bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic analysis of α-synuclein knockdown after T3 spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Zeng Hong , Yu Bao-fu , Liu Nan , Yang Yan-yan , Xing Hua-yi , Liu Xiao-xie , Zhou Mouwang
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background
Endogenous α-synuclein (α-Syn) is involved in many pathophysiological processes in the secondary injury stage after acute spinal cord injury (SCI), and the mechanism governing these functions has not been thoroughly elucidated to date. This research aims to characterize the effect of α-Syn knockdown on transcriptional levels after SCI and to determine the mechanisms underlying α-Syn activity based on RNA-seq.
Result
The establishment of a rat model of lentiviral vector-mediated knockdown of α-Syn in Sprague-Dawley rats with T3 spinal cord contusion (LV_SCI group). The results of the RNA-seq analysis showed that there were 337 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the SCI group and the LV_SCI group, and 153 DEGs specific to LV_SCI between the (SCI vs LV_SCI) and (SCI vs CON) comparisons . The top 20 biological transition terms were identified by Gene ontology (GO) analysis. The Kyoto Gene and Genomic Encyclopedia (KEGG) analysis showed that the LV_SCI group significantly upregulated the cholinergic synaptic & nicotine addiction and the neuroactive ligand receptor interaction signaling pathway. Enriched chord analysis analyzes key genes. Further cluster analysis, gene and protein interaction network analysis and RT-qPCR results showed that Chrm2 and Chrnb2 together significantly in both pathways. The proliferation of muscarinic cholinergic receptor subtype 2 (Chrm2) and nicotinic cholinergic receptor subtype β2 (Chrnb2), and the neurogenesis were elevated in the injury site of LV_SCI group by immunofluorescence. Further by subcellular localization, the LV_SCI group enhanced the expression of Chrnb2 at the cell membrane.
Conclusion
Knockdown of α-Syn after SCI enhance motor function and promote neurogenesis probably through enhancing cholinergic signaling pathways and neuroreceptor interactions. This study not only further clarifies the understanding of the mechanism of knockdown of α-Syn on SCI but also helps to guide the treatment strategy for SCI.
Three Easily-Implementable Changes Reduce Median Door-To-Needle Time for Intravenous Thrombolysis by 23 Minutes
Authors: Tran Demi , Zhu Zhu , Shafie Mohammad , Abcede Hermelinda , Stradling Dana , Yu Wengui
Published: November 2019

Background: The benefit of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) for acute ischemic stroke is time dependent. Despite great effort, the median door-to-needle time (DNT) was 60 minutes at the United States stroke centers. We investigated the effect of a simple quality improvement initiative on DNT for IVT.
Methods: This is a single-center study of patients treated with IVT between 2013 and 2017. A simple quality improvement initiative was implemented in January 2015 to allow the Stroke team to manage hypertension in the emergency room, to make decision for IVT before getting blood test results unless patients were taking oral anticoagulants, and to give IVT in the CT suite. Baseline characteristics, DNT and outcomes at hospital discharge were compared between pre- and post-intervention groups.
Results: Ninety and 136 patients were treated with IVT in pre- and post-intervention groups, respectively. The rate of IVT was significantly higher in the post-intervention group (20% vs. 14.4%, p=0.007). The median DNT with interquartile range (IQR) was reduced significantly by 23 minutes (63[53-81] vs. 40[29-53], p<0.001) with more patients in the post-intervention group receiving IVT within 60 minutes (81.6% vs. 46.7%) and 45 minutes (64.0% vs.17.8%). There was no significant difference in symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage rate (1.5% vs. 1.1%), functional independence at discharge (modified Rankin Scale 0-1, 29.4% vs. 23.3%), and hospital mortality (7.4% vs. 6.7%) between the 2 groups.
Conclusions: Three easily-implementable quality improvement initiative increases IVT rate and reduces DNT significantly without increasing the rate of IVT-related complications in our comprehensive stroke center.
Sudden intrauterine unexplained death: time to adopt uniform postmortem investigative guidelines?
Authors: Lavezzi Anna , Piscioli Francesco , Pusiol Teresa , Jorizzo Gianfranco , Ferrero Stefano
Published: November 2019

Background: Worldwide approximately 2.6 million are stillborn, mostly occurring in developing countries. In the great part these deaths are inexplicable. The evenness and standardisation of the diagnostic criteria are prerequisites to understand their pathogenesis. The core goal of this article is to propose new evidence based investigative post-mortem guidelines that should be adopted in all the Institutions especially when a fetal death, after a routine autopsy procedure, is diagnosed as “unexplained”. The proposed protocol is mainly focused on the anatomopathological examination of the autonomic nervous system and in particular of the brainstem where the main centers that control vital functions are located.

Methods: Updated investigative guidelines for the examination of unexplained stillbirths, prevalently focused on the histological examination of the brainstem, where the main centers that are involved in monitoring the vital functions are located, are here presented. A section of this protocol concerns the Immunohistochemical evaluation of specific functional markers such as the neuronal nuclear antigen, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, serotonin, orexin, apoptosis and gliosis. The important role of risk factors, having regard in particular to maternal smoking and air pollution is also contemplated in these guidelines.
Results: Specific morphological and/or functional alterations of vital brainstem structures have been found with high incidence in over 100 cases of unexplained fetal death sent to the “Lino Rossi Research Center” of the Milan University according to the Italian law. These alterations were rarely detected in a group of control cases.
Conclusions: We hope this protocol can be adopted in all the Institutions notably for the examination of unexplained fetal deaths, in order to make uniform investigations. This will lead to identify a plausible explanation of the pathogenetic mechanism behind the unexplained fetal deaths and to design preventive strategies to decrease the incidence of these very distressing events for both parents and clinicians.
The effect of Xuanbai Chengqi decoction on patients with pneumonia-derived sepsis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jun Zhang , Yu Yi , Zheng Bojun , Jing Huang
Published: November 2019

INTRODUCTION We wish to investigate the efficacy of Xuanbai Chengqi decoction (XCD) on management of pneumonia-derived sepsis.METHODS AND ANALYSIS A single-blind, randomised controlled clinical trial will be conducted involving 90 patients with pneumonia-derived sepsis. Participants will be randomised at a 1:1 ratio to receive XCD (experimental arm) or the same amount of saline treatment (control arm). The intervention will comprise one session/day for 1 week. The primary outcomes will be 28-day mortality, and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum 1, 3 and 7 days after treatment completion with respect to baseline levels. Secondary outcomes will be the symptom score of traditional Chinese medicine, duration of parenteral nutrition, and prevalence of complications. Measurements will be taken at baseline, 1, 3 and 7 days during the intervention, after 28 days after completing the intervention. Adverse events between arms will be evaluated.
Transcriptome analysis of harvest blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Duke’) in response to cold stress
Authors: Zhang Fan , Ji ShuJuan , Wei BaoDong , Cheng Shunchang , Hao Jia , Wang YaJuan , Wang SiYao , Zhou Qian
Published: November 2019

Background Blueberry ( Vaccinium spp. ) is a small berry with high economic value. Although cold storage can extend the storage time of blueberry to more than 60 days, it leads to chilling injury (CI) displayed as pedicle pits; and the samples of 0°C-30 days was the critical point of chilling injury (CI). However, little is known about the mechanism and the molecular basis response to cold stress in blueberry have not been explained definitely.Methods To comprehensively reveal the CI mechanisms in response to cold stress, we performed high-throughput RNA Seq analysis to investigate the gene regulation network in blueberries at different storage temperatures (20°C and 0°C) in this study. At the same time, the pitting and decay rate, electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde (MDA) and proline content were also measured.Results High-throughput transcriptome sequences were assembled into 35,060 unique transcripts with an N50 length of 1,348bp. A total of 1,167 up-regulated and 685 down-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were annotated and classified between the CI group and control. Forty-five cold-induced transcription factor (TF) families containing 1,023 TFs were identified. The DEGs indicated in biological processes such as stress responses; cell wall metabolism; abscisic acid, gibberellin, membrane lipid, energy metabolism, cellular components, and molecular functions were significantly responsed to low temperature storage. The transcriptional level of 40 DEGs were verified by qRT-PCR.Conclusions The harvest cold storage leads serious CI in blueberries, which substantially decreases the quality, storability and consumer acceptance. In our research, the physiological changes during the cold storage were determined; the biological processes such as stress responses, hormone metabolic processes were significantly affected by CI. Overall, the results obtained here are valuable for preventing pitting under cold storage and could serve as new targets for enhancing blueberry fruit post harvest storage.
Lapatinib in combination with capecitabine versus continued use of trastuzumab in breast cancer patients with trastuzumab-resistance: a real-world study
Authors: Yang fan , Huang Xiang , Sun Chunxiao , Li Jianbin , Wang Biyun , Yan Min , Jin Feng , Wang Haibo , Zhang Jin , Fu Peifen , Zeng Tianyu , Wang Jian , Li Wei , Li Yongfei , Yang Mengzhu , Li Jun , Wu Hao , Fu Ziyi , Yin Yongmei , jiang zefei
Published: November 2019

Background: The efficacy and safety of lapatinib plus capecitabine (LC or LX) versus trastuzumab plus chemotherapy in patients with HER-positive metastatic breast cancer who were resistant to trastuzumab is largely unknown. Methods: we retrospectively analyzed breast cancer patients who began the treatment with regimen of lapatinib plus capecitabine (LC or LX) or trastuzumab beyond progression (TBP) at eight hospitals between May 2010 and October 2017. Results: Among 554 patients who had developed resistance to trastuzumab, the median PFS was 6.77 months in the LX group compared with 5.6 months in the TBP group (hazard ratio 0.804; 95% CI, 0.67 to 0.96; P=0.019). The central nervous system progression rate during treatment was 5.9% in LX group and 12.5% in TBP group, respectively (P=0.018). PIK3CA and TP53 are the most common mutations in resistant patients, but do not significantly differ between primary resistant cancers and secondary resistant cancers. Conclusion: The combination of lapatinib and capecitabine has shown a prolonged PFS compared with TBP in patients who had progressed on trastuzumab.
Light alcohol drinking and the risk of developing cancer, a systematic review.
Authors: Ciardiello Davide , Caprio Giuseppe Gerardo , Picascia Desiree , Dallio Marcello , Vitiello PietroPaolo , Giunta Emilio Francesco , Falco Vincenzo De , Famiglietti Vincenzo , Martinelli Erika , Gravina Antonietta , Federico Alessandro , Ciardiello Fortunato , Loguercio Carmelina
Published: November 2019

Background: There is strong evidence that heavy alcohol consumption (>50g per day) is a risk factor for several disease, including cancer. However, the oncogenic role of light alcohol drinking (<12,5g per day) is still controversial. The purpose of this review is to assess whether the intake of a single daily dose of alcohol could determine an increased risk of malignancy onset. Methods: A systemic PubMed research of meta-analysis studies, using the keywords “light alcohol drinking”, “light alcohol consumption” and “cancer”, was done. We established a period of 15 years, in order to select the most recent evidences; exclusively meta-analysis that specified levels of alcohol intake were included in the review. Studies focused on biochemical, molecular and genetic aspects, as well as duplicate articles were excluded. Results: We included in this review 29 large meta-analysis; light alcohol drinking was not associated with an increased risk of occurrence of most cancers, with the exception of breast, prostate cancer and, with less evidence, melanoma. Furthermore, a protective role of alcohol assumption on the development of bladder, kidney ovarian cancer and Non Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL), has been described.Conclusions: We found that light alcohol drinking do not determine a higher risk for the insurgence of several malignancies, except for a light increase in the incidence of melanoma, breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.
Suppression of behavioral activity and hippocampal adrenaline caused by surgical stress in type 2 diabetes model mice
Authors: Nishimura Momoka , Nomura Yuki , Egi Moritoki , Obata Norihiko , Tsunoda Makoto , Mizobuchi Satoshi
Published: November 2019

Background In these days, the occurrence of neuropsychological complications during perioperative period has become the subject of discussion. Diabetes is indicated as one of the metabolic risk factors. Although the number of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) has been increasing, the pathophysiology of postoperative neuropsychological dysfunction in DM patient is still unclear. Recently, a deficiency of neurotransmitters, such as monoamines, was reported to be associated with mental disorders. Therefore, we investigated the effects of surgical stress on behavioral activity and the hippocampal noradrenaline (NA) level in type 2 diabetes mellitus model (T2DM) mice.Methods Eighty-four 6-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were divided into four groups (control, surgery control, T2DM, and surgery T2DM groups). T2DM mice were established by feeding a high fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks. At 14 weeks of age, fifteen mice in every group underwent a series of behavioral tests including an open field (OF) test, a novel objective recognition (NOR) test and a light-dark box (LD) test. In the surgery groups, open abdominal surgery with manipulation of intestine was performed 24 hours before the behavioral tests as a surgical stress. Hippocampal NA level was examined in six mice in each group by high-performance liquid chromatography. The data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test and P values less than 0.05 were considered significant.Results The T2DM group showed significantly increased explorative activity in the NOR test (P = 0.0016) and significantly increased transition in the LD test (P = 0.043) compared with those in the control group before surgery. In T2DM mice, surgical stress resulted in decreased total distance in the OF test, decreased explorative activity in the NOR test, and decreased transition in the LD test (OF: P = 0.015, NOR: P = 0.009, LD: P = 0.007) and decreased hippocampal NA (P = 0.015), although they were not revealed in control mice.Conclusion T2DM mice by feeding a HFD showed increased behavioral activities, and surgical stress in T2DM mice caused postoperative hypoactivity and reduction of hippocampal NA level.
Short-term Preemergence Herbicide Adsorption by Mulch Materials and Impacts on Weed Control
Authors: Saha Debalina , Marble S. Christopher , Pearson Brian , Pérez Héctor , MacDonald Gregory , Odero D. Calvin
Published: November 2019

The objective of this research was to determine how mulch type affects adsorption and efficacy of commonly used preemergence herbicides in nurseries and landscapes. Nursery containers were filled with standard potting media and mulched with either pine bark (PB) mini-nuggets (mixed Pinus sp.), pine straw (PS; mixed Pinus sp.), or shredded eucalyptus hardwood (HW; Eucalyptus sp.) at a 2-inch depth. Herbicides including dimethenamid-P + pendimethalin (applied as a tank mix), prodiamine, and indaziflam were applied to mulched containers, watered in, and the mulch was subsequently removed 3 days later. Seeds of garden spurge (Euphorbia hirta), large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis), and eclipta (Eclipta prostrata) were then seeded and used as bioassay species for dimethenamid-P + pendimethalin, prodiamine, and indaziflam, respectively. Chemical assays were also performed using a separate set of pots mulched with PB at 2 inches and treated with the same herbicides. Results from the bioassay experiment showed PS was the only mulch type that did not significantly decrease efficacy of any applied herbicide. Chemical assays showed only 34% of the applied dimethenamid-P reached the soil surface as evidenced by chemical assay, but more dimethenamid-P moved through PB than did pendimethalin (12%) or prodiamine (17%), which adsorbed more strongly. Overall results suggest preemergence herbicides will be strongly adsorbed to organic mulch. However, as mulch is typically more effective on weeds that germinate below the mulch layer, this does not automatically result in reduced efficacy from herbicide + mulch combinations, and the addition of a preemergence herbicide may be effective in reducing weed germination within or on top of the mulch layer.
Measurement of Genetic Diversity of Chinese Seashore Paspalum Resources through Morphological and Sequence-related Amplified Polymorphism Analysis
Authors: Liu Yan , Guo Hailin , Wang Yi , Shi Jingang , Li Dandan , Wang Zhiyong , Liu Jianxiu
Published: November 2019

Seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum) is a notable warm-season turfgrass. Certain germplasm resources are distributed in the southern regions of China. The objectives of this study were to investigate the genetic diversity and genetic variation of Chinese seashore paspalum resources. Morphological characteristics and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers were used to assess genetic relationships and genetic variation among 36 germplasm resources from China and six cultivars from the United States. The results showed significant variation for 13 morphological characteristics among 42 tested seashore paspalum accessions, and that the phenotypic cv was, in turn, turf height > turf density > internode length > inflorescence density > leaf width > reproductive branch height > spikelet width > leaf length > spikelet number > inflorescence length > internode diameter > inflorescence width > spikelet length. According to the morphological characteristics and cluster analysis, 42 seashore paspalum accessions were divided into six morphological types. In total, 374 clear bands were amplified using 30 SRAP primer combinations; among these bands, 321 were polymorphic with 85.83% polymorphism. SRAP marker cluster analysis showed that 42 seashore paspalum accessions were grouped into seven major groups, with a genetic similarity coefficient ranging from 0.4385 to 0.9893 and genetic distance values ranging from 0.0108 to 0.8244. The high level of genetic diversity occurred among Chinese germplasm, and the genetic distance was relatively high between Chinese germplasm and cultivars introduced from the United States. The patterns in morphological trait variations and genetic diversity will be useful for the further exploitation and use of Chinese seashore paspalum resources.
Variations in Sugar and Organic Acid Content of Fruit Harvested from Different Vaccinium uliginosum Populations in the Changbai Mountains of China
Authors: Wang Yu , Yang Haobo , Zhong Shuai , Liu Xin , Li Tong , Zong Chengwen
Published: November 2019

Sugar and organic acid contents as well as sugar-to-acid ratio of fruit are important factors affecting fruit quality and processing. In this study, we compared sugar and organic acid contents of Vaccinium uliginosum (bog bilberry) fruit harvested from 100 plants across 10 wild populations growing in the Changbai Mountains of China. Correlation of sugar and acid contents with the spatial distribution of these populations was accessed. Germplasm with high sugar and low acid with potential for use in future breeding was also identified. Results showed that sugar and organic acid contents varied among different V. uliginosum populations in the Changbai Mountains. Fructose (18.60–38.54 mg·g−1) and glucose (15.77–35.08 mg·g−1) were the main sugars, whereas quinic (16.06–20.97 mg·g−1), citric (10.39–14.96 mg·g−1), and malic (4.28–7.47 mg·g−1) acids were the main organic acids in V. uliginosum. The first population collected in the Dongfanghong forest farm (lat. 42°00′N, long. 128°03′E) showed the highest average sugar content and sugar-to-acid ratio among the sampled populations. Moreover, total sugar content and sugar-to-acid ratio of Sample 7—Population 1, which is located at Manjiang forest farm (lat. 41°09′N, long. 127°05′E) was much higher than the other 99 samples, making this sample representative of important germplasm for breeding. Altitude and latitude were important environmental factors affecting sugar and organic acid contents. Fructose, glucose, and total sugar contents were positively correlated with altitude and negatively correlated with latitude. Oxalic acid content and sugar-to-acid ratio were positively correlated with altitude, and there was no significant correlation between organic acid contents and latitude.
On Orientation of Visually Impaired People in Public Space
Authors: KOMAR Beata
Published: November 2019

The topic of this paper focuses on orientation of visually impaired people in public space.

The purpose of the paper is to show the ways visually impaired people move and therefore, to show the barriers which hinder them to get someplace. An important element is to increase social awareness of the quality of public spaces so that they could be adapted to every user. The paper was written on the basis of literature analyses and the author’s own observation.
Health-Affirming Everyday Landscapes in Sustainable City. Theories and Tools
Authors: TROJANOWSKA Monika , SAS-BOJARSKA Aleksandra
Published: November 2019

As cities and urban population continue to grow, causing serious threats to public health, the development of health-affirming urban landscapes becomes even more important topic than ever before. The purpose of this paper is to answer the question which qualities of urban landscape make it the health-affirming landscape. In the first part of the paper, a concept of health-affirming landscapes and a modern approach to sustainable city design are examined. In the second part, the qualities of health-affirming urban landscape according to theories and research are discussed. The tools, which might be applied to urban design to create health-affirming landscapes are reviewed. The conclusions concern the need and possibilities to create health-affirming landscapes. The need for further research on impact of such landscapes on health and well-being of city dwellers is indicated.
Random Strength Parameters of Steel Corrugated Webs and Their Influence on the Resistance of Sin Plate Girders
Authors: BASIŃSKI Witold , KOWAL Zbigniew
Published: November 2019

In the study, the results of statistical investigations into random strength parameters of steel used to manufacture corrugated webs of SIN plate girders were discussed. The investigations were conducted on samples randomly collected from twenty SIN girders. The corrugated web of the girders was 2, 2.5 and 3 mm in thickness. The girders had been examined before statistical investigations were conducted. Based on the analysis, coefficients of variation of yield strength V
Re=D(R
e)/E(R
e) and partial factors of yield strength γ
m
were identified. The results were compared with factors γ
m
obtained from investigations into thin flat sheets [10]. The impact of yield strength and random cross-sectional area of folded web on the quantile of girder web resistance was shown. Taking into account random character of yield strength and web thickness offers a sensible approach to SIN girder design and computations.
Impact of the UV Lamp Power on the Formation of Swimming pool Water Treatment By-Products
Authors: KUDLEK Edyta , LEMPART Anna , DUDZIAK Mariusz , BUJAK Marta
Published: November 2019

The operation of swimming pools requires a constant monitoring of water quality parameters and protection of water against pathogens. This is implemented by various disinfection methods, among which the most commonly used are based on chlorine action supported by ozone or UV irradiation. The paper presents the comparison of the effectives of organic micropollutants decomposition occurring in swimming pool water during UV irradiation emitted by a 15 and 150 W UV lamp. The tests were conducted on real swimming pool water collected from a sport basin. The identification and the determination of micropollutants concentration were performed by the use of gas chromatography GC-MS (EI) preceded by solid-phase extraction SPE. It was shown that the concentration of micropollutants decreases with the increase in the irradiation time of pool water. The 150 W UV lamp allowed for an over 33% removal of micropollutants from the group of pharmaceuticals compounds (except for caffeine) and more than 76% decrease of other compounds, which belong to the group of personal care products additives, food additives and phthalates. In addition, it has been demonstrated that during the irradiation of such complex water matrixes as swimming pool water, a significant number of micropollutants degradation by-products were formed, which are not found in water before UV irradiation.
Coagulant Cost Optimization for Surface Water Coagulation Process
Authors: WOLSKA Małgorzata , MOŁCZAN Marek , SOLIPIWKO-PIEŚCIK Anna , URBAŃSKA-KOZŁOWSKA Halina
Published: November 2019

This paper presents the results of a study concerning application of different coagulants used in surface water coagulation process. Even though the use of this process is quite wide-spread and several different coagulants are used it would be vital to identify which coagulants are the most effective from the economical point of view. The choice of parameter, such as doses, contact time, speed of mixing are important for cost optimization while maintaining satisfactory results for WTP. Four of the most effective coagulants were taken to the second stage. Three of the four coagulants chosen for the second stage of the study were the same for both tests regardless at water quality parameters. The cost of the process depended above all on raw water contamination, and therefore the coagulant dosage.

An analysis of the results has shown that only the non pre-hydrolyzed coagulant allowed for high process effectiveness at low process costs. This coagulant was also the only one to require a pH correction after coagulation. However, this did not significantly increase the coagulation cost.
FIRE SAFETY IN THE BUILT-ENVIRONMENT: A CASE STUDY IN A RESIDENTIAL FACILITY
Authors: HAMIDA Mohammad B. , HASSANAIN Mohammad A.
Published: November 2019

In light of the spread of residential fires worldwide, this paper aims to identify the current fire safety code requirements for providing the minimum level of safety in residential facilities, hence, mitigating the risk of fire occurrence. The paper also presents the findings of a case study to demonstrate the compliance level of a sample residential facility, with code requirements. The case study building is composed of three floors and a basement. It can accommodate 214 persons. It was built in 2013, and it is located in Khobar, Saudi Arabia. The study revealed that the assessed facility had an adequate distribution of fire detection and notification systems. Moreover, the level of the housekeeping practices and concentration of hazardous material was found to be acceptable. However, the means of egress, fire doors and fire suppression systems were not up to code requirements. The study recommended measures to improve the level of safety in the building. These include increasing the number of fire exits; installing sprinkler heads on each floor; distributing fire extinguishers sufficiently; and installing fire rated doors. This study aims at raising awareness about the incidences of fires accidents in residential facilities and their catastrophic implications. It serves to provide a standardized fire safety management checklist, for the use of design professionals and property managers, towards the effective design and maintenance of residential facilities.
RURAL LANDSCAPES OF THE 20TH CENTURY: FROM KNOWLEDGE TO PRESERVATION
Authors: LANDI Stefania
Published: November 2019

During the 20th Century, rural landscapes underwent rapid transformations as a result – among many factors – of mechanization of agriculture and the introduction of new means of transportation: rural territories, indeed, started being signed by new railway lines and agro-industrial facilities, necessary for the storage and distribution of an increasing amount of agricultural products. This is particularly evident in Europe for the landscapes of grain production, as well as in North and South America. A recent research by the author about the grain silos built in Italy under the Fascist regime set the basis for an in-depth analysis of grain production landscapes in Italy during the first half of the 20th century, also in comparison with the European and American contexts. To this aim, survey and representation of landscape settings become crucial, for the interpretation assessment of significance of these still underestimated cultural landscapes. Therefore, the aim of this contribution is to propose a methodology for the knowledge and preservation of 20th Century grain landscapes – and their built heritage – choosing as case studies the grain silos built in Tuscany during the 1930s.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN IN THE GEOTECHNICAL LABORATORY
Authors: JASTRZĘBSKA Małgorzata
Published: November 2019

The main purpose of the paper is to present the usefulness of microwave ovens in the everyday work of geotechnical laboratories. Microwave ovens are commonly used to determine soil moisture and to dry soils that are too moist for other laboratory tests. The activities related to the above processes are not standarized in the majority of countries. The only available guidelines are based on the research projects. For the purpose of this particular research 345 tests have been conducted for moisture content determination for 3 soil types: fine sand (FSa; SP – poorly graded sand), sandy gravel (saGr; GW – well graded gravel-sand mixtures) and silty clay (siCl; CH – inorganic clay of high plasticity), using both – standard and microwave methods. The research cycle consisted of 3 different variants which includes soil moisture content, specimen initial mass, number of specimens in microwave oven and their placing. It was established that different factors have impact on the length of the process and it lasted between 2 to 17 minutes. During the heating different undesirable phenomena were observed, e.g., soil explosions or melting and glowing of clay. Based on the above research results this paper introduces guidelines for the soil drying process in the microwave oven (the optimization of the procedure and handling of the dried samples).
EX-ANTE ANALYSIS MODEL OF THE COST-EFFECTIVENESS OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY REGULATIONS
Authors: BRONIEWICZ Elzbieta
Published: November 2019

The paper aims to develop a model of ex-ante cost-effectiveness analysis for regulations applied in environmental policy. The experience gained so far in applying cost-effectiveness analysis on an ex-post and ex-ante basis has been analysed. Major problems have been identified in the practical application of the ex-ante cost-effectiveness analysis in non-investment activities. On this basis, a model for the ex-ante cost-effectiveness analysis was proposed. The developed theoretical model consists of three modules: data preparation, forecasting and interpretation. The model was verified on the environmental policy regulation – greenhouse gases emissions trading system which was implemented in Poland in 2008.
ADAPTATION OF FLATS IN CONCRETE SLAB BUILDINGS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES. ISSUES, COSTS, REIMBURSEMENT OPTIONS, COMPARISONS
Authors: BARTNICKA Małgorzata
Published: November 2019

Poland is bound by law to ensure equal opportunities and non-discrimination. Architectural barriers in space can be considered a form of discrimination against disabled people. The purpose of the article is to argue that both the old pre-cast concrete slab apartments as well as the newer buildings (built after 1995) require adaptation in order to cater for the needs of the disabled. The article outlines the developments in design for people with disabilities, starting from the programme of “abolishing architectural barriers”, through “universal design” to “design for everyone”. The paper presents some qualitative studies, in which functional quality of flats was used as the main criterion for evaluation. Using comparative analysis, a list of redevelopment possibilities and approximate costs of such adaptations in flats was compiled. Apartments M3 (38–48m2) were selected for the purpose of the study. Existing projects were assessed and compared and appropriate improvements were suggested. Subsequently, approximate costs of the proposed adaptation measures were calculated, as well as the possibilities of reimbursement under the PFRON co-financing (including buildings constructed before January 1,1995). Finally, the paper puts forward a few postulates regarding further development of the idea of design for everyone, a proposal to create an Accessibility Charter and the system of extra investments in the redevelopment of entrance areas of blocks of flats.
INVOLVING PUBLIC SPACE USERS TO DESIGN CHANGES BASED ON THE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE SQUARE IN GORZÓW WIELKOPOLSKI (POLAND). CASE STUDY
Authors: WIDZISZ-PRONOBIS Sylwia
Published: November 2019

The case study of the reconstruction of the Unknown Soldier Square (in Polish: Plac Nieznanego Żołnierza) is aimed at examining the investment process with a participatory component, with an analysis of the real impact of Gorzów Wielkopolski residents on the entire investment process. The essence of the study is to identify the missing activities improving social communication and emerging design solutions that are in fact responsive to users' needs. The study is based on activities carried out by the design company Pronobis Studio together with the City Hall of Gorzów Wielkopolski. The analyzed process showed the potential of urban residents as co-creators of the reconstruction project, and at the same time emphasized the lack of coherence between the expectations of the participants of the process and the investment possibilities of the municipality. The socialized reconstruction process primarily influenced the increase of architectural and urban awareness, improved the sense of influence on the urban space, and stimulated interest in public space among people who didn’t take part in events organized to design changes. The analysis of the participatory process in Gorzów Wielkopolski showed deficiencies associated with the organization of potential animation methods involving urban residents to actively co-design public space, enabling interest in urban investments, as well as deficiencies in stimulating control activities during the investment implementation phase and involving evaluation of accepted solutions after the changed space has been made available to users.
INFLUENCE OF SELECTED MICRO ADDITIVES CONTENT ON THERMAL PROPERTIES OF GYPSUM
Authors: CIEMNICKA Justyna , JASKULSKI Roman , KUBISSA Wojciech , PRAŁAT Karol
Published: November 2019

The presented work focuses on the influence of the micromaterials (microspheres, aerogel and polymer hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose) on thermal properties of gypsum. The polymer and the aerogel are used as additives in the weight fraction, up to 1% of pure gypsum and the microspheres in the weight fraction, up to 10% of gypsum. The water-to-gypsum ratio was at the level of 0.75. Non-stationary method and Isomet 2114 experimental setup were applied for the purpose of measurements of thermal parameters. The coefficient of thermal conductivity λ, the specific heat Cp
and the thermal diffusivity a were determined. The gypsum with polymer content resulted in more than 15% lower thermal conductivity in comparison to the specimen without HEMC as a result of the different density and total porosity of the material. The gypsum with aerogel and microspheres content resulted in more than 8% and 7% respectively lower values in comparison to the pure gypsum without micro additives. Decrease in thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity and density with added micro product were observed as a result of structure modifications of the gypsum product.
EVALUATION OF TIME DEPENDENT PRESTRESS LOSSES IN PRETENSIONED CONCRETE MEMBER WITH TOP AND BOTTOM TENDONS
Authors: PARKHATS Vadzim , KRZYWOŃ Rafał
Published: November 2019

Prestress losses are usually calculated by bringing the tendons in the cross-section to the single resultant tendon. This solution is correct only for tendons concentrated in one part of the cross-section, while with their wider distribution, for example after the use of upper tendons, it may result in underestimation of losses in the lower tendons and overestimation in the upper tendons. The paper presents formulae to determine time dependent prestress losses separately for the top and bottom tendons of a pretensioned concrete member. Furthermore, variations of stress in the prestressing steel are analysed for two pretensioned concrete members to evaluate the possibility of using the equation (5.46) from the Eurocode 2 for the resultant tendon instead of the deduced formulae. The aim of this study is to show how great the error of estimated loss of prestressing force on the basis of several typical prestressed concrete sections can be.
VARIOUS PRESENTATION OF NOISE PERCEPTION IN BYDGOSZCZ GREEN AREAS
Authors: SZTUBECKA Małgorzata , SKIBA Marta , MRÓWCZYŃSKA Maria , BAZAN-KRZYWOSZAŃSKA Anna
Published: November 2019

Sustainable management of the city’s space becomes vital due to the increasing environmental pollution. Organized urban space is treated as all resources that directly benefit local residents. Proper location and shape have an impact on the comfort of people’s rest. Urban noise pollution is gradually increasing, mainly due to rapid industrialization and urbanization. This paper addresses the issue of the interrelationships between the multitude of sounds that occur in selected areas of the greenery and their perception by visitors. The research objects are two parks located in the city centre of Bydgoszcz. The surveys were carried out there to identify the sources and perception of noises. To illustrate the audience's perception, a mental map of the directions of noise inflow was made. A fuzzy cognitive map was also made and exemplary scenarios of actions influencing the formation of the acoustic climate in these areas were presented. The use of various ways of presenting fuzzy information about the prevailing acoustic climate allows us to “shape” properly the space in the noise protection.
APPLYING INTERNAL CIRCULATION ANAEROBIC REACTOR FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT: A CASE STUDY IN SAIGON PAPER MILL WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
Authors: TRAN Nhat-Ha , BUI Manh-Ha
Published: November 2019

Internal Circulation reactor (IC reactor) is an anaerobic digestive system with the capability to treat high-load Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) of industrial wastewater (e.g. brewery, potato starch, pulp and paper). IC reactor advantages include of the following: only small areas required, shock load resistance, produces more biogas and uses less energy compared to the Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) reactor. BIOPAQ@ICX is an upgrade to BIOPAQ@IC that has higher efficiency, lower volume, able to build from the current anaerobic reactor, and its trial has produced positive results in many different countries and with various types of wastewater. A case study of the wastewater treatment plant at Saigon Paper’s mills shows that the IC reactor COD removal rate is over 80% when the COD is not over 2300 mg/L; Volumetric Load Rate (VLR) is 6–14 kgCOD/m3.day and the removal rate is higher with a higher load and could reach 80% at 14 kgCOD/m3.day; granular sludges settle very well, and the three-phase separator is efficient of preventing sludge from washing out; pH, Total Suspended Solids (TSS), alkalinity, Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA), N-NH4+, P-PO4
3-, Ca, SO4
2- were also analysed and indicated that the IC reactor is operating well.
PHYSICOCHEMICAL METHODS OF NITRATES REMOVAL FROM WASTEWATER
Authors: ŻOŁNIERCZYK Maciej , BARBUSIŃSKI Krzysztof
Published: November 2019

Nitrate(V) ions in surface water and sewage are pollutants, which excessive concentration have a negative impact on aquatic ecosystems. Due to the chemical properties, removal of nitrates from wastewater is a difficult process. In the municipal sector, biological denitrification (activated sludge) is the most commonly used process. However, in the case of industrial wastewater, where inhibiting substances or substances toxic to microorganisms are present in wastewater, it is necessary to use other types of methods.

It is possible to distinguish here methods based on physicochemical processes, in particular: physicochemical separation, chemical or electrochemical reduction and oxidation under supercritical conditions. At present, membrane methods and ion exchange processes are used mainly in the industrial sector because of the high knowledge of the technology and the amount of applications used. Intensive studies are also being carried out on methods using chemical reduction processes, where greatest advantage is the ability to transform nitrates to neutral molecular nitrogen.
The Italian Solfatara as an analog for Mars fumarolic alteration
Authors: Flahaut Jessica , Bishop Janice L. , Silvestro Simone , Tedesco Dario , Daniel Isabelle , Loizeau Damien
Published: November 2019

The first definitive evidence for continental vents on Mars is the in situ detection of amorphous silica-rich outcrops by the Mars Exploration Rover Spirit. These outcrops have been tentatively interpreted as the result of either acid sulfate leaching in fumarolic environments or direct precipitation from hot springs. Such environments represent prime targets for upcoming astrobiology missions but remain difficult to identify with certainty, especially from orbit. To contribute to the identification of fumaroles and hot spring deposits on Mars, we surveyed their characteristics at the analog site of the Solfatara volcanic crater in central Italy. Several techniques of mineral identification (VNIR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, XRD) were used both in the field and in the laboratory on selected samples. The faulted crater walls showed evidence of acid leaching and alteration into the advanced argillic-alunitic facies, with colorful deposits containing alunite, jarosite, and/or hematite. Sublimates containing various Al and Fe hydroxyl-sulfates were observed around the active fumarole vents at 90 °C. One vent at 160 °C was characterized by different sublimates enriched in As and Hb sulfide species. Amorphous silica and alunite assemblages that are diagnostic of silicic alteration were also observed at the Fangaia mud pots inside the crater. A wide range of minerals was identified at the 665 m diameter Solfatara crater that is diagnostic of acid-steam heated alteration of a trachytic, porous bedrock. Importantly, this mineral diversity was captured at each site investigated with at least one of the techniques used, which lends confidence for the recognition of similar environments with the next-generation Mars rovers.
TÜRKİYE’DE SOSYAL MEDYA İŞLETMELERİNİN VERGİLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: DURDU Muhammet
Published: November 2019

Sosyal medya işletmelerinin tüm
dünyada insan hayatının önemli bir unsuru haline gelmesi hukuki sorunları da
beraberinde getirmiştir. Sosyal medya üzerinden yapılan faaliyetler birçok
hukuk dalının yanında vergi hukukunu da alakadar etmektedir. Zira yayınlanan
reklamlar üzerinden sosyal medya şirketlerinin ciddi kazançlar elde ettiği
görülmektedir. Uluslararası doktrin ile OECD ve AB gibi uluslararası
kuruluşların yaptığı çalışmalarda sosyal medya şirketlerinin vergilendirilmesi,
dijital ekonominin vergilendirilmesi başlığı altında incelenmektedir. Gerçekten
duruma sadece sosyal medya üzerinden değil dijital ekonominin vergisel
sorunları üzerinden yaklaşmak daha kapsayıcı ve yararlı olacak ve üretilecek
çözümler uzun ömürlü olacaktır. Dijital ekonominin vergilendirilmesi ile ilgili
her ülkenin benzer sorunlarla karşılaştığı görülmektedir. Uluslararası kuruluşların
bu sorunlara çözüm önerileri ülkeler açısından yol gösterici olmaktadır. Bu
öneriler ışığında her ülkenin kendine özgü bir çözüm yolu bulmaya çalıştığı
görülmüştür. Türkiye’de ise doğrudan vergiler açısından sosyal medya
işletmelerine yapılacak reklam ücreti ödemeleri üzerinden tevkîfat uygulanması
yönünde bir düzenleme yapılmıştır. Bu yöntem kısa vadede gerekli olsa da,
dijital ekonominin tamamını ve tüm gelir unsurlarını kapsayan bir çözüm
üretilmesi elzemdir. Dolaylı vergiler açısından ise dijital ekonomiye özgü bir
yöntem bulunmayıp genel hükümlere tabi olmaktadırlar.
Abnormal umbilical vein drainage into the fetal right atrium: analysis of
published cases and own observation
Authors: N.M. Normuradova
Published: November 2019

Case of anomalous confluence of the umbilical vein in the right atrium is presented. The fetus also had an
atrioventricular septal defect and a single left umbilical artery. The issues of prenatal ultra-sound diagnosis of the
extrahepatic type of the right persistent umbilical vein, in particular, the di-rect connection of the umbilical vein
with the right atrium and its outcomes are discussed. Cases from the periodical literature and own observation
of the direct connection of the umbilical vein to the right atrium was analyzed.
First trimester prenatal diagnosis of anorectal atresia: report of three new
cases
Authors: I.V. Novikova, O.A. Tarletskaya, N.A. Venchikova et all
Published: November 2019

Three new cases of anal atresia at 11 weeks of gestation are presented. Two cases were in association with
no classified complex of multiple malformations and VACTERL association and one case was accompanied
with ileocecal stenosis. Anorectal atresia may have a variable presentation which depends on the associated
renal and bowel anomalies.
Effective and selective removal of phosphate from water by the Co(II)-based adsorbent
Authors: Han Keke , You Deng , Shao Penghui , Yang Liming , Shi Hui , Yu Wanjun , Yu Shuiping , Fang Lili , Zhuang Xu , Luo Xubiao
Published: November 2019

In this study, a novel Co(II)-based adsorbent Co-H2L is developed for the removal of phosphate. The batch experiments demonstrate that the Co-H2L possesses preferable ability of phosphate capture from water in mildly acidic to neutral pHs, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 194.44 mg P g−1. Adsorption isotherms for phosphate agree with the Langmuir model, suggesting a monolayer process. The mechanism for phosphate adsorption onto Co-H2L mainly followed the coordination mechanism, and the Co valence electron orbitals play the key role in the phosphate adsorption. In addition, the Co-H2L adsorbent can selectively remove phosphate ions in the presence of the competing ions (Cl−, NO3−, and SO42−) at higher concentrations. Our results therefore indicate that the Co(II)-based adsorbent is expected to find extensive applications in phosphate removal for water management.