bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation Expansion Planning with High Penetration of Wind Power
Authors: Sharan Ishan , Balasubramanian R.
Published: August 2016

Worldwide thrust is being provided in generation of electricity from wind. Planning for the developmental needs of wind based power has to be consistent with the objective and basic framework of overall resource planning. The operational issues associated with the integration of wind power must be addressed at the planning stage. Lack of co-ordinated planning of wind turbine generators, conventional generating units and expansion of the transmission system may lead to curtailment of wind power due to transmission inadequacy or operational constraints. This paper presents a generation expansion planning model taking into account fuel transportation and power transmission constraints, while addressing the operational issues associated with the high penetration of wind power. For analyzing the operational issues, security constrained unit commitment algorithm is embedded in the integrated generation and transmission expansion planning model. The integrated generation and transmission expansion planning problem has been formulated as a mixed integer linear problem involving both binary and continuous variables in GAMS. The model has been applied to the expansion planning of a real system to illustrate the proposed approach.
Arylsulphatase activity and sulphate content in relation to crop rotation and fertilization of soil
Authors: Siwik-Ziomek Anetta , Lemanowicz Joanna , Koper Jan
Published: August 2016

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of varying rates of FYM (0, 20, 40, 60 Mg ha−1) and nitrogen N0, N1, N2, and N3 on the content of sulphate sulphur (VI) and the activity of arylsulphatase, which participates in the transformations of this element in Haplic Luvisol. The study report is based on a long-term field experiment with two different crop rotations: A – recognized as exhausting the humus from soil and B – recognized as enriching the soil with humus. During the cultivation of the plants, the soil was sampled four times from corn and a red clover cultivar and grass. The FYM fertilization rate for which the highest arylsulphatase activity and the content of sulphates were identified was 60 Mg ha−1. An inhibitory effect of high rates (90 and 135 kg N ha−1) of ammonium nitrate on the arylsulphatase activity was also observed. A significant correlation between the content of carbon, nitrogen, and sulphates and the arylsulphatase activity was recorded. The investigation on the effect of combined application of farmyard manure and mineral nitrogen fertilization on the activity of arylsulphatase participating in the sulphur cycling was launched to examine the problem in detail.
Influences of post weld heat treatment on tensile strength and microstructure characteristics of friction stir welded butt joints of AA2014-T6 aluminum alloy
Authors: Rajendran C. , Srinivasan K. , Balasubramanian V. , Balaji H. , Selvaraj P.
Published: August 2016

Friction stir welded (FSWed) joints of aluminum alloys exhibited a hardness drop in both the advancing side (AS) and retreating side (RS) of the thermo-mechanically affected zone (TMAZ) due to the thermal cycle involved in the FSW process. In this investigation, an attempt has been made to overcome this problem by post weld heat treatment (PWHT) methods. FSW butt (FSWB) joints of Al-Cu (AA2014-T6) alloy were PWHT by two methods such as simple artificial aging (AA) and solution treatment followed by artificial aging (STA). Of these two treatments, STA was found to be more beneficial than the simple aging treatment to improve the tensile properties of the FSW joints of AA2014 aluminum alloy.
Tsallis statistics and neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Iliopoulos Aggelos C. , Tsolaki Magdalini , Aifantis Elias C.
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we perform statistical analysis of time series deriving from four neurodegenerative disorders, namely epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD). The time series are concerned with electroencephalograms (EEGs) of healthy and epileptic states, as well as gait dynamics (in particular stride intervals) of the ALS, PD and HDs. We study data concerning one subject for each neurodegenerative disorder and one healthy control. The analysis is based on Tsallis non-extensive statistical mechanics and in particular on the estimation of Tsallis q-triplet, namely {qstat, qsen, qrel}. The deviation of Tsallis q-triplet from unity indicates non-Gaussian statistics and long-range dependencies for all time series considered. In addition, the results reveal the efficiency of Tsallis statistics in capturing differences in brain dynamics between healthy and epileptic states, as well as differences between ALS, PD, HDs from healthy control subjects. The results indicate that estimations of Tsallis q-indices could be used as possible biomarkers, along with others, for improving classification and prediction of epileptic seizures, as well as for studying the gait complex dynamics of various diseases providing new insights into severity, medications and fall risk, improving therapeutic interventions.
The Effect of Temperature and Precipitation Conditions on the Growth and Development Dynamics of Five Cultivars of Processing Tomato
Authors: Jędrszczyk Elżbieta , Skowera Barbara , Gawęda Maria , Libik Andrzej
Published: August 2016

Cultivation of field tomato in Poland meets unfavorable temperature and precipitation conditions, which affect yield and quality. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of temperature and precipitation conditions on the growth and development dynamics of five cultivars of processing tomato. The analysis took into account the key morphological characteristics of the plant, the inflorescence and fruit, which determine the suitability of the cultivar for processing. Analysis of the effect of meteorological elements on the stem development showed that stem length was most strongly influenced by precipitation – both total precipitation and frequency, rather than by temperature; the greater the rainfall, the more intensive stem elongation. High levels of precipitation limited gains in stem thickness. The number of flowers and fruits formed per inflorescence was negatively correlated with temperature. Excessive precipitation during the entire growing period led to formation of smaller fruits. The length and width of the fruit were negatively correlated with the frequency of precipitation in all stages, and with total precipitation during the period from planting to setting of the first fruits. A beneficial effect of temperature on the length and width of the fruit was noted during the entire growing period. The tomato fruit formed a thicker pericarp when precipitation was more frequent.
Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne javanica) – Deficit Irrigation Interactions on Eggplant Cropped under Open Field Conditions
Authors: Karajeh Muwaffaq , Mohawesh Osama
Published: August 2016

To investigate the influence of deficit irrigation on the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne javanica, and its interaction with the eggplant crop, field experiments were conducted at two drip-irrigated agricultural areas in Jordan. Effects of limiting irrigation levels to 80, 60, 40 and 20% of the field capacity (FC) were compared with full irrigation (100%) treatment. Growth of eggplant plants was greatly reduced at irrigation levels of 40 and 20% FC at one field location, suggesting that the influence of deficit irrigation is field-dependant. Fruit yield was similar at all irrigation levels, except at 20% level, where a lower yield was noticed compared to 100% irrigation. Root galling of eggplant caused by the nematode was significantly lower at irrigation levels of 20 and 40% than 80 and 100% of FC, but was field-dependant at 60% of FC. The final nematode population was obviously lower at irrigation levels of 20, 40 and 60% than 80 and 100%. Thus, deficit irrigation to levels of 40 or 60% of FC can be utilised for the management of M. javanica infection in eggplant under field conditions.
Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Potassium Foliar Sprays on Productivity and Physiological and Biochemical Parameters of Parthenocarpic Cucumber cv. ‘Seven Star F1’
Authors: Pal Priyanka , Yadav Kuldeep , Kumar Krishan , Singh Narender
Published: August 2016

A study was carried out to evaluate the potential of exogenously applied potassium nitrate [1.0 g·dm−3 (K1), 2.5 g·dm−3 (K2) and 5 g·dm−3 (K3)] plus gibberellic acid (GA3) [0.005 g·dm−3 (G1), 0.01 g·dm−3 (G2) and 0.015 g·dm−3 (G3)] on the growth and development of the cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) ‘Seven Star F1’ during various growth stages (40, 55 and 70 days after sowing). Treatment of plants with K plus GA3 stimulated growth shortened the fruit maturation period and increased quality compared with non-sprayed control. The combination G2K2 resulted in maximum total yield, plant height, and total chlorophyll, phosphorus and nitrogen content in the leaves compared with other treatments. Fruit matured significantly earlier in plants sprayed with G2K2. Total yield and fruit quality dry matter, total suspended solids and antioxidant activity percentages were significantly higher in sprayed plants compared with controls. Potassium content in leaves and fruits reached the maximum level with G3K3 treatment. The results clearly showed that the foliar application of G2K2 proved to be the best choice for growing cucumber in terms of quantity and quality of yield.
The Concept of a Method Ensuring Aeronautical Data Quality
Authors: Dudek Ewa , Kozłowski Michał
Published: August 2016

The paper presents the concept of a method ensuring quality of aeronautical data. European Union (among others UE 73/2010) as well as international (among others ICAO Annex 15) regulations introduce a number of requirements regarding the quality and safety of aeronautical data. Those directives set up a complementary regulations system. However with their objective and scope they determine mainly the specifications and requirements that are to be implemented and compatible. Mentioned regulations also refer to selected international standards (e.g. ISO 19157), focused on quality and safety of geographic data and information. Nevertheless within the scope of considered regulations and norms no algorithms and methods of ensuring required quality in the process of aeronautical data collection and processing were determined. Taking into account the identified needs, authors proposed the application of statistical method for process quality management – six-sigma.
The Wave of Migration in Europe as a Cause of Terrorist Threat
Authors: Bąk Tomasz
Published: August 2016

The article presents the migration wave in Europe as the cause of terrorist threats. The conflicts in the Middle East, particularly in Iraq and in Syria, increase the numbers of refugees from those areas and their migration to European countries, mainly EU members. That wave is used by terrorist organisations to smuggle members of those organisations to Europe in order to prepare terrorist attacks. The author also indicated the difficulty in controlling such a huge wave of refugees in the aspect of ensuring security in European countries.
Cross-Cultural Competence in the Time of Cross-Border Migration
Authors: Bojor Laviniu
Published: August 2016

The waves of migrants that are trying to escape from the violence of their home state become a real threat for the security environment of the European countries. Our national security forces, like police and army personnel, should take into consideration future missions that consist in face to face interrelation actions with people from other cultures. Achieving knowledge and developing cross-cultural interrelation skills, with the help of which we can overcome some barriers in communication, can make the difference as long as the force power, in its entirety, no longer represents the sole and sufficient condition to solve actual multicultural crises situations.
Directions for Improving the Planning of the Supply with Clothes, Shoes and Equipment in the Bulgarian Army
Authors: Manolov Daniel
Published: August 2016

This paper presents ways of improving the planning of the supply of clothing, footwear and equipment in the following areas: priority purchase, terms of planning, output planning, planning of stocks and others. The main objective is to establish a methodology for planning the supply of clothing, footwear and equipment. All areas for improvement are consistent and identified in a resource-limited environment and dictated by the ability of the planning system to supply the Bulgarian Army. The paper also presents the option to use the АВС analysis to structure the planned activities of individual groups of property.
New Valences of Terrorism
Authors: Mureşan Doina
Published: August 2016

The most dangerous of present threats is regarded as international terrorism. The areas of instability are numerous and are located generally on major strategic fault but reality shows us that such areas could appear even in the heart of stable countries and economic, political and social potential very high. In the evolution of terrorism there is a tendency to join left to the right terrorism, of seriality and concomitant in terrorist actions and to increase the precision and effects of terrorist activity data convergence between terrorism and high technology used. The expansion of the phenomenon at the universally level requires joint actions to counteraction it and determines the achievement of a general consensus. Thus we are witnessing an impressive group of forces and capabilities, backed by a political consensus unimaginable some time ago. States with divergent positions until yesterday are now on the same frontline of the fight against terrorism. How will it evolve? It can be appreciated that terrorism will remain a problem for the whole world. The phenomenon has serious and numerous implications it be an intolerable attack against universal human values. The terrorism of future years will reflect further technological developments social changes, structural changes at the state and regional and global transfers of increasingly apparent influence in a changing world.
State Sovereignty in the Current Economic Context
Authors: Solescu Daniel
Published: August 2016

Globalization has raised the issue of the place and role of the nation state in the world market. The effects of globalization have resulted in the joint effort of some State’s sovereign powers, quite exclusive until recently, which leads to reconsider the concept of state sovereignty, tasks, functions and objectives of the state. Globalization involves reducing the state intervention in the economic matters, but it does not imply the disappearance of the state concept. The integration in the transnational economy necessarily implies the weakening of the nation-state authority, since it must make room for the independent actors.
Human Resources Monitoring and Development
Authors: Dragomiroiu Rodica , Hurloiu Iulian , Rusu Bianca , Burtea Elena
Published: August 2016

Performance management in organizations is mainly concentrated on evaluating employees’ results and on rewards. The efficient work of a member of an organization is usually seen as a consequence of the interactions between individual skills and motivation. More and more managers of successful business organizations recognize the critical importance of planning and monitoring the employees’ work results.
Participatory Budgeting: A Comparative Study of Croatia, Poland and Slovakia
Authors: Džinić Jasmina , Svidroňová Mária Murray , Markowska-Bzducha Ewa
Published: August 2016

The New Public Management movement regards citizens as customers and, accordingly, focuses on the quality of services provided by public-sector organizations. Since this approach negatively affected democratic values, there has been a shift of the focus from consumer satisfaction and quality of services to quality of governance. The latter implies the improvement of the relationship between government and citizens as active members of the community. Over the last twenty years, participatory budgeting (PB) has become a popular form of co-production intended to improve the quality of local governance. The aim of the article is to provide a comparative analysis of the use and role of PB in Croatia, Poland and Slovakia and to identify the models of PB used in selected countries. In order to compare the case studies of municipalities in selected countries, a qualitative analysis has been used and the classification of PB models applied. Most analyzed local units use the “Porto Alegre adapted for Europe” model, but the “Consultation on public finances”, “Representation of Organized Interest” and “Proximity participation” models are also represented. The main findings are that PB indeed enables better allocation of public sources according to citizens’ needs (various public services were delivered following the trend of social innovation and co-creation), but the problem lies in the low amount assigned for PB from public budgets and the relatively low interest of citizens to participate in the PB processes. PB might also bring certain risks linked with its implementation, e.g. misuse of the idea for political reasons or additional costs of projects delivered in the PB process.
The Politics of Local Tax Policy-Making in Poland
Authors: Swianiewicz Paweł
Published: August 2016

The paper answers two basic questions:

To what extent is tax policy an important item of the local political agenda in Polish municipalities ? Is it a subject of intense debates at city hall and local councils or is it accepted as a routine exercise ? The results suggest that the issues related to local taxes play a relatively marginal role compared to issues such as the location of major investments. However, the importance of taxes in local debates increases in those local communities in which the tax yields collected are larger and in the case of those taxes which are paid by a wider group of tax payers.

Who governs in local tax-policy-making ? According to local provisions the proposal of tax resolution is submitted by the mayor, and the local council makes the final decision. But empirical findings suggest that the practice follows the “strong mayor” model, in which the local political leader, supporter by his staff of the financial department, is more influential than the councilors.

Those questions are answered on the basis of field research conducted in 2014 in 36 Polish municipalities. The research methods included content analysis of minutes of local council meetings, as well as face-to-face survey and semi-structured in-depth interviews with over 100 mayors, chiefs of finance departments in city halls and councilors.
Serum concentrations of PIIINP aminopeptide in dogs with liver fibrosis
Authors: Glińska-Suchocka K. , Orłowska A. , Jankowski M. , Kubiak K. , Spużak J.
Published: August 2016

The aim of the study was to evaluate the serum concentration of the type III procollagen aminopeptide in dogs, and to assess its utility in the diagnosis of liver fibrosis. The study was carried out on 20 dogs of different breeds and of both genders, between 7 and 15 years old. Based on the results of the histopathological examination and the evaluation of the degree of liver fibrosis, the dogs were divided into five groups. The mean serum PIIINP concentration in the group of dogs with stage 1 and 2 liver fibrosis (groups 2 and 3) was five-fold higher than in healthy dogs (group 1). In turn, the mean PIIINP concentration in the group of dogs with stage 3 (group 4) and stage 4 (group 5) fibrosis was 10-fold higher than that of the control group (group 1). Based on the results, we found that the serum PIIINP concentration correlated with the degree of liver fibrosis, assessed based on a histopathological examination. Therefore, PIIINP serum concentration tests may be a promising non-invasive diagnostic technique that could be used in veterinary hepatology to assess the degree of liver fibrosis.
Tanshinones and mental diseases: from chemistry to medicine
Authors: Javed Sana , Tariq Ameema , Ahmed Touqeer , Budzyńska Barbara , Tejada Silvia , Daglia Maria , Nabavi Seyed Fazel , Sobarzo-Sánchez Eduardo , Nabavi Seyed Mohammad
Published: August 2016

The prevalence of mental diseases, especially neurodegenerative disorders, is ever-increasing, while treatment options for such disorders are limited and insufficient. In this scarcity of available medication, it is a feasible strategy to search for potential drugs among natural compounds, such as those found in plants. One such plant source is the root of Chinese sage, Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Labiatae), which contains several compounds reported to possess neuroprotective activities. The most important of these compounds are tanshinones, which have been reported to possess ameliorative activity against a myriad of mental diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury, and glioma, along with promoting neuronal differentiation and manifesting antinociceptive and anticonvulsant outcomes. This review offers a critical evaluation of the utility of tanshinones to treat mental illnesses, and sheds light on the underlying mechanisms through which these naturally occurring compounds confer neuroprotection.
Effects of cigarette smoke condensate on the production and characterization of exopolysaccharides by Streptococcus mutans / Sigara dumanı kondensatının Streptococcus mutans tarafından üretilen eksopolisakkaritlerin üretimi ve karakterizasyonu üzerine etkisi
Authors: Xu Chun ping , Zeng Ying , Shentu Hongqian , Zhao Aijing , Mao Duobin
Published: August 2016

Objective: Streptococcus mutans is regarded as the major agent causing dental caries. It has been well documented that cigarette smoke affects the growth of S. mutans. This study investigate the effect of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) on the production and characterization of exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by S. mutans ATCC 35668.

Methods: Cigarettes of Shanhua brand were used to prepare the CSC. S. mutans was cultured in MSB media with the addition of CSC under anaerobic condition. Furthermore, the EPS fraction was isolated and purified by gel filtration chro-matography on Sepharose CL-6B. The molecular characterization of EPS was analyzed by GC-MS, FT-IR and size exclusion chromatography/multiangle laser light scattering (SEC/MALLS) system.

Results: The results showed that CSC at tested concentrations could significantly increase the growth of S. mutans and acetic acid production, compared with the control. The CSC was not found to affect carbohydrate composition of the EPS, but the molecular mass of EPS decreased from 3.04×104 g/mol (without CSC) to 2.75×104 (with CSC). The SEC/MALLS also revealed the molecular conformation of EPS changed from flexible coil to globular shape in aqueous solution.

Conclusion: This study revealed that CSC was directly able to affect molecular mass and structural conformation of EPS from S. mutans. The molecular characterization of EPS would become an indicator in certain pathological disorders.
A rare cause of acute kidney injury: hypothyroidism / Akut böbrek hasarının nadir bir nedeni: Hipotiroidizm
Authors: Cevher Şimal Köksal , Yenigün Ezgi Çoşkun , Öztürk Ramazan , Dede Fatih
Published: August 2016

Kidneys and thyroid are two basic organs that interact with each other, and when one of them becomes ill, functions of the other are affected. Although electrolyte disturbances are the most common symptoms reported due to hypothyroidism, some are case reports in the literature suggested that acute kidney injury developed due to hypothyroidism. Despite this, we doubt that this information comes into mind in routine clinical practice. To report a case of reversible hypothyroidism-induced acute kidney injury, and review those two clinical conditions, which are often overlooked in the nephrology practice, in the light of the literature. We reported a 75-year-old female patient who admitted for acute kidney injury associated with deep hypothyroidism, required hemodialysis, and underwent a renal biopsy since no etiological factors were detected for acute kidney injury. We emphasized that the patient’s creatinine concentrations gradually returned to normal following hormone replacement therapy. Renal dysfunction in presence of hypothyroidism is a known, but frequently overlooked entity. Hypothyroidism should not be overlooked as the cause of reversible kidney injury since it is easy to treat, and there is almost complete response to treatment in terms of renal failure.
Rhox13 is required for a quantitatively normal first wave of spermatogenesis in mice
Authors: Busada Jonathan T , Velte Ellen K , Serra Nicholas , Cook Kenneth , Niedenberger Bryan A , Willis William D , Goulding Eugenia H , Eddy Edward M , Geyer Christopher B
Published: August 2016

We previously described a novel germ cell-specific X-linkedreproductivehomeoboxgene (Rhox13) that is upregulated at the level of translation in response to retinoic acid (RA) in differentiating spermatogonia and preleptotene spermatocytes. We hypothesize that RHOX13 plays an essential role in male germ cell differentiation, and have tested this by creating aRhox13gene knockout (KO) mouse.Rhox13KO mice are born in expected Mendelian ratios, and adults have slightly reduced testis weights, yet a full complement of spermatogenic cell types. Young KO mice (at ~7–8 weeks of age) have a ≈50% reduction in epididymal sperm counts, but numbers increased to WT levels as the mice reach ~17 weeks of age. Histological analysis of testes from juvenile KO mice reveals a number of defects during the first wave of spermatogenesis. These include increased apoptosis, delayed appearance of round spermatids and disruption of the precise stage-specific association of germ cells within the seminiferous tubules. Breeding studies reveal that both young and aged KO males produce normal-sized litters. Taken together, our results indicate that RHOX13 is not essential for mouse fertility in a controlled laboratory setting, but that it is required for optimal development of differentiating germ cells and progression of the first wave of spermatogenesis.
Influence of different safety shoes on gait and plantar pressure: a standardized examination of workers in the automotive industry
Authors: Ochsmann Elke , Noll Ulrike , Ellegast Rolf , Hermanns Ingo , Kraus Thomas
Published: August 2016

Objective

Working conditions, such as walking and standing on hard surfaces, can increase the development of musculoskeletal complaints. At the interface between flooring and musculoskeletal system, safety shoes may play an important role in the well‐being of employees. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different safety shoes on gait and plantar pressure distributions on industrial flooring.

Methods

Twenty automotive workers were individually fitted out with three different pairs of safety shoes (“normal” shoes, cushioned shoes, and midfoot bearing shoes) . They walked at a given speed of 1.5 m/s. The CUELA measuring system and shoe insoles were used for gait analysis and plantar pressure measurements, respectively. Statistical analysis was conducted by ANOVA analysis for repeated measures.

Results

Walking with cushioned safety shoes or a midfoot bearing safety shoe led to a significant decrease of the average trunk inclination (p< 0.005). Furthermore, the average hip flexion angle decreased for cushioned shoes as well as midfoot bearing shoes (p<0.002). The range of motion of the knee joint increased for cushioned shoes. As expected, plantar pressure distributions varied significantly between cushioned or midfoot bearing shoes and shoes without ergonomic components.

Conclusion

The overall function of safety shoes is the avoidance of injury in case of an industrial accident, but in addition, safety shoes could be a long‐term preventive instrument for maintaining health of the employees’ musculoskeletal system, as they are able to affect gait parameters. Further research needs to focus on safety shoes in working situations.
Thyroptera discifera (Lichtenstein & Peters, 1854) (Chiroptera: Thyropteridae): first record in the state of Sergipe, northeastern Brazil
Authors: Bocchiglieri Adriana , Reis Daiany S. dos , Melo Déborah M. de
Published: August 2016

In Brazil, Thyroptera discifera, Peters’ Disc-winged Bat, occurs in the Amazon basin, Cerrado, and Atlantic Forest. A lactating female was captured in an Atlantic Forest fragment in Sergipe, northeastern Brazil. This specimen represents the first record for this species from the state and increases to 46 the number of bat species known from Sergipe. Our record extends the northeastern distribution limit of the species by approximately 317 km (from the nearest previous record at Salvador, Bahia). This record also supports a rainy season to lactation period for this species.
Physicochemical, Antioxidant and Sensory Quality of Brazilian Blueberry Wine
Authors: SANTOS ROBERTA O. , TRINDADE SIMONE C. , MAURER LUANA H. , BERSCH ANDRIELY M. , SAUTTER CLAUDIA K. , PENNA NEIDI G.
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT Currently, Rio Grande do Sul state is the main producer of blueberry in Brazil. Practically all production is commercialized in fresh state and only a small portion is subject to processing. The blueberry wine making process is an alternative to expand the beverage industry and offers to the consumer a value-added product as well as a new market for Brazilian blueberry producers. The objectives of this study were to produce wines from blueberries and to evaluate the effect of deacidification (with calcium carbonate) and chaptalization (with glucose syrup or sucrose) on physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant content, and sensory parameters. Samples were analyzed for total soluble solids, pH, total titratable acidity, total sugar content, alcohol content, monomeric and total anthocyanin, total flavonols, total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity by DPPH and FRAP methods. The use of calcium carbonate caused a reduction in total titratable acidity, while the use of glucose syrup resulted in wines with low alcohol content. The blueberries wine from Climax and Aliceblue cultivars had higher content of anthocyanin when produced with glucose syrup. The use of calcium carbonate and glucose syrup also provided wines more appreciated by tasters in relation to color. With regard to flavor, George and Aliceblue were the cultivars with lower preference under the control treatments (without carbonate and sugar). The presence of phenolic compounds may have provided a positive influence on wine flavor, once the more preferred wines presented the greater phenolic content.
Recognition memory and DNA damage in undernourished young rats
Authors: MOLZ PATRÍCIA , ELLWANGER JOEL H. , ZENKNER FERNANDA F. , CAMPOS DEIVIS DE , PRÁ DANIEL , PUTZKE MARISA T.L. , FRANKE SILVIA I.R.
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the recognition memory and the levels of DNA damage (blood and hippocampus) in undernourished young Wistar rats. The experiment was conducted along 14-week with rodents divided in control group (CG, n=8) and undernourished group (UG, n=12) which was submitted to caloric restriction. Nutritional status for undernutrition was defined by Body Mass Index (BMI) ≤0.45g/cm2 and by weighting the organs/tissue (liver, spleen, intestine, peritoneal fat, kidney and encephalon). The Novel Object Recognition Test assessed recognition memory and the Comet Assay evaluated the levels of DNA damage. Student t test, 2-way ANOVA and Pearson's correlation analysis were used and the significance level was of p<0.05. The UG showed lower BMI and organ/tissue weights than CG (p<0.001). In short-term memory, the recognition rate was higher in the UG (p<0.05), only after 4 weeks. In the long-term memory, again recognition rate was higher in the UG than the CG, after 4 weeks (p<0.001) and 14 weeks (p<0.01). The UG showed decreased levels of DNA damage in the blood (p<0.01) and increased levels in the hippocampus (p<0.01). We concluded in this study that the undernutrition by caloric restriction did not cause impairment in recognition memory, however induced DNA damage in the hippocampus.
Representações sociais dos usuários hospitalizados sobre cidadania: implicações para o cuidado hospitalar
Authors: Araújo Flávia Pacheco de , Sauthier Marta , Ferreira Márcia de Assunção
Published: August 2016

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as representacoes sociais de usuarios hospitalizados sobre a cidadania no cuidado hospitalar. Método: abordagem qualitativa com referencial da Teoria das Representacoes Sociais, realizada com 31 usuarios hospitalizados no setor de clinica medica de um hospital publico, universitario. Realizou-se entrevista semiestruturada, cujos dados foram submetidos ao programa Alceste, com aplicacao de analise lexical. Resultados: os usuarios conhecem os seus direitos, e a cidadania no cuidado e entendida a luz dos direitos a saude, de modo que sejam bem atendidos do ponto de vista tecnico e humano. Conclusão: o bom trato relacional e a prestacao do cuidado tecnico-procedimental sao direitos dos usuarios; logo, a ausência de um ou de outra implica o nao respeito a sua cidadania.
Prevenção e monitorização do delirium no idoso: uma intervenção educativa
Authors: Faustino Tássia Nery , Pedreira Larissa Chaves , Freitas Yasmin Seixas de , Silva Rosana Maria de Oliveira , Amaral Juliana Bezerra do
Published: August 2016

RESUMO Objetivo: realizar uma intervenção educativa com membros da equipe de enfermagem de uma unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI), com vistas a ampliar o conhecimento e introduzir melhorias nas suas práticas de prevenção e monitorização do delirium nos pacientes idosos. Método: pesquisa-ação em que foram realizadas oficinas com onze enfermeiras e uma técnica em enfermagem de uma UTI de Salvador, Bahia-Brasil. Resultados: dez problemas relacionados a práticas de enfermagem para prevenção e monitorização do delirium foram identificados. Planejaram-se ações de caráter educativo, prático, técnico e gerencial, envolvendo a articulação intersetorial para o equacionamento desses problemas. O grupo relatou mudanças significativas nas práticas, com a implementação de medidas não farmacológicas para prevenção e gestão do quadro. Conclusão: a intervenção educativa contribuiu para a melhoria nas práticas da enfermagem da UTI pesquisada, assim como favoreceu o desenvolvimento da consciência crítica acerca da problemática levantada, possibilitando a revisão permanente do cuidado ofertado.
The Spiritism as therapy in the health care in the epilepsy
Authors: Vancini Rodrigo Luiz , Lira Claudio Andre Barbosa de , Vancini-Campanharo Cássia Regina , Barbosa Dulce Aparecida , Arida Ricardo Mario
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT Objective: to present a brief history of Spiritism, the vision of epilepsy by Spiritism, and the potential of spirituality and religiosity care as complementary and coadjutants treatments in epilepsy. Method: this is a brief review about the impact of faith, spirituality, and religiosity, particularly the Spiritism philosophy as complementary treatment to neurological disorders (particularly focusing on epilepsy) and mental health. We conduct a review of published articles (about religion/spirituality and epilepsy) in the Pubmed and SciELO databases. Conclusion: the exercise of spirituality and religiosity can be a positive coping strategy to support the traditional therapy of patients with epilepsy and other neurological disorders. However, it is necessary to demystify myths and beliefs about the epilepsy and improve knowledge about this important health dimension among professionals, patients, and caregivers to explore their full treatment and supportive potential.
Fatores associados ao contato pele a pele entre mãe/filho e amamentação na sala de parto
Authors: SILVA Cristianny Miranda e , PEREIRA Simone Cardoso Lisboa , PASSOS Ieda Ribeiro , SANTOS Luana Caroline dos
Published: August 2016

RESUMO Objetivo Investigar fatores associados ao contato pele a pele entre mãe e filho e à amamentação na sala de parto entre nutrizes atendidas em um banco de leite humano. Métodos Foram avaliadas 12.283 mães em estudo retrospectivo (2009-2012) com dados secundários obtidos de protocolo estruturado. Adotou-se modelo de Poisson com abordagem hierarquizada em níveis distal, intermediário e proximal para dados sociodemográficos maternos; pré-natais e gestacionais; do bebê; e atenção hospitalar. Resultados Estiveram associados, respectivamente, à maior prevalência do contato pele a pele e da amamentação na sala de parto: parto normal (RP=1,34; IC95% 1,27-1,41 e RP=1,63; IC95% 1,45-1,83) e sem complicação (RP=1,24; IC95% 1,12-1,38 e RP=1,27; IC95% 1,03-1,56), peso ao nascer adequado (RP=1,23; IC95% 1,11-1,36 e RP=1,92; IC95% 1,48-2,48) e a termo (RP=1,18; IC95% 1,10-1,28 e RP=1,40; IC95% 1,17-1,67). Conclusão A forte influência da atenção hospitalar e as condições ao nascer do recém-nascido explicaram os desfechos em estudo. Ressalta-se a necessidade da adoção de medidas que priorizem o contato pele a pele e a amamentação na sala de parto nos grandes hospitais da capital, como a redução ou adiamento de intervenções na assistência pós-parto. Estudos longitudinais poderão esclarecer outras questões sobre o tema.
Impact of an Interdisciplinary Food, Nutrition and Health Education Program for adolescent Brazilian volleyball players
Authors: DANIEL Natália Vilela Silva , JÜRGENSEN Luana Pilon , PADOVANI Ricardo da Costa , JUZWIAK Claudia Ridel
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the impact of an Interdisciplinary Food, Nutrition and Health Education Program on nutrition knowledge, intention to change eating behavior, and body dissatisfaction of adolescent volleyball players. Methods: The sample consisted of 10 female volleyball players from the juvenile category of the city of Santos, São Paulo, Brazil, who participated in a program with eight monthly meetings (one discussion group followed by six educational activities and one final discussion group for evaluation). Results: Nutrition knowledge, body perception, intention to change eating behavior, eating attitudes and practices were investigated using questionnaires and discussion groups before and after the athletes' participation in ludic activities designed to address nutrition strategies for athletic performance and healthy eating, and how to deal with pressure for results and self-image. Nutrition knowledge improved from 57.0%±9.9 to 63.0%±11.8 (p=0.03) of correct answers. The mean body distortion score did not change (70.0±14.9 versus 76.5±22.4, p=0.235). Six athletes advanced in their intention to change eating behavior. Positive food practices were reported during the program and the identified discourses indicated the intention of changing the daily eating habits in the future. Conclusion: The program had a positive impact on nutrition knowledge and intention of changing eating behavior; however, for other issues, especially involving emotional aspects, further interventions should be planned.
Impacto da suplementação de vitamina C sobre níveis de peroxidação lipídica e glutationa reduzida em tecido hepático de camundongos com imunossupressão induzida por ciclofosfamida
Authors: ARAÚJO Évelyn de Sousa , GARCIA Rosane Scussel , DAMBRÓS Betina , PIENIZ Simone , SCHNEIDER Augusto , ABIB Renata Torres
Published: August 2016

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos da vitamina C sobre níveis de peroxidação lipídica e glutationa reduzida em tecido hepático de camundongos imunossuprimidos por ciclofosfamida. Métodos: O estudo foi realizado em camundongos Swiss, fêmeas, com 45 dias de idade, separados em quatro grupos com oito animais cada. Grupos: controle (água destilada), vitamina C (50 mg/kg), ciclofosfamida (100 + 150 mg/kg) e tratamento (vitamina C 50 mg/kg + ciclofosfamida 100 +150 mg/kg). Todas as aplicações foram via intraperitoneal. O ensaio biológico teve duração de seis dias, sendo o sétimo a eutanásia dos animais. As análises bioquímicas de peroxidação lipídica (quantificação de substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico) e glutationa reduzida (estimativa de tiois não proteicos) foram realizadas em tecido hepático. Resultados: A ciclofosfamida causou aumento significativo (p<0,0001) nos níveis de peroxidação lipídica. Não foram observadas alterações significativas nos grupos tratados com vitamina C. A ciclofosfamida por si só, não alterou níveis de glutationa reduzida. A vitamina C causou a redução do nível de glutationa reduzida em relação ao controle tanto nos animais que receberam ciclofosfamida quanto nos que não receberam. No entanto, nos grupos tratados com o quimioterápico houve uma interação entre a droga e a vitamina, ou seja, o quimioterápico intensificou a diminuição da glutationa reduzida provocada pela vitamina C. Conclusão: A ciclofosfamida, na dose e período utilizados, foi capaz de induzir o dano oxidativo verificado pelo aumento da peroxidação lipídica. A vitamina C, na dose de 50 mg/kg de peso, não apresentou potencial para proteger contra o dano oxidativo provocado pelo quimioterápico.
The nutritional status of nurses working shifts: A pilot study in Turkey
Authors: VARLI Semra NAVRUZ , BILICI Saniye
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT Objective: This study was carried out to determine the nutritional status of shift-working female nurses at a university hospital in Ankara, Turkey. Methods: A total of 110 volunteer female nurses (n=56 control group, n=54 study group) were included in the study. A questionnaire with a three day food record collected the study data. Results: The mean daily energy intake of the study group was higher than that of the control group (1756±659 kcal versus 1694±431 kcal, p>0.05). While the carbohydrate intake (196.3±85.5 g versus 185.9±54.7 g) and fat intake (79.5±29.5 g versus 77.1±22.6 g) were higher in the study group, the protein intake was higher in the control group (59.4±17.6 g versus 57.6±21.6 g). The mean iron intake was statistically higher in the control group (10.6±2.9 mg versus 10.0±4.0 mg, p<0.05). Conclusion: To improve night shift workers' performance and nutritional status it is important to provide accessible, healthy, and quality food services.
Is pomegranate peels infusion effective for disinfection of toothbrushes?
Authors: FREIRE Priscila Lima de Luna , CAMPOS Priscila Hernández , CARVALHO Fabíola Galbiatti , RODRIGUES Jonas Almeida , DINIZ Michele Baffi
Published: August 2016

Abstract Introduction Methods of decontamination or sanitization of toothbrushes have been questioned. Objective This study assessed the effectiveness of pomegranate peels infusion as a disinfectant of toothbrushes against Streptococcus mutans. Material and method A sample of 16 schoolchildren aged between 7 and 9 years performed brushing 5 days/week, with a careful brushing once a day. After each day of brushing, the toothbrushes were washed and sprayed with one disinfectant solution. This procedure was repeated for 4 weeks using one of the different solutions per week: distilled water (G1; negative control), pomegranate (Punica granatum Linn) peels infusion (G2), 1% sodium hypochlorite (G3) and 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate (G4). After the fifth day, toothbrushes were collected for laboratory analysis. Toothbrushes heads were subjected to agitation in saline dilution of 10–1, 10–2,10–3, and 25 μL of each dilution were seeded in mitis salivarius agar culture medium for S. mutans colony-forming unit (CFU) counting. One calibrated examiner (Kappa = 0.91) performed the CFU (mL–1 × 104) counts. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn Multiple Comparison tests were used at a significance level of 5%. Result G1 presented the highest number of CFU (3.9 ± 8.4), followed by G2 (3.2 ± 4.0). No S. mutans growth was observed in G3 and G4. There was no statistically significant difference between G1 and G2 and between G3 and G4 (p>0.05). Conclusion Pomegranate infusion was completely ineffective for the disinfection of toothbrushes against S. mutans when compared with 1% sodium hypochlorite and 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate solutions.
Zulliger (CS) in Assessing the Relational Maturity of Children
Authors: Villemor-Amaral Anna Elisa , Vieira Philipe Gomes
Published: August 2016

Abstract Relational maturity is an important aspect to be considered in the evaluation of children. Its development in children is considered related to sex and chronological age. The present study aimed to seek evidence of validity for the Zulliger test (Comprehensive System - CS) in the evaluation of maturity for interpersonal relationships in children. A total of 566 children, both sexes, of which 52.8% were girls, were submitted to the Zulliger test (CS). For comparison according to age, a subsample was extracted, composed of two groups of six and 12-year-olds, totaling 115 children. The analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the variables H, (H), A, Ad, (A), M, FC and AG. Results show findings in favor of using the Zulliger test (CS) in the evaluation of maturity for interpersonal relationships in children.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of an Internet-based continuing education program on pharmacy-based minor ailment management: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Obreli-Neto Paulo Roque , Guidoni Camilo Molino , Baldoni André de Oliveira , Marusic Srecko , Castedalli Gilson , Lahoud Yesmin Marie , Soares Christian Franco , Pereira Leonardo Régis Leira
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of an internet-based continuing education (CE) program on pharmacy-based minor ailment schemes (PMASs). A controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted in community pharmacies in Brazil. Community pharmacists (CPs) were enrolled in two groups: intervention (n = 61) and control (n = 60). CPs who were enrolled to the intervention group participated in an Internet-based CE program. CPs in the control group received no educational intervention. We evaluated participant perception, learning outcomes, and practice performance. Learner satisfaction with the CE program was high for every point evaluated (mean ± standard deviation = 4.2 ± 0.4). Posttest learner outcome scores and practice performance in the intervention group after the conclusion of the CE program significantly improved compared with pretest scores (p < 0.001) and were significantly better compared with the control group (p < 0.001). The present Internet-based CE program is a viable educational strategy for improving participant perception, learning outcomes, and practice performance in PMASs.
Gender differences in biochemical markers and oxidative stress of rats after 28 days oral exposure to a mixture used for weight loss containing p-synephrine, ephedrine, salicin, and caffeine
Authors: Schmitt Gabriela Cristina , Arbo Marcelo Dutra , Lorensi Andréia Louise , Jacques Ana Laura Bemvenuti , Nascimento Sabrina Nunes do , Mariotti Kristiane de Cássia , Garcia Solange Cristina , Dallegrave Eliane , Leal Mirna Bainy , Limberger Renata Pereira
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT The association of p-synephrine, ephedrine, salicin, and caffeine in dietary supplements and weight loss products is very common worldwide, even though ephedrine has been prohibited in many countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate a 28-day oral exposure toxicity profile of p-synephrine, ephedrine, salicin, and caffeine mixture (10:4:6:80 w/w respectively) in male and female Wistar rats. Body weight and signs of toxicity, morbidity, and mortality were observed daily. After 28 days, animals were euthanized and blood collected for hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress evaluation. No clinical signs of toxicity, significant weight loss or deaths occurred, nor were there any significant alterations in hematological parameters. Biochemical and oxidative stress biomarkers showed lipid peroxidation, and hepatic and renal damage (p < 0.05; ANOVA/Bonferroni) in male rats (100 and 150 mg/kg) and a reduction (p < 0.05; ANOVA/Bonferroni) in glutathione (GSH) levels in all male groups. Female groups displayed no indications of oxidative stress or biochemical alterations. The different toxicity profile displayed by male and female rats suggests a hormonal influence on mixture effects. Results demonstrated that the tested mixture can alter oxidative status and promote renal and hepatic damages.