bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STUDI PEMBUATAN PIKEL CABAI KERITING UTUH (Capsicum annuum var.glabiusculum)
Authors: Novitasari Rifni
Published: November 2018

Penelitian dengan judul studi pembuatan pikel cabai keriting utuh ini bertujuan untuk mencegah kerusakan cabai keriting dan memperpanjang umur simpannya. Pembuatan pikel dimulai dengan cara sortasi bahan baku yakni cabai merah keriting dengan ukuran sedang, yang kemudian dibuang bagian tangkainya, lalu dicuci bersih dengan menggunakan air mengalir. Kemudian di blanching dengan menggunakan air yang dimasak dan telah mencapai suhu 82oC selama 5 menit, kemudian dimasukkan ke dalam air dingin sesaat lalu ditiriskan dengan tujuan proses pemasakan akibat proses blanching terhenti, sehongga cabai tidak melunak. Selanjutnya dilakukan proses Perendaman dalam larutan CaCl2 0,2% selama 30 menit & ditiriskan dengan tujuan untuk memperkuat tekstur cabai.Kemudian cabai ditiriskan kembali dan dilakukan proses perendaman dalam larutan garam 5% + gula 1% + asam asetat 1,5% + asam sitrat 0,15% + irisan bawang putih 8 gr, yang telah dilarutkan secara merata dengan cara memasaknya selama 2 menit dengan tujuan agar larutan tercampur dengan rata, Perendaman dilakukan selama 7 hari, dan setelah 7 hari dibuang buihnya lalu dilakukan proses pengemasan pikel.Pikel yang dihasilkkan setelah di analisa secara kimia memiliki pH 3,8 dengan kadar vitamin C berkisar 26,4 mg dengan tekstur yang masih kokoh seperti bahan bakunya, warna merah khas cabai yang cerah serta aroma dan rasa khas pikel pada umumnya berdasarkan penilaian objektif.
Perubahan Tingkat Nyeri Pada Pasien Primigravida Inpartu Kala I Dengan Penerapan Slow Stroke Back Massage Berbasis Teori Kenyamanan Kolcaba
Authors: Rahayu Dwi
Published: November 2018

Untuk mengurangi nyeri selama persalinan kala I digunakan manajemen nyeri baik secara farmakologis maupun nonfarmakologis. Dilakukan penelitian untuk membuktikan bahwa Slow Stroke Back Massage dapat mempengaruhi intensitas nyeri pada pasien primigravida inpartu kala I. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimental dengan metode yang digunakan adalah rancangan One Group pretest-Posttest Design. Sample terdiri dari 11 responden yang diambil secara purposive sampling yaitu semua pasien primigravida inpartu kala I fase aktif yang masuk kamar bersalin Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Kabupaten Kediri selama bulan September hingga Oktober 2014. Variabel yang diukur adalah perubahan intensitas nyeri sebelum dan sesudah dilakukan Slow Stroke Back Massage. Dari penelitian didapatkan data bahwa sebagian besar responden (72,8%) mengalami nyeri berat dan sebagian kecil (27,20%) mengalami nyeri sedang selama kala I fase aktif. Setelah dilakukan Slow Stroke Back Massage didapatkan data bahwa sebagian besar responden (72,80%) mengalami nyeri sedang dan sebagian kecil (27,20%) tetap mengalami nyeri berat. Kesimpulan yang didapatkan dari penelitian ini adalah menunjukkan adanya perbedaan intensitas nyeri sebelum dan sesudah perlakuan. Dari uji statistik menggunakan uji t-test ( = 0,05) didapatkan hasil t hitung = 6,5 (t table = 2,228) dengan signifikansi 0,000. Dari hasil ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa Slow Stroke Back Massage mempengaruhi intensitas nyeri pada pasien primigravida inpartu kala I fase aktif. Dari hasil temuan diatas, disarankan agar dalam penelitian selanjutnya digunakan sampel yang lebih besar dengan pengukuran intensitas nyeri pada masing-masing fase dalam kala I fase aktif.; Kata kunci: Nyeri, Primigravida Inpartu, Slow Stroke Back Massage
Investigation of Water Quality and Fish Status of Karimganj Haor Area in Kishoreganj
Authors: Islam MS , Jahan J , Mou MA , Kabir MH , Uddin MJ
Published: November 2018

The study was conducted to investigate the physicochemical parameters and anionic constituents in water of the haor area of Karimganj during the period from October to December 2016. The water samples were collected from 3 different sampling stationsas St-1 (Bailabeel), St-2 (Ummabeel) and St-3 (Alkharabeel) for analyzing the temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solid (TDS), pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), alkalinity, hardness, fluoride (F-), chloride (Cl-), bromide (Br-), nitrite (NO2 -) , nitrate (NO3 -), and sulphate (SO4 2-) in water. The study also assessed the fish status of the Karimganjhaor area. The result of the study showed that the mean temperature (26.2 °C) of water was within the standard limit. The mean EC and TDS contents were 555 μS/cm and 526 mg/l, respectively which was satisfactory level for aquatic organisms. The mean DO (6.7 mg/l) content was favorable but BOD (2.7 mg/l) content indicated some extent of organic waste pollution. The mean pH and alkalinity were 7.30 and 338 mg/l, respectively indicated alkaline condition in haor water, and whereas hardness was 122 mg/l revealed that the water was suitable for fish production. The mean concentration of F-, Cl-, Br-, NO2 - , NO3 -, and SO4 2- were 0.35, 130.3, 0.16, 3.38, 34.84 and 85.60 mg/l, respectively depicted that the water were poorly improvised with these anionic constituents.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 10(2): 19-27 2017
Impacts of Beel Sanctuary Management Project on Fish Production and Socio -Economic Competence: a Study in the HaltiBeelTanki Fish Sanctuary
Authors: Latif MB , Latif MA
Published: November 2018

The research was conducted to find out the impacts of Beel sanctuary management on fish production of the HaltiBeelTanki fish sanctuary and socio-economic competence of adjacent fishermen, Natore, Bangladesh through random sampling with questionnaire survey and secondary data. The main objectives of the research were- to find out the present status of fish production of the Beel and to know the socio-economic condition of the surrounding fishermen. A total of 68 fishermen were selected and interviewed. In the studied Beel the annual fish production was 8.8 MT in 2012 where Beel sanctuary management increased the production up to 15.2 MT in 2013. The average fish production increased 2.6 MT per year. Fish species such as Ayre, Calbaosh, Pabda, Sharputi etc. were absent before the project (before 2012) but at present available at a rate of 20g, 1000g, 300g, and 1200g per day respectively. The study revealed that about 77% of the fishermen preferred nuclear family where only 23% joint family. It was found that about 63% fishermen were illiterate and there was no H.S.C pass fisherman. The average income of the selected fishermen was 8125 taka/month and about 58% fishers were able to save money 501-1000 taka/month after the project.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 10(2): 55-63 2017
Reproductive Performance and Repeatability Estimation of Some Traits of Crossbred Cows in Savar Dairy Farm
Authors: Islam MS , Akhtar A , Hossain MA , Rahman MF , Hossain SS
Published: November 2018

The study was conducted on 244 crossbred cows of CCBS Savar, Dhaka to evaluate the effect of different genetic groups on their lifetime performance of various reproductive traits using twenty years data. Data were accumulated from a prescribed data sheet maintained by Central Cattle Breeding Station, Dhaka. Genetic groups for this experiment were (LF), (LJ), (LH x F), (LF x LF) and (LJ x LJ). The studied parameters were age at puberty, service per conception, post-partum heat period, calving interval, total number of calving in lifetime. ANOVA showed that genetic groups had a significant effect on age at puberty, post-partum heat period, total number of calving in lifetime and calving interval (P<0.05). From result it was found that earliest age at puberty were in L x F (749.27±99.01), service per conception, postpartum heat period was lower in L x F (1.60±0.19 and (145.75±94.44 days respectively). Calving interval was lower in L x J (411.18±136.87 days) and almost similar results were obtained for L x F (432.26±96.26 days). Total number of calving in lifetime were observed higher in (LH x F) with mean of 1468.30±198.58 days.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 10(2): 87-94 2017
Land Tenure and Credit - a Study in Selected Areas of Mymensingh
Authors: Haque Z , Jinan T
Published: November 2018

The present study aims at investigating into the existing land tenure system and its relationship with credit at Trishal Upazila of Mymensingh district. Keeping in view the objectives, 70 samples were randomly selected. The respondents have taken loan from institutional, semi institutional and non-institutional sources of credit for producing crops. The study reveals that the absentee land owner and part operator in the area have got more access to institutional sources of credit because of their ability to offer land as security. Tenants on the other hand were found to have no loan at all from the BKB because of their inability to offer collateral against loan. The tenant farmers however, were found to have access to semi institutional sources like GB and BRAC. The respondents therefore, need not be so dependent at present on money lenders and non-institutional sources of credit because of institutional and semi-institutional network present close to the study area. A lion’s share of loaned money obtained has been productively utilized by the sampled respondents irrespective of tenure categories implying the borrower’s positive attitudes towards productive utilization.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 10(2): 143-150 2017
Waste Management at Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University: Current Status and Future Options
Authors: Khan MNH
Published: November 2018

The present study was conducted to measure waste production and its categories of JKKNIU, and find out its management options. Samplings were done in Student Hall, Teachers’ and officers’ dormitory, and central cafeteria of the University. Waste categories were organic, biodegradable, recyclable, inert materials etc. Major portion of the waste was organic biodegradable, about 65% of total waste. Waste are not being collecting and disposing properly due to unavailability of facilities, and this creating environmental pollution. Landfill, composting, and anaerobic digestion etc. could be use for proper management and to produce bio-gas and bio-fertilizer. Integrated waste management option would be better solution.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 10(2): 171-176 2017
Preliminary Study of the Effects of Sequential Hypoxic Exposures in a Simulated Flight Task
Authors: Robinson F. Eric , Horning Dain , Phillips Jeffrey B.
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Previous studies of acute hypoxia have largely examined different altitudes in isolation. Pilots, however, receive two exposures during in-flight hypoxic emergencies (IFHEs): the initial exposure at altitude, followed by a second mild exposure after descending and
removing the breathing mask. Conventional wisdom holds that performance recovers with blood oxygen saturation and that exposure to mild hypoxia is safe. This study examined the possibility that the effects of moderate hypoxia may linger to overlap with the effects of mild hypoxia during sequential
exposures such as those experienced by pilots during an IFHE.METHODS: Subjects performed a simulated flight task and secondary task while being exposed to normobaric hypoxia via the ROBD-2.RESULTS: Average error on the flight task during exposure to 3048 m (10,000 ft)
was marginally worse when preceded by exposure to 7620 m (25,000 ft; 7.40 ± 3.32) than when experienced in isolation (6.42 ± 3.82). Performance on the secondary task was likewise worse when the mild exposure followed the moderate exposure (0.27 ± 0.30 lapses per minute)
than when the mild exposure occurred by itself (0.19 ± 0.20 lapses per minute). Minimum Spo2 showed a similar pattern of results (84.87 ± 4.37 vs. 86.61 ± 2.47).DISCUSSION: We believe our results are most likely due to a failure to recover
from the original moderate exposure rather than an additive effect between the exposures. Even so, our findings suggest that pilot impairment following an IFHE may be worse than previously believed.Robinson FE, Horning D, Phillips JB. Preliminary study of the effects of sequential
hypoxic exposures in a simulated flight task. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(12):1050–1059.
Dilated Prelaminar Paravascular Spaces as a Possible Mechanism for Optic Disc Edema in Astronauts
Authors: Wostyn Peter , De Winne Frank , Stern Claudia , De Deyn Peter Paul
Published: November 2018

INTRODUCTION: A number of ophthalmic abnormalities, including optic disc edema, have been reported in several astronauts involved in long-duration spaceflights. An increased understanding of factors contributing to this syndrome, initially designated visual impairment and intracranial
pressure syndrome and recently renamed spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, has become a high priority for ESA and NASA, especially in view of future long-duration missions, including trips to Mars. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of this syndrome are still not well understood.
In the present paper, we propose that optic disc edema in astronauts may occur, at least in part, as a result of retention of interstitial fluid in distended paravascular spaces at the prelaminar region of the optic nerve head. Preflight, in-flight, and postflight analysis of the optic nerve
head and surrounding structures by optical coherence tomography in long-duration International Space Station crewmembers could provide important structural information in this respect.Wostyn P, De Winne F, Stern C, De Deyn PP. Dilated prelaminar paravascular spaces as a possible
mechanism for optic disc edema in astronauts. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(12):1089–1091.
Triage and Treatment of Mass Casualty Decompression Sickness After Depressurization at 6400 m
Authors: Mancini Sarah , Crotty Angela M. , Cook Jerald
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND: Decompression sickness is a condition that results from an abrupt change from a higher to a lower pressure. It is described most commonly in divers; however, it can occur in aviation incidents, which this case report will discuss.CASE REPORT: Following
an acute cabin depressurization incident, 36 patients presented to a small outpatient clinic with multiple symptoms, including fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. These patients were evaluated, triaged, and some were able to be successfully treated with supplemental oxygen
in clinic. Eight of the patients had symptoms that were either persistent or concerning enough that they were referred to the dive medical clinic, where the dive medical team diagnosed six of the patients with Type II decompression sickness and referred them for hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy.
All patients who received hyperbaric therapy experienced at least some relief of symptoms, with most reporting some residual fatigue after the therapy.DISCUSSION: This case provided both lessons in triage and management of multiple patients in a small outpatient clinic, as well
as the challenges in making the diagnosis of decompression sickness.Mancini S, Crotty AM, Cook J. Triage and treatment of mass casualty decompression sickness after depressurization at 6400 m. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(12):1085–1088.
Behavioral Health Policy for Human Spaceflight
Authors: Morris Nathaniel P.
Published: November 2018

INTRODUCTION: Government space agencies and commercial spaceflight companies are seeking to expand human space exploration. Spaceflight can place considerable psychological stressors on humans, yet policies to support behavioral health in human spaceflight are still in their
nascent stages. This article reviews international and domestic space policy relevant to behavioral health, as well as existing gaps in policy frameworks regarding the behavioral health of spaceflight crew and passengers. This article highlights behavioral health policy for human spaceflight
as an emerging issue and suggests principles to guide the development of such policy moving forward.Morris NP. Behavioral health policy for human spaceflight. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(12):1068–1075.
Arterial Oxygen Saturation, Pulse Oximetry, and Cerebral and Tissue Oximetry in Hypobaric Hypoxia
Authors: Ottestad William , Kåsin Jan Ivar , Høiseth Lars Øivind
Published: November 2018

INTRODUCTION: Clinical accuracy of pulse oximeters (giving Spo2) is routinely tested down to an Sao2 of 70%, but lower oxygen saturations are often experienced during hypobaric hypoxia. Cerebral (Sco2) and peripheral
tissue (Sto2) oxygen saturations can be measured using near infra-red spectroscopy. In a project simulating oxygen system failure during high altitude-high opening parachuting (HAHO), Sao2, Spo2, Sco2,
and forearm Sto2 were measured. The aim of the present analysis was to explore the agreement between Sao2 and the three noninvasive measurements of hypoxemia (Spo2, Sco2, and Sto2).METHODS:
Healthy volunteers from the Norwegian Special Operations Commando were studied in a hypobaric chamber as supplemental oxygen was removed at 301 hPa ambient pressure (30,000 ft) and recompressed at 25 hPa · min-1 (1000 ft · min-1) to ground level simulating
a HAHO parachute flight. Sao2 was compared with Spo2, Sco2, and Sto2 in scatterplots and Bland-Altman plots, calculating bias and limits of agreement (LOA).RESULTS: The bias ± LOA were:
Sao2 vs. Spo2: −5.8% ± 16, Sao2 vs. Sco2: −3.4% ± 11, and Sao2 vs. Sto2: 17% ± 30. The bias for Sao2 vs.
Spo2 was dependent on the range of values, and correcting for this with a sloped bias line reduced the LOA to ± 8.2%.DISCUSSION: There were wide limits of agreement between Sao2 and Spo2. Sao2
and Sco2 agreed better, whereas Sao2 and forearm Sto2 had wide LOA. The agreement between Sao2 and Spo2 improved when correcting for the underestimation of Spo2
at low values. There is a poor agreement between Spo2 and the gold standard Sao2 during extreme hypobaric hypoxemia.Ottestad W, Kåsin JI, Høiseth LØ. Arterial oxygen saturation, pulse oximetery, and cerebral and tissue
oximetry in hypobaric hypoxia. Aerospace Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(12):1045–1049.
Introduction: The Qur'an in Europe—the European Qur'an
Authors: Loop Jan
Published: November 2018

This introductory article follows one of the most widely read and used Qur'an editions in Christian Europe, Theodor Bibliander's Machumetis Saracenorum principis, eiusque successorum vitae, ac doctrina, ipseque Alcoran, printed in Basel in 1543 and in a second edition in 1550. The article analyses some of the interpretations, appropriations, and polemical uses that this Qur'an version was exposed to during an age of confessional rivalry and political fragmentation. By doing so, the article tries to show the deep entanglement of the Qur'an in European religious and political discourses. It argues that with regard to the transformations that the Qur'an underwent in its transition from the Islamic-Arabic world to the various Latin and vernacular versions in Europe, as well as with regard to the ways that the Qur'an is read, used, and adapted in Christian and Jewish European contexts, we are confronted with a text genre sui generis–—the European Qur'an.
Optimal Design of a High-Speed Single-Phase Flux Reversal Motor for Vacuum Cleaners
Authors: Dmitrievskii Vladimir , Prakht Vladimir , Kazakbaev Vadim , Sarapulov Sergey
Published: November 2018

This paper describes the design of a single-phase high-speed flux reversal motor (FRM) for use in a domestic application (vacuum cleaner). This machine has a simple and reliable rotor structure, which is a significant advantage for high-speed applications. An FRM design in which the inner stator surface is entirely used allows it to decrease its volume and increase its efficiency. The mathematical modeling, based on the finite element method, and the optimal design of the high-speed single-phase FRM are described. The criterion of optimization and the selection of a proper optimization algorithm are discussed. Since the finite element method introduces a small but quasi-random error due to round-off accumulation and choosing the mesh, etc., the Nelder-Mead method, not requiring the derivatives calculation, was chosen for the optimization. The target parameter of the optimization is built for the motor efficiency when operating at different loads. Calculations show that the presented approach provides increasing motor efficiency during the optimization, particularly at underload.
A Review of Seaweed Pre-Treatment Methods for Enhanced Biofuel Production by Anaerobic Digestion or Fermentation
Authors: Maneein Supattra , Milledge John J. , Nielsen Birthe V. , Harvey Patricia J.
Published: November 2018

Macroalgae represent a potential biomass source for the production of bioethanol or biogas. Their use, however, is limited by several factors including, but not restricted to, their continuous supply for processing, and low biofuel yields. This review examines recent pre-treatment processes that have been used to improve the yields of either biogas or bioethanol from macroalgae. Factors that can influence hydrolysis efficiency and, consequently, biofuel yields, are highly affected by macroalgal composition, including content of salts, heavy metals, and polyphenols, structural make-up, as well as polysaccharide composition and relative content of carbohydrates. Other factors that can influence biofuel yield include the method of storage and preservation.
Untangling Cosmic Magnetic Fields: Faraday Tomography at Metre Wavelengths with LOFAR
Authors: O’Sullivan Shane P. , Brüggen Marcus , Van Eck Cameron L. , Hardcastle Martin J. , Haverkorn Marijke , Shimwell Timothy W. , Tasse Cyril , Vacca Valentina , Horellou Cathy , Heald George
Published: November 2018

The technique of Faraday tomography is a key tool for the study of magnetised plasmas in the new era of broadband radio-polarisation observations. In particular, observations at metre wavelengths provide significantly better Faraday depth accuracies compared to traditional centimetre-wavelength observations. However, the effect of Faraday depolarisation makes the polarised signal very challenging to detect at metre wavelengths (MHz frequencies). In this work, Faraday tomography is used to characterise the Faraday rotation properties of polarised sources found in data from the LOFAR Two-Metre Sky Survey (LoTSS). Of the 76 extragalactic polarised sources analysed here, we find that all host a radio-loud AGN (Active Galactic Nucleus). The majority of the sources (∼64%) are large FRII radio galaxies with a median projected linear size of 710 kpc and median radio luminosity at 144 MHz of 4 × 10 26 W Hz − 1 (with ∼13% of all sources having a linear size >1 Mpc). In several cases, both hotspots are detected in polarisation at an angular resolution of ∼20″ . One such case allowed a study of intergalactic magnetic fields on scales of 3.4 Mpc. Other detected source types include an FRI radio galaxy and at least eight blazars. Most sources display simple Faraday spectra, but we highlight one blazar that displays a complex Faraday spectrum, with two close peaks in the Faraday dispersion function.
Gene Variations in Cis-Acting Elements between the Taiwan and Prototype Strains of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Alter Viral Gene Expression
Authors: Tsai Tsung-Lin , Su Chen-Chang , Hsieh Ching-Chi , Lin Chao-Nan , Chang Hui-Wen , Lo Chen-Yu , Lin Ching-Houng , Wu Hung-Yi
Published: November 2018

In 2013, the outbreak of porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) in Taiwan caused serious economic losses. In this study, we examined whether the variations of the cis-acting elements between the porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) Taiwan (TW) strain and the prototype strain CV777 alter gene expression. For this aim, we analyzed the variations of the cis-acting elements in the 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs) between the PEDV TW, CV777, and other reference strains. We also determined the previously unidentified transcription regulatory sequence (TRS), a sequence motif required for coronavirus transcription, and found that a nucleotide deletion in the TW strain, in comparison with CV777 strain, immediately downstream of the leader core sequence alters the identity between the leader TRS and the body TRS. Functional analyses using coronavirus defective interfering (DI) RNA revealed that such variations in cis-acting elements for the TW strain compared with the CV777 strain have an influence on the efficiency of gene expression. The current data show for the first time the evolution of PEDV in terms of cis-acting elements and their effects on gene expression, and thus may contribute to our understanding of recent PED outbreaks worldwide.
Epsc Involved in the Encoding of Exopolysaccharides Produced by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FZB42 Act to Boost the Drought Tolerance of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Lu Xiang , Liu Shao-Fang , Yue Liang , Zhao Xia , Zhang Yu-Bao , Xie Zhong-Kui , Wang Ruo-Yu
Published: November 2018

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FZB42 is a plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria that stimulates plant growth, and enhances resistance to pathogens and tolerance of salt stress. Instead, the mechanistic basis of drought tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana induced by FZB42 remains unexplored. Here, we constructed an exopolysaccharide-deficient mutant epsC and determined the role of epsC in FZB42-induced drought tolerance in A. thaliana. Results showed that FZB42 significantly enhanced growth and drought tolerance of Arabidopsis by increasing the survival rate, fresh and dry shoot weights, primary root length, root dry weight, lateral root number, and total lateral root length. Coordinated changes were also observed in cellular defense responses, including elevated concentrations of proline and activities of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase, decreased concentrations of malondialdehyde, and accumulation of hydrogen peroxide in plants treated with FZB42. The relative expression levels of drought defense-related marker genes, such as RD29A, RD17, ERD1, and LEA14, were also increased in the leaves of FZB42-treated plants. In addition, FZB42 induced the drought tolerance in Arabidopsis by the action of both ethylene and jasmonate, but not abscisic acid. However, plants inoculated with mutant strain epsC were less able to resist drought stress with respect to each of these parameters, indicating that epsC are required for the full benefit of FZB42 inoculation to be gained. Moreover, the mutant strain was less capable of supporting the formation of a biofilm and of colonizing the A. thaliana root. Therefore, epsC is an important factor that allows FZB42 to colonize the roots and induce systemic drought tolerance in Arabidopsis.
Caspase-8: A Novel Target to Overcome Resistance to Chemotherapy in Glioblastoma
Authors: Fianco Giulia , Contadini Claudia , Ferri Alessandra , Cirotti Claudia , Stagni Venturina , Barilà Daniela
Published: November 2018

Caspase-8 was originally identified as a central player of programmed cell death triggered by death receptor stimulation. In that context, its activity is tightly regulated through several mechanisms, with the best established being the expression of FLICE-like inhibitory protein (FLIP) family proteins and the Src-dependent phosphorylation of Caspase-8 on Tyr380. Loss of apoptotic signaling is a hallmark of cancer and indeed Caspase-8 expression is often lost in tumors. This event may account not only for cancer progression but also for cancer resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Intriguingly, other tumors, such as glioblastoma, preferentially retain Caspase-8 expression, and high levels of Caspase-8 expression may correlate with a worse prognosis, suggesting that in this context this protease loses its apoptotic activity and gains additional functions. Using different cellular systems, it has been clearly shown that in cancer Caspase-8 can exhibit non-canonical functions, including promotion of cell adhesion, migration, and DNA repair. Intriguingly, in glioblastoma models, Caspase-8 can promote NF-κB-dependent expression of several cytokines, angiogenesis, and in vitro and in vivo tumorigenesis. Overall, these observations suggest that some cancer cells may hijack Caspase-8 function which in turn promote cancer progression and resistance to therapy. Here we aim to highlight the multiple functions of Caspase-8 and to discuss whether the molecular mechanisms that modulate the balance between those functions may be targeted to dismantle the aberrant activity of Caspase-8 and to restore its canonical apoptotic functionality.
YAP Activation Drives Liver Regeneration after Cholestatic Damage Induced by Rbpj Deletion
Authors: Tharehalli Umesh , Svinarenko Michael , Kraus Johann M. , Kühlwein Silke D. , Szekely Robin , Kiesle Ute , Scheffold Annika , Barth Thomas F.E. , Kleger Alexander , Schirmbeck Reinhold , Kestler Hans A. , Seufferlein Thomas , Oswald Franz , Katz Sarah-Fee , Lechel André
Published: November 2018

Liver cholestasis is a chronic liver disease and a major health problem worldwide. Cholestasis is characterised by a decrease in bile flow due to impaired secretion by hepatocytes or by obstruction of bile flow through intra- or extrahepatic bile ducts. Thereby cholestasis can induce ductal proliferation, hepatocyte injury and liver fibrosis. Notch signalling promotes the formation and maturation of bile duct structures. Here we investigated the liver regeneration process in the context of cholestasis induced by disruption of the Notch signalling pathway. Liver-specific deletion of recombination signal binding protein for immunoglobulin kappa j region (Rbpj), which represents a key regulator of Notch signalling, induces severe cholestasis through impaired intra-hepatic bile duct (IHBD) maturation, severe necrosis and increased lethality. Deregulation of the biliary compartment and cholestasis are associated with the change of several signalling pathways including a Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) gene set representing the Hippo pathway, further yes-associated protein (YAP) activation and upregulation of SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 9 (SOX9), which is associated with transdifferentiation of hepatocytes. SOX9 upregulation in cholestatic liver injury in vitro is independent of Notch signalling. We could comprehensively address that in vivo Rbpj depletion is followed by YAP activation, which influences the transdifferentiation of hepatocytes and thereby contributing to liver regeneration.
An Assessment of Sustainable Airport Water Management: The Case of Osaka’s Kansai International Airport
Authors: Baxter Glenn , Srisaeng Panarat , Wild Graham
Published: November 2018

Airports are an essential infrastructure to facilitate aviation. The substantial growth of aviation has led to a significant increase in water usage by airports. Airports also generate large volumes of wastewater that may include contaminants. Hence, understanding sustainable water management practices is essential in the aviation industry. In this study, an exploratory research design was utilized in the examination of the sustainable water management strategies and systems at Kansai International Airport from 2002 to 2016. The qualitative data were examined using document analysis as part of a case study. The quantitative data were analyzed using regression analysis as part of a longitudinal study. The airport has been able to reduce the total water consumption, water consumption per passenger, and water consumption per aircraft movement, even with increased traffic in recent years. The airport sources water from the municipal authorities and reclaims water for non-potable water uses. The airport conducts regular water quality tests which measure the Chemical oxygen demand, total nitrogen, and total phosphates. The airport’s onsite wastewater processing centre processes all wastewaters, which discharges non-reclaimed water into Osaka Bay. With a decrease in water consumption, there has similarly been a decrease in the need to treat wastewater, while the reclaimed water ratio has increased over the period of the study.
Extensions of Móricz Classes and Convergence of Trigonometric Sine Series in L1-Norm
Authors: Chouhan Sandeep Kaur , Kaur Jatinderdeep , Bhatia Satvinder Singh
Published: November 2018

In this paper, the extensions of classes S ˜ ,   C ˜ and B ˜ V are made by defining the classes S ˜ r , C ˜ r and B ˜ V r , r = 0 , 1 , 2 , … It is also shown that class S ˜ r is a subclass of C ˜ r ∩ B ˜ V r . Moreover, the results on L 1 -convergence of r times differentiated trigonometric sine series have been obtained by considering the r t h   ( r = 0 , 1 , 2 , … ) derivative of modified sine sum under the new extended class C ˜ r ∩ B ˜ V r .
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Epidemiology, Natural History, Phenotypes
Authors: Sauleda Jaume , Núñez Belén , Sala Ernest , Soriano Joan B.
Published: November 2018

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common of the idiopathic interstitial pneumonias. It is characterized by a chronic, progressive, fibrotic interstitial lung disease of unknown cause that occurs primarily in older adults. Its prevalence and incidence have appeared to be increasing over the last decades. Despite its unknown nature, several genetic and environmental factors have been associated with IPF. Moreover, its natural history is variable, but could change depending on the currently suggested phenotypes: rapidly progressive IPF, familial, combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema, pulmonary hypertension, and that associated with connective tissue diseases. Early recognition and accurate staging are likely to improve outcomes and induce a prompt initiation of antifibrotics therapy. Treatment is expected to be more effective in the early stages of the disease, while developments in treatment aim to improve the current median survival of 3–4 years after diagnosis.
Urolithin A Is a Dietary Microbiota-Derived Human Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Antagonist
Authors: Muku Gulsum E. , Murray Iain A. , Espín Juan C. , Perdew Gary H.
Published: November 2018

Urolithins (e.g., UroA and B) are gut microbiota-derived metabolites of the natural polyphenol ellagic acid. Urolithins are associated with various health benefits, including attenuation of inflammatory signaling, anti-cancer effects and repression of lipid accumulation. The molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of urolithins remain unclear. We hypothesize that some of the human health benefits of urolithins are mediated through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Utilizing a cell-based reporter system, we tested urolithins for the capacity to modulate AHR activity. Cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) mRNA levels were assessed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Competitive ligand binding assays were performed to determine whether UroA is a direct ligand for the AHR. Subcellular AHR protein levels were examined utilizing immunoblotting analysis. AHR expression was repressed in Caco-2 cells by siRNA transfection to investigate AHR-dependency. UroA and B were able to antagonize 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)-induced AHR-mediated transcriptional activity. Furthermore, UroA and B attenuated TCDD-mediated stimulation of CYP1A1 mRNA levels. In addition, competitive ligand binding assays characterized UroA as a direct AHR ligand. Consistent with other AHR antagonists, UroA failed to induce AHR retention in the nucleus. AHR is necessary for UroA-mediated attenuation of cytokine-induced interleukin 6 (IL6) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) expression in Caco-2 cells. Here we identified UroA as the first dietary-derived human selective AHR antagonist produced by the gut microbiota through multi-step metabolism. Furthermore, previously reported anti-inflammatory activity of UroA may at least in part be mediated through AHR.
Effect of pH on Zero Valent Iron Performance in Heterogeneous Fenton and Fenton-Like Processes: A Review
Authors: Rezaei Fatemeh , Vione Davide
Published: November 2018

Heterogeneous Fenton processes with solid catalysts have gained much attention for water and wastewater treatment in recent years. In the field of solid catalysts, zero valent iron (ZVI) is among the most applicable due to its stability, activity, pollutant degradation properties and environmental friendliness. The main limitation in the use of ZVI in heterogeneous Fenton systems is due to its deactivation in neutral and alkaline conditions, and Fenton-like processes have been developed to overcome this difficulty. In this review, the effect of solution pH on the ZVI-Fenton performance is discussed. In addition, the pH trend of ZVI efficiency towards contaminants removal is also considered in oxic solutions (i.e., in the presence of dissolved O2 but without H2O2), as well as in magnetic-field assisted Fenton, sono-Fenton, photo-Fenton and microwave-Fenton processes at different pH values. The comparison of the effect of pH on ZVI performance, taking into account both heterogeneous Fenton and different Fenton-like processes, can guide future studies for developing ZVI applications in water and wastewater treatment.
Identification and Analysis of Compound Profiles of Sinisan Based on ‘Individual Herb, Herb-Pair, Herbal Formula’ before and after Processing Using UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS Coupled with Multiple Statistical Strategy
Authors: Zhou Jia , Cai Hao , Tu Sicong , Duan Yu , Pei Ke , Xu Yangyang , Liu Jing , Niu Minjie , Zhang Yating , Shen Lin , Zhou Qigang
Published: November 2018

Sinisan has been widely used to treat depression. However, its pharmacologically-effective constituents are largely unknown, and the pharmacological effects and clinical efficacies of Sinisan-containing processed medicinal herbs may change. To address these important issues, we developed an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS) method coupled with multiple statistical strategies to analyze the compound profiles of Sinisan, including individual herb, herb-pair, and complicated Chinese medicinal formula. As a result, 122 different constituents from individual herb, herb-pair, and complicated Chinese medicinal formula were identified totally. Through the comparison of three progressive levels, it suggests that processing herbal medicine and/or altering medicinal formula compatibility could change herbal chemical constituents, resulting in different pharmacological effects. This is also the first report that saikosaponin h/i and saikosaponin g have been identified in Sinisan.
A QM/MM Derived Polarizable Water Model for Molecular Simulation
Authors: Visscher Koen , Swope William , Geerke Daan
Published: November 2018

In this work, we propose an improved QM/MM-based strategy to determine condensed-phase polarizabilities and we use this approach to optimize a new and simple polarizable four-site water model for classical molecular simulation. For the determination of the model value for the polarizability from QM/MM, we show that our proposed consensus-fitting strategy significantly reduces the uncertainty in calculated polarizabilities in cases where the size of the local external electric field is small. By fitting electrostatic, polarization and dispersion properties of our water model based on quantum and/or combined QM/MM calculations, only a single model parameter (describing exchange repulsion) is left for empirical calibration. The resulting model performs well in describing relevant pure-liquid thermodynamic and transport properties, which illustrates the merit of our approach to minimize the number of free variables in our model.
Pharmacy Technician-Administered Vaccines: On Perceptions and Practice Reality
Authors: Adams Alex J. , Desselle Shane P. , McKeirnan Kimberly C.
Published: November 2018

Doucette and Schommer recently surveyed U.S. community pharmacy technicians on their willingness to perform tasks including the administration of vaccines. They found that 47.1% of technicians reported they were “unwilling” to administer a vaccine, although this finding must be placed into proper context. The first nationwide survey of U.S. pharmacist perceptions on immunizations in 1998 revealed only 2.2% of pharmacist respondents had administered adult vaccines and only 0.9% had administered childhood vaccines. They also found pharmacists to be “slightly negative on administering immunizations” with many perceived barriers. Nonetheless, pharmacist-provided immunizations have been an unqualified public health success. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) predicts intention from attitude and perceived behavioral control, among other factors. Given low involvement, exposure, and perceived behavioral control to administer vaccinations, technicians’ attitudes or willingness to participate from the Doucette and Shommer study can be regarded as quite positive. Given the results of a successful pilot project in Idaho and that subjective norms and perceived behavioral control will likely shift upward, one can only expect technicians’ willingness to participate in vaccinations to become more favorable and ultimately become a success.
A Fast Dense Feature-Matching Model for Cross-Track Pushbroom Satellite Imagery
Authors: Du Wen-Liang , Li Xiao-Yi , Ye Ben , Tian Xiao-Lin
Published: November 2018

Feature-based matching can provide high robust correspondences and it is usually invariant to image scale and rotation. Nevertheless, in remote sensing, the robust feature-matching algorithms often require costly computations for matching dense features extracted from high-resolution satellite images due to that the computational complexity of conventional feature-matching model is O ( N 2 ) . For replacing the conventional feature-matching model, a fast dense (FD) feature-matching model is proposed in this paper. The FD model reduces the computational complexity to linear by splitting the global one-to-one matching into a set of local matchings based on a classic frame-based rectification method. To investigate the possibility of applying the classic frame-based method on cross-track pushbroom images, a feasibility study is given by testing the frame-based method on 2.1 million independent experiments provided by a pushbroom based feature-correspondences simulation platform. Moreover, to improve the stability of the frame-based method, a correspondence-direction-constraint algorithm is proposed for providing the most favourable seed-matches/control-points. The performances of the FD and the conventional models are evaluated on both an automatic feature-matching evaluation platform and real satellite images. The evaluation results show that, for the feature-matching algorithms which have high computational complexity, their running time for matching dense features reduces from hours level to minutes level when they are operated on the FD model. Meanwhile, based the FD method, feature-matching algorithms can achieve comparable matching results as they achieved based on the conventional model.
Model Order Identification for Cable Force Estimation Using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo-Based Bayesian Approach
Authors: Zhan Shaodong , Li Zhi , Hu Jianmin , Liang Yiping , Zhang Guanglie
Published: November 2018

The tensile force on the hanger cables of a suspension bridge is an important indicator of the structural health of the bridge. Tensile force estimation methods based on the measured frequency of the hanger cable have been widely used. These methods empirically pre-determinate the corresponding model order of the measured frequency. However, because of the uncertain flexural rigidity, this empirical order determination method not only plays a limited role in high-order frequencies, but also hinders the online cable force estimation. Therefore, we propose a new method to automatically identify the corresponding model order of the measured frequency, which is based on a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC)-based Bayesian approach. It solves the limitation of empirical determination in the case of large flexural rigidity. The tensile force and the flexural rigidity of cables can be calculated simultaneously using the proposed method. The feasibility of the proposed method is validated via a numerical study involving a finite element model that considers the flexural rigidity and via field application to a suspension bridge.
An Electro-Mechanical Actuator Motor Voltage Estimation Method with a Feature-Aided Kalman Filter
Authors: Zhang Yujie , Liu Liansheng , Peng Yu , Liu Datong
Published: November 2018

Electro-Mechanical Actuators (EMA) have attracted growing attention with their increasing incorporation in More Electric Aircraft. The performance degradation assessment of EMA needs to be studied, in which EMA motor voltage is an essential parameter, to ensure its reliability and safety of EMA. However, deviation exists between motor voltage monitoring data and real motor voltage due to electromagnetic interference. To reduce the deviation, EMA motor voltage estimation generally requires an accurate voltage state equation which is difficult to obtain due to the complexity of EMA. To address this problem, a Feature-aided Kalman Filter (FAKF) method is proposed, in which the state equation is substituted by a physical model of current and voltage. Consequently, voltage state data can be obtained through current monitoring data and a current–voltage model. Furthermore, voltage estimation can be implemented by utilizing voltage state data and voltage monitoring data. To validate the effectiveness of the FAKF-based estimation method, experiments have been conducted based on the published data set from NASA’s Flyable Electro-Mechanical Actuator (FLEA) test stand. The experiment results demonstrate that the proposed method has good performance in EMA motor voltage estimation.
Effect of Environmental and Altruistic Attitudes on Willingness-to-Pay for Organic and Fair Trade Coffee in Flanders
Authors: Maaya Leonard , Meulders Michel , Surmont Nick , Vandebroek Martina
Published: November 2018

Sustainability labels, on food products, provide information to consumers that the product has been produced in an ethical and environmentally friendly way. We explore the knowledge and purchasing behaviour of the organic label and fair trade label. Secondly, we investigate the willingness-to-pay (WTP) for food products bearing organic and fair trade labels. Thirdly, we examine the effects of demographic characteristics and environmental and altruistic attitudes on WTP for both organic and fair trade labels. Lastly, we evaluate the correlation in WTP for organic and fair trade labels. We draw our conclusions by analyzing a stated choice experiment on consumers’ coffee buying behaviour in Flanders, Belgium. Our results suggest that knowledge of the fair trade label is higher than that of the organic label. The importance of the organic and fair trade labels on coffee purchase decisions, as well as their WTP estimates, were similar. We found a high correlation in WTP for both labels. Our results indicate significant effects of environmental and altruistic attitudes on WTP for both organic and fair trade labels as they apply to coffee.
Biofuel from Balanites aegyptiaca: Optimization of the Feedstock Supply Chain
Authors: Bambara Linda Dominique Fabiola , Sawadogo Marie , Roy Daniel , Anciaux Didier , Blin Joël , Ouiminga Salifou Koucka
Published: November 2018

In arid and semi-arid climates, Balanites aegyptiaca (B. aegyptiaca) is a potential plant to produce oilseed-based biofuels. In this paper an optimization model for a wild biomass supply chain is presented. The model was developed to identify the optimal organization of the supply network that minimizes the cost of supplying the feedstock. It was applied to a case study on a B. aegyptiaca seed supply chain in Burkina Faso. Considering different means of transport and different pre-processing locations, the results show that in contexts such as Burkina Faso’s, the most efficient option for the supply of B. aegyptiaca seeds is using animal drawn carts to transport the biomass from the harvest sites to the collection points. Feedstock pre-processing should take place before transport and an improvement in pre-processing operations by mechanical de-hulling could help reduce the cost price of the seeds. The results also show that more than 35% of the cost price of B. aegyptiaca seed is accounted for by transport costs. Pre-processing, handling, and storage costs account for about 50% of the cost of the seeds.