bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of the Cellular Apoptosis Susceptibility Protein with HBV Infection in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zang Hong , Ji Dong , Shao Qing , Zhou Guang-de , Pan Deng , Xin Shao-jie , Zhao Jing-min , Chen Guo-feng
Published: June 2017

Objective The cellular apoptosis susceptibility (CAS) protein plays a regulatory role in the induction of cell death in tumor cells. The objective of this study was to investigate the association of the expression of CAS protein with HBV infection in the development of HCC.

Methods The expression level of CAS was measured with immunohistochemistry. The occurrence of HBsAg, HBeAg and HBV DNA in HCC were concurrently examined with immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization, respectively.

Results The results showed that the CAS protein was detected in 86% (43/50), 70% (7/10), 15% (3/20) and none (0/20) of livers from patients with HCC, cholangiocarcinoma, cirrhosis and hepatitis, respectively. Furthermore, the level of CAS protein was higher in poorly differentiated tumors than moderately or well differentiated HCC. Interestingly, the CAS was stained significantly stronger in HBV-infected HCC than in non-HBV infected tissues (P < 0.01).

Conclusions The expression of CAS is facilitated by HBV infection in HCC, suggesting that CAS might be a prognostic marker and a putative therapeutic target for HCC.
A Follow-up Study for Chinese Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Treated with the Combination of PEG-IFNα-2a (PEGASYS) and Ribavirin
Authors: Chen Zhu , Zeng Yi-lan , Wang Li , Hu Rong , Wang Yan , Tang Yu-zhen , Zhu Li , Wu Bei
Published: June 2017

Objective To compare the efficacy of peginterferon alfa-2a (PEGASYS) plus ribavirin (RBV) with interferon alfa-2a plus RBV, and evaluate the safety.

Methods Total of 117 patients with chronic hepatitis C were enrolled to receive either PEGASYS (135 μg or 180 μg) subcutaneously once per week, plus RBV (800 mg-1 200 mg) per day for 48 weeks (79 patients, PEGASYS group), or 5 million units of interferon alfa-2a subcutaneously every other day, plus RBV as above dosage for 48 weeks (38 patients, IFNα group).

Results Sixty-three of 79 (79.7%) patients reached sustained virological response (SVR) in PEGASYS group, while 14 of 38 (36.8%) patients reached SVR in IFNα group. PEGASYS group was associated with a higher rate of virologic response than IFNα group at week 4, 12, 36, 48 and week 72. Sustained normalization of serum ALT concentrations at week 36, 48 and week 72 was also more common in PEGASYS group than in IFNα group. Baseline levels of ALT and HCV RNA had no effect on SVR in either PEGASYS group or IFNα group. Both groups were similar in the frequency and severity of adverse events.

Conclusions PEGASYS plus RBV produced similar adverse events but higher rate of SVR. Meanwhile, complications should be prevented and treated promptly in order to increase compliances and effects.
The Diagnostic Value of Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Detecting CNS Diseases Among Advanced AIDS Patients
Authors: Zhao Fang , Sun Li-qing , Tian Yi-mei , Xu Liu-mei , Lu Pu-xuan , Tang Xian , Liu Ying-xia , Wang Hui
Published: June 2017

Objective To investigate the diagnostic value of brain magnetic resonance imaging in detecting central nervous system diseases among AIDS patients of different levels of T cells.

Methods Total of 164 AIDS patients who did not receive antiviral treatment were divided into 2 groups according to their baseline CD4+ T cell counts. Group A had CD4+ T cell below or equal to 50 cells/μl (n = 81) and group B had CD4+ T cells over 50 cells/μl (n = 83). All patients underwent brain MRI scan. Imaging analysis and the prevalence of the central nervous system disorders were compared between two groups.

Results Among them 48 cases were found of abnormal brain MRI, group A was higher than group B (35.8% vs. 22.9%) although without statistical significance (P = 0.065). Altogether 48 cases were diagnosed as AIDS related central nervous system disorders based on clinical symptoms, signs and laboratory findings. The prevalence of CNS disorders was higher in group A than in group B (41.9% vs. 16.8%) with statistical significance (P < 0.01).

Conclusions The patients with CD4+ T cell count less than or equal to 50 cells/μl had high prevalence of CNS diseases. Brain MRI plays an important role in the diagnosis and differentiation of CNS diseases in advanced AIDS patients. This study suggests patients with low CD4+ T cell count (≤ 50/μl) should routinely undergo MRI examination.
Optimization of the Spray Drying Operating Conditions for Producing the Powder Mixture of Gum Arabic and Maltodextrin
Authors: Nguyen Duc Quang , Mounir Sabah , Allaf Karim
Published: June 2017

The powder mixture of gum arabic and maltodextrin was produced by spray drying. The inlet air temperature of spray dryer was varied from 160 °C to 260 °C and the maltodextrin content was varied from 0 to 50 % in the feed solution with the concentration of 42.5 % (w/v) total solids by weight. The properties of the finished product were characterized to examine the impact of changes in these operating parameters. The results showed that: the inlet air temperature had a stronger influence on the properties of finished product than the MD/GA ratio, whereas the feed rate was more clearly affected by the MD/GA ratio. Two optimal parameters obtained include MD/GA ratio equal to 0.615 and the inlet air temperature of spray dryer Te = 258 °C.
Issues of conventional model of transfer of latent heat in soil
Authors: Sakaguchi Iwao , Mochizuki Hidetoshi , Katayama Arata , Momose Toshihiko , Fujimaki Haruyuki
Published: June 2017

Upper limit of experimental coefficient between the measured transfer of latent heat and the estimated vapour flux in the frame of the conventional model of latent heat transfer in soil was examined by analysing the measured latent heat transfer and temperature gradient in soil under steady-state temperature gradient. To exclude the temperature gradient as an uncertainty factor from the experimental coefficient, the temperature gradients of overall soil and soil pore were included into the vapour fluxes in the atmosphere. The estimated experimental coefficient did not exceed unity, which indicated that both the latent heat transfer and the vapour fluxes in the soil were smaller than those in the atmosphere. The gap that appeared between the experimental coefficient and the product of the tortuosity factor and air-filled porosity implied the existence of an unidentified parameter relevant to characteristic of the circulation of water in soil which is the main mechanism of latent heat transfer in soil. By quantifying this characteristic with simultaneous measurements of the latent heat transfer, distributions of temperature, water content and solute content in various soils under the steady-state condition, the conventional model would be modified, or an alternative model being independent of the conventional model would be developed.
Space Perception and Language Categorization
Authors: Корина Наталья
Published: June 2017

The study brings a brief view at the problem of cognitive association between the space perception and the categorization reflected in natural language from the linguistic point of view that is very close connected to the linguistic worldview and possesses the ethno-cultural specifics. The analysis is focused on the differences of the vertical and horizontal space models’ cognitive dominants in two relative Slavic languages – Russian and Slovak, and on the possible reasons of its existence. The study is devoted to the prominent Slovak philologist Viktor Krupa.
Impact of Quantitative Easing on Purchased Asset Yields, its Persistency and Overlap
Authors: Jakl Jakub
Published: June 2017

The main focus of this paper rests on the event study and SVAR analysis of quantitative easing that was initiated as a reaction to the financial crisis at the turn of 2008/2009 that finally ended in 2014. The Fed was virtually unable to continue with its conventional monetary policy regime in environment of zero-bound threshold, where there is no easy way to decrease main monetary policy rate any further. As a reaction to this limitation, the Fed started to practice quantitative easing and other unconventional measures. Event study examines changes in yields of purchased assets, namely US Treasuries, MBS and agency debt, and on two-day event window of the OIS and yield spreads quantifies imminent impact of QE announcements and relevant chairman speeches. Following VAR model and impulse-response functions, I examine the impact of QE and its persistency on purchased asset and on alternative asset classes in the framework of various transmission channels such as signalling, portfolio-balancing and liquidity channels. In this study I found non-negligible impact of QE on purchased assets in both models through all waves of QE and time persistency patterns in IRFs part. Furthermore, some evidence for portfolio-balancing channel and other related channels was found.
Diversity and uniformity of grammar: When ungrammatical expressions become grammatical
Authors: Kageyama Taro
Published: June 2017

This paper will show that what appear to be outrageous mistakes made by native speakers as well as non-native speakers have potential to contribute in non-trivial ways to deepening our understanding of language in both theoretical and practical terms when they are analyzed properly. Specifically, it is shown that the irregular or ungrammatical constructions that are ruled out by purely structural constraints postulated in generative or other formal syntax could be systematically salvaged by differentiating two different semantic functions: property (or individual-level) predications that characterize the property or attribute of a subject NP and eventive (i.e., stage-level) predications that describe events, actions, or states that unfold with the progress of time. These two types of predications, which have been considered to be semantic or pragmatic in nature, are found to have systematic reflections in syntax.
A review on energy harvesting from ocean waves by piezoelectric technology
Authors: Viet N. V , Wu N , Wang Q
Published: June 2017

Piezoelectric materials have been widely used to harvest energy from ocean waves. This review is to introduce and review the development of the technologies. First, from comparison of the three major energy conversion techniques namely electrostatic, electromagnetic and piezoelectric technologies, in terms of power generation capability, transmission efficiency, and structural installation and economic costs, the advantages of applying piezoelectric energy conversion technology are identified. Second, the review sums up different methodologies and designs of harvesting energy from ocean waves based on different piezoelectric effects. In particular, the designs and efficiencies of available harvesters based on the piezoelectric effects from longitudinal, bending, and shear couplings are introduced and discussed. Finally, the futuristic research directions and methods for improving the efficiencies of the piezoelectric harvesters are discussed profoundly in this area.
Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase deficiency caused by a novel homozygous Alu element insertion in the FBP1 gene and delayed diagnosis
Authors: Ramakrishna Somashekara Hosaagrahara , Patil Siddaramappa Jagdish , Jagadish Anusha Aladakatte , Sapare Anil Kumar , Sagar Hiremath , Kannan Subramanian
Published: June 2017

Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) enzyme deficiency is one of the treatable autosomal recessive inherited metabolic disorders. If diagnosed early, FBPase deficiency has a favorable prognosis. We report the clinical and biochemical findings of a 9.5-year-old female child with FBPase deficiency. FBPase deficiency is caused by a homozygousArthrobacter luteus (Alu)insertion in theFBP1gene, reported for the first time.
Infant mortality and causes of death by birth weight for gestational age in non-malformed singleton infants: a 2002–2012 population-based study
Authors: Premru-Srsen Tanja , Verdenik Ivan , Ponikvar Barbara Mihevc , Steblovnik Lili , Geršak Ksenija , Cerar Lilijana Kornhauser
Published: June 2017

Objective:

To explore the associations between birth weight for gestational age (GA) and infant mortality as well as causes of infant death.

Study design:

A population-based observational study conducted between 2002 and 2012 included 203,620 non-malformed singleton live births from Slovenia. Poisson regression analyses were performed to estimate the crude relative risk (RR) and adjusted RR (aRR) for infant mortality by birth weight percentiles stratified by the GA subgroups term, moderate-to-late preterm, very preterm and extremely preterm.

Results:

Compared with appropriate for GA (AGA) term infants (referent-AGA), infant mortality was significantly higher in small for GA (SGA) term infants [aRR=2.79 (1.41–5.50)], with significant cause-specific infant mortality risk for neuromuscular disorders [RR=10.48 (2.62–41.91)]. The differences in infant mortality and cause-specific infant mortality in preterm subgroups between referent-AGA and SGA were insignificant.

Conclusions:

In the Slovenian population, birth weight for GA is significantly associated with infant mortality only in infants born at term.
Charophytes in the estuarine Curonian Lagoon: Have the changes in diversity, abundance and distribution occurred since the late 1940s?
Authors: Sinkevičienė Zofija , Bučas Martynas , Ilginė Raimonda , Vaičiūtė Diana , Kataržytė Marija , Petkuvienė Jolita
Published: June 2017

The results of the recent (2014-2015) inventory and three historical datasets (1949-1959, 1960-1980 and 1997-2007) were analyzed in order to track the long-term changes of charophytes in the largest estuarine lagoon of the Baltic Sea. The present species composition of charophytes in the estuarine part of the Curonian Lagoon consisted of 7 species, including tolerant to salinity (Chara aspera, C. contraria, C. globularis and Nitellopsis obtusa) and typical brackish-water species (Chara baltica, C. canescens and Tolypella nidifica). The highest congruence of species was between the 1997-2007 and 2014-2015 datasets, which covered respectively eutrophication and post-eutrophication periods. The 1949-1959 dataset (closest to the reference conditions) differed by the absence of typical brackish-water species. The 1960-1980 dataset (the major period of eutrophication) was relatively poor in study sites and species. During the last 6 decades, only tolerant to salinity freshwater species were constant and abundant; only Nitella mucronata can be considered as extinct. Recently, C. contraria became dominant and widespread. The changes in the charophyte species composition, abundance and distribution can be explained by different intensity of surveys and/or density of study sites, but also by the increased exposure to brackish waters since 1980s and/or recently reduced effect of eutrophication.
Silica gel mediated oxidative C–O coupling of β-dicarbonyl compounds with malonyl peroxides in solvent-free conditions
Authors: Bityukov Oleg V. , Vil’ Vera A. , Merkulova Valentina M. , Nikishin Gennady I. , Terent’ev Alexander O.
Published: June 2017

For the first time silica gel was observed to activate peroxides in oxidative coupling reactions. Here we report silica gel mediated oxidative C–O coupling of β-dicarbonyl compounds with cyclic diacyl peroxides affording α-acyloxy derivatives with 100% atom efficiency. The highest yields of coupling products were achieved in solvent free conditions. C–O coupling products were prepared in yields up to 86%.
Cartographic generalization yesterday and today
Authors: Cebrykow Paweł
Published: June 2017

The author presents evolution of views on cartographic generalization since it was defined by Emil von Sydow (1866) until today. It is divided into three chapters which present the evolution of views on cartographic generalization, models of generalization and digital generalization, respectively.

Views on the topic of generalization evolved in the direction of broadening the term itself and towards a different perception of its nature. Originally generalization was understood as a process which can be performed on maps only. Now the prevailing understanding is that it begins earlier, at the conceptual stage of map making. Determination of the method of contents’ presentation is an indication of such generalization.

The character of generalization is another important aspect of the discussion on its nature. The notion of a subjective nature of generalization, expressed, among others, by Max Eckert (1921), was originally predominant. Later there also appeared different opinions, allowing its objectivization (K.A. Saliszczew 1998). This direction helped to result in automation of the process of generalization of map contents. Currently a dualism in perceiving generalization can be observed, with a strong bias towards its objective aspect.

In a separate chapter the author discusses conceptual models of generalization proposed by: L. Ratajski (1967, 1973), J. Morrison (1974), B.G. Nickerson (1988), K.E. Brassel and R. Weibel (1988), as well as R.B. McMaster and K.S. Shea (1992). They are divided into the universal models of theoretical character and those constructed for the purpose of computer automation of the process.

Attempts at digital generalization which currently develop in the context of generalization of general, and especially topographic maps, are discussed separately. Most important algorithms concerning generalization of linear objects are presented chronologically, concluding with a description of comprehensive generalization systems.

The summary presents two main conclusions. Firstly – work on generalization will continue to consider the geographical context during the process. Secondly – generalization of thematic, and especially statistical maps is the prospective direction.
The method of the spatial locating of macroscopic throats based-on the inversion of dynamic interwell connectivity
Authors: Lv Aimin , Li Xuyan , Yu Miao , Li Gangzhu , Wang Shoulong , Peng Ruigang , Zheng Yawen
Published: June 2017

This paper presents a practical technique to quantitatively locate macroscopic throats between injector/producer pairs in a reservoir, considering the problems of extensively developed macroscopic throats and the low sweep efficiency of waterflooding on high water cut stage. The method combines dynamic and static data, based on the results of geological research and the inversion of dynamic interwell connectivity. This technique has implemented the spatial locating of macroscopic throats, using the data of injection/production profiles and tracer test over the years, considering the sedimentary facies of each small layer and the permeability of each sand body. The results of this work show that this method is more convenient and less expensive than previous ones. It is able to locate macroscopic throats in a reservoir accurately and quantitatively. Multiple materials ensure the accuracy of results, and this method is convenient to be applied in the oilfield.
Composite GFRP U-Shaped Footbridge
Authors: Chróścielewski Jacek , Miśkiewicz Mikołaj , Pyrzowski Łukasz , Wilde Krzysztof
Published: June 2017

The paper presents proposals for the use of glass fiber reinforced polymer composites for the construction of engineering objects, known and commonly used in the shipbuilding industry. An example of a pedestrian footbridge was used in this case, which, despite the considerable thickness of the structural material, was made using infusion technology in one production cycle. The designed and produced footbridge span is durable, dynamically resistant, incombustible, easy to install and maintain, resistant to weather conditions and also aesthetically interesting. For footbridge production environmentally friendly PET foam core may be used. It may come from recycling of used plastic packages and which is produced with less energy consumption process and much less CO2 emission. The load bearing part of the structure (skin) is made of polymer laminate reinforced with glass fabrics (GFRP).
Possibilities of Heat Transfer Augmentation in Heat Exchangers with Minichannels for Marine Applications
Authors: Mikielewicz Dariusz , Wajs Jan
Published: June 2017

In the paper, new trends in the development of microchannel heat exchangers are presented. The exchangers developed in this way can be applied in marine industry. Main attention is focused on heat exchanger design with reduced size of passages, namely based on microchannels. In authors′ opinion, future development of high power heat exchangers will be based on networks of micro heat exchangers.
Technical Monitoring System for a New Part of Gdańsk Deepwater Container Terminal
Authors: Miśkiewicz Mikołaj , Pyrzowski Łukasz , Wilde Krzysztof , Mitrosz Oskar
Published: June 2017

Development strategy for the port of Gdańsk assumes that , up to 2027, it will become the main transport centre in the Baltic Sea region. To this end , for many years work has been carried out to facilitate access to the port both by sea and land. One of the elements of extension of the port is the building of another terminal of Deepwater Container Terminal, Gdańsk. In this task, geotechnical operations aimed at appropriate preparation of subgrade for storage of containers and operation of cranes, have been especially important. Effectiveness of the assumed design solution of land-side girder for gantry crane has been verified by means of a technical monitoring system. This paper presents main elements of design the land-side girder of a new quay of the container terminal in Gdańsk, together with its computational analysis, as well as the results collected during a few months of observation, which have revealed real work of monitored elements.
Measurement of activation cross sections of the 27Al(n,α)24Na and 27Al(n,p)27Mg reactions with quasi-monoenergetic neutrons
Authors: Zaman Muhammad , Kim Guinyun , Kim Kwangsoo , Naik Haladhara , Lee Young-Ouk , Cho Young-Sik , Lee Man Woo , Kang Yeong-Rok
Published: June 2017

The cross sections of the 27Al(n,α)24Na and 27Al(n,p)27Mg reactions with the average neutron energies of 15.2, 26.4, and 37.2 MeV were measured using the activation and off-line γ−ray spectrometric technique at the Korean Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences (KIRAMS), Korea. Quasi-monoenergetic neutrons produced via the 9Be(p,n) reaction with the proton beam energies of 25, 35, and 45 MeV from the MC50 cyclotron of KIRAMS were used. The present measured values were compared with those from the evaluated nuclear data libraries ENDF/B-VII, TENDL-2015, TALYS 1.8, and from literature. In general, a close agreement with the literature data as well as the evaluated data was found.
The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) therapy – a perspective on cell biological mechanisms
Authors: Tang Bor Luen
Published: June 2017

Recent clinical trials of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation have demonstrated procedural safety and clinical proof of principle with a modest indication of benefit in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While replacement therapy remained unrealistic, the clinical efficacy of this therapeutic option could be potentially enhanced if we could better decipher the mechanisms underlying some of the beneficial effects of transplanted cells, and work toward augmenting or combining these in a strategic manner. Novel ways whereby MSCs could act in modifying disease progression should also be explored. In this review, I discuss the known, emerging and postulated mechanisms of action underlying effects that transplanted MSCs may exert to promote motor neuron survival and/or to encourage regeneration in ALS. I shall also speculate on how transplanted cells may alter the diseased environment so as to minimize non-neuron cell autonomous damages by immune cells and astrocytes.
The Efficiency of the Banking System in Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) 2000–2009
Authors: Sarsour Shaker , Daoud Yousef
Published: June 2017

This study estimates the cost (technical) efficiency of the banking system in Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), using a panel of 18 banks during the period 2000–2009. Estimates have been obtained using the stochastic frontier approach. The analyses were extended to cover bank ownership (foreign and local), type (Islamic and commercial) and bank size. Results indicate that the overall cost (technical) efficiency of banks in the OPT is declining during the period of research. The mean of cost and technical efficiency was found to deteriorate through the years. Cost efficiency declined from 0.730 in 2000 to 0.666 in 2009, while technical efficiency declined from 0.733 to 0.713 during the same period. Moreover, the lower allocative efficiency (incorrect input mix rather than utilization or wasting resources) is the main cause of the decline in cost efficiency over the period of analysis. In addition, large banks have lower cost efficiency, which indicates the presence of diseconomies of scale for banks in OPT.
Towards Understanding Vegetables Consumption Behaviour in Iran: A Full Box-Cox Double-Hurdle Application
Authors: Balli Hatice Ozer , Kouhbor Mohammad Amin , Jean Louis Rosmy
Published: June 2017

Using Iran’s 2010–2011 household survey data on income and expenditure, this paper estimates the demand for vegetable consumption. Based on the Vuong’s (1989) Likelihood Ratio Test for Model Selection and Non-Nested Hypothesis, a full Box-Cox double-hurdle model adjusted for heteroskedasticity, dependency, and normality was estimated to uncover factors underlying Iranian households’ decisions to purchase and consume vegetables. Results show that all demographic, socioeconomic, and geographical variables significantly explain vegetable consumption behaviour in Iran. A positive relationship exists between educational attainment and the decision to purchase and consume vegetables. As well, households’ size and average age exert a statistically significant positive effect on vegetable consumption.
Taxing Interest on Deposits: Theoretical and Empirical Analysis for the Case of Lebanon
Authors: Azar Samih Antoine
Published: June 2017

In most countries, taxes on interest income are subsumed under the general income tax structure. In Lebanon, there is a departure from such a policy, and these taxes are not imposed as part of taxable income but are levied at source on interest from deposits at commercial banks. As a result, this necessitates the derivation of a theoretical model on the subject of this tax that must be applicable to Lebanon. This is the first intent of this paper. As such, the paper develops a model that attempts to maximize the tax revenue from a given tax rate and to minimize the deadweight loss from this tax. From this theory, the relevant parameters that affect the optimal tax rate are found to be the interest rate elasticities of deposit supply and demand. Assuming, as the case for Lebanon indicates, that the interest elasticity of demand for deposits is infinite, and conditioning on other exogenous variables, the own and cross interest elasticities of deposit supply are estimated by advanced econometric techniques. The results show that the optimal tax rates differ markedly for the two denominations of deposits, the one in Lebanese pounds and the one in foreign currency. The optimal tax rate is higher for the latter, and both rates are much higher than the actual rate, or even the proposed rate. The paper concludes that, although tax authorities in Lebanon can theoretically raise substantially the tax rate in order to increase tax revenues, other economic and political considerations limit to a large degree the liberty of implementing such a raise.
Saussure and the psychic
Authors: Cooper Elliot
Published: June 2017

Saussure’s mid-career involvement in psychologist Theodore Flournoy’s study of the renowned psychic Catherine Elise Müller (alias Hélène Smith) brought him into contact with imaginary languages. Flournoy asked Saussure to see what he could make of some transcriptions of Müller’s trance induced speech, which she had claimed was in Sanskrit or the language of the inhabitants of Mars. Saussure assisted Flournoy in his research from 1896 to 1899 looking for linguistic qualities of Müller’s strange utterances. In doing so found support for Flournoy’s theory of teleological automatism, a process in which unconsciously stored information could be recalled for the purpose of manifesting so-called psychic phenomena. While this episode of Saussure’s career has often been treated as a peculiarity, it is also worth considering points of continuity between Saussure’s analyses of Müller’s glossolalia and the rest of his career. In this essay I will discuss how several of the psychological underpinnings of major concepts expressed in the Cours de linguistique générale found exercise and elaboration as Saussure considered the problem of how Müller assembled her mysterious utterances.
The Evaluation of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors in Renal Elimination with Selected Molecular Descriptors
Authors: Trbojevic Jovana , Odovic Jadranka , Trbojevic-Stankovic Jasna , Stojimirovic Biljana , Jelic Ratomir
Published: June 2017

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors modulate the function of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and they are commonly prescribed antihypertensive drugs especially in patients with renal failure. In this study, the relationships between several molecular properties of eight ACE inhibitors (enalapril, quinapril, fosinopril, ramipril, benazepril, perindopril, moexipril, trandolapril) and their renal elimination data, from relevant literature, were investigated. The ’molecular descriptors of the ACE inhibitors, which included aqueous solubility data (logS); an electronic descriptor, polar surface area (PSA);, a constitutional parameter, molecular mass (Mr); and a geometric descriptor, volume value (Vol), as well as lipophilicity descriptors (logP values), were calculated using different software packages. Simple linear regression analysis showed the best correlation between renal elimination data and lipophilicity descriptor AClogP values (R2 = 0.5742). In the next stage of the study, multiple linear regression was applied to assess a higher correlation between the ACE inhibitors’ renal elimination data and lipophilicity, AClogP, with one additional descriptor as an independent variable. Good correlations were established between renal elimination data from the literature and the AClogP lipophilicity descriptor using the constitutional parameter (molecular mass (R2 = 0.7425)) or the geometric descriptor (volume value (R2 = 0.7224)) as an independent variable. The application of computed molecular descriptors in evaluating drug elimination is of great importance in drug research.
The Artist as a Contemporary Pattern of Masculinity. Milieu-specific Strategies of Coping with Precariousness
Authors: Speck Sarah
Published: June 2017

Based on a qualitative study on heterosexual female breadwinner couples, this article investigates milieu-specific coping strategies vis-à-vis conditions of precariousness and insecure employment. Against the background of the decline of the male breadwinner model, the study especially focuses on the transformations of masculinity. The article develops the thesis that an “artistic” self-image functions as a specific coping mechanism in the individualized milieu of the educated urban upper middle class.
From the Periphery to the International Scene. Artistic Trajectories in the Trial of Mobility
Authors: Moroni Isabelle
Published: June 2017

Geographical mobility has become a norm of contemporary art. This article examines the spatial dynamics of artists as they face the challenges presented by peripheral territory in visual arts, putting their mobility and flexibility to the test. Whether staying anchored in a geographical area or moving abroad depends on the dominant scheme within the world of art. The globalization of contemporary art promotes the formation and recognition of “hypermobile” artists, but it can also lead to local strategies of withdrawal.
“You’re Not a Real Contemporary Dancer.” Discrepancy and Appropriation of the Artists’ Status by Dancers from a Working Class Background
Authors: Sorignet Pierre-Emmanuel
Published: June 2017

This article draws on a long-term ethnographical survey. It aims to discuss the social conditions of possibility in the artistic calling of contemporary dancers from working class backgrounds. In this regard, it shades light on the resources – notably cultural – underlying atypical trajectories of mobility – all the more fragile for being reversible. As will be seen, the acquisition of legitimate cultural capital contributes to change aesthetic tastes without excluding discrepancy, most evident during the creative process.
Brückners Höflichkeitskonzept (1916): Linguistik oder Ideologie?
Authors: Warditz Vladislava
Published: June 2017

The paper presents the Polish study Ty-wy-pan. Kartka z dziejów próżności ludzkiej (‘You (singular)–you (plural)–Lord. An overview on the history of the people’s vanity’, 1916) by Alexander Brückner from a linguistic-pragmatical as well as ideological point of view. In his pioneer study on politeness, the German-Polish slavist Brückner (1856–1939) critically reflects on the current system of Polish addresses and titles, especially in relating to the soon-to-be refoundation of the Second Polish Republic (1918). The paper analyzes how his linguistic description and his ideas for reformation of the Polish addressative system are pragmatically justified and how they are ideologically motivated. Furthermore, the paper reconstructs the status of Brückner’s concept of politeness in the context of current studies on Polish pragmatics.
Characterization of electrochemical flow cell configurations with implemented disposable electrodes for the direct coupling to mass spectrometry
Authors: Herl Thomas , Matysik Frank-Michael
Published: June 2017

The characterization of the redox behavior of analytes is a very important aspect for many applications. Pure
electrochemical approaches can provide useful information on electroactive species, but are of limited use regarding the
identification of generated species. The hyphenation of electrochemistry and mass spectrometry (EC-MS) is a powerful
method to investigate redox systems. In the present work, we show a simple approach to on-line EC-MS based on the
application of electrochemical flow cells with implemented disposable electrodes. They are connected to electrospray
ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) via fused silica capillary tubing. The modularity of the flow cells offers a high
flexibility of experimental setup and settings, so that a fast detection of oxidation or reduction products can be
achieved. The usage of disposable electrodes guarantees a high level of quality assurance for EC-MS measurements.
Toward understanding non-coding RNA roles in intracranial aneurysms and subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Huang Fengzhen , Yi Jiping , Zhou Tieqiao , Gong Xiaoxiang , Jiang Hong , Yao Xiaoxi
Published: June 2017

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a common and frequently life-threatening cerebrovascular disease, which is mostly related with a ruptured intracranial aneurysm. Its complications include rebleeding, early brain injury, cerebral vasospasm, delayed cerebral ischemia, chronic hydrocephalus, and also non neurological problems. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), comprising of microRNAs (miRNAs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), play an important role in intracranial aneurysms and SAH. Here, we review the non-coding RNAs expression profile and their related mechanisms in intracranial aneurysms and SAH. Moreover, we suggest that these non-coding RNAs function as novel molecular biomarkers to predict intracranial aneurysms and SAH, and may yield new therapies after SAH in the future.
Hydrogen mixture with gasoline for conventional motorcycles and effect on mass flow rate, brake thermal efficiency and emissions
Authors: Razali H. , Sopian K. , Mat S. , Mansor M.R.A. , Amon N.
Published: May 2017

The fossil fuel price crisis and emissions control in the transportation sector in Malaysia have become national issues, especially in the transportation sector. As an alternative, using hydrogen mixed with gasoline fuel in conventional combustion engines is a very effective way of improving engine performance and emission control. Generating hydrogen via a chemical reaction between hydrochloric acid and aluminium is a new approach in this study. This methodology has been tested through the mixture application (G + H2) in 10-year-old motorcycles (gasoline) with a modified conventional carburettor engine. The testing of engine performance by chassis dynamometer was done at three levels of experiments: L0: 0 Amp load, L1: 1 Amp load, and L2: 2 Amp load for different engine performances, particularly in identifying quality improvements through the brake thermal efficiency. The study found that the average increase in brake thermal efficiency was 23% higher in the (G + H2) engine compared to gasoline only. The results of this study have proven that the use of hydrogen (Al + HCl) in the stoichiometric ratio has helped to increase combustion efficiency, especially when the oxygen content in the fuel mixture ratio is not adequate during the stroke of power. The successful reduction in fuel consumption, increased engine performance, reduction of pollution and the system’s ability to meet the basic needs of the internal combustion engine cycle can be beneficial to the development of the automotive industry, particularly in the transport sector.
Propagation and scattering of guided waves in composite plates with defects
Authors: Murat Bibi I. S. , Fromme P.
Published: May 2017

Failure in aerospace composites owing to low-velocity impact raises a significant maintenance concern because it can lead to invisible damage. For the aerospace industry, such defects pose a potential danger to the structural integrity of aircraft. This in turn jeopardises passenger safety and incurs high repair costs. Hence, it is important to efficiently monitor composite structures during the service life. In this study, the potential of low-frequency guided ultrasonic waves for health monitoring in laminated composite plates is investigated. This study focuses on the use of the first antisymmetric guided wave mode (A0). The first part of this study is to investigate the propagation of the A0 mode in three different undamaged composite plates experimentally. The dispersive and anisotropic behaviour are in agreement with the results of finite element simulations and semi-analytical analysis. The final part of this study presents the scattering of guided waves at the impact damage using a non-contact laser interferometer. Significant scattering activities were observed and the impact damage size can be estimated to be about 10 × 25 mm. In conclusion, these results demonstrate the potential of guided ultrasonic waves for the inspection of aerospace composite structures.
Mechanical properties and microstructures of steel panels for laminated composites in armoured vehicles
Authors: Jamil W.N.M. , Aripin M.A. , Sajuri Z. , Abdullah S. , Omar M.Z. , Abdullah M.F. , Zamri W.F.H.
Published: May 2017

This paper present the study about the mechanical properties of two high strength low alloy steels for replacing the current rolled homogeneous armour (RHA) for ballistic application. High strength low alloy steel has been widely adapted as a ballistic plate in light armoured vehicle. However, the current used RHA plate is very heavy thus restricted the manoeuvrability of the armoured vehicle. The aim of this study is to find materials suitable to be used for production of composite protection panel which is lighter yet has similar mechanical properties to RHA. The tensile strength and hardness of AISI 4340 and AR500 steels were evaluated and compared to that of RHA and the results were analysed based on its chemical compositions and microstructural observation. Values of these properties are primarily reflected by its microstructures and chemical compositions. Therefore, microscopic observation of microstructural arrangement and phases are essential in understanding the hardness and stress-strain behaviour of these metals. Results indicate similar tensile properties were observed in RHA and AR500 but different properties obtained for AISI 4340. Tensile strength of RHA and AR500 were 1750 MPa and 1740 MPa respectively followed by AISI 4340 at 1020 MPa. AISI 4340 steel exhibited the highest elongation at 20.6% compared to RHA and AR500 at 13.3 and 12.5%, respectively. Higher degree of carbon content in fine martensitic structure of RHA and AR500 led to high hardness. Imperfections in RHA and AR500 were also removed by hot rolling process as indicated by white banding that cause higher in tensile strength. Retained austenite and coarse microstructure of AISI 4340 steel contributed to higher ductility compared to AR500 and RHA. Therefore the tensile properties of RHA and AR500 were found similar due to its microstructure behaviour. This similarity allows AR500 to be utilised as alternatives to RHA in armour plate application.
Mechanical properties of betel nut and glass fibre reinforced hybrid polyethylene composites
Authors: Haque M. Merajul , Hasan Mahbub
Published: May 2017

This paper describes an investigation done on the mechanical properties of betel nut–glass fibre reinforced hybrid polyethylene composites by varying the fibre loading and ratio. By using the hot press method with four levels of fibre loading (5, 10, 15 and 20 wt%), different composites were manufactured. For the 20 wt% fibre-loaded composites, the fibre ratio was also varied (betel nut:glass = 1:1, 3:1 and 1:3). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) analysis and tensile, flexural and hardness tests were conducted for the characterisation of the composites. The FTIR analysis indicated the presence of hemicelluloses, lignin and moisture content in the prepared composites, which are liable to decrease tensile strength. As a result, the tensile strength decreased but Young’s modulus increased with fibre loading. On the other hand, flexural strength, flexural modulus and hardness increased with fibre loading. SEM analysis revealed the morphological characteristics of the fibre–polyethylene matrix. Above all, the composite containing 20 wt% fibre at a 1:3 ratio of betel nut and glass showed the highest mechanical properties (tensile, flexural and hardness).
The effect of injection timing on the performance and emission of direct injection CI engine running on diethyl ether-diesel blends
Authors: Patil K.R. , Thipse S.S. , Thipse S.S.
Published: May 2017

In diesel engine, fuel injection timing is a major parameter that affects combustion, performance and emission characteristics. Variation in injection timing has a strong effect on BTE, BSFC, BSEC, smoke and NOx emissions because of the change in maximum pressure and temperature in engine cylinder. In this experimental investigation, the optimum performance DEE-diesel blend ratio DE15D (15% DEE and 85% diesel by volume) was tested for variable injection timings to evaluate its effect and determine the optimum fuel injection timing, as the addition of DEE to diesel fuel causes retardation in dynamic injection timing. The engine tests were carried out at 10%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of full load with 3º and 6º advancement, base and 3º and 7º retarded injection timings. The test results show that BSFC and BSEC provide the best result for the base injection timing at full load condition. The 6º advancement in injection timing at full load condition reduced smoke by 12.5% and HC by 15.38%. The retarded injection timing by 7º at full load showed improvement in BTE by 7.96% and in NOx by 3.66%.
Model Data Mining sebagai Prediksi Penyakit Hipertensi Kehamilan dengan Teknik Decision Tree
Authors: Muzakir Ari , Wulandari Rika Anisa
Published: June 2017

Prevalensi hipertensi pada wanita hamil terjadi sebanyak 1.062 kasus (12,7%). Dari 1062 kasus ibu hamil dengan hipertensi, ditemukan 125 kasus (11,8%) yang telah didiagnosis dengan hipertensi oleh tenaga kesehatan. RSIA YK Madira Palembang sebagai pusat kesehatan harus mengembangkan metode yang dapat memprediksi risiko tinggi ibu hamil dengan hipertensi dari data hasil pemeriksaan kehamilan. Dengan memanfaatkan sumber data yang terdiri dari data perawatan antenatal, diterapkan teknik data mining dengan algoritma decision tree C4.5, berdasarkan Knowledge Discovery in Database (KDD). Sehingga akan ditemukan pengetahuan, informasi, dan pola tersembunyi dari data pelayanan antenatal, yang merupakan prediksi hipertensi pada kehamilan. Metode yang digunakan yaitu Algoritma C4.5. Setelah mendapatkan decision tree dan rules yang dapat memprediksi penyakit hipertensi dalam kehamilan, dilakukan evaluasi dengan supplied test set menggunakan WEKA dihasilkan kesalahan (error) 7.3427% dan tingkat akurasi 92.6573%. Data training yang berjumlah 286 instances, hal ini menunjukkan bahwa terdapat 265 instances yang akurat dan 21 instances yang error atau prediksinya salah.
Information and Analysis System Stages of Family Welfare in District Balong
Authors: Ayu Eka Arynda , Widaningrum Ida
Published: June 2017

Badan Kependudukan dan Keluarga Berencana Nasional (BKKBN) is a family that formed due to legal marriage, is able to meet the needs of the spiritual and the material that is decent, devoted to God Almighty, have a relationship that is harmonious and balanced between members and between families with the community and the environment. Every year the government to collect data on the status of a prosperous family stage where the purpose of the data collection is in the framework of development and poverty alleviation programs. Data collection process in the District Balong is still done manually so that the risk of error in determining the status of a family stage could happen. Information and analysis system of status stages of family welfare is designed to make web-based officers in the input data and determine the status of a prosperous family stages based on selected indicators of the sheet R/1/KS. Sample of data from Bulukidul village and sub-district village of Balong Ngraket 2014. Results of the system in the form of data reports the results of process steps and the results can be viewed in graphical form. Comparison chart to show the status of the highest percentage of poor welfare families stages. Instead lowest percentage shows the stages of a prosperous family able or rich.