bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct, ECOC, ND and END Frameworks—Which One Is the Best? An Empirical Study of Sentinel-2A MSIL1C Image Classification for Arid-Land Vegetation Mapping in the Ili River Delta, Kazakhstan
Authors: Samat Alim , Yokoya Naoto , Du Peijun , Liu Sicong , Ma Long , Ge Yongxiao , Issanova Gulnura , Saparov Abdula , Abuduwaili Jilili , Lin Cong
Published: August 2019

To facilitate the advances in Sentinel-2A products for land cover from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and Landsat imagery, Sentinel-2A MultiSpectral Instrument Level-1C (MSIL1C) images are investigated for large-scale vegetation mapping in an arid land environment that is located in the Ili River delta, Kazakhstan. For accurate classification purposes, multi-resolution segmentation (MRS) based extended object-guided morphological profiles (EOMPs) are proposed and then compared with conventional morphological profiles (MPs), MPs with partial reconstruction (MPPR), object-guided MPs (OMPs), OMPs with mean values (OMPsM), and object-oriented (OO)-based image classification techniques. Popular classifiers, such as C4.5, an extremely randomized decision tree (ERDT), random forest (RaF), rotation forest (RoF), classification via random forest regression (CVRFR), ExtraTrees, and radial basis function (RBF) kernel-based support vector machines (SVMs) are adopted to answer the question of whether nested dichotomies (ND) and ensembles of ND (END) are truly superior to direct and error-correcting output code (ECOC) multiclass classification frameworks. Finally, based on the results, the following conclusions are drawn: 1) the superior performance of OO-based techniques over MPs, MPPR, OMPs, and OMPsM is clear for Sentinel-2A MSIL1C image classification, while the best results are achieved by the proposed EOMPs; 2) the superior performance of ND, ND with class balancing (NDCB), ND with data balancing (NDDB), ND with random-pair selection (NDRPS), and ND with further centroid (NDFC) over direct and ECOC frameworks is not confirmed, especially in the cases of using weak classifiers for low-dimensional datasets; 3) from computationally efficient, high accuracy, redundant to data dimensionality and easy of implementations points of view, END, ENDCB, ENDDB, and ENDRPS are alternative choices to direct and ECOC frameworks; 4) surprisingly, because in the ensemble learning (EL) theorem, “weaker” classifiers (ERDT here) always have a better chance of reaching the trade-off between diversity and accuracy than “stronger” classifies (RaF, ExtraTrees, and SVM here), END with ERDT (END-ERDT) achieves the best performance with less than a 0.5% difference in the overall accuracy (OA) values, but is 100 to 10000 times faster than END with RaF and ExtraTrees, and ECOC with SVM while using different datasets with various dimensions; and, 5) Sentinel-2A MSIL1C is better choice than the land cover products from MODIS and Landsat imagery for vegetation species mapping in an arid land environment, where the vegetation species are critically important, but sparsely distributed.
A Novel Hyperspectral Image Classification Pattern Using Random Patches Convolution and Local Covariance
Authors: Sun Yangjie , Fu Zhongliang , Fan Liang
Published: August 2019

Today, more and more deep learning frameworks are being applied to hyperspectral image classification tasks and have achieved great results. However, such approaches are still hampered by long training times. Traditional spectral–spatial hyperspectral image classification only utilizes spectral features at the pixel level, without considering the correlation between local spectral signatures. Our article has tested a novel hyperspectral image classification pattern, using random-patches convolution and local covariance (RPCC). The RPCC is an effective two-branch method that, on the one hand, obtains a specified number of convolution kernels from the image space through a random strategy and, on the other hand, constructs a covariance matrix between different spectral bands by clustering local neighboring pixels. In our method, the spatial features come from multi-scale and multi-level convolutional layers. The spectral features represent the correlations between different bands. We use the support vector machine as well as spectral and spatial fusion matrices to obtain classification results. Through experiments, RPCC is tested with five excellent methods on three public data-sets. Quantitative and qualitative evaluation indicators indicate that the accuracy of our RPCC method can match or exceed the current state-of-the-art methods.
Towards an Underground Utilities 3D Data Model for Land Administration
Authors: Yan Jingya , Jaw Siow , Soon Kean , Wieser Andreas , Schrotter Gerhard
Published: August 2019

With the pressure of the increasing density of urban areas, some public infrastructures are moving to the underground to free up space above, such as utility lines, rail lines and roads. In the big data era, the three-dimensional (3D) data can be beneficial to understand the complex urban area. Comparing to spatial data and information of the above ground, we lack the precise and detailed information about underground infrastructures, such as the spatial information of underground infrastructure, the ownership of underground objects and the interdependence of infrastructures in the above and below ground. How can we map reliable 3D underground utility networks and use them in the land administration? First, to explain the importance of this work and find a possible solution, this paper observes the current issues of the existing underground utility database in Singapore. A framework for utility data governance is proposed to manage the work process from the underground utility data capture to data usage. This is the backbone to support the coordination of different roles in the utility data governance and usage. Then, an initial design of the 3D underground utility data model is introduced to describe the 3D geometric and spatial information about underground utility data and connect it to the cadastral parcel for land administration. In the case study, the newly collected data from mobile Ground Penetrating Radar is integrated with the existing utility data for 3D modelling. It is expected to explore the integration of new collected 3D data, the existing 2D data and cadastral information for land administration of underground utilities.
Assessing the Impact of Nightlight Gradients on Street Robbery and Burglary in Cincinnati of Ohio State, USA
Authors: Zhou Hanlin , Liu Lin , Lan Minxuan , Yang Bo , Wang Zengli
Published: August 2019

Previous research has recognized the importance of edges to crime. Various scholars have explored how one specific type of edges such as physical edges or social edges affect crime, but rarely investigated the importance of the composite edge effect. To address this gap, this study introduces nightlight data from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite sensor on the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership Satellite (NPP-VIIRS) to measure composite edges. This study defines edges as nightlight gradients—the maximum change of nightlight from a pixel to its neighbors. Using nightlight gradients and other control variables at the tract level, this study applies negative binomial regression models to investigate the effects of edges on the street robbery rate and the burglary rate in Cincinnati. The Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) of models show that nightlight gradients improve the fitness of models of street robbery and burglary. Also, nightlight gradients make a positive impact on the street robbery rate whilst a negative impact on the burglary rate, both of which are statistically significant under the alpha level of 0.05. The different impacts on these two types of crimes may be explained by the nature of crimes and the in-situ characteristics, including nightlight.
Using Saildrones to Validate Satellite-Derived Sea Surface Salinity and Sea Surface Temperature along the California/Baja Coast
Authors: Vazquez-Cuervo Jorge , Gomez-Valdes Jose , Bouali Marouan , Miranda Luis , Van der Stocken Tom , Tang Wenqing , Gentemann Chelle
Published: August 2019

Traditional ways of validating satellite-derived sea surface temperature (SST) and sea surface salinity (SSS) products by comparing with buoy measurements, do not allow for evaluating the impact of mesoscale-to-submesoscale variability. We present the validation of remotely sensed SST and SSS data against the unmanned surface vehicle (USV)—called Saildrone—measurements from the 60 day 2018 Baja California campaign. More specifically, biases and root mean square differences (RMSDs) were calculated between USV-derived SST and SSS values, and six satellite-derived SST (MUR, OSTIA, CMC, K10, REMSS, and DMI) and three SSS (JPLSMAP, RSS40, RSS70) products. Biases between the USV SST and OSTIA/CMC/DMI were approximately zero, while MUR showed a bias of 0.3 °C. The OSTIA showed the smallest RMSD of 0.39 °C, while DMI had the largest RMSD of 0.5 °C. An RMSD of 0.4 °C between Saildrone SST and the satellite-derived products could be explained by the diurnal and sub-daily variability in USV SST, which currently cannot be resolved by remote sensing measurements. SSS showed fresh biases of 0.1 PSU for JPLSMAP and 0.2 PSU and 0.3 PSU for RMSS40 and RSS70 respectively. SST and SSS showed peaks in coherence at 100 km, most likely associated with the variability of the California Current System.
Concept and Evaluation of a Method for the Integration of Human Factors into Human-Oriented Work Design in Cyber-Physical Production Systems
Authors: Stern Hendrik , Becker Till
Published: August 2019

Due to the shift from mainly manual labor to an increased portion of cognitive tasks in manufacturing caused by the introduction of cyber-physical systems, there is a need for an updated collection of adequate design principles for user interfaces between humans and machines. Thus, we developed a method for the determination and evaluation of such design principles. It is based on human factors methods and facilitates the assessment of specific work design elements which are supposed to have a significant effect on work performance and the perception of work in cyber-physical production systems (CPPS). Within the application of the developed method, we derived an overview of key design elements in CPPS, developed an experimental platform, and conducted two empirical studies with a total of n = 68 participants. This way, three design elements were investigated, and the findings transferred into preliminary design principles. We can state that the method can be used both for a better understanding of the mechanisms between human factors and work in CPPS. Besides, it helps to provide a catalogue of design principles applicable to SMEs to promote more efficient and successful integration of workers into CPPS.
Support or Risk? Software Project Risk Assessment Model Based on Rough Set Theory and Backpropagation Neural Network
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Jiang Qingquan , Hsu Maxwell K. , Chen Qinglan
Published: August 2019

Software supports continuous economic growth but has risks of uncertainty. In order to improve the risk-assessing accuracy of software project development, this paper proposes an assessment model based on the combination of backpropagation neural network (BPNN) and rough set theory (RST). First, a risk list with 35 risk factors were grouped into six risk categories via the brainstorming method and the original sample data set was constructed according to the initial risk list. Subsequently, an attribute reduction algorithm of the rough set was used to eliminate the redundancy attributes from the original sample dataset. The input factors of the software project risk assessment model could be reduced from thirty-five to twelve by the attribute reduction. Finally, the refined sample data subset was used to train the BPNN and the test sample data subset was used to verify the trained BPNN. The test results showed that the proposed joint model could achieve a better assessment than the model based only on the BPNN.
Toward the Integration of SDGs in Higher Planning Education: Insights from Integrated Urbanism Study Program in Belgrade
Authors: Maruna Marija
Published: August 2019

With the adoption of the UN Agenda 2030, UNESCO has put forward new recommendations to integrate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the teaching process. In particular, SDG 11—“Sustainable cities and communities”—is aimed at education in the field of urban planning. In parallel with this, the Guidelines of the European Council of Spatial Planners ECTP-CEU have set out the skills needed for the planning profession. The goal of this paper was to verify the compatibility of the curricula of the master’s study program in Integrated Urbanism at the Faculty of Architecture, University of Belgrade, with the recommendations of the UN, UNESCO, and ECTP-CEU. A qualitative analysis of the structure and content of the course curricula was applied on three levels; curricula were compared to: (a) the expected skills in the planning profession, (b) the SDG 11 targets defined in UN Agenda 2030, and (c) the learning objectives, as formulated by UNESCO. The research results highlight several key aspects to improve the curricula, and include the concept of sustainability: (a) the structure of the course curricula, (b) interdisciplinarity, (c) partnerships with institutions and communities, (d) links with scientific research work, (e) practice orientation, (f) improving teachers’ competence levels, and (g) improving the accreditation process. These results can be used as guidelines to improve the curricula of the Integrated Urbanism study program in the next accreditation cycle, and also as a methodological approach to verify the compatibility and dimensions of higher planning education (HPE) in relation to the expected skills and global requirements of education for sustainable development (ESD).
Comparative Analysis of Multi-Criteria Methods for the Enhancement of Historical Buildings
Authors: Nesticò Antonio , Somma Piera
Published: August 2019

The protection of cultural heritage is essential to preserve the memory of the territory and its communities, but its enhancement is also important. In this perspective, the theme of choosing the best use for historic buildings, which often make up a substantial and widespread part of real estate and which can become a driving force for the sustainable development of cities, is important. These decision-making processes find effective support tools in Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methods, able to consider the multiple financial, social, cultural, and environmental effects that the enhancement project generates. In order to identify the most appropriate evaluation approach to select the best use of the building, this paper proposes a comparison between some of the best-known MCDM methods: Analitic Hierarchy Process (AHP), ELimination Et Choix Traduisant la REalité (ELECTRE), Tecnique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), and the Compromise Ranking Method (VIKOR). The comparative analysis gives rise to the validity of the AHP, which is useful for reducing the problem into its essential components, so as to make a rational comparison among the design alternatives based on different criteria. The novelty of the research is the characterization of the hierarchical structure of the model, as well as the selection of criteria and indicators of economic evaluation. The application of the model to a real case of recovery and enhancement of a former convent in the province of Salerno (Italy) verifies the effectiveness of the tool and its adaptability to the specificities of the case study.
Enhancing Apparel Store Patronage through Retailers’ Attributes and Sustainability. A Generational Approach
Authors: Dabija Dan-Cristian , Băbuț Raluca
Published: August 2019

While research on retailers’ attributes that influence store patronage is relatively plentiful, the influence on store patronage of consumers’ perceptions towards retailers’ sustainable behaviour is a new topic. The authors examine the influence of retailers’ sustainable behaviour and store attributes (assortment, price, personnel, advertising and convenience) on the patronage behaviour of generations X and Y (Millennials). Data were collected via a survey of 278 Xers and 402 Millennials in an emerging market. Results show that Generation X apparel store patronage is positively influenced by advertising and store personnel, whereas Millennials’ are influenced by assortment, personnel and advertising and to a weaker extent by retailers’ sustainable behaviour. The paper enlarges the understanding of generational theory in an emerging market, while from a managerial perspective the results are particularly useful for apparel retailers with regards to marketing strategies which need to be implemented in order to attract and retain Generation X and Y consumers.
Improving Construction Productivity by Integrating the Lean Concept and the Clancey Heuristic Model
Authors: Besklubova Svetlana , Zhang Xueqing
Published: August 2019

The profitability of most construction projects critically depends on construction productivity, which can lead to project cost overruns and schedule delays if not fully addressed. Although a literature review provides numerous worldwide examples of construction productivity improvement by mitigating and eliminating influencing disruptions through lean tool implementation, those studies considered a limited number of productivity disruptions in which the choice of lean tools was not clearly justified. This gap has significantly hampered the required improvements in construction productivity due to the limitations in selecting optimal solutions to fully overcome relevant disruptions and prevent their consequences. Hence, as a response to the aforementioned shortcomings, the present study develops the lean-Clancy-based decision-making matrix (LCDMM) that combines two different methods—the “Clancey heuristic model” and “lean construction”—with the goal of determining optimal and beneficial solutions to eliminate disruptions. The main thrust towards the adaptation of the matrix is based on its potential to link disruptions with solutions based on lean tools. In order to assess the practicality of LCDMM, the proposed solutions for two disruptions, as examples, are compared to existing practical solutions. Ultimately, it is clear that LCDMM, as a reusable tool, can assist scholars and practitioners in assembling the analysis of disruption waste and in selecting solutions for productivity improvement.
Carbon Emissions Peak Prediction and the Reduction Pathway in Buildings during Operation in Jilin Province Based on LEAP
Authors: Duan Haiyan , Zhang Shipei , Duan Siying , Zhang Weicheng , Duan Zhiyuan , Wang Shuo , Song Junnian , Wang Xian’en
Published: August 2019

The building sector has gradually become a major contributor of carbon emissions in recent years. Its carbon emissions, which result from the long heating period and considerable consumption of coal in residential buildings during operation, must be reduced. To this end, the long-range energy alternatives planning system was adopted for the forecasting of carbon emissions in baseline scenarios, energy-saving, energy-saving–low-carbon, and low-carbon. On the basis of these predictions, the contributions of heating, cooling, cooking, illumination, washing, and other activities to carbon emissions were analyzed. The influencing factors in the reduction of carbon emissions from residential buildings in a cold region were identified. The results showed that energy-saving–low-carbon was the optimal scenario to reduce carbon emissions. Meanwhile, carbon emissions will peak in 2030, with a value of 42.06 Mt under the same scenario. As the top three influencing factors, heating, cooling, and cooking contribute 55.74%, 18.86%, and 17.29% of carbon emissions, respectively. Sensitivity results showed the differential effects of 32 factors on the reduction of carbon emissions in residential buildings. Carbon emissions could be reduced by 17.41%, 35.51%, 31.10%, and 14.10% by controlling the building scale, heating, cooling, and cooking, respectively. To this end, seven factors, including the rationing of central heating, were identified. Then, pathways to reducing carbon emissions were proposed under different scenarios. The present research fills the gap between reality and the predicted pathway, considering the heterogeneity of the climate.
Accurate Detection Method of Aviation Bearing Based on Local Characteristics
Authors: Xue Ping , Jiang Yali , Wang Hongmin , He Hai
Published: August 2019

Aviation bearing assembled detection is the final barrier to quality and safety. Therefore, an accurate detection method of aviation bearing that is based on local characteristics is designed to solve the detection problem of mis-assembly and miss-assembly of balls in aviation bearing assembled. When considering the spatial limitation of aviation bearing assembled image acquisition, the dynamic distribution of balls and the interference of lubricating grease on the surface, a dynamic local ball segmentation model that is based on U-Net network with symmetrical structure is designed to achieve the accurate segmentation of the local ball region of aviation bearing. Subsequently, an incomplete circle fitting algorithm is designed based on the segmented local ball image and Hough transform principle. These two algorithms make the measurement error of aviation bearing ball size less than 100 μm. Using bearings validates the algorithm. The results show that the accuracy of dynamic local ball segmentation model that is based on U-Net network with symmetrical structure is over 99%. At the same time, on the basis of accurate segmentation in aviation bearing local ball, the designed Hough circle algorithm is used for circle detection. The experimental results show that the false detection rate of mis-assembly and miss-assembly of balls is less than 3%. Further, the goal of zero-missed detection of mis-assembly and miss-assembly of balls in aviation bearing is achieved. The accurate segmentation of aviation bearing local ball and the effective identification of mis-assembly and miss-assembly of balls are realized. This method can provide a theory for the improvement of mis-assembly and miss-assembly of balls detection in aviation bearing. Furthermore, it has high application value.
Biotransformation of the Mycotoxin Zearalenone to its Metabolites Hydrolyzed Zearalenone (HZEN) and Decarboxylated Hydrolyzed Zearalenone (DHZEN) Diminishes its Estrogenicity In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Fruhauf Sebastian , Novak Barbara , Nagl Veronika , Hackl Matthias , Hartinger Doris , Rainer Valentina , Labudová Silvia , Adam Gerhard , Aleschko Markus , Moll Wulf-Dieter , Thamhesl Michaela , Grenier Bertrand
Published: August 2019

Zearalenone (ZEN)-degrading enzymes are a promising strategy to counteract the negative effects of this mycotoxin in livestock. The reaction products of such enzymes need to be thoroughly characterized before technological application as a feed additive can be envisaged. Here, we evaluated the estrogenic activity of the metabolites hydrolyzed zearalenone (HZEN) and decarboxylated hydrolyzed zearalenone (DHZEN) formed by hydrolysis of ZEN by the zearalenone-lactonase Zhd101p. ZEN, HZEN, and DHZEN were tested in two in vitro models, the MCF-7 cell proliferation assay (0.01–500 nM) and an estrogen-sensitive yeast bioassay (1–10,000 nM). In addition, we compared the impact of dietary ZEN (4.58 mg/kg) and equimolar dietary concentrations of HZEN and DHZEN on reproductive tract morphology as well as uterine mRNA and microRNA expression in female piglets (n = 6, four weeks exposure). While ZEN increased cell proliferation and reporter gene transcription, neither HZEN nor DHZEN elicited an estrogenic response, suggesting that these metabolites are at least 50–10,000 times less estrogenic than ZEN in vitro. In piglets, HZEN and DHZEN did not increase vulva size or uterus weight. Moreover, RNA transcripts altered upon ZEN treatment (EBAG9, miR-135a-5p, miR-187-3p and miR-204-5p) were unaffected by HZEN and DHZEN. Our study shows that both metabolites exhibit markedly reduced estrogenicity in vitro and in vivo, and thus provides an important basis for further evaluation of ZEN-degrading enzymes.
Is There a Pattern for Occurrence of Macrophytes in Polish Ponds?
Authors: Świerk Dariusz , Krzyżaniak Michał
Published: August 2019

Although ponds are common elements in the environment, dependences occurring in these ecosystems have not been fully investigated. Our study focuses on the correlation between environmental factors and changes occurring in ponds—mostly the distribution of macrophytes in space and time. The aim of our analyses was to indicate which physicochemical variables were characteristic of ponds in specific habitats (forest, agriculture field, and village) and whether they could associate the distribution of vegetation in these ponds. Thirteen ponds differing in morphometric parameters and location in landscape (ponds located in agriculture fields, forests, and villages) were analyzed. Our research was based on data covering a period of 10 years (2008–2018). The following parameters were analyzed: the water content of NH4+, NO3−, NO2−, TP, PO43−, Na, K, Mg, Ca, and Fe, pH, temperature and morphometric parameters. Macrophytes were observed during the growing season in July 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2018. Three homogeneous species groups were distinguished in statistical analyses and the dominance of selective environmental factors was assigned to them. The first group consisted of indicator species for forest ponds. Their waters were characterized by a low content of Ca, Mg, and Na as well as an increased content of NH4+ and Fe. The second group was composed of indicator species for field ponds, where the highest NO3− concentrations were found. The third group was formed by indicator species for village ponds. Water of these ponds was characterized by higher concentration levels of K, Na, and total P.
Changes in Fish Taxonomy Affect Freshwater Biogeographical Regionalisations: Insights from Greece
Authors: Vavalidis Theocharis , Zogaris Stamatis , Economou Alcibiades N. , Kallimanis Athanasios S. , Bobori Dimitra C.
Published: August 2019

Freshwater fishes are key indicators for delineating biogeographical maps worldwide. However, controversy in regional-scale ichthyogeographic boundaries still persists, especially in areas of high species endemicity, such as in Greece. One problem concerns the taxonomy of the fishes because there have been extensive changes, mainly due to an increased splitting of species in recent years in Europe. Here, we explore why ichthyogeographic boundary disagreements and uncertainties in region-scale biogeographical units persist. We compare cluster analyses of river basin fish fauna in Greece using two taxonomic datasets: the older fish taxonomy (from 1991) and the current taxonomy that now follows the phylogenetic species concept (PSC), which has become widely established in Europe after 2007. Cluster analyses using the older fish taxonomy depicts only two major biogeographical regional divisions, while the current taxonomy defines four major regional divisions in mainland Greece. Interestingly, some older maps from the pre-PSC taxonomy era also similarly show four ichthyogeographic divisions in Greece and we can assume that the older biogeographical work did not solely use numerical taxonomy but followed an expert-guided synthesis; the older regional definitions have persisted quite well despite radical changes in Europe’s fish taxonomy. Through the prism of biodiversity conservation planning, we hope this review may help identify ways to help standardize policy-relevant biogeographical mapping.
Remplacement partiel du sélénium par le soufre dans la penroséite (Ni, Co, Cu) (Se, S)2 de Shinkolobwe (Zaïre)
Authors: Deliens Michel
Published: August 2019

La penroséite riche en soufre de Shinkolobwe (Zaïre) est isotype de la pyrite. Les cristaux microscopiques (maximum 2/10 de mm) sont associés à la sélénio˗siegenite et à la molybdénite, constituant des amas au sein d'une dolomie grise. En section polie, la penroséite gris clair et la sélénio˗siegenite blanc crème constituent des aggrégats compacts. La penroséite riche en soufre est isotrope. Les pouvoirs réflecteurs sont respectivement : 42,9 % (589 nm) et 43,1 % (656 nm) dans l'air et 26,9 % (589 nm), 28,0 % (656 nm) sous immersion d'huile. La microdureté Vickers est de 437 kg/mm² (P = 100 g). Les raies principales du diagramme de poudre sont : 2,946 Å (65), 2,634 Å (100) 2,405 Å (90) et 1,776 Å (80). a₀ = 5,891 Å. Analyse chimique à la microsonde électronique : Ni = 26,22 %, Co = 2,63 %, Cu = 1,23 % ; Se = 65,63 %, S = 5,82 %, total : 101,53 %. La formule déduite est : (Ni, Co, Cu) (Se, S)₂ avec Se/S = 4,55.
Les composés NaRu2O4 et NaFeRuO4. Structure cristalline de NaFeRuO4
Authors: Darriet Jacques , Vidal Alain
Published: August 2019

NaRu₂O₄ and NaFeRuO₄ crystallize in the orthorhombic system with the CaFe₂O₄ type (NaRu₂O₄ : a = 9.265 Å, b = 2.821 Å, c = 11.159 Å ; NaFeRuO₄ : a = 9.218 Å, b = 2.956 Å, c = 10.848 Å). Single crystal X-ray structure determination on NaFeRuO₄ shows that iron and ruthenium atoms are randomly distributed between both independent crystallographic sites. Least squares refinement techniques brought the conventional agreement factor R down to 0.074.
Etude de la dilatation thermique entre 77 K et 298 K du chlorate de sodium et du bromate de sodium
Authors: Nasr-Eddine M. , Sayetat F. , Vargas H.
Published: August 2019

NaClO₃ et NaBrO₃ ont été étudiés par diffraction de rayons X entre 77 K et 298 K. Aucune distorsion du réseau n'a été détectée à basse température. Les courbes de dilatation thermique montrent que les coefficients de dilatation à l'ambiante sont très différents.
Influence of lower leg myofascial kinematic chains on flat feet development of children 7-14 years old
Authors: Danyschuk A.
Published: August 2019

The aim of the work is to study the biomechanical properties of the myo-fascial kinematic chain "foot-shin" of children of 7-14 years old with non-fixed and clinically expressed flat-footedness.

Material and methods. The study involved 14 children with flat-footedness of grades I-II and 6 children with flat-foot deformity of the foot and 20 children who only had functional disorders of the foot. An anthropometric study of the foot was carried out, electrophysiological indicators of the muscles of the leg were determined, and plantograms were analyzed.

Results. The study found a correlation between the indicators of the anatomical and functional state of the foot and the imbalance of the frequency-amplitude indices of the ipsi and contralateral muscles within one link of the myofacial kinematic chain, may be important as one of the factors that contribute to the development of flatfoot. This is confirmed by other indicators and indicate a decrease in the height of the longitudinal arch, a decrease in the metatarsal and heel angles of the arch of the foot. Such changes have a pronounced relationship with age. The results of the work indicate that a possible cause of flattening of the vaulted apparatus of the foot is not only the weakness of its joint-ligament-muscular system, but also above the located kinematic segment - the tibia. The correlation analysis revealed the relationship between the indicators of the development of the anatomical and biomechanical components of the foot and the characteristics of the electromyographic indicators of the muscles of the leg in children 7-14 years old. As a result of a comprehensive study, it was found that during this period of ontogenesis in the formation of flatfoot such electromyographic indicators as frequency-amplitude characteristics of action potentials of motor units of the long and posterior tibial muscles, as well as their tone imbalance, take on major importance.

Conclutions. Experimental studies have established that the registered changes in the articular components of the foot of children 7-14 years old lead to a change in the electromyographic parameters of the muscles of the leg, which are involved in the formation of the initial sections of myo-fascial kinematic chains.
Red blood cells state and calcium content of in the blood plasma during physical activity in marathon runners of various qualifications
Authors: Olefirenko I.О. , Popel’ S.L.
Published: August 2019

The aim of the work is to investigate the morpho-functional state of peripheral blood erythrocytes and the content of Ca2+ in the blood plasma during physical exercise in marathoners of different qualifications.
Material and methods. The studies were conducted in three groups of marathoners aged 20–25 years old with conditionally high, medium and low performance. Exercise was performed for 90 minutes on a bicycle ergometer with a given power. The study of peripheral blood erythrocytes was performed before and after exercise. The osmotic resistance of erythrocytes, the content of Ca2+ and free fatty acids in the blood were determined. Morphological study of erythrocytes was performed using a scanning electron microscope and stained by standard techniques. The red blood cell form index was determined by a special formula. Changing the content of Ca2+ enhances lipid melting, increases membrane fluidity and increases surface tension, with the result that the discocytes are stretched and thinned, the central pits deepen and the surface roughness increases, the volume and number of conical pores, and peripheral blood erythrocytes density.
Results. Marathon runners of different groups after physical exercise differed in terms of the frequency of cardiac sweeps, the content of free fatty acids and the osmotic resistance of red blood cells. This is closely correlated with changes in the electrolyte and metric composition of erythrocytes and the presence of their reversible and irreversible forms in the general circulation after exercise.
Conclutions. Physical activity causes structural and functional reorganization of erythrocytes, which is based on a change in their microelement composition, a decrease in osmotic resistance, mainly in poorly trained marathoners, and the appearance of various forms of erythrocytes against the background of the destruction of degenerative forms and an increase in the active release of young forms, which is a sign of high adaptive capacity in highly skilled athletes.
Determining the style of conducting a fight of qualified boxers based on neurodynamic indicators using multivariate analysis methods
Authors: Safronov D.V. , Kozin V.Yu. , Kozina Zh.L. , Basenko A.V. , Riabenkov I.O , Khrapov S.B.
Published: August 2019

Purpose: to justify the use of psychophysiological indicators to determine the style of conducting a fight in boxing.
Material and methods. The study involved 27 qualified boxers of the middle weight category of 22-25 years. Athletes were tested on psychophysiological indicators. Initially, the determination of the psychophysiological capabilities of athletes was carried out. Then, using a cluster analysis of psychophysiological indicators, the athletes were divided into groups and the features of the styles of conducting a duel between the athletes of each group were analyzed using an expert assessment of their technical and tactical actions. Next, a distinction was made between the psychophysiological indicators of the athletes of the formed groups, i.e. different fighting styles.
Results. Cluster analysis of indicators of psychophysiological testing showed the presence of 3 groups of athletes. An expert evaluation of the boxing match styles included in each group showed that the first group included boxers of the counterattack style, “Sluggers”, the second group included athletes of the attacking style, “Swarmers (in-fighter, crowder)”, the third group included athletes of the counterattack and defensive styles, “The out-boxers (out-fighter, boxers)". Boxers - “Sluggers” have higher mobility of nervous processes in comparison with representatives of other styles. Boxers - “pace” are distinguished by significantly higher neurodynamic endurance. “Attackers” - “Swarmer (in-fighter, crowder) ” are distinguished by a higher strength of the nervous system, determined by the number of errors in the test for the speed of a complex reaction in the feedback mode.
Conclusions. Psychophysiological and neurodynamic indicators are informative for determining the inclinations of boxers to a particular style of conducting a duel. This provision can be applied at all stages of training athletes to quickly and effectively determine propensities for a particular style of conducting a duel based on innate neurodynamic and psychophysiological characteristics.
MOLECULAR DETECTION OF VIRUS HERPES SIMPLEX TYPE 1(HSV-1) , VIRUS HERPES SIMPLEX TYPE 2(HSV-2), CYTOMEGALOVIRUS(HCMV) and EPSTEIN-BARRVIRUS (EBV) IN SUPRA-GI
Authors: Ivanovska- Stojanoska Marija , Popovska Mirjana , Anastasovska Violeta , Zendeli Bedjeti Lindita , Todorovska Sashka
Published: August 2019

Introduction Chronic periodontitis is as an inflammatory disease of the supporting tissue of the teeth caused by periopatogens microorganisams. New concept about etiology of periodontal disease suggests that herpes viruses may play an important role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. The aim of this study was to analyze the presence of herpes simplex virus type 1and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2) cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), in supra-gingival dental plaque .Materials and Methods The study comprised a total of 89 patients who were divided in two groups: patients who were diagnosed moderate stage of periodontal disease and patients who were diagnosed with advanced stage of periodontal disease. Clinical examinations included determination of plaque index, gingival index, sulcus bleeding index, probing depth, and clinical attachment level. Supra-gingival dental plaque samples were taken with sterile coton ball scrub on tooth enamel. Molecular detection of HSV1, HSV2 , EBV and CMV was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).Results Molecular analysis of HSV-1 ,HSV-2, EBV and CMV in supra-gingival dental plaque in patients with chronic periodontal disease (a total of 89) showed the presence of EBV in 12,40% of patients , HSV-1 was found in 11,20% of patients, in 7,90% of patients was detected HSV-2, CMV was established in 9,00% of patients. In 3,40% patients in supra-gingival dental plaque was detected combination of viruses HSV1 and CMV, in 3,40% of patient combination of HSV1 and EBV ; and in 2,20% of patient combination ofHSV2,EBV was observed; in 2,20% of patients was found combination of 3 viruses HSV1; HSV2; EBV and in 49,50% patients we found negative finding. Patients with moderate stage of periodontal disease have a 0,78 times(OR = 0,78 / 0,33-1,84/)no significantly lower risk of probability of finding viruses in the supra-gingival plaque compared to patients who had advanced stage of periodontal disease. In the shown cross-culture of the presence of viruses in supra-gingival plaque in patients with moderate and advanced stage of periodontal disease for Fisher, s Exact Test = 5,19 and p >0.05 (p = 0.809 / Monte Carlo sig. (0.799-0.819)there is no significant difference.Conclusion We can associate the presence of herpes simplex viruses in supra-gingival dental plaque with periodontal disease. Our findings suggest that there is no significant difference in presence of viruses in supra-gingival plaque in patients with moderate and sereve stage of periodontal disease.
PREPARATION OF CHITOSAN- SULFATHIAZOLE FILMS WITH POTENTIAL BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS
Authors: Zvezdova Dilyana , Georgieva Snezhina
Published: August 2019

A series of novel chitosan-zeolite-sulfathiazole nanocomposite (CSFZ) films were prepared by using solvent casting method for wound healing application. The physicochemical properties namely thickness, folding endurance, water absorption capacity, and water vapour transmission rate (WVTR) of the films were studied. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed to ascertain the interaction between negatively charged zeolite and positively charged chitosan. The surface morphology of the prepared composite films was also studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Due to strong hydrophilic nature of zeolite, it great lyenhances the water absorption capacities of the prepared nanocomposite films. In addition, the presence of zeolite in the said films also increases the mechanical strength. The above analysis suggested that the CSFZ films could be used as potential candidates for wound healing application.
HELIOTHERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS
Authors: Georgieva Snezhina , Zvezdova Dilyana
Published: August 2019

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease associated with psoriasis vulgaris, with routinely negative rheumatoid factors and the absence of rheumatoid nodules. This is an immune-mediated disease, according to generally accepted definition of Wright and Moll from 1973. American Association against Rheumatism classified psoriatic arthritis as an independent disease in 1964. Psoriatic arthritis is a single disease with a varied clinical picture. It belongs to the group of seronegative spondyloarthropathies with which there are general clinical features. It is believed that similar mechanisms determine the onset of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The clinical picture includes various clinical forms that damage the peripheral and sacroiliac joints, spine, internal organs. The treatment of psoriatic arthritis is directed simultaneously to the influence of skin and joint changes. Purpose: Our study aims to summarize our long-standing experience in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis with heliotherapy. Subject of observation: Monitoring includes 132 patients with moderate and severe form of psoriasis treated at the sanatorium in town of Pomorie for 5 years in the period 2001-2006. Results and discussion: 132 patients with psoriasis with no effect on the local therapy and have proven psoriatic arthritis were selected. In our climatic conditions, heliotherapy is appointed during the warm half-year. Sun treatment was conducted under the conditions of a healing beach, which had shielding, radiation-protective devices. In patients with erythema - pigment and pigment type skin reactivity begins with 1-2 bioadoses reached to 8-10 biodoses, carried out in the area of overcomfort. Conclusion: The studies demonstrated that heliotherapy combined with medications significantly improves the prognosis of patients with this disease. The ultimate success would mean overcoming the frequent depression conditions, better survival and social comfort for patients with psoriatic arthritis.
STUDY OF THE QUALITY OF LIFE WITH REGARD TO THE HEALTH OF PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC ISCHEMIC HEART DISEASE
Authors: Todorova Marieta
Published: August 2019

The study of the quality of life through the patient’s point of view provides important information about the reflection of the disease on his life and social adaptation. The objective of the development is to establish the influence of the chronic ischemic heart disease on the daily routine and the social life of the patients.Methods: The study is of cross-sectional type. It covers 146 patients with chronic ischemic heart disease. A questionnaire has been developed, which includes questions related to the demographic specification of the patients and their social life. Standardized questionnaire EQ-5D for self-assessment of the health-related quality of life has been applied.Results: A significant part of the patients have difficulties in carrying out professional activities or family duties. A low level of coping is found in 32 men (43.8%) and 29 women (39.7%). More than half of the persons aged over 60 have difficulties in the 5 studied areas of quality of life: mobility, self-care, regular activities, pain/discomfort, anxiety. Problems in the field of physical activity were found in 43 men (43.9%) and 55 women (56.1%). A dependency was found between the area of self-service and age (χ2=10.85, p=0.004).Conclusion: The questioned patients give lower assessments of the social life and coping with the daily routine. The screening of the health-related quality of life is important for improvement of the clinical practice and management of the disease. In the sphere of public health, the health-related quality of life data are applied for analysis of the impact of the socially significant diseases on different groups of population. Differentiation of the impacts of such diseases on the patients is the basis of creation of efficient interventions for prophylactics and rehabilitation. The medical specialists may use the results of measurement of quality of life in the clinical practice for improvement of the patients’ healthcare.
GPS' PERCEPTION OF THE PATIENT ORIENTED INTERVENTIONS AS KEY ELEMENTS OF PATIENT CENTRED CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH MULTIMORBIDITY.pdf
Authors: Assenova Radost , Kireva Levena , Foreva Gergana
Published: August 2019

Background: Patients with multimorbidity represent a significant portion of the primary healthcare population. For healthcare providers, managing patients with multiple chronic conditions represents a challenge given the complexity and the intensity of interventions. Integrated and patient-centered care is considered an effective response to the needs of people who suffer from multiple chronic conditions. According to the literature providing patient-centered care is one of the most important interventions in terms of positive health-related outcomes for patients with multimorbidity.Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the GPs’ perception of patient oriented interventions as key elements of patient centred care for patients with multimorbidity.Material and methods: A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted among randomly selected 73 GPs. A direct individual anonymous survey was performed to explore the opinion of respondents about the importance of two patient-oriented interventions, each one including specific elements of patient-centered care for patients with multimorbidity. The tool was developed as a result of the scoping review performed by Smith et al. (2012;2016). A 5-point Likert scale (0-not at all, 1-little, 2-rather, 3-much, 4-very strong) was used. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics. In processing the data, the software product for statistical analyses - SPSS version 17 was performed for Windows XP.Results: Our results show that both categories - providing patient-oriented approach and self-management support interventions were highly accessed by the respondents. The most frequent categories of interventions identified in our study were Creating individualized and adapted interventions, Performing regular contacts and Reinforcing adherence. Less frequently reported elements such as Considering relatives’ needs and Developing self-management plan are still underestimated by the Bulgarian GPs.Conclusions: The acceptance and understanding of innovative patient-centered interventions adapted to patients with multimorbidity could be accepted as a good indicator for improving health-related outcomes and care for patients with multiple chronic conditions.