bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Du « grand piétonnier » au projet urbain : atouts et défis pour le centre-ville de Bruxelles
Authors: Hubert Michel , Corijn Eric , Neuwels Julie , Hardy Margaux , Vermeulen Sofie , Vaesen Joost
Published: September 2017

Le nouveau piétonnier est l’un des principaux projets urbains conçus pour le centre de Bruxelles au cours des dernières décennies. En 2015, la voie de transit du Centre – le boulevard Anspach – a été déclarée interdite à la circulation automobile. Le réaménagement de l’espace public et la rénovation des principales stations de métro n’ont pas encore commencé. La réalisation et les défis de ce projet urbain sont, par définition, complexes. Des expériences menées dans le pays et à l’étranger montrent qu’il aura un impact important à différents niveaux : qualité de l’espace public, logement et équipements, économie locale et emploi, mobilité, accessibilité et logistique, activités sociales et culturelles, etc. Cependant, les données et analyses récentes sont souvent fragmentées, inexistantes ou insuffisamment disponibles pour tous les acteurs concernés. Pourtant, un projet urbain de qualité ne peut aboutir que lorsque ces informations sont rassemblées et partagées, mais aussi lorsqu’il porte une prise de décision. C’est pourquoi le BSI - Brussels Centre Observatory (BSI-BCO) suit ce projet de près. La présente note de synthèse s’appuie sur un travail publié précédemment [le Portfolio#1]. La partie 1 expose le contexte général du projet et la partie 2 développe l’aspect concret de quatre grands défis, sur la base de nos premières constatations. En conclusion, la note propose quelques pistes concrètes d’amélioration de la qualité et de la gestion du projet.
Van “grote voetgangerszone” tot stadsproject: troeven en uitdagingen voor het Brusselse stadscentrum
Authors: Hubert Michel , Corijn Eric , Neuwels Julie , Hardy Margaux , Vermeulen Sofie , Vaesen Joost
Published: September 2017

De nieuwe voetgangerszone is één van de belangrijkste stadsprojecten in het Brusselse stadscentrum van de afgelopen decennia. In 2015 werd de centrale doorgangsweg -Anspachlaan- autovrij gemaakt. De heraanleg van de publieke ruimte en vernieuwing van de belangrijkste metrostations moet nog starten. De realisatie en uitdagingen van dit stadsproject zijn per definitie complex. Ervaringen uit binnen- en buitenland tonen dat de impact groot zal zijn op verschillende niveau’s: de kwaliteit van de publieke ruimte, huisvesting en voorzieningen, de lokale economie en tewerkstelling, mobiliteit, bereikbaarheid en logistiek, de sociale en culturele activiteiten, enz. Recente gegevens en analyses zijn echter vaak gefragmenteerd, onbestaande, of onvoldoende toegankelijk voor alle betrokken actoren. Toch slaagt een kwaliteitsvol stadsproject pas wanneer deze kennis wordt gebundeld en gedeeld, maar ook besluitvorming ondersteunt. Daarom volgt het BSI - Brussels Centre Observatory (BSI-BCO) dit project van nabij op. Deze synthesenota bouwt verder op eerder gepubliceerd werk [het Portfolio#1]. Deel 1 belicht het project in haar ruimere context en deel 2 concretiseert vier grote uitdagingen op basis van onze eerste vaststellingen. De nota besluit met concrete pistes om de kwaliteit en het beheer van het project te verhogen.
Mechanical Properties Improvement Evaluation of Medium Carbon Steels Quenched in Different Media
Authors: Ikubanni Peter Pelumi , Adediran Adeolu Adesoji , Adeleke Adekunle Akanni , Ajao Kajogbola Rasaq , Agboola Olayinka Oluwole
Published: September 2017

The effect of quenching on the mechanical properties of medium carbon steels using coconut (CW) water, pap water (PW) and spent engine oil (SPE) which have been largely considered as wastes was investigated. All specimens were normalized at a temperature of 840 in order to remove residual stresses induced during machining operations. Various specimens were heated to ranges of 730-790 and soaked for the range of 30-60 minutes respectively. Brinnel hardness tester was used to obtain the hardness values while Testometric M500-50AT model machine was used for the tensile test of the specimens. The highest hardness value (609.97 BHN) was obtained from the specimen heated to 790 quenched in pap water as compared with 166.4 BHN for the normalized as-received sample. The yield (YS) and ultimate tensile (UTS) strengths of the quenched specimens were better than the normalized as-received sample. SPE-quenched samples yielded the highest YS and UTS combined. The hardness value increased while YS and UTS decreased with soaking time for different temperatures. The highest hardness value for the specimens was obtained from coconut and pap water. Rather than been considered as wastes, coconut water, pap water and spent engine oil can improve the mechanical properties of medium carbon steel when used as quenching media.
Simple Correlation Models for Estimation of Horizontal Global Solar Radiation for Oran, Northwest Algeria
Authors: Aoun Nouar , Bouchouicha Kada
Published: September 2017

In the literature, several correlation models have been developed to predict solar radiation on horizontal surfaces. In this paper, the daily solar radiation data and sunshine duration data measured during the period of 2006-2010, were used to calculate the monthly mean values of daily total solar radiation using five modified Angstrom–Prescott model and three day of the year based empirical models of Oran city (35°42 N and 00°36 W) in Algeria. Furthermore, those modified models are compared with three existing models. In order to evaluate the accuracy of the models, the statistical testing error such as R2, RMSE, rRMSE, MAPE and MBE are used. According to statistical test results and from the sunshine duration models, the polynomial model (#4) showed the best estimation results with a coefficient of determination R2=0.991, rRMSE=4.129%, and MAPE=3.635%. Furthermore, the accurate model from the day of the year models is the model (7), with R2=0.987, rRMSE=4.067%, and MAPE=3.5194%. Moreover, this paper finds that the best accuracy model to estimate the monthly mean daily solar radiation on horizontal surfaces in Oran city is the sine and cosine wave trigonometric model (#7).
Effect of Nickel Addition Study on the Mechanical Properties of the (Fe3C-Ni) Alloy Obtained by Solid Phase Compaction and Sintering
Authors: Mebarki Lahcene , Zidani Mosbah , Mechachti Said , Farh Hichem , Miroud Djamel
Published: September 2017

The present work aims at determining the effects of Nickel addition on the phase’s distribution in sintered part. It aims equally at identifying the effect of such addition on the microstructure and the mechanical properties. The addition to mixtures of alloying elements in their primitive form can lead to the formation of a heterogeneous microstructure in the sintered parts produced by the powder metallurgy (PM) process. It has been proved that the addition of nickel to an iron powder mixture forms nickel-rich areas (NRA) in the sintered parts. This is basically related to the low diffusion rate of nickel in iron at conventional sintering temperatures.
Textile Wastewater Treatment Using Sodom Apple (Calotropis procera) - Aided Tamarind Seed as a Coagulant
Authors: Giwa Saidat Olanipekun , Said Danladi Yakubu , Ibrahim Mustapha Danladi , Giwa Abdulwahab
Published: September 2017

Water contamination seems unavoidable as many human activities involve the use of water in one way or the other. Chemical coagulants, especially aluminium based, which are widely used in treatment of wastewater or contaminated water have been associated with some health issues. Research on the use of plant based coagulants in water treatment now draws a lot of attentions, not only because the natural coagulants are presumed safe but also because of their biodegradable nature. In this present study, efforts have been made to evaluate the effectiveness of locally available tamarind seed powder as natural coagulant and Sodom apple (Calotropis procera) as coagulant aid for the treatment of textile wastewater. The tests were carried out using the conventional jar test apparatus at various pH and coagulant dosage with no aid added. Also, three sets of jar test experiments were performed at constant values of coagulant dosage and pH (which were found to be favourable in the first experiments) by varying the dosage of liquid and solid coagulant aid as well as time. The results obtained show that pH slightly affected the pollutants removal efficiency of the unaided coagulation. The neutral pH was found to be favourable with turbidity and colour removal of 22.25% and 30.36% respectively. The optimum mixing time of turbidity removal efficiency was found to be 2 min with rapid mixing of 30 seconds and 1½ min of slow mixing with turbidity and colour removal of 69.48% and 60.53% respectively. The optimum dosage was found to be 4.0 g of coagulant and 1.0 g of coagulant aid for turbidity, total dissolved solid and colour removal efficiency.
Five hundred years on: Some traces of the Reformation in the Church Orders of two South African Reformed Churches – Seen as temporary expressions of the Church Order of the Reformed Synod of Dordrecht in 1619
Authors: Strauss Piet
Published: September 2017

This article examines the influence of the Reformation of the 16th century on the Church Orders of two South African Reformed Churches, namely the Dutch Reformed Church and the Reformed Churches in South Africa. The five so-called solas, namely sola gratia [by grace alone], sola scriptura [by Scripture alone], sola fidei [by faith alone], solus christus [Christ alone] and soli Deo gloria [glory to God alone], are widely accepted as key expressions of the convictions of the Reformation. Although not necessarily in the same terms, the content of the solas are also found in the thought of Calvin. These matters influenced the Synod of Dordrecht (1618–1619) in its acceptance of the Three Formulas of Unity as reformed confessions of faith and its affirmation of the Dordt Church Order. The said South African churches accept the Three Formulas of Unity as confessions of faith and view their church orders as a modern version of the Dordt Church Order – adapted to the demands of the time. This article mainly examines the consequences of sola scriptura and sola fidei on the church orders of the two churches. In terms of these two solas, both have traces of the Reformation after 500 years.
On the dimensions of attractors of random self-similar graph directed iterated function systems
Authors: Troscheit Sascha
Published: September 2017

In this paper we propose a new model of random graph directed fractals that extends the current well-known model of random graph directed iterated function systems,

V

-variable attractors, and fractal and Mandelbrot percolation. We study its dimensional properties for similarities with and without overlaps. In particular we show that for the two classes of

1

-variable and

\infty

-variable random graph directed attractors we introduce, the Hausdorff and upper box counting dimension coincide almost surely, irrespective of overlap. Under the additional assumption of the uniform strong separation condition we give an expression for the almost sure Hausdorff and Assouad dimension.
Blowup of Volterra Integro-Differential Equations and Applications to Semi-Linear Volterra Diffusion Equations
Authors: Yang Zhanwen , Tang Tao , Zhang Jiwei
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we discuss the blowup of Volterra integro-differential equations (VIDEs) with a dissipative linear term. To overcome the fluctuation of solutions, we establish a Razumikhin-type theorem to verify the unboundedness of solutions. We also introduce leaving-times and arriving-times for the estimation of the spending-times of solutions to ∞. Based on these two typical techniques, the blowup and global existence of solutions to VIDEs with local and global integrable kernels are presented. As applications, the critical exponents of semi-linear Volterra diffusion equations (SLVDEs) on bounded domains with constant kernel are generalized to SLVDEs on bounded domains and ℝN with some local integrable kernels. Moreover, the critical exponents of SLVDEs on both bounded domains and the unbounded domain ℝN are investigated for global integrable kernels.
Itô-Taylor Schemes for Solving Mean-Field Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Sun Yabing , Yang Jie , Zhao Weidong
Published: September 2017

This paper is devoted to numerical methods for mean-field stochastic differential equations (MSDEs). We first develop the mean-field Itô formula and mean-field Itô-Taylor expansion. Then based on the new formula and expansion, we propose the Itô-Taylor schemes of strong order γ and weak order η for MSDEs, and theoretically obtain the convergence rate γ of the strong Itô-Taylor scheme, which can be seen as an extension of the well-known fundamental strong convergence theorem to the mean-field SDE setting. Finally some numerical examples are given to verify our theoretical results.
Demographic, Socioeconomic, and Geographic Factors Leading to Severe Malaria and Delayed Care Seeking in Ugandan Children: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Mpimbaza Arthur , Ndeezi Grace , Katahoire Anne , Rosenthal Philip J. , Karamagi Charles
Published: September 2017

We studied associations between delayed care seeking, demographic, socioeconomic, and geographic factors and likelihood of severe malaria in Ugandan children. The study was based at Jinja Hospital, Uganda. We enrolled 325 severe malaria cases and 325 uncomplicated malaria controls matched by age and residence. Patient details, an itinerary of events in response to illness, household information, and location of participants’ residences were captured. Conditional logistic regression was used to determine risk factors for severe malaria and delayed care seeking. Delayed care seeking (≥ 24 hours after fever onset; odds ratio [OR] 5.50; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.70, 11.1), seeking care at a drug shop as the initial response to illness (OR 3.62; 95% CI 1.86, 7.03), and increasing distance from place of residence to the nearest health center (OR 1.45; 95% CI 1.17, 1.79) were independent risk factors for severe malaria. On subgroup analysis, delayed care seeking was a significant risk factor in children with severe malaria attributable to severe anemia (OR 15.6; 95% CI 3.02, 80.6), but not unconsciousness (OR 1.13; 95% CI 0.30, 4.28). Seeking care at a drug shop (OR 2.84; 95% CI 1.12, 7.21) and increasing distance to the nearest health center (OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.01, 1.37) were independent risk factors for delayed care seeking. Delayed care seeking and seeking care at a drug shop were risk factors for severe malaria. Seeking care at a drug shop was also a predictor of delayed care seeking. The role of drug shops in contributing to delayed care and risk of severe malaria requires further study.
Rip current evidence by hydrodynamic simulations, bathymetric surveys and UAV observation
Authors: Benassai Guido , Aucelli Pietro , Budillon Giorgio , De Stefano Massimo , Di Luccio Diana , Di Paola Gianluigi , Montella Raffaele , Mucerino Luigi , Sica Mario , Pennetta Micla
Published: September 2017

Abstract. The prediction of the formation, spacing and location of rip currents is a scientific challenge that can be achieved by means of different complementary methods. In this paper the analysis of numerical and experimental data, including RPAS (remotely piloted aircraft systems) observations, allowed us to detect the presence of rip currents and rip channels at the mouth of Sele River, in the Gulf of Salerno, southern Italy. The dataset used to analyze these phenomena consisted of two different bathymetric surveys, a detailed sediment analysis and a set of high-resolution wave numerical simulations, completed with Google EarthTM images and RPAS observations. The grain size trend analysis and the numerical simulations allowed us to identify the rip current occurrence, forced by topographically constrained channels incised on the seabed, which were compared with observations.
Tsunamis boulders on the rocky shores of Minorca (Balearic Islands)
Authors: Roig-Munar Francesc X. , Vilaplana Josep M. , Rodríguez-Perea Antoni , Martín-Prieto José A. , Gelabert Bernadí
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Large boulders have been found on marine cliffs of 24 study areas of Minorca, Balearic Archipelago. These large imbricated boulders, of up to 229 tonnes, are located on platforms that conform the rocky coastline of Minorca, several tenths of meters from the edge of the cliff, up to 15 m above the sea level, and kilometres away from any inland escarpment. They are mostly located on the southeast coast of the island, and numerical models have identified this coastline as a high tsunami impact zone. The age of the boulders in most of the studied localities show a good correlation with historical tsunamis. Age of the boulders, direction of imbrication and estimation of run-up necessary for their placement, indicate dislodging and transport by North Africa tsunami waves that hit the coastline of Minorca.
Constraints on post-depositional isotope modifications in East Antarctic firn from analysing temporal changes of isotope profiles
Authors: Münch Thomas , Kipfstuhl Sepp , Freitag Johannes , Meyer Hanno , Laepple Thomas
Published: September 2017

Abstract. The isotopic composition of water in ice sheets is extensively used to infer past climate changes. In low-accumulation regions their interpretation is, however, challenged by poorly constrained effects that may influence the initial isotope signal during and after deposition of the snow. This is reflected in snow-pit isotope data from Kohnen Station, Antarctica, which exhibit a seasonal cycle but also strong interannual variations that contradict local temperature observations. These inconsistencies persist even after averaging many profiles and are thus not explained by local stratigraphic noise. Previous studies have suggested that post-depositional processes may significantly influence the isotopic composition of East Antarctic firn. Here, we investigate the importance of post-depositional processes within the open-porous firn (≳ 10 cm depth) at Kohnen Station by separating spatial from temporal variability. To this end, we analyse 22 isotope profiles obtained from two snow trenches and examine the temporal isotope modifications by comparing the new data with published trench data extracted 2 years earlier. The initial isotope profiles undergo changes over time due to downward advection, firn diffusion and densification in magnitudes consistent with independent estimates. Beyond that, we find further modifications of the original isotope record to be unlikely or small in magnitude (≪ 1 ‰ RMSD). These results show that the discrepancy between local temperatures and isotopes most likely originates from spatially coherent processes prior to or during deposition, such as precipitation intermittency or systematic isotope modifications acting on drifting or loose surface snow.
Reflective properties of melt ponds on sea ice
Authors: Malinka Aleksey , Zege Eleonora , Istomina Larysa , Heygster Georg , Spreen Gunnar , Perovich Donald , Polashenski Chris
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Melt ponds occupy a large part of the Arctic sea ice in summer and affect strongly the radiative budget of the atmosphere-ice-ocean system. In this study the melt pond reflectance is considered in the framework of the radiative transfer theory. The melt pond is modeled as a plane-parallel layer of pure water upon a layer of sea ice (pond bottom). The reflection is considered as comprising of Fresnel reflection by the water surface and multiple reflections between the pond surface and its bottom, which is assumed to be Lambertian. Analytical formulas are put forward to calculate the bidirectional reflectance factor (BRF) and the albedo at different incident angles. The effects of the incident conditions and the atmosphere state are examined. The optical model developed is verified with data from in situ measurements made during several field campaigns performed on landfast and pack ice in the Arctic. The comparison to field spectra demonstrates good performance of the developed model for the variety of melt pond types observed in the Arctic.
Mentoring at Girls Write Now
Authors: Bauer-Maglin Nan
Published: September 2017

Founded in 1998, Girls Write Now (GWN) mentors underserved high school girls from throughout New York City’s five boroughs—over 90% high need and 95% girls of color.   GWN runs two programs for mentors and mentees: the Writing & Mentoring and Digital Media Mentoring programs. The Writing & Mentoring program currently has 180 people (90 mentees, 90 mentors) and the Digital Media Mentoring program has 100 people (50 mentees, 50 mentors). This article is about the writing program as that is the one I volunteer for.
Introduction: Toward Public Pedagogies: Teaching Outside Traditional Classrooms
Authors: Dittmar Linda , Annas Pamela
Published: September 2017

This is the introduction to RT #108, by the editors:  Linda Dittmar and Pamela Annas
News for Educational Workers
Authors: Vogt Leonard
Published: September 2017

News for Educational Workers, Fall 2017.
BERTOLT BRECHT E O CÔMICO POPULAR KARL VALENTIN – PRINCÍPIOS DA BUFONARIA PARA UMA ATUAÇÃO CRÍTICA
Authors: Bordin Vanessa Benites
Published: September 2017

Neste artigo analisa-se como Bertolt Brecht se apropria dos elementos característicos da bufonaria a partir de sua vivência prática ao lado do cômico popular Karl Valentin para pensar técnicas para o ator de seu teatro, um teatro que almeja a transformação social. Essa análise surge a partir de reflexões dentro de uma pesquisa que se desenvolve desde a graduação em Teatro, e que, atualmente, vem ganhando maiores dimensões no doutorado e docência, permeando os estudos e práticas com o bufão que tem como eixo a relação entre a prática artística e política do ator que busca no humor uma possibilidade criativa na tentativa de realizar a crítica social, ou ainda, abrir espaço de debate sobre questões políticas que acredita pertinentes de reflexão. Para tanto, busca-se referências de atores cômicos, que utilizam elementos da bufonaria e do humor em suas práticas cênicas para realizarem a crítica social, tentando compreender como se opera na prática esse jogo cômico que visa a denúncia.
MEDUSA AO REVERSO: UMA JORNADA ENTRE MITOS, PEDRAS E DANÇAS
Authors: Oliveira Kamilla Mesquita
Published: September 2017

O presente artigo é uma das amplificações acadêmicas resultantes de uma pesquisa de doutoramento em Artes da Cena pela UNICAMP, realizada pela própria autora. Trata-se de um relato crítico da vivência de um processo de criação em dança, no qual a intérprete-criadora investiga a partir da própria vivência corporal as relações intrínsecas entre corpo; mitologia e imagens escultóricas.O trabalho cênico é intitulado poeticamente de Medusa ao Reverso, afinal um dos motes de criação trata, justamente, da imagem escultórica, mais especificamente obras da escultora francesa Camille Claudel, que, de forma poética, converge as esculturas (pedras) em movimento dançado (diversamente ao mito da Medusa que transforma corpos vivos em esculturas de pedras).
O CORPO BANDEIRA - SUJEITO FEMININO, OBJETO DE ARTE
Authors: Rodrigues Brisa
Published: September 2017

Este artigo faz um apanhado histórico sobre o movimento feminista para apresentar o conceito de “corpo bandeira”, a partir das manifestações feministas que utilizam o corpo da mulher como sujeito e objeto de reivindicação. Defende que as manifestações feministas em passeatas são performances que ajudam a construir a história a partir de perspectivas pessoais e coletivas das mulheres. O artigo discute ainda a importância das novas mídias sociais para a renovação do movimento feminista, pelo uso das plataformas de rede para propagar ideias e experiências de mulheres que decidem expor suas histórias como manifesto. Apresenta, portanto a nova onda feminista, o “Feminismo Pop”.
Poder local, regional e redes políticas da família Anibelli, no Paraná (1944-2017)
Authors: Alves Alessandro Cavassin , Zimmer Juliano
Published: September 2017

O artigo a seguir tem por finalidade analisar sociologicamente três atores políticos da família Annibelli envolvidos no poder regional paranaense no período que vai de 1944 a 2017, presentes em Prefeitura, Secretarias de Estado, Assembleia Legislativa, Ministério Público e Governo, dessa forma construindo redes políticas. A pesquisa irá identificar a trajetória de vida de cada um deles, do ponto de vista geracional, do poder sendo passado de pai para filho e neto. A intenção é destacar as heranças familiares, associadas ao poder econômico da família em questão e partindo da hipótese de que os candidatos com maior potencial eleitoral pertencem a famílias históricas, pelo fato de lhes proporcionar vantagens sob os demais concorrentes. Ricardo Costa de Oliveira destaca a importância de se “mapear” as famílias e suas conexões políticas que acabam se perpetuando no poder, até para se compreender melhor a dinâmica eleitoral, tornando-se fonte de informação para a sociedade.
Diophantine quadruples of numbers whose elements are in proportion
Authors: Ramasamy A.M.S.
Published: September 2017

In this paper certain non-F-type $P_{3,k}$ sequences which contain Diophantine quadruples of numbers in proportion are presented. It is proved that there exist an infinite number of non-F-type $P_{3,k}$ sequences which possess Diophantine quadruples of numbers in proportion.
Higher order optimality and duality in fractional vector optimization over cones
Authors: Kapoor Muskan , Suneja Surjeet Kaur , Grover Meetu Bhatia
Published: September 2017

In this paper we give higher order sufficient optimality conditions for a fractional vector optimization problem over cones, using higher order cone-convex functions. A higher order Schaible type dual program is formulated over cones.Weak, strong and converse duality results are established by using the higher order cone convex and other related functions.
Glucose tolerance disorders during treatment with glucocorticoids in patients with inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system – based on the analysis of data from the literature and own research results
Authors: Dąbrowski Piotr , Majdan Maria
Published: September 2017

Glucocorticoids are among the most frequently used anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs. They are widely used in the treatment of numerous autoimmune disorders. However, the treatment with glucocorticoids is connected with the risk of a number of side effects. Among them, glucose tolerance disorders play an important role. The results of meta-analyses show that the risk of diabetes is from 1.4 to 2.5 times higher in the case of treated patients in comparison to the general population. Glucocorticoids can directly impair pancreatic β-cell secretion. Nevertheless, a crucial role in the hyperglycemic activity seems to be played by a peripheral glucose uptake reduction, principally in the skeletal muscle, which is responsible for the decrease of insulin sensitivity, and can manifest itself in the increase of postprandial blood glucose levels. If they are used in higher doses and for a prolonged period, they can also reduce the inhibitory effect of insulin on hepatic glucose production, which can lead to an increase of fasting plasma glucose. Numerous literature data indicate that in the case of patients who suffer from inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system, the treatment with low to moderate doses of glucocorticoids, for a short period, does not significantly increase the metabolic risk. The beneficial role in this area may be connected with an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effect. The regular assessment of the postprandial glucose, especially in the afternoon and evening, has the highest diagnostic sensitivity of glucocorticoid-induced glucose tolerance disorders. In the case of patients without a prior diagnosis of diabetes, after discontinuation of treatment, the oral glucose tolerance test should be considered in order to identify the presence of persistent disorders.
Bacteriocins from lactic acid bacteria as an alternative to antibiotics
Authors: Ołdak Aleksandra , Zielińska Dorota
Published: September 2017

Bacteriocins are ribosomally synthesized, proteinaceous substances that inhibit the growth of closely related species through numerous mechanisms. The classification system used in this review divided bacteriocins into four sub-groups based on their size. Currently, there is extensive research focused on bacteriocins and their usage as a food preservative.The increasing incidence of multidrug resistant bacterial pathogens is one of the most pressing medical problems in recent years. Recently, the potential clinical application of LAB (Lactic Acid Bacteria) bacteriocin has been the subject of investigations by many scientists.Bacteriocins can be considered in a sense as antibiotic, although they differ from conventional antibiotics in numerous aspects. The gene-encoded nature of bacteriocins makes them easily amenable through bioengineering to either increase their activity or specify target microorganism. Owing to this feature of bacteriocins, antibiotic therapy would become less damaging to the natural gut microflora, which is a common drawback of conventional antibiotic use. Bacteriocins from lactic acid bacteria represent one of the most studied microbial defense systems and the idea of subjecting them to bioengineering to either increase antimicrobial activity or further specify their target microorganism is now a rapidly expanding field. This review aimed to present bacteriocins as a possible alternative to conventional antibiotics basic on latest scientific data.
Pharmacological features of osthole
Authors: Jarząb Agata , Grabarska Aneta , Skalicka-Woźniak Krystyna , Stepulak Andrzej
Published: September 2017

Coumarins are a group of naturally occurring compounds common in the plant world. These substances and their derivatives exhibit a broad range of biological activities.One of the naturally occurring coumarins is osthole, which can most frequently be found in plants of the Apiaceae family. Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson ex Juss. Angelica pubescens Maxim. and Peucedanum ostruthium (L.). It has anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsant, and antiallergic properties; apart from that, inhibition of platelet aggregation has also been proved. The impact of osthole on bone metabolism has been demonstrated; also its hepatoprotective and neuroprotective properties have been confirmed. The inhibitory effect of this metokcompound on the development of neurodegenerative diseases has been proved in experimental models. Anticancer features of osthole have been also demonstrated both in vitro on different cell lines, and in vivo using animals xenografts. Osthole inhibited proliferation, motility and invasiveness of tumor cells, which may be associated with the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle slowdown. The exact molecular mechanism of osthole anti-cancer mode of action has not been fully elucidated. A synergistic effect of osthole with other anti-tumor substances has been also reported. Modification of its chemical structure led to the synthesis of many derivatives with significant anticancer effects.To sum up, osthole is an interesting therapeutic option, due to both its direct effect on tumor cells, as well as its neuroprotective or anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, there is a chance to use osthole or its synthetic derivatives in the treatment of cancer.
Experimental model for acute kidney injury caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Skowron Beata , Baranowska Agnieszka , Kaszuba-Zwoińska Jolanta , Więcek Grażyna , Malska-Woźniak Anna , Heczko Piotr , Strus Magdalena
Published: September 2017

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the rapid deterioration of renal function, diagnosed on the basis of an increase in serum creatinine and abnormal urinary parameters. AKI is associated with increased risk of mortality or chronic kidney disease (CKD).The aim of the study was to develop an experimental model for AKI resulting from Escherichia coli-induced pyelonephritis. E. coli was isolated from a patient with clinical symptoms of urinary tract infection (UTI).Material/Methods: The study included three groups of female Wistar rats (groups 1, 2 and 3), in which pyelonephritis was induced by transurethral inoculation with highly virulent E. coli (105, 107 and 109 cfu/ml, respectively). Urine and blood samples for analysis were obtained prior to the inoculation (day 0), as well as 7, 14 and 21 days thereafter.Results: Aside from a microbiological examination of urine samples, daily urine output, serum creatinine (CreaS), creatinine clearance (CrCl), interleukin 6 (IL-6), fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) and fractional excretion of urea (FEUrea) were determined. A histopathological examination of kidney and urinary bladder specimens was conducted as well. While UTI-related pyelonephritis developed irrespective of E. coli inoculum size, AKI was observed only following transurethral administration of E. coli at the intermediate and high dose, i.e. 107 and 109 cfu/ml, respectively (group 2 and 3). Discussion: An increase in CreaS and abnormal diuresis were accompanied by changes in parameters specific for various forms of AKI, i.e. FENa and FEUrea. Based on these changes, administration of E. coli at 107 cfu/ml was demonstrated to induce renal AKI, whereas inoculation with 109 cfu/ml seemed to cause not only ascending pyelonephritis, but perhaps also bacteremia and urosepsis (prerenal component of AKI).
Role of copper in the process of spermatogenesis
Authors: Ogórek Mateusz , Gąsior Łukasz , Pierzchała Olga , Daszkiewicz Regina , Lenartowicz Małgorzata
Published: September 2017

Copper (Cu) is an essential trace element required for the normal development of living organisms. Due to its redox potential, copper is a cofactor in many enzymes responsible for important processes in cells. Copper deficiency has a significant influence on the reduction or the total eradication of copper-dependent enzymes in the body, thereby inhibiting cell life processes. On the other hand, copper is a very reactive element and in its free state, it can trigger the production of large amounts of free radicals, which will consequently lead to the damage of proteins and DNA. Because of those reasons, living organisms have developed precise mechanisms regulating the concentration of copper in cells. Copper also plays a very important role in male fertility. It is an essential element for the production of male gametes. The significant role of copper is also described in the processes of cell division – mitotic and meiotic. Copper-dependent enzymes such as ceruloplasmin, superoxide dismutase SOD1 and SOD3, group of metallothionein and cytochrome c oxidase are present at all stages of gametogenesis as well as in the somatic cells of the testis and in the somatic cells of epididymis. Substantial amounts of copper can also be found in liquids associated with sperm in the epididymis and prostate. Copper also affects the integral androgen distribution in terms of fertility on the line hypothalamic-pituitary-testis. Both copper increase and deficiency leads to a significant reduction in male fertility, which spans the entire spectrum of abnormalities at the sperm level, male gonad, production of hormones and distribution of micronutrients such as zinc and iron. Nowadays, the effects of copper on gametes production have become more important and are connected with the increasing levels of pollution with heavy metals in environment.
Mitochondrial functionality in female reproduction
Authors: Gąsior Łukasz , Daszkiewicz Regina , Ogórek Mateusz , Polański Zbigniew
Published: September 2017

In most animal species female germ cells are the source of mitochondrial genome for the whole body of individuals. As a source of mitochondrial DNA for future generations the mitochondria in the female germ line undergo dynamic quantitative and qualitative changes. In addition to maintaining the intact template of mitochondrial genome from one generation to another, mitochondrial role in oocytes is much more complex and pleiotropic. The quality of mitochondria determines the ability of meiotic divisions, fertilization ability, and activation after fertilization or sustaining development of a new embryo. The presence of normal number of functional mitochondria is also crucial for proper implantation and pregnancy maintaining. This article addresses issues of mitochondrial role and function in mammalian oocyte and presents new approaches in studies of mitochondrial function in female germ cells.
The role of trophic factors and inflammatory processes in physical activity-induced neuroprotection in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Pałasz Ewelina , Bąk Agnieszka , Gąsiorowska Anna , Niewiadomska Grażyna
Published: September 2017

Glial cells and neurotrophins play an important role in maintaining homeostasis of the CNS. Disturbances of their function can lead to a number of nervous system diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). Current clinical studies provide evidence that moderate physical activity adapted to the health status of PD patients can support pharmacological treatment, slow down the onset of motor impairments, and extend the patients period of independence. Physical activity, by stimulating the production and release of endogenous trophic factors, prevents the neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons via inhibition of inflammatory processes and the reduction of oxidative stress. The aim of this study is to present the current state of knowledge for the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of physical activity as a supportive therapy in Parkinson’s disease.
Uzasadnianie kryminalizacji na wybranych przykładach
przepisów pozakodeksowego prawa karnego sensu largo
Authors: Oleksy Kacper
Published: September 2017

The axiological fundaments of criminalisation of certain human behaviours are set out in the Constitution of the Republic of Poland. Their application is problematic, especially in the case of crimes and petty offences regulated outside of the Criminal Code and the Code of Petty Offences. The analysis of the examples of such criminal offences, touching in particular the commercial activity, brings to the conclusion that the prinicples of criminalisation used by the Polish legislative power are unclear. The parliament does not provide the courts and administration with any motives of its decisions, which may hinder the proper application of law. Such situation encourages the jurisprudence to propose different procedural schemes for the decision on criminalisation.
Instytucja ciągu przestępstw po 1 lipca 2015 r.
Authors: Górski Arkadiusz
Published: September 2017

The institution of series of crimes regulates the situation of coincidence of crimes which are connected in a specific way. This connections are ground for different penalty – one penalty for all crimes. The amendment of criminal law, conducted in 2015, made changes also in the chapter IX of the polish criminal code and modified provision 91. The legislator decided to replace some premises. The premise of a similar way of committing a crime was replaced by the premise of using the same opportunity. The amendment also modified a demand of an identical criminal qualification for all crimes covered by the institution of series of crimes. Since then, the demand of an identity has been applied to a provision which is the basis of penalty size. The aim of this paper is to discuss the changes conducted in 2015 and evaluate the whole institution of series of crimes.
A Validated High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatographic Method for the Simultaneous Determination of Zofenopril Calcium and Hydrochlorothiazide in the Presence of the Hydrochlorothiazide Impurities: Chlorothiazide and Salamide
Authors: Rezk Mamdouh R , Fayed Ahmed S , Marzouk Hoda M , Abbas Samah S
Published: September 2017

The chromatographic analysis of either process-related impurities or degradation products is very important in the pharmaceutical industry. In this work, a simple, selective, and sensitive HPTLC method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of zofenopril calcium (ZOF) and hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) in the presence of the HCT impurities: A) chlorothiazide (CT) and B) salamide, in raw materials and in pharmaceutical formulation. The separation was carried out on HPTLC silica gel 60 F254 using ethyl acetate–glacial acetic acid–triethylamine (10 + 0.1 + 0.1, v/v/v) as a developing system. The separated bands were scanned densitometrically at 270 nm. Polynomial equations were used for the regression. Calibration curves were constructed for ZOF, HCT, CT, and salamide in the ranges of 0.5–10, 0.2–4, 0.05–1.4, and 0.05–1.0 μg/band, respectively. Different parameters affecting the suggested method, including developing systems of varying composition/ratios and different detection wavelengths, were studied to achieve the best resolution and precision with good sensitivity. System suitability parameters were also tested. The proposed method was validated as per the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines and was successfully applied for the quantification of the studied drugs in their pharmaceutical formulation, with no interference from excipients observed. The results obtained by the developed HPTLC method were compared statistically with those obtained by the reported HPLC method using Student’s t and F ratio tests, and no significant difference was obtained, indicating the ability of the proposed method to be used for routine analysis of drug product.
A Pilot Project for Clinical Pharmacy Services in a Clinic for Children With Medical Complexity
Authors: Tjon James , Chen Lori , Pe Michael , Poh Jennifer , Strzelecki Marina
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of the project was to assess the impact of clinical pharmacy services in a clinic for children with medical complexity. Secondary objectives were to identify and characterize the drug-related needs of these patients and to describe and develop the role of a pharmacist in the clinic.

METHODS

This was a prospective descriptive study in which a clinical pharmacist staffed the clinic for children with medical complexity for 11 weeks, from January to March 2011. This allowed for the collection of baseline data, such as patient characteristics and measurements of pharmacist workload and assessment (eg, types of drug therapy problems, medication reconciliation, medication teaching).

RESULTS

A pharmacist participated in 46 clinic visits with 43 patients, identifying a total of 42 drug therapy problems. Of the 42 problems, 35 actual and 7 potential drug problems were identified, resulting in approximately 1 problem per patient. The most common actual problems included “dose too small” (37.1%) and “patient requires a medication for untreated condition” (20%). Common potential problems included “drug interactions” (43%) and “adverse effects” (57%).

CONCLUSIONS

The pilot study demonstrates that children with medical complexity are at high risk for drug therapy problems and the presence of a clinic pharmacist is beneficial in the identification, prevention, and resolution of drug therapy problems, while helping ensure continuity of care in this population.
Factors Associated With Dispensing Dosage Delivery Devices
Authors: Wojewoda Eva , Chou Katherine J.
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVES

A potential cause of medication errors in children is imprecise measurements, particularly using household spoons. There are no regulations requiring dispensing dose delivery devices (DDDs) with liquid prescription medications. Local, regional, and national pharmacy practice patterns are largely unknown. This study sought to determine how frequently devices are provided with prescription pediatric liquid medications with instructions for their use at pharmacies in Bronx, New York, and to examine which pharmacy and pharmacist characteristics are associated with reported practices.

METHODS

All pharmacies in Bronx, New York, were identified using an online telephone directory. A telephone survey was administered to the senior-level pharmacist that elicited availability of DDDs, whether pharmacy policy regarding dispensing devices existed, the pharmacist's personal practice of dispensing devices, and years in practice.

RESULTS

In total, 268 pharmacies were contacted; 214 had free DDDs (79.9%) most of the time, 97.8% had them available to buy, and 160 (59.7%) had no policy regarding dispensing devices. Overall, 199 pharmacists (74.3%) routinely dispensed devices, and 195 (73.3%) demonstrated the use of devices. However, 94 pharmacists (35.3%) recommended using a household spoon to measure correct doses at least some of the time. Pharmacists were less likely to give devices as their years in practice increased.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, many Bronx pharmacies had no policy regarding dispensing DDDs for prescription liquid medications, and dispensing practices varied among pharmacists based on years in practice. If similar trends are found in other areas, standardizing pharmacy policy and pharmacists' practices may decrease morbidity in children due to medication measurement errors.
Decreasing the Time to Oral Antibiotics in a University Hospital Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Thompson R. Zachary , Gardner Brian , Carter Thomas , Schadler Aric , Allen Joye , Bailey Abby
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVES

To compare time to administration of oral antibiotics in the pediatric emergency department (ED) when antibiotics are stored in the pediatric ED versus when they were dispensed by central pharmacy services within an academic medical center.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of patients who received a one-time dose of oral antibiotics within the pediatric ED and were subsequently discharged home. Two 3-month time periods were compared to determine the metrics of providing oral antibiotics before and after these medications were stocked in the pediatric ED automated dispensing cabinet (ADC). The primary outcome was to compare the time to administration. Secondary outcomes were to assess wastage of stocked medications and time to ED discharge.

RESULTS

In the ADC time period (n = 74), the median time to administration was 17.5 minutes versus 57 minutes in the central pharmacy time period (n = 34) (p < 0.001). The ED length of stay during the ADC time period was 188.5 minutes versus 228.5 minutes (p = 0.094). 35.4% of doses from the ADC expired resulting in a wholesale acquisition cost of $53.14 wasted.

CONCLUSION

Stocking commonly used oral antibiotics in the pediatric ED led to a significant decrease in the time to medication administration. This decreased time to administration has the potential to lead to improved patient and nursing satisfaction. Routine surveillance is needed after implementation to ensure compliance and to minimize wastage.
Mathematics Learned by Young Children in an Intervention Based on Learning Trajectories: A Large-Scale Cluster Randomized Trial
Authors: Clements Douglas H. , Sarama Julie , Spitler Mary Elaine , Lange Alissa A. , Wolfe Christopher B.
Published: September 2017

This study employed a cluster randomized trial design to evaluate the effectiveness of a research-based intervention for improving the mathematics education of very young children. This intervention includes the Building Blocks mathematics curriculum, which is structured in research-based learning trajectories, and congruous professional development emphasizing teaching for understanding via learning trajectories and technology. A total of 42 schools serving low-resource communities were randomly selected and randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups using a randomized block design involving 1,375 preschoolers in 106 classrooms. Teachers implemented the intervention with adequate fidelity. Pre- to posttest scores revealed that the children in the Building Blocks group learned more mathematics than the children in the control group (effect size, g = 0.72). Specific components of a measure of the quantity and quality of classroom mathematics environments and teaching partially mediated the treatment effect.