bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV viraemia during pregnancy in women receiving preconception antiretroviral therapy in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Ntlantsana Vuyokazi , Hift Richard J. , Mphatswe Wendy P.
Published: April 2019

Background: Preconception antiretroviral therapy (PCART) followed by sustained viral suppression is effective in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The rates of persistent and transient viraemia in such patients have not been prospectively assessed in South Africa.Objectives: We determined the prevalence of transient and persistent viraemia in HIV-positive women entering antenatal care on PCART and studied variables associated with viraemia.Methods: We performed a prospective cross-sectional observational study of HIV-positive pregnant women presenting to a primary healthcare facility in KwaZulu-Natal. All had received at least 6 months of first-line PCART. Viral load (VL) was measured, patients were interviewed, adherence estimated using a visual analogue scale and adherence counselling provided. Viral load was repeated after 4 weeks where baseline VL exceeded 50 copies/mL.Results: We enrolled 82 participants. Of them, 59 (72%) pregnancies were unplanned. Fifteen participants (18.3%) were viraemic at presentation with VL > 50 copies/mL. Of these, seven (8.5%) had viral suppression (VL < 50 copies/mL), and eight remained viraemic at the second visit. Adherence correlated significantly with viraemia at baseline. Level of knowledge correlated with adherence but not with lack of viral suppression at baseline. Socio-economic indicators did not correlate with viraemia. No instances of vertical transmission were observed at birth.Conclusions: Approximately 20% of women receiving PCART may demonstrate viraemia. Half of these may be transient. Poor adherence is associated with viraemia, and efforts to encourage and monitor adherence are essential. The rate of unplanned pregnancies is high, and antiretroviral therapy programmes should focus on family planning needs of women in the reproductive age group to prevent viral non-suppression prior to pregnancy.Keywords: Preconception Antiretroviral Therapy; HIV; Viraemia; Antenatal Care; Adherence.
Multimodel simulation of vertical gas transfer in a temperate lake
Authors: Guseva Sofya , Bleninger Tobias , Jöhnk Klaus , Arcie Polli Bruna , Tan Zeli , Thiery Wim , Zhuang Qianlai , Rusak James Anthony , Yao Huaxia , Lorke Andreas , Stepanenko Victor
Published: April 2019

Abstract. In recent decades, several lake models of varying complexity have been developed and incorporated in numerical weather prediction systems and climate models. To foster enhanced forecasting ability and verification, improvement of these lake models remains essential. This especially applies to the limited simulation capabilities of biogeochemical processes in lakes and greenhouse gas exchanges with the atmosphere. Here we present multi-model simulations of physical variables and dissolved gas dynamics in a temperate lake (Harp Lake, Canada). The five models (ALBM, FLake, LAKE, LAKEoneD, MTCR-1) considered within this most recent round of the Lake Model Intercomparison Project (LakeMIP) all captured the seasonal temperature variability well. In contrast, none of the models is able to reproduce the exact dates of ice-cover and ice-off, leading to considerable errors in the simulation of eddy diffusivity around those dates. We then conducted an additional modeling experiment with a diffusing passive tracer to isolate the effect of the eddy diffusivity on gas concentration. Remarkably, sophisticated k − ϵ models do not demonstrate a significant difference in the vertical diffusion of a passive tracer compared to models with much simpler turbulence closures. All models simulate less intensive spring overturn compared to autumn. Reduced mixing in the models consequently leads to the accumulation of the passive tracer distribution in the water column. The lake models with a comprehensive biogeochemical module, such as ALBM and LAKE, predict dissolved oxygen dynamics adequate to the observed data. However, for the surface carbon dioxide concentration the correlation between modeled (ALBM, LAKE) and observed data is weak (∼ 0.3). Overall our results indicate the need to improve the representation of physical and biogeochemical processes in lake models, thereby contributing to enhanced weather prediction and climate projection capabilities.
Nível de intensidade nas aulas de educação física do ensino fundamental
Authors: Vian Fernando , Pedretti Augusto , Mello Júlio Brugnara , Silva Naildo Santos , Da Silva Luciano Panosso , Araujo Gaya Adroaldo Cezar
Published: April 2019

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os níveis de intensidade das aulas de Educação Física de escolares do ensino fundamental. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória com abordagem quantitativa e corte transversal. A escola foi selecionada por conveniência. Foram avaliadas 11 aulas, de uma turma do oitavo ano. As variáveis do estudo foram: as atividades em que os escolares estavam envolvidos, frequência cardíaca, velocidade e a distância percorrida. Para o tratamento dos dados foram utilizadas técnicas descritivas. Apenas 31 minutos foram aproveitados do período total da aula, os alunos permaneceram 19 minutos em intensidade muito baixa e baixa. Sendo assim, as evidências indicam que as aulas são pouco aproveitadas e os esforços físicos realizados com intensidade alta caracterizaram-se como de curta duração.
Os grupos de dança popular de Olinda e Recife: limites e fronteiras no século XXI
Authors: Marques  da Silva Ana Carolina , De Faria Gehres Adriana
Published: April 2019

O estudo objetivou compreender os sentidos e significados de atuação dos Grupos de Dança Popular situados em Recife e Olinda e caracteriza-se por uma abordagem qualitativa do tipo fenomenológico a partir de uma análise de conteúdo, através de entrevistas semiestruturadas presenciais com os responsáveis pelos grupos. Os resultados apontaram para várias camadas de atuação dos grupos. A transmissão da cultura local foi o sentido mais atribuído pelos grupos quando se prontificam a divulgar e preservar a dança popular. A fronteira entre a atuação como motor/indutor/produtor da cultura popular reverbera e retorna como grupo cênico e teatral. O trânsito instalado propõe zonas de ebulição que ora multiplica, ora subtrai sua potência como ética, estética, arte e política.
Gestão comportamental na profissão de secretariado executivo: um estudo na Universidade Federal da Paraíba, campi I e IV
Authors: Pereira Marailza Da Silva , Vieira Maciel Saulo Emmanuel , Clericuzi Adriana Zenaide , Gonçalves de Deus Kátia Regina
Published: April 2019

Este trabalho tem como finalidade investigar se a gestão comportamental é um fator importante na atuação do profissional de secretariado executivo. Diante das mudanças que vêm ocorrendo ao longo dos anos para o profissional de secretariado e das novas atribuições agregadas, torna-se necessário o conhecimento em relação ao comportamento das pessoas em seu ambiente de trabalho. Especialmente, objetivam-se: detectar quais as posturas do secretário executivo em relação aos tipos comportamentais com os quais este se relaciona; compreender a importância da gestão comportamental para o profissional de secretariado executivo da Universidade Federal da Paraíba; e verificar se a gestão comportamental influencia nas atividades exercidas pelo profissional de secretariado. Os procedimentos metodológicos utilizados neste estudo foram de caráter bibliográfico, quantitativo, descritivo, de campo e estudo de caso. Para a coleta de dados, foram aplicados questionários. A pesquisa realizada na Universidade Federal da Paraíba, campi I e IV, permitiu ter acesso à visão dos profissionais em relação ao tema abordado. Os resultados da pesquisa demonstram a percepção dos profissionais a respeito da vivência em seu cotidiano com os colegas de trabalho no que se refere a comportamento. Houve concordância em considerar a gestão do comportamento um fator importante para atuação do profissional nos dias atuais.
O secretário executivo atuando como assessor parlamentar
Authors: Ribeiro Joyce Félix , Santiago Cibelle Da Silva
Published: April 2019

Este trabalho tem como objetivo geral apresentar as atividades desempenhadas pelos assessores parlamentares que atuam no Vale do Mamanguape, Paraíba. Pretendem-se investigar se há estudantes ou egressos do curso de Secretariado Executivo atuando na assessoria parlamentar e verificar as atividades técnicas de secretariado que são desempenhadas pelos assessores parlamentares. Para a construção do referencial teórico, esta pesquisa fundamentou-se nas abordagens teóricas de Nonato Júnior (2009) e Oliveira (2011) referentes à assessoria e de Maia (2015) referentes às técnicas secretariais. Os procedimentos metodológicos foram embasados na pesquisa bibliográfica e exploratória, sob a abordagem qualitativa. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um questionário aplicado aos assessores parlamentares da região do Vale do Mamanguape que atuam na gestão municipal, tendo ou não formação em secretariado, a fim de investigar as atividades cotidianas desses profissionais. Os resultados da pesquisa apontam as principais atividades desenvolvidas diariamente que incluem atividades secretariais. Constatou-se a importância do profissional de secretariado na administração pública, devido ao conhecimento adquirido para o fazer técnico secretarial, além de apresentar o perfil necessário para ocupar o cargo de assessor parlamentar.
The Dogs of the Dow Theory – Is It Valid?
Authors: Kim Doh-Khul
Published: April 2019

The Dogs of the Dow theory has been a popular tool in the financial market. But while the theory is simple, there have been mixed findings on its validity. Using U.S. data from 2000 through 2017, this paper identifies how consistently an investment strategy that follows the Dogs of the Dow theory outperforms the average market. The results show that the theory has not worked well in the recent U.S. market when trading costs and taxes are included. Rather, holding an equally weighted investment of all firms is more likely to outperform the Dow Jones Industrial Average index and the Dogs of the Dow strategy in the long term.
College ESL Learners’ Politeness in Using Linguistic Taboos and Euphemisms: Looking Through the Socio-Pragmatic Lens
Authors: Bulusan Ferdinand
Published: April 2019

Many researches have delved into politeness theory, but few have studied how politeness theory operates within the context of college ESL learners through the use of linguistic taboos and euphemisms. This paper determines the extent of students’ use of and their perceptions about linguistic taboos and euphemisms. It has made use of the sequential-explanatory design. Participants were 313 college ESL learners in a premier state university. Data were gathered by using a questionnaire, focus-group discussion technique, and actual recorded conversations of the informants. In terms of politeness, ESL learners always strive to keep their “positive face” intact. Students perceive that taboo words are bad, masculine, and immoral. Moreover, this study posits that, sometimes, uttering linguistic taboos becomes a way by which people can establish closeness with others. Hence, taboo words may be uttered once in a while depending on the context and setting, such as when interlocutors are friends or have established a short social distance.
Politeness Strategies in Directive Speech Acts in Local Indonesian Parliament Assembly Proceedings
Authors: Maskuri Kuncoro Dibyo Sarjono , Tarjana Samiati , Djatmika Djatmika , Purnanto Dwi
Published: April 2019

This study reports on politeness in directive speech acts appearing within the proceedings of the local parliament for Sukoharjo, Indonesia. The aim is to explain the politeness strategies used to convey intended persuasive forces during parliamentary discourses. Drawing upon the pragmatic qualitative approach, this study examined 18 parliamentarians and data on their previous utterances’ form, function, meaning, and context in the proceedings. Using data collected through observation, records, and documentation, it looks at how the politicians acted. The results show that directive acts represent the main performance, with 154 tokens of illocution and 44 directive speech acts for politeness. Politeness strategies to perform directive speech acts are colored with on record, positive politeness, and aversion-to-acting negative politeness. The characters for positive politeness include inviting-gentle-direct, repressing-gentle-direct, suggesting-gentle-indirect, repressing-gentle-indirect, gentle-indirect, and respecting direct. This study implies pragmatic analysis in a different setting where an emphasized degree of formality is required. Suggestions are made to compare or contrast with utterances in less formal interactions, such as in the negotiations between a buyer and seller, and in religious circumstances like sermons in a mosque, church, or colloquial proceedings.
The Impact of Pragmatic Markers Acquisition and Phonological Awareness on Word Choice in Translating Literary Texts from Arabic into English
Authors: Alwafai Salwa
Published: April 2019

Pragmatic markers, either primary or secondary, contribute to the specificity of languages and are sensitive on being translated. This study traces the use of well, the commonest pragmatic marker in the English discourse, in a corpus of translated Arabic novels. The study, too, addresses the influence of the translators’ phonological awareness on their word choices, in the same corpus. Adjacent consonants, consonant-starting and quarter-syllabic words are studied in four groups: free writing of native authors as a control group (G1), literary translations by native English translators (G2), literary English translations by Arabic translators (G3) as well as literary English translations by joint effort (native-speaking and non-native-speaking translators) [G4]. The findings are statistically compared using one-way ANOVA test. Results show a statistically significant difference in the use of the pragmatic marker well and in the use of the three phonological patterns among the four groups. The findings are interpreted and implications are offered for the pragmatic gap and linguistic competence between native-speaking and non-native-speaking translators.
Samenwerking in de landbouw en de mededingingsregels
Authors: Litjens Maria , van Rijn Thomas
Published: April 2019

Samenwerking in de landbouw en de mededingingsregels

De Nederlandse regering wil de wetgeving aanpassen om samenwerking in de landbouw te stimuleren. De meest recente Europese PO-regels (2018) zouden de basis moeten zijn, maar deze regels zijn niet duidelijk en niet afgestemd op de uitspraak van het Hof van Justitie in de Franse witlofzaak (2017). In dit artikel werken we uit hoe de Europese benadering uitgelegd kan worden. Het Hof van Justitie spreekt over uitsluiting waardoor bij een PO het kartelverbod niet van toepassing is, terwijl de Europese wetgever alleen een afwijking aangeeft. Dit verschil in benadering en ook de complexe regelgeving maakt het invullen van de regels op nationaal niveau lastig maar niet ondoenlijk. De Nederlandse overheid moet aansturen op verheldering van de Europese PO-regels en kan tegelijkertijd naar het voorbeeld van de Duitse regelgeving haar nationale regels verbeteren.
Satisfaction of Basic Psychological Needs in Patients with Substance Use Disorder and Normal Persons: A Research Based on Self-Determination Theory
Authors: Shalchi Behzad , Parnian Khooy Maryam
Published: April 2019

Background: Motivation is an important factor in the substance use field. Self-determination theory is one of the theories that focuses specifically on the issue of motivation in substance use disorder and basic psychological needs issue. Objectives: The present study aims to evaluate the satisfaction of basic psychological needs in addict persons in comparison to normal persons. Methods: In this case-control study, 93 drug addicts and 91 normal people were selected through available sampling method by matching age, gender, educational level, and socioeconomic status, and evaluated using a basic psychological needs scale. Results: The results of multivariate analysis of variances showed a significant difference between two groups in the three basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relationship (P < 0.001). Also, drug abusers received far fewer scores in three basic psychological needs. Conclusions: The results of this study highlight the weakness in satisfying the basic psychological needs of drug addicts that play an important role in the majority of aspects of each person’s life. Considering this problem, constructive suggestions may be provided for prevention and interventions based on this theory in the field of addiction.
Revolutionary Traits in Wittgenstein and St. Paul
Authors: Rono Joseph ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: April 2019

Philosophy experienced a turning point at the time of Ludwig Wittgenstein. Likewise, religion (Judaism) encountered transformation during the time of the apostle Paul. Wittgenstein’s metaphor of the ‘River-bed’ that was later subsumed in the language-game theory is a concept that challenged the then status quo of philosophy known as rationalistic foundationalism. This philosophical predisposi­tion is analogous to the religious situation when Paul began his Christian ministry. Paul’s passionate emphasis on ‘justification by faith’ rather than legalistic or ritualistic observance of the law, was a shockwave to the Judaist religious establishment. Wittgenstein and Paul could as well be regarded as ‘radicals’ or rebels in their respective disciplines. Wittgenstein introduced a paradigm shift into philosophy while Paul did it in the Christian religion. Their unconventional outlooks were, however, met with a lot of resistance especially from the diehard philosophers and/or religionists of the day. This paper, therefore, is a comparative work on Wittgenstein (Philosophy) and Paul (Religion) in order to demonstrate sustained revolutionary tendencies toward human innovations and the need to strive for excellence.
Considering the Baptism of Edgardo Mortara in the Context of Catholic Teachings and Rituals Then and Now
Authors: Turner Paul
Published: April 2019

The baptism of one-year old Edgardo Mortara by a maid in his parental home in 1852 took place at an age when Catholics believed that salvation came only to those baptized, when the baptism of children was usually celebrated during a lengthy, complex ritual led by a priest at the parish church, yet when the church allowed and encouraged others - even laity - to perform baptism when, in their judgment, an emergency had arisen. Although the contemporary Catholic Church has modified these beliefs and practices, permissions and rules still govern the emergency baptism of children, even those of non-Christian parents.
Analysis of factors related systemic recurrence after breast conserving surgery in stage I breast cancer
Authors: Kim Yoon-Seok , Ryu Dong-Won , Lee Chung-Han
Published: April 2019

Objectives In these days, patients with stage I breast cancer have increased by regular health examination and diagnostic tool development. The aim of this retrospective study is to identify systemic recurrence related factors after breast conserving surgery (BCS) for stage I breast cancer. Methods In this study, we analyzed the correlation between systemic recurrence and pathologic factors. We reviewed 223 patients who underwent BCS for stage I breast cancer. Postoperative pathologic factors, recurrent rates and sites were studied. In addition, preoperative patients'data were also collected. Statistical analysis was done by using PASW 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results Systemic recurrence was found in 16 patients (7.17%) within 5 years after primary surgery. 5 patients had lymphatic invasion and 6 patients had vascular invasion. Lymphatic and vascular invasion had statistical correlation with systemic recurrence ( P = 0.004, P = 0.001). Conclusions In this retrospective study, we can conclude that vascular invasion and lymphatic invasion are related systemic recurrence after BCS for stage I patients. Further studies with large cohort will be required to fully understand the risk factors of systemic recurrence for stage I breast cancer patients.
Clinical features of Epstein-Barr Virus-associated Infectious Mononucleosis According to Age Group in Children
Authors: Lee Soram , Chung Ju-Young , Park Jung Je , Seo Ji-Hyun , Kim Jae Young , Yeom Jung Sook , Park Eun-Sil , Lim Jae-Young , Woo Hyang-Ok , Youn Hee-Shang
Published: April 2019

Objectives Few studies of pediatric Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated infectious mononucleosis (IM) have been conducted in Korea. We evaluated the clinical features of children with IM to define differences according to age. Methods We conducted retrospective chart reviews of 68 children aged 0 to 15 years who were diagnosed by EBV-associated IM with EBV-Viral Capsid Antigen(VCA) IgM at laboratory test and were admitted between 2010 and 2014. The children were classified into four age groups: aged 0–3, 4–6, 7–9, and 10–15 years. Results The age distribution of patients was as follows: 19 (27.9%) 0–3, 25 (36.8%) 4–6, 13 (19.1%) 7–9, and 11 (16.2%) 10–15. Fever was the most common presentation regardless of age. It was more common in the 0–3 group than the 4–6 group ( P = 0.018). Pharyngitis was more common in the 7–9 group than the 0–3 group ( P = 0.048), and myalgia was more common in the 10–15 group than the 0–3 group ( P = 0.007). Pharyngitis was accompanied by lymphadenopathy, protracted fever, and rash. In the 0–3 age group, the prevalence of rash was higher while the percentage of atypical lymphocytes was lower, but there was no statistical support for this tendency. There were no differences in the frequency of hepatosplenomegaly or laboratory findings between age groups. Conclusions IM is not uncommon in young children and its clinical presentation varies with age. Therefore, IM should be suspected in young febrile children with pharyngitis and rash despite low percentages of atypical lymphocytes.
A Case Of Cavernous Sinus Syndrome and Mutifocal Cerebral Infarction Related To Mucormycosis Of Sphenoid Sinus
Authors: Jeon Seok Won , Kim Chang Hoi , Kim Joo Yeon , Kwon Jae Hwan
Published: April 2019

A 54-year-old man, suffering from severe headache and ophthalmoplegia after undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery was referred to a tertiary hospital. Computed tomography (CT) revealed soft tissue density lesions in the left sphenoid sinus. The internal carotid artery was shown to be occluded in brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans without any other cerebral lesion. Endoscopic view of left nasal cavity shows whitish hyphae in the ethmoid and the sphenoid sinuses. We diagnosed him with cavernous sinus syndrome caused by mucormycosis and conducted endoscopic sinus surgery to remove remaining lesions and decompress orbit and optic nerves. After the revision surgery the patient's headache and ophthalmoplegia were improved. However, multifocal cerebral infarctions were newly discovered in a postoperative CT scan. We experienced a case of mucormycosis of sphenoid sinus resulting in occlusion of internal carotid artery and multifocal cerebral infarction, and report it with a brief review of these disease entities.
A switch in surface polymer biogenesis triggers growth-phase-dependent and antibiotic-induced bacteriolysis
Authors: Flores-Kim Josué , Dobihal Genevieve S , Fenton Andrew , Rudner David Z , Bernhardt Thomas G
Published: April 2019

Penicillin and related antibiotics disrupt cell wall synthesis to induce bacteriolysis. Lysis in response to these drugs requires the activity of cell wall hydrolases called autolysins, but how penicillins misactivate these deadly enzymes has long remained unclear. Here, we show that alterations in surface polymers called teichoic acids (TAs) play a key role in penicillin-induced lysis of the Gram-positive pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae (Sp). We find that during exponential growth, Sp cells primarily produce lipid-anchored TAs called lipoteichoic acids (LTAs) that bind and sequester the major autolysin LytA. However, penicillin-treatment or prolonged stationary phase growth triggers the degradation of a key LTA synthase, causing a switch to the production of wall-anchored TAs (WTAs). This change allows LytA to associate with and degrade its cell wall substrate, thus promoting osmotic lysis. Similar changes in surface polymer assembly may underlie the mechanism of antibiotic- and/or growth phase-induced lysis for other important Gram-positive pathogens.
Effect of Activity Coefficient of Polyvalent Ionic Salt Solution on Demulsification of Soy Lecithin Based Oil-in-Water Emulsion
Authors: Antony Pragasam , Bhat Shivanand S. , Tallur Preeti N. , Naik Vinayak M.
Published: April 2019

Lecithin based Oil-in-Water (O/W) emulsion finds a lot of applications in food and cosmetic industries. The stability of O/W emulsion depends on properties of the emulsifying solution and the ionic impurities present. The present experiment well explained the role of polyvalent Lewis acid salt solution in establishing the stability of emulsion. Lewis acid salts solutions of NaCl, KNO3 BaCl2 MgCl2, Al2(SO4)3 and FeCl3 were used in the preparation of lecithin based O/W emulsion. The ionic activity coefficient calculated from Debye-Hückel limiting law (DHLL) for Lewis metal ions Na+, K+, Ba2+, Mg2+, Al3+ and Fe3+ were found to be 0.955, 0.965,0.869,0.872, 0.737 and 0.737 which directly decrease the pH value of the ionic solutions to 6.9,7.0,7.14,7.04, 2.2 and 2.5 respectively. The conductance of ionic solution increases with decrease in ionic activity coefficient. These trends very strongly destabilize the lecithin O/W emulsion showing a significant order of breakup time of different emulsion systems as 3.5, 2.0,1.4,1.0, 0.5 and 0.25 minutes. The effect of ionic activity coefficient on emulsion destabilization was well projected by microscopic view. Measurement of droplet diameter was conspicuous for monovalent and divalent metal ions ranging from 14-156 micrometer and number of larger droplets increases with increasing in the valence. However, the higher valence Al3+ and Fe3+ ionic solutions totally break the emulsion with immediate separation of oil and water layer having lower activity coefficients. Thus, the increased valence and conductance, decreased ionic activity coefficient and pH value of the emulsifying solution destabilize the soy lecithin based O/W emulsion significantly by increasing the interfacial tension and retarding the binding ability of the emulsifier.
Meta-Heuristics Approach to Knapsack Problem in Memory Management
Authors: Oppong Emmanuel Ofori , Oppong Stephen Opoku , Asamoah Dominic , Abiew Nuku Atta Kordzo
Published: April 2019

The Knapsack Problems are among the simplest integer programs which are NP-hard. Problems in this class are typically concerned with selecting from a set of given items, each with a specified weight and value, a subset of items whose weight sum does not exceed a prescribed capacity and whose value is maximum. The classical 0-1 Knapsack Problem arises when there is one knapsack and one item of each type. This paper considers the application of classical 0-1 knapsack problem with a single constraint to computer memory management. The goal is to achieve higher efficiency with memory management in computer systems.

This study focuses on using simulated annealing and genetic algorithm for the solution of knapsack problems in optimizing computer memory. It is shown that Simulated Annealing performs better than the Genetic Algorithm for large number of processes.
Biophysical Effect of EMR with 5GHz on Male Reproductive System of Mus musclus Mice
Authors: Al-dulamey Q. Kh. , Ismail A. H. , Al-Jawwady Yasir A.
Published: April 2019

Aim: To study the effect of microwave radiation with power density 100,150 and 200 microwatt / cm2 (μW/cm2)   of exposure on male reproductive system of Mus musclus Swiss albino mice.

Study Design: Twenty mice were used in the experiment, they were divided randomly and assigned into 4 groups  of 5 animals each. White mice were used in this study Mus musculus Blub/c  which range between 2-3 months of age  and 23 -30 gm of weight . Healthy mice were obtained from the college of veterinary in Mosul University.

Place and Duration of Study: Mosul University, College of science, Biophysics department, IRAQ,  between January  2014 and April  2014.

Methodology: Mice were exposed to 100,150 and 200 μW/cm2 for 60 days. Then mice were divided into 4 groups each of group contain 5 animals. Group I: considered as control group were placed in cages without exposure. Group Π: Mice group were exposed with microwave 100 μW/cm2 for 60 days. Group Ш : Mice of this  group received 150/cm2 for 60 days. Group IV : Mice of this group received 200 μW/cm2 for 60 days. After exposure testis were obtain from each male group and experiment carried out on the sperm.

Results: The results in control group without exposure  the parameters as No  of  sperm cells  in epididymis, Percentage of living sperm cells, Percentage of dead sperm cells, Percentage of normal sperm cells and Percentage of abnormal sperm  cells  respectively  recorded with, 28.96 a ± 0.99, 87.81 a±0.82, 12.19 d±0.81, 86.66 a±0.83 and 13.44 d±0.73 respectively. The first group exposed to 100 µW/cm2 and the results of the same parameters with 15.60 b±0.49, 46.05 b±0.44, 53.96 c±0.43, 44.97 b±0.55 and 55.03 c±0.55 recpectively showed a significant decrease (p˂0.05) in   No.  of  sperm cells  in epididymis, Percentage of living sperm cells and Percentage of normal sperm cells respectively while  appeared  a significant increase(p˂0.05)  in Percentage of dead sperm cells and Percentage of abnormal sperm  cells. The second and third groups exposed to microwave radiation at 150 and 200 µW/cm2.  Also the results of same parameters recorded with 11.86 c±0.23, 35.90 c±0.69, 64.23 b±0.52, 34.93 c±0.72, 65.28 b±0.46, 6.88 d±0.26, 24.72 d±0.21, 75.28 a±0.21, 23.68 d±0.45 and 76.33 a±0.45 respectively.

Conclusion: The 5GHz of microwave radiation has harmful  effect of physiological and histopathological for reproductive system and avoid the exposure for long time about radiation from communication That have this same frequency as Wi –Fi or any communication from internet.
Impact of Forest Combustion on Soil Contamination by PAHs Using QuEChERS and GC-MS/MSTQD
Authors: Marzoq Hadi. Al Fahd, , Mohamed S. Al-Sewailem, , Mohamed Hamza EL-Saeid,
Published: April 2019

The present study was conducted in one of the most dense forest area of Asir region located in the southwest of Saudi Arabia to study the Impact of Forest Combustion on surface and subsurface soil contamination by Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs). The major toxic effects of PAHs including cancers, immunity suppression, loss of fertility, mutagenic and cardiovascular diseases. The extraction and analytical methods, have been developed and validated for quantification of trace levels of 17 PAHs namely, Naphthalene, Acenaphthylene, Acenaphthene, Fluorene, Phenanthrene, Anthracene, Fluoranthene, Pyrene, Retene, Benzo [b+j] fluoranthene, Benzo (a)pyrene, Benzo [k] fluoranthene, 3-methylchol-anthrene, Dibenz [a,h] acridine, Indeno [1,2,3-cd]pyrene, Dibenz [a,h] anthracene and Benzo [ghi] perylene. Surface and subsurface soil samples were collected from Alsaqa and Murir post-fire forests in Asir Province, Saudi Arabia, and extracted by Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) and analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Triple Quadrupole (GC-MS/MSTQD). The experimental results of 17 compounds of PAHs were highly satisfactory linearity, recovery and precision, especially with the tested soil samples. Recovery % ranged from 96.48±2.19 to 105.61±3.21%., the limit of detection (LOD) ranged from 3.71 to 6.77 µg kg-1. Meanwhile the limit of quantification (LOQ) for the analyzed PAHs were in the range of 10.47 to 16.42 µgkg-1. This method featured good sensitivity, lower quantification limits and the precision of the analyzed 17 PAHs.  The calibration curves were linear over wide concentration ranges with correlation coefficients (r2) 0.7478 to 0.9822 for 17 PAHs analyzed by GC-MS/MSTQD. The concentrations of the investigated PAHs in Alsaqa forest surface (S) and subsurface (SS) soils ranged from F24.81±4.29 to 57.28±3.56 and 24.10±2.31to 55.47±4.15 mg kg-1dry weight respectively. Meanwhile, the PAHs concertation in Murir surface and subsurface soils ranged from 12.48±2.37 to 28.83±3.35 and 12.83±1.37 to 25.59±4.31 mg kg-1 dry weight respectively. Retene compound was detected in Alsaqa, and Murir forest investigated surface, and subsurface soil sample ranged from 57.28, 55.47, and 28.83, 25.59 mg/kg-1(ppm) respectively. Meanwhile, Retene was not detected (ND) in the control surface and subsurface soil sample. The detected PAHs by applying the modified QuEChERS and GC-MS/MSTQD method were applied successfully for the extraction and determination of the 17 PAHs in burned forest soil samples.
Path Connectedness over Soft Rough Topological Space
Authors: Fu Li , Shi XiaoAn
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we mainly discuss the path connectedness of the soft rough topological space. We study the properties of connected soft rough real space, give the denition of path between soft points, and discuss the property of path connectedness in the soft rough topological space, and the relation between connected soft rough topological space and path local connected soft rough topological space.
Abilities of Tectona grandis and Celtis zenkeri (Hardwood) Sawdust as Substrates of Pleurotus Species and Their Indigenous Fungi
Authors: Olatunji I. S. , Sobowale A. A. , Adenipekun C. O.
Published: April 2019

Mushroom cultivation has continued to receive growing attention because of its nutritional and medicinal values. However, this study examined the effect of hardwood sawdust on the growth of Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus pulmonarius were investigated. Relationship between fungal incidence of the substrates (sawdust) and that of the mushroom were examined. Both Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus pulmonarius were inoculated on fermented and unfermented sawdust of Tectonal grandis and Celtis zenkeri. The fruiting bodies of the mushrooms were harvested and the growth parameters and biological efficiency was recorded. The isolated resident fungi were identified after obtaining pure cultures. The collected data were subjected to analysis (ANOVA) using Generalized Linear Model Procedure (GLM) of Statistical Analysis software (SAS). Means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at p ≤ 0.05.

Some of the growth parameters of P. ostreatus were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) better than that of P. pulmonarius. Tectona grandis and Celtis zenkeri sawdust had significant (p ≤ 0.05) impact on different growth parameters of the two mushrooms. Fermentation or non-fermentation of the substrates (sawdust) had no significant (p ≤ 0.05) impact on growth parameters of the mushrooms. Growth parameters of the two mushrooms were significantly better in 0% additive (p ≤ 0.05) than in the other additive concentrations. Five fungi were identified as indigenous fungi of the unfermented sawdust which did not significantly differ from those of the fermented sawdust and mushrooms. Nutritional composition of the mushrooms that grew on fermented and unfermented sawdust were good and comparable. The mushrooms were rich in protein, fibre, ash, moisture, fat and carbohydrate. Cultivation of mushrooms on hardwood sawdust is thus an effective means of managing such waste.
Effects of Communication Information Technology Threat on Traditional Newspaper Industry in Zimbabwe with a Particular Reference to Zimpaper Group
Authors: Ngendakumana Leonidas , Mutimudye Kennedy
Published: April 2019

The study sought to examine the effects of information communication technology threat on the newspaper industry in Zimbabwe in a bid to determine how ICT can be adapted for use in the newspaper industry. The research used a case study of the Zimpaper goup where a sample size of 100 respondents were selected using a purposive sampling technique. The study used a combination of three instruments i.e. questionnaire guides, interviews and other records to reduce the disadvantage of using a single method. The study showed that the organisation had a healthy mix of young and old employees who were highly literate. This mix of young and aged workers was likely to be a perfect blend of experience and agility to adoption of ICTs. This implied that the organisation had the inherent potential to adopt ICT in its overall strategy based on the general understanding that a young workforce was likely to adopt ICT more easily compared to an aged workforce. On the hand, the aged workforce would provide useful insights into the existing newspaper products thereby complementing each other. Findings also revealed that while ICT caused serious threats to the traditional newspaper industry it had also the potential to create new business opportunities for the same industry. The study highlighted that the email was the oldest and yet the most prevalent form of communication in the organisation. This implied that the organisation had not yet adopted more robust and yet cost effective forms of communication like Facebook, Twitter, Skype, instant messaging platforms and video conferencing. The study recommended that the organisation should develop a clear change management and communication strategy to articulate its business direction and explain the importance of adopting ICT. This should be followed by extensive training of strategic personnel in ICT skills.
A Review of Anti – Diarrheal Activity of Aegle marmelos
Authors: Rakulini R. , Kalaichelvi S.
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was review the anti – diarrheal activity of Aegle marmelos.  Siddha literatures were obtained from the library of Unit of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna. Data was collected from books and internet and tabulated for the analysis. Beal Fruit Tree (Aegle marmelos) (Tamil name Vilvam, Kuvilam, Sinhala name Belli), belongs to the family of Rutaceae. It is the most valuable medicinal plant in Siddha system of Medicine due to its various medicinal properties. It is a small or medium sized deciduous tree. It has alternate leave arrangement, Its flowers are greenish white, Fruit globose, grey or yellowish colour, Seeds Numerous. Found all over the Sri Lanka. Fruit (both unripe & ripe), root – bark, leaves, rind of the ripe fruit & flowers are used in drug preparations. Un-ripe fruit is astringent, digestive & stomachic & a little constipative. According to Siddha, Aegle marmelos has bitter, astringent taste, hot potency, pungent bio availability and reduce Vatha, Pitha and Kapha dosha. Diarrhoeal diseases are amongst the most common infectious diseases worldwide resulting in 3.2% of all deaths killing about 1.8 million people globally each year. It is quite evident from this review that Aegle marmelos is an important medicinal herb and extensively used in Ayurveda, Siddha, unani and traditional medicine. Historically, Aegle marmelos has been used for the number of ethonobotanical purposes. The collected information suggests that Aegle marmelos has anti-diarrheal activity.
Combinatorial Mutation Analysis of ω‐Transaminase to Create an Engineered Variant Capable of Asymmetric Amination of Isobutyrophenone
Authors: Kim Hong‐Gon , Han Sang‐Woo , Shin Jong‐Shik
Published: April 2019

ω‐Transaminase (ω‐TA) is an important enzyme for asymmetric synthesis of chiral amines. Rapid creation of a desirable ω‐TA variant, readily available for scalable process operation, is demanded and has attracted intense research efforts. In this study, we aimed to develop a quantitative mutational analysis (i. e., R‐analysis) that enables prediction of combinatorial mutation outcomes and thereby provides reliable guidance of enzyme engineering through combination of already characterized mutations. To this end, we determined three mutatable active‐site residues of ω‐TA from Ochrobactrum anthropi (i. e., leucine 57, tryptophan 58 and valine 154) by examining activities of nine alanine‐scanning mutants for seven substrate pairs. The R‐analysis of the mutatable residues is based on assessment of changes in relative activities for a series of structurally analogous substrates. Using three sets of substrates (five α‐keto acids, six arylalkylamines and three arylalkyl ketones), we found that combination of two point mutations display additive effects of each mutational outcome such as steric relaxation for bulky substrates or catalytic enhancement for amination of ketones. Consistent with the R‐analysis‐based prediction, the ω‐TA variant harboring triple alanine mutations, i. e. L57A, W58A and V154A, showed high activity improvements for bulky substrates, e. g. a 3.2×104‐fold activity increase for 1‐phenylbutylamine. The triple mutant even enabled asymmetric amination of isobutyrophenone, carrying a branched‐chain alkyl substituent to be accepted in a small binding pocket that normally shows a steric limit up to an ethyl group, with >99% ee of a resulting (S)‐amine.

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Highly Efficient and Stable Solar Cells with Hybrid of Nanostructures and Bulk Heterojunction Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Ram Kiran Sreedhar , Singh Jai
Published: April 2019

The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of a hybrid bulk hetero‐junction organic solar cell with an active layer of a blend of PBDT TS1 (donor) and PCBM (acceptor) incorporated with copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) quantum dots (QDs) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires is simulated. It is found that the incorporation of CZTS‐QDs of a single radius (1.5 nm) enhances the PCE from 9.1% to 12.34% and of 13 different radii CZTS‐QDs elevates PCE to 14.96%. This enhancement occurs mainly due to the enhancement in absorption that enhances short‐circuit current density (Jsc) and fill factor (FF). Finally, a layer of ZnO nanowires is added on top of the glass to reduce the reflection losses and absorption of ultraviolet light in the active layer that causes degradation and reduces the stability of organic solar cells (OSCs). The hybrid structure, thus simulated, has an enhanced PCE of 16.32% and is expected to be relatively more stable. It is expected that the results of this simulation may inspire all researchers interested in the fabrication of highly efficient hybrid OSCs.
Suboptimal response rates to hypomethylating agent therapy in chronic myelomonocytic leukemia; a single institutional study of 121 patients
Authors: Coston Tucker , Pophali Prateek , Vallapureddy Rangit , Lasho Terra L. , Finke Christy M. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Carr Ryan , Binder Moritz , Mangaonkar Abhishek A. , Gangat Naseema , Al‐Kali Aref , Litzow Mark , Zblewski Darci , Pardanani Animesh , Tefferi Ayalew , Patnaik Mrinal M.
Published: April 2019

Hypomethylating agents (HMA) are currently the only FDA approved therapy for patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). In the current retrospective study, we assessed response rates as adjudicated by the IWG (International Working Group) MDS (myelodysplastic syndrome) and MDS/MPN myeloproliferative neoplasm overlap syndrome response criteria, in 121 CMML patients treated with Azacitidine (AZA, n = 56) and Decitabine (DAC, n = 65). The overall response rates were 41% by the IWG MDS (AZA‐ 45%, DAC‐39%), and 56% by the IWG MDS/MPN (AZA‐56%, DAC‐58%) response criteria, with CR (complete remission) rates of <20% for both agents, by both criteria. There were no significant differences in response rates between proliferative and dysplastic CMML. Moreover, 29% of CMML patients in a CR with HMA progressed to AML (blast transformation), underscoring the limited impact of these agents on disease biology. Progression after HMA response was associated with a median overall‐survival (OS) of 8 months, while median OS in patients with primary HMA failure was 4 months. Lower serum LDH levels (<250 Units/L) were associated with HMA responses by both criteria; while ASXL1 and TET2 mutational status had no impact. HMA treated patients had a longer median OS (31 vs 18 months; P = .01), in comparison to those treated with conventional care regimens (excluding observation only patients), without any differences between AZA vs DAC (P = .37). In conclusion, this study highlights the inadequacies of HMA therapy in CMML, retrospectively validates the IWG MDS/MPN response criteria and underscores the need for newer, rationally derived therapies.
Step‐Growth Copolymerization Between an Immobilized Monomer and a Mobile Monomer in Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Anan Shizuka , Mochizuki Yumi , Kokado Kenta , Sada Kazuki
Published: April 2019

The A–A/B–B step‐growth copolymerization between a monomer immobilized in the crystalline state and a monomer mobile in the solution state is demonstrated. One of the two monomers was immobilized as organic ligands of the metal–organic framework (MOF) and polymerized with the mobile guest monomer, resulting in the formation of linear polymers. The polymerization behavior was completely different from that of the solution polymerizations. In particular, the degrees of polymerization (DP) converged to a specific value depending on the MOF structures. The inevitable termination is caused not by imperfectness of the polymerization reaction, but by the selection of the two polymerization partners among the several adjacent immobilized monomers. This is fully supported by the Monte Carlo simulation on the basis of the polymerization mechanism. Precise immobilization of monomers in the supramolecular assemblies is a promising way for the controlled A–A/B–B step‐growth polymerization.
Molecular‐Dynamics‐Simulation‐Directed Rational Design of Nanoreceptors with Targeted Affinity
Authors: Sun Xiaohuan , Riccardi Laura , De Biasi Federico , Rastrelli Federico , De Vivo Marco , Mancin Fabrizio
Published: April 2019

Here, we demonstrate the possibility of rationally designing nanoparticle receptors with targeted affinity and selectivity for specific small molecules. We used atomistic molecular‐dynamics (MD) simulations to gradually mutate and optimize the chemical structure of the molecules forming the coating monolayer of gold nanoparticles (1.7 nm gold‐core size). The MD‐directed design resulted in nanoreceptors with a 10‐fold improvement in affinity for the target analyte (salicylate) and a 100‐fold decrease of the detection limit by NMR‐chemosensing from the millimolar to the micromolar range. We could define the exact binding mode, which features prolonged contacts and deep penetration of the guest into the monolayer, as well as a distinct shape of the effective binding pockets characterized by exposed interacting points.
Activation of Prodrugs by NIR‐Triggered Release of Exogenous Enzymes for Locoregional Chemo‐photothermal Therapy
Authors: Cheng Li , Zhang Fengrong , Wang Shunhao , Pan Xueting , Han Sichong , Liu Shuang , Ma Junjie , Wang Hongyu , Shen Heyun , Liu Huiyu , Yuan Qipeng
Published: April 2019

Enzymes have been used to direct the conversion of prodrugs in cancer therapy. However, non‐specific distribution of endogenous enzymes seriously hinders their bioapplications. Herein, we developed a near‐infrared‐triggered locoregional chemo‐photothermal therapy based on the exogenous enzyme delivery and remolded tumor mivroenvironment. The catalytic efficiency of enzymes was enhanced by the hyperthermia, and the therapeutic efficacy of photothermal therapy (PTT) was improved owing to the inhibition of heat shock protein 90 by chemotherapeutics. The locoregional chemo‐phototherapy achieved a one‐time successful cure in 4T1 tumor‐bearing mice model. Thus, a mutually reinforcing feedback loop between PTT and chemotherapy can be initiated by the irradiation, which holds a promising future in cancer therapy.