bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rietveld Analysis on X-Ray Diffraction Of South Kalimantan Kaolin Clays
Authors: Febrianti Ruliana , Herlina Firda , Saukani Muhammad
Published: July 2018

At least 13 million tons of kaolin claystone lie in several regencies of South Kalimantan covering Banjar, Tapin, Hulu Sungai Utara and Kotabaru regencies. This paper reports an attempt to explore their crystalline state characteristics, projecting their potential use for geopolymer. Sungai Tabuk, Cintapuri and Tatakan, due to their largest kaolin claystone deposits, were chosen as the sampling sites. The kaolin samples were prepared by syphoning method prior to X-ray diffraction (XRD) characterizations in determining their crystalline phases. X’Pert HighScore Plus and Rietica software were respectively responsible for the qualitative and quantitative phase analyses. The qualitative analysis used search and match method at peak position and peak height between measured and calculated diffraction patterns. Our study revealed the existence of two main phases in the sample, i.e. quartz (SiO2) and kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4). In addition, the Quantitative analysis used the Rietveld method with the least squares method approach. Rietveld refinement was based on a goodness of fit score of less than 4% by minimizing the difference in the character of the diffraction pattern (position, height, width and peak shape) between the observed and the calculated XRD patterns. The Rietveld quantitative analysis shows, Tatakan is an area with kaolinite-richest deposit (±84%), followed by Cintapuri (±76%) and Tabuk (±70%); quartz is found in reverse.
Factores predictores del consumo de alcohol en adolescentes: datos de un estudio prospectivo de 1 año de seguimiento
Authors: Bousoño Serrano Matilde , Al-Halabí Susana , Burón Patricia , Garrido Marlen , Díaz-Mesa Eva Mª , Galván Gonzalo , García-Álvarez Leticia , Velasco Ángela , Wasserman Camilla , Carli Vladimir , Hoven Christina , Sarchiapone Marco , Wasserman Danuta , Bousoño Manuel , García-Portilla Mª Paz , Iglesias Celso , Sáiz Pilar Alejandra , Bobes Julio
Published: July 2018

El uso/abuso de alcohol es un problema de salud en los adolescentes. La última Encuesta sobre uso de drogas en Enseñanzas Secundarias realizada en España (ESTUDES 2014-2015), pone de manifiesto que 76,8% de los adolescentes entre 14 y 18 años consumieron alcohol en el último año y 68,2% en el último mes. El principal objetivo es determinar los factores que se asocian con el consumo de alcohol a medio plazo en una muestra de adolescentes españoles. El estudio forma parte del proyecto Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe (SEYLE). La muestra final estuvo compuesta por 708 estudiantes, evaluados en dos momentos temporales [basal (T0) y al año (T1)] [varones: 51,98%, edad media basal (DE)=4,43 (0,67)]. Se realizaron análisis de regresión univariante y multivariante, con el fin de investigar las relaciones entre posibles variables predictoras descritas en el momento temporal T0 y el consumo de alcohol en el momento T1.En el momento basal (T0) la prevalencia de abuso de alcohol fue del 25,56%, mientras que la prevalencia al año fue del 49,72% (T1). Las variables que predicen de forma significativa el abuso de alcohol al cabo de un año son: abuso previo del alcohol en el momento T0 (p< 0,001), abuso previo de drogas (p=0,011), padres que asisten a sus competiciones deportivas (p=0,005), problemas de relación con compañeros (p=0,019) y ausencia de comportamiento prosocial (p=0,043). A la vista de nuestros resultados se puede concluir que, en adolescentes, los trastornos externalizantes parecen ser factores determinantes de consumo de alcohol a medio plazo.
The Reynolds Navier-Stokes Turbulence Equations of Incompressible Flow Are Closed Rather Than Unclosed
Authors: Sun Bohua
Published: July 2018

This paper shown that turbulence closure problem is not an issue at all. All mistakes in the literature regarding the numbers of unknown quantities in the Reynolds turbulence equations stem from the misunderstandings of physics of the Reynolds stress tensor, i.e., all literatures have stated that the symmetric Reynolds stress tensor has six unknowns; however, it actually has only three unknowns, i.e., the three components of fluctuation velocity. We shown the integral-differential equations of the Reynolds mean and fluctuation equations have exactly eight equations, which equal to the numbers of quantities in total, namely, three components of mean velocity, three components of fluctuation velocity, one mean pressure and one fluctuation pressure. That is why we claim in this paper, that the Reynolds Navier-Stokes turbulence equations of incompressible flow are closed rather than unclosed. This study may help to solve the puzzle that has eluded scientists and mathematicians for centuries.
α-Synuclein Amyloid Fibrils Investigation with the Use of Fluorescent Probe Thioflavin T
Authors: Sulatskaya Anna I. , Rodina Natalia P. , Sulatsky Maksim I. , Povarova Olga I. , Antifeeva Iuliia A. , Kuznetsova Irina M. , Turoverov Konstantin K.
Published: July 2018

In this work α-synuclein amyloid fibrils, formation of which is a biomarker of the Parkinson’s disease, were investigated with the use of fluorescent probe thioflavin T (ThT). Experimental conditions of the protein fibrillogenesis were chosen so that a sufficient number of continuous measurements can be performed to characterize and analyze all stages of this process. The reproducibility of fibrillogenesis and the structure of the obtained aggregates (that is a critical point for their further investigation) were proved using a wide range of physical-chemical methods. For determination of ThT—α-synuclein amyloid fibrils binding parameters sample and reference solutions were prepared with the use of equilibrium microdialysis. By absorption spectroscopy of these solutions ThT—fibrils binding mode with the binding constant about 104 M−1 and stoichiometry of ThT per protein molecule about 1:8 was observed. Fluorescence spectroscopy of the same solutions with the subsequent correction of the recorded fluorescence intensity on the primary inner filter effect allowed to determine another mode of ThT binding to fibrils with the binding constant about 106 M−1 and stoichiometry about 1:2500. Analysis of photophysical characteristics of the dye molecules bound to the sites of different binding modes allowed to assume the possible localization of these sites. Obtained differences in the ThT binding parameters to amyloid fibrils formed from α-synuclein and other amyloidogenic proteins, as well as in the photophysical characteristics of the bound dye, confirmed the hypothesis of amyloid fibrils polymorphism.
High-Performance SiC-Polycrystalline Fiber with Smooth Surface
Authors: Usukawa Ryutaro , Ishikawa Toshihiro
Published: July 2018

Polymer-derived SiC-polycrystalline fiber (Tyranno SA) shows excellent heat-resistance up to 2000oC, and relatively high strength. Up to now, through our research, the relationship between the strength and residual defects of the fiber, which were formed during the production processes (degradation and sintering), has been clarified. In this paper, we addressed the relationship between the production condition and the surface roughness of the obtained SiC-polycrystalline fiber, using three different raw fibers (Elementary ratio: Si1Al0.01C1.5O0.4~0.5) and three different types of reactor (Open system, Partially-open system, and Closed system). With increase in the oxygen content in the raw fiber, the degradation during the production process easily proceeded. In this case, the degradation reactions (SiO+2C=SiC+CO and SiO2+3C=SiC+2CO) in the inside of each filament become faster, and then the CO partial pressure on the surface of each filament is considered to be increased. In consequence, according to Le Chatelier’s principle, the surface degradation reaction and grain growth of formed SiC crystals would be considered to become slower. That is to say, using the raw fiber with higher oxygen content and closed system (highest CO content in the reactor), much smoother surface of the SiC-polycrystalline fiber could be achieved.
The Effects of Material’s Transport on Various Steps of Production System on Energetic Efficiency of Biodiesel Production
Authors: Orynycz Olga , Świć Antoni
Published: July 2018

Based on rapeseed plantation biodiesel production system requires transportation of goods, like raw materials, machines and tools, and products between various conversion stages of agricultural as well as industrial subsystems. Each transportation step requires consumption of some energy. This consumption, decreases the net amount of energy delivered out of the biofuel production system, and consequently decreases energetic efficiency of the system. The present work deals with computer modelling of the influence of energy consumed on those transport routes on the energetic efficiency of production system. The effects caused by variation of several parameters like fuel consumption and load capacity of transportation means, size of plantation, distribution and sizes of individual fields, distances between fields, as well as plantation yield, and finally the distance between plantation and the industrial facility are studied using the numerical model developed
Verdazyls as Possible Building Blocks for Multifunctional Molecular Materials: A case Study on 1,5-Diphenyl-3-(p-iodophenyl)-verdazyl Focusing on Magnetism, Electron Transfer and the Applicability of the Sonogashira-Hagihara Reaction
Authors: Jobelius Hannah , Wagner Norbert , Schnakenburg Gregor , Meyer Andreas
Published: July 2018

This work explores the use of Kuhn verdazyl radicals as building blocks in multifunctional molecular materials in an exemplary study, focusing on the magnetic and the electron transfer (ET) characteristics, but also addressing the question whether chemical modification by cross-coupling is possible. The ET in solution is studied spectroscopically whereas solid state measurements afford information about the magnetic susceptibility or the conductivity of the given samples. The observed results are rationalized based on the chemical structures of the molecules, which have been obtained by X-ray crystallography. The crystallographically observed molecular structures as well as the interpretation based on the spectroscopic and physical measurements are backed up by DFT calculations. The measurements indicate that only weak, antiferromagnetic coupling is observed in Kuhn verdazyls owed to the low tendency to form face-to-face stacks, but also that steric reasons alone are not sufficient to explain this behavior. Furthermore, it is also demonstrated that ET reactions proceed rapidly in verdazyls/verdazylium redox couples and that Kuhn verdazyls are suited as donor molecules in ET reactions.
Removal of barium, cobalt, strontium and zinc from solution by natural and synthetic allophane adsorbents
Authors: Baldermann Andre , Grießbacher Andrea Cäcilia , Baldermann Claudia , Purgstaller Bettina , Letofsky-Papst Ilse , Kaufhold Stephan , Dietzel Martin
Published: July 2018

The capacity and the mechanism of the adsorption of aqueous barium (Ba), cobalt (Co), strontium (Sr) and zinc (Zn) by Ecuadorian (NatAllo) and synthetic (SynAllo-1 and SynAllo-2) allophanes were studied as a function of contact time, pH and metal ion concentration using kinetic and equilibrium experiments. The mineralogy, nano-structure and chemical composition of the allophanes were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and specific surface area analyses. The evolution of adsorption fitted to a pseudo-first-order reaction kinetics, where equilibrium between aqueous metal ions and allophane was reached within < 10 min. The metal ion removal efficiencies varied from 0.7 to 99.7 % at pH 4.0 to 8.5. At equilibrium, the adsorption behavior is better described by the Langmuir model than by the Dubinin-Radushkevich model, yielding sorption capacities of 10.6, 17.2 and 38.6 mg/g for Ba^(2+), 12.4, 19.3 and 29.0 mg/g for HCoO_2^-, 7.2, 15.9 and 34.4 mg/g for Sr^(2+) and 20.9, 26.9 and 36.9 mg/g for Zn^(2+), respectively, by NatAllo, SynAllo-2 and SynAllo-1. The uptake mechanism is based on a physical adsorption process. Allophane holds great potential to remove aqueous metal ions and could be used instead of zeolites, montmorillonite, carbonates and phosphates for wastewater treatment.
Model for the Correlation between Anodic Dissolution Resistance and Crystallographic Texture in API 5L Steels
Authors: Madrigal-Cano Manuel , Hernández-Maya Luis , Hallen José M. , Corrales-Luna Mónica , Arce-Estrada Elsa M. , Le Manh Tu
Published: July 2018

The present work shows a novel physical-mathematical model to estimate the average corrosion resistance index from the crystallographic texture in API 5L steels. The crystallographic texture of the studied steels was measured by means of the X-ray diffraction technique. The model, based on the symmetric spherical surface harmonics for a BCC structure, is capable of describing the anisotropy surface of anodic dissolution resistance of the crystal and establishing a straightforward relationship between crystallographic texture, surface roughness, and metal corrosion behavior. The predictions of the average corrosion resistance index made from the crystallographic texture were in good agreement with those obtained from potentiodynamic polarization curves for the investigated steels. This agreement validates the capacity of this model and opens the possibility of applying it as a novel criterion for the material selection and design stages in order to combat metal corrosion problems.
Spatial Environmental Assessment Tool (SEAT): A Modeling Tool to Evaluate Potential Environmental Risks Associated with Wave Energy Converter Deployments
Authors: Jones Craig , Chang Grace , Raghukumar Kaustubha , McWilliams Samuel , Dallman Ann , Roberts Jesse
Published: July 2018

Wave energy converter (WEC) arrays deployed in coastal regions may create physical disturbances potentially resulting in environmental stresses. Presently, limited information is available on the nature of these physical disturbance or the resultant effects. A quantitative Spatial Environmental Assessment Tool (SEAT) for evaluating potential effects of wave energy converter (WEC) arrays on nearshore hydrodynamics and sediment transport is presented for the central Oregon coast (USA) through coupled numerical model simulations of an array of WECs. Derived climatological wave conditions were used as inputs to the model to allow for the calculation of risk metrics associated with various hydrodynamic and sediment transport variables such as maximum shear stress, bottom velocity, and change in bed elevation. The risk maps provided simple, quantitative, and spatially-resolved means of evaluating physical changes in the vicinity of a hypothetical WEC array in response to varying wave conditions. Near-field risk of sediment mobility was determined to be moderate in the lee of the densely spaced array, where the potential for increased sediment deposition could result in benthic habitat alteration. Modifications to the nearshore sediment deposition and erosion patterns were observed near headlands and topographic features, which could have implications for littoral sediment transport. The results illustrate the benefits of a risk evaluation tool for facilitating coastal resource management at early market marine renewable energy sites.
Lead, Cadmium and Arsenic Bioaccessibility of 24-Hour Duplicate Diet Ingested by Preschool Children Attending Day Care Centers in Brazil
Authors: Leroux Isabelle Nogueira , Ferreira Ana Paula Sacone da Silva , Paniz Fernanda Pollo , Pedron Tatiana , Salles Fernanda Junqueira , da Silva Fábio Ferreira , Maltez Heloisa França , Batista Bruno Lemos , Olympio Kelly Polido Kaneshiro
Published: July 2018

Lead, a metal with high neurotoxicity to children; cadmium, a carcinogenic and bioaccumulative contaminant and arsenic; a class 1 carcinogenic, are toxic elements (TEs) whose relevant route of exposure may be diet. We determined the bioaccessible fraction of lead, cadmium and arsenic from the diet of preschool children from 2 day care centers (DCC). A cross-sectional study was conducted with 64 1–4-year-old children from 2 DCCs, where the 24-hour duplicate diet samples were collected. The diet samples were analyzed by ICP-MS for lead, cadmium and arsenic total concentrations (n = 64) and their bioaccessibility were analyzed for a subsample (n = 10). The dietary intake (DI) mean for lead, cadmium and arsenic were 0.18 ± 0.11 µg kg−1bw, 0.08 ± 0.04 µg kg −1bw and 0.61 ± 0.41 µg kg−1bw, respectively. All DI calculated for TEs, considering total intake, were found lower than the tolerable limits (European Union, EU, or World Health Organization, WHO, when applicable), except for one child’s Pb intake. Bioaccessibilities ranged between 0–93%, 0–103% and 0–69%, for lead, cadmium and arsenic, respectively. Although DI for TEs has been found lower than TI, these reference values have been recently decreased or withdrawn, as it was the case for lead and arsenic, whose tolerable limits were withdrawn by WHO.
On the nature of evidence and 'proving' causality: smoking and lung cancer vs. sun exposure, vitamin D and multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lucas Robyn , Rodney Harris Rachael
Published: July 2018

If environmental exposures are shown to cause an adverse health outcome, reducing exposure should reduce the disease risk. Links between exposures and outcomes are typically based on ‘associations’ derived from observational studies, and causality may not be clear. Randomised controlled trials to ‘prove’ causality are often not feasible or ethical. Here the history of evidence that tobacco smoking causes lung cancer – in observational studies – is compared to that of low sun exposure and/or low vitamin D status as causal risk factors for the autoimmune disease, multiple sclerosis. Evidence derives from in vitro and animal studies, as well as ecological, case-control and cohort studies, in order of increasing strength. For smoking and lung cancer, the associations are strong, consistent, and biologically plausible – the evidence is coherent or ‘in harmony’. For low sun exposure/vitamin D as risk factors for MS, the evidence is weaker, with smaller effect sizes, but coherent across a range of sources of evidence, and biologically plausible. The association is less direct – smoking is directly toxic and carcinogenic to the lung, but sun exposure/vitamin D modulate the immune system, which in turn may reduce the risk of immune attack on self-proteins in the central nervous system. Opinion about whether there is sufficient evidence to conclude that low sun exposure/vitamin D increase the risk of multiple sclerosis, is divided. General public health advice to receive sufficient sun exposure to avoid vitamin D deficiency (<50nmol/L) should also ensure any benefits for multiple sclerosis.
Identification of Nanocellulose Retention Characteristics in Porous Media
Authors: Aadland Reidun C. , Dziuba Carter J. , Heggset Ellinor B. , Syverud Kristin , Torsæter Ole , Holt Torleif , Gates Ian D. , Bryant Steven L.
Published: July 2018

The application of nanotechnology to the petroleum industry has sparked recent interest to increase oil recovery while reducing environmental impact. Nanocellulose is an emerging nanoparticle that is derived from trees and may provide an environmentally friendly alternative to current enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies. However, before nanocellulose can be applied as an EOR technique, further understanding of its transport behavior and retention in porous media is required. The research documented in this paper examines retention mechanisms that occur during nanocellulose transport. In a series of experiments, nanocellulose particles dispersed in brine were injected into sandpacks and Berea sandstone cores. The resulting retention and permeability reduction were measured. The experimental parameters that were varied include sand grain size, nanocellulose type, salinity, and flow rate. Under low salinity conditions, the dominant retention mechanism was adsorption and when salinity was increased, the dominant retention mechanism shifted towards log-jamming. Retention and permeability reduction increased as grain size decreased, which results from increased straining of nanocellulose aggregates. In addition, each type of nanocellulose was found to have significantly different transport properties. The experiments with Berea sandstone cores indicate that some pore volume was inaccessible to the nanocellulose. As a general trend, the larger the size of aggregates in bulk solution, the greater the observed retention and permeability reduction. Salinity was found to be the most important parameter affecting transport. Increased salinity caused additional aggregation, which led to increased straining and filter cake formation. Higher flow rates were found to reduce retention and permeability reduction. Increased velocity was accompanied by an increase in shear which is believed to promote breakdown of nanocellulose aggregates.
Association of Moderate-To-Vigorous Physical Activity with Neck Circumference in Eight Latin American Countries
Authors: Ferrari Gerson Luis de Moraes , Kovalskys Irina , Fisberg Mauro , Salas Georgina Gómez , Rigotti Attilio , Sanabria Lilia Yadira Cortés , García Martha Cecilia Yépez , Torres Rossina Gabriella Pareja , Herrera-Cuenca Marianella , Zimberg Ioná Zalcman , Guajardo Viviana , Pratt Michael , Pires Carlos , Solé Dirceu
Published: July 2018

The present study investigated the association of accelerometer-determined moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) with neck circumference (NC) in adolescents and adults from eight Latin American countries. The sample consisted of 2370 participants from the Latin American Study of Nutrition and Health, a multicenter cross-sectional nutrition and health surveillance study of a nationally representative sample from eight Latin American countries. An Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometer was used to monitor MVPA. Adolescents were categorized as NC > 34.25 cm in boys and NC > 31.25 cm in girls, and adults were categorized as NC > 39 cm in men and NC > 35 cm in women. The average time of MVPA was 34.88 min/day, ranging from 31.16 in Venezuela to 40.27 in Chile. Concerning NC, 37.0% of the sample was classified as having elevated NC. Chile was the country with the highest percentage of people with elevated NC (56.9%), and Colombia had the lowest percentage (24.8%). Overall, the MVPA (min/day) was associated with elevated NC (OR = 0.994, CI95% = 0.990–0.998). In Costa Rica and Peru, there were significant associations between MVPA and NC when analyzed by country. Further research is required to understand the differences between countries in the observed associations.
Recent Advances in Poly(vinylidene fluoride) and Its Copolymers for Lithium-Ion Battery Separators
Authors: Barbosa João C. , Dias José P. , Lanceros-Méndez Senentxu , Costa Carlos M.
Published: July 2018

The separator membrane is an essential component of lithium-ion batteries, separating the anode and cathode and controlling the number and mobility of the lithium ions. Among the polymer matrices most investigated for battery separators are poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and its copolymers poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene) (PVDF-TrFE), poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP), and poly(vinylidene fluoride-cochlorotrifluoroethylene) (PVDF-CTFE), due to their excellent properties such as high polarity and the possibility of controlling the porosity of the materials through binary and ternary polymer/solvent systems, among others. This review presents the recent advances on battery separators based on poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and its copolymers for lithium-ion batteries. It is divided in the following sections: single polymer and co-polymers, surface modification, composites and polymer blends. Further, a critical comparison between those membranes and other separator membranes is presented, as well as the future trends on this area.
There's Always Another Way! Cytomegalovirus’ Multifaceted Dissemination Schemes
Authors: Jackson Joseph W. , Sparer Tim
Published: July 2018

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a β-herpes virus that is a significant pathogen within immune compromised populations. HCMV morbidity is induced through viral dissemination and inflammation. Typically, viral dissemination is thought to follow Fenner’s hypothesis where virus replicates at the site of infection, followed by replication in the draining lymph nodes, and eventually replicating within blood filtering organs. Although CMVs somewhat follow Fenner’s hypothesis, they deviate from it by spreading primarily through innate immune cells as opposed to cell free virus. Also, in vivo CMVs infect new cells via cell to cell spread and disseminate directly to secondary organs through novel mechanisms. We review the historic and recent literature pointing to CMV’s direct dissemination to secondary organs and the genes that it has evolved for increasing its ability to disseminate. We also highlight aspects of CMV infection for studying viral dissemination when using in vivo animal models.
Tailored Biodegradable and Electroactive Poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) Based Morphologies for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Amaro Luís , Correia Daniela M. , Marques-Almeida Teresa , Martins Pedro M. , Pérez Leyre , Vilas Jose Luis , Botelho Gabriela , Lanceros-Mendez Senentxu , Ribeiro Clarisse
Published: July 2018

Polymer-based piezoelectric biomaterials have already proven their relevance for tissue engineering applications. Further, the morphology of the scaffolds plays also an important role in cell proliferation and differentiation. The present work reports on poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), a biocompatible, biodegradable and piezoelectric biopolymer that has been processed in different morphologies, including films, fibres, microspheres and 3D scaffolds. Further, the corresponding magnetically active PHBV-based composites were also produced. The effect of the morphology on physico-chemical, thermal, magnetic and mechanical properties of pristine and composites samples was evaluated, as well as their cytotoxicity. It was observed that the morphology does not strongly affect the properties of the pristine samples but the introduction of cobalt ferrites induces changes in the degree of crystallinity that could affect the applicability of prepared biomaterials. Young modulus is dependent of the morphology and also increases with the addition of cobalt ferrites. Both, pristine and PHBV/cobalt ferrite composite samples are no cytotoxic, indicating their suitability for tissue engineering applications.
Conformable Laplace Transform of Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Silva Fernando S. , Moreira Davidson M. , Moret Marcelo A.
Published: July 2018

In this paper we use the conformable fractional derivative to discuss some fractional linear differential equations with constant coefficients. By applying some similar arguments to the theory of ordinary differential equations, we establish a sufficient condition to guarantee the reliability of solving constant coefficient fractional differential equations by the conformable Laplace transform method. Finally, we analyze the analytical solution for a class of fractional models associated with Logistic model, Von Foerster model and Bertalanffy model is presented graphically for various fractional orders and solution of corresponding classical model is recovered as a particular case.
What Is the Value of and Who Values Native Bee Pollination for Wild Blueberries and Cranberries?
Authors: Hoshide Aaron K. , Drummond Francis A. , Stevens Thomas H. , Venturini Eric , Hanes Samuel P. , Sylvia Martha M. , Loftin Cynthia S. , Yarborough David E. , Averill Anne L.
Published: July 2018

Recent pollinator declines have focused efforts on their conservation which require clear estimates of pollination value to agriculture. Our socio-economic producer surveys and agronomic field research data were used to present a new way of estimating ecosystem service value of native pollinators. Using two regionally important U.S.A. crops, Maine wild blueberry and Massachusetts cranberry as models, we present perceived values of native bee pollinators from both consumer and producers. Wild blueberry’s Replacement Cost (RC) was greater than Attributable Net Income (ANI), since greater rented honey bee stocking densities are required. Attributable Net Income for native bees were similar for wild blueberry ($613/ha) and cranberry ($689/ha). Marginal Net Farm Income (MNFI) from incrementally adding more hives per ha was greater from stocking a third/fourth hive per ha for cranberry ($6,206) than stocking a ninth/tenth hive per ha for wild blueberry ($556), given greater responsiveness of yield, revenue, and profit to using rented honey bee hives in cranberry compared to wild blueberry. Both crops’ producers were only willing to annually invest $140–188/ha in native pollination enhancements on their farms, justifying government support. Consumers are willing to pay ~6.7 times more to support native bees than producers, supporting market-based support for invertebrate conservation.
Mapping Agricultural Ecosystem Services across Scales
Authors: Sharma Shubhechchha , Hodbod Jennifer , Tebbs Emma , Chan Kristofer
Published: July 2018

Given the cross-scale interactions of agricultural ecosystems, it is important to collect ecosystem service data at the multiple spatial scales they operate at. Mapping of ecosystem services helps to assess their spatial and temporal distribution and is a popular communication tool of their availability and value. For example, maps can be used to quantify distance between areas of available ecosystem services and their beneficiaries and how services fluctuate with changes in land use patterns over time, allowing identification of synergies and trade-offs. However, a lack of local context and too large a resolution can reduce the utility of these maps, whilst masking heterogeneities in access due to equity dynamics. This review identifies and summarizes eight main methods of ESS mapping found in the literature—remote sensing, biophysical modelling, agent based modelling, economic valuation, expert opinion, user preference, participatory mapping, and photo-elicitation. We consider what spatial scales these methods are utilized at and the transferability of data created by each method. The analysis concludes with a methodological framework for mapping ecosystem services, intended to help researchers identify appropriate methods for a multi-scale research design. The framework is exemplified with an overview of a research project in Ethiopia.
How Can the International Community Best Respond to the Problem of Child Soldiers?
Authors: Lleshi MA. Astrit
Published: July 2018

The child soldier phenomenon is not recent and has been manifested throughout centuries; as such the use of children in armed conflicts receives universal condemnation.Currently child soldiers of different age groups are forced to kill and commit other violent acts in many wars and other conflicts around the world; however it is impossible to know their exact numbers.In 1998 The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has criminalized the use of children in armed conflicts, nevertheless to this day minors are being abused indiscriminately in many armed conflicts around the world. This article argues for the creation, use and application of a single universal definition of what constitutes child soldiering, recognition and protection of children as a vulnerable group in armed conflicts, as well as  attempts to put forward ideas how can international community best respond to the problem of the child soldiers.
IMAGING TECHNIQUES FOR THE DETECTION OF LYMPH NODE METASTASIS IN PATIENTS WITH LARYNGEAL ANF HYPOPHARYNGEAL CANCER
Authors: Frolova I. G. , Choinzonov E. L. , Goldberg V. E. , Chizhevskaya S. Yu. , Chernov V. I. , Goldberg A. V. , Belevich Yu. V.
Published: July 2018

The purposeof the study was a systematic literature review of imaging assessment of lymph node metastasis in patients with laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer.

Material and methods.In order to review the most relevant scientific literature available, we searched Elibrary, Medline databases (from January 2005 to December 2017). Of 735 identified studies, 32 were assessed.

Results. The role of ultrasonography, spiral computer tomography,  magnetic resonance tomography, positron emission tomography in  the assessment of regional metastatic spread in patients with  laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer was analyzed. All these imaging techniques failed to reliably identify clinically occult  lymph node metastases. However, the choice of treatment options  for laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer depends considerably on  the diagnostic accuracy. In this context, the concept of sentinel lymph nodes deserves special attention.

Conclusion.Further studies of the sentinel lymph node concept  using various radiopharmaceutical drugs in the detection of  preclinical regional metastasis in patients with laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer are required.
A RARE CLINICAL CASE OF MIXED SEROUS NEUROENDOCRINE CYSTIC NEOPLASM OF THE PANCREAS
Authors: Koshel A. P. , Alipov V. V. , Bazilevich L. R. , Khvashchevsky A. I. , Purlik I. L. , Drozdov E. S.
Published: July 2018

Background. Serous cystic pancreatic neoplasm is a rare pancreatic tumor, accounting for 1–2 % of all pancreatic tumors. In 2010,  mixed serous neuroendocrine cystic neoplasia was included into the classification of the WHO for pancreatic tumors. Only a few cases of this disease have been reported in the literature. Mixed serous  neuroendocrine cystic neoplasia is often associated with von Hippel  Lindau disease. Most authors recommend surgery as a main treatment of this disease.

Case report. We present a case with mixed serous neuroendocrine  cystic neoplasia not associated with von Hippel Lindau disease. The  patient underwent spleen – preserving distal pancreas resection. The diagnosis was histologically and immunohistochemically  verified. There is no evidence of disease recurrence within 10  months after surgery. Conclusion. Histological examination of the  resected serous cystadenoms should take into account the possibility of combining this pathology with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.  For the purpose of verification, the use of immunohistochemical  examination is required. Radical surgical resection allows patients  with this disease to be cured.
ANALYSIS OF HEMATOLOGIC, HEPATIC AND PANCREATIC TOXICITY DURING NEOADJUVANT CHEMORADIOTHERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH LOCALLY ADVANCED GASTRIC CANCER
Authors: Skoropad V. Yu. , Kudryavtsev D. D. , Anikina E. N. , Poluaktova M. V. , Titova L. N.
Published: July 2018

Purpose.We analyzed the frequency and severity of hematologic, hepatic and pancreatic toxicity during and after completion of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with gastric cancer.

Material and methods. Phase II clinical trial was conducted to  evaluate the efficacy of the combined modality treatment including neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by D2  gastrectomy for patients with locally advanced gastric cancer. The  main inclusion criteria were: histologically verified gastric cancer,  cT3-4N0, cT2-4N1-3; M0. Before starting neoadjuvant therapy, all  patients underwent thoracic and abdominal CT and laparoscopy to  exclude peritoneal carcinomatosis. A total dose of radiation therapy  was 45 Gy (1 + 1.5 Gy/fraction/day with a 4–5 hour interval)  concurrently with the modified CAPOX chemotherapy regimen.  Gastrectomy or subtotal resection of the stomach was planned 4-6  weeks after the completion of chemoradiotherapy. The toxicity  assessment of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy was performed using the NCI CTC scale, version 3.0. The assessment of hematological, hepatic and pancreatic toxicities was done.

Results.Among the toxicity during and after completion of  neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia and leukopenia (grade 1–2) were the most common, requiring no  additional symptomatic therapy. Radiation therapy was completed in  45 (98 %) patients. Chemotherapy was completed in 42 (91 %)  patients. The median time between the completion of  chemoradiotherapy and surgery was 44 days. Surgery following  chemoradiotherapy was performed in 100 % of patients, including R0 resection in 93 % of patients.

Conclusion.Preoperative chemoradiotherapy was well tolerated by  patients, could be completed in most cases and did not prevent  subsequent surgical treatment.
POLYMORPHISM OF THE TP53 GENE IN PATIENTS WITH GASTRIC CANCER IN PROSPECTIVE AND CLINICAL CASE-CONTROL STUDIES
Authors: Belkovets A. V. , Kurilovich S. A. , Maksimov V. N. , Ragino Yu. I. , Scherbakova L. V. , Cheremisina O. V. , Cherdyntseva N. V. , Parulikova M. V. , Voevoda M. I.
Published: July 2018

Background.A functionally significant TP53Arg72Pro polymorphism can contribute to the development of gastric cancer (GC).

The aim:to study the associations of genotypes and alleles of the TP53Arg72Pro 4 polymorphism with GC and biomarkers of gastric ucosal atrophy in population-based prospective and case-control clinical trials among the population of Siberia.

Material and methods.As a part of the epidemiological study, data of the international multicenter HAPIEE project for 2003–05, based on a population sample of residents of Novosibirsk city (serum and  DNA samples) and data of the population-based registry of GC  (2012) were compared. Gastric cancer patients were matched by  age and sex to HAPIEE population controls. A total of 156 serum  samples (GC – 52, control – 104) and 146 DNA samples (GC – 50,  control – 96) were available for prospective analysis. DNA samples  from 80 gastric cancer patients (45 men and 35 women, mean age  61.0 ± 13.4 years) and from 87 age-and sex-matched controls were  analyzed. DNA samples from venous blood were genotyped  according to standard methods. Serum samples were tested using  diagnostic kit for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to determine the levels of pepsinogen I (PGI), PGII, PGI/PGII ratio, gastrin-17 and IgG antibodies to H. pylori.

Results.No differences in genotype and allele frequencies of the TP53 gene between the case group and the control group were  found. A decreased frequency of the Pro allele in female gastric  cancer patients compared with controls indicated that the Pro allele  is protective against the development of gastric cancer, but this  effect was not observed in male patients. No associations of TP53  genotypes with the risk of diffuse or intestinal gastric cancer, as well  as with the age and sex of patients were found. A high frequency of  genotypes with the Pro allele in patients with stage III–IV gastric  cancer indicated the relationship between Arg/Pro TR53 and tumor  progression, in particular, the contribution of the minor Pro allele to  the unfavorable prognosis. A prospective study showed high risk of  reducing the level of pepsinogen for assessing predisposition to  gastric cancer.

Conclusion.Two case-control studies (population and clinical) conducted in the Western Siberia found no relationship between the  TP53Arg72Pro polymorphism and the risk of gastric cancer. However, the TP53 genotype with a rare Pro allele was associated with atrophic gastritis and severity of gastric cancer.
THE USE OF THE SUBMENTAL FLAP IN RECONSTRUCTION OF HEAD AND NECK DEFECTS
Authors: Saprina O. A. , Azizyan R. I. , Brzhezovsky V. Zh. , Mudunov A. M. , Romanov I. S. , Allakhverdiyeva G. F. , Alieva S. B. , Lomaya M. V.
Published: July 2018

Reconstruction of head and neck defects after surgery for cancer remains challenging. The choice of the reconstruction technique  depends on the tumor size and localization, type of the defect,  patient’s age, concomitant diseases, and disease prognosis.  Surgeons have currently a broad range of material for reconstructive surgery, from free flaps to revascularized flaps. Microsurgical  reconstruction has made a revolution in treatment of patients with  complex head and neck defects. However, the use of this technique may not be advisable for some patients. The search for  new techniques is needed to improve functional and aesthetic results and reduce traumatism without compromising oncologic outcomes.  Thirty-six patients underwent surgery with reconstruction using the  submental island flap, a new alternative in the reconstruction of  various head and neck defects. The graft was taken after making a  neck incision for neck lymph node dissection. A few patients develop  total and marginal necrosis of the graft. Short- and long-term results showed no worsening of oncologic outcomes in the selected group of patients.
EXPERIENCE IN APPLYING THE TECHNOLOGY OF CYTOREDUCTIVE SURGERY WITH HYPERTHERMIC INTRAOPERATIVE INTRAPERITONEAL CHEMOTHERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH PERITONEAL CARCINOMATOSIS
Authors: Shelekhov A. V. , Dvornichenko V. V. , Radostev S. I. , Morikov D. D. , Rasulov R. I. , Ushakova I. V. , Medvednikov A. A. , Zaharov A. G. , Demonov R. N. , Gladkova O. V. , Chernorubashkina N. M.
Published: July 2018

We present our experience in using cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for ovarian cancer patients treated at Irkutsk Regional Cancer Center. All patients were divided into 2 groups. Group I  consisted of 15 patients, who underwent cytoreductive surgery only.  Group II comprised 17 patients, who underwent surgery and HIPEC.  The main eligibility criteria for this study were verified peritoneal carcinomatosis and resectable ovarian cancer. The primary analysis of these groups included: preoperative period, length of  operation, postoperative length of stay, and postoperative  complications. The technique of performing HIPEC using Performer  HT® (RAND, Medolla (MO), Italy) was completely described. Further study is required to estimate the difference in overall and disease-free survival between study groups.
Surface Complexation Modeling of Fluoride Adsorption by Soil and the Role of Dissolved Aluminum on Adsorption
Authors: Padhi Sakambari , Tokunaga Tomochika
Published: July 2018

Core Ideas

A surface complexation model for F− adsorption on soil was developed.

Dissolved Al and Al–F complex adsorption added to the model better explained F− adsorption.

The model can be extended to study the effect of existing co‐anions or humic substances.

The adsorption processes of F− on a natural soil as a function of varying pH and F− concentration were evaluated by applying a surface complexation model (SCM) based on a single surface functional group with monodentate binding sites. A granitic soil from Tsukuba, Japan, was chosen as an example, and the SCM was developed to explain the pH dependency of F− sorption isotherms on the soil. Four possible surface complexation reactions were postulated with and without including dissolved Al. Optimized constants for F− surface complexation, and those for protonation and deprotonation, were used for the simulations. The SCM including dissolved Al and the adsorption of Al–F complex can simulate the experimental results, the decreasing trend of F− adsorption with the increase in pH, quite successfully. Also, including dissolved Al and the adsorption of Al–F complex to the model explained the change in solution pH after F− adsorption. Therefore, incorporation of dissolved Al and Al–F complex in model calculations of a soil–F system is an important improvement to predict F− concentrations of soil solutions.
Inflation and economic growth: the search for a compromise for the Central Bank's monetary policy
Authors: Mishchenko Volodymyr , Naumenkova Svitlana , Mishchenko Svitlana , Ivanov Viktor
Published: July 2018

The article analyzes the influence of inflation on economic growth and substantiates the main directions of increasing the effectiveness of the central bank's anti-inflation policy. In order to determine the limit of inflation, the excess of which has a negative impact on the economic growth, the relationship is analyzed between the inflation rate and the real GDP growth rate on the basis of IMF statistics using the example of 158 countries. It was determined that in 2010–2017, in the global economy, the 6.0% inflation was the marginal value of the inflation rate, beyond which the economic growth rate declined or slowed down. Given the inverse relationship between the inflation rate and the real GDP growth rates as well as empirical calculations for the period 1996–2017, the threshold for inflation rate for Ukraine at the level of 4.51% was determined based on empirical calculations for the 1996–2017 period. The results indicate that the National Bank of Ukraine set the inflation target above the level of the calculated threshold inflation. It has also been established that the link between the rates of nominal GDP growth, as opposed to real GDP, and the inflation rate, is more direct and more tight. It is substantiated that to analyze such dependence it is better to use GDP deflator instead of CPI. The results indicate that deflation constrains economic growth much less than inflation. In order to increase the effectiveness of the central bank’s pro-cyclical monetary policy aimed at supporting economic growth, the relationship between the rates of real GDP growth and the indicator characterizing the gap between the growth rates of M3 and inflation, which actually reflects the real money supply dynamics, is determined. The results obtained allowed to conclude that in 2009 and 2014-2017, the artificial “squeezing” of the money supply took place in Ukraine, resulting in a decrease in the level of the economy monetization by 22.0% in 2017 compared to 2013.It has been proved that in order to minimize the negative impact of inflationary processes on economic growth, the policy of the National Bank of Ukraine should be aimed at eliminating the artificial squeezing of the money supply through a reasonable increase in the economy monetization and the implementation of an effective monetary policy.
İKİLİ İLİŞKİLERDE OLUMLU OLUMSUZ MÜKEMMELİYETÇİLİK ÖLÇEĞİ: GEÇERLİK VE GÜVENİRLİK ÇALIŞMASI
Authors: Taluy Nur
Published: July 2018

Bu çalışmanın amacı, İkili İlişkilerde Olumlu
Olumsuz Mükemmeliyetçilik Ölçeği’nin (İİOOMÖ / DAPS) geçerlik ve güvenirliğinin
incelenmesidir. Romantik bir ilişki içinde olan 319 kişi
üzerinde uygulanan İİOOMÖ’nün yakınsak geçerliğini sınamak amacıyla Çok Boyutlu
Mükemmeliyetçilik Ölçeği (ÇBMÖ-HF) kullanılmıştır. İİOOMÖ’nün yapı geçerliğini
sınamak için varimaks eksen döndürme yöntemi kullanılarak yapılan faktör
analizi sonucunda, orijinal ölçeğe uygun olan üç faktörlü bir yapı elde
edilmiştir. Alt ölçekler, “farklılık”, “yüksek standartlar” ve “düzen” adları
altında gruplanmıştır. Alt ölçeklerin Cronbach alfa iç tutarlık katsayıları .75
ile .87; test tekrar test güvenirlik katsayıları .53 ile .63 arasında
değişmektedir. Analizler, İİOOMÖ’nin Türk örneklemi üzerinde yeterli düzeyde
geçerlik ve güvenirlik değerlerine sahip olduğunu düşündürmektedir.