and qualitative. Findings were obtained: (1) LKS which developed satisfied feasibility about approach content, presentation instruction, presentation of content, appropriateness of content, and performance of physic, (2) learning media which developed satisfied feasibility about benefits, presentation, and use of media props, (3) critical thinking skills of students categorized as good, (4) the students  response of interests and attitudes towards LKS categorized as good, (5) the students response of interests and attitudes towards learning media categorized as very good. Retrieved conclusion that LKS and learning media of inquiry based on critical thinking skills of students who produced effectively.
Penerapan Tipe Learning Cycle Melalui Model Pengajaran Langsung Untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa
Authors: Nisa Rakhmatun , Zainuddin Zainuddin , Suriasa Suriasa
Published: July 2018

Strategi pembelajaran yang kurang tepat mengakibatkan kurangnya perhatian siswa terhadap proses pembelajaran sehingga mengakibatkan hasil belajar  tidak maksimal. Oleh karena itu dilakukan penelitian yang bertujuan meningkatkan hasil belajar dengan menggunakan tipe learning cycle melalui model pengajaran langsung. Secara khusus penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan: (1) keterlaksanaan RPP tipe learning cycle melalui model pengajaran langsung, (2) hasil belajar, (3) keterampilan prosedural, (4) respon siswa. Jenis penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian tindakan kelas model Hopkins yang terdiri dari 3 siklus, setiap siklus meliputi plan, action/observation, dan reflective. Subjek penelitian adalah 34 siswa. Data diperoleh melalui tes, observasi, angket, dan dokumentasi. Data dianalisis secara deskriptif kualitatif dan deskriptif kuantitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa (1) keterlaksanaan RPP selama proses pembelajaran meningkat yaitu 86,94% pada siklus I menjadi 97,08% pada siklus II dan 100% pada siklus III, (2) keterampilan prosedural siswa mengalami peningkatan tiap siklus, (3) peningkatan ketuntasan hasil belajar siswa secara klasikal yaitu pada siklus I sebesar 65,62% (tidak tuntas), siklus II sebesar 87,09% (tuntas), dan siklus III sebesar 90,00% (tuntas), (4) respon siswa  secara umum tergolong baik. Diperoleh simpulan bahwa keefektifan pembelajaran yang menerapkan tipe learning cycle melalui model pengajaran langsung dalam meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa kelas VIII-D SMP Negeri 31 Banjarmasin pada materi ajar cahaya berkategori efektif.
Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Think Talk Write (TTW) Untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Siswa
Authors: Purwanti Ratih , Zainuddin Zainuddin , Suyidno Suyidno
Published: July 2018

Nature of education is to optimize the learning outcomes of cognitive, affective, and psychomotor students, but in fact, the result of students of class X-1 SMAN 1 Anjir Pasar is still low. Conducted research described the effectiveness of the cooperative learning model TTW in improving student learning outcomes. The specific aims of this research describe feasibility RPP, learning outcomes, social skills, and student response. The research using classroom action research model of Hopkins which consists of 3 cycles include planning, action/observation, and reflection. The research subjects consisted of 28 students. The data obtained through the tests, observations, questionnaires, and documentation. The data were analyzed by descriptive qualitative and quantitative. The findings of research showed: (1) feasibility RPP in cycle I, II, III respectively 79,40%; 91,90%; 95,83%, (2) an increase in exhaustiveness of students learning outcomes in classical the first cycle of 72,0% (not completed), the second cycle of 88,5% (complete), and the third cycle was 92,0% (complete), (3) social skills of students in the first cycle is generally pretty good, the second cycle increased to well, and a very good third cycle, and (4) students positive response to cooperative learning model TTW generally good. Conclusion of research is the effectiveness of application of cooperative learning model TTW in improving student learning outcomes in class X-1 SMAN 1 Anjir Pasar on the subject of heat transfer categorized effectively.
Perbedaan Keterampilan Berpikir Kreatif Siswa Terhadap Strategi Pembelajaran Multiple Intelligences Dan Contextual Teaching Learning
Authors: Bayyinah Rahmatul , An'nur Syubhan , Suriasa Suriasa
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT: Creative thinking skills of the students of class VII MTsN Mulawarman Banjarmasin on physics lesson is low. This is due to the evaluation of learning rarely apply creative thinking skills, as well as the implementation of learning activities predominantly on one type of intelligence, logical-mathematical. Therefore, we need a strategy that can develop creative thinking skills and refers to the different spheres of intelligence, multiple intelligences learning strategies that contextual teaching and learning (CTL). The general objective of this study is to describe the differences between the multiple intelligences and learning strategies (CTL) to the creative thinking skills of students. Research conducted a quasi-experimental study design randomized pretest and posttest control group. The study population was all students of class VII MTsN Mulawarman Banjarmasin and the sample were students of class VII D as an experimental class and E class VII as a control class. Data collection was conducted using test instruments, and multiple intelligences scale questionnaire. The analysis technique used is descriptive statistics and parametric assumptions to test the hypothesis. The results showed that in general there is a difference between the students' creative thinking skills and classroom control classroom experiment. This is supported by the results of the analysis, which was performed on the data posttest and gain scores, two classes, namely thit , 3.177 > 1.665 ttab , and thit , 2.104 > ttab , 1,665 .multiple intelligences learning strategies; creative thinking skills
Pengembangan Lembar Kegiatan Siswa (LKS) Dan Media Pembelajaran IPA SMP Berbasis Keterampilan Berpikir Kritis
Authors: Mukarram Abdullah Al , Hartini Sri , Wati Mustika
Published: July 2018

Keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa masih tergolong rendah. Hal ini diduga karena perangkat pembelajaran seperti LKS dan media yang digunakan siswa belum mampu membantu dalam menemukan konsep dan merangsang kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa.Oleh sebab itu dilakukan penelitian pengembangan LKS dan media pembelajaran IPA dengan tujuan dihasilkan LKS dan media pembelajaran IPA SMP berbasis keterampilan berpikir kritis. Tujuan khusus penelitian ini adalah mendeskripsikan: (1) kelayakan LKS yang dikembangkan, (2) kelayakan media pembelajaran yang dikembangkan, (3) keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa, (4) respon siswa terhadap LKS, (5) respon siswa terhadap media. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian pengembangan dengan model ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). Subyek penelitian adalah siswa kelas VIII-E berjumlah 33 siswa.Data diperoleh dengan instrumen validasi LKS dan media, lembar penilaian keterampilan berpikir kritis dan angket respon terhadap LKS dan media.Analisis data menggunakan teknik deskriptif kualitatif dan kuantitatif. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian bahwa: (1) LKS yang dikembangkan sebesar 94,26% berkategori sangat layak, (2) media pembelajaran yang dikembangkan sebesar 95,00% berkategori sangat layak, (3) keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa sebesar 93,32% berkategori sangat baik, (4) respon siswa terhadap LKS sebesar 75,40% berkategori baik, (5) respon siswa terhadap media sebesar 77,00% berkategori baik. Diperoleh kesimpulan bahwa LKS dan media yang dikembangkan layak digunakan dan membantu siswa dalam meningkatkan keterampilan berpikir kritis.
Second Year Nursing Students’ Experiences of Clinical Placement in a Rural Health Centre
Authors: Nuuyoma Vistolina , Ashipala Daniel Opotamutale
Published: July 2018

Introduction: In nursing education, it is expected that students take theoretical and practical courses. Practical components are an integral part of learning in nurses’ training, which is effected through placement of students in different clinical settings. In Namibia, hospitals, clinics and health centres are popularly utilized as a clinical environment for placing nursing students at all levels of studies. However, little is known on how students experience the placement at the health centres. In 2016 Nursing students from a satellite campus were placed at a health centre.Methods: The study followed qualitative research principles, and it was explorative, descriptive and contextual in nature. Data were collected from reflections submitted by second year nursing students from a UNAM satellite campus upon completion of their two weeks placement at a health centre in 2016. Data were analyzed using content analysis as a data analysis strategy. Trustworthiness of this study was ensured by applying the criteria of Lincoln and Guba, namely: credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability of the study.Results: The five themes that emerged from the study are: ‘interpersonal factors’, ‘students’ reactions to the learning context’, ‘enablers of students’ learning at a rural health centre’, ‘challenges experienced by students’, and ‘recommendations made by students on learning in a rural health centre’.Conclusion: It is evident that good interpersonal interaction between nursing staff, students and patients appear to have a positive impact on learning. Students reflected on limited supply of equipment, and limited cases available as challenges experienced during their placement. Furthermore, students made suggestions to improve placements in a rural health centre.
4 + n -dimensional Topoisomerase-like Waves
Authors: Sepehri Alireza
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we propose a new model which allows to consider all evolutions of DNA from viewpoint of an observer on 11-dimensional manifold. In this model, DNA is an 4 + n-dimensional object in 11 dimensional space-time which is compacted to 4-dimensional manifold. This leads to the emergence of a curved space-time around DNA and production of some new waves. To exchange information between DNAs, it is needed that waves play the role of topoisomerases in extra dimensions. These topoisomerase-like waves open packings of DNA, read it’s information and compact it again. The shape and properties of these waves are completely diﬀerent from gravitational and electromagnetic ones. By reducing dimensions from 11 to 4, the topoisomerase-like waves obtain the properties of known ﬁelds like gravitons and photons.
Neurogenic Differentiation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells on Graphene-Polycaprolactone Hybrid Nanofibers
Authors: Seonwoo Hoon , Jang Kyung-Je , Lee Dohyeon , Park Sunho , Lee Myungchul , Park Sangbae , Kim Jangho , Chung Jong Hoon
Published: July 2018

Stem cells derived from dental tissues—dental stem cells—are flavored due to their easy acquisition. Among them, dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) extracted from the dental pulp have many advantages such as high proliferation and highly purified population. Although their ability for neurogenic differentiation has been highlighted and neurogenic differentiation using electrospun nanofibers (NFs) has been performed, graphene-incorporated NFs have never been applied for DPSC neurogenic differentiation. Here reduced graphene oxide (RGO)-polycaprolactone (PCL) hybrid electrospun NFs were developed and applied for enhanced neurogenesis of DPSCs. First, RGO-PCL NFs were fabricated by electrospinning with incorporation of RGO and alignments, and their chemical and morphological characteristics were evaluated. Furthermore, in vitro NF properties such as influence on the cellular alignments and cell viability of DPSCs were also analyzed. The influences of NFs on DPSCs neurogenesis was also analyzed. The results confirmed that an appropriate concentration of RGO promoted better DPSC neurogenesis. Furthermore, the use of random NFs facilitated contiguous junctions of differentiated cells, whereas the use of aligned NFs facilitated aligned junction of differentiated cells along the direction of NF alignments. Our findings showed that RGO-PCL NFs can be a useful tool for DPSC neurogenesis, which will help regeneration in neurodegenerative and neurodefective diseases.
Graphs and Binary Systems
Authors: Kim Hee Sik , Neggers J. , Ahn Sun Shin
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we observe that if X is a set and (Bin(X), □) is the semigroup of binary systems on X, then its center ZBin(X) consists of the locally-zero-semigroups and that these can be modeled as (simple) graphs and conversely. Using this device we show that we may obtain many results of interest concerning groupoids by reinterpreting graph theoretical properties and at the same time results on graphs G may be obtained by considering them as elements of centers of the semigroups of binary systems (Bin(X), □) where X = V(G), the vertex set of G.
Vitamin D in Neurological Diseases: A Rationale for a Pathogenic Impact
Authors: Moretti Rita , Morelli Maria elisa , Caruso Paola
Published: July 2018

It is widely known that vitamin D receptors have been found in neurons and glial cells and their highest expression is in the hippocampus, hypothalamus, thalamus and subcortical grey nuclei, and substantia nigra. The vitamin D helps the regulation of neurotrophin, neural differentiation and maturation, through the control operation of growing factors synthesis (ie NGF and GDNF), the trafficking of the septo-hyppocampal pathway, and the control of the synthesis process of different neuromodulators (such as Ach, DA, and GABA). Based on these assumptions, we have written this review in order to summarize the potential role of vitamin D in neurological pathologies. The work could be titanic, and might result very fuzzy and even incoherent, if we would not have conjectured to taper our first intentions and devoted our interests towards three mainstreams: demyelinating pathologies, vascular syndromes and neurodegeneration. Due to the lack of effective therapeutic options, a part from the disease modifying strategies, the role of different risk factors should be investigated in neurology, as far as their correction may lead to the improvement of the cerebral conditions. We have explored the relationships between the gene-environmental influence and long term vitamin D deficiency, as a risk factor for the development of different types of neurological disorders, along with the role and the rationale of therapeutic trials with vitamin D implementation.
Deparmental Auction State Officers’ Public Service of Makassar City
Authors: Hakim Lukman
Published: July 2018

This research was focused on Public Service of departmental auction state officers of Makassar . It aimed to determine the state officers’ performance who passed departmental auction that had been assessed based on competence, and integrity in particular, the ability to provide and develop good service to the community at the 9 Local Government Work Unit (SKPD) Makassar, namely the Regional Revenue Board of Makassar City, the Land Board of Makassar City, the Office of Investment and Integrated One Stop Service of Makassar City and the Department of Population and Civil Registration of Makassar City, Ujung Pandang District Office, Makassar District , Rappocini District , Bontoala District , and Panakkukang District . The 9 SKPD were chosen purposively from 53 SKPD within the Makassar City Administration by considering the representation of SKPD of the Agency and the Department as well as the representation of the district Institution located in the northern, middle and southern part of Makassar City. Interviews and observation data were collected by 3 interviewers and narrated as facts and elaborated by the research team with qualitative and normative studies. The result of the research shown that the state officers’ performance in Makassar city administration area had been able to develop good service to the society at 9 Local Government Work Unit (SKPD) of Makassar City. However, it was necessary to improve the quality of human relations especially for the leading position of all SKPD so that the communication can be better served to the citizens. System reward dan punishment need to be upgraded and enforced as a trigger of employees’ motivation in work.
An Overview of New Results in Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel Testing
Authors: Rayner John C. W. , Rippon Paul
Published: July 2018

The Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel (CMH) methodology is a suite of tests applicable to particular tables of count data. Inference is conditional on the treatment and outcome totals on each stratum being known before sighting the data. The CMH tests are important for analyzing randomised blocks data when the responses are categorical rather than continuous. This overview will first review the traditional CMH tests and then explore new alternative presentations of the ordinal CMH tests. Next the ordinal CMH tests will be extended so they can be used to test for higher moment effects. Finally unconditional analogues of the extended CMH tests will be developed.
Applying the SDGs to cities: business as usual or new dawn?
Authors: Zinkernagel Roland , Evans James , Neij Lena
Published: July 2018

With growing urbanisation the sustainability of cities has become increasingly important. Although cities have been using indicators for a long time it is only in the last decades that attempts have been made to collate indicators into indicator sets with the aim of reflecting the many different aspects that need to be covered to assess the sustainability of a city. The aim of this paper is to review how indicators for monitoring sustainable urban development have evolved over time and compare them to the indicators suggested by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The review reveals that previous indicator sets emphasised environmental sustainability, health and economic growth. It is also shown that indicator sets that pre-date the SDGs lacked dimensions such as gender equality and reduced inequalities. In all, the SDG indicators provide the possibility of a more balanced and integrated approach to urban sustainability monitoring. At the same time, a methodology is needed to facilitate the adaptation process of localising the SDGS, targets and indicators. Challenges of local application include their large number, their generic characteristics and the need to complement them with specific indicators that are more relevant at the city level.
Programmable Adaptive S-BVTs for Future Optical Metro Networks Adopting SOA-Based Switching Nodes
Authors: Martín González Laura , van der Heide Sjoerd , Xue Xuwei , van Weerdenburg John , Calabretta Nicola , Okonkwo Chigo , Svaluto Moreolo Michela , Fábrega Josep M.
Published: July 2018

Adaptive Sliceable-Bandwidth Variable Transceivers (S-BVTs) are key enabler for future optical networks. In particular, those based on Discrete MultiTone (DMT) modulation and Direct Detection (DD) can be considered a flexible solution suitable to address the cost efficiency requirement of optical metro networks. In this paper, we propose to use this cost-effective S-BVT option/implementation in optical metro networks adopting switching nodes based on Semiconductor Optical Amplifier (SOA) technology. Bit loading (BL) and power loading (PL) algorithms are applied to the Digital Signal Processing (DSP) modules, to maximize the performance and/or the capacity as well as enhance the flexibility and adaptability of the system. Our analysis considers switching nodes based on SOAs with and without filtering elements and fiber spans of 25 km. We present the results up to 100 km, with and without SOA-based nodes. Firstly, we analyze the adaptive BVT transmission using the Margin Adaptive (MA) BL/PL algorithm at a fixed bit rate of 28 Gb/s. The possibility of controlling the SOAs current is a key factor to face the transmission impairments due to the fiber and the filtering elements. We also analyze the system considering Rate Adaptive (RA) transmission at a fixed target BER of 3.8·10−3, showing that a maximum capacity above 34 Gb/s can be achieved for a single span of 25 km. Although the cascading of filtering elements still constitutes a limiting factor, we show that an improvement of the net bit rate performance can be obtained thanks to the combined use of S-BVT and SOA technology at the switching nodes, resulting in a promising approach for designing future optical metro networks.
Antibacterial and Biofilm Modulating Potential of Ferulic Acid Grafted Chitosan against Human Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Dasagrandhi Chakradhar , Park Seulki , Jung Won-Kyo , Kim Young-Mog
Published: July 2018

Emergence of more virulent forms of human pathogenic bacteria with multi drug resistance is a serious global issue and requires alternative control strategies. The current study was focused to investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of ferulic acid grafted chitosan (CFA) against Listeria monocytogenes (LM), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), and Staphylococcus aureus (SA). The present result showed that CFA at 64 µg/mL concentration exhibit bactericidal action against LM and SA (>4 log reduction) and bacteriostatic action against PA (<2 log CFU) within 24 h of incubation. Further studies based on propidium iodide uptake assay, measurement of material released from the cell, and electron microscopic analysis revealed that the bactericidal action of CFA was due to the altered membrane integrity and permeability. CFA dose-dependently inhibited biofilm formation (52-89% range), its metabolic activity (30.8-75.1% range) and eradicated mature biofilms, and reduced viability (71-82% range) of the test bacteria. Also, the swarming motility of LM was differentially affected at sub-MIC concentration of CFA. In the present study, the ability of CFA to kill and alter the virulence production in human pathogenic bacteria will insight a new scope for the application of these biomaterials in healthcare to effectively treat bacterial infections.
Neighbourhood Environment Features and Active Commuting in Chennai, India
Authors: Adlakha Deepti , Hipp J. Aaron , Sallis James F. , Brownson Ross C.
Published: July 2018

Background: Few studies have assessed built environment correlates of active commuting in low-and-middle-income countries, but the different context could yield distinct findings. This cross-sectional study investigated associations between home neighbourhood environment characteristics and active commuting in Chennai, India. Methods: Adults (N = 370, 47.2% female, mean age = 37.9 years) were recruited from 155 wards in the metropolitan area of Chennai in southern India between January and June 2015. Participants self-reported their usual mode of commute to work, with responses recoded into three categories: (1) multi-modal or active commuting (walking and bicycling); (2) public transit; and (3) private transport. Environmental attributes around participants’ homes were assessed using the Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale-India (NEWS-India). Associations between environmental characteristics and likelihood of active commuting and public transit use were modelled using logistic regression with private transport (driving alone or carpool) as the reference category, adjusting for age, gender, and household car ownership. Results: Consistent with other international studies, participants living in neighbourhoods with a mix of land-uses and a transit stop within a 10-minute walk from home were more likely to use active commuting (both p < 0.01). Land-use mix was significantly associated with the use of public transit compared to private transport (aOR = 5.2, p = 0.002). Contrary to findings in high-income countries, the odds of active commuting were reduced with improved safety from crime (aOR = 0.2, p = 0.003), aesthetics (aOR = 0.2, p = 0.05) and street connectivity (aOR = 0.2, p = 0.003). Conclusions: Different environmental attributes were associated with active commuting, suggesting that these relationships are complex and may distinctly differ from those in high-income countries. Unexpected inverse associations of perceived safety from crime and aesthetics with active commuting emphasize the need for high quality epidemiologic studies with greater context-specificity in the study of physical activity in LMICs. Findings have public health implications for India and suggest that caution should be taken when translating evidence across countries.
Long Period Grating-Based Fiber Coupling to WGM Microresonators for Sensing Applications
Authors: Chiavaioli Francesco , Laneve Dario , Farnesi Daniele , Falconi Mario Christian , Nunzi Conti Gualtiero , Baldini Francesco , Prudenzano Francesco
Published: July 2018

A comprehensive model for designing robust all-in-fiber microresonator-based optical sensing setups is illustrated. The investigated all-in-fiber setups allow light to selectively excite high-Q whispering gallery modes (WGMs) into optical microresonators, thanks to a pair of identical long period gratings (LPGs) written in the same optical fiber. Microspheres and microbubbles are used as microresonators and evanescently side-coupled to a thick fiber taper, with a waist diameter of about 18 µm, in-between the two LPGs. The model is validated by comparing the simulated results with the experimental data. A good agreement between the simulated and experimental results is obtained. As an application example, the sensing of the concentration of an aqueous glycerol solution is demonstrated. The model is general and by exploiting the refractive index and/or absorption characteristics at suitable wavelengths, the sensing of other substances or pollutants can be also predicted.
The Vestigial Esterase Domain of Haemagglutinin of H5N1 Avian Influenza A Virus: Antigenicity and Contribution to Viral Pathogenesis
Authors: Zheng Zhiqiang , Paul Subha Sankar , Mo Xiaobing , Yuan Yu-Ren Adam , Tan Yee-Joo
Published: July 2018

Initial attempts to develop monoclonal antibodies as therapeutics to resolve influenza infections focused mainly on searching for antibodies with the potential to neutralise the virus in vitro with classical haemagglutination inhibition and micro-neutralisation assays. This led to the identification of many antibodies that bind to the head domain of haemagglutinin (HA) which generally have potent neutralisation capabilities that block viral entry or viral membrane fusion. However, this class of antibodies has a narrow breadth of protection in that they are usually strain specific. This led to the emphasis on stalk targeting antibodies which are able to bind a broad range of viral targets that span across different influenza subtypes. Recently, a third class of antibodies targeting the vestigial esterase (VE) domain have been characterised. In this review, we describe the key features of neutralising VE targeting antibodies and compare them with head and stalk class antibodies.
Membrane Active Peptides and Their Biophysical Characterization
Authors: Avci Fatma Gizem , Sariyar Akbulut Berna , Ozkirimli Elif
Published: July 2018

In the last 20 years, an increasing number of studies have been reported on membrane active peptides, which exert their biological activity by interacting with the cell membrane either to disrupt it and lead to cell lysis or to translocate through it to deliver cargos into the cell and reach their target. These peptides are attractive alternatives to currently used pharmaceuticals. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and peptides designed for drug and gene delivery currently in the drug pipeline suggest that these membrane active peptides will soon constitute a significant percentage of the drug market. Here, we focus on two most prominent classes of membrane active peptides; AMPs and cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). AMPs are a group of membrane active peptides that disrupt the membrane integrity or inhibit the cellular functions of bacteria, virus and fungi. CPPs are another group of membrane active peptides that mainly function as cargo-carriers even though they may also show antimicrobial activity to some extent. Biophysical techniques to understand how they interact with the membrane have shed light on the peptide–membrane interaction at various levels of detail. Structural investigation of membrane active peptides in the presence of the membrane provides important clues on the effect of the membrane environment on peptide conformations. Advances in live imaging techniques have allowed examination of peptide action at a single cell or single molecule level. In addition to these experimental biophysical techniques, molecular dynamics simulations provided clues on the peptide-lipid interactions and dynamics of the cell entry process at atomic detail. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in experimental and computational investigation of membrane active peptides with particular emphasis on two amphipathic membrane active peptides, the AMP melittin and the CPP pVEC.
Scalable Clustering of Individual Electrical Curves for Profiling and Bottom-up Forecasting
Authors: Auder Benjamin , Cugliari Jairo , Goude Yannig , Poggi Jean-Michel
Published: July 2018

Smart grids require flexible data driven forecasting methods. We propose clustering tools for bottom-up short-term load forecasting. We focus on individual consumption data analysis which plays a major role for energy management and electricity load forecasting. The two first sections are dedicated to the industrial context and a review of individual electrical data analysis. We are interested in hierarchical time-series for bottom-up forecasting. The idea is to disaggregate the signal in such a way that the sum of disaggregated forecasts improves the direct prediction. The 3-steps strategy defines numerous super-consumers by curve clustering, builds a hierarchy of partitions and selects the best one minimizing a forecast criterion. Using a nonparametric model to handle forecasting, and wavelets to define various notions of similarity between load curves, this disaggregation strategy applied to French individual consumers leads to a gain of 16\% in forecast accuracy. We then explore the upscaling capacity of this strategy facing massive data and implement proposals using R, the free software environment for statistical computing. The proposed solutions to make the algorithm scalable combines data storage, parallel computing and double clustering step to define the super-consumers.
Affecting Wingtip Vortex Using Wing Surface Contours
Authors: Gunasekaran Sidaard , Thomas Nathan
Published: July 2018

The aerodynamic efficiency of a NACA 0012 AR 4 wing was affected through periodic contours aligned in the flow direction resembling a “wrinkled” texture. Streamwise and cross-stream Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) were conducted at the University of Dayton Low Speed Wind Tunnel (UD-LSWT) around Reynolds number of 135,000 on the NACA 0012 AR 4 wing with and without surface contours. Wings with 6 contour sections was designed by spline fitting two NACA 0012 airfoil profiles in the spanwise direction. Both 2D (wall-to-wall model) configuration and 3D configuration of the wings were tested to determine the effects of surface contours on the parasite and induced drag of the wing. Streamwise PIV results indicated an increase in momentum deficit in the wake of the mid-contour region due to enhanced boundary layer separation from the upper surface of the mid-contour region. The cross-stream PIV results indicated a decrease in the magnitude of azimuthal velocity, circulation and RMS quantities in the wingtip vortex with the surface contours. The reduction in the wingtip vortex properties indicates that the contours were effective in blocking the spanwise flow feeding into the wingtip vortex on the surface of the wing
Food Reward and Distance Influence the Foraging Pattern of Stingless Bee, Heterotrigona itama
Authors: Basari Norasmah , Ramli Sarah Najiah , Mohd Khairi Nur 'Aina Syakirah
Published: July 2018

Stingless bee beekeeping provides new opportunities to improve the incomes of many households in Malaysia through the sale of honey and other bee products. While Heterotrigona itama is one of the most commonly cultured species of stingless bees, its behavior is not very well understood. Hence, we conducted this study to investigate the behavior of H. itama in exploiting food sources by ascertaining the nectar sugar concentration preferred by the bee. We also aimed to determine the preferred distance of food source from the bee hive. Our results suggest that H. itama prefers high sugar concentrations of 35% and above, and they would fly up to 7 m from the hive to collect food. We discuss how nectar concentration and food distance influence the number of bees exploiting food sources and the overall foraging pattern of H. itama.
Does Intellectual Property Protection Bring Advantage to Innovators And Consumers? Perceptions of Kenyan Small Agro-Food Processors
Authors: Omillo Dr. Sc. Francis Okumo , Okubo LL.M. Yufunalis
Published: July 2018

Enriching understanding of the complex relationship between intellectual property protection and local perceptions on how it benefits innovator and consumer in food value chain is an important policy effort towards food security and economic development of an agricultural society. This paper concerns intellectual property of small entrepreneurs as an intangible human capital that would spurs their ingenuity and innovation in processing foods to feed the exponentially growing population. The study sampled opinions of 132 micro and small agro-food processors in Kenya on intellectual property and its effect on developing advantageous products for them and consumers. Patent and trade secret were used as predictors of advantageous products. The two variables were modeled using linear regression techniques to find their effects on food products that would end starvation and generate enough income for the innovators (advantageous products). The study found out that the contribution of trade secrets was positive and patenting inverse to both the innovator and customer at marketplace. In the opinion of agro-food processors, intellectual property protection did not significantly influence the advantage of food products to the innovator and the end user. This implies that, small scale agro-food processors have not fully appreciated the importance of intellectual property rights. Therefore the study suggests the food processors are sensitized and current intellectual property legal framework be enhanced to promote innovation among the micro and small entrepreneurs. Borrowing from United States and China, the administration of intellectual property protection should be a one-stop-shop for policy development and enforce laws and all other intellectual proprietary matters. Interested further studies could be done on trade mark, copyrights and plant patents.
The Importance of Globalization in the Economic Integration of the Countries in the Region: The Case of Kosovo
Authors: Kuqi Dr. Sc. Bekë , Hasanaj Dr. Sc. Petrit
Published: July 2018

Globalization represents an unavoidable phenomenon in the history of mankind, which is making the world smaller and smaller by increasing the exchange of goods, services, information, knowledge and cultures between different countries. Globalization is a process that has changed a lot in our everyday lives. This multidimensional and contradictory process brings to life the hopes and achievements that life can bring to it. The rush for greater competition is one of the main objectives of globalization. Such a thing can only be reached with market liberalization, economic integration and technology development. It is important for us to benefit from globalization. Therefore, during this paper we will discuss the importance of globalization for the integration and development of countries in the US and as a case study for Kosovo. Globalization is an unstoppable process for Kosovo, and a hope for integration and development that will impact on economic development and integration into the European Union. Following the Declaration of Independence of Kosovo on 17 February 2008 and the entry into force of the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo on 15 June 2008, the same objectives, more than before, were introduced in Kosovo. Like other transition countries, Kosovo also declared membership in the EU not only objective of foreign policy, but also a strategic social and state goal. The definition of this decision puts Kosovo at the forefront of the transition, reform and harmonization process with EU criteria.
Longitudinal online survey in well-being research: first experiences from CRO-WELL project
Authors: Lučić MSc. Lana , Brkljačić Dr. Sc. Tihana , Lipovčan Dr. Sc. Ljiljana Kaliterna
Published: July 2018

The aim of this report was to analyse positive and negative aspects of online administration of longitudinal well-being survey and to provide suggestions and guidelines for future research. The aim of CRO-WELL (Croatian Longitudinal Well-being Study) research was to follow well-being indicators longitudinally, on a large sample (N>5 000).For the purpose of the research we developed online platform with integrated questionnaire to assess various variables related to well-being. Participants could assess the application via various browsers, and it was also adjusted for smart phones.  “Friendly use” of the online application, understanding of questions and answering method, as well as ethical concerns, was tested using focus groups and individual trials. To enable matching the participants from two waves, every participant had to log in to the web page using his/her e-mail address. While e-mail address was protected by data-base, special computer-programme created token associated with each participant. A year after completing the initial questionnaire, participants were automatically invited to complete the follow-up. This paper brings review of designing and conducting a longitudinal research having in mind advantages and disadvantages of online survey.
European Politics and Diplomacy before the World War One 1908 – 1914
Authors: Shala MA. Mirlind
Published: July 2018

Following the failure of the alliance with Germany, Great Britain was dissatisfied. The British politics having a long experience in international affairs; as the most experienced country in politics, reported and accounted that the further strengthening of Germany and consequently of the Central Europe was to the detriment of British interests. For this very reason it showed signs of getting close to France and Russia in 1904. While in the world it started to get close to Japan. As though unnoticed, to the rest part of the world, not to Great Britain, an international alliance was being formed in order to neutralize the Central Block. In this paper I tried to offer and present a scientific argument and by using the advanced, research and comparison methods as well as the deductive method, to divide the article into chronological, historical and research manner.