bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal Characterisation of Ground-level Ozone Concentration in Klang Valley
Authors: Mohamad Hashim Nur Izzah , Mohamed Noor Norazian , Yusof Sara Yasina
Published: March 2018

In Malaysia, ground-level ozone (O3) is one of the most significant air pollutants due to the increasing sources of ozone precursors. Hence, the surface O3 concentration should have received substantial attention because of its negative effects to human health, vegetation and the environment. In this study, hourly air pollutants dataset (i.e O3, Carbon monoxide (CO), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Particulate matter (PM10), Non-methane hydrocarbon (NmHC), Sulphur dioxide (SO2)) and weather parameters (i.e. wind speed (WS), wind direction (WD), temperature (T), ultraviolet B (UVB)) for ten years period (2003-2012) in Klang Valley were selected for analysis in this study. Two monitoring stations were selected that are Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam. The aim of the study is to determine the diurnal variations of O3 concentrations according to the seasonal monsoon and the correlation between the ground-level O3 concentration and others parameter. A high concentration of ground-level O3 was observed during the first transition (April to May) for both of the stations. While at a low surface, O3 concentration was found out during the southwest monsoon within June to September. Pearson correlation was used to find the correlation between the O3 concentration and all other pollutants and weather parameters. Most of the relationship between O3concentrationswas positively correlated with NO2 and negative relationship was found out with NMHC. These results were expected since these pollutants are known as the O3 precursors. Besides that, O3 concentration and its precursors show a positive significant correlation with all meteorological factors except for relative humidity.
The Effects of Saltwater Intrusion to Flood Mitigation Project
Authors: Abu Bakar Azinoor Azida , Khalil Muhammad Khairudin
Published: March 2018

The objective of this study is to determine the effects of saltwater intrusion to flood mitigation project located in the flood plains in the district of Muar, Johor. Based on the studies and designs carried out, one of the effective flood mitigation options identified is the Kampung Tanjung Olak bypass and Kampung Belemang bypass at the lower reaches of Sungai Muar. But, the construction of the Kampung Belemang and Tanjung Olak bypass, while speeding up flood discharges, may also increase saltwater intrusion during drought low flows. Establishing the dynamics of flooding, including replicating the existing situation and the performance with prospective flood mitigation interventions, is most effectively accomplished using computer-based modelling tools. The finding of this study shows that to overcome the problem, a barrage should be constructed at Sungai Muar to solve the saltwater intrusion and low yield problem of the river.
A study on performance characteristic: The effect of different parameter of renewable energy application
Authors: Tajudin Nadia , Amlus M. H. , Ibrahim Amlus , Abdullah Ahmad Zaidi , Saraeh Ummi Naeimah
Published: March 2018

Malaysia government still identify the best system in giving people solution on renewable energy. This study will focus on the performance of PV module. The characteristic of PV module still can be argued especially in absorbing the direct effect of sun light energy. The previous authors were not having a specific solution on the problem of the PV module implication after received the direct effect of sun light. This study will suggesting on the innovation of the process and system of PV module and restructuring the characteristic and provides information. The tools of quality PDCA and (OEE) will be used to identify the best solution using the different type of cooling system. From this information, the stake holder can decrease the cost of using this type of technology.
Applying the competence-based approach to management in the aerospace industry
Authors: Arpentieva Mariam , Duvalina Olga , Braitseva Svetlana , Gorelova Irina , Rozhnova Anna
Published: March 2018

Problems of management in aerospace manufacturing are similar to those we observe in other sectors, the main of which is the flattening of strategic management. The main reason lies in the attitude towards human resource of the organization. In the aerospace industry employs 250 thousand people, who need individual approach. The individual approach can offer competence-based approach to management. The purpose of the study is proof of the benefits of the competency approach to human resource management in context strategic management of the aerospace organization. To achieve this goal it is possible to obtain the method of comparative analysis. The article compares two approaches to personnel management. The transition to competence-based human resource management means (a) a different understanding of the object of management; (b) involvement in all functions of human resource management «knowledge – skills – abilities» of the employee; (c) to change the approach to strategic management aerospace industry.
Didactic communication in the training of specialists in aerospace engineering
Authors: Arpentieva Mariam , Menshikov Peter , Braitseva Svetlana
Published: March 2018

The article is devoted to the study of the problems of didactic communication in the training of engineering personnel for the aerospace industry and to the study of the problems of the communication of subjects concerning the training and education of highly qualified engineering personnel for the aerospace industry. In the training of engineering personnel for the aerospace industry the integrated model of didactic communication involves the identification and description of its various components, typical modes of interaction (modes) that reflect different aspects of the person's understanding of the world around him and himself in the process of different types of education and upbringing. Didactic communication in the process of training engineering personnel for the aerospace industry is a multi-level, multi-stage and multi-component phenomenon. The modes, possibilities and limitations of this communication are related to the level and direction of personal, interpersonal and professional development of interaction subjects. The productivity of preparing engineering personnel for the aerospace industry is related to the choice of a model of didactic communication, which is addressed in different ways to the development of cognitive, value-semantic and meta-cognitive structures that form one or another type of education and upbringing.
Design issues of the piezo motor for the spacecraft reflector control system
Authors: Azin Anton , Rikkonen Sergey , Ponomarev Sergey , Kuznetsov Stanislav
Published: March 2018

Creation of large-size reflectors for spacecrafts is a topical issue for the space industry. The accuracy of the reflecting surface form and the structure weight are the main criteria for the reflector design. The accuracy of the reflecting surface form during a long-term operation is provided by adjustment when using piezoelectric motors in the reflector design. These motors have small weight-size parameters and can reach great torque values. The piezo motor is a distributed mechanical-acoustic oscillation system. Mechanical-acoustic oscillations are generated in the piezo motor by a PZT-stack and transmitted to an oscillator element, and then from the oscillator element to a load action element. At high frequencies, when dimensions of the oscillator are proportionate to the wavelength, the energy is transmitted by means of acoustic waves. In this case, mechanical waves practically are not involved in the energy transmission process. This thesis shows a method for selecting the material of a mechanical-acoustic oscillation system according to the efficiency of the acoustic energy transmission via a piezoelectric layered structure.
Torque motor tape winding characteristics and its connection with design parameters
Authors: Dolgih Antonina , Martemyanov Vladimir
Published: March 2018

The paper considers the features of a tape winding torque motor development. Novel motor type allows to obtain an increased torque by the high current flowing through the tape winding. It is shown that the most effective way of the torque increasing is the tape winding plate resistance reducing.
Real-time perspective correction in video stream
Authors: Glagolev Vladislav , Ladonkin Alexander
Published: March 2018

The paper describes an algorithm used for software perspective correction. The algorithm uses the camera’s orientation angles and transforms the coordinates of pixels on a source image to coordinates on a virtual image form the camera whose focal plane is perpendicular to the gravity vector. This algorithm can be used as a low-cost replacement of a gyrostabilazer in specific applications that restrict using movable parts or heavy and pricey equipment.
Time-saving method of orbital thermal regime calculations of nanosatellites as exemplified by a 3U CubeSat
Authors: Gorev Vasily , Prokopyev Vitaly , Prokopyev Yury , Sidorchuk Alexey
Published: March 2018

A time-saving approach to perform technical calculations of thermal conditions of orbital motion of 3U CubeSat nanosatellite was applied, which made it possible to make the thermal calculations of a satellite with simple structure geometry using MatLab and SolidWorks Simulation. Passive thermal regulation facilities are sufficient for a 3U CubeSat to provide thermal conductivity of the case’s structural elements and to remove heat from the lighted surface and internal components to the satellite’s shadowed surface. Application of spectrally selective coatings allows narrowing the range of surface temperatures of 3U CubeSat.
Application of satellites system based on different heights for ionospheric disturbances monitoring
Authors: Kaloshin Ivan , Skripachev Vladimir , Surovceva Irina , Kuznetsov Vladimir , Kharlamov Alexander
Published: March 2018

Results of data processing on-board Langmuir probes of CHAMP and DEMETER satellites are presented. The characteristics of satellites are given. Analysis of ionospheric parameters before strong earthquake is performed. At the altitudes of the satellites anomalous changes in the ionosphere parameters were detected a few days before the seismic event. Frequency distribution of anomalous ionospheric disturbances is obtained.
Calibration setup with metrological support for space qualified electric field probe
Authors: Kozlov Alexey , Shilov Alexander , Styuf Alexey , Doroshkin Alexander , Nikitenko Anatoly
Published: March 2018

The article shows the results of calculations necessary for testing to approve the space qualified electric field probe used in outer space. A special electric field probe calibration setup was developed and manufactured, which allows testing a space qualified electric field probe in the entire measurement range (from ± 0.1 to ± 200 kV/m) under low (-80 °C) and high (+72 °C) temperatures and at reduced pressure of 1.3 · 10-3 Pa (10-5 torr). Metrological tests of the probes batch, calibrated by the space qualified electric field probe calibrator, performed at the verification equipment under normal conditions, showed that the maximum error of the electric field probe does not exceed 15% in the entire measurements range which will increase the accuracy of determining the satellite surface charging parameters and help in designing modern spacecrafts.
The Convergence of the telematic, computing and information services as a basis for using artificial intelligence to manage complex techno-organizational systems
Authors: Raikov Alexander , Trachuk Arkady , Romanova Yulia , Loginova Valery , Bortalevich Vitalia
Published: March 2018

The authors analyses the problems of using artificial intelligence to manage complex techno-organizational systems on the basis of the convergence of the telematic, computing and information services in order to manage complex techno-organizational systems in the aerospace industry. This means getting the space objects a higher level of management based on the self-organizing integration principle. Using the artificial intelligence elements allows us to get more optimal and limit values parameters of the ordinal and critical situations in real time. Thus, it helps us to come closer to the limit values parameters of the managed objects due to rising managing and observant possibilities.
Analyse de la dégradation thermique du Poly(éther éther cétone)
Authors: Courvoisier Emilie , Bicaba Yoann , Colin Xavier
Published: March 2018

La dégradation thermique du PEEK a été étudiée à l’état caoutchoutique dans de larges intervalles de température (entre 180 et 320 °C) et de pression partielle d’oxygène (entre 0,21 et 50 bars). Tout d’abord, les mécanismes de vieillissement thermique ont été analysés et élucidés par spectroscopie IRTF et par calorimétrie différentielle (DSC) sur des films de PEEK suffisamment minces (entre 10 et 60 μm d’épaisseur) pour s’affranchir totalement des effets de la diffusion d’oxygène. L’oxydation se produit sur les cycles aromatiques provoquant la croissance de cinq nouvelles bandes d’absorption IR centrées à 3650, 3525, 1780, 1740 et 1718 cm-1 et attribuées aux vibrations d’élongation des liaisons O–H du phénol et de l’acide benzoïque, et des liaisons C–O de l’anhydride benzoïque, du benzoate de phényle et de la fluorénone respectivement. De plus, l’oxydation conduit à une large prédominance de la réticulation sur les coupures de chaîne (augmentation de Tg) empêchant le recuit du PEEK, en particulier lorsque la température d’exposition est supérieure au pied du pic de fusion. Enfin, les conséquences de l’oxydation sur les propriétés élastiques ont été analysées et élucidées par micro-indentation sur des sections droites préalablement polies de plaquettes de PEEK de 3 mm d’épaisseur. Les variations du module d’Young et du taux de cristallinité se corrèlent parfaitement, vérifiant ainsi la relation de Tobolsky.
Assessing viability and infectivity of foodborne and waterborne stages (cysts/oocysts) of Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Toxoplasma gondii: a review of methods
Authors: Rousseau Angélique , La Carbona Stéphanie , Dumètre Aurélien , Robertson Lucy J. , Gargala Gilles , Escotte-Binet Sandie , Favennec Loïc , Villena Isabelle , Gérard Cédric , Aubert Dominique
Published: March 2018

Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Toxoplasma gondii are protozoan parasites that have been highlighted as emerging foodborne pathogens by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization. According to the European Food Safety Authority, 4786 foodborne and waterborne outbreaks were reported in Europe in 2016, of which 0.4% were attributed to parasites including Cryptosporidium, Giardia and Trichinella. Until 2016, no standardized methods were available to detect Giardia, Cryptosporidium and Toxoplasma (oo)cysts in food. Therefore, no regulation exists regarding these biohazards. Nevertheless, considering their low infective dose, ingestion of foodstuffs contaminated by low quantities of these three parasites can lead to human infection. To evaluate the risk of protozoan parasites in food, efforts must be made towards exposure assessment to estimate the contamination along the food chain, from raw products to consumers. This requires determining: (i) the occurrence of infective protozoan (oo)cysts in foods, and (ii) the efficacy of control measures to eliminate this contamination. In order to conduct such assessments, methods for identification of viable (i.e. live) and infective parasites are required. This review describes the methods currently available to evaluate infectivity and viability of G. duodenalis cysts, Cryptosporidium spp. and T. gondii oocysts, and their potential for application in exposure assessment to determine the presence of the infective protozoa and/or to characterize the efficacy of control measures. Advantages and limits of each method are highlighted and an analytical strategy is proposed to assess exposure to these protozoa.
Potential Herb-Drug Pharmacokinetic Interactions between African Wild Olive Leaf Extract and Selected Antihypertensive Drugs
Authors: Mmopele Katlego , Combrinck Sandra , Hamman Josias , Willers Clarissa , Chen Weiyang , Viljoen Alvaro
Published: March 2018

The African wild olive (Olea europaea subsp. africana) is traditionally used as a hypotensive agent. Herb-drug interactions may result from the concurrent use of herbal medicines and conventional prescription drugs. This aspect was investigated by determining the effect of the extract on the in vitro intestinal epithelial permeation of selected hypotensive drugs using the Caco-2 cell culture model. The phytochemical profiles of leaf extracts of African wild olive from different localities in South Africa were compared, since efficacy is determined by the chemical composition. Extracts were analysed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography. The oleuropein concentration varied considerably from below the detection limit (4.94 µg/mL) to 59.4 mg/g dry weight. Chemometric models constructed from the aligned chromatographic data indicated only quantitative differences between the profiles. The leaf extract was found to increase the permeability of propranolol in the absorptive direction (Papp = 8.93 × 10−6 cm/s) across Caco-2 cell monolayers, but considerably decreased transport in the secretory direction (Papp = 3.68 × 10−6 cm/s). The permeation of diltiazem was enhanced by the extract in both the absorptive (Papp = 7.33 × 10−6 cm/s) as well as in the secretory direction (Papp = 7.16 × 10−6 cm/s), but a decrease in the efflux ratio was observed. The extract therefore caused a net increase in the transport of both drugs in the absorptive direction due to an inhibition effect on their efflux. This suggests a potential increase in the blood levels of these drugs when taken simultaneously with African wild olive leaf extract, indicating potential adverse effects that must be verified in vivo.
Bioactive Segetane, Ingenane, and Jatrophane Diterpenes from Euphorbia taurinensis
Authors: Rédei Dóra , Kúsz Norbert , Sátori Gréta , Kincses Annamária , Spengler Gabriella , Burián Katalin , Barina Zoltán , Hohmann Judit
Published: March 2018

A novel segetane (1) and jatrophane diterpene (2), together with five known diterpenoids possessing segetane (3), jatrophane (4), and ingenane skeletons (5 – 7), were isolated from the methanol extract of Euphorbia taurinensis All. The structure elucidation of the compounds was performed by means of extensive spectroscopic analysis, including HRESIMS and 1D (1H, J-modulated spin-echo carbon experiment) and 2D (HSQC, HMBC, COSY, NOESY) NMR experiments. The multidrug resistance reversing and cytotoxic effects of five diterpenes (1, 4 – 7) were studied on the L5178 mouse lymphoma cell line using rhodamine 123 accumulation and the MTT cell viability assay. Segetane and jatrophane diterpenes had no cytotoxic activity on the sensitive parent and multidrug resistance cells, while ingenane diterpenes showed a cytotoxic effect on both cell lines. Ingenanes 6 and 7 and segetane 1 demonstrated the remarkable multidrug resistance modulating effect at 20 µM.
Synthesis of Substrates for Aldolase-Catalysed Reactions: A Comparison of Methods for the Synthesis of Substituted Phenylacetaldehydes
Authors: Al-Smadi Derar , Enugala Thilak , Norberg Thomas , Kihlberg Jan , Widersten Mikael
Published: March 2018

Methods for the synthesis of phenylacetaldehydes (oxidation, one-carbon chain extension) were compared by using the synthesis of 4-methoxyphenylacetaldehyde as a model example. Oxidations of 4-methoxyphenylethanol with activated DMSO (Swern oxidation) or manganese dioxide gave unsatisfactory results; whereas oxidation with 2-iodoxybenzoic acid (IBX) produced 4-methoxyphenylacetaldehyde in reasonable (75%) yield. However, Wittig-type one-carbon chain extension with methoxymethylene-triphenylphosphine followed by hydro­lysis gave an excellent (81% overall) yield of 4-methoxyphenylacetaldehyde from 4-methoxybenzaldehyde (a cheap starting material). This approach was subsequently used to synthesise a set of 10 substituted phenylacetaldehydes in good to excellent yields.
Ascites and Encapsulating Peritonitis in Endometriosis: a Systematic Review with a Case Report
Authors: Magalhães Thais Fontes de , Augusto Kathiane Lustosa , Mota Livia Ponte , Costa Arthur Ribeiro da , Puster Rainardo Antonio , Bezerra Leonardo Robson Pinheiro Sobreira
Published: March 2018

Endometriosis can have several different presentations, including overt ascites and peritonitis; increased awareness can improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. We aim to provide a systematic review and report a case of endometriosis with this unusual clinical presentation. The PubMed/MEDLINE database was systematically reviewed until October 2016. Women with histologically-proven endometriosis presenting with clinically significant ascites and/or frozen abdomen and/or encapsulating peritonitis were included; those with potentially confounding conditions were excluded. Our search yielded 37 articles describing 42 women, all of reproductive age. Ascites was mostly hemorrhagic, recurrent and not predicted by cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) levels. In turn, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and infertility were not consistently reported. The treatment choices and outcomes were different across the studies, and are described in detail. Endometriosis should be a differential diagnosis of massive hemorrhagic ascites in women of reproductive age.
Dislocation Rates following Anterior Approach THA: The Role of Functional Pelvic Tilt
Authors: McNamara Colin , Slotkin Eric , Mutnal Amar , Barsoum Wael , Suarez Juan , Patel Preetesh
Published: March 2018

Various target zones for acetabular cup placement have been suggested to minimize dislocation following total hip arthroplasty (THA), though dislocations occur despite proper positioning. The authors have reported accuracy of fluoroscopic guidance in cup positioning during direct anterior approach (DAA) THA when using a standardized fluoroscopic technique functional pelvic tilt. They believe that cup placement with regard to functional pelvic tilt, rather than static reference frames, will offer improved stability. A cohort of 1,597 fluoroscopy-assisted DAA primary unilateral THA patients was prospectively followed for a minimum of 1 year and component position measured radiographically. Target cup position was based off the standing anteroposterior pelvis while using conventional safe zone parameters. Dislocation rate was assessed. Average follow-up was 13.1 months (range 1–6 years). The mean abduction angle was 37.7° and the mean anteversion angle was 16.2°. Overall, 1,517 (95.0%) fell within the targeted abduction range, 1,528 (95.7%) fell within the targeted anteversion range, and 1,456 (91.2%) simultaneously met both criteria. There were nine dislocations, eight within the combined safe zone, for a dislocation rate of 0.56%. Fluoroscopy can improve accuracy and precision of cup placement in DAA THA. Conventional safe zone parameters applied using functional pelvic tilt resulted in a low dislocation rate, with most dislocations occurring within the safe zone. Using a dynamic functional safe zone may further reduce dislocation rates after DAA THA, though other factors that contribute to instability must be accounted for in future studies. This study had a III level of evidence.
Procoagulant Effects of Low-Level Platelet Activation and Its Inhibition by Colchicine
Authors: Pennings Gabrielle , Curnow Jennifer , Chen Vivien , Reddel Caroline , Kritharides Leonard
Published: March 2018

Platelets play an important role in diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, especially through their release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and role in thrombosis. The effects of the anti-inflammatory drug colchicine on platelets are not well understood. We investigated the effect of colchicine on the release of pro-coagulant EVs from platelets under low-level activation. Citrated platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from healthy donors was incubated with 2 mM colchicine or vehicle at 37°C for 30 minutes with gentle rotation. The incubation conditions caused mild platelet activation (expression of CD62P and increased surface lactadherin binding) and release of EVs expressing phosphatidylserine (PS, measured by binding of lactadherin), CD61 and CD62P, both of which were attenuated by colchicine. The incubation conditions shortened the delay to fibrin generation and this correlated with elevated levels of PS+/CD61+ EVs. Removal of EVs from plasma abrogated clot formation in the overall haemostatic potential (OHP) assay. Colchicine decreased levels of both PS+/CD61+ and CD62P+ EVs and abrogated the shortened delay to fibrin generation achieved by platelet activation. Similar results were observed after incubation of PRP with 200 µM vinblastine, suggesting a microtubular effect. An alternative method of platelet activation using platelet agonists 20 µM ADP or 10 µM epinephrine also increased CD62P+ EV levels, and this too was attenuated by prior incubation with colchicine. Our novel findings demonstrate procoagulant effects of low-level platelet activation and EV formation which are inhibited by colchicine.
Factors Involved in Maintaining Haemostasis in Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Fernández Bello Ihosvany , Jiménez-Yuste Víctor , de Paz Raquel , Martín Salces Mónica , Justo Sanz Raul , Monzón Manzano Elena , Arias-Salgado Elena , Álvarez Román María , Rivas Pollmar María , Goyanes Isabel , Butta Nora
Published: March 2018

Etiopathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) might cause per se an anomalous haemostasis that can be even more deteriorated by thrombocytopaenia. So, evaluation of haemostasis in patients with MDS rises as a necessity.

This work aimed to characterize haemostasis in non-bleeder MDS patients with a platelet count similar to healthy controls to establish differences between the two groups not related to thrombocytopaenia.

Thromboelastometry in samples from MDS patients suggested the existence of at least two antagonistic processes: one of them giving a hypocoagulable pattern (prolonged clotting time and lower α angle) and another conferring a procoagulant profile (decreased fibrinolysis). Hypocoagulable state might be due to a decreased ability of platelets to be stimulated and to the presence in plasma of a factor/s that prolonged the time to initiate thrombin generation. This factor/s might be antibodies as this effect was observed in samples from MDS patients with an associated autoimmune-inflammatory condition.

Otherwise, hypercoagulable state seemed to rely on an increased presence of red cell- and monocyte-derived microparticles and to the increased exposure of phosphatidylserine that served as scaffold for binding of coagulation factors.

We concluded that haemostasis in MDS patients is a complex process influenced by more factors than platelet count.
Management of Atypical Squamous Cell Cases: A Prospective Study of Women seen at a Private Health Service in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Geilson Gomes de , Oliveira Judite Maria da Silva Costa de , Eleutério Renata Mirian Nunes , Eleutério Júnior José
Published: March 2018

Objective To assess the management chosen by gynecologists after atypical squamous cells (ASCs) cytology results, and to evaluate the outcomes of these cases in Brazilian women.

Methods A prospective observational study evaluated the initial management offered by the gynecologist in the case of 2,458 ASCs cytology results collected between January of 2010 and July of 2016. The outcomes of the cytology, high-risk human papilloma virus (HR-HPV) test and histology were compared in two subgroups: atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) and atypical squamous cells-cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H).

Results In many cases of ASC-US (36.97%) and ASC-H (40.50%), no clinical actions were taken. Cytology was the most frequent follow-up chosen, including for cases of ASC-H, which goes against the conduct recommended in the national guideline. In women over 30 years of age, the period of time elapsed between an ASC-US result and a new cytology was in 13.03 months, in disagreement with the national guideline recommendations (p < 0.0001). Negative for intraepithelial lesions or malignancy (NILM) cytologic (p = 0.0026) and histologic (p = 0.0017) results in the follow-up were associated with prior ASC-US, while negative results for ASC-H were cytologically (p < 0.0001) and histologically associated with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) (p < 0.0001). Two invasive cervical carcinomas (ICCs) were found in the follow-up for ASC-H, and there was a statistically significant association (p = 0.0341). A positive HR-HPV test was associated with ASC-H (p = 0.0075).

Conclusion The data suggest that even for a population of Brazilian women assisted at private clinics, the national guidelines recommendations for ASCs results are not followed.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis as Cause of Central Diabetes Insipidus: Case Report
Authors: Nascimento Diana , Teixeira Manoel , Figueiredo Eberval
Published: March 2018

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease of the monocyte-macrophage system, characterized by the aberrant proliferation of specific dendritic cells. The clinical presentation ranges from a single bone lesion to widespread multiorgan involvement. This disease is usually considered to be a disease of childhood; however, the diagnosis is frequently made in adulthood. The course of the disease is fairly unpredictable and varies from spontaneous resolution to progress into a debilitating form, which compromises the vital functions with occasional fatal consequences. Langerhans cell histiocytosis exhibits a predilection for the hypothalamic-pituitary-axis, with diabetes insipidus being the most common endocrine consequence related to the disease, which may be prior to diagnosis or develop at any time during the course of the disease. The diagnosis of LCH should be based on histologic and immunophenotypic examination of a lesional biopsy, although other testing may be done, depending on the symptoms. There is no established, widely agreed-upon treatment of LCH, in general. The treatment depends upon the individual patient and the extent and areas of involvement. The present article aims to describe the case of a 26-year-old male patient whose symptoms started with a headache and occipital bone lesion that progressed later with diabetes insipidus.
Atemwegsmanagement in der Thoraxanästhesie mit dem Bronchusblocker
Authors: Kreft Tom , Hachenberg Thomas
Published: March 2018

Bronchusblocker stellen für die Ein-Lungen-Ventilation eine Alternative zum Doppellumentubus dar – bei spezifischen Patientengruppen können sie sogar die einzige Option für die Lungenisolation sein. In diesem Beitrag werden Indikationen für Bronchusblocker gezeigt und die verfügbaren Modelle mit praktischen Hinweisen vorgestellt. Im Anschluss wird die klinische Anwendbarkeit der Bronchusblocker mit der des Doppellumentubus verglichen.
Erhaltung kognitiver Funktionen im Alter
Authors: Eckert Gunter P.
Published: March 2018

Omega-Fettsäuren sind ungesättigte Fettsäuren, die in pflanzlichen und tierischen
Ölen und Fetten vorkommen. Der Begriff „Omega“ bezieht sich auf das
Kohlenstoffende einer Fettsäure, die nachfolgende Zahl gibt die Position der
ersten Doppelbindung im Molekül vom Ende her gesehen an. Für den menschlichen
Körper besonders von Bedeutung sind Omega-3- und Omega-6-Fettsäuren.
α-Linolensäure (18 : 3 Omega-3, n-3) und Linolsäure (18 : 2 Omega-6, n-6) sind
essenzielle Fettsäuren, die mit der Nahrung zugeführt werden müssen.
Neuere Erkenntnisse über Vitamin D
Authors: Zittermann Armin
Published: March 2018

Vitamin D ist
eine für den Menschen essenzielle Substanz, die eine zentrale Rolle bei der
Regulation des Calcium- und Phosphathaushalts spielt, aber auch eine Reihe
sogenannter nichtklassischer Wirkungen entfaltet wie immunmodulatorische
Effekte, Steigerung der Insulinsekretion und Sensitivität sowie Einfluss auf
Zelldifferenzierung und Apoptose. Als essenzielle Substanz muss Vitamin D dem
Körper lebenslang in ausreichender Menge zur Verfügung gestellt werden.
Videoendoskopische minimalinvasive inguinale Lymphknotenentfernung: eine komplikationsärmere Alternative zur offenen inguinalen Lymphadenektomie
Authors: Dobroschke Jakob , Groß Tina , Weitz Jürgen , Reißfelder Christoph
Published: March 2018

Zielsetzung Die offen-chirurgische inguinale Lymphknotenentfernung ist ein Standardverfahren bei onkologischen Lymphknotenentfernungen, die mit einer hohen Morbidität von bis zu 77% einhergeht. Diese Komplikationen verursachen häufig eine Verzögerung der adjuvanten Therapie. Im Rahmen dieses Videopapers soll das potenziell komplikationsärmere Verfahren der videoendoskopischen inguinalen Lymphknotenentfernung (VEIL) vorgestellt werden.

Indikation Die Indikationsstellung zur VEIL unterscheidet sich nicht zu den offen-chirurgischen Verfahren. Eine vorangegangene Sentinel-Lymphknoten-Entnahme stellt keine Kontraindikation dar.

Methode Nach stumpfer Dissektion auf der Scarpa-Faszie werden 3 – 4 Trokare eingebracht und der trianguläre Bereich der femoralen Lymphknoten disseziert. Durch CO2-Insufflation wird der chirurgische Arbeitsraum geschaffen und erhalten. Die entnommenen Lymphknoten werden mittels Bergebeutel über eine Trokareintrittsstelle entfernt.

Schlussfolgerung In verschiedenen Studien konnte belegt werden, dass die VEIL insbesondere in Bezug auf die Wundheilungsrate eine komplikationsärmere Alternative zum herkömmlichen offen-chirurgischen Verfahren darstellt.
How to Support Clients and Vendors in IT Outsourcing Engagements: The Different Roles of Third-party Advisory Services
Authors: Erdogmus Turgut , Czermak Marcel , Baumsteiger Devin , Kohn Daniel , Boller-Hoffecker Annalena , Schmidt Nikolaus , Linden Robert
Published: March 2018

The outsourcing of information technology to external providers has been a phenomenon for organizations around the world since decades. The main reasons for this trend are, for example, cost reductions through scaling, the temporary inclusion of specific skills in the own organization as well as the joint development of innovative solutions with an external partner. The client organization “RetBa,” a major private insurance company, was facing serious quality and performance issues in the delivery of the workplace services. Hence, in 2005 they decided for an outsourcing solution aiming at moving the responsibility for managing IT workplace services for over 50,000 seats worldwide to the external service provider “EuTu.” Over the years, the outsourcing project faced several problems due to the lack of performance and delayed delivery of services by the service provider EuTu. To solve these quality issues and avoid further failures, in 2011 RetBa appointed Scaleit Consulting, a third-party advisor. Scaleit Consulting had the responsibility to identify the causes for these issues, revise the workplace strategy, and support RetBa in the communication with the service provider.
Development of autonomous food dehydration system based on building integrated photovoltaic thermal technology
Authors: Yakobiuk D. , Jagomagi A. , Yakobiuk I.
Published: March 2018

This study aims to share experience in designing, building, and testing of a portable and energetically autonomous food dehydration system based on the air type building integrated photovoltaic thermal (BIPVT) roof and to perform simulations of drying system performance under different climates. The drying system is based on air-type BIPVT collectors as main heat and electricity sources. BIPVT collectors are metal sheet integrated photovoltaic (PV) modules with the air gap organized under PV modules. The total power of PV panels is 1 kW. In addition, the system comprises a piping system, a fan, batteries, dampers, heat recovery unit, a drying chamber, and an electrical heater for auxiliary heating. The system can work in three operational modes depending on weather conditions. During indoor experiments, the irradiance to heat conversion ratio was obtained, which is the ratio of irradiance power solar on top of the roof to heating power produced by the system. It was about 0.4 kW/kW in mode 1 and 0.5 kW/kW in mode 2. However, the results of the simulations showed that it is possible to achieve the irradiance to heat conversion ratio between 0.3 and 1.2 kW/kW depending on the air flow rate and the operational mode. The results of the simulations during the period June – September showed that the total heat energy produced by the system is 3223 and 3479 kWh in Tallinn and Provence, respectively. However, for autonomous operation for 24/7, the system requires additional electricities of 355 and 142 kWh in Tallinn and Provence, respectively. When the irradiance level is higher than 300 W/m2 in Provence and 400 W/m2 in Tallinn, the system is fully autonomous.
Highly efficient induction of spin polarization by circularly polarized electromagnetic waves in the Rashba spin-orbit systems
Authors: Mochizuki Masahito , Ihara Keisuke , Ohe Jun-ichiro , Takeuchi Akihito
Published: March 2018

We theoretically demonstrate that a rotating electric-field component of circularly polarized microwaves or terahertz light can induce electron-spin polarization within a few picoseconds in a two-dimensional electron system with the Rashba spin-orbit interaction by taking advantage of magnetoelectric coupling. The efficiency turns out to be several orders of magnitude greater than that of conventional methods, indicating high potential of this technique in future spintronics.
Seed contamination in sheep: new investigations into an old problem
Authors: Kelly J. E. , Quinn J. C. , Loukopoulos P. , Broster J. C. , Behrendt K. , Weston L. A.
Published: March 2018

Seed contamination significantly affects production capacity and animal welfare in Australian sheep flocks and causes considerable financial loss to producers and processors across sheepmeat value chains. Seven grass-weed species contribute to seed contamination in Australia, with barley grass (Hordeum spp.) identified as a key perpetrator. Herbicide resistance and variable dormancy emerging in southern Australian barley grass populations are thought to enhance its capacity for successful pasture invasion, further exacerbating the potential for seed contamination in sheep. The present article reviews the current literature regarding the impact and incidence of seed contamination on sheepmeat production, with particular reference to key grass-weed species prevalence across Australia. Data are presented on a recent incidence of carcass contamination across years, where incidence varied between 11% and 80% from 2009 to 2013, contracting to between 2% and 60% during 2014 and 2015. Key areas requiring future research are defined. Understanding the biology of key grass weeds, historical influences and economic consequences associated with seed contamination in sheep may assist in defining future risks to sheep production and improve weed management. Furthermore, examining more recent data describing the current status of seed contamination across Australia and the associations with causal weed species may aid the development of critical weed-management strategies in highly infested regions, subsequently limiting the extent of future seed contamination.
A comparative structural study of nitrogen-rich fulvic acids from various Antarctic lakes
Authors: Farzadnia Sahar , Nimmagadda Rama D. , McRae Christopher
Published: March 2018

Environmental contextFulvic acids are important naturally occurring organic materials, but unravelling their complex structures remains challenging. This paper suggests chemical analyses to facilitate structural studies of fulvic acids, and to investigate the similarities and differences of fulvic acids from various natural sources.
AbstractWe comprehensively examined fulvic acids isolated from three lakes in Vestfold Hills, eastern Antarctica and microbial reference fulvic acid from Pony Lake located in western Antarctica. These fulvic acids were compared in terms of their structural similarities and differences by means of elemental analysis, cross polarisation magic-angle spinning (CP-MAS) 13C NMR spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) thermochemolysis coupled to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results indicate that these Antarctic fulvic acids show notable differences in chemical composition and structure; in particular XPS demonstrates that the distribution of nitrogen-containing compounds in the nitrogen-rich Antarctic fulvic acids differ significantly from each other. The dissimilarities are also highlighted in terms of quantity and quality of their nitrogenous constituents. For instance, Organic Lake Fulvic Acid (OLFA) contains around 10 times lower amide groups (pyrimidine–peptide N) than Pendant Lake Fulvic Acid (PNFA). It also shows 1.5 times less quaternary amine than Mossel Lake Fulvic Acid (MLFA) and PNFA. According to CP-MAS 13C NMR experiments the carbohydrate content in Vestfold Hills fulvic acid is higher than that of Pony Lake Fulvic Acid (PLFA), suggesting that dissolved organic matter (DOM) from Vestfold Hills Lakes is immature. TMAH–GC-MS demonstrated that Antarctic fulvic acids are enriched in heterocyclic non-aromatic nitrogen-containing components such as pyrimidine structures, with the exception of OLFA. Furthermore, tricyclic terpenoids (dehydroabietic acid) were detected in two out of four fulvic acids tabulated using TMAH–GC-MS. Although diterpenes are commonly associated with plants and fungi, their occurrence in Antarctic fulvic acids could be justified due to their diverse origins from cyanobacteria to aerosols.
Roles of hydrogen gas in plants: a review
Authors: Li Changxia , Gong Tingyu , Bian Biting , Liao Weibiao
Published: March 2018

Hydrogen gas (H2) was first identified as a unique molecular messenger in animals. Since H2 was reported as a novel antioxidant, it has been proven effective in treating many diseases. However, the studies concerning H2 in plants are just beginning to emerge. Here, two paths of H2 production in plants have been reported, namely, hydrogenase and nitrogenase. H2 has positive effects on seed germination, seedling growth, adventitious rooting, root elongation, harvest freshness, stomatal closure and anthocyanin synthesis. H2 also can enhance plant symbiotic stress resistance commonly through the enhancement of antioxidant defence system. Moreover, H2 shows cross talk with nitric oxide, carbon monoxide and other signalling molecules (for example, abscisic acid, ethylene and jasmonate acid). H2 can regulate the expression of responsive genes under abiotic stress and during adventitious roots formation and anthocyanin biosynthesis. Future work will need to focus on the molecular mechanism of H2 and its crosstalk with other signalling molecules in plants. With its promising application in agriculture, hydrogen agriculture will be welcomed in the near future.
Quantifying leucaena cultivation extent on grazing land
Authors: Beutel Terrence S. , Corbet Debra H. , Hoffmann Madonna B. , Buck Stuart R. , Kienzle Marco
Published: March 2018

Leucaena is a perennial fodder crop that can significantly improve beef production across substantial parts of the world’s grazing lands. We surveyed leucaena cultivations across 350 000 km2 of Australia’s prime leucaena-growing region, using a new approach to quantify leucaena coverage and distribution. This approach uses high resolution imagery to detect leucaena by the distinctive alley cultivation pattern that is typical in the region and in many other parts of the world. We estimated there are ~123 500 ha of leucaena in the study region. Although no prior estimate of leucaena coverage has been based on exactly the same geographic area, our data strongly suggest that recent published estimates of leucaena coverage for Queensland and Australia are substantial overestimates. In addition to providing robust estimates of total leucaena coverage, we demonstrate how the method can also contribute to other survey objectives such as comparison of actual with potential spatial distribution, and assessment of statistical sampling power. We also discuss the potential application of the new method in international contexts.
Thinking upstream: the roles of international health and drug policies in public health responses to chemsex
Authors: Stevens Oliver , Forrest Jamie I.
Published: March 2018

Chemsex is a growing public health concern in urban centres, and few interventions exist to mitigate the significant sexual, drug-related, and social harms potentially experienced by people who participate in chemsex. In much of the world, these immediate harms are further compounded by the criminalisation and stigmatisation of both homosexuality and drug use, preventing participants fully engaging with treatment services or provision of health care. Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men participating in chemsex fall between the traditional definitions of key populations and consequently are poorly provided for by existing drug and sexual health frameworks. Aetiologically complex issues such as chemsex require multifaceted interventions that may fall outside conventional frameworks. Existing interventions have been designed and implemented at the local level. The use of international policy to mitigate these structural barriers, however, has largely been ignored. International policy is broad in nature and its implementation is, in principle, binding for member states. We believe that despite its low international prevalence, international policy can be of use in improving the lives of people who participate in chemsex. Through stimulating a much-needed debate on the interplay between sex and drugs within global health and harm reduction frameworks, this paper aims to address the paucity of substantial discussion surrounding the applicability of international language to chemsex. We analyse international policy aimed at addressing HIV, illicit drugs, harm reduction, and development, and make recommendations for both national advocacy, and advocates working to alter the positions of member states internationally.
Duplicated TLR5 of zebrafish functions as a heterodimeric receptor
Authors: Voogdt Carlos G. P. , Wagenaar Jaap A. , van Putten Jos P. M.
Published: March 2018

Significance

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are highly conserved innate receptors that form homo- or heterodimers to detect microbial danger signals and activate the immune system. TLR5 detects flagellin of bacteria and functions as a homodimeric receptor complex. A crystallized fragment of TLR5b of the zebrafish (
Danio rerio
) serves as a model structure for the homodimeric TLR5–flagellin interaction. Here we report that zebrafish TLR5 unexpectedly functions as a heterodimeric flagellin receptor composed of the duplicated gene products TLR5b and TLR5a. The unique heterodimeric nature of zebrafish TLR5 indicates important receptor differences between species, contributes to a deeper understanding of the activation mechanism of TLRs, and provides an illustrative example of the functional coevolution of duplicated genes.