bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of accessibility of medicines for type 2 diabetes monotherapy in ukraine
Authors: Germanyuk T. A. , Ivko T. I. , Bobruk V. P.
Published: October 2018

Diabetes mellitus is recognized as noninfectious epidemic in the world. Antidiabetic medications for the patients are taking continually and they are expensive. So, the actual question is the evaluation of the economic availability of antidiabetic treatment. Compared with other similar researches the economic availability of monotherapy of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Ukraine has not been investigated. It was researched in this study. The purpose of the research was scientific generalization of the results of study of the economic availability of monotherapy of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Ukraine from 2013 to 2016. The material of the study were: ATC/DDD-indexes of Centre WHO methodology of statistical studies of drugs, cost of DDDs was calculated according to weighed average cost in November 2013 and November 2016, according to weekly «Pharmacy» information. Methods: frequency analysis, ATC/DDD-methodology, the calculation of socio-economic coefficients of accessibility: liquidity ratio (Cliq), solvency adequacy ratio (Ca.s.), availability ratio (D). Based on the results of our previous studies to analyze the dynamics of socio-economic accessibility have been selected schemes of monotherapy with metformin, gliclazide and glimepiride, as the most commonly used in clinical practice. It has been found that the minimum price for DDD of metformin increased by 101%, for glimepiride – by 65%, for gliclazide – by 41% from 2013 to 2016. In the study of liquidity ratio Cliq, it has been found that there was an increase of price fluctuations from 48 to 295%. In the study of the solvency adequacy ratio Ca.s., it has been found that the accessibility has decreased from 98 to 197%, respectively. In studying of availability ratio D it has been found that the growth rate of salary was lower rates therapy price increases by 67% for metformin, by 44% for glimepiride, by 5% for gliclazide.In the study of economic availability it has been found an increase in prices in 1.4 times for metformin, in 1.25 times – for glimepiride, in 4.3 times – for gliclazide. Accessibility of monotherapy of type 2 diabetes mellitus has been decreased by 98–197%. The rate of wage growth was less than the growth rate of prices for the medications under investigation by 5–67%. The obtained results of a study of the socio-economic accessibility of medicines for type 2 diabetes monotherapy for the population of Ukraine Cliq, Ca.s., D against the background of reducing the rate of salary growth show a decrease in the dynamics of such availability in the period 2013–2016 years.
Synthesis and study of the properties of derivatives 4-phenyl-5-(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiols
Authors: Gotsulya A. S. , Verba D. P. , Panasenko O. I. , Knysh Ye. G.
Published: October 2018

The successful use of drugs, derivatives of 1,2,4-triazole, creates the conditionsfor the production and investigation of properties of new derivatives of this heterocyclic system.

The aim of this work was synthesis and study of physical and chemical properties of new derivatives of 1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol containing synthon of pyrrole.

The object of the study was a 4-phenyl-5-(pyrrol-2-yl)-1,2,4-triazole-3-ylthio-R-carbothioamides.

To achieve this goal it was necessary to solve following tasks: to conduct the selection of the optimum base structure to determine the most efficient way of chemical modification of the precursor of targeted synthesis, to carry out selection of necessary methods of synthesis, to investigate the physico-chemical properties and to set the structure of the obtained compounds.

The synthesis of target products of the reaction was carried out using as starting material pyrrole, which with using the form non-catalytic form of reaction of the Fridel-Crafts was transformed into 2,2,2-trichloro-1-(pyrrol-2-yl), ethanol. The resulting material in the result of reaction of hydrazinolysis was converted into the pyrrol-2-carbohydrazide. The obtained intermediate product was used in the reaction of nucleophilic joining of phenylisothiocyanate with subsequent intramolecular alkaline heterocyclization. Synthesized thiol was used in the reaction of alkylation.

The structure of the obtained substances are confirmed by using elemental analysis, 1H-NMR-spectroscopy, and their individuality – chromatographic methods of analysis. The resulting substances are an interesting object for further studies, especially biological activity.
Synthesis and anаlgеsic properties of (3-allyl-4-aryl-3H-thiazol-2-ylidene)-[4-(6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]azepin-3-yl)phenyl]amine derivatives
Authors: Demchenko S. A. , Yeromina H. O. , Perekhoda L. O. , Bukhtiarova T. A. , Bobkova L. S. , Demchenko A. M.
Published: October 2018

In recent years, attention to itself attracted by the problem of pain treatment, which is due to a noticeable increase in patients, especially the able-bodied age. The aim of the study was to synthesize substances with potentially analgesic properties in the series of hydrobromides (3-allyl-4-aryl-3H-thiazol-2-ylidene)-[4-(6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]azepin-3-yl)phenyl]amine and to study the effect of the synthesized compounds on the analgesic activity. The objects of the study were (3-allyl-4-aryl-3H-thiazol-2-ylidene)-[4-(6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]azepin-3-yl)phenyl]amine derivatives, which were synthesized by boiling a thiourea with the corresponding α-haloketones in ethanol medium. Data of NMR 1H spectroscopy were used. The primary evaluation of analgesic activity was carried out on models of thermal («Hot plate») and chemical («Acetic acid cramps») stimulation. A new series of (3-allyl-4-aryl-3H-thiazol-2-ylidene)-[4-(6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]azepin-3-yl)phenyl]amine derivatives were synthesized and their structure and purity were confirmed by NMR 1H spectroscopy. The analgesic activity of hydrobromide 3-allyl-4-phenyl-3H-thiazol-2-ylidene)-[4-(6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]azepin-3-yl)phenyl]amine were studied to identify the «structure‒activity» relationship taking into account earlier studies. Screening for analgesic activity for the hydrobromide 3-allyl-4-phenyl-3H-thiazol-2-ylidene)-[4-(6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]azepin-3-yl)phenyl]-amine were shown that the replacement of the ethyl radical by allyl in the third position of the thiazole ring leads to a decrease in analgesic activity. Moreover, the compound possesses a moderate analgesic effect compared to the reference drug ketorolac.
Mineral composition of rhizomes Potentilla erecta L.
Authors: Minarchenko V. M. , Kaplunenko V. G. , Glushchenko L. А. , Коvalska N. P. , Babenko L. М.
Published: October 2018

Chemical substances, which accumulate selectively by plants, can influence at their pharmacological action: to increase or decrease their absorption, resorptive properties; be synergists or antagonists, as well as to reduce or enhance the toxic effect. Potentilla erecta used in traditional herbal medicine system in many countries due to high therapeutic value. The concentrations of secondary metabolites in the plant raw materials are well understood. However, the data on concentration of trace and major elemental composition of it raw material remains extremely insufficient.

The aim of our study was to examine the elemental compound of P. erecta rhizomes. The object of study was the rhizomes of P. erecta from a various natural zones of Ukraine (Carpathians, Polesie). Raw material was analyzed by atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma.

Twenty nine elements were identified in studied samples.  It was established that the level of concentration decreases in this sequence: Ca > S > Mg > K > Sn > I > P > Ba > Al > Zn > Mn > Fe > Sr > Si > Ag > Cr > Ni > Cu > Pb > V > Se > Ti > Cd > Ge > Na > Mo > Co > As > Bi. Ca, S and Mg are present in high concentrations in both analyzed samples of P. erecta. K, Sn, I, P, Ba and Al were identified in quantities of more than 100 mg/kg. Other elements found in small quantities. The content of some metals was significantly different in the analyzed samples. The main reason is, probably, the difference between the ecological conditions of plants habitats. The experimental data can be used for prognosing and planning pharmacological research of P. erecta and development of quality control methods for plant material of this medicinal plant.
Basis of optimal concentration of active pharmaceutical ingredients in combdrugs for external use with antimycotic activity
Authors: Luc V. V. , Kolicheva Y. L. , Gladishev V. V. , Lisyanska A. P.
Published: October 2018

An analysis of the state of modern resources for pharmacotherapy of foot mycosis was carried out. It showed that the creation of semisolid dosage forms for the topical skin, foot web space and nail treatment with bioactive compound from the group of nonspecific antimycotic substances (2-mercaptobenztiazol, chinozol) on the base of domestic technology ia actual for the modern pharmaceutical and medical science. Successful realization this project will allow to propose the effective complaentic and available for the wide segment of the Ukrainian medications for the effective foot mycisis therapy to the domestic dermatology and will make a real alternative imported pharmacotherapeutical preparations.

The aim of this work is a scientifically basis of 2-mercaptobenztiazol and chinozol concentration in ointment’s compositions for the foot mycosis therapy.

Investigations of efficacy of model compositions on the sodium carboxymethylcellulose glycerogel base with combination of mebetizol and chinozol in concentration from 0 to 10% were carried out by the two-layer agar plate method against Candida albicans АТСС 885-653 according methematic model of two-factor experiment.

It was ascertained that combining 2-mercaptobenztiazol and chinozol in semisolid dosage forms for external use allows to predict the potentiation of their action in mycosis topical therapy. At the same time both active pharmaceutical ingredients concentration makes a sighnificant influence on the antimycotic activity of experimental compositions. It was ascertained that chinozol concentration makes the greatest influence on the antimycotic activity of ointment compositions. At the same time 2-mercaptobenztiazol concentration and active pharmaceutical ingredients joint use in dosage form also make a statistically significant influence on the antimycotic activity level of semisolid dosage forms. Variance analysis of investigation’s results showed that combining 10% 2-mercaptobenztiazol and 10% chinozol provides with optimal level of ointments specific activity. That fact allows to predict the advisability of making pastes on the base of these and active pharmaceutical ingredients combination in semisolid dosage forms for foot onychomycosis therapy.

Results of antimycotic activity of ointments containing combinations of lower concentration of studied nonspecific antimycotic substances allow to propose them for the therapy of foot and interdigital space mycotic affections.
Dynamics of prostate protectors assortment in the state formulary of medicines of 1-9 issues
Authors: Gadyak І. V. , Hromovyk B. P.
Published: October 2018

Prostatitis is one of the most frequent urology diseases of men of reproductive age. Recommendations for rational pharmacotherapy prostatitis are included into the State Formulary of Medicines, which is reviewed and updated annually. Thus, the aim of our work was to study the dynamics of the assortment of prostate protectors.The State Formulary of Medicines of 1–9 issues and the State Register of Medicines of Ukraine dated 01. 08. 2017 were the materials of the research. The methods of search, content analysis, statistics, comparison and generalization were applied.  It was established that the first, second and third issues of State Formulary of Medicines include three therapeutic and chemical subgroups of prostate protectors: alpha-adrenergic receptors antagonists (G04CA), testosterone-5-alpha reductase inhibitors (G04CB), other drugs used in benign prostatic hypertrophy (G04CX). And since the fourth issue – only the first two subgroups of prostate protectors were icnluded. Assortment prostate protectors was stabilized in State Formulary of Medicines of 8, 9 issues. Depth of assortment of the State Formulary of Medicines of the ninth issue is 55,8% in comparison with the State Register of Medicines of Ukraine along with 100% index for prostate protectors trade names based on alfuzosin, terazosin (G04CA – Аntagonists of alpha adrenergic receptors), finasteride and dutasteride (G04CB – Inhibitors of testosterone-5-alpha reductase), as well as the absence of drugs based on silodosin, dutasteride-tamsulosin, solifenacin-tamsulosin (G04CA – Antagonists of alpha-adrenergic receptors) and prostate protectors with G04CX – Other drugs used in benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Apresentação
Authors: Lage Allene
Published: October 2018

Apresentação
FILOSOFIA, POESIA E RESISTÊNCIA: SOBRE A UNIDADE ENTRE EPISTEMOLOGIA E MILITÂNCIA POLÍTICA EM TEMPOS DE CRISE
Authors: Neto Otacílio Gomes da Silva
Published: October 2018

A crise social vivenciada pelos brasileiros tem dado margem a medidas governamentais de caráter suspeito. Impulsionados por setores empresariais, midiáticos e do agronegócio, tais medidas também chamadas de “reformas”, têm sido apressadas por membros do poder legislativo em conluio com o executivo. Essa trama foi montada no auge da crise do governo da presidenta Dilma o que levou ao impeachment do seu mandato. Passados alguns fôlegos da usurpação do poder executivo, boa parte dos brasileiros começa a perceber que esse processo foi uma farsa montada pelas camadas privilegiadas com o apoio ideológico da grande mídia. Diante disso, a meta desse trabalho é o de elaborar uma reflexão crítica do cenário brasileiro endossando leituras alternativas àquela oferecida pela mídia oficial. Partiremos de uma problematização envolvendo o conceito de crise a partir de Bobbio (2004) e Santos (2007) para entender as razões da ofensiva das classes privilegiadas que comandam o país. Em seguida, a partir de Gramsci (2011) e Freire (2006), retomaremos o conceito de conscientização cujo sentido vislumbra o ato de conhecer como resistência à opressão via o engajamento político. Concluiremos o trabalho resgatando, a partir de Arendt (2002), a desgastada arte da política como instrumento de humanização e inclusão social.
O MODO DE PENSAR DA RAZÃO DUAL RACIAL: A BRANQUITUDE E O MESTIÇO-LACUNA
Authors: Cardoso Lourenço Da Conceição
Published: October 2018

O modo de pensar da razão dual racial produz a episteme sobre o negro como regra e epistemologia referente ao branco enquanto exceção. Essa racionalidade invisibiliza outras identidades que não se enquadram de maneira evidente na dualidade branco-negro. Quando problematizamos o mestiço, geralmente será o “mestiço-fruto” dessa forma de pensar, o mestiço-central, tornando outras possibilidadades de problematizações sobre a mestiçagem lacunas: mestiços-lacunas. Considero necessário criticar e caminhar além dessa racionalidade. Esta é uma primeira abordagem com esse propósito.
The Dire Consequences of Specializing on Large Herbivores
Authors: Neufeld Branden T.
Published: October 2018

Niche differentiation is a way in which similar species avoid competition. Some species do this by specializing in certain prey items. This review aims to determine why the dire wolf (Canis dirus) went extinct while its similar and less abundant relative, the grey wolf (Canis lupus) did not. Both species were present in North America during the Pleistocene, though only one went extinct during the Quaternary extinction event. Physiological differences existed between the two species, mostly due to a greater focus in hypercarnivory for dire wolves. Dire wolves had more robust frame and skull, greater bite strength, and larger carnasials and canines. These differences in dire wolf morphology all help it to handle and kill larger prey species, while the more lithe grey wolf is better adapted to switching to smaller alternative prey. Dire wolves at have been shown to consume mostly large herbivores while grey wolves can survive with lagomorphs as a primary food source. Larger carnivore body size means reduction in locomotor performance, which means that when many mega-herbivores went extinct at the end of the Pleistocene, dire wolves were not as well adapted to switch to smaller prey as grey wolves are. Their naturally larger body mass also means that they needed higher caloric input to maintain their body condition and fecundity. Overall, Canis dirus specialized in larger prey than Canis lupus, so when this prey became extinct, the dire wolf went extinct along with other hypercarnivores such as the North American lion, Smilodon, and short-faced bear.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Wellsch Jordan
Published: October 2018

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a debilitating and multifaceted mental illness comprised of both obsessive thoughts and subsequent compulsive actions. The purpose of this paper is to garner a better understanding of how cultural factors impact the presentation of OCD by exploring "naturally" occurring obsessions and rituals, cross-cultural comparisons of Canadian and Turkish OCD samples, as well as by exploring the "culture-bound" variants of OCD referred to as Koro and Anorexia Nervosa with excessive exercise. The findings question the validity of classifying illnesses as "culture-bound" and suggest that cultural factors may have a direct impact on the cognitive processes involved in the presentation of OCD. Future cross-cultural research is needed to better understand the personal narratives and cognitive processes of diverse OCD patients. An interdisciplinary approach which combines the efforts of psychology and anthropology may be well suited for such research.
Intracapsule arthroscopic assisted cranial cruciate ligament protesis in dogs in situ
Authors: Чернов Александр , Chernov Aleksandr , Еманов Андрей , Emanov Andrey
Published: October 2018

Until 2013 one of scientific directions of clinic of «Endovet™» (Russia, Kurgan) ― research and introduction in veterinary practice of arthroscopic reconstruction of cranial cruciate ligament in dogs. The specialists of clinic researching, implemented and patented methodology of arthroscopic autoimplantation, simultaneously with it began actively to use prothesis cranial cruciate ligament for dogs. In articles the results of the use of one of new variants of CCL prothesis are analysed for dogs.
MENDIALOGKAN LEGITIMASI NIKAH SIRRI DALAM RANAH TEOLOGIS DAN YURIDIS (Interpretasi Hadits Larangan Nikah Sirri Dalam Perspektif Antropologi)
Authors: Muna Moh. Nailul
Published: October 2018

Dalam memperbincangkan pernikahan, tidak bisa lepas dari dua ranah yang melikupinya yakni, keyakinan dan hukum. Permasalahan nikah sirri adalah permasalahan yang sampai saat ini masih menarik untuk diperbincangkan karena masih maraknya praktek ini. hadits yang merupakan sumber hukum Islam kedua telah melarang secara jelas praktek nikah yang tidak dihadiri oleh wali, meski al-Qur’an tidak menyinggung hal ini namun dalil-dalil yuridis telah menguatkan larangan nikah sirri karena akan mengakibatkan ketidak-jelasan hubungan suami istri, selain itu keengganan untuk mencatatkan pernikahan yang menjadi faktor utama pelarangan nikah sirri. Namun dalam perspektif antropologi, nikah sirri tidak selamanya dilarang dengan mempertimbangkan eksistensi hadits serta keadaan sosiologi yang ada. Tulisan ini bertujuan supaya memberikan new meanings dalam memahami nikah sirri dengan menggunakan perspektif antropologi.
PENGEMBANGAN KURIKULUM BERBASIS KEMAJEMUKAN
Authors: Zaman Kamilus
Published: October 2018

Guru agama seharusnya menjadikan peserta didik menjadi yang berperadaban, berbudaya, berakhlak, berkarakter, ala Indonesia. dengan menjunjung tinggi nilai-nilai al-qur’an, dan pancasila, menghargai kemajmukan, suku, agama ras, sesuai dengan ajaran Islam yang dibawa Oleh Nabi Muhammad SAW, yang membangun Kota Yastrib menjadi kota Madinah yang didalamnya juga bermajmuk. Sebagai upaya Pengembangan Kurikulum PAI Berbasis Kemajemukan , disini lembaga harus mencoba mengembangkan dan merekontruksi kembali kurikulum Pemerintah dari yang sentralisasi menjadi Desentralisasi, agar Tujuan Pendidikan Agama Islam di lembaga tersebut tercapai, Untuk merealisasikannya Maka:1). Pengembangan kurikulum PAI: pengembangan kurikulum Pendidikan Agama Islam (PAI) dapat berarti: (1) kegiatan menghasilkan kurikulum PAI; atau (2) proses yang mengaitkan satu komponen dengan yang lainnya untuk menghasilkan kurikulum PAI yang lebih baik; dan/atau (3) kegiatan penyusunan (desain), pelaksanaan, penilaian dan penyempur¬naan kurikulum PAI. 2). Langkah-Langkah dalam Pengembangan Kurikulum PAI Berbasis Kemajemukan, dari berbagai Aspek: (1) aspek Tujuan: Menjaga akidah dan ketakwaan peserta didik. 2) Menjadi landasan untuk lebih rajin mempelajari dan mendalami ilmu-ilmu agama. 3) Mendorong peserta didik untuk lebih kritis, kreatif dan inovatif. 4) Menjadi landasan perilaku dalam kehidupan sehari-hari didalam masyarakat. Dengan demikian bukan hanya mengajarkan pengetahuan secara teori semata tetapi juga untuk dipraktekkan atau diamalkan dalam kehidupan sehari-hari (membangun etika sosial). 5) Nasionalis 6) Membentuk Pribadi Muslim (2)  Aspek Materi: Memperluas/menambah indikator,  Muatan lokal, konten pelajarannya tidak harus sejarah tentang perang dan kesenjangan antara Islam dan non Islam, yang diajarkan karya Tokoh-Tokoh Nusantara. Materi yang disajikan hendaknya lebih  bersifat fungsional (3) Aspek Lembaga: Lembaga Pendidikan Agama Islam harus toleran terhadap kemajemukan siswa baik Ras, Suku bahkan Agama.
RELEVANSI PEMIKIRAN MAQASHID AL-SYARIAH JASSER AUDA TERHADAP SISTEM PENDIDIKAN ISLAM MULTIDISIPLINER
Authors: Mutholingah Siti , Zamzami Muh. Rodhi
Published: October 2018

Perkembangan zaman tentu memiliki dampak dalam berbagai aspek kehidupan umat Islam, termasuk dalam konteks keilmuan Islam. Studi tentang tujuan mendasar dari hukum Islam (maqashid al-syariah) dan produk hukum Islam (fiqh) tentu akan semakin dibutuhkan dalam rangka memenuhi kebutuhan hukum Islam yang semakin dihadapkan dengan fenomena yang tidak terjadi pada saat Nabi, masa teman, periode tabi'iin, atau periode tabi'in tabi. Menurut beberapa ulama ushul dan ulama fiqih Islam dari era sekarang (kontemporer) menganggap bahwa ada beberapa maqashid al-syari'ah dan hukum Islam (fiqh) yang harus ditinjau karena mereka kurang relevan jika diimplementasikan dalam konteks kehidupan Muslim hari ini. Salah satu ulama ushul fikih kontemporer adalah Jasser Auda. Hal utama yang mendasari mengapa Jasser Auda ingin meninjau maqashid al-sharia klasik, menurut Jasser Auda maqashid al-sharia klasik yang mencakup hifdz al-diin, hifdz al-nafs, hifdz al-aql, hifdz al-nasl, dan hifdz al-maal, masih cenderung terlalu umum, individual dan tidak mengandung nilai universal seperti prinsip keadilan dan kebebasan.
Identifikasi Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Kemiskinan Di Provinsi Bengkulu
Authors: Mintargo Mintargo , Barika Barika , Rahmantyo Edy
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this research is to analyze the effect of unemployment with skill (X1), amount of population (X2), and minimum of wage region (X3) against proverty (Y) in Bengkulu Province. The method of analysis by an Ordinary Least Square (OLS). The data that used in this research is pooled data from BPS (Badan Pusat Statistik) of Bengkulu Province and Bapenas (period of data is 2009 � 2013 ). From the output of regression with Eviews (econometric views) aplication indicated that amount of population (X2) having significant effect against proverty (Y). unemployment with skill (X1) is not significant with proverty (Y), and the last minimum of wage region (X3) isnot significant too with proverty (Y). The coefisien regression of variables are coefisien regress of X1 aqual -0.0001200, coefisien regress of X2 equal 0.000200, and coefisien regress of X3 equal -5.18E-06.
Understanding the Sleep Habits of Children Within an Indigenous Community
Authors: Hovey Richard B. , Seganathy Evangeline , Morck Angela C. , Phillips Morgan , Poulette Adriana , King Morrison , Macaulay Ann C. , Gruber Reut
Published: October 2018

This study was developed within the participatory research framework of a diabetes prevention project to understand the meaning of sleep and sleep habits of Indigenous preschool and elementary school children. Sleep deprivation is a known risk factor for obesity and Type 2 diabetes. A philosophical hermeneutic approach utilized interviews and focus groups with cultural knowledge holders, Elders, parents, teachers, and school administrators. The findings reflect how Indigenous community members understood sleep through the themes of traditional ways, changing times and concerns, increasing technology, generation gaps, parental responsibility, eating habits, physical activity, and children’s behaviours in school. After dissemination to the community, the findings were combined with traditional teachings and national recommendations to develop culture- and age-appropriate sleep-promoting educational materials for schools and the broader community.
1918 And All This – The Education (Scotland) Act then and now
Authors: Edwards Owen Dudley
Published: October 2018

On the centenary of the Education (Scotland) Act, 1918, this essay offers personal reflections on its immediate impact and longer term legacies upon Scottish Catholicism. A century of Catholic state schools in Scotland has evolved very different Catholics – and a very different Scotland.
Police Governance and Accountability in Scotland Following Reform: Revisiting the Policy Rationale for the Creation of the Scottish Police Authority
Authors: Malik Ali
Published: October 2018

This article critically assesses the policy discourse for police reform in Scotland, specifically focusing on the rationale for the creation of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA). Through a chronological review of official policy reports and consultations that took place prior to the 2012 Act, and by drawing on a select number of interviews 1 conducted as part of the wider study (Malik, 2017a), I argue that while austerity became the catalyst for change, police reform in Scotland was strongly supported by concerns around weak police governance arrangements. The SPA was created to strengthen financial oversight, to provide enhanced focus on national policing requirements and to bring in professional governance competencies and expertise that the local police authorities lacked. In the five years since reform, the SPA has continued to struggle to address these weaknesses. Furthermore, the official reform agenda neglected the need for robust mechanisms for accountability of operational policing. This omission manifested in the most abrasive fashion following the 2012 Act as cases such as stop and search and armed policing highlighted the inadequacies of the new police governance arrangements. In order that the SPA can fulfil its intended purpose, it needs to enhance its capacity and focus on providing holistic mechanisms for police governance that incorporate financial oversight and robust accountability of operational policing.
Online Adaptive Parameter Estimation for Quadrotors
Authors: Zhao Jun , Wang Xian , Gao Guanbin , Na Jing , Liu Hongping , Luan Fujin
Published: October 2018

The stability and robustness of quadrotors are always influenced by unknown or immeasurable system parameters. This paper proposes a novel adaptive parameter estimation technology to obtain high-accuracy parameter estimation for quadrotors. A typical mathematical model of quadrotors is first obtained, which can be used for parameter estimation. Then, an expression of the parameter estimation error is derived by introducing a set of auxiliary filtered variables. Moreover, an augmented matrix is constructed based on the obtained auxiliary filtered variables, which is then used to design new adaptive laws to achieve exponential convergence under the standard persistent excitation (PE) condition. Finally, a simulation and an experimental verification for a typical quadrotor system are shown to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A Machine Learning View on Momentum and Reversal Trading
Authors: Li Zhixi , Tam Vincent
Published: October 2018

Momentum and reversal effects are important phenomena in stock markets. In academia, relevant studies have been conducted for years. Researchers have attempted to analyze these phenomena using statistical methods and to give some plausible explanations. However, those explanations are sometimes unconvincing. Furthermore, it is very difficult to transfer the findings of these studies to real-world investment trading strategies due to the lack of predictive ability. This paper represents the first attempt to adopt machine learning techniques for investigating the momentum and reversal effects occurring in any stock market. In the study, various machine learning techniques, including the Decision Tree (DT), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network (MLP), and Long Short-Term Memory Neural Network (LSTM) were explored and compared carefully. Several models built on these machine learning approaches were used to predict the momentum or reversal effect on the stock market of mainland China, thus allowing investors to build corresponding trading strategies. The experimental results demonstrated that these machine learning approaches, especially the SVM, are beneficial for capturing the relevant momentum and reversal effects, and possibly building profitable trading strategies. Moreover, we propose the corresponding trading strategies in terms of market states to acquire the best investment returns.
Do Brands Matter in Unlisted Firms? An Empirical Study of the Association between Brand Equity and Financial Performance
Authors: Schmitz Anne , Villaseñor-Román Nieves
Published: October 2018

In spite of the importance of the brand management in marketing studies and practice, there is a scarcity of prior research on the links between brand equity and financial performance, particularly in unlisted (unquoted) firms. The study contributes to prior research along a number of dimensions. It provides evidence on the relevance of brands for unlisted firms of several industries, by showing that brand equity is associated with financial performance even in non-quoted firms without world-recognized brands. Second, the study analyzes the association between brands and accounting-based measures of performance, across different windows and financial indicators. Finally, the evidence on earnings persistence is particularly relevant, as it potentially sheds light on the existing debate on the association between brand equity and stock markets. To the extent that firms with greater brand equity have more persistent earnings, current earnings contain greater information about future earnings, which show the relevance of brand management in the strategic planning of unlisted firms.
Antimicrobial Silver in Medicinal and Consumer Applications: A Patent Review of the Past Decade (2007–2017)
Authors: Sim Wilson , Barnard Ross T. , Blaskovich M.A.T. , Ziora Zyta M.
Published: October 2018

The use of silver to control infections was common in ancient civilizations. In recent years, this material has resurfaced as a therapeutic option due to the increasing prevalence of bacterial resistance to antimicrobials. This renewed interest has prompted researchers to investigate how the antimicrobial properties of silver might be enhanced, thus broadening the possibilities for antimicrobial applications. This review presents a compilation of patented products utilizing any forms of silver for its bactericidal actions in the decade 2007–2017. It analyses the trends in patent applications related to different forms of silver and their use for antimicrobial purposes. Based on the retrospective view of registered patents, statements of prognosis are also presented with a view to heightening awareness of potential industrial and health care applications.
Effect of Seat Condition on Abdominal Injuries to Vehicle Occupants in Frontal Impact Accidents
Authors: Matsui Yasuhiro , Oikawa Shoko
Published: October 2018

Vehicle occupants were killed in 33% of all traffic accidents in Japan in 2017. Of the vehicles in vehicle-to-vehicle accidents, 54% were impacted from the front. In frontal impact accidents, when the lap belt moves away from the iliac crests of the pelvis of a vehicle occupant, the belt moves directly into the abdomen. Here, we investigated causes of abdominal injuries to vehicle occupants, because the abdomen is associated with the highest rates of severe injury and fatality. The purpose of this study was to clarify the correlation between downward movement of the seat and of the lap belt away from the iliac crests of a human occupant of a car, in the event of a frontal impact. We investigated this phenomenon by conducting simulations using an anthropomorphic 50th percentile male (AM50) human model wearing a three-point seatbelt. We set two deformable seat conditions: Vertical movement and lean forward movement. Our results revealed that the lap belt came off from both of the iliac crests during lean forward movement but only from one of the iliac crests during vertical movement. We concluded that abdominal injuries can be caused by downward movement together with forward rotation in the seat during vehicle-to-vehicle frontal impacts.
Development of the Flexible Ring on an Elastic Continuous Foundation Tire Model for Planar Vibration of the Heavy Load Radial Tire
Authors: Liu Zhihao , Gao Qinhe , Niu Hailong
Published: October 2018

This paper investigates the planar vibration characteristic of heavy load radial tires with a large flat ratio. A proposed tire model with a flexible ring on an elastic continuous foundation is investigated utilizing kinematic modeling and experimental modal analysis. Planar coupling deformation of the radial and tangential direction is considered to enrich the kinematic characteristic of the flexible belt and the continuous sidewall; a flexible ring on an elastic continuous foundation tire model is proposed to investigate the coupling vibration characteristic between the flexible belt and the continuous sidewall. In-extensibility assumption is utilized to simplify the proposed tire model and the planar vibration modal features of the heavy load radial tire are discussed. The variation of the inflation pressure on the radial and tangential stiffness of the sidewall spring model is enriched into the flexible ring on an elastic continuous foundation tire model to extend the modal prediction of the tires with a different inflation pressure. Taking the relative error between the experimental and analytical modal resonance frequency of the tested tire with a different inflation pressure as the object value, structural parameters of the proposed tire model are identified by a backward genetic algorithm. Experimental and theoretical results show that: the planar coupling vibration characteristic of the heavy load radial tire can be predicted precisely with the flexible ring on an elastic continuous foundation tire model; meanwhile, considering the linear variations of the radial and tangential sidewall stiffness due to the inflation pressure, the proposed tire model can be extended to analyze the vibration characteristic of the heavy load radial tire with a different inflation pressure.
EMD-Shannon Entropy-Based Methodology to Detect Incipient Damages in a Truss Structure
Authors: Moreno-Gomez Alejandro , Amezquita-Sanchez Juan P. , Valtierra-Rodriguez Martin , Perez-Ramirez Carlos A. , Dominguez-Gonzalez Aurelio , Chavez-Alegria Omar
Published: October 2018

Truss-type designs are widely used in civil structures. Despite the fact that they are robust and reliable structures, different kinds of damage can appear. In order to avoid human and economic losses, the development and application of damage-detection methodologies are paramount. In this work, a methodology based on the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) method and the Shannon Entropy Index (SEI) to detect incipient damages associated with corrosion in a 3D 9-bay truss-type bridge is presented. As different EMD methods are presented in literature, the most representative methods are investigated in order to evaluate their performance for this task. To this end, the vibration signals generated in the truss-type bridge at different conditions are analyzed. For the damage condition, four severity levels of simulated corrosion (1 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm, and 8 mm of diameter reduction) generated into the elements of truss-type bridge are considered. Results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposal in terms of detecting corrosion in its very early stage (1 mm of reduction in the element).
Analysis of the Intrinsic Self-Organising Properties of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Three-Dimensional Co-Culture Models with Endothelial Cells
Authors: Marshall Julia , Barnes Amanda , Genever Paul
Published: October 2018

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are typically characterised by their ability to differentiate into skeletal (osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic) lineages. MSCs also appear to have additional non-stem cell functions in coordinating tissue morphogenesis and organising vascular networks through interactions with endothelial cells (ECs). However, suitable experimental models to examine these apparently unique MSC properties are lacking. Following previous work, we have developed our 3D in vitro co-culture models to enable us to track cellular self-organisation events in heterotypic cell spheroids combining ECs, MSCs and their differentiated progeny. In these systems, MSCs, but not related fibroblastic cell types, promote the assembly of ECs into interconnected networks through intrinsic mechanisms, dependent on the relative abundance of MSC and EC numbers. Perturbation of endogenous platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signalling significantly increased EC network length, width and branching. When MSCs were pre-differentiated towards an osteogenic or chondrogenic lineage and co-cultured as mixed 3D spheroids, they segregated into polarised osseous and chondral regions. In the presence of ECs, the pre-differentiated MSCs redistributed to form a central mixed cell core with an outer osseous layer. Our findings demonstrate the intrinsic self-organising properties of MSCs, which may broaden their use in regenerative medicine and advance current approaches.
Photoplethysmography and Deep Learning: Enhancing Hypertension Risk Stratification
Authors: Liang Yongbo , Chen Zhencheng , Ward Rabab , Elgendi Mohamed
Published: October 2018

Blood pressure is a basic physiological parameter in the cardiovascular circulatory system. Long-term abnormal blood pressure will lead to various cardiovascular diseases, making the early detection and assessment of hypertension profoundly significant for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In this paper, we investigate whether or not deep learning can provide better results for hypertension risk stratification when compared to the classical signal processing and feature extraction methods. We tested a deep learning method for the classification and evaluation of hypertension using photoplethysmography (PPG) signals based on the continuous wavelet transform (using Morse) and pretrained convolutional neural network (using GoogLeNet). We collected 121 data recordings from the Multiparameter Intelligent Monitoring in Intensive Care (MIMIC) Database, each containing arterial blood pressure (ABP) and photoplethysmography (PPG) signals. The ABP signals were utilized to extract blood pressure category labels, and the PPG signals were used to train and test the model. According to the seventh report of the Joint National Committee, blood pressure levels are categorized as normotension (NT), prehypertension (PHT), and hypertension (HT). For the early diagnosis and assessment of HT, the timely detection of PHT and the accurate diagnosis of HT are significant. Therefore, three HT classification trials were set: NT vs. PHT, NT vs. HT, and (NT + PHT) vs. HT. The F-scores of these three classification trials were 80.52%, 92.55%, and 82.95%, respectively. The tested deep method achieved higher accuracy for hypertension risk stratification when compared to the classical signal processing and feature extraction method. Additionally, the method achieved comparable results to another approach that requires electrocardiogram and PPG signals.
Brain Mapping as Helpful Tool in Brain Glioma Surgical Treatment—Toward the “Perfect Surgery”?
Authors: Barone Fabio , Alberio Nicola , Iacopino Domenico Gerardo , Giammalva Giuseppe Roberto , D’Arrigo Corrado , Tagnese Walter , Graziano Francesca , Cicero Salvatore , Maugeri Rosario
Published: October 2018

Gliomas are the most common primary malignant brain tumours in adults, representing nearly 80%, with poor prognosis in their high-grade forms. Several variables positively affect the prognosis of patients with high-grade glioma: young age, tumour location, radiological features, recurrence, and the opportunity to perform post-operative adjuvant therapy. Low-grade gliomas are slow-growing brain neoplasms of adolescence and young-adulthood, preferentially involving functional areas, particularly the eloquent ones. It has been demonstrated that early surgery and higher extent rate ensure overall longer survival time regardless of tumour grading, but nowadays, functional preservation that is as complete as possible is imperative. To achieve the best surgical results, along with the best functional results, intraoperative mapping and monitoring of brain functions, as well as different anaesthesiology protocols for awake surgery are nowadays being widely adopted. We report on our experience at our institution with 28 patients affected by malignant brain tumours who underwent brain mapping-aided surgical resection of neoplasm: 20 patients underwent awake surgical resection and 8 patients underwent asleep surgical resection. An analysis of the results and a review of the literature has been performed.
Health Behaviors of Student Community Research Partners When Designing and Implementing a Healthy Lifestyle Intervention on College Campuses
Authors: Barr Makenzie L. , Colby Sarah E. , Riggsbee Kristin , Leischner Krista , Mathews Anne E. , Vilaro Melissa J. , Kattelmann Kendra K. , Olfert Melissa D.
Published: October 2018

Few studies work with college students as equal partners in all aspects of Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) and even less evaluate behaviors of those college partners. The current study aimed to examine health behaviors of students by designing and implementing a peer-led, social marketing campaign (Get Fruved) to promote healthier lifestyles on their campuses. Enrolled students (n = 376) were trained to either design and implement a health promotion intervention (Social Marketing and Environmental Interventionists; SMEI, n = 78), be peer mentors (PM; n = 205), or serve as control participants (n = 93). Students’ behaviors (dietary, activity, and stress) and anthropometrics were assessed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. The population was predominately Caucasian, female, and between 19 and 20 years old. On average, fruit and vegetable consumption slightly decreased across all time points for each group with control at a larger decline. Students International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) scores showed students met recommended amounts of activity throughout the intervention, with males reporting higher activity levels. Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) analyses indicated 19 year olds had higher stress along with females had higher than males. Students involved in a CBPR approach to be trained, design, and implement a lifestyle intervention can achieve maintenance of health behaviors throughout a college year when compared to control students.
Downregulation of TRAIL-Receptor 1 Increases TGFβ Type II Receptor Expression and TGFβ Signalling Via MicroRNA-370-3p in Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Radke David I. , Ling Qi , Häsler Robert , Alp Gökhan , Ungefroren Hendrik , Trauzold Anna
Published: October 2018

The accumulation of perturbations in signalling pathways resulting in an apoptosis-insensitive phenotype is largely responsible for the desperate prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Accumulating evidence suggests that the death receptors TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2 play important roles in PDAC biology by acting as either tumour suppressors through induction of cell death or tumour promoters through induction of pro-inflammatory signalling, invasion and metastasis. TRAIL-R2 can also associate with nuclear proteins and alter the maturation of micro RNAs (miRs). By genome-wide miR profiling and quantitative PCR analyses we now demonstrate that knockdown of TRAIL-R1 in PDAC cells decreased the level of mature miR-370 and led to an increased abundance of the type II receptor for transforming growth factor β (TGFβ). Transfection of cells with an artificial miR-370-3p decreased the levels of TGFβ-RII. We further show that transient expression of the miR-370 mimic decreased TGFβ1-induced expression of SERPINE1 encoding plasminogen activator-inhibitor 1 and partially relieved TGFβ1-induced growth inhibition. Moreover, stable TRAIL-R1 knockdown in Colo357 cells increased TGFβ1-induced SERPINE1 expression and this effect was partially reversed by transient expression of the miR-370 mimic. Finally, after transient knockdown of TRAIL-R1 in Panc1 cells there was a tendency towards enhanced activation of Smad2 and JNK1/2 signalling by exogenous TGFβ1. Taken together, our study reveals that TRAIL-R1 through regulation of miR-370 can decrease the sensitivity of PDAC cells to TGFβ and therefore represents a potential tumour suppressor in late-stage PDAC.
Advances in Nanostructured Metal-Encapsulated Porous Organic-Polymer Composites for Catalyzed Organic Chemical Synthesis
Authors: Sebati Wilhemina , Ray Suprakas Sinha
Published: October 2018

Porous organic polymers (POPs) are of growing research interest owing to their high surface areas, stabilities, controllable chemical configurations, and tunable pore volumes. The molecular nanoarchitecture of POP provides metal or metal oxide binding sites, which is promising for the development of advanced heterogeneous catalysts. This article highlights the development of numerous kinds of POPs and key achievements to date, including their functionalization and incorporation of nanoparticles into their framework structures, characterization methods that are predominantly in use for POP-based materials, and their applications as catalysts in several reactions. Scientists today are capable of preparing POP-based materials that show good selectivity, activity, durability, and recoverability, which can help overcome many of the current environmental and industrial problems. These POP-based materials exhibit enhanced catalytic activities for diverse reactions, including coupling, hydrogenation, and acid catalysis.