bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil-meteorological measurements at ICOS monitoring stations in terrestrial ecosystems
Authors: de Beeck Maarten Op , Gielen Bert , Merbold Lutz , Ayres Edward , Serrano-Ortiz Penelope , Acosta Manuel , Pavelka Marian , Montagnani Leonardo , Nilsson Mats , Klemedtsson Leif , Vincke Caroline , De Ligne Anne , Moureaux Christine , Marańon-Jimenez Sara , Saunders Matthew , Mereu Simone , Hörtnagl Lukas
Published: December 2018

The Integrated Carbon Observation System is a pan-European research infrastructure providing standardized, long-term observations of greenhouse gas concentrations and earth-atmosphere greenhouse gas interactions. The terrestrial component of Integrated Carbon Observation System comprises a network of monitoring stations in terrestrial ecosystems where the principal activity is the measurement of ecosystem-atmosphere fluxes of greenhouse gases and energy by means of the eddy covariance technique. At each station a large set of ancillary variables needed for the interpretation of observed fluxes and for process studies is additionally monitored. This set includes a subset of variables that describe the thermal and moisture conditions of the soil and which are here conveniently referred to as soil-meteorological variables: soil temperature, volumetric soil water content, water table depth, and soil heat flux density. This paper describes the standard methodology that has been developped for the monitoring of these variables at the ecosystem stations.
Standardized precipitation measurements within ICOS: rain, snowfall and snow depth: a review
Authors: Dengel Sigrid , Graf Alexander , Grünwald Thomas , Hehn Markus , Kolari Pasi , Löfvenius Mikaell Ottosson , Merbold Lutz , Nicolini Giacomo , Pavelka Marian
Published: December 2018

Precipitation is one of the most important abiotic variables related to plant growth. Using standardised measurements improves the comparability and quality of precipitation data as well as all other data within the Integrated Carbon Observation System network. Despite the spatial and temporal variation of some types of precipitation, a single point measurement satisfies the requirement as an ancillary variable for eddy covariance measurements. Here the term precipitation includes: rain, snowfall (liquid water equivalent) and snow depth, with the latter two being of interest only where occurring. Weighing gauges defined as Integrated Carbon Observation System standard with the capacity of continuously measuring liquid and solid precipitation are installed free-standing, away from obstacles obstructing rain or snowfall. In order to minimise wind-induced errors, gauges are shielded either naturally or artificially to reduce the adverse effect of wind speed on the measurements. Following standardised methods strengthens the compatibility and comparability of data with other standardised environmental observation networks while opening the possibility for synthesis studies of different precipitation measurement methodologies and types including a wide range of ecosystems and geolocations across Europe.
Safety and efficacy of two starting doses of vandetanib in advanced medullary thyroid cancer
Authors: Hu Mimi I , Elisei Rossella , Dedecjus Marek , Popovtzer Aron , Druce Maralyn , Kapiteijn Ellen , Pacini Furio , Locati Laura , Krajewska Jolanta , Weiss Richard , Gagel Robert F
Published: December 2018

Vandetanib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for treatment of advanced symptomatic or progressive medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). The current study (Nbib1496313) evaluated the benefit–risk of two starting doses of vandetanib in patients with symptomatic or progressive MTC. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive vandetanib 150 or 300 mg daily and followed for a maximum of 14 months (Part A), with the option to then enter an open-label phase (Part B) investigating vandetanib 100, 150, 200 and 300 mg daily doses. Efficacy was assessed in Part A, and safety and tolerability during Parts A and B up to 2 years post randomization. Eighty-one patients were randomized in Part A and 61 patients entered Part B, of whom 37 (60.7%) received 2 years of treatment. Overall, 25% of patients experienced an objective response (OR) at 14 months (OR rate, 0.29 (95% CI, 0.176–0.445) for 300 mg, and 0.20 (95% CI, 0.105–0.348) for 150 mg; one-sided P value approximately 0.43). The most common adverse events (AEs) included diarrhea, hypocalcemia, asthenia, QTc prolongation, hypokalemia and keratopathy, all at generally higher incidence with 300 vs 150 mg (Part A). Part B safety and tolerability was consistent with Part A. OR was observed with both vandetanib doses; the 300 mg dose showed a more favorable trend vs 150 mg as initial dose. Thus, for most patients, 300 mg vandetanib is the most appropriate starting dose; dose reductions to manage AEs and lower initial doses for patients with particular comorbidities can be considered.
Understanding Iron Deficiency in Heart Failure: Clinical Significance and Management
Authors: Santhanakrishnan Rajalakshmi ,   Biomedical Science Program, College of Science and Mathematics, Wright State University, Dayton, OH
Published: December 2018

Iron deficiency (ID) has been increasingly recognized as an important co-morbidity associated with heart failure (HF). ID significantly impairs exercise tolerance and is an independent predictor of poor outcomes in people with HF irrespective of their anemic status. Diagnosis of ID in people with HF is often missed and therefore routine screening for ID is necessary for these patients. IV iron repletion has been recommended in HF treatment guidelines to improve symptoms and exercise capacity. People with ID and HF who are treated with IV iron have an improved quality of life, better 6-minute walk test results and New York Heart Association functional class. The effect of iron therapy on re-hospitalization and mortality rates in people with HF remains unclear. Large-dose oral iron treatment has been found to be ineffective in improving symptoms in people with HF. This review summarizes the current knowledge on prevalence, clinical relevance, and the molecular mechanism of ID in patients with chronic HF and the available evidence for the use of parenteral iron therapy.
Influence of meteorological factors on the day of birth on the number of births in Barnaul
Authors: Fedorova O. I. , Lastochkina Ya. V. , Maltseva A. E
Published: December 2018

The theories developed to explain the beginning of labor are usually considered outside the possible exogenous influence. In the literature, there are prerequisites for the study of the impact of meteorological factors on the initiation of delivery. The paper presents data on the dependence of the birth rate on meteorological environmental factors (atmospheric pressure, its gradient, temperature and humidity, wind speed) in a temperate continental climate of Western Siberia (Barnaul). The data recorded during 1998 (1,154 data) and within the climatic seasons are analyzed. For the purpose of verification of the received regularities, the repeated analysis is carried out on the material of data of 2014 (2145 data) on the basis that unlike a number of years which divided 1998 and 2014, environmental factors were the closest and typical for Barnaul climate. Conclusions were made on the results of the two replications based on these 1998 and 2014. With the help of dispersion analysis, it is shown that the key factor affecting the rate of delivery is the daily drop in atmospheric pressure in the direction of its reduction. Peculiarities of influence of meteorological factors on the frequency of births in different climatic seasons of the year. In particular, it was found that in the winter climatic period the number of births is most affected by meteorological factors, which include air temperature, atmospheric pressure, baric trend, air humidity. Possible mechanisms of observed phenomena are analyzed. It is assumed that one of the possible mechanisms of influence on the initiation of labor can be stressful corticotrophin-releasing secretion of hypothalamic factors, which, connected to the placental hormone, which is considered the "molecular clock" of pregnancy, its concentration increases and exceeds a certain threshold acts as a trigger to run the process of delivery ( Stefano et al., 2015). The second, the most probable factor influencing childbirth may be short-term changes in atmospheric pressure: it is possible the direct mechanical action of external barometric shifts on the volume of internal closed air-containing cavities, in particular, gas bubbles in the intestine, the swelling of which, when the atmospheric pressure decreases, can increase the pressure in the fetal bubble.
Constitutional features of females with different types of obesity
Authors: Filatova O. , Polovinkin S. , Baklanova E. , Plyasova I. , Burtsev Yu.
Published: December 2018

We investigated 214 females aged 35-73 years. We divided them into groups of reproductive and menopausal age. We used methods of anthropometry and bioimpedanceometry. We performed somatotyping according to the schemes of Rees-Eisenck, Tanner. The proportion of obese individuals significantly increased in the menopausal period. The body mass index was higher in the group of menopausal females with android obesity. The higher body weight in the same group was caused by the higher fat mass of the body in both absolute and relative magnitudes. The index of normalized basal metabolism based on bioimpedanceometry was lower in women with android obesity. The groups studied did not differ in the proportion of somatotypes according to the Tanner classification. The percentage of pyknic bodies was higher in females with android obesity. The trend of obesity risk in pyknics was 1.5 times higher (p = 0.182). The risk of developing android obesity in pyknics was higher by 4.7 times (p <0.001).

 
Prospects for studying and preserving the biodiversity of the Altai-Sayan ecoregion in the context of the development of open databases
Authors: Vaganov A. V.
Published: December 2018

The Altai-Sayan mountainous country is the highest elevation among the mountain countries of Northern Asia. Altai in terms of the species number is three times richer than Western Siberia. The biological diversity of the Altai-Sayan ecological region (ASER) has been explored by scientists of the Altai State University (Barnaul) for more than 30 years. Since 2008, the process of developing and creating a set of open access databases of the ASER biological diversity on the Internet has been launched. The article provides information on the most popular databases. In 2017 the process of promulgation and creation of datasets based on GBIF was started.
The Parametrization of the Cauchy Problem for Nonlinear Differential Equations with Contrast Structures
Authors: Kuznetsov Evgenii B. , Leonov Sergey S. , Tsapko Ekaterina D.
Published: December 2018

Introduction. The paper provides an analysis of numerical methods for solving the Cauchy problem for nonlinear ordinary differential equations with contrast structures (interior layers). Similar equations simulate various applied problems of hydro- and aeromechanics, chemical kinetics, the theory of catalytic reactions, etc. An analytical solution to these problems is rarely obtained, and numerical procedure is related with significant difficulties associated with ill-conditionality in the neighborhoods of the boundary and interior layers. The aim of the paper is the scope analysis of traditional numerical methods for solving this class problems and approbation of alternative solution methods.
Materials and methods. The traditional explicit Euler and fourth-order Runge-Kutta methods, as well as the implicit Euler method with constant and variable step sizes are used for the numerical solution of the Cauchy problem. The method of solution continuation with respect to the best argument is suggested as an alternative to use. The solution continuation method consists in replacing the original argument of the problem with a new one, measured along the integral curve of the problem. The transformation to the best argument allows obtaining the best conditioned Cauchy problem.
Results. The computational difficulties arising when solving the equations with contrast structures by traditional explicit and implicit methods are shown on the example of the test problem solution. These difficulties are expressed in a significant decrease of the step size in the neighborhood of the boundary and interior layers. It leads to the increase of the computational time, as well as to the complication of the solving process for super stiff problems. The authenticity of the obtained results is confirmed by the comparison with the analytical solution and the works of other authors.
Conclusions. The results of the computational experiment demonstrate the applicability of the traditional methods for solving the Cauchy problem for equations with contrast structures only at low stiffness. In other cases these methods are ineffective. It is shown that the method of solution continuation with respect to the best argument allows eliminating most of the disadvantages inherent to the original problem. It is reflected in decreasing the computational time and in increasing the solution accuracy.

Keywords: contrast structures, method of solution continuation, the best argument, illconditionality, the Cauchy problem, ordinary differential equation

For citation: Kuznetsov E. B., Leonov S. S., Tsapko E. D. The Parametrization of the Cauchy Problem for Nonlinear Differential Equations with Contrast Structures. Vestnik Mordovskogo universiteta = Mordovia University Bulletin. 2018; 28(4):486–510. DOI: https://doi.org/10.15507/0236-2910.028.201804.486-510

Acknowledgements: This work was supported by the Russian Science Foundation, project no. 18-19-00474.
Automated Unit for Magnetic-Pulse Processing of Plants in Horticulture
Authors: Smirnov Igor G. , Khort Dmitriy O. , Filippov Rostislav A. , Kutyrev Alexey I. , Artiushin Anatoly A.
Published: December 2018

Introduction. The current level of agricultural production, including horticulture, is determined by intelligent machine technologies and new generation technical means with modern information and instrument support. The implementation of digital intelligent agricultural technologies in industrial gardening requires a fundamental change in the paradigm of technical support, based on the development and application of new automatic and unmanned machines, equipment and software for managing work processes of machines, navigating technical means, controlling the implementation of technological operations, monitoring the yield of agricultural crops, analyzing diseases and pests on plants and other technological functions.
Materials and Methods. 3D model is visualized in the computer-aided design “KOMPAS-3D” through using the methods of mathematical modeling, theoretical mechanics and optimal design. A prototype of an automated unit for magnetic pulse processing of plants is made. The program code for calculating the required movement of the actuator rod is developed in the Sublime Text editor. C++programming language was used. The functionality of the computer program is related to the capabilities of controllers STM32, Arduino Mega/ Uno/Nano. Nextion 2.4 (the TFT screen 320x240) for the graphical output and interaction was used.
Results. An automated unit with the algorithm of the drive control system of working bodies were developed during the technological operation of magnetic pulse processing of plants, taking into account the agro-technological parameters of garden plantations. A computer program with both automat and remote control was designed for driving the working bodies.
Conclusions. The unit allows introducing a new environmentally safe technological method of stimulating vital and growth processes of fruit crops. This device provides the most efficient operation through automatic adjustment to various agro-technological parameters of plantings, providing the required value of magnetic induction in the working area on plant objects in the field.

Keywords: magnetic pulse processing, control system, automated unit, irradiation of plants, gardening, low-frequency magnetic field

For citation: Smirnov I. G., Khort D. O., Filippov R. A., Kutyrev A. I., Artiushin A. A. Automated Unit for Magnetic-Pulse Processing of Plants in Horticulture. Vestnik Mordovskogo universiteta = Mordovia University Bulletin. 2018; 28(4):624–642. DOI: https://doi.org/10.15507/0236-2910.028.201804.624-642
Peri-Implantitis and Peri-Implant Mucositis Case Definitions in Dental Research: A Systematic Assessment
Authors: Natto Zuhair S. , Almeganni Nouf , Alnakeeb Elaf , Bukhari Zuhor , Jan Roaa , Iacono Vincent J.
Published: December 2018

The aim of this review was to determine the most common peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis case definitions used worldwide in the implant dentistry literature. A systematic assessment of peri-implant disease classification was conducted using all publications in MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar between 1994 and November 2017. Screening of eligible studies and data extraction were conducted in duplicate and independently by 2 reviewers. The search protocol identified 3049 unique articles, of which 2784 were excluded based on title and abstract. In total, 265 full texts were screened, 106 of which met the eligibility criteria. Of these, 41 defined peri-implant mucositis. Eight (19.6%) used bleeding on probing (BOP) only; 8 (19.6.7%) used a combination of probing depth (PD), BOP, and radiograph; and 5 (12.3%) used PD and BOP. Cases with crestal bone loss of ≤2 mm in the first year and ≤0.2 mm in each subsequent year were considered as peri-implant mucositis. Ninety-three articles defined peri-implantitis; 28 (30.1%) used a combination of PD with suppuration, BOP, and radiograph, followed by 25 (26.9%) using a combination of PD, BOP, and radiograph. The main criteria in most of the studies were considered to be BOP, PD, and radiograph. Cases of crestal bone loss of ≥2 mm and PD ≥3 mm are considered peri-implantitis. Different peri-implant disease case definitions may affect disease prevalence and treatment strategies. We need to standardize case definitions to avoid discrepancies in case diagnosis and prognosis.
INFLUENCE OF CYCLOFERON ON THE CELLULAR SUSCEPTIBILITY TO INTERFERON-α2 IN VITRO IN PATIENTS WITH INFECTIOUS MONONUCLEOSIS CAUSED BY EPSTEIN– BARR VIRUS
Authors: Kurtasova L. M. , Shakina N. A. , Smidt A. R. , Ikkes L. A.
Published: December 2018

Our aim was to study the effect of cycloferon on in vitro susceptibility of peripheral blood leukocytes to interferon-α2 in children with infectious mononucleosis in acute phase caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).

 Materials and methods were as follows: the study included 23 children 4 to 6 years of age admitted in acute period of infectious mononucleosis. The control group consisted of 15 healthy children of the same age group. In vitro susceptibility of peripheral blood leukocytes to interferon-α2 was determined by the method of L.M. Kurtasova (2007).Four types of in vitro response of peripheral blood leukocytes to interferon-α2 upon induction by cycloferon have been revealed in both healthy children and patients with EBV-positive infectious mononucleosis. Differences in occurrence rates of these 4 types of reactions have been found among patients with EBVinfection, in comparison with the group of healthy children. There was no regular dose-dependent changes in susceptibility of peripheral blood  leukocytes to interferon-α2 in vitro after cycloferon induction in the group of children with EBV-infection. depending on the dose, which have been revealed in healthy children.
SOLUBLE ADHESION MOLECULES IN CHILDREN WITH HEMOLYTIC UREMIC SYNDROME
Authors: Pankratenko T. E. , Moskalets O. V. , Abaseeva T. Yu.
Published: December 2018

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrom (aHUS) is a rare severe life-threatening form of thrombotic microangiopathy. aHUS is thought to be primarily mediated by dysfunctional complement regulation, due to mutations or genetic rearrangement of the complement components, or regulatory factors, as well as autoantibody production to the complement factors. These alterations promote uncontrolled complement activation by the alternative pathway on the surface of endothelial cells, followed by endothelial dysfunction, microthrombosis and organ damage, especially, renal pathology. Many studies showed that the biomarkers of endothelial activation/dysfunction including intercellular adhesion molecule type 1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule type 1 (VCAM-1) were associated with severe disease and could predict complications and clinical outcomes in different disorders. Increase of these biomarkers was observed in aHUS as well. Until recently, aHUS resulted in unfavorable outcomes, with high death rates in acute phase, and up to 2/3 patients progressed to the end-stage renal failure. Understanding the role of complement dysregulation in aHUS pathogenesis has led to major changes in therapeutic approaches. Eculizumab (a humanized anti-C5 monoclonal antibody) inhibits the terminal complement pathway. This drug has revolutionized treatment and improved prognosis in aHUS. Those patients who received eculizumab have shown sharp decreae in the C3 levels. However, the questions concerning duration of targeted therapy inremission still remains unclear.The aim of the present study was to evaluate serum С3, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1 levels in the children with aHUS remission supported by eculizumab maintenance treatment, or without it. Serum C3, sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 levels were determined in 25 children with aHUS (14 treated with eculizumab and 15, without eculizumab). A control group included 17 children with a history of typical HUS. Serum levels of C3, sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 were within normal age ranges in all the groups. The children treated with eculizumab showed decreased C3 levels (99±20 mg/l vs 112±15 mg/l, and 123±40 mg/l, respectively), and increased sICAM-1 levels (483±103 ng/ ml vs 343±50 ng/ml and 401±91 ng/ml, respectively) compared to other groups (p < 0.05). No differences in sVCAM-1 levels were revealed in the groups. Hence, no signs of subclinical complement activation or endothelial disfunction were revealed in the group free of eculizumab therapy. Normal C3, sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 levels in blood indicate that normal endothelial state could be restored in aHUS, and this condition is maintained after discontinuation of the targeted therapy. Our results suggest that C3, sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1 monitoring may be useful for further management of these patients and for prediction of relapses.
IL4-589C>T GENE POLYMORPHISM AND EXPRESSION OF INTERLEUKIN-4 IN PATIENTS WITH DEVELOPING CHRONIC TRAUMATIC OSTEOMYELITIS
Authors: Miromanov A. M. , Mironova O. B. , Miromanova N. A.
Published: December 2018

Our aimwas to study the influence of IL4-589C>T gene polymorphism on IL-4 expression in patients, living in Zabaikalsky Region with a diagnosis of chronic traumatic osteomyelitis developing after fractures of long bones of extremities.The study included 132 patients with fractures of long bones at the age of 20 to 40 years old. The first group consisted of 83 patients with uncomplicated course of fractures; the second group (n = 49) included patients with chronic traumatic osteomyelitis healed by primary wound closure, however, developing chronic traumatic osteomyelitis over late postoperative period. The control group consisted of 100 practically healthy men and women of the same age group. These groups were homogeneous and similar by age, sex, origin and localization of fractures. Presence of acute or chronic comorbidities was the exclusion criterion. We applied clinical examination, instrumental tests (X-ray studies), laboratory methods (microbiological, immunological, ELISA for IL-4 measurement). IL-4 point mutation at position 589 (C>T) was tested by PCR; the DNA for this analysis was extracted from peripheral blood. The genetic studies were performed when patients entered the hospital. IL-4 contents, clinical and instrumental indicators were detected on 1, 2, 10 and 90 days after fracture. 

Resultsof the study were as follows: the frequency of the C allele and the homozygous genotype of the IL4- 589C>T gene in the patients with complicated clinical course was decreased 1.7- and 3.6-fold compared with the comparison clinical group, respectively. Frequency of T allele, by contrast, increased 3.7-fold, whereas heterozygous and mutant genotypes were changed 2.5 and 15 times against the comparison group. The persons from control group with IL4-589C/C genotype, showed a 1.4- and 2.5-fld increased IL-4 concentration as compared with the carriers of the -589C/T and -589T/T genotypes, respectively, and in -589C C/T genotype, 1.7-fold compared to -589Т/T genotype. A similar trend of IL-4 expression, depending on the IL4 genotype, was recorded in the group with both uncomplicated and complicated course of fractures. In conclusion, the patients with developing traumatic osteomyelitis showed ncreased frequency of the IL4 -589T allele (3.7-fold as compared with uncomplicated group). Meanwhile, higher frequency of the -589C/T -589T/T genotypes of the IL4 gene were registered. Genotype -589T/T of the IL4 gene is associated with lower IL-4  expression.
IMMUNOLOGICAL IMBALANCE IN BREAST CANCER AND LUNG CANCER IN POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN
Authors: Glushkov A. N. , Polenok E. G. , Gordeeva L. A. , Mun S. A. , Kostyanko M. V. , Antonov A. V. , Titov V. A. , Verzhbitskaya N. E. , Vafin I. A.
Published: December 2018

Previous studies reported some associations between class A antibodies specific for benzo[a]pyrene (IgA-Bp), estradiol (IgA-Es) and progesterone (IgA-Pg) and breast cancer (BC) in women like as with lung cancer (LC) in men. It was suggested that IgA-Bp and IgA-Es may stimulate tumor initiation and promotion, whereas IgA-Pg may inhibit the in vivo human carcinogenesis.The purpose of this study was to identify the suggested associations of such immunological imbalance with BC and LC in postmenopausal women.The serum A-class antibodies specific to benzo[a]pyrene, estradiol and progesterone (IgA-Bp, IgA-Es, IgA- Pg) were studied in 335 healthy women, 824 breast cancer (BC) patients and 127 cases of lung cancer (LC) by means of non-competitive solid phase immunoassay. The following results were obtained: Increased ratio of IgA-Bp and IgA-Es amounts exceeding the IgA-Pg levels was associated with a higher risk of breast cancer (OR = 2.8 and 2.4 respectively, p < 0.0001), and higher risk of LC (OR = 2.9 and 2.8, respectively, p < 0.0001). Conversely, the OR values decreased to 0.3-0.4 for BC and LC if IgA-Pg levels were higher than IgA-Bp and IgA-Es levels (p < 0.0001). These findings confirm the hypothesis that IgA-Bp and IgA-Es are capable to stimulate, and IgA-Pg, to inhibit the BC and LC occurrence n postmenopausal women. The balance between IgA-Bp and IgA-Es, on the one hand, and IgA-Pg, on the other hand, is much more important than individual contents of these antibodies.In conclusion, the phenomenon of “immunological interference” is revealed, i.e., the mutual enhancement of IgA-Bp and IgA-Es effects, thus, probably, stimulating the initial and subsequent events of carcinogenesis initiation and promotion, with a weak anticancer effect of IgA-Pg, and by weakening the mutual procarcinogenic effects of IgA-Bp and IgA-Es by the marked effect of IgA-Pg.
COMPARISON OF COLORIMETRIC AND CHEMILUMINESCENT ELISA TESTS FOR DETECTION OF IgG ANTIBODIES TO HUMAN EPO IN THE SERA OF EXPERIMENTAL ANIMALS
Authors: Kudryashova A. M. , Mikhailova N. A. , Borisova O. V.
Published: December 2018

Production of antibodies to erythropoietin-stimulating drugs is an important problem of therapy with recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO). It leads to changes in the pharmacokinetic profile and decreased therapeutic efficiency. Upon long-term treatment with EPO preparations, neutralizing antibodies can result in rare cases, thus leading to complete pure red cell aplasia. Hence, detection of antibodies to EPO is an important stage in the assessment of the drug immunogenicity in preclinical and clinical studies, as well as during the treatment with EPO. We have compared colorimetric and chemiluminescent ELISA tests for detection of IgG antibodies to human EPO with 3,3’,5,5’-tetramethylbenzidine – hydrogen peroxide and luminol -hydrogen peroxide detection systems, respectively. Аntibodies to human EPO were determined in blood serum samples of experimental animals, i.e., rabbits and guinea pigs following their immunization withdifferent doses of pegylated human recombinant EPO-beta subcutaneously or intravenously. The affinitypurified rabbit polyclonal antibodies to human EPO were used as a reference material. The effects of hydrogen peroxide and luminol concentrations upon sensitivity of a chemiluminescent method were also studied. We have shown a 1.5-2-fold increase in sensitivity when using 4-iodophenol for amplification of chemiluminescence. A comparison of the chemiluminescence intensity with time has demonstrated a better stability for the substrate mixture prepared on borate buffer. A decrease in chemiluminescence signal with time was proportional to the decrease in background signal, thus rendering stability of the signal/background ratio for 3 to 30 minutes. Due to optimizing the substrate mixture composition and conditions of chemiluminescence recording, the reached detection limits for colorimetric and chemiluminescent ELISA’s were, respectively, 0.6 ng/ml and 0.08 ng/ml. The measurement range was extended by more than 20 times for chemiluminescent ELISA. The chemiluminescent ELISA for anti-erythropoietin antibody detection showed a 1.9 to 2.6-fold increase in sensitivity for rabbit serum, and 1.8 to 8.9-fold for guinea pigs serum. Good correlation of results was found for quantitative detection of antibodies in rabbit sera using the two methods (R = 0.981). Thus, chemiluminescent ELISA allowed develop a more sensitive detection technique of IgG antibodies to human erythropoietin.
Green reduction of graphene oxide and its applications in band gap calculation and antioxidant activity
Authors: Tayade Ujwala S , Borse Amulrao U , Meshram Jyotsna S
Published: December 2018

Herein, the authors have developed an efficient green method for the reduction of graphene oxide by using seed extract from the easily available and cheap plant Punica granatum L. (pomegranate). Phytochemical constituents present in the extract are responsible for reduction, stabilization and capping of reduced graphene. There are a number of methods reported for the physical and chemical reduction of graphene oxide, but the green reduction approach has become more popular. Utilization of the P. granatum L. seed extract for the reduction of graphene oxide is reported for the first time. The method is essential because the reaction set-up is simple, it takes less time, is non-toxic, uses a mild reducing agent and obtains a very good yield. The reduction of graphene oxide is confirmed by different characterization techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and morphological study using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The resultant reduced graphene and graphene oxide nanosheets show stable dispersion in water and other solvents. In the case of graphene materials, the pristine form shows zero band gap; however, the study of new band gap openings for electronics applications is possible using the disperse form. The reduced graphene oxide shows biocompatibility and excellent radical-scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radicals.
In vitro and in vivo bacterial antifouling properties of phosphite plasma-treated silicone
Authors: Akdogan Ebru , Demirbilek Murat , Sen Yasin , Onur Mehmet Ali , Azap Ozlem Kurt , Sonmez Erkin , Sirin Hasret Tolga , Mutlu Mehmet
Published: December 2018

In order to improve their bacterial antifouling property, silicone surfaces were functionalized through the plasma polymerization (PP) technique using diethyl phosphite as the precursor. The functionalized surfaces were characterized using contact angle measurements, contact angle titration, Fourier transform infrared–attenuated total reflection spectroscopy and in vitro cytotoxicity assay. The amount of non-specific protein adsorption and the conformational changes of surface-adsorbed proteins were investigated. Antifouling properties of the surfaces were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. PP functionalization generated a hydrophilic and amphoteric surface with a very good protein and bacterial antifouling property and caused less conformational changes on the secondary structure of surface-adsorbed proteins. In in vivo conditions, no slime layer was formed around bacteria that adhered on the PP-functionalized surface. It is concluded that the amphoteric nature of the PP-functionalized surface is the reason for the good antifouling property.
Kir4.1/Kir5.1 Activity Is Essential for Dietary Sodium Intake–Induced Modulation of Na-Cl Cotransporter
Authors: Wu Peng , Gao Zhong-Xiuzi , Su Xiao-Tong , Wang Ming-Xiao , Wang Wen-Hui , Lin Dao-Hong
Published: December 2018

Significance Statement

Considerable evidence indicates that basolateral inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir4.1/Kir5.1 is essential for membrane transport in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT), and that dietary sodium and potassium are important in regulating activity of the thiazide-sensitive Na-Cl cotransporter (NCC). In mouse studies, the authors found that stimulation of NCC induced by sodium restriction was associated with increasing Kir4.1/Kir5.1 activity in the DCT and membrane hyperpolarization; NCC inhibition induced by high sodium intake was associated with decreasing Kir4.1/Kir5.1 activity in the DCT and membrane depolarization. In kidney-specific Kir4.1 knockout mice, the effect of dietary sodium on NCC activity was largely abolished, as were its effects on DCT membrane conductance and potential. The findings indicate that Kir4.1/Kir5.1 is essential for mediating dietary sodium intake–induced modulation of NCC function.

Background

Dietary sodium intake regulates the thiazide-sensitive Na-Cl cotransporter (NCC) in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT). Whether the basolateral, inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir4.1/Kir5.1 (a heterotetramer of Kir4.1/Kir5.1) in the DCT is essential for mediating the effect of dietary sodium intake on NCC activity is unknown.

Methods

We used electrophysiology, renal clearance techniques, and immunoblotting to examine effects of Kir4.1/Kir5.1 in the DCT and NCC in wild-type and kidney-specific Kir4.1 knockout mice.

Results

Low sodium intake stimulated basolateral Kir4.1/Kir5.1 activity, increased basolateral K+ conductance, and hyperpolarized the membrane. Conversely, high sodium intake inhibited the potassium channel, decreased basolateral K+ currents, and depolarized the membrane. Low sodium intake increased total and phosphorylated NCC expression and augmented hydrochlorothiazide-induced natriuresis; high sodium intake had opposite effects. Thus, elevated NCC activity induced by low sodium intake was associated with upregulation of Kir4.1/Kir5.1 activity in the DCT, whereas inhibition of NCC activity by high sodium intake was associated with diminished Kir4.1/Kir5.1 activity. In contrast, dietary sodium intake did not affect NCC activity in knockout mice. Further, Kir4.1 deletion not only abolished basolateral K+ conductance and depolarized the DCT membrane, but also abrogated the stimulating effects induced by low sodium intake on basolateral K+ conductance and hyperpolarization. Finally, dietary sodium intake did not alter urinary potassium excretion rate in hypokalemic knockout and wild-type mice.

Conclusions

Stimulation of Kir4.1/Kir5.1 by low intake of dietary sodium is essential for NCC upregulation, and inhibition of Kir4.1/Kir5.1 induced by high sodium intake is a key step for downregulation of NCC.
Current Trends, Dilemmas and Future Directions in Neuropedagogy in the Field of Early Childhood
Authors: Szécsi Tünde , Varga László , Mák Veronika
Published: December 2018

During the past 25 years, research on brain structure and function has expanded our understanding of the relationship between brain development and learning. This field of study is referred to with several terms such as neuroeducation, neuropedagogy, and Mind, Brain and Education. Although a strong interest in neuroeducation is present among researchers and teachers, often misleading recommendations from neuroscience research are made for classrooms. This article provides an overview of neuroeducational research studies in early childhood education to demonstrate how this field of study impacts teachers’ and parents’ understanding of best practices and optimal development. Also, to address the concern of the valid and reliable research in neuroeducation, we outline the principles of neuroeducational research based on Nouri (2016), and propose directions for future research.
Les Guies de Treball com eines d'investigació
Authors: Andreu Montse , Andreu Agustí , Comas d'Argemir Dolors , Comelles Josep Maria
Published: December 2018

L'organització de l'Arxiu d'Etnografia de Catalunya suposa una sèrie de feines prèvies, indispensables per garantir l'eficàcia del  treball dels nostres col·laboradors, en la seva major part etnògrafs amateurs, folkloristes, o estudiants dels primers cursos de Facultat. Calia per a racionalitzar aquesta tasca, elaborar unes guies de treball sobre una sèrie de tòpics fàcils d'abastar, i que al mateix temps poguessin ésser copsats en la seva totalitat per un personal encara no totalment format en els mètodes i tècniques de camp.
Pío Navarro Alcalà-Zamora: Tratadillo de agricultura popular
Authors: González Ibáñez Mª Carmen
Published: December 2018

Con este Tratadillo de agricultura popular, Pío Navarro lleva ya publicados dos libros que son fruto de un importante trabajo de campo (1972-73) y de un estudio a fondo de la comarca de la Alpujarra. El primer de ellos, publicado en 1979, es una monografía local: en “Mecina. La cambiante estructura social de un pueblo de la Alpujarra” se nos explican detalladamente los aspectos económico-sociales, las técnicas agrícolas, los ritos festivos y otras costumbres de esta localidad alpujarreña, y se nos intenta dar un modelo que explique su estructura social. Este segundo libro, Tratadillo de agricultura popular es resultado de aquel, un resumen de los modelos teóricos que se habían expuesto, esta vez generalizándolos a toda la comarca.
Susan Sontag: La enfermedad como metáfora
Authors: Comelles Josep Maria
Published: December 2018

Poques vegades, invadits per una literatura sociològica o antropològica uniforme i sovint avorrida, podem parlar d’un llibre fascinant, frívol potser per alguns, però infinitament més trascendent que bona part de les trascendències que trobem a les nostres llibreries.
Julio Caro Baroja: El Carnaval
Authors: Sánchez-Cascado Blanco Fausto
Published: December 2018

Julio Caro Baroja, sobrino de Pío y Ricardo Baroja, ha sido uno de los pocos investigadores, que partiendo de una labor individual, ha seguido estudiando la cultura popular del Estado Español, durante los difíciles años del franquismo. Muestra de ello son sus obras: Los Pueblos de España (1946), Los Vascos (1949), Las Brujas y su Mundo (1961).
Primeras jornadas sobre Antropología de la Medicina
Authors: Arxiu Revista
Published: December 2018

Se preven 7 ponencias y una mesa redonda, que se sucederán entre sí con los siguientes títulos provisionales; Ponencias: 1) La situación de la Antropología de la Medicina en España, 2) Brujería y sociedad, 3) La Brujería en España, 4) Crisis biológicas, personalidad y enfermedad, 5) Medicina, simbolismo y estructura social, 6) Las otras medicinas en las sociedades latinas y 7)Santuarios, exvotos y promesas, o la medicina sin médicos. Mesa Redonda: El estudio de la asistencia sanitaria y psiquiátrica en las sociedad complejas: el caso de la Antropología.
Les ciutats es fan per dins. Desafiaments en etnografia urbana.
Authors: I. Cordeiro Graça
Published: December 2018

Aquest article descriu un problema central en l’etnografia urbana: la delimitació d’un camp de recerca que, en última instància, coincideix amb la delimitació del seu objecte d’estudi. A la primera part es traça una retrospectiva històrica sobre aquest tema, des de l’Escola de Chicago fins a la institucionalització de l’antropologia urbana als EUA els anys 1970 i, a la segona part, s’exemplifica amb retalls etnogràfics emprats en recerques etnogràfiques prèvies. La relació entre aquella part de la ciutat etnogràficament aprehesa i la totalitat urbana s’analitza aquí, fent servir nocions d’abast intermedi o nivells intermedis d’anàlisi suggerits per alguns autors com a possibilitats creatives que obren perspectives d’anàlisi sobre la ciutat, tot servint de suport per tal de poder-les descriure i pensar-les des d’una perspectiva etnogràfica.
Jóvenes y espacio público. Del estigma a la indignación.
Authors: Font Judit
Published: December 2018

Ressenya de: Trilla, J. [coord.]; Casal, J.; Feixa, C.; Figueras, M.; Planas, A.; Romaní, O.; Saura, J.; Soler, P. [eds.] (2011). Jóvenes y espacio público. Del estigma a la indignación. Barcelona: Bellaterra
Etnicidad y desarrollo en los Andes
Authors: Vallverdú Vallverdú Jaume
Published: December 2018

Ressenya de: Palenzuela, P.; Olivi, A. (coords.) (2011). Etnicidad y desarrollo en los Andes. Sevilla, Universidad de Sevilla, Secretariado de Publicaciones.
Cuerpo y procesos de modernización en África. El caso de Guinea Ecuatorial
Authors: Vallverdú Vallverdú Jaume
Published: December 2018

El que es presenta tot seguit és un projecte de recerca col·lectiu R+D que es desenvolupa des del primer de gener del 2012 fins al 31 de desembre del 2014. Dirigit pel Dr. Josep Martí Pérez, de la Institució Milà i Fontanals del CSIC amb seu a Barcelona, l’integra un total de sis investigadors que es distribueixen les tasques i temàtiques de recerca de la manera següent: Josep Martí, presentació social del cos; Begonya Enguix, qüestions de gènere; Laura Porzio, grups d’edat; Virgínia Forns, adscripcions ètniques a Guinea Equatorial; Jacint Creus, dimensió diacrònica, i Jaume Vallverdú, processos de modernització i diàspora.
Relacions de gènere en les parelles mixtes residents a les àrees rurals i urbanes del camp de tarragona. Un estudi de dones i homes catalans aparellats amb persones estrangeres
Authors: Roca Girona Jordi
Published: December 2018

Des de l’any 2006, i amb diferents equips, hem estat treballant sobre parelles mixtes o matrimonis binacionals en sengles projectes del Plan Nacional de I+D+I:1 primer amb matrimonis entre homes espanyols i dones estrangeres, els majoritaris entre les parelles mixtes espanyoles, i després incorporant també les unions de dones espanyoles amb homes estrangers. Per bé que ambdues recerques han estat de caire qualitatiu, sempre hem pres en consideració amb finalitats analítiques i de plantejament el conjunt de l’Estat. Teníem interès, doncs, a dur a terme una recerca més modesta quant al territori a abastar que ens permetés així mateix focalitzar l’atenció en qüestions més específiques i localitzades. El projecte concedit per l’Institut Català de les Dones, que hem dut a terme en el període 2010-2011, ens ha donat l’oportunitat de realitzar-la.
Joventut i procés d'autonomia: desmitificar per acompanyar
Authors: Robles i Miserachs Anna
Published: December 2018

La tendència generalitzada que considera l’autonomia com a finalitat de gran part dels objectius en polítiques de joventut ha sobredimensionat el concepte fins a mitificar-lo. Acotar-ne la definició, revisar els diversos noms que rep el mateix encàrrec així com contextualitzar el treball amb joves als efectes de la globalització, l’impacte social de les TIC i un mercat laboral de difícil accés permet segregar els trets més il·lusoris de la pretesa autonomia adulta dels elements veritablement útils per a l’atenció i acompanyament de joves en el seu procés d’autonomia. Es tracta d’una reflexió que recopila diversos plantejaments teòrics entorn del concepte d’autonomia i que desemboca en una proposta pràctica que, tot i estar basada en l’experiència en l’atenció a joves extutelats, pretén plantejar aspectes vàlids per a l’àmbit de la joventut en conjunt.
Patología dual: la nosología incierta. Narrativas profesionales sobre un cajón de sastre.
Authors: Carceller Maicas Natàlia Lledó
Published: December 2018

El sistema de salud mental catalán ha experimentado un proceso de evolución durante el cual se han producido cambios significativos que han conformado el modelo vigente. A pesar de los avances, existen aún ámbitos en los que las carencias se hacen patentes, como es el caso de la unificación de las redes de salud mental y drogadicciones. La Patología Dual se erige en el punto clave a partir del cual analizar esta situación, puesto que esta “nueva” categoría diagnóstica, que implica la presencia de un trastorno mental y un trastorno adictivo de manera concomitante, nos permite ver el modo en que ambas redes se relacionan. La paradoja reside en el hecho de que dicha categoría no está presente en los manuales diagnósticos, y a pesar de eso es empleada en la práctica diaria de los profesionales. A partir del análisis de las narrativas de los profesionales en el contexto sanitario catalán se observa la falta de consenso en torno a la definición de Patología Dual, la cual constituye un gran cajón de sastre.
Los megaeventos y sus consecuencias urbanas. Posibles perspectivas hacia las futuras experiencias brasileñas
Authors: Cortes de Lira Ana Clara
Published: December 2018

Partiendo de la excusa de los campeonatos deportivos de ámbito mundial previstos en Brasil para los próximos años, el presente ensayo se propone discutir el papel de los megaeventos en la transformación social y urbanística de sus ciudades-sede, tomando como principal referente los Juegos Olímpicos de Verano. A través de un abordaje histórico, y con referencias a otros autores que se dedican al tema en cuestión, se plantea un breve repaso del conjunto de experiencias olímpicas de los últimos 20 años, de las cuales se entresacan las tendencias que hemos observado y la relación entre la evolución de los criterios de organización de dichos eventos y el modelo vigente de gestión de las ciudades. Como objetivo, se busca establecer un panorama a través del cual se puedan evaluar los posibles impactos de las próximas Olimpíadas, a saber, Londres 2012 y, más específicamente, Río de Janeiro 2016. Mientras la capital inglesa, a pocos días de su estreno como ciudad olímpica, concluye su etapa de preparación, en la antigua capital brasileña justo se empiezan a producir ahora las divergencias y conflictos sociales que configuran el proceso de organización de un evento de este calibre.
Cossos significants, cossos representats, cossos resistents. L’itinerari corporal d’una noia skinhead
Authors: Porzio Laura
Published: December 2018

L’objectiu d’aquest article és presentar parts de les temàtiques tractades a la meva tesi doctoral Cos, biografia i cultures juvenils. Els estudis de cas del moviment skinhead i dels latin kings & queens a Catalunya, defensada al gener de 2009 al Departament d’Antropologia, Filosofia i Treball Social de la URV. L’objectiu teòric del treball va ser fer dialogar l’Antropologia del Cos amb els Estudis de Joventut, portant a terme una recerca etnogràfica i interpretant els relats biogràfics de noies i nois joves amb la mirada en el cos i les corporalitats com a eixos vertebradors de les seves identitats, experiències i pràctiques compartides. En aquest article em centro en l’etnografia sobre el moviment skin i el relat biogràfic de l’Elena, skinhead girl antifeixista catalana, per tal d’analitzar com les pràctiques corporals d’ella, i dels altres membres del grup, donen significat, sentit i raó de ser a aquesta mateixa cultura juvenil.