bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TATHAWUR TA'LIM AL-LUGHAH AL-'ARABIYAH FI MA'HAD DARUL QUR'AN AL-ANWARIYAH BI MALUKU AL-WUSTHA
Authors: Latuconsina Sarah N
Published: September 2017

The teaching of Arabic at the Dar Al-Qur'an Al-Anwar Institute has been began at the Holy Quran Education Center in Tulio, Central Maluku since 1963, until it moved to the Institute of the Anwar Al-Quran in 2001 until now. There is an absolute evolution in the teaching of the Arabic language from time to time. There is an evolution in the teaching of the Arabic language from the first structure of the garden teaching the Quran, "Nur Latif" Tulio to the Institute House Anoran Quran scale or criteria calendar program CIPP model. However, there was no development in the teaching of Arabic in terms of the method, although the method used to teach the Arabic language from the first structure of the garden teaching the Quran, "gentle light" so far, because the students did not learn the old book.
PENGARUH HYPNOBIRTHING TERHADAP INTENSITAS NYERI PADA PERSALINAN KALA I FASE AKTIF DI BPM ISTRI UTAMI DAN TUTIK PURWANI KABUPATEN SLEMAN
Authors: Fathony Zaiyidah
Published: September 2017

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh hypnobirthing terhadap intensitas nyeri pada persalinan kala I fase aktif. Jenis penelitian ini eksperimen  dengan rancangan Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT). Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh ibu hamil yang memeriksakan diri ke BPM Istri Utami  dan BPM Tutik Purwani Kabupaten Sleman dengan teknik pengambilan sampel secara random dengan 22 sampel pada masing-masing kelompok perlakuan dan kontrol. Analisis data menggunakan chi square. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian yang diperoleh, rerata skor nyeri antara  kelompok perlakuan dan kelompok  kontrol terdapat perbedaan (p= 0,025). Hasil analisis multivariat model II didapatkan nilai OR dari variabel hypnobirthing adalah 4,50 yang berarti ibu yang tidak diberikan hypnobirthing berpeluang 4,50 kali untuk mengalami nyeri persalinan berat dibandingkan ibu bersalin yang diberikan perlakuan hypnobirthing. Hypnobirthing  yang dilakukan sejak kehamilan trimester III (usia kehamilan 32 minggu) yang diberikan sebanyak 3 kali dalam 3 minggu berpengaruh terhadap intensitas nyeri saat persalinan kala I fase aktif.
Archival Art and Open Wounds: From Hofmannsthal to Installation Art
Authors: Doran Sabine
Published: September 2017

This article explores the “archival impulse” (Hal Foster) in the work of Hugo von Hofmannsthal and several installation artists. Revisiting Hofmannsthal’s dramatizations of archival landscapes in his fictive travel report Augenblicke in Griechenland, I show how topographies of wounds introduce an aesthetics and ethics of participation. The article also explores striking parallels between topographies of wounds and contemporary archival art, in particular Thomas Hirschhorns’s video installation Touching Reality (2004), and Saskia Boddeke’s and Peter Greenaway’s exhibition installation Obedience (2015, Jewish Museum Berlin). These topographies expose the potential of archival art to engage with memory as a form of inscription, that is, with the archival impulse as an act of (re)inscribing inscriptions in an event of wounding.
The Effect of pH on the Properties of a Cationic Bitumen Emulsifier
Authors: Cui Dongxia , Pang Jinyu
Published: September 2017

Surfactants used in road surface treatments have an optimal application pH value which is an important condition for applications, otherwise stable bitumen emulsions with high solid contents are impossible to achieve. Therefore, a wide range of pH values were employed to investigate its effect on the bitumen/water interfacial properties of a cationic bitumen emulsifier. It is shown that interfacial tension and dilatational modulus have correlations with pH value. The lowest value of interfacial tension declined with the decrease of pH value. The strong acid system has the highest dilatational modulus while this modulus of the neutral system is the lowest. Compared with the neutral system, the maximum of the dilatational modulus also appears in the acid or alkaline system at a relatively low concentration. Physical properties of bitumen emulsions, including storage stability and Zeta potential, show the same changing rule as the interfacial rheology.
Using Embodied Videos of Walking Interviews in Walkability Assessment
Authors: Battista Geoffrey A. , Manaugh Kevin
Published: September 2017

The relationship between the built environment and pedestrian travel behavior has inspired many geospatial-based and audit-based indexes for assessing the extent to which an environment is walkable. However, recent research suggests that their accuracy in predicting travel behavior varies depending on the characteristics of the populations being studied—a limitation especially pertinent for those who walk because they lack viable transportation alternatives. Examining the broader scope of walking determinants and mediators from the pedestrian perspective can take into account the mismatch between travel behavior and embodied experience. Social geography provides theoretical avenues for co-analyzing environmental and personal characteristics, while methodological and technological innovations provide ways of placing these theories into practice. A walking interview procedure supported by embodied video recording technology and sedentary interviews was designed to assess the walking environment according to residents’ unique perspectives of their neighborhoods. The walking interview allows for real-time engagement with pedestrians as they experience the environment, while video recording of these engagements offers sensory data that the researcher may use to interpret pedestrian statements and to draw retrospective conclusions. Aided by preceding sedentary interviews, the walking interview also illuminates how a pedestrian’s personal characteristics influence his or her perception of the built and social environment. It was concluded that, as designed, the procedure is well suited to support conventional walkability assessment tools by revealing how pedestrians’ characteristics and recollections shape their engagement with the built environment.
Shadow Soldiering
Authors: Mynster Christensen Maya
Published: September 2017

Contemporary warfare depends on private security contractors from countries in the Global South. In Sierra Leone, this dependency has produced emerging markets for private military and security companies (PMSCs) seeking to recruit cheap, military-experienced labor. This article explores how demobilized militia and soldiers in Sierra Leone negotiate categorical divides to make themselves employable for private security contracting in Iraq. Based on 19 months of fieldwork tracing militia soldiers as they move between shift ing security constellations, the article introduces the notion of “shadow soldiering” to explain the entanglements of public-private spheres and the blurring of boundaries between the visible and invisible that characterize these constellations. While scholarly work on PMSCs has increasingly highlighted the public-private interconnectedness, the article contributes an ethnographically informed perspective on how security contractors on the ground interpret such entanglements and how global security dynamics intersects with the local, everyday practices and processes that facilitate the supply of contractors.
Space of Hope for Lebanon’s Missing
Authors: Van Ommering Erik , Soussi Reem el
Published: September 2017

This article explores how a digital memorial for forcibly disappeared persons contributes to transitional justice in Lebanon. It presents the joint establishment of an interactive digital memorial by a collective of nongovernmental organizations, relatives of missing persons, and youth volunteers. The case study is situated in debates on transitional justice, calls for democratization of collective memories and archives, and discussions on new information and communication technologies. The article demonstrates how the development and launch of Fushat Amal (Space for Hope) is shaped and confined by postwar sociopolitical realities that are all but favorable to memorialization or justice-seeking initiatives. It highlights how digitalized memories can open up spaces that remain closed in the offline world, enabling survivors to share their stories, build collectives, demand recognition, and advocate for justice. At the same time, the authors discuss the limitations of digital memorials in relation to questions of access, ownership, and sustainability.
Sex-Dependent Associations of Serum Uric Acid with Brain Function During Aging
Authors: Kueider Alexandra M. , An Yang , Tanaka Toshiko , Kitner-Triolo Melissa H. , Studenski Stephanie , Ferrucci Luigi , Thambisetty Madhav
Published: September 2017

Serum uric acid (SUA) is an abundant natural antioxidant capable of reducing cellular oxidation, a major cause of neurodegenerative disease. In line with this, SUA levels are lower in Alzheimer’s disease; however, the association between SUA and cognition remains unclear. Results from studies examining the effects of SUA on cognition may be difficult to interpret in the context of normal versus pathological aging. This study examined sex-specific associations of baseline SUA with cognition during aging. Data from dementia-free participants initially aged 26–99 ( N = 1,451) recruited for the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA), were used in the current analyses. SUA was assessed using blood samples collected during research visits. Cognition was measured using five composite scores (verbal memory, attention, executive function, language, and visuospatial ability). At the first study visit, compared with women, men were older, more likely to be White, had more years of education, higher baseline SUA levels, and higher cardiovascular risk scores. Higher baseline SUA was associated with attenuated declines in attention (β= 0.006; p = 0.03) and visuospatial abilities (β= 0.007; p = 0.01) in men. There was a trend to suggest higher baseline SUA in men was associated with attenuated declines in language, but this finding did not reach statistical significance ( p = 0.09). There were no significant findings with SUA and cognition in women. In this sample of cognitively healthy, community-dwelling adults, we found that higher SUA levels at baseline were associated with attenuated declines in attention and visuospatial abilities in men. SUA was not associated with cognition or change in cognition over time in women.
Memantine for Alzheimer’s Disease: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Kishi Taro , Matsunaga Shinji , Oya Kazuto , Nomura Ikuo , Ikuta Toshikazu , Iwata Nakao
Published: September 2017

Background:

The clinical benefit of memantine for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains inconclusive.

Objective:

We performed an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy/safety of memantine in AD.

Methods:

We included randomized trials of memantine for AD patients. Cognitive function scores (CF), behavioral disturbances scores (BD), and all-cause discontinuation were used as primary measures. Effect size based on a random-effects model was evaluated in the meta-analyses.

Results:

Thirty studies ( n = 7,567; memantine versus placebo: N = 11, n = 3,298; memantine + cholinesterase inhibitors (M+ChEIs) versus ChEIs: N = 17, n = 4,175) were identified. Memantine showed a significant improvement in CF [standardized mean difference (SMD) = –0.24, 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) = –0.34, –0.15, p < 0.00001, I2 = 35% ] and BD (SMD = –0.16, 95% CIs = –0.29, –0.04, p = 0.01, I2 = 52%) compared with placebo. In the sensitivity analysis including only patients with moderate–severe AD, memantine was superior to the placebo in reducing BD without considerable heterogeneity (SMD = –0.20, 95% CIs = –0.34, –0.07, p = 0.003, I2 = 36%). Compared with ChEIs, M+ChEIs showed a greater reduction in BD (SMD = –0.20, 95% CIs = –0.36, –0.03, p = 0.02, I2 = 77%) and a trend of CF improvement (SMD = –0.11, 95% CIs = –0.22, 0.01, p = 0.06, I2 = 56%). However, in the sensitivity analysis of double-blind, placebo-controlled studies only, M+ChEIs showed a significant reduction in BD compared with ChEIs without considerable heterogeneity (SMD = –0.11, 95% CIs = –0.21, –0.01, p = 0.04, I2 = 40%). When performing the sensitivity analysis of donepezil studies only, M+ChEIs was superior to ChEIs in improving CF without considerable heterogeneity (SMD = –0.18, 95% CIs = –0.31, –0.05, p = 0.006, I2 = 49%). No differences were detected in all-cause discontinuation between the groups.

Conclusions:

The meta-analyses suggest the credible efficacy and safety of memantine in treating AD when used alone or in combination with ChEIs.
Genetic Divergence among Inbred Lines of Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch Ex Poir)
Authors: Ahmed B. , Masud M. A. T. , Zakaria M. , Hossain M. M. , Mian M. A. K.
Published: September 2017

Genetic divergence among nineteen inbred lines of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch Ex Poir) was estimated through principal component analysis and Mohalanobiss D2 analysis. Inbred lines were grouped into five clusters. Cluster I, II, III, IV and V were composed of five, three, four, six and one inbred lines respectively. Maximum inter cluster distance was observed between the cluster III and V (72.69) followed by the cluster I and V (63.33). Minimum inter cluster distance was observed between cluster II and IV (10.64). The mean value of cluster III indicated the importance of days to first male and female flower open, node order to 1st female flower open and TSS.  Cluster IV showed the importance of days to first female flower open, fruit diameter, cavity diameter, flesh thickness and average fruit weight. Similarly, cluster V indicated the importance of yield per plant, fruits per plant and fruit length. Days to first male and female flower open, fruit length and cavity length had the highest contribution towards divergence among the inbred lines. Considering the magnitude of cluster distance, cluster means for different characters and contribution of characters towards divergence, the inbred lines from clusters I, III and IV could be selected as parent for hybridization program.
Prescribing Pattern of NSAIDs in Orthopedic Department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital
Authors: Rahman Kazi Afzalur , Kamal AHM Mostafa , Akhter Sanjida , Khatun Khadeza , Afroz Rumana , Akther Tahmina
Published: September 2017

Context : Drug therapy is the most commonly used method in disease treatment in general practice. The pattern of drug prescription are often inappropriate and need for registration of these patterns is essentian in an effort to improve prescribing standard. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a drug class that groups together drugs that provide analgesic (pain-killing) and antipyretic (fever-reliefing) effects, and, in higher doses, anti-inflammatory effects. Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs are the most common drugs prescribed in the world over specially in the orthopedic department. The study of prescribing pattern of NSAIDs in the orthopedic department was conducted to monitor, evaluate and if necessary suggest modification in the prescribing behavior of the medical practitioner to make it rational and cost effective.Material and Methods: The present study was performed on 300 (Three hundred) prescriptions from both admitted and outpatients (OPD) of the orthopedic department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka. The check list type of data was collected with prior permission from the concern department and the authority. The study was cross sectional analytical type and was conducted in the department of Pharmacology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, from July 2010 to June 2011.Result : In case of OPD patients most common NSAIDs prescribed to the patients were aceclofenac (44.7%); followed by diclofenac (23.3%). Other NSAIDs were naproxen, ketorolac and ibuprofen 8%, 15.3% and 5.4% respectively. In case of admitted patients most common NSAIDs prescribed to the patients were ketorolac (54.7%) followed by diclofenac (24.0%).Conclusion: Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs were the main prescription drug for both indoor and outdoor patients in the orthopedic department. Aceclofenac in outdoor and ketorolac in indoor were the most common NSAIDs drug used.J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 25, No.1, April, 2016, Page 58-60
LiDARgrammetry: A New Method for Generating Synthetic Stereoscopic Products from Digital Elevation Models
Authors: Rodríguez-Cielos Ricardo , Galán-García José , Padilla-Domínguez Yolanda , Rodríguez-Cielos Pedro , Bello-Patricio Ana , López-Medina José
Published: September 2017

There are currently several new technologies being used to generate digital elevation models that do not use photogrammetric techniques. For example, LiDAR (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) and RADAR (RAdio Detection And Ranging) can generate 3D points and reflectivity information of the surface without using a photogrammetric approach. In the case of LiDAR, the intensity level indicates the amount of energy that the object reflects after a laser pulse is transmitted. This energy mainly depends on the material and the wavelength used by LiDAR. This intensity level can be used to generate a synthetic image colored by this attribute (intensity level), which can be viewed as a RGB (red, green and blue) picture. This work presents the outline of an innovative method, designed by the authors, to generate synthetic pictures from point clouds to use in classical photogrammetric software (digital restitution or stereoscopic vision). This is conducted using available additional information (for example, the intensity level of LiDAR). This allows mapping operators to view the LiDAR as if it were stereo-imagery, so they can manually digitize points, 3D lines, break lines, polygons and so on.
Structure and Capacitance of Electrical Double Layers at the Graphene–Ionic Liquid Interface
Authors: Lu Pengfei , Dai Qiaobo , Wu Liangyu , Liu Xiangdong
Published: September 2017

Molecular dynamics simulations are carried out to investigate the structure and capacitance of the electrical double layers (EDLs) at the interface of vertically oriented graphene and ionic liquids [EMIM]+/[BF4]−. The distribution and migration of the ions in the EDL on the rough and non-rough electrode surfaces with different charge densities are compared and analyzed, and the effect of the electrode surface morphology on the capacitance of the EDL is clarified. The results suggest that alternate distributions of anions and cations in several consecutive layers are formed in the EDL on the electrode surface. When the electrode is charged, the layers of [BF4]− anions experience more significant migration than those of [EMIM]+ cations. These ion layers can be extended deeper into the bulk electrolyte solution by the stronger interaction of the rough electrode, compared to those on the non-rough electrode surface. The potential energy valley of ions on the neutral electrode surface establishes a potential energy difference to compensate the energy cost of the ion accumulation, and is capable of producing a potential drop across the EDL on the uncharged electrode surface. Due to the greater effective contact area between the ions and electrode, the rough electrode possesses a larger capacitance than the non-rough one. In addition, it is harder for the larger-sized [EMIM]+ cations to accumulate in the narrow grooves on the rough electrode, when compared with the smaller [BF4]−. Consequently, the double-hump-shaped C–V curve (which demonstrates the relationship between differential capacitance and potential drop across the EDL) for the rough electrode is asymmetric, where the capacitance increases more significantly when the electrode is positively charged.
Delayed Activation Kinetics of Th2- and Th17 Cells Compared to Th1 Cells
Authors: Duechting Andrea , Przybyla Anna , Kuerten Stefanie , Lehmann Paul
Published: September 2017

During immune responses, different classes of T cells arise: Th1, Th2, and Th17. Mobilizing the right class plays a critical role in successful host defense and therefore defining the ratios of Th1/Th2/Th17 cells within the antigen-specific T cell repertoire is critical for immune monitoring purposes. Antigen-specific Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells can be detected by challenging peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with antigen, and establishing the numbers of T cells producing the respective lead cytokine, IFN-γ and IL-2 for Th1 cells, IL-4 and IL-5 for Th2, and IL-17 for Th-17 cells, respectively. Traditionally, these cytokines are measured within 6 h in flow cytometry. We show here that 6 h of stimulation is sufficient to detect peptide-induced production of IFN-γ, but 24 h are required to reveal the full frequency of protein antigen-specific Th1 cells. Also the detection of IL-2 producing Th1 cells requires 24 h stimulation cultures. Measurements of IL-4 producing Th2 cells requires 48-h cultures and 96 h are required for frequency measurements of IL-5 and IL-17 secreting T cells. Therefore, accounting for the differential secretion kinetics of these cytokines is critical for the accurate determination of the frequencies and ratios of antigen-specific Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells.
Microstructure and Wear Resistance of AlCoCrFeNiTi High-Entropy Alloy Coatings Produced by HVOF
Authors: Löbel Martin , Lindner Thomas , Mehner Thomas , Lampke Thomas
Published: September 2017

The investigation of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) has revealed many promising properties. HEAs with a high share of Al and Ti are suitable for the formation of lightweight materials. Investigations of the alloy system AlCoCrFeNiTi showed high strength, hardness, ductility, and wear resistance, which makes this special alloy interesting for surface engineering and particularly for thermal spray technology. In this study, the suitability of inert gas-atomised HEA powder for high-velocity-oxygen-fuel (HVOF) thermal spray is investigated. This process allows for high particle velocities and comparatively low process temperatures, resulting in dense coatings with a low oxidation. The microstructure and phase composition of the atomised powder and the HVOF coating were investigated, as well as the wear behaviour under various conditions. A multiphase microstructure was revealed for the powder and coating, whereas a chemically ordered bcc phase occurred as the main phase. The thermal spray process resulted in a slightly changed lattice parameter of the main phase and an additional phase. In comparison with a hard chrome-plated sample, an increase in wear resistance was achieved. Furthermore, no brittle behaviour occurred under abrasive load in the scratch test. The investigation of wear tracks showed only minor cracking and spallation under maximum load.
Dynamics and Stability Results for Hilfer Fractional Type Thermistor Problem
Authors: Vivek D. , Kanagarajan K. , Sivasundaram Seenith
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we study the dynamics and stability of thermistor problem for Hilfer fractional type. Classical fixed point theorems are utilized in deriving the results.
Elimination of Coptotermes lacteus (Froggatt) (Blattodea: Rhinotemitidae) Colonies Using Bistrifluron Bait Applied through In-Ground Bait Stations Surrounding Mounds
Authors: Webb Garry
Published: September 2017

The efficacy of bistrifluron termite bait was evaluated using in-ground bait stations placed around Coptotermes lacteus mounds in south-eastern Australia during late summer and autumn (late February to late May 2012). Four in-ground bait stations containing timber billets were placed around each of twenty mounds. Once sufficient numbers of in-ground stations were infested by termites, mounds were assigned to one of four groups (one, two, three or four 120 g bait canisters or 120 to 480 g bait in total per mound) and bait canisters installed. One mound, nominally assigned treatment with two canisters ultimately had no termite interception in any of the four in-ground stations and not treated. Eighteen of the remaining 19 colonies were eliminated by 12 weeks after bait placement, irrespective of bait quantity removed (range 43 to 480 g). Measures of colony decline—mound repair capability and internal core temperature—did not accurately reflect the colony decline, as untreated colonies showed a similar pattern of decline in both repair capability and internal mound core temperature. However, during the ensuing spring–summer period, capacity to repair the mound was restored in untreated colonies and the internal core temperature profile was similar to the previous spring–summer period which indicated that these untreated colonies remained healthy.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Microdevices and Microsystems for Cell Manipulation
Authors: Hu Wenqi , Ohta Aaron
Published: September 2017

Microfabricated devices and systems capable of micromanipulation are well-suited for the manipulation of cells.[...]
Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction of Paclitaxel from Taxus x media Using Ionic Liquids as Adjuvants: Optimization of the Process by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Tan Zhijian , Li Qiao , Wang Chaoyun , Zhou Wanlai , Yang Yuanru , Wang Hongying , Yi Yongjian , Li Fenfang
Published: September 2017

(1) Background: Ionic liquids (ILs) are considered “green” solvents and have been widely used in the extraction and separation field in recent years; (2) Methods: In this study, some common ILs and functionalized magnetic ionic liquids (MILs) were used as adjuvants for the solvent extraction of paclitaxel from Taxus x media (T. x media) using methanol solution. The extraction conditions of methanol concentration, IL type and amount, solid–liquid ratio, extraction temperature, and ultrasonic irradiation time were investigated in single factor experiments. Then, three factors of IL amount, solid–liquid ratio, and ultrasonic irradiation time were optimized by response surface methodology (RSM); (3) Results: The MIL [C4MIM]FeCl3Br was screened as the optimal adjuvant. Under the optimization conditions of 1.2% IL amount, 1:10.5 solid–liquid ratio, and 30 min ultrasonic irradiation time, the extraction yield reached 0.224 mg/g; and (4) Conclusions: Compared with the conventional solvent extraction, this ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE) using methanol and MIL as adjuvants can significantly improve the extraction yield, reduce the use of methanol, and shorten the extraction time, which has the potentiality of being used in the extraction of some other important bioactive compounds from natural plant resources.
Ginsenoside Rg3 Prevents Oxidative Stress-Induced Astrocytic Senescence and Ameliorates Senescence Paracrine Effects on Glioblastoma
Authors: Hou Jingang , Kim Sunchang , Sung Changkeun , Choi Chulhee
Published: September 2017

Senescent astrocytes in aging brain express senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and link with increased brain aging and its related diseases. In order to determine whether ginsenosides ameliorate the astrocytic senescence in vitro, human astrocytic CRT cells and primary rat astrocytes were used in the present study. Ginsenosides Rg1, Re, Rb1 and Rg3 (5 μg/mL) could effectively prevent the astrocytic senescence induced by H2O2 exposure. However, these ginsenosides did not reverse the astrocytic senescence. Importantly, senescent astrocytes herein produce SASP. The expression of major components of SASP, IL-6 and IL-8, are greatly increased in senescent astrocytes. Ginsenoside Rg3 (10 μg/mL) effectively suppressed the expressions of IL-6 and IL-8, which is associated with regulations of NF-κB and p38MAPK activation. In addition, after incubation with Rg3, conditioned medium from senescent astrocytic CRT cells significantly decreased the ability to promote the proliferation of astrocytoma U373-MG, U87-MG and U251-MG cells compared with non-treated senescent samples. Similar patterns were confirmed in chemotherapy-induced glioblastoma senescent cells. The present study explored a potential candidate for amelioration of astrocytic senescence and SASP in brain aging, which provided a basis for developing strategies to reduce the dark side of senescence in normal or pathological aging process.
Bioactivity In Vitro of Quercetin Glycoside Obtained in Beauveria bassiana Culture and Its Interaction with Liposome Membranes
Authors: Strugała Paulina , Tronina Tomasz , Huszcza Ewa , Gabrielska Janina
Published: September 2017

Quercetin (Q) was used as substrate for regioselective glycosylation at the C-7 position catalyzed by Beauveria bassiana AM278 strain. As a result the glycoside quercetin 7-O-β-d-(4″-O-methyl)glucopyranoside (Q 7-MeGlu) was formed. The goal of the studies was to determine the anti-oxidative (liposome membrane protection against free radicals IC50Q 7-MeGlu = 5.47 and IC50Q = 4.49 µM) and anti-inflammatory (COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes activity inhibition) properties of Q 7-MeGlu as compared to Q. Every attempt was made to clarify the antioxidant activity of these molecules, which are able to interact with egg phosphatidylcholine liposomes, using a fluorometric method (by applying the probes MC540, TMA-DPH and DPH). The results indicated that Q 7-MeGlu and Q are responsible for increasing the packing order, mainly in the hydrophilic but also in hydrophobic regions of the membrane (Q > Q 7-MeGlu). These observations, confirmed by a 1H-NMR method, are key to understanding their antioxidant activity which is probably caused by the stabilizing effect on the lipid membranes. The results showed that Q 7-MeGlu and Q have ability to quench the human serum albumin (HSA) intrinsic fluorescence through a static quenching mechanism. The results of thermodynamic parameters indicated that the process of formation complexes between studied molecules and HSA was spontaneous and caused through Van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonding.
Synthesis and Antifungal Activity of Novel 3-Caren-5-One Oxime Esters
Authors: Huang Min , Duan Wen-Gui , Lin Gui-Shan , Li Kun , Hu Qiong
Published: September 2017

A series of novel 3-caren-5-one oxime esters were designed and synthesized by multi-step reactions in an attempt to develop potent antifungal agents. Two E-Z stereoisomers of the intermediate 3-caren-5-one oxime were separated by column chromatography for the first time. The structures of all the intermediates and target compounds were confirmed by UV-Vis, FTIR, NMR, ESI-MS, and elemental analysis. The antifungal activity of the target compounds was preliminarily evaluated by the in vitro method against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum, Physalospora piricola, Alternaria solani, Cercospora arachidicola, Gibberella zeae, Rhizoeotnia solani, Bipolaris maydis, and Colleterichum orbicalare at 50 µg/mL. The target compounds exhibited best antifungal activity against P. piricola, in which compounds (Z)-4r (R = β-pyridyl), (Z)-4q (R = α-thienyl), (E)-4f′ (R = p-F Ph), (Z)-4i (R = m-Me Ph), (Z)-4j (R = p-Me Ph), and (Z)-4p (R = α-furyl) had inhibition rates of 97.1%, 87.4%, 87.4%, 85.0%, 81.9%, and 77.7%, respectively, showing better antifungal activity than that of the commercial fungicide chlorothanil. Also, compound (Z)-4r (R = β-pyridyl) displayed remarkable antifungal activity against all the tested fungi, with inhibition rates of 76.7%, 82.7%, 97.1%, 66.3%, 74.7%, 93.9%, 76.7% and 93.3%, respectively, showing better or comparable antifungal activity than that of the commercial fungicide chlorothanil. Besides, the E-Z isomers of the target oxime esters were found to show obvious differences in antifungal activity. These results provide an encouraging framework that could lead to the development of potent novel antifungal agents.
A Micronutrient Fortified Beverage Given at Different Dosing Frequencies Had Limited Impact on Anemia and Micronutrient Status in Filipino Schoolchildren
Authors: Angeles-Agdeppa Imelda , Magsadia Clarita , Aaron Grant , Lloyd Beate , Hilmers David , Bhutta Zulfiqar
Published: September 2017

This study evaluated the effects of a multi-micronutrient fortified juice drink given in different frequencies of consumption on hemoglobin (Hb) concentration of schoolchildren. Hb was measured in 2423 schoolchildren aged 6- to 9-years-old at baseline. All anemic children (n = 246) were randomly allocated into groups: Daily dose (HD: high dose), 5X/week (MD: Moderate Dose), 3X/week (LD: Low Dose) and unfortified (Control). Pre- and post-study measurements of micronutrients were collected from 228 children. At the endpoint, significant Hb increases were observed in all groups, but there was no significant difference between groups. There was a significant reduction in anemia prevalence in all groups from 100% to 36% (Control), 30% (LD), 23% (MD) and 26% (HD). No dose-response effect was observed in Hb in this population. Most likely, this resulted from better than expected micronutrient status and lower than expected severity of anemia and micronutrient deficiencies in this cohort. It is unlikely that the addition of a fortified beverage to school feeding programs in this population would have a positive impact. Whether such an intervention would be cost-effective as a preventative approach needs to be assessed. This study demonstrates the importance of targeting such interventions to appropriate populations.
Dietary Factors Modulate Iron Uptake in Caco-2 Cells from an Iron Ingot Used as a Home Fortificant to Prevent Iron Deficiency
Authors: Rodriguez-Ramiro Ildefonso , Perfecto Antonio , Fairweather-Tait Susan
Published: September 2017

Iron deficiency is a major public health concern and nutritional approaches are required to reduce its prevalence. The aim of this study was to examine the iron bioavailability of a novel home fortificant, the “Lucky Iron Fish™” (LIF) (www.luckyironfish.com/shop, Guelph, Canada) and the impact of dietary factors and a food matrix on iron uptake from LIF in Caco-2 cells. LIF released a substantial quantity of iron (about 1.2 mM) at pH 2 but this iron was only slightly soluble at pH 7 and not taken up by cells. The addition of ascorbic acid (AA) maintained the solubility of iron released from LIF (LIF-iron) at pH 7 and facilitated iron uptake by the cells in a concentration-dependent manner. In vitro digestion of LIF-iron in the presence of peas increased iron uptake 10-fold. However, the addition of tannic acid to the digestion reduced the cellular iron uptake 7.5-fold. Additionally, LIF-iron induced an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), similar to ferrous sulfate, but this effect was counteracted by the addition of AA. Overall, our data illustrate the major influence of dietary factors on iron solubility and bioavailability from LIF, and demonstrate that the addition of AA enhances iron uptake and reduces ROS in the intestinal lumen.
Building a ROS-Based Testbed for Realistic Multi-Robot Simulation: Taking the Exploration as an Example
Authors: Yan Zhi , Fabresse Luc , Laval Jannik , Bouraqadi Noury
Published: September 2017

While the robotics community agrees that the benchmarking is of high importance to objectively compare different solutions, there are only few and limited tools to support it. To address this issue in the context of multi-robot systems, we have defined a benchmarking process based on experimental designs, which aimed at improving the reproducibility of experiments by making explicit all elements of a benchmark such as parameters, measurements and metrics. We have also developed a ROS (Robot Operating System)-based testbed with the goal of making it easy for users to validate, benchmark, and compare different algorithms including coordination strategies. Our testbed uses the MORSE (Modular OpenRobots Simulation Engine) simulator for realistic simulation and a computer cluster for decentralized computation. In this paper, we present our testbed in details with the architecture and infrastructure, the issues encountered in implementing the infrastructure, and the automation of the deployment. We also report a series of experiments on multi-robot exploration, in order to demonstrate the capabilities of our testbed.
Model and Growth Stage Based Variability of the Irrigation Demand of Onion Crops with Predicted Climate Change
Authors: Schmidt Nadine , Zinkernagel Jana
Published: September 2017

Predicted climate change will affect agricultural water resources. Particularly vegetable crops will be concerned due to high water demand and high vulnerability to water scarcity. Present vegetable production already requires irrigation water. To assess future irrigation demand, the impact of climate change needs to be revealed region- and crop-specifically. For robust predictions, a wide range of scenarios has to be simulated using different climate models. The aim of this study is to identify the climate change impact on water availability, precipitation-free periods and irrigation demand of onion crops cultivated in a German model region. Focus is on crop-specific climatic water balance, considering soil characteristics and temperature-driven plant growth. Simulated climate parameters vary between four climate models. However, in all scenarios climate parameters indicate an increasing water demand until 2100. While amount of irrigation water will not increase tremendously, occurrence and duration of dry periods will require efficient irrigation infrastructure and management.
Intergenerational Program for Nursing Home Residents and Adolescents in Korea
Authors: Kim Jaehyeon , Lee Jia
Published: September 2017

Structural changes in the Korean population, such as a growing trend toward nuclear families and urbanization, have given rise to a generational gap between older adults and the younger generation. The current study developed a 6-week intergenerational program to facilitate interactions between nursing home residents and high school students. The effects of the program were examined in 120 participants (60 nursing home residents and 60 high school students) in the southern area of South Korea. The intergenerational program helped nursing home residents rediscover the value of their lives, have positive feelings about their lives, and adapt to circumstances through the sustained positive interactions with the younger generation. Adolescents obtained wisdom from older adults' experiences, understanding of the value of life, and positive perceptions of older adults through in-depth communication. The current findings suggest that the intergenerational program for nursing home residents and adolescents is a valuable nursing intervention in Korea to overcome the generational gap and achieve developmental tasks. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44
(1), 32–41.]
Energy Efficiency Evaluation in a Pulp and Paper Industry in South Africa - A Case Study
Authors: Ilupeju Samuel A.O. , Maverengo Hilton , Inambao Freddie L. , Mutombo Ntumba Marc Alain
Published: September 2017

Power consumption is becoming more expensive by the day. This is not far from the fact that power generation is facing a lot of challenges coupled with increasing demand. Industrial sector power demand shares a significant proportion of this generated power. It is therefore a necessary task to manage well industrial energy use through appropriate energy efficiency methods practice so as to minimise energy losses. In this study energy efficiency opportunities in pulp and paper (P&P) mill are identified and the saving potential is then quantified. An energy flow model with the help of an energy audit are used to quantify energy supply, generation, conversion and end use thereby exposing areas of energy losses of the mill. This analysis will serve as an eye opener to future and current P&P making operations in South Africa, and as a base case for stimulating changes toward more efficient energy utilization in the pulp and paper industry. Quite a reasonable energy losses avenues were identified, audited and options of improvements suggested. The results proved that quite a sensible amount of energy is lost in the P&P case study and a near future look into the opportunities and barriers have been noted.
Fate Decision Between Group 3 Innate Lymphoid and Conventional NK Cell Lineages by Notch Signaling in Human Circulating Hematopoietic Progenitors
Authors: Kyoizumi Seishi , Kubo Yoshiko , Kajimura Junko , Yoshida Kengo , Hayashi Tomonori , Nakachi Kei , Moore Malcolm A. , van den Brink Marcel R. M. , Kusunoki Yoichiro
Published: September 2017

The role of Notch signaling in human innate lymphoid cell (ILC) differentiation is unclear, although IL-7 and IL-15 promote differentiation of natural cytotoxicity receptor (NCR) NKp44+ group 3 ILCs (NCR+ILC3s) and conventional NK (cNK) cells from CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) ex vivo. In this study, we analyzed the functions of Notch in the differentiation of NCR+ILC3s and cNK cells from human HPC subpopulations circulating in peripheral blood by limiting dilution and clonal assays using high-throughput flow cytometry. We demonstrated that Notch signaling in combination with IL-7 induced NCR+ILC3 differentiation, but conversely suppressed IL-15–dependent cNK cell generation in CD45RA+Flt-3−c-Kitlow, a novel innate lymphocyte-committed HPC subpopulation. In contrast, Notch signaling induced CD45RA−Flt-3+c-Kithigh multipotent HPCs to generate CD34+CD7+CD62Lhigh, the earliest thymic progenitor–like cells, which preserved high cNK/T cell potential, but lost NCR+ILC3 potential. These findings implicate the countervailing functions of Notch signaling in the fate decision between NCR+ILC3 and cNK cell lineages at different maturational stages of human HPCs. Inhibition of Notch functions by Abs specific for either the Notch1 or Notch2 negative regulatory region suggested that both Notch1 and Notch2 signals were involved in the fate decision of innate lymphocyte-committed HPCs and in the generation of earliest thymic progenitor–like cells from multipotent HPCs. Furthermore, the synergistic interaction between Notch and IL-7 in NCR+ILC3 commitment was primarily explicable by the induction of IL-7 receptor expression in the innate lymphocyte–committed HPCs by Notch stimulation, suggesting the pivotal role of Notch in the transcriptional control required for human NCR+ILC3 commitment.
Cutting Edge: Genetic Association between IFI16 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms and Resistance to Genital Herpes Correlates with IFI16 Expression Levels and HSV-2–Induced IFN-β Expression
Authors: Eriksson Kristina , Svensson Alexandra , Hait Alon S. , Schlüter Kerstin , Tunbäck Petra , Nordström Inger , Padyukov Leonid , Liljeqvist Jan-Åke , Mogensen Trine H. , Paludan Søren R.
Published: September 2017

IFN-γ–inducible protein 16 (IFI16) is an immunological DNA sensor proposed to act in the cyclic GMP–AMP synthase–stimulator of IFN genes pathway. Because mice do not have a clear ortholog of IFI16, this system is not suitable for genetic studies of IFI16. In this study, we have compared the dependency on IFI16, cyclic GMP–AMP synthase, and stimulator of IFN genes for type I IFN induction by a panel of pathogenic bacteria and DNA viruses. The IFN response induced by HSV-2 was particularly dependent on IFI16. In a cohort of patients with genital herpes and healthy controls, the minor G allele of the IFI16 single nucleotide polymorphism rs2276404 was associated with resistance to infection. Furthermore, the combination of this allele with the C allele of rs1417806 was significantly overrepresented in uninfected individuals. Cells from individuals with the protective GC haplotype expressed higher levels of IFI16 and induced more IFN-β upon HSV-2 infection. These data provide genetic evidence for a role for IFI16 in protection against genital herpes.
Inventory and ethnobotanical assessment of plant species in Lagos State University, Ojo campus, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Adu Abosede A. , Sharaibi Olubunmi J. , Aderinola Olutoyin J.
Published: September 2017

Inventory and ethnobotanical assessment of plant species growing on Lagos State University (LASU) Ojo main campus, Lagos State, Nigeria, were carried out. The aim was to document the vegetation composition and ethnobotanical uses of plants in the study area with a view to developing strategies for their conservation. Plant species with their frequency of occurrence were compiled and their representatives were collected for proper identification. Ethnobotanical assessment was carried out through oral interviews of herbalists, herb sellers and others with experience in traditional medicine. A total of 35 plant species belonging to 25 families were recorded from the survey. Poaceae has the highest number of species; Anacardiaceae, Asteraceae, Asparagaceae, Combretaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Malvaceae and Moraceae were all represented with two species each while the remaining 17 families were represented with one species each. Murraya paniculata recorded the highest frequency of occurrence within the study area with 165 individual plants followed by Ficus benjamina with 134 plants, then Ixora coccinea with 121 plants and Terminalia ivorensis with 103 plants. Anarcardium occidentale, Araucaria heterophylla and Ficus carica recorded the lowest frequency of occurrence with two plants each. The trees were the dominant plant habit (46%) followed by the shrubs (23%), grasses (17%) and herbs (14%). The plant species identified are of significant ethnobotanical uses ranging from food to medicine and ornamental. Effective conservation strategies for these plants include enacting laws against indiscriminate tree cutting, encouraging afforestation, proper maintenance of the parks and gardens and establishment of medicinal plant farms.
Clinical manifestations of nocardiosis: Study of risk factors and outcomes in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Wadhwa Teena , Baveja Usha , Kumar Navin , Govil Deepak , Sengupta Sharmila
Published: September 2017

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the predisposing risk factors, clinical presentations, laboratory parameters, and treatments taken and outcomes in patients of nocardiosis in the span of 5 years in a tertiary care hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The patients whose specimens showed Nocardia like organism in Gram-staining, Kinyoun staining and characteristic colonies in culture were included in the retrospective analysis study. Retrospective analysis of associated risk factors, clinical presentations, and radiological findings was performed.

RESULTS: Of the thirteen patients, 11 (76.9%) had immunosuppressive pathologies including solid organ transplantation, autoimmune disease, use of steroids, and immunosuppressive drugs as important risk factors. Four types of clinical manifestations were observed, pulmonary (46.1%), cutaneous (23.07%), cerebral (15.3%), and bacteremia (15.3%). The most common presentation was pulmonary with steroid therapy as a significant risk factor. Consolidation and pleural effusion were the common radiological findings in these cases. In eight of the nine patients anti-nocrdial drugs were given. Cotrimoxazole as monotherapy was given in four cases (44.44%), cotrimoxazole in combination with meropenem in two cases (22.22%); minocycline and linezolid were given in one case each. The overall mortality was 36.36% and was seen in patients with pulmonary nocardiosis.

CONCLUSIONS: The study indicates that Nocardial infections are re-emerging on account of an increase in numbers of immunocompromised patients due to increased organ transplants, autoimmune diseases, malignancies, and use of immunosuppressive drugs and steroids. The diagnosis is often missed/not suspected and delayed because of the clinical resemblance to many other infections. Nocardial infection should be suspected and assessed particularly in immunocompromised patients not responding to treatment/improving clinically.