bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peculiar features of life quality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Nurullina G. M.
Published: October 2018

Aim. To study the peculiarities of the quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and postmenopausal osteoporosis (PO).

Materials and methods. 104 postmenopausal women aged 49–67 were examined. They were divided into 3 groups: group 1 (38 persons) – patients with DM2 and PO, group 2 (24 persons) – patients with PO, group 3 (42 persons) – postmenopausal patients with DM2 without any osteoporosis signs. Their quality of life was assessed using SF-36 survey, sensations of pain – with four-component visual analogue scale.

Results. Physical component of health (PH) was statistically significantly lower in DM2 and PO group. Most patients of this group had decreased psychical component of health. In DM2 and PO group as compared with PO group statistically significantly lower values according to physical status-conditioned role functioning scales (RP) (p = 0,018), emotional status-conditioned role functioning (p = 0,028), PH (p = 0,038) were detected. When compared with DM2 group, physical functioning (p = 0,04), RP (p = 0,014), pain intensity (p = 0,049), PH (p = 0,014) appeared to be statistically significantly lower. The factors, negatively influencing the quality of life in patients of DM2 and PO group were the following: remoteness of diabetes, comorbidity, level of pain sensations, presence of diabetic polyneuropathy, insulin therapy in treatment, unsatisfactory glycemic control.

Conclusions. Osteoporosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus worsens their quality of life, in particular at the expense of elevated intensity of pain sensations.
Difficulties of life-time diagnosis of rabies. Clinical observation
Authors: Mamunts A. Kh. , Batrakova G. V. , Trefilov I. N. , Ogorodova N. I. , Mamunts M. A.
Published: October 2018

The paper presents a case of rabies with lethal outcome in a fourteen-year-old adolescent. The child did not undergo postexposure prevention of rabies after a cat’s attack in connection with late addressing for medical care, just after occurrence of clinical symptoms of this disease. The child was not diagnosed “rabies” when was alive. Diagnosis was verified by detection of rabies virus RNA in autopsy material using polymerase chain reaction.
Prosodic Segmentation and Grammatical Relations: The Direct Object in Kabyle (Berber) / Segmentação prosódica e relações gramaticais: o objeto direto em kabile (berbere)
Authors: Mettouchi Amina
Published: October 2018

Abstract: The aim of the present paper is to provide evidence for the existence, in Kabyle (Berber), of the grammatical role ‘Direct Object’, and to define it using a non-aprioristic, empirical methodology. The definition, based on the analysis of corpus data, involves formal means pertaining to morphology, syntax and prosody. Prosodic segmentation is not only crucial for the definition of the category; it also serves as supporting evidence for the tightness of the relationship between verb and direct object.Keywords: direct object; prosody; segmentation; Kabyle; Berber; grammatical relations.Resumo: O objetivo deste artigo é oferecer evidências para a existência da função gramatical “Objeto Direto” em kabile (berbere) e defini-lo utilizando uma metodologia empírica, não-apriorística. A definição, baseada na análise de dados de corpus, envolve meios formais pertinentes à morfologia, sintaxe e prosódia. A segmentação prosódica não é apenas crucial para a definição da categoria, mas também serve como evidência em favor da coesão da relação entre verbo e objeto direto.Palavras-chave: objeto direto; prosódia; segmentação; kabile; berbere; relações gramaticais.
Complex Illocutive Units in L-AcT: An Analysis of Non-Terminal Prosodic Breaks of Bound and Multiple Comments / Unidades Ilocucionárias Complexas na L-AcT: uma análise de quebras prosódicas não-terminais em Comentários Ligados e Comentários Múltiplos
Authors: Panunzi Alessandro , Saccone Valentina
Published: October 2018

Abstract: This work presents a pilot study for a prosodic analysis of two different spoken structures in spoken Italian within the theoretical framework of the Language into Act Theory (L-AcT): (i) chains of two or more Bound Comments (COB) that do not form a compositional informative and prosodic unit; (ii) compositional Information Units formed by two or more Multiple Comments (CMM), linked together by a conventional prosodic model that implements specific meta-illocutive structures. This work analyzes COBs and CMMs from the DB-IPIC Italian Minicorpus. Different prosodic cues are taken into account: f0 reset, pauses, final lengthening, intensity lowering and initial rush. The distinctive feature for COBs is a flat trend of f0 before the boundary, with a low number of f0 reset, while CMMs vary between different f0 shapes. Vowel elongation and a no rushing speech rate cooperate in perceiving the prolongation of one COB into another. Initial rush is a characteristic feature of CMMs, while the lengthening of the last vowel of the unit is easier to find at the end of a COB than in a CMM.Keywords: prosody; spontaneous speech segmentation; non-terminal breaks; L-AcT.Resumo: Este trabalho apresenta um estudo piloto sobre uma análise prosódica de duas estruturas distintas em italiano falado, sob a perspectiva da Teoria da Língua em Ato (L-AcT): (i) cadeiras de dois ou mais Comentários Ligados (COB) que não formam uma unidade informacional e prosódica composicional; (ii) unidades informacionais composicionais formadas por dois ou mais Comentários Múltiplos (CMM), ligados entre si por um modelo prosódico convencional que implementa estruturas metailocutivas específicas. Os COBs e CMMs analisados foram extraídos do minicorpus italiano disponível no DB-IPIC. Diferentes aspectos prosódicos são levados em conta: reset de f0, pausas, alongamento final, abaixamento de intensidade e rush inicial. O traço distintivo para os COBs é uma tendência a achatamento de f0 antes da fronteira, com um baixo número de reset de f0, enquanto os CMMs variam entre diferentes formatos de f0. Alongamento de vogal e uma velocidade de fala sem rushing cooperam na percepção do prolongamento de um COB naquele que o segue. O rush inicial é um traço característico dos CMMs, enquanto o alongamento da última vogal da unidade é mais fácil de encontrar ao final de um COB do que de um CMM.Palavras-chave: prosódia; segmentação da fala espontânea; quebras não-terminais; L-Act
Relações entre uso misto do solo e espaço público na Linha Verde de Curitiba
Authors: Prevedello Andre Augusto
Published: October 2018

A pesquisa analisa a configuração urbana da Linha Verde de Curitiba. Foi desenvolvido um levantamento de dados de um recorte da Linha Verde Sul (área de operação urbana) e da Av. Sete de Setembro (região da cidade já consolidada). Baseados na evolução da cidade e de ampla análise de uma revisão bibliográfica sobre espaço público e uso misto do solo a pesquisa demonstra que a quantidade de espaço público destinado foi superior às médias da cidade. Contudo, o modelo de relação entre uso misto do solo e as áreas públicas é o mesmo já utilizado na Av. Estrutural Sete de Setembro.Tanto para a área em recorte da Linha Verde Sul quanto para o trecho da Avenida estrutural Sete de Setembro, foi desenvolvido um levantamento de dados dividido em três grupos. O primeiro grupo formado por parâmetros urbanísticos gerais como coeficiente de aproveitamento, áreas dos terrenos, área de ocupação e área construída. O segundo grupo, formado pelos parâmetros físicos do espaço público como áreas de calçadas, de ruas, permeáveis e verdes. Um terceiro grupo, utilizando o parâmetro de densidade e as relações entre densidade e áreas públicas.  Após este levantamento foi feito um cruzamento dos dados obtidos com o objetivo de encontrar relações entre a densidade, atual e futura, Espaço Público e Uso Misto do Solo.Partindo-se do princípio que a utilização de variadas tipologias de uso do solo adjacente a espaços públicos possui relações complementares de melhoria de qualidade à cidade, defende-se que a implementação destes conceitos foi falha em outras áreas já consolidadas da cidade.
ANALYSIS OF SELF-RATED HEALTH BY RESIDENTS OF THE UNTSUKUL DISTRICT, REPUBLIC OF DAGESTAN (ON RESULTS OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY)
Authors: Bekshokova Patimat A. , Abdurakhmanov Gayirbeg M. , Bekshokov Kerim S. , Gabibova Patimat I. , Bekshokov Kazbek K. , Mukhtarova Gulnara M.
Published: October 2018

Aim.To carry out a comparative analysis of self-rated health, medical activity, and satisfaction with the quality of medical care in public health institutions by residents of rural settlements of the Untsukul district, Republic of Dagestan.Methods.The study was conducted by the method of questioning 2643 respondents, among them 1453 women and 1181 men.Results.According to the results of the survey, the majority of the interviewed residents of Untsukul district (68.2%) are satisfied with their health. Medical activity of the population at the time of the study was 60.6%. As to respondents who applied to the medical institutions of the Untsukul district during this period, 13.5% are not satisfied with the quality of medical care in public health institutions, 23.5% are fully satisfied, 30% are not fully satisfied.Conclusion.A social survey in the form of a questionnaire is one of the most effective methods of obtaining information about the self-rated health of the population. Timely analysis of medical activity of the population, its satisfaction with the quality of medical care will improve the efficiency of the health system.
DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES ON THE BASIS OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTTOM STATIONS IN DIFFERENT ZONES OF THE NORTH-CASPIAN SHELF
Authors: Ushivtsev Vladimir B. , Vostokov Sergey V. , Vodovsky Nikita B. , Galaktionova Maya L. , Akhmedova Gulnara А.
Published: October 2018

Aim.On the basis of four experimental bottom stations installed at various depths of the North Caspian shelf, the local communities of marine organisms were formed, on various constructions and in close proximity to them were investigated. The aim of the work is to study the features of community development on the basis of bottom biological stations, to measure their quantitative characteristics, to assess the informative character of the structural and functional characteristics of local communities for analyzing the state of the marine environment. Methods. Experimental bottom stations were installed in various regions of the North Caspian shelf using diving equipment to study their impact on the environment. Control over the development of associated fauna was carried out with the help of traps and the method of direct accounting for the materials of photo-video surveys. Sampling of fouling was carried out by the method of registration sites. Based on the number of species of flora and fauna of local communities, a ballroom information system has been suggested, that can be used for monitoring. Results. Research materials indicate a significant difference in the species composition, biomass and the structure of communities of local cenoses formed at the bottom stations with the same design and ecological capacity at various depths of the North Caspian shelf. In the shallow shelf zone at depths of 6-8 m in the local community of the bottom station, the vegetation component is dominant. At great depths, the total biomass increases in local cenoses and animal communities, including filter-feeders, make significant contribution to the self-purification of the marine environment. Conclusions. The results indicate the possibility of using complex observations of the structure and functional characteristics of local communities formed on the base of bottom stations, as well as the development of species of indicators and objects of accumulation of toxicants for assessing the state of the marine environment. The development of this approach involves the experiments with different station costructioons and materials and use of biotechnology implantation of test organisms on the design of bottom stations.
MICROMORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE EPIDERMIS AND HYSTOCHEMICAL TECHNIQUE OF IDENTIFICATION OF SECONDARY METABOLITES IN THE LEAVES OF BORAGINACEAE HERBAСEOUS PLANTS
Authors: Tamakhina Aida Ya. , Akhkubekova Amina A.
Published: October 2018

Aim. In conventional medicine, the species of the Boraginaceae family are not used due to the poor scientific knowledge of the products of secondary metabolism and the lack of information about most of the species. We investigated micromorphological features of the epidermis and conducted histochemical analysis of the products of secondary metabolism in the leaves of Pulmonaria mollis Wulfen ex Hornem., Echium vulgare L., Symphytum asperum Lepech. and S. caucasicum M. Bieb. Methods. Micromorphological analysis included the study of the shape of the main cells of the epidermis, the structure of trichomes and stomata. The number of stomata and trichomes was calculated per 1 mm2. Were used the histochemical reactions in order to identify the products of secondary metabolism. Results. The studied species are characterized by the bifacial type of leaves, numerous trichomes, including long leaf fuzz with a rosette of epidermal cells. The anomocytic type of stomata is characteristic for P. mollis and E. vulgare, anomocytic and anisocytic for S. asperum and S. caucasicum. The leaves of P. mollis, E. vulgare and S. caucasicum are amphistomatic while S. asperum is hypostomatic. The ratio of the non- glandular and glandular trichomes of the intercostal zones of the lower epidermis to the upper in P. mollis was 1.08 and 1.83, respectively, in S. caucasicum 1.61 and 2.67, in S. asperum 7.21 and 2.50, in E. vulgare 1.65 (glandular trichomes in the interstitial zones are absent). In the leaves of the studied species, the products of secondary metabolism (tannins, alkaloids, essential oils, anthracene derivatives and mucus) are localized in bases of non-glandular, glandular trichomes, veins and the main cells of the epidermis. Conclusions. Genus signs of the epidermis of leaves of Boraginaceae are the structure and location of trichomes. Species differences are due to the location of stomata, glandular trichomes and shape of the main epidermal cells. The intensity of staining of secondary metabolites depends on their content in the leaves. The presence of biologically active substances in the leaves of P. mollis, S. caucasicum, S. asperum and E. vulgare determines the value of these species in the creation of new phytopreparations.
ORGANIZA��O SOCIAL E PRODUTIVA DE PESCADORES PARA AGREGA��O DE VALOR DO PESCADO EM MERCADOS INSTITUCIONAIS
Authors: Sousa Diego Neves de , Kato Hellen Cristina de Almeida , Milagres Cleiton Silva Ferreira , Freitas Alexandre Aires de
Published: October 2018

Para atender demandas voltadas � agricultura familiar, o Minist�rio do Desenvolvimento Agr�rio em parceria com a Embrapa promoveram a��es em todo pa�s para apoiar iniciativas ligadas � inova��o de processos produtivos e acesso a mercados. No Tocantins, o projeto "Capacita��o e assessoria � organiza��o social e produtiva de pescadores artesanais para agrega��o de valor do pescado em mercados institucionais" realizou a��es junto a col�nia de pescadores de Xambio�, norte do estado, atrav�s de com uma organiza��o coletiva constitu�da, a cooperativa MATRINXAM. Foram realizadas a��es de capacita��o em organiza��es coletivas e boas pr�ticas de processamento de pescado e a��es de assessoria em gest�o para fortalecimento do portf�lio comercial da cooperativa. Estas a��es permitiram maior autonomia para a cooperativa, tanto para sua gest�o quanto para agrega��o de valor aos produtos � base de pescado, o que possibilitou a gera��o de renda e melhorias de vida para as fam�lias dos pescadores de Xambio�.
Diagn�stico da atividade pesqueira no Esp�rito Santo, Brasil: um estudo sobre o segmento de peixarias
Authors: Rocha Keuwy Sousa , Santos Caroline Tedesco , Freitas Rodrigo Randow de
Published: October 2018

O consumo de peixes tem se elevado nas �ltimas quatro d�cadas e tende de continuar a aumentar. Al�m disso, o peixe continua a ser um dos produtos alimentares mais comercializados no mundo. A cadeia produtiva da pesca possui um importante papel entre as atividades econ�micas do pa�s, pois assume fun��o importante na gera��o de emprego e renda para a popula��o e oferta de alimentos, n�o apenas para a popula��o local. Com isso, para atender esse crescimento da demanda, conhecer os stakeholders e os elos da cadeia produtiva se torna essencial para que a cadeia de suprimentos suporte este crescimento de forma sustent�vel. Assim, o presente artigo busca levantar quest�es relativas a atividade de pesca praticada, analisando o market share de um dos elos da cadeia produtiva, as peixarias, al�m de levantar problemas que dificultam o crescimento do com�rcio nesses estabelecimentos. Dentre eles est�o a falta de pescado, infraestrutura deficiente e falta de f�brica de gelo. Por ser um diagn�stico inicial dessas empresas no estado, mais estudos ser�o necess�rios com objetivo de mitigar os problemas encontrados e ampliar os fatores positivos.
Aplicaciones de las Impresoras 3D en el desarrollo de prótesis para cirugía de reemplazo protésico (artroplastias). Uso en caninos
Authors: Gutiérrez-Sandí William , Lemos-Pires Taciano , Galiano-Murillo Gian Carlo , Madrigal-Lobo José Alejandro
Published: October 2018

La tecnología de la impresión 3D ofrece muchos beneficios para todos los ámbitos de trabajo que desarrolla el ser humano, desde la fabricación de objetos hogareños, ya sean sillas, vasos, platos, mesas, etc. Hasta en las ciencias de la salud, permitiendo la elaboración de piezas prostáticas, tanto para personas, como para animales.Dicha tecnología ha sido analizada en este informe para conocer la viabilidad de realizar piezas prostáticas para animales caninos. En este informe exploratorio se documentaron las diferentes máquinas (impresoras 3D, computadores, etc.) y materiales (polímeros, resinas, metales, etc. que se requieren para poder realizar las impresiones 3D y también se analizaron casos reales en los que ya se han implementado prótesis impresas en 3D. Se hizo uso del método científico para el planteamiento y desarrollo de esta investigación y los resultados de ésta permitieron una comprensión más profunda sobre esta tecnología y sus aplicaciones en la salud animal, así como también, permitieron conocer cuáles son los recursos necesarios para poder implementarla.
Tadalafil combined with remote ischemic preconditioning in the prevention of renal ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Azevedo Italo Medeiros , Vieira da Silva Gabriela , Sinara Varela Constantino de Medeiros Aristela , Sibelle Varela Constantino de Medeiros Dumaresq de Souza Ariadne , Karla Aires de Macêdo Rosana , Cunha Medeiros Aldo
Published: October 2018

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate whether the combination of tadalafil treatment and remote ischemic preconditioning may provide protection against ischemia reperfusion injury (I/R) in kidneys of rats. METHODS: Twenty-four male Wistar rats weighing 280-300g were randomly divided into 3 groups: Group 1 - (control), only right nephrectomy was performed. No treatment with tadalafil. Group II - Left renal ischemia, right nephrectomy, without remote preconditioning, treatment with tadalafil (1.0 mg/kg, oral). Group III - Left renal ischemia, right nephrectomy, with remote preconditioning, treatment with tadalafil.  RESULTS: 24 h after, urea and creatinine dosage and histopathology of the ischemic kidneys were performed. In the left kidney of control group rats, a higher degree of cellular necrosis was observed when compared to the tadalafil group, with and without remote preconditioning. On the preconditioning + tadalafil group rats, there was a significant reduction in histological parameters when compared to the Ischemia + tadalafil group rats (p<0.05). In group III, comparing to other groups, a significant improvement of the left kidney function was observed, through the lower values ​​of the urea and creatinine dosages. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated protective effects of remote preconditioning + tadalafil in an experimental model of renal I/R in the rat. The results demonstrated that a single dose of tadalafil prior to renal I/R attenuated the histopathological lesions, especially cellular necrosis, and renal function tests.
The Genetic Coding System and Unitary Matrices
Authors: Petoukhov Sergey
Published: October 2018

Information molecules of DNA and RNA should obey principles of quantum mechanics where unitary operators in form of unitary matrices have key meanings. Unitary matrices are the basis of calculations in quantum computers. This article presents some author's results, which show that matrix forms of the representation of structured systems of molecular-genetic alphabets can be considered as sets of sparse unitary matrices related with phenomenologic features of the degeneracy of the genetic code. These sparse unitary matrices have orthogonal systems of functions in their rows and columns. A complementarity exists among some unitary genetic matrices in relation each other.  Decompositions of numeric genetic matrices into sets of sparse unitary matrices are connected with the logical operation of modulo-2 addition used in quantum computers as well. Tensor (or Kronecker)  families of unitary genetic matrices with their fractal-like properties are also considered. The described results are discussed in the frame of development of quantum-information approaches for modeling genetic systems.
A Theoretical Model to Explain the Symptoms and Progression of Schizophrenia
Authors: Overholt Michael
Published: October 2018

Through the use of a simplified model of consciousness this paper illustrates the symptoms of schizophrenia linked to neocortical structures and functions.  It makes the case that the bewildering and varied presentation of symptoms in schizophrenia can be analyzed and explained using such models.  The model is used to illustrate the central thesis of the paper, that schizophrenia is a disorder of neurogenesis which leads to progressive neurochemical, functional and neurophysiological changes that create the characteristic behaviors of the disease.
Communities of Practice Approach for Knowledge Management Systems
Authors: Venkatraman Sitalakshmi , Ramanathan Venkat
Published: October 2018

In this digital world, organisations are facing global competition as well as manpower pressures leading towards knowledge economy, which heavily impacts on their local and international businesses. The trend is to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing to cope with these problems. With the advancement of technologies and social engineering that can connect people in virtual world across time and distance, several organisations are embarking on knowledge management (KM) systems, implementing community of practice (CoP) approach. However, virtual communities are relatively new paradigms, and there are several challenges to their successful implementation from an organisation’s point of interest. There is lack of CoP implementation framework that can cater to today’s dynamic business and sustainability requirements. To fill the gap in literature, this paper develops a practical framework for a CoP implementation with a view to align KM strategy with business strategy of an organization. It explores the different steps of building, sharing and using tacit and explicit knowledge in CoPs by applying Wiig KM cycle. It proposes a practical CoP implementation framework that adopts the Benefits-Tools-Organisation-People-Process (BTOPP) model in addressing the key questions surrounding each of the BTOPP elements with a structured approach. Finally, it identifies key challenges such as organizational culture and performance measurements, and provides practical recommendations to overcome them for a successful CoP implementation.
HIV and Patient Monitoring in Malawi
Authors: Williams Brian
Published: October 2018

Malawi has developed an excellent, nation-wide system for monitoring people infected with HIV and keeping track of key epidemic markers. Their success lies in two things: the focus on simplicity and the use of data collection not only to track the epidemic and identify problems but also to give regular feedback and support to every clinic in the country. This achievement is the more remarkable given that Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking 190 out of 194 countries by GDP, but has one of the most severe epidemics of HIV in the world, ranking 9th out of 168 countries by HIV prevalence. We first discuss the current state and likely future epidemic trends in Malawi: unless we know where we are and where we are going we cannot decide what to do or how to do it to in order to achieve a better outcome. We then discuss the history and development of Malawi’s patient monitoring system, as reported in their Integrated HIV Program Reports,ix which have been published quarterly since the beginning of 2004. We consider the current state of patient monitoring and support as reflected in the most recent report for the third quarter (Q3) of 2016 and comment on some of the questions that this raises. Finally, we consider ways in which the current system could be improved by strengthening Malawi’s analytical capacity and making better use of this unique data set. The focus here is on HIV in adultsv because if ART is initiated early in all adults living with HIV this should include testing all pregnant women for HIV and starting them on treatment immediately. However, PMTCT is especially important and care must be given to reducing MTCT and identifying the long-term child survivors of mother-to-child transmission and this demands a complementary assessment. There is an ongoing debate about the relative merits of treatment and prevention in reducing transmission and it should be made clear that the primary reason for starting people on treatment early is that it is in the best interest of the individual patient to start treatment as soon as possible after becoming infected. Allowing a person’s immune system to deteriorate to any degree is not consistent with the clinician’s commitment to ‘first do no harm’ and even those with the highest CD4+ cell count are at a substantially increased risk of death. What matters, therefore, is to get as many people as possible onto ART, ensure that they remain virally suppressed, and consider prevention in this context.
Influence of Bitumen Type and Asphalt Mixture Composition on Low-temperature Strength Properties
Authors: Pszczola Marek , Szydlowski Cezary
Published: October 2018

In regions with low-temperature action transverse cracks can appear in asphalt pavements as a result of thermal stresses that exceed the fracture strength of materials used in asphalt layers. To better understand thermal cracking phenomenon, strength properties of different asphalt mixtures were investigated. Four test methods were used to assess the influence of bitumen type and mixture composition on tensile strength properties of asphalt mixtures: tensile strength using the Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Test (TSRST) and the Uniaxial Tension Stress Test (UTST), flexural strength using the Bending Beam Test (BBT) and fracture toughness using the Semi-Circular Bending Test (SCB). The strength reserve behavior of tested asphalt mixtures was assessed as well. The influence of cooling rate on strength reserve was investigated and correlations between results from different test methods were also analyzed and discussed. It was observed that the type of bitumen is a factor of crucial importance to low-temperature properties of the tested asphalt concretes. This conclusion was proved by all test methods that were used. It was also observed that the level of cooling rate influences the strength reserve and, in consequence, resistance to low-temperature cracking. It was concluded that reasonably good correlations were observed between strength results for the UTST, BBT and SCB test methods.
Reusability of SPE and Sb-Mmodified SPE Sensors for Trace Pb(II) Determination
Authors: Finšgar Matjaž , Majer David , Maver Uroš , Maver Tina
Published: October 2018

In this work, unmodified screen-printed electrode (bare SPE) and Sb-film modified SPE (SbFSPE) sensors were employed for the analysis of trace amounts of Pb(II) in non-deaerated water solutions. The modified electrode was performed in situ in 0.5 mg/L Sb(III) and 0.01 M HCl. The methodology was validated for an accumulation potential of –1.1 V vs. Ag/AgCl and an accumulation time of 60 s. A comparative analysis of bare SPE and SbFSPE showed that the detection and quantification limits decrease for the bare SPE. The method with the bare SPE showed a linear response in the 69.8–368.4 µg/L concentration range, whereas linearity for the SbFSPE was in the 24.0–319.1 µg/L concentration range. This work also reports the reason why the multiple standard addition method instead of a linear calibration curve for Pb(II) analysis should be employed. Furthermore, the analytical method employing SbFSPE was found to be more accurate and precise compared to the use of bare SPE when sensors were employed for the first time, however this performance changed significantly when these sensors were reused in the same manner. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used for the first time to analyse the electrochemical response of sensors after being used for multiple successive analyses. Surface characterisation before and after multiple successive uses of bare SPE and SbFSPE sensors, with atomic force microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy, showed sensor degradation. The interference effect of Cd(II), Zn(II), As(III), Fe(II), Na(I), K(I), Ca(II), Mg(II), NO3– Bi(III), Cu(II), Sn(II), and Hg(II) on the Pb(II) stripping signal was also studied. Finally, the application of SbFSPE was tested on a real water sample (from a local river), which showed high precision (RSD = 8.1%, n = 5) and accurate results.
Molecular Characterization of a Tonoplast Na+/H+ Antiporter from Iris Lactea
Authors: Guo Qiang , Tian Xiaoxia , Mao Peichun , Meng Lin
Published: October 2018

Na+ compartmentalization into vacuoles is one of the effective strategies for adaptation of halophytes to saline environments. The tonoplast Na+/H+ antiporter (NHX) has been proved to be involved in the compartmentalization of Na+ into vacuoles to alleviate Na+ toxicity in cytoplasm. However, the function of NHX in halophyte Iris lactea is still unclear under salt stress. In this study, a significant positive correlation was observed between Na+ accumulations and IlNHX expression levels in shoots and roots under different concentrations of NaCl (0-200 mM), indicating IlNHX might be involved in Na+ accumulation of I. lactea in response to salt stress. More important, IlNHX was specifically localized to the tonoplast. Transgenic tobacco plants expressing IlNHX grew better and showed higher salinity tolerance under salt (200 mM NaCl) stress than those of wild type (WT) plants. Compared to WT plants, transgenic tobacco plants accumulated more Na+ and K+ and maintained higher K+/Na+ ratios in tissues by salt stress, accompanied by the reduction of chlorophyll loss and lipid peroxidation in the presence of salt. Interestingly, we found that transgenic tobacco plants exhibited markedly higher tonoplast H+-ATPase activity relative to WT plants subjected to salt. Overall, overexpression of IlNHX in tobacco could compartmentalize excessive Na+ into vacuoles to keep the cytosolic K+/Na+ balance by enhanced tonoplast proton pumps activity, which would be contributed to maintain K+ and Na+ homeostasis, to improve photosynthesis efficiency and to protect cell membrane integrity under salt stress.
Magnetic Alginate / Chitosan Nanoparticles for Targeted Delivery of Curcumin into Human Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Song Wenxing , Su Xing , Gregory David , Li Wei , Cai Zhiqiang , Zhao Xiubo
Published: October 2018

Curcumin is a promising anti-cancer drug but its applications in cancer therapy are limited due to its poor solubility, short half-life and low bioavailability. In this study, curcumin loaded magnetic alginate / chitosan nanoparticles were fabricated to improve the bioavailability, uptake efficiency and cytotoxicity of curcumin to MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Alginate and chitosan were deposited on Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles based on their electrostatic properties. The sizes of the nanoparticles (120-200 nm) were within the optimum range for drug delivery. Sustained curcumin release was obtained use the nanoparticles with the ability to control the curcumin release rate by altering the number of chitosan and alginate layers. Confocal fluorescence microscopy results showed that targeted delivery of curcumin with the aid of magnetic field were achieved. The FACS assay indicated that MDA-MB-231 cells treated with curcumin loaded nanoparticles had a 3-6 folds uptake efficiency to those treated with free curcumin. MTT assay indicated that the curcumin loaded nanoparticles exhibited significantly higher cytotoxicity toward MDA-MB-231 cells than toward HDF cells. The sustained release profiles, enhanced uptake efficiency and cytotoxicity to cancer cells as well as the targeting potential make MACPs a promising candidate for cancer therapy.
Inverse Multiquadratic Functions as Basis for Rectangular Collocation Method to Solve the Vibrational Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Kamath Aditya , Manzhos Sergei
Published: October 2018

We explore the use of inverse multiquadratic (IMQ) functions as basis functions when solving the vibrational Schrödinger equation with the rectangular collocation method. The quality of the vibrational spectrum of formaldehyde (in six dimensions) is compared to that obtained using Gaussian basis functions when using different numbers of width-optimized IMQ functions. The effects of the ratio of the number of collocation points to the number of basis functions and of the choice of the IMQ exponent are studied. We show that the IMQ basis can be used with parameters where the IMQ function is not integrable. We find that the quality of the spectrum with IMQ basis functions is somewhat lower that that with a Gaussian basis when the basis size is large and for a range of IMQ exponents. The IMQ functions are, however, advantageous when a small number of functions is used or with a small number of collocation points e.g. when using square collocation.
Approximation Operator Based on Neighborhood Systems
Authors: Wang Pei , Wu Qingjun , He Jiali , Shang Xiao
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we propose a new covering-based set in which the lower and the upper approximation operation are defined by neighborhood systems. We discuss this new type of covering-based set systematically in two steps. First, we study the basic properties of this covering-based set, such as the properties of normality, contraction, and monotone. Second, we discuss the relationship between the new type of covering-based set and the other ten sets proposed.
Experimental and Numerical Studies of Hydrodynamics of Gas Flow through Orthogonal Networks
Authors: Wałowski Grzegorz
Published: October 2018

Simulation programs contain Computational Fluid Dynamics - CFD codes and are a useful tool used for gas flow through porous materials. Conducting numerical simulations allows for detailed analysis of hydrodynamic phenomena. The results of numerical modeling should always be verifiable based on experimental data. Only their compliance with the results of experimental tests is a determinant of the correctness of the applied method. As part of the work, experimental studies of hydrodynamics of gas flow through an isotropic porous material were carried out and numerical simulation for material of the same shape was used. In the CFD modeling Kolmogorov's hypothesis for the transport of kinetic energy of turbulence k and transport of dissipation rate of kinetic energy of turbulence ε was used.
Towards the Unification of Quantum Dynamics, Relativity and Living Organisms
Authors: Tozzi Arturo , Peters James F. , Torday John S.
Published: October 2018

The unexploited unification of quantum physics, general relativity and biology is a keystone that paves the way towards a better understanding of the whole of Nature.  Here we propose a mathematical approach that introduces the problem in terms of group theory.  We build a cyclic groupoid (a nonempty set with a binary operation defined on it) that encompasses the three frameworks as subsets, representing two of their most dissimilar experimental results, i.e., 1) the commutativity detectable both in our macroscopic relativistic world and in biology; 2) and the noncommutativity detectable both in the microscopic quantum world and in biology.  This approach leads to a mathematical framework useful in the investigation of the three apparently irreconcilable realms.  Also, we show how cyclic groupoids encompassing quantum mechanics, relativity theory and biology might be equipped with dynamics that can be described by paths on the twisted cylinder of a Möbius strip.   
Enzymatically Active Polydopamine @ Alkaline Phosphatase Nanoparticles Produced by NaIO4 Oxidation of Dopamine
Authors: El Yakhlifi Salima , Ihiawakrim Dris , Ersen Ovidiu , Ball Vincent
Published: October 2018

Polydopamine (PDA) deposition, obtained from the oxidation of dopamine and other catecholamines is an universal way to coat all known materials with a conformal coating which can subsequently be functionalyzed at will. The structural analogies between polydopamine and eumelanin, the black-brown pigment of the skin, incited to produce stable polydopamine nanoparticles in solution instead of amorphous precipitates obtained from the oxidation of dopamine. Herein, we demonstrate that size controlled and colloidally stable PDA based nanoparticles can be obtained in acidic conditions, where spontaneous auto-oxidation of dopamine is suppressed, using sodium periodate as the oxidant and a protein like alkaline phosphatase as a templating agent. The size of the PDA@Alp  nanoparticles depends on the dopamine/enzyme ratio and the obtained particles display the enzymatic activity of alkaline phosphatase with an activity extending up to two weeks after particle synthesis. The PDA@ alkaline phosphatase (Alp) nanoparticles can be engineered in polyelectrolyte multilayered films to potentially design model biosensors.
Performance of UWB Wireless Telecommunication Positioning for Disaster Relief Communication Environment Securing
Authors: Kim Donghyun
Published: October 2018

When an earthquake or a large fire has occurred, it is difficult to secure communication networks for rescue in the building due to the destruction of commercial communication networks. Although analog radio systems such as VHF (very high frequency) and UHF (ultra-high frequency) are used for rescue operation in general, communication failure occurs in closed spaces, causing difficulties in smooth rescue operations. When the communication infrastructures have been destroyed in a building in the disaster, an emergency wireless telecommunication environment should be constructed to secure a safer disaster response environment. In this study, along with comparison of the performances of diverse communication frequencies, UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) wireless telecommunication networks were evaluated under five building indoor environment conditions including open spaces. UWB communication modules were fabricated to satisfy the IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.15.4a standard performance to measure distances in which communications are possible according to the indoor environment for each of six channels with different UWB communication frequencies. The results indicated that the distances in which communications are possible for each the six channels were average 15.5 m, maximum 20 m in open spaces; average 17.33 m, maximum 20 m in corridors; average 15.3 m, maximum 20 m in indoor office environments with office fixtures; average 4.33 m, maximum 6 m in vertical spaces of stairs; and average 6.5 m, maximum 17 m in closed horizontal spaces with a fire door. In this case, the communication performance and distance performance were shown to be the most excellent at a frequency (Centre Frequency) of 6489.6 and a band of 5980.3 – 6998.9 MHz, which is UWB 7ch. In conclusion, it is judged that if UWB communication modules are installed in the disaster area at intervals of 20 m and multi-channels are used, communication environments can be constructed even in closed spaces
Risk of Exclusion in People with Disabilities in Spain: Determinants of Health and Poverty
Authors: Belzunegui-Eraso Angel , Pastor-Gosálbez Inma , Puig-Andreu Xavier , Valls-Fonayet Francesc
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we analyze data from the 2012 Encuesta de Integración Social y Salud (Social Integration and Health Survey) of the Instituto Nacional de Estadística (Spanish National Institute of Statistics) to obtain profiles created by combining disability, poverty and social exclusion. We hypothesize that the probability that people will experience social exclusion increases if they have a disability, chronic illness or limitation in conducting everyday activities, and that this probability is greater for women than for men. To conduct our analysis, we constructed a social exclusion model based on a series of social determinants that acts as a dependent variable. In this context, social exclusion is understood to go beyond the concept of financial poverty. We performed bivariate analyses, in which we calculated the Odds Ratios (OR) for certain variables considered to be predictors of social exclusion. We also performed a means comparison test and an ANOVA test to observe differences between individuals with recognized disability and those without. Finally, we conducted logistic regression analysis to determine which vulnerability profiles are most likely to experience a situation of social exclusion. We also discuss the limitations of our study, and suggest areas in, which the relationships between health, social exclusion and disability can be further investigated.
A New ANFIS-based Peak Power Curtailment in Microgrids Including PV Units and BESSs
Authors: Nikolovski Srete , Reza Baghaee Hamid , Mlakić Dragan
Published: October 2018

One of the most crucial and economically beneficial tasks for energy customer is peak load curtailment. On account of the fast response of renewable energy resources (RERs) such as photovoltaic (PV) units and battery energy storage system (BESS), this task is closer to be efficiently implemented. Depends on the customer peak load demand and energy characteristics, the feasibility of this strategy may warry. When adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) is exploited for forecasting, it can provide many benefits to address the above-mentioned issues and facilitate its easy implementation, with short calculating time and re-trainability. This paper introduces a data driven forecasting method based on fuzzy logic for optimized peak load reduction. First, the amount of energy generated by PV is forecasted using ANFIS which conducts output trend, and then, the BESS capacity is calculated according to the forecasted results. The trend of the load power is then decomposed in Cartesian plane into two parts, left and right from load peak, searching for BESS capacity equal. Network switching sequence over consumption is provided by a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) with respect to BESS capacity and PV energy output. Finally, to prove the effectiveness of the proposed ANFIS-based peak shaving method, offline digital time-domain simulations have been performed on a real-life practical test micro grid system in MATLAB/Simulink environment and the results have been experimentally verified by testing on a practical micro grid system with real-life data obtained from smart meter and also, compared with several previously-reported methods.
Nanoemulsion-Enabled Oral Delivery of Novel Anticancer ω-3 Fatty Acid Derivatives
Authors: Garrastazu Pereira Gabriela , Rawling Tristan , Pozzoli Michele , Pazderka Curtis , Chen Yongjuan , Dunstan Colin R. , Murray Michael , Sonvico Fabio
Published: October 2018

Lipid-based drugs are emerging as an interesting class of novel anticancer drugs with the potential to target specific cancer cell metabolic pathway linked to their proliferation and invasiveness. In particular, ω−3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) derivatives such as epoxides and their bioisosteres have demonstrated the potential to suppress growth and promote apoptosis in triple-negative human breast cancer cells MDA-MB-231. In this study 16-(4’-chloro-3’-trifluorophenyl)carbamoylamino]hexadecanoic acid (ClFPh-CHA), an anticancer lipid derived from ω−3,17,18-epoxyeicosanoic acid, was formulated as a stable nanoemulsion with size around 150 nm and narrow droplet size distribution (PDI<0.200) through phase-inversion emulsification process followed by high pressure homogenization in view of an oral administration. The ClFPh-CHA-loaded nanoemulsions were able to significantly decrease the relative tumor volume in mice bearing an intramammary tumor xenograft at all doses tested (2.5, 10 and 40 mg/kg) after 32 days of daily oral administration. Furthermore, absolute tumor weight was decreased to 50% of untreated control at 10 and 40 mg/kg, while intraperitoneal administration could achieve a significant reduction only at the highest dose of 40 mg/kg. Results suggest that oral administration of ClFPh-CHA formulated as a nanoemulsion has a sufficient bioavailability to provide an anticancer effect in mice and that the activity is at least equal if not superior to that obtained by a conventional parenteral administration of equivalent doses of the same drug.
Prebiotics in infant nutrition: a critical appraisal
Authors: Morelli Lorenzo , Patrone Vania , Pietrobelli Angelo
Published: October 2018

Abstract: Supplementation of infant formula with ingredients potentially able to manage, in a way positive for the host, the gut microbiota of infants, is nowadays widely used by infant food producers. The impact of this class of compounds, named prebiotics, on gut microbiota composition, was initially measured on the enrichment of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus spp., but the use of culture-independent analytical techniques has allowed to establish that a larger number of intestinal microorganisms are affected by the ingestion of prebiotics. However, despite a relevant number of scientific publications, actually there is no consensus on the amount of prebiotics to be administered daily, the potentially different actions exerted by prebiotics which differ in biochemical structures, as well as the impact of different percentages of the same prebiotics when used in mixtures and/or combination. This paper is aimed to critically review the available data on the use of prebiotics in infant formula, with special attention paid to identify a link between, the dosage used, the mixture composition and the observed outcomes, keeping in mind the influences in nutrition quality and growth influence.