bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capacidad pulmonar y patrones respiratorios en adultos mayores de la población de Apatug y Atahualpa Tungurahua - Ecuador
Authors: Pastor Victoria , Pilco Daniela , Ortiz Villalba Paola , Zavala Calahorrano Alicia Marifernanda
Published: June 2019

Introducción: Los adultos mayores que residen en los Andes están expuestos a los efectos de la adaptación a gran altura y a los cambios fisiológicos provocados por el envejecimiento.

Objetivo: Evaluar la capacidad pulmonar y los patrones respiratorios en los adultos mayores que residen a gran altura.

Metodología: Estudio explicativo de corte experimental. Se seleccionaron dos comunidades de los Andes ecuatorianos de diferente altitud (Apatug y Atahualpa). Participaron 50 adultos mayores con edad promedio entre 75,44 ± 6,23 (Apatug) y 75± 8,25 (Atahualpa) Los criterios de inclusión fueron personas nativas mayores a 65 años. Los criterios de exclusión fueron la incapacidad de entender el procedimiento de las pruebas y contraindicaciones patológicas para realizar la prueba espirométrica. La espirometría se realizó de acuerdo con los criterios de la American Thoracic Society (ATS).

Resultados: Los resultados de la capacidad pulmonar de la población geriátrica de Apatug es de 3,7 litros ± 0,6 y de Atahualpa 5,4 litros ± 0,4. Los adultos mayores de Apatug obtuvieron patrones restrictivos (n=20) y obstructivos (n=3). En la parroquia de Atahualpa se encontró 12 participantes con patrón restrictivo. Existe disminución de la saturación en Apatug, (85,16 ± 4,4) y presión arterial (107/30 mmHg). Mientras que los niveles de saturación y presión arterial fueron normales en Atahualpa (91,6 ± 2,9 y 120/89 mmHg, respectivamente).  

Conclusiones: La población geriátrica de Apatug presenta niveles bajos de capacidad pulmonar y saturación en la sangre. Sin embargo, la presión arterial es normal. En la población de Atahualpa existen niveles normales de capacidad pulmonar, saturación y presión arterial.
Displacement as a Diasporic Experience in V.S. Naipaul's A House for Mr Biswas
Authors: Rai Ram Prasad
Published: June 2019

The term ‘displacement’ has a strong connection with diaspora literature that studies the experiences of pain and pleasure of the people in the diaspora. People in the diaspora do not have comfortable life. Since they are away from their homeland, it is not easy for them to get integrated into the new main stream society. Because of several variations such as language, culture, custom, religion, belief etc., they are to face difficulties in the host-land. They come across the feeling of displacement through alienation, homelessness, identity crisis etc. that are interconnected in the diaspora. Being a generation of indentured labor immigrant family, V. S. Naipaul himself has gone through such paining experiences that are indirectly expressed through the life experiences of the characters in his writing. While reading about Naipaul’s life story and of Mr. Biswas in the novel A House for Mr. Biswas, it can be understood that they sound similar strongly. In the novel, Naipaul shows how Mr. Biswas more importantly along with other people as the generation of indentured labour immigrant parents in Trinidad suffer from homelessness, displacement, alienation etc. This paper mainly focuses on the experiences of displacement along with homelessness, alienation etc. faced by Mr. Biswas and other characters as they are from Indian diasporic community.Crossing the Border: International Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies 5(2) 2017: 25-30
Faktor-Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Disiplin Kerja Karyawan Penunjang Medis dan Non Medis
Authors: Amin Muhammad , Sari Septi Puspita , Rachman Abdul
Published: June 2019

This study aims to determine the factors related to the work discipline of medical and non-medical support employees of the Soeprapto Mental Hospital, Bengkulu Province in 2017. This type of research is a quantitative study with a cross sectional research design. The results of statistical tests show that the relationship between exemplary leadership and work discipline p-value 0.016, the relationship between remuneration for work discipline p-value 0,000, the relationship between penalties for work discipline with a p-value of 0.009 while job objectives p-value of 0.390 and ability employees with a p-value of 0.375. In conclusion, there is a significant relationship between exemplary leaders, remuneration and penalties for work discipline. There is no significant relationship between job goals and employee abilities with the work discipline of medical and non-medical support employees at Soeprapto Mental Hospital, Bengkulu Province.

 

Keywords: Remuneration, Work Discipline, Exemplary Leaders, Punishment Sanctions
Silicon-carbon treatment out of inorganic impurities produced from the rice husk
Authors:   National Center of Complex Processing of Mineral Raw Materials of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sukharnikov Y.I. , Bunchuk L.V. ,   National Center of Complex Processing of Mineral Raw Materials of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Anarbekov K.K. ,   National Center of Complex Processing of Mineral Raw Materials of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kaplanbekov A.A. ,   National Center of Complex Processing of Mineral Raw Materials of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Published: June 2019

The process of silicon-carbon produced out of the rice husk treatment with HCl solution has been investigated and elaborated to purify from aluminum and phosphorous to their contents were less than 0.1 % each. Silicon-carbon with such contents of these impurities meets the requirements to as the multifunctional material for its application in various branches of industry and agriculture. It was demonstrated that the required content of aluminum and phosphorus in silicon-carbon can be achieved by two ways. Namely, by silicon-carbon production out of the pre-treated rice husk or by purification of silica-carbon obtained out of untreated rice husk. Considering the output of silicon-carbon out of rice husk equals to 33 %, it is more reasonable to submit the minor material mass to the acid treatment that is the silicon-carbon. The silicon-carbon treatment produced out of untreated rice husk (52.3 % С, 35.9 % SiO2, 0.2 % Al and 0.12 % P) was carried out with 0.5 – 3 % hydrochloric acid solutions at the temperature of 70-80 °С. As a result of laboratory studies and pilot testing, the processing method hydrochemical treatment of silicon-carbon was elaborated. The following optimal processing parameters were recommended: hydrochloric acid concentration in aqueous solution – 1 %, 75-80 °С, and treatment time is 60 minutes. The aluminum content was at the level of 0.085 %, and phosphorus was 0.04 % in the processed silicon-carbon. The obtained silicon-carbon with low level of inorganic elements can be applied as the charging material for smelting low-aluminum ferrosilicon and pure silicon, as the filler of carbon construction materials and elastomers.
Study of the optimality of hexagonal well location modes during the in-situ leaching of mineral
Authors:   al-Farabi Kazakh national university, Shayakhmetov N.M. , Kurmanseiit M.B. ,   Satbayev University, Almaty, Kazakhstan, Aizhulov D.Y. ,   Satbayev University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Published: June 2019

Mineral mining using the in-situ leaching method is based on injecting of leaching solution into the ore formation through injection wells, leaching out the mineral and extracting the pregnant solution (dissolved mineral) through the production wells. During the stage of the field designing, the main task is to determine the optimal drilling-in pattern, which implies the choice of the optimal location of the injection and production wells. This article is considered the different modes of the distance between production and injection wells with a hexagonal location and determines the optimality based on the economic indicators of each mode. As a result of the study, for the problem statement, the optimal distance between the wells was determined.
Major complications from radiotherapy following treatment for atypical meningiomas
Authors: Dawley Troy , Rana Zaker , Abou-Al-Shaar Hussam , Goenka Anuj , Schulder Michael
Published: June 2019

OBJECTIVE

Complications from radiotherapy (RT), in a primary or adjuvant setting, have overall been described as uncommon, with few detailed descriptions of major complications. The authors present two cases involving significant complications and their management in their review of patients undergoing RT for treatment of atypical meningioma.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective review of all patients with pathologically confirmed atypical meningioma (WHO grade II) treated with primary or adjuvant RT from February 2011 through February 2019. They identified two patients with long-term, grade 3 toxicity. The cases of these patients are described in detail.

RESULTS

Two patients had major complications associated with postoperative RT. Patients 1 and 2 both were treated with postoperative RT for pathologically confirmed atypical meningioma. Patient 1 experienced worsening behavioral changes, cognitive decline, and hydrocephalus following treatment. This required cerebrospinal fluid diversion. Patient 2 developed radiation necrosis with mass effect and cognitive decline. Neither patient returned to his/her initial post-RT status after steroid therapy, and each remained in need of supportive care. Both patients remained free of tumor progression at 52 and 38 months following treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The postoperative management of patients with atypical meningioma continues to be defined, with questions remaining regarding timing of RT, dose, target delineation, and fractionation. Both of the patients in this study received fractionated RT, which included a greater volume of normal brain than more focal treatment options such as would be required by stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Further research is needed to compare SRS and fractionated RT for the management of patients with grade II meningiomas. The more focused nature of SRS may make this a preferred option in certain cases of focal recurrence.
Trends in the utilization of radiotherapy for spinal meningiomas: insights from the 2004–2015 National Cancer Database
Authors: Yolcu Yagiz Ugur , Goyal Anshit , Alvi Mohammed Ali , Moinuddin FM , Bydon Mohamad
Published: June 2019

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have reported on the utility of radiosurgery for local control and symptom relief in spinal meningioma. The authors sought to evaluate national utilization trends in radiotherapy (including radiosurgery), investigate possible factors associated with its use in patients with spinal meningioma, and its impact on survival for atypical tumors.

METHODS

Using the ICD-O-3 topographical codes C70.1, C72.0, and C72.1 and histological codes 9530–9535 and 9537–9539, the authors queried the National Cancer Database for patients in whom spinal meningioma had been diagnosed between 2004 and 2015. Patients who had undergone radiation in addition to surgery and those who had received radiation as the only treatment were analyzed for factors associated with each treatment.

RESULTS

From among 10,458 patients with spinal meningioma in the database, the authors found a total of 268 patients who had received any type of radiation. The patients were divided into two main groups for the analysis of radiation alone (137 [51.1%]) and radiation plus surgery (131 [48.9%]). An age > 69 years (p < 0.001), male sex (p = 0.03), and tumor size 5 to < 6 cm (p < 0.001) were found to be associated with significantly higher odds of receiving radiation alone, whereas a Charlson-Deyo Comorbidity Index ≥ 2 (p = 0.01) was associated with significantly lower odds of receiving radiation alone. Moreover, a larger tumor size (2 to < 3 cm, p = 0.01; 3 to < 4 cm, p < 0.001; 4 to < 5 cm, p < 0.001; 5 to < 6 cm, p < 0.001; and ≥ 6 cm, p < 0.001; reference = 1 to < 2 cm), as well as borderline (p < 0.001) and malignant (p < 0.001) tumors were found to be associated with increased odds of undergoing radiation in addition to surgery. Receiving adjuvant radiation conferred a significant reduction in overall mortality among patients with borderline or malignant spinal meningiomas (HR 2.12, 95% CI 1.02–4.1, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The current analysis of cases from a national cancer database revealed a small increase in the use of radiation for the management of spinal meningioma without a significant increase in overall survival. Larger tumor size and borderline or malignant behavior were found to be associated with increased radiation use. Data in the present analysis failed to show an overall survival benefit in utilizing adjuvant radiation for atypical tumors.
Stereotactic radiosurgery versus stereotactic radiotherapy in the management of intracranial meningiomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fatima Nida , Meola Antonio , Pollom Erqi L. , Soltys Scott G. , Chang Steven D.
Published: June 2019

OBJECTIVE

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) have been used as a primary treatment or adjuvant to resection in the management of intracranial meningiomas (ICMs). The aim of this analysis is to compare the safety and long-term efficacy of SRS and SRT in patients with primary or recurrent ICMs.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature comparing SRT and SRS in the same study was conducted using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and EMBASE from January 1980 to December 2018. Randomized controlled trials, case-control studies, and cohort studies (prospective and retrospective) analyzing SRS versus SRT for the treatment of ICMs in adult patients (age > 16 years) were included. Pooled and subgroup analyses were based on the fixed-effect model.

RESULTS

A total of 1736 patients from 12 retrospective studies were included. The treatment modality used was: 1) SRS (n = 306), including Gamma Knife surgery (n = 36), linear accelerator (n = 261), and CyberKnife (n = 9); or 2) SRT (n = 1430), including hypofractionated SRT (hFSRT, n = 268) and full-fractionated SRT (FSRT, n = 1162). The median age of patients at the time of treatment was 59 years. The median follow-up duration after treatment was 35.5 months. The median tumor volumes at the time of treatment with SRS, hFSRT, and FSRT were 2.84 cm3, 5.45 cm3, and 12.75 cm3, respectively. The radiographic tumor control at last follow-up was significantly worse in patients who underwent SRS than SRT (odds ratio [OR] 0.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.27–0.82, p = 0.007) with 7% less volume of tumor shrinkage (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.61–1.40, p = 0.72). Compared to SRS, the radiographic tumor control was better achieved by FSRT (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26–0.80, p = 0.006) than by hFSRT (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.21–3.17, p = 0.76). Moreover, SRS leads to a significantly higher risk of clinical neurological worsening during follow-up (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.06–4.06, p = 0.03) and of immediate symptomatic edema (OR 4.58, 95% CI 1.67–12.56, p = 0.003) with respect to SRT. SRT could produce a better progression-free survival at 4–10 years compared to SRS, but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.29).

CONCLUSIONS

SRS and SRT are both safe options in the management of ICMs. However, SRT carries a better radiographic tumor control rate and a lower incidence of posttreatment symptomatic worsening and symptomatic edema, with respect to SRS. However, further prospective studies are still needed to validate these results.
External aggressions to health personnel in health centers of primary care in the city of Ibarra
Authors: Gordillo Corrales Verónica , Ferrer Villalobos Michelle , Elizabeth Burbano Cindy , Merino-Salazar Pamela
Published: June 2019

IntroductionAlthough the events of aggression in the work affect practically all the sectors and categories of the working population, there are groups with greater risk of suffering the objectiveof this study is to determine the frequency and the types of aggression towards the health professionals of centers of primary care in the city of Ibarra. Materials and methodsThis is an exploratory study carried out in 181 medical professionals, nurses and nursing assistants. The study variables included sociodemographic characteristics of the persons attacked, as well as the type and characteristics of the aggression, which were described by means of frequencies and percentages. Results66.9% of the participants reported assaults, of which 61.9% were verbal. The main aggressors were the patient or his relatives, women (61.2%), and people between 31 to 50 years (68, 6%). DiscussionIn a similar way to previous studies, in the present study it was observed that more than half of the participants have been victims of external aggressions in their workplace ConclusionsThe most frequent triggers were the delay in attention and the lack of resources . The high frequency of external aggressions in primary care health personnel requires establishing prevention, action and notification plans for these events.
Methodological analysis for environmental performance in sanitation structures in order to mitigate the effects of emerging pollutants, PPCPS
Authors: López Moya Alejandro Paúl , Delgado-Yánez Mónica
Published: June 2019

Introduction According to the typology of the product labels or in the Environmental Product Declarations (DAP), the standard EN15804 indicates three typologies that are a function of the stages covered in the study Objectiveto make a methodological contribution in relation to environmental performance in the construction of combined sewerage networks Materials and methodsis based on a search and obtain information on research conducted on the basis of the ACV in the construction of sewerage networks Results research provides the necessary information reduction of environmental impacts in the construction of networks of sewerage, being innovative environmental guide based on technical and bibliographic experiences. DiscussionThe type of sewer used depends on the characteristics of size, topography, economic conditions of the project ConclusionsIt is feasible to point out that there is no specific procedure
Loss of Midbrain Dopamine Neurons and Altered Apomorphine EEG Effects in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Vorobyov Vasily , Bakharev Boris , Medvinskaya Natalia , Nesterova Inna , Samokhin Alexander , Deev Alexander , Tatarnikova Olga , Ustyugov Aleksey A. , Sengpiel Frank , Bobkova Natalia
Published: June 2019

Cognitive malfunction, synaptic dysfunction, and disconnections in neural networks are core deficits in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). 5xFAD mice, a transgenic model of AD, are characterized by an enhanced level of amyloid-β and abnormal neurotransmission. The dopaminergic (DA) system has been shown to be involved in amyloid-β transformations and neuronal plasticity; however, its role in functional network changes in familial AD still remains unclear. In 5xFAD and non-transgenic freely moving mice, electroencephalograms (EEGs) were simultaneously recorded from the secondary motor cortex (MC), superficial layers of the hippocampal CA1 area (HPC), substantia nigra (SN), and ventral tegmental area (VTA). EEGs and their frequency spectra were analyzed before and after systemic injection of a DA receptor agonist, apomorphine (APO). In the baseline EEG from MC and HPC of 5xFAD mice, delta and alpha oscillations were enhanced and beta activity was attenuated, compared to control mice. In VTA and SN of 5xFAD mice, delta- theta activity was decreased and beta oscillations dominated. In control mice, APO suppressed delta activity in VTA to a higher extent than in MC, whereas in 5xFAD mice, this difference was eliminated due to attenuation of the delta suppression in VTA. APO increased beta activity in MC of mice from both groups while significant beta suppression was observed in VTA of 5xFAD mice. These mice were characterized by significant decrease of tyrosine hydroxylase immunopositive cells in both VTA and SN and of DA transporter in MC and hippocampal dentate gyrus. We suggest that the EEG modifications observed in 5xFAD mice are associated with alterations in dopaminergic transmission, resulting in adaptive changes in the cerebral networks in the course of familial AD development.
Mitochondrial Movement and Number Deficits in Embryonic Cortical Neurons from 3xTg-AD Mice
Authors: Cavendish John Z. , Sarkar Saumyendra N. , Colantonio Mark A. , Quintana Dominic D. , Ahmed Nadia , White Brishti A. , Engler-Chiurazzi Elizabeth B. , Simpkins James W.
Published: June 2019

Mitochondrial dysfunction is often found in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients and animal models. Clinical severity of AD is linked to early deficiencies in cognitive function and brain metabolism, indicating that pathological changes may begin early in life. Previous studies showed decreased mitochondrial function in primary hippocampal neurons from triple-transgenic Alzheimer’s disease (3xTg-AD) mice and mitochondrial movement and structure deficits in primary neurons exposed to amyloid-β oligomers. The present study characterized mitochondrial movement, number, and structure in 3xTg-AD primary cortical neurons and non-transgenic (nonTg) controls. We found a significant reduction in mitochondrial number and movement in 3xTg-AD primary cortical neurons with modest structural changes. Additionally, application of the sigma-1 receptor agonist, (+)SKF-10,047, markedly increased mitochondrial movement in both 3xTg-AD and nonTg primary cortical cultures after one hour of treatment. (+)SKF-10,047 also led to a trend of increased mitochondrial number in 3xTg-AD cultures. Embryonic mitochondrial movement and number deficits could be among the key steps in the early pathogenesis of AD that compromise cognitive or metabolic reserve, and amelioration of these deficits could be a promising area for further preclinical and clinical study.
Disentangling Heterogeneity in Alzheimer’s Disease: Two Empirically-Derived Subtypes
Authors: Blanken Anna E. , Dutt Shubir , Li Yanrong , Nation Daniel A. ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: June 2019

Background:

Clinical-pathological Alzheimer’s disease (AD) subtypes may help distill heterogeneity in patient presentation. To date, no studies have utilized neuropsychological and biological markers to identify preclinical subtypes with longitudinal stability.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to empirically derive AD endophenotypes using a combination of cognitive and biological markers.

Methods:

Hierarchical cluster analysis grouped dementia-free older adults using memory, executive and language abilities, and cerebrospinal fluid amyloid-β and phosphorylated tau. Brain volume differences, neuropsychological trajectory, and progression to dementia were compared, controlling for age, gender, education, and apolipoprotein E4 ( ApoE4).

Results:

Subgroups included asymptomatic-normal ( n = 653) with unimpaired cognition and subthreshold biomarkers, typical AD (TAD; n = 191) showing marked memory decline, high ApoE4 rates and abnormal biomarkers, and atypical AD (AAD; n = 132) with widespread cognitive decline, intermediate biomarker levels, older age, less education and more white matter lesions. Cognitive profiles showed longitudinal stability with corresponding patterns of cortical atrophy, despite nearly identical rates of progression to AD dementia.

Conclusion:

Two clinical-pathological AD subtypes are identified with potential implications for preventative efforts.
Higher Plasma Level of Nampt Presaging Memory Dysfunction in Chinese Type 2 Diabetes Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Huang Xi , Wang Chenchen , Tian Sai , Huang Rong , Guo Dan , Zhang Haoqiang , Shi Jijing , Wang Shaohua
Published: June 2019

Background:

In addition to glucose metabolism, adipocytokine Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt) has been proposed as a multifunctional protein involved in insulin resistance. Insulin resistance always occurs before the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and damages the cognition of T2DM patients very early.

Objective:

We aimed to investigate the role and potential clinical value of Nampt in early cognitive decline of T2DM.

Methods:

A total of 195 Chinese T2DM patients were enrolled and divided into a mild cognition impairment (MCI) group and a healthy cognition group according to Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score. Their cognitive function was extensively assessed. The plasma level of Nampt was measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

In the MCI group ( n = 78, MoCA < 26), the plasma level of Nampt was significantly higher than the controls ( p < 0.01). After adjusting for age, sex, and level of education, Nampt levels were negatively associated with most of the cognitive domains forecasting hypomnesia (all p < 0.007). Nevertheless, hierarchical regression analysis further revealed that Nampt was an independent risk factor of MCI in Chinese T2DM patients (all p < 0.05), including Logic Memory Test (β= –0.31, p < 0.01), Auditory Verbal Learning Test delayed recall (β= –0.26, p < 0.01), and so on, which represent memory function. Correlation analysis showed that Nampt related to insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and lipid levels (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

We found that higher plasma level of Nampt presages memory dysfunction in MCI in Chinese T2DM patients. Further studies are necessary to confirm its scanning and prognosis prediction value of the disease clinically.
Stable Co-Cultivation of the Moss Physcomitrella patens with Human Cells in vitro as a New Approach to Support Metabolism of Diseased Alzheimer Cells
Authors: Zakirova Elena Y. , Chastukhina Inna B. , Valeeva Lia R. , Vorobev Viacheslav V. , Rizvanov Albert A. , Palotás András , Shakirov Eugene V.
Published: June 2019

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating slowly progressive neurodegenerative disorder with no cure. While there are many hypotheses, the exact mechanism causing this pathology is still unknown. Among many other features, AD is characterized by brain hypometabolism and decreased sugar availability, to which neurons eventually succumb. In light of this aspect of the disease, we hypothesized that boosting fuel supply to neurons may help them survive or at least alleviate some of the symptoms. Here we demonstrate that live moss Physcomitrella patens cells can be safely co-cultured with human fibroblasts in vitro and thus have a potential for providing human cells with energy and other vital biomolecules. These data may form the foundation for the development of novel approaches to metabolic bioengineering and treatment of diseased cells based on live plants. In addition, by providing alternative energy sources to human tissues, the biotechnological potential of this interkingdom setup could also serve as a springboard to foster innovative dietary processes addressing current challenges of mankind such as famine or supporting long-haul space flight.
Acute effects of flavonoid-rich blueberry on cognitive and vascular function in healthy older adults
Authors: Dodd Georgina F. , Williams Claire M. , Butler Laurie T. , Spencer Jeremy P.E.
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND:

Consumption of flavonoids, natural compounds found in foods such as berries and cocoa, have been shown to be beneficial for cognitive function. However, less is known about potential mechanisms and acute benefits for the older population.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine whether acute intake of flavonoid-rich blueberry could have beneficial effects on cognitive function in a sample of healthy older adults and identify possible mechanisms.

METHODS:

A cross-over randomised controlled trial (RCT) was conducted (N = 18) with volunteers receiving a flavonoid-rich blueberry beverage (579mg of antho- and pro-cyanidins) on one visit and a sugar-matched control on another. Cognitive function was measured at baseline, 2 and 5 hours post consumption of the intervention and blood pressure (BP), arterial stiffness and plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration at baseline and an hour post-intervention.

RESULTS:

Whilst there was no significant effect of the intervention on global cognitive function, performance was significantly different at 2 compared to 5 hours following the control beverage ( p < 0.05), with a decline in performance relative to baseline at 2 hours, whereas cognitive function improved following the blueberry beverage at both post intervention time points. There was also a trend towards the blueberry beverage attenuating the increase in systolic BP evident following the control drink ( p = 0.08). Finally, there was a decrease in plasma concentration of BDNF post consumption of the control drink which was attenuated following the blueberry beverage, although not significantly ( p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

A single dose of flavonoid-rich blueberry could have a potentially protective effect on cognitive function in healthy older adults, possibly due to improved cerebrovascular function and positive interactions with cell signalling pathways involved in cognitive processes.
The supplementation with Resveratrol and α-Tocopherol could reduce the risk of sarcopenia in dogs by counteracting the oxidative stress
Authors: Pastor Raúl Francisco , Restani Patrizia , Romero Juan E. , Ferro Enzo B. , Serantes Diego R. , Ugalde Juan , Pastor Elena , Iermoli Roberto H.
Published: June 2019

Several scientific evidences show that oxidative stress is associated with the origin, progression and severity of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Due to the longer duration of life, sarcopenia, osteopenia, osteoporosis and cachexia are considered emerging syndromes for dogs and cats. The objective was to investigate the impact of a supplementation with resveratrol and α-tocopherol (JUVENIA®) on the harmful effects of oxidative stress in adult dogs. The study was able to demonstrate this supplementation was able to positively modulate creatine phosphokinase and alkaline phosphatase, which are considered useful biomarkers for sarcopenia, bone formation and speed in bone remodeling. As a result of the longer life of domestic animals and, in particular dogs, the use of food supplements with antioxidant activity could play a critical role in reducing/delaying the onset of chronic-degenerative diseases. On the basis of the present study, the use of products containing resveratrol and α-tocopherol acetate seems to be a promising approach for improving the health of dogs.
Application of automated bronchial 3D-CT measurement in pulmonary contusion complicated with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Li Yan , Dai Yongliang , Duan Xiaoyi , Zhang Weishan , Guo Youmin , Wang Jiansheng
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Quantitative measurement of bronchial morphological changes in pulmonary contusion with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has important clinical implications.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the morphological changes in bronchus before and after treatment in patients with pulmonary contusion combined with ARDS using an automated bronchial three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) measurement method.

METHODS

The study involves a dataset of CT images of 62 patients diagnosed with pulmonary contusion combined with ARDS. The volume of pulmonary contusion lesions was calculated as a percentage of the total lung volume using the automated 3D-CT method. The bronchial luminal cross-sectional area, wall cross-sectional area, the maximum and average wall thickness, the maximum and average luminal densities, intraluminal and extraluminal diameters, and circumferences of generations 2–4 bronchi before and after treatment were measured. Furthermore, the corresponding differences were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS

The luminal cross-sectional area, wall cross-sectional area, intraluminal and extraluminal diameters, and circumferences of generations 2–4 bronchi were all significantly lower before treatment than after treatment ( P < 0.05). However, the maximum and average wall thicknesses were both significantly higher before treatment than after treatment ( P < 0.05). No significant difference was found in the maximum and average luminal densities before and after treatment ( P > 0.05). The percentage of the pulmonary contusion lesion volume to the total lung volume correlated positively with the thoracic trauma severity score ( r = 0.74, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Quantitative bronchial CT image analysis enables to detect and assess bronchial morphological changes in patients diagnosed with pulmonary contusion combined with ARDS.
ANALYTICAL METHODS FOR ESTIMATION OF MYCOPHENOLIC ACID IN BULK AND IN PHARMACEUTICAL DOSAGE FORM: A REVIEW
Authors: Manjare Mr. A.U. , R.N. Mr. Kale
Published: June 2019

Mycophenolic acid is an anti-metabolite immunosuppressant. It also inhibits the enzyme inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase; essential for purine synthesis. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and the UV are an essential analytical tools in assessing drug product. HPLC methods should be able to isolate, detect, and enumerate the various drugs and drug associated degradants that can form on storage, or manufacturing. It should also detect and enumerate any drugs and drug-related impurities that may be introduced during synthesis. Validation is the process of establishing the performance characteristics and limits of a method and identification of the effects which may change these features and to what extent. This article discusses the current and potential uses of the drug mycophenolic acid as well as the plans and the subjects related to designing UV and HPLC method for development and validation.

Keywords: Mycophenolic acid, Immunosuppressant, HPLC, UV, Validation
Calidad de vida de los pacientes con baja visión en la ciudad de Bogotá
Authors: Cubides Cubides Liliana
Published: June 2019

El objetivo principal del estudio fue describir el estado de calidad de vida de pacientes con baja visión en la ciudad de Bogotá. La muestra fue de 164 personas entre 18 y 90 años que se obtuvo por conveniencia de una población de 326 personas de tres instituciones que atienden este tipo de población (Clínica de Ojos Ltda, Centro de Rehabilitación para Adultos Ciegos, Fundación discapacidad visual para Colombia), y que aceptaron participar en el estudio con la correspondiente firma del consentimiento informado. Los criterios de inclusión fueron mayores de 18 años, con agudeza visual desde 20/60 a 20/800 y pacientes con hemianopsias homónimas, sin alteraciones de tipo cognitivo ni síndromes asociados, personas que hayan tenido algún proceso de rehabilitación. Para dar cumplimiento al objetivo se implementó un estudio descriptivo, cuantitativo y cualitativo y se aplicó la encuesta LVQOL (Cuestionario LVQOL, American Journal of Opthalmology, Dic 2000, pg 796 Modificado por el grupo investigador) y la revisión de historias clínicas. La Investigación tuvo una duración de 29 meses y se realizó en conjunto con la facultad de Psicología como parte fundamental en el manejo integral de la rehabilitación.Se destacan a continuación los principales resultados: El 53% del estudio fue de género femenino. Los participantes del estudio están afiliados a la seguridad social al sistema contributivo en un 84%. En cuanto a la ocupación cambia de trabajador remunerado a hogar o a quedan pensionados, y los que continúan trabajando son trabajadores independientes. Las principales causas de diagnóstico de baja visión son: la miopía degenerativa, la degeneración macular relaciona con la edad y el glaucoma. El 70% de la población fue diagnosticada una vez surgió el problema, pero solo el 20% asiste a rehabilitación en el primer año. Las ayudas de lejos y de cerca para pacientes con baja visión fueron efectivas en más de un 70% de la población y las ayudas no ópticas casi no fueron prescritas.
Requisitos establecidos por la Corte Constitucional para la aplicación de la eutanasia en pacientes en etapa terminal
Authors: Almanza Katherine , Vélez Mary Luz , Londoño Paula Andrea , Obregón Marlon Giovanni , Álvarez Luis Gabriel , Zuluaga José Roberto
Published: June 2019

El siguiente proyecto integrador de semestre tiene como objetivo identificar cual ha sido la evolución de la jurisprudencia emitida por la Corte Constitucional respecto de la eutanasia en Colombia, lo anterior dado que este procedimiento es parte integral del derecho fundamental a morir dignamente, cuya implementación ha estado acompañada de gran debate y controversia entre amplios sectores de la sociedad colombiana.Pese a que el art. 11 de la Constitución Política establece que “el derecho a la vida es inviolable…” se aprecia una tendencia jurisprudencial progresiva en la que el derecho a morir dignamente, prevalece frente a este.Para analizar la jurisprudencia de la Corte Constitucional frente al tema, se utilizó la metodología de línea jurisprudencial desarrollada por Diego Eduardo López Medina en el libro “El Derecho de Los Jueces”, la cual permitió una clara identificación de las decisiones adoptadas por dicha corporación frente a la invocación del derecho a morir dignamente por parte de personas que en su mayoría lo consideraron vulnerado, además de los lineamientos trazados para su reglamentación.El desarrollo jurisprudencial sobre el tema es de gran importancia, debido a que   a través de este la Corte crea y reglamenta un nuevo derecho fundamental; el derecho a morir dignamente, marcando una clara tendencia de defensa del derecho al libre desarrollo de la personalidad, la autonomía y la dignidad humana; dichas providencias hacen parte fundamental del precedente jurisprudencial a tener en cuenta para futuras decisiones.Hacen parte del derecho a morir dignamente la eutanasia y la implementación de los cuidados paliativos en pacientes con enfermedad terminal, los cuales se analizan a profundidad dentro del presente estudio.
Derechos de cuarta generación para Colombia
Authors: Campos Duque Ángela María
Published: June 2019

Los Derechos Humanos son disposiciones universales que tienen el propósito de proteger los derechos de toda la población a nivel mundial o global, reconocimiento dado por el simple hecho de ser humano. El mundo evoluciona a un ritmo muy rápido y lo mismo debería evolucionar la normatividad para proteger los derechos de la población y los usuarios en el desarrollo acelerado de las nuevas tecnologías de comunicación. Internet, propaga la información de diferente índole económico, político, social y cultural pero ha sido evidente que también de carácter personal, violando todo prototipo de derechos individuales referentes a la privacidad, que en los últimos años ha sido indudablemente notorio lo vulnerable que es el sistema y el bajo espectro en control de garantías respecto a la protección  de estos derechos.
浅析新形势下如何强化企业食堂管理工作
Authors: 江 艳
Published: June 2019

随着我国社会经济的发展和人民生活富裕程度的提高，人们对饮食要求也越来越高，而作为企业食堂管理部门，如何适应新时代，做到与时俱进，通过科学的方法管理好食堂，保障职工的饮食安全与合理营养，降低食堂费用支出，节约管理成本，提高员工的工作积极性与幸福指数，是我们后勤管理部门工作的重中之重。
房建土建工程中高支模施工技术的应用研究
Authors: 鲍 仁政
Published: June 2019

目前，在进行房建土建施工中高支模施工技术得到了广泛的应用，这样在一定程度上也提升了土建施工的技术水平并为施工人员提供了便利，降低了施工难度。但是，在使用此项技术时还存在一些问题，给具体的施工带来不利的影响，严重的话还会导致安全问题的出现，因此要想有效的应用高支模施工技术，相关的施工人员应对其进行充分的研究，解决应用过程中所出现的问题，提升高支模施工技术在房建土建施工中的应用效率。
大木作榫卯结构施工技术
Authors: 张 帅光
Published: June 2019

近年来，随着城市建设和旅游业的发展，为了展现本地历史文化底蕴，满足人们对民族传统文化日渐强烈的追求，各地兴建了一大批以木、木石榫卯结构为主的仿古建筑。然而，传统的锤击榫卯组拼施工工法在施工过程中经常会受诸多因素影响，出现施工技术及质量问题，严重影响工程施工进度、质量。针对此现象，文章介绍了一种利用捆绑器组拼榫卯构件的施工工艺，并提出几点质量、安全控制的建议，以供参考。
剪力墙结构设计在建筑设计中的应用
Authors: 田 静
Published: June 2019

城市化进程中越来越多的高层建筑开始涌现，高层建筑能够提高土地利用率，剪力墙结构以其成本可控、稳定性强的特点广泛应用于高层建筑的设计中，但是在剪力墙结构的设计过程中，要想更好的提高设计质量，也需要遵循一定的原则，文章对剪力墙结构设计的应用及注意事项进行探讨。
建筑电气工程现场管理中存在的问题及策略
Authors: 丁 珊
Published: June 2019

随着科学技术的不断发展，电气设备越来越多地应用在各行各业以及人们的生活中，并且其功能和种类也在不断增加，同时电气设备的安装施工过程中的技术难度也不断提升，对于电气工程施工现场的管理显得十分重要。建筑工程的重要组成部分是建筑电气工程施工，建设质量直接影响建筑整体的质量和使用价值，因此，为了保证工程的建设质量，有必要加强建筑电工的施工管理，从而极大的改善建筑物的电力系统操作方面的安全以及稳定性。科学和技术的快速发展以及高速的经济发展，对建筑物的大规模以及功能化的开发进行了极大地支持和鼓励，人们对工作和生活的环境要求，不仅要求舒适和美丽，也要求安全和信赖。实际上表明实施现场的工程师管理，能够保证项目质量、提高项目建设水平、并充分发挥投资的有效手段。同时在维持市场秩序方面发挥了重要的积极促进作用。项目进度、质量和成本管理等方面的控制与现场工程师开展工作有着直接的关系。在建设管理过程中，必须使专业水平谨慎充分的得到发挥，并且要有认真负责的专业态度，建筑物的电气功能和运作开始后的安全性和可靠性才能得到有效的保障，为了节约能源，必须最大限度的利用材料。电气工程建设中的质量管理和安全管理是确保电气工程的顺利进行施工的重要因素。建设质量管理和安全管理对策创新和改革不仅有效降低了建筑电气工程的施工成本，还切实改善了施工企业的经济利益，为建筑电气工程施工质量改善奠定了良好基础。但是，电气工程施工现场的建设存在一些问题，会对项目管理质量产生一定的影响，因此相关管理人员应该加强对施工的管理，从而提高建筑工程施工的质量。带着这个问题，对建筑电气工程现场质量管理中还存在的问题进行了研究，并提出了具有针对性的改善意见。
Applying ELSA Speak Software in the Pronunciation Class: Students’ Perception
Authors: Sarmita Samad Ita , Aminullah Aminullah
Published: June 2019

This study aims at finding out the students’ perception towards the application of ELSA Speak software in their pronunciation class. A total number of 12 students are involved in this present study. Descriptive quantitative research design is applied in this study. It utilizes questionnaire to collect data and Likert-Scale to analyze the data. The result shows that students consider that the software is very good to be applied in learning pronunciation.
Sound Transmission Analysis of Viscoelastic Composite Multilayered Shells Structures
Authors: Valvano Stefano , Alaimo Andrea , Orlando Calogero
Published: June 2019

In the development of aircraft comfort, one of the main issues is the sound transmission analysis to estimate the insulation capability of aeronautical panels. In this work, a higher-order shell finite element is proposed for the passive noise insulation analysis of composite laminated structures embedding viscoelastic layers. Starting from the Principle of Virtual Displacements, the present Finite Elements are obtained by making use of higher-order Layer-Wise theories, employing the Mixed Interpolated Tensorial Components (MITC) method to avoid the shear locking effect and taking into account the frequency dependence of the viscoelastic material through the use of a fractional derivative model. The Rayleigh integral method is considered for the evaluation of the acoustic insulation of the panels. Numerical studies are carried out to demonstrate that the present shell finite element is an efficient and accurate tool for the sound transmission analysis. Different lamination sequences, different boundary conditions and various radius to thickness ratios are taken into account.
Developmental Competence of Domestic Cat Vitrified Oocytes in 3D Enriched Culture Conditions
Authors: Colombo Martina , Morselli Maria Giorgia , Tavares Mariana Riboli , Apparicio Maricy , Luvoni Gaia Cecilia
Published: June 2019

Cryoinjuries severely affect the competence of vitrified oocytes (VOs) to develop into embryos after warming. The use of culture conditions that provide physical and chemical support and resemble the in vivo microenvironment in which oocytes develop, such as 3D scaffolds and coculture systems, might be useful to improve VOs outcomes. In this study, an enriched culture system of 3D barium alginate microcapsules was employed for the in vitro embryo production of domestic cat VOs. Cryotop vitrified-warmed oocytes were in vitro matured for 24 h in the 3D system with or without fresh cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) in coculture, whereas a control group of VOs was cultured in traditional 2D microdrops of medium. After in vitro fertilization, presumptive embryos were cultured in 3D or 2D systems according to the maturation conditions. Vitrified oocytes were able to mature and develop into embryos in 3D microcapsules (17.42 ± 11.83%) as well as in 2D microdrops (14.96 ± 8.80%), but the coculture with companion COCs in 3D resulted in similar proportions of VOs embryo development (18.39 ± 16.67%; p = 1.00), although COCs presence allowed for blastocyst formation (0.95 ± 2.52%). In conclusion, embryos until late developmental stages were obtained from cat VOs, and 3D microcapsules were comparable to 2D microdrops, but improvements in post-warming conditions are still needed.
The Influence of Clay Content on Cave-ins in Tank Model Tests and Monitoring Indicators of Sinkhole Formation
Authors: Jeong Sueng-Won , Yum Byoung-Woo , Ryu Dong-Woo , Lee Hong-Jin , Jung Byeongju
Published: June 2019

Urban cave-ins may result from a sudden change in local hydrological, hydrogeological and anthropogenic conditions. Monitoring and predicting urban sinkholes is not straightforward, and solving the problem of urban cave-ins involves the incorporation of the fields of geodetics, geophysics and geochemistry. This paper examines the causes and consequences of sinkholes in sand-rich materials by using a small tank model apparatus. Tank model tests were conducted to simulate sinkhole formation, to gain a better understanding of the influencing factors of cavity formation, expansion and upward migration with different cavity water levels. Two commercial materials were used: Jumunjin sand and kaolinite clay. Materials with different grain-size distributions, i.e., sand (100% Jumunjin sand) and sand-clay mixtures (95% sand and 5% kaolinite clay), were considered to examine the roles of clay content in sinkhole risk. The test results show that the sand-rich materials exhibited a typical punching type of sinkhole subsidence and failure, and were very sensitive to changes in groundwater level, regardless of the grain-size distribution. The higher the groundwater level is, the higher the sinkhole risk is in terms of the speed of migration of the underground cavity fluids, cavity size and ground loosening. Therefore, sinkholes in urban areas covered with sand-rich materials are vulnerable to groundwater withdrawal. However, compared with pure sand, materials with small clay contents can reduce the time until collapse and the size of a sinkhole. Variations in pore water pressure may be used as a sinkhole indicator in areas where the ground deformation caused by groundwater depletion is considerable.
Optical Rotation Approach to Search for the Electric Dipole Moment of the Electron
Authors: Chubukov Dmitry V. , Skripnikov Leonid V. , Kutuzov Vasily N. , Chekhovskoi Sergey D. , Labzowsky Leonti N.
Published: June 2019

The P , T -odd Faraday effect (i.e., rotation of the polarization plane of light propagating through a medium in presence of the external electric field due to P , T symmetry violating interactions) is considered for several atomic species: Ra, Pb, Tl, Hg, Cs, and Xe. Corresponding theoretical simulation of P , T -odd Faraday experiment, with already achieved intracavity absorption spectroscopy characteristics and parameters, is performed. The results show that the magnetic dipole transitions in the Tl and Pb atoms as well as the electric dipole transitions in the Ra, Hg and Cs atoms are favorable for the observation of the P , T -odd Faraday optical rotation. The estimation of the rotation angle of the light polarization plane demonstrates that recently existing boundaries for the electron electric dipole moment can be improved by one-two orders of magnitude.
Shock Waves in Laser-Induced Plasmas
Authors: Campanella Beatrice , Legnaioli Stefano , Pagnotta Stefano , Poggialini Francesco , Palleschi Vincenzo
Published: June 2019

The production of a plasma by a pulsed laser beam in solids, liquids or gas is often associated with the generation of a strong shock wave, which can be studied and interpreted in the framework of the theory of strong explosion. In this review, we will briefly present a theoretical interpretation of the physical mechanisms of laser-generated shock waves. After that, we will discuss how the study of the dynamics of the laser-induced shock wave can be used for obtaining useful information about the laser–target interaction (for example, the energy delivered by the laser on the target material) or on the physical properties of the target itself (hardness). Finally, we will focus the discussion on how the laser-induced shock wave can be exploited in analytical applications of Laser-Induced Plasmas as, for example, in Double-Pulse Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy experiments.