bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Therapies on Pancreatic β-cell Dysfunction: Results from in Vitro and in Vivo Studies
Authors: Anastasiou Ioanna A. , Eleftheriadou Ioanna , Tentolouris Anastasios , Koliaki Chrysi , Kosta Ourania A. , Tentolouris Nikolaos
Published: May 2020

Background:

Oxidative stress is a hallmark of many diseases. A growing body of
evidence suggests that hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress plays an important role in pancreatic
β-cells dysfunction and apoptosis, as well as in the development and progression of
diabetic complications. Considering the vulnerability of pancreatic β-cells to oxidative damage,
the induction of endogenous antioxidant enzymes or exogenous antioxidant administration
has been proposed to protect pancreatic β-cells from damage.

Objectives:

The present review aims to provide evidence of the effect of oxidative stress and
antioxidant therapies on pancreatic β-cell function, based on in vitro and in vivo studies.

Methods:

The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched to retrieve available data.

Results:

Due to poor endogenous antioxidant mechanisms, pancreatic β-cells are extremely
sensitive to Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). Many natural extracts have been tested in vitro
in pancreatic β-cell lines in terms of their antioxidant and diabetes mellitus ameliorating effects,
and the majority of them have shown a dose-dependent protective role. On the other
hand, there is relatively limited evidence regarding the in vitro antioxidant effects of antidiabetic
drugs on pancreatic β -cells. Concerning in vivo studies, several natural extracts have
shown beneficial effects in the setting of diabetes by decreasing blood glucose and lipid levels,
increasing insulin sensitivity, and by up-regulating intrinsic antioxidant enzyme activity.
However, there is limited evidence obtained from in vivo studies regarding antidiabetic drugs.

Conclusion:

Antioxidants hold promise for developing strategies aimed at the prevention or
treatment of diabetes mellitus associated with pancreatic β-cells dysfunction, as supported by
in vitro and in vivo studies. However, more in vitro studies are required for drugs.
Performance Evaluation of Docking Programs- Glide, GOLD, AutoDock & SurflexDock, Using Free Energy Perturbation Reference Data: A Case Study of Fructose-1, 6-bisphosphatase-AMP Analogs
Authors: Reddy K. Kumar , Rathore R.S. , Srujana P. , Burri R.R. , Reddy C. Ravikumar , Sumakanth M. , Reddanna Pallu , Reddy M. Rami
Published: May 2020

Background:

The accurate ranking of analogs of lead molecules with respect to their estimated
binding free energies to drug targets remains highly challenging in molecular docking due to
small relative differences in their free energy values.

Methods:

Free energy perturbation (FEP) method, which provides the most accurate relative binding
free energy values were earlier used to calculate free energies of many ligands for several important
drug targets including Fructose-1,6-BisphosPhatase (FBPase). The availability of abundant structural
and experimental binding affinity data for FBPase inhibitors provided an ideal system to evaluate four
widely used docking programs, AutoDock, Glide, GOLD and SurflexDock, distinct from earlier comparative
evaluation studies.

Results:

The analyses suggested that, considering various parameters such as docking pose, scoring
and ranking accuracy, sensitivity analysis and newly introduced relative ranking score, Glide provided
reasonably consistent results in all respects for the system studied in the present work. Whereas GOLD
and AutoDock also demonstrated better performance, AutoDock results were found to be significantly
superior in terms of scoring accuracy compared to the rest.

Conclusion:

Present analysis serves as a useful guide for researchers working in the field of lead optimization
and for developers in upgradation of the docking programs.
A Pilot Study of the Rehabilitation Services Provided for Patients with Dysphagia in Medical Settings in Jordan
Authors: Darawsheh Wesam B. , Alaraifi Jehad , Natour Yaser
Published: May 2020

Services provided for dysphaiga conditions are poorly investigated in Jordan. The aim of this study was to explore the rehabilitation services provided to patients with dysphagia in medical settings in Jordan. Data were collected from public and private hospitals, hearing and speech centres, and rehabilitation centres located in Amman province. Thirty-eight participants (16 patients and 22 professionals from various disciplines) were interviewed. There was limited knowledge about dysphagia among healthcare professionals. The provision of rehabilitation services was minimal and secondary to the provision of medical services. Clinical pathways and guidelines need to be devised to organize the work of professionals involved in the management of dysphagia.
Procesos legales y tributarios de las mipymes del sector de confecciones de la ciudad de Ocaña
Authors: Quintero-Quintero Wilder , Peñaranda-Peñaranda Marta Milena , Rodríguez-Castilla Magda Mildred
Published: May 2020

Las Mipymes, representan alrededor del 90% de las empresas existentes a nivel global, emplean el 50% de la mano de obra y participan en la creación del 50% de PIB mundial (Valdés & Sánchez, 2012), de igual manera según el Diario Económico (Portafolio, 2017), en Colombia, el 99,5% de las unidades de explotación económicas son Mipymes, lo que las convierte en el principal cimiento de la actividad productiva nacional; Así como también la Revista (Dinero, 2017) establece que “hoy en día las Mipymes generan el 80% del empleo en el país, lo que demuestra la importancia de trabajar por el desarrollo de estas empresas”. En la ciudad de Ocaña y su área de influencia las Microempresas y las  pequeñas y medianas empresas “Mipymes” juegan un papel importante puesto que se constituye en la base de la economía local. Es así, como el sector empresarial de la ciudad de Ocaña Norte de Santander está constituido por 3.358 establecimientos de comercio, donde pertenece el sector de las confecciones el cual está constituido por “Mipymes” quienes desarrollan dentro de su objeto social la elaboración de prendas de vestir para dama, caballeros y niños, estas empresas  en gran proporción no se encuentran legalmente constituidas como sociedades, perteneciendo a la informalidad. Teniendo en cuenta lo expuesto anteriormente el comerciante del sector de confecciones de la Ciudad de Ocaña Norte de Santander no tienen la cultura de la organización y control de las actividades que realizan, por esta razón no cuentan con estados financieros que les permitan conocer la realidad económica de sus actividades.
Medición de emisiones atmosféricas en hornos a cielo abierto en el municipio de Ocaña, Norte de Santander
Authors: Guerrero-Gómez Gustavo , Espinel-Blanco Edwin , Flórez-Solano Eder Norberto
Published: May 2020

Se hizo una relación de las empresas ladrilleras dedicadas a la producción de materiales cerámicos en el municipio de Ocaña, identificando tipo de horno, capacidad y producción. Luego se seleccionó una muestra de siete empresas ladrilleras, a las que se les practicó un muestreo isocinético donde se determinó la concentración de emisiones reguladas por la resolución 909 de junio de 2008 (porcentajes de oxígeno, monóxido de carbono, dióxido de carbono y óxido de nitrógeno),finalmente se hace un análisis del cumplimiento  de los requisitos establecidos en la normativa ambiental vigente para emisión por fuentes fijas en las ladrilleras a los hornos en mención ,de lo que se establece que las empresas seleccionadas cumplen con los requisitos establecidos en la normatividad ambiental Colombiana.
Métodos de estudio y rendimiento académico en los estudiantes de primer semestre de contaduría pública de la UFPS seccional Ocaña, mediante la propuesta de Fernandez Pozar
Authors: Quintana-Arévalo Sandra Olimpia , Numa-Numa Javier , García-León Ricardo Andrés
Published: May 2020

La presente investigación buscó mediante la aplicación del Inventario de Hábitos de Estudio de F.F. Pozar (IHE) describir los hábitos de estudio de los estudiantes de contaduría pública al inicio de su carrera universitaria (I semestre) y después de un año de estudio en  la universidad Francisco de Paula Santander Ocaña, asimismo se identificó en cada estudiante el rendimiento académico de cada semestre, a través del promedio ponderado del semestre, teniendo en cuenta los valores que se correlacionaron con los resultados de los estudiantes en el IHE; por otra parte, se caracterizaron los métodos de estudio usados por los estudiantes a través de un cuestionario abierto que permitió describir y conocer  la capacidad instalada en los estudiantes en relación a su conducta de estudio.  El diseño metodológico utilizado es de tipo cuantitativo correlacional, el cual tiene como propósito mostrar o examinar la relación entre variables o resultados que se puedan presentar entre las variables estudiadas en esta investigación en unos momentos determinados, a través de la aplicación del Inventario de Hábitos de Estudio (IHE) y su relación con el rendimiento académico. Los resultados demostraron que no existe relación entre el inventario y el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes, debido a que las tecnologías,  la sociedad y otros factores  han  influenciado en los cambios de los hábitos de estudio.
Influencia del tipo de contratación en el clima organizacional: una evidencia empírica en la universidad
Authors: Coronel Coronel Doralba , Santiago Serna Yenifer Tatiana , Arévalo Ascanio José Gregorio
Published: May 2020

Este artículo tiene como objetivo presentar algunos de los resultados obtenidos en el proyecto titulado “Influencia del tipo de contratación en el clima organizacional del área administrativa de la Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander Ocaña”, direccionados fundamentalmente hacia la medición del clima laboral en la institución con relación a las dimensiones: autonomía, cohesión, confianza, presión, apoyo, reconocimiento, equidad e innovación. La metodología utilizada se basó en un estudio cuantitativo por medio de la aplicación de encuestas individuales que permitieron el análisis y la presentación de los resultados.
Determinación de los factores que influyen en la adherencia al tratamiento en la diabetes mellitus tipo 2, hospital Luis Vernaza, periodo 2014-2015
Authors: Arosemena Marilyn Auxiliadora , Sánchez Armijos Julizza , Tettamanti Miranda Daniel , Vásquez Cedeño Diego , Navarro Chávez Manuel
Published: May 2020

Introducción: los pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 de la consulta externa de endocrinología del hospital Luis Vernaza de Guayaquil, tienen dificultad para ser adherentes al tratamiento. Objetivo: determinar el porcentaje de pacientes no adherentes y cuáles son los factores más influyentes en la no adherencia al tratamiento farmacéutico y no farmacéutico. Metodología: siguiendo la Declaración de Helsinki, se presenta un estudio epidemiológico, descriptivo, analítico, observacional de corte transversal de 209 diabéticos tipo 2, realizado durante 6 meses, en la consulta externa de Endocrinología del hospital Luis Vernaza. Los pacientes llenaron un cuestionario sobre el control de diabetes y la calidad de vida. Se registraron las características demográficas y clínicas cuantitativas mediante estadística descriptiva básica y las variables cualitativas, mediante frecuencias relativas y porcentajes. La adherencia al tratamiento se consideró positiva si los pacientes cumplían cuatro criterios: ejercicio, dieta, conocimiento sobre la enfermedad y no olvidar de tomar la medicación. La ausencia de uno o más de esos criterios calificaba como no adherente. Resultados: de los 209 pacientes diabéticos, hubo 81% no adherentes y 19% adherentes al tratamiento que recibían. Los factores determinantes de la no adherencia al tratamiento: no hacer dieta (p:0,002), olvidar tomar el medicamento (p:0,004) y recibir antidiabéticos orales (p:0.004). La dieta OR>20, olvidar de tomar la medicación OR<0.01 y tomar antidiabéticos orales OR 0.648. Conclusión: las variables determinantes para la no adherencia al tratamiento en los diabéticos son: no hacer dieta, olvidar tomar medicación y tener tratamiento con antidiabéticos orales. La adherencia en los pacientes atendidos en el hospital Luis Vernaza es muy baja.
Modos de troca cognitiva no campo
Authors: Camargo Alessandro Mancio de
Published: May 2020

Este artigo discute como no agrossistema a sustentabilidade deveria se aproximar da equitatividade (distribuição justa do rendimento) em vez de ser um preposto da produtividade no campo. Para isso, o trabalho aponta a oportunidade de aproveitar a emergência da agricultura digital para aproximar o agrossistema de diferentes modos de troca, tais como a Tecnologia de Registro Distribuído (dlt, na sigla em inglês). Essa iniciativa pode organizar e gerenciar o agrossistema integrando diversos interesses da condição humana e dos ecossistemas, os quais podem operar em consonância com os novos modelos de negócios e plataformas digitais.Palavras-chave: Sustentabilidade. Equitatividade. Agrossistema digital.
Demandas tecnológicas na agricultura urbana intensiva
Authors: Bliska Júnior Antonio , Bliska Flávia Maria de Mello , Mary Wellington
Published: May 2020

Nos últimos 20 anos cresce no mundo todo o interesse pela produção agrícola, para fins alimentícios ou não, em áreas urbanas ou periurbanas – Agricultura Urbana. Contribuem para esse movimento a preocupação da sociedade e dos formuladores de políticas públicas de desenvolvimento local e regional com a ocupação de espaços ociosos, com a ampliação de áreas verdes, mitigação de enchentes e de ilhas de calor nas metrópoles, com a intensificação da demanda de alimentos e com as mudanças no modo de produzir e consumir alimentos saudáveis e funcionais. Aos benefícios vinculados ao planejamento da ocupação urbana e ao bem-estar da população somam-se benefícios socioeconômicos, como a utilização de mão de obra e insumos disponíveis no entorno ou dentro da área urbana e a redução dos custos de logística mediante a proximidade entre produtores e consumidores e a consequente redução no uso de combustíveis fósseis, contribuindo para a sustentabilidade do sistema produtivo. A Agricultura Urbana compreende alimentos de origem vegetal ou animal, sejam produzidos de forma convencional, sofisticada ou exclusiva (como brotos, micro verdes e mini hortaliças), plantas ornamentais e para extração de fármacos. A produção vegetal pode ocorrer tanto ao ar livre como em ambientes protegidos, no solo ou por meio do cultivo intensivo, com ou sem substratos, com ou sem luz artificial, ou ainda com diferentes níveis de automação e controle ambiental, através do monitoramento de temperatura e uso desumidificadores para manutenção da sanidade vegetal. Além disso, ela precisa atentar à economia de água e insumos, para obter maior eficiência energética. A Agricultura Urbana também pode proporcionar maior contato das pessoas com a natureza e incorporar atividades educacionais e terapêuticas. Porém, a transferência dos sistemas de produção agrícola do campo para a área urbana pode exigir soluções tecnológicas específicas, com diferentes níveis de complexidade e estratégias competitivas e organizacionais, visando à sustentabilidade dos novos modelos de negócio (Indústria 4.0) e de planejamento urbano. Por conseguinte, o objeto deste artigo é identificar as demandas tecnológicas da agricultura urbana, quanto à produção intensiva de plantas em ambientes altamente controlados, tendo em vista a eficiência do sistema produtivo, quanto à sua produtividade, qualidade e rentabilidade, por meio de análise diagnóstica, através de dados secundários e entrevistas com agentes-chave na cadeia produtiva.Palavras-chave: Inovações tecnológicas. Prospecção de demandas. Agricultura urbana.
Entrevista com Maria Fernanda Moura
Authors: Camargo Alessandro Mancio de
Published: May 2020

Bacharel em Estatística pela Universidade Estadual de Campinas (1987), mestre em engenharia de software pela Universidade Estadual de Campinas (1992) e doutora em Ciência da Computação pela Universidade de São Paulo (2009), Maria Fernanda Moura é pesquisadora da Embrapa Informática Agropecuária desde agosto de 1989. Nessa posição, a pesquisadora pôde vivenciar muito o desenvolvimento de software científico e de gerenciamento de software e de dados voltados para agricultura.
Process analytical technology tools for process control of roller compaction in solid pharmaceuticals manufacturing
Authors: Vovko Aleša Dular , Vrečer Franc
Published: May 2020

This article presents an overview of using process analytical technology in monitoring the roller compaction process. In the past two decades, near-infrared spectroscopy, near-infrared spectroscopy coupled with chemical imaging, microwave resonance technology, thermal effusivity and various particle imaging techniques have been used for developing at-, off-, on- and in-line models for predicting critical quality attributes of ribbons and subsequent granules and tablets. The common goal of all these methods is improved process understanding and process control, and thus improved production of high-quality products. This article reviews the work of several researchers in this field, comparing and critically evaluating their achievements.
Current Swine Respiratory Diseases Morphology in Intensive Swine Production in Serbia
Authors: Prodanov-Radulović Jasna , Vučićević Ivana , Polaček Vladimir , Aleksić-Kovačević Sanja
Published: May 2020

Swine respiratory diseases represent one of the most frequent health issues in pig production worldwide. Despite the great progress that has been made in the field of diagnostics, control and prophylaxis, respiratory diseases still remain the most challenging health problem in modern commercial pig production. The list of infectious agents that cause respiratory diseases in swine is extensive and includes both, bacterial and viral pathogens. In Serbia, more than fifteen years after the introduction of modern vaccines, the list of bacterial pathogens related to swine respiratory infections still include Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Haemophilus parasuis and Pasteurella multocida. On the other hand, most commonly involved viral pathogens are Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus, Swine influenza virus, Porcine circovirus type 2 and Pseudorabies virus. The morphological features of pneumonia where several agents are involved, depend on the predominant etiological agent. Expanding knowledge of the main pathogens associated with swine respiratory diseases and the effects of their interactions on the disease outcome is important for further investigations of lung diseases and implementation of control strategies in commercial pig populations in Serbia. This review discusses the latest findings on swine respiratory disease and current trends in Serbian pig production.
Analogue Modelling of Flow Patterns in Bobbin Friction Stir Welding by the Dark-Field/Bright-Field Illumination Method
Authors: Tamadon A. , Pons D. J. , Clucas D.
Published: May 2020

The flow-inducing effect of the bobbin-tool features (tri-flat pin and scrolled shoulder) were replicated by a simple analogue model for aluminium welds by layered plasticine samples. Flow patterns of the weld zone were clarified by a typical stereomicroscopy instrument assisted by dark-field/bright-field illumination. The effects of the pin features, specifically threads and flats in centre of bond zone and scrolled shoulder in sides of stirred zone, were identified. This study shows that internal flow features for BFSW welds is transferable from the friction stir welding process to the functional metal forming processes such where the shearing can extensively affect the microstructure. The similarity between the flow pattern of the provided aluminium samples and the plasticine analogue can validate the accuracy of the flow model presented in this work.
Effects of Co2 and Nd:YAG Laser Remelting of the Ti6Al4V Alloy on the Surface Quality and Residual Stresses
Authors: Jażdżewska M.
Published: May 2020

The titanium alloys are materials susceptible to tribological wear and the laser treatment can be applied in surface treatment processes to obtain for example higher hardness level. From the other side, it is important to take into consideration, that hardness increase that can be connected with cracks. The aim of this research was to investigate the effects of different lasers and the process parameters on the form and level of residual stresses in the Ti6Al4V alloy, which determine the initiation and propagation of cracking. Two lasers were used, the CO2 and Nd:YAG lasers. The specimens were remelted in liquid nitrogen, water or calm air at different pre-heating temperature. The different laser power and scan rates were applied. The increase in energy density increased the number of cracks, the change of an environment and pre-heating affected alo the surface cracking. The cracks observed after remelting with Nd:YAG laser were longer than those observed after treatment with CO2 laser. The compressive stresses after the CO2 laser treatment, and tensile stresses after treatment with the Nd:YAG laser, were found. The appearance of cracks was attributed to an excessive energy density. The different distribution of heat energy inside and around the laser tracks was discussed as the origin of presence either tensile or compressive stresses in the alloy treated with different lasers.
Allelopathic activity of essential oil extracts from Artemisia herba-alba Asso. on seed and seedling germination of weed and wheat crops
Authors: Benarab Hadouda , Fenni Mohamed , Louadj Yacine , Boukhabti Habiba , Ramdani Messaoud
Published: May 2020

The allelopathic potential of essential oil extracts from Artemisia herba-alba Asso. was assessed on seed germination of nine weeds and two wheat varieties. The samples were collected from El-Rasfa région (Sétif, Algeria). The essential oil was extracted using hydrodistillation of aerial part and characterized using gaz chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy. The bioassays with organic solvent (ethanol) were tested using four different concentrations (0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 µl/ml of oil/ethanol) on seed and seedling growth of the nine weeds and two wheat varieties. The yield obtained is 1.19%, and 36 compound had been identified. The main components are: camphor (28.58%), cis-thujone (22.03%), eucalyptol (11.65%) and trans-thujone (7.03%). The results of bioassays show that essential oil extracts has a significant effect on seed germination and seedling growth of the major weed tested and two wheat varieties. In conclusion, this study shows that the essential oil tested has an interesting allelopathic potential.
Study the Effect of Cu Doping on Optical and Structural Properties of NiO Thin Films
Authors: Benramache Said , Benhaoua Boubaker , Guezzoun Hanane
Published: May 2020

In this work, copper doped nickel oxide as the thin films have been elaborated by a spin coating method, the nickel chloride hexahydrate (0.8M) and copper (II) chloride dehydrate (Cu/Ni = 0, 2.15, 4.3, 8.6 and 12.9 At.%) were used to prepare the Cu doped NiO thin films. The Cu doped NiO thin films were heated at a crystallization temperature of 600 °C with 2 h. The obtained thin films by spin coater method have a film thickness in the order of 400 nm. The prepared Cu doped NiO thin films have a polycrystalline with cubic structure (200) peak was observed. The optical property shows that the prepared thin films have a transmittance of about 70 %. The Cu doped NiO thin films have minimum bandgap energy is 3.85 eV at 12.9 at.%, the thin film deposited at 8.6 at.% has the highest value of Urbach energy is 425 meV. The Cu doped NiO thin films have a high electrical conductivity of 8.6 at% it is 7 (Ω.cm)−1. The prepared Cu doped NiO thin film was suitable for gas sensing applications due to the existing phase and higher electrical conductivity.
New Insights Into the Genesis of the “Poznań Clays” – Upper Neogene of Poland
Authors: Maciaszek Piotr , Chomiak Lilianna , Urbański Paweł , Widera Marek
Published: May 2020

The present study focuses on the upper Neogene deposits, called the “Poznań Clays”, that cover more than 75,000 km2 of Poland. They are situated between the first mid- Polish lignite seam and the glaciogenic deposits of the Pleistocene age. Lithostratigraphically, the “Poznań Clays” belong to the uppermost portion of the lignite-bearing Grey Clays Member and the whole Wielkopolska Member (Poznań Formation). The examined fine-grained sediments include mud-rich floodplain deposits with palaeosol remnants and large sandy-muddy or muddy palaeochannel bodies. Therefore, taking into account facies analysis, cross-sectional geometry, and the planform of the palaeochannels, it can be stated that the “Poznań Clays” formed in the environment of a late Neogene anastomosing river.
Spatial Development of Regensburg/Ratyzbona Towards the City of "Green" Housing Estates
Authors: Wojtyszyn Bogusław
Published: May 2020

This article raises important issues related to global threats to the urban environment and methods of its protection on a scale from urban planning to architectural design. The research undertaken in this respect was conducted on the selected medium-sized German city of Regensburg/Ratyzbona. This is a city that has for many years been implementing a spatial development policy in line with the principles of sustainable development. The research results obtained present very interesting design solutions for the way they have been implemented in order to constantly improve the ecological effect of urban development. The basic element strongly associated with the sustainable development of Regensburg's buildings is its Urban Greenery System that takes into account the natural and cultural heritage of the city and its suburban areas. This system is, as the research has shown, legally protected and, in a model-based way, expanded both on the scale of the city and of each housing estate. The presented results of research on this type of ecological project also relate to pilot analyses of the construction projects of the “green” Burgweiting-Mitte housing estate and reconstruction together with the restoration of the historic “green” Ganghofersiedlung housing estate.
A batch and cloud point extraction kinetic spectrophotometric method for determining trace and ultra trace amounts of Benzodiazepine drugs (Clonazepam and Nitrazepam) in pure and pharmaceutical preparations
Authors: Mahdi Muna Iskandar , Kadhim Kassim Hassan
Published: May 2020

Utilizing the batch Diazotization coupling reaction and the cloud point extraction kinetic spectrophotometric method, trace and Ultra trace amounts from reducing Nitrazepam and Clonazepam were evaluated by way of using 2,5-dimethoxyaniline as a new Chromogenic reagent to give colored products (red) in acidic medium which have a maximum absorption at 500 and 502 nm, respectively. In the work, the analytical data of batch and cloud point for Nitrazepam and Clonazepam depended on initial rate and fixation time. This involved concentrations of (0,3-9), (0.05-1.2), (0.5-10) and (0.025-1) µg mL−1, as well as molar absorptivity of (3.8×104), (3.1×105) (3.39×104) and (3.47×105) L mol−1 cm−1. According to our results, Sandall’s sensitivity were (0.0074), (0.0009), (0.0092) and (0.0009) µg cm−2, while detection limits were (0.055) and (0.069) µg mL−1, (8.4) and (8.5) ng mL−1. In addition, the measurements enrichment factors were (33.33) and (50), while preconcentration factors were (8) and (9.9), respectively. The reaction of Nitrazepam and Clonazepam with 2,5-dimethoxyaniline were a pseudo first order according to kinetic studies. The proposed methods are not affected by existence of excipients so the methods can be applied successfully for determination of Nitrazepam and Clonazepam in pharmaceutical preparations.
The role of hydrogen sulfide in gastrointestinal tract functioning (review)
Authors: Voloshchuk Natalia , Taran Illіa , Pashynska Olga , Melnyk Andrii , Magdebura Savva
Published: May 2020

Despite a fairly large amount of literature data about the involvement of hydrogen sulfide in physiological and pathophysiological processes, its role in gastrointestinal tract functioning has not been studied sufficiently. This review systematizes and generalizes the mechanisms of H2S-associated regulation of gastrointestinal secretion and motility on the basis of literature sources processing and own research results. We analysed world professional literature and sources in Google Scholar, PubMed, MedLine, Embase, Cochrane, and data from more than 50 articles and books on the problem were processed in the article. This review gives a synopsis of the H2S function in the regulation of the secretory and motor-evacuation function, and in stimulating the reparative properties of the digestive tract, and indicates the main mechanisms.
Assessment of antidepressant and sedative-hypnotic activities of methanolic crude extracts of Stephania japonica (Thunb.) Miers. whole plants
Authors: Dhar Ananta Sutra , Rahman Mahbubur , Rafe Md. Rajdoula , Molla Md. Islam
Published: May 2020

In this study, methanolic crude extracts of Stephania japonica (Thunb.) Miers. (MESJ) whole plants were examined for possible antidepressant and sedative-hypnotic activities. Herein, the forced swimming test and tail suspension test were conducted to explore the antidepressant activity. In addition, the open field test and hole-board test were performed to evaluate the sedative-hypnotic activities. In the acute toxicity test, the MESJ ensured safety up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg, p.o. The experimental doses were 100 and 200 mg/kg p.o. In both the forced swimming test and tail suspension test, the extract significantly (p<0.01 and p<0.05) inhibited immobility time in a dose dependent manner compared to the control. These results (13.56-26.46% inhibition) indicate the mild antidepressant activity of MESJ compared to nortriptyline (60.4-64.6% inhibition). The open field test and hole-board test demonstrated the dose dependent significant (p<0.001, p<0.01 and p<0.05) and moderate sedative-hypnotic activities of the extract compared to diazepam. However, these activities were found to gradually decrease after 60 min in the open field test and must be considered as short-term activities, compared to diazepam. It can be claimed that the methanolic crude extract of Stephania japonica possesses mild antidepressant and moderate but short-term sedative-hypnotic activities.
Academic Staff in Engineering and the Built Environment at Durban University of Technology: A Baseline Study of Gender Equality
Authors: Cooke Lesley Anne , Jackson Hester , Armoed Zakheeya
Published: May 2020

The research reported in this paper is part of a large Personalised Engineering Education South Africa III Project that involves eight universities across Europe and South Africa. One of the foci of the project is around gender equality in engineering education. The literature on Women in Science, Engineering and Technology (STEM) in general is briefly reviewed. Attention then shifts to gender equality in STEM, academia, and engineering education more specifically. Management Information data from 2014 to 2018 were analysed to establish a baseline for the number and the rank of female staff in seven academic departments in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (EBE) at Durban University of Technology (DUT). The results show that there is low representation of female staff in the selected academic departments. Female staff are not represented in the higher academic ranks such as Associate or Full Professors. These findings resonate with other published research. This baseline study will be used to further investigate the experiences of women in EBE at DUT.
The South African Technical and Vocational Education and Training System from a German Perspective
Authors: Kuehn Martin
Published: May 2020

This paper provides information about the South African Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system from a German perspective as well as about South-African - German cooperation in this system gathered by literature reviews.

Due to a shift in South Africa’s economy towards the service sector, the existing skills composition does not fit the needs anymore and may hinder further development. Foreign and local companies have a high demand for skilled workers.

A short introduction to the TVET system is provided and challenges are pointed out. Furthermore the role of the Skills Education Training Authorities in TVET is described. Finally, the current state of South African - German cooperation in the TVET sector including a selection of projects on different levels involving German and South African institutions is outlined.
Collaborative Service-Learning Partnerships between Government, Community and University for Implementing Social Change
Authors: Scheepers Jacqueline
Published: May 2020

Community Engagement, the third pillar of Higher Education, requires South African universities to engage in projects that benefit society. Service-Learning, a form of community engagement, is a powerful pedagogical tool that lends itself to the enrichment of diversity and conceptualisation of innovative curriculum activities towards the positive transformation of students, academic staff and the broader society. Meaningful government and community partnerships are assets for universities who strive for relevant engagement with communities. In Service-Learning triad partnerships, the government, university and community stakeholders collaboratively conceptualise Service-Learning projects. These partnerships are composed of representatives from diverse institutional cultures and individual backgrounds. Through Participatory Action Research (PAR), the systems approach is applied to understand and critically examine the interconnectedness between the aims and objectives of government, community and the university. Service-Learning partnerships can be viewed as a powerful tool for actualizing community development strategies; moving these from policy to implementation in communities. This paper encourages universities to build meaningful partnerships with external stakeholders through service-learning projects. By engaging actively with their partners, universities could strengthen their Service-Learning initiatives and partnerships.
Selected Problems of an Entrepreneurial University - a Theoretical Perspective
Authors: Czerniachowicz Barbara , Wieczorek-Szymańska Anna
Published: May 2020

The aim of the paper is to identify university’s activities and characteristics that enable it to reorient itself towards the idea of an entrepreneurial university. In the modern world, universities have an additional important role, that is, the need to adopt entrepreneurial strategies without disrupting the quality of teaching and research. First of all, the authors discuss the idea of entrepreneurship and focus mainly on academic entrepreneurship. The idea of entrepreneurship is becoming more and more desirable in a modern organization thus also in a university. The new role of the university is to create the entrepreneurial ideas and attitudes among students and all university employees, as well as to initiate entrepreneurial activities in academic institutions. It is also necessary to plan entrepreneurial university architecture. The article focuses on presenting the theoretical foundations of the academic entrepreneurship process to finally make a synthetic comparison of the features of a traditional university and an entrepreneurial university. The main research question of the article is: In which dimensions the idea of an entrepreneurial university can lead to the development of the university?

The result of the research is a new combination of attributes and characteristics of an enterprising university and new directions of university’s development. By this paper the authors take part in the discussion about the implementation of the idea of entrepreneurship in contemporary university management.
Hazards of the Road Transportation of Hazardous Materials
Authors: Stolecka Katarzyna
Published: May 2020

A lot of substances and items are transported by road, sea, rail and air every day. The biggest hazard is created by the transportation of hazardous substances with flammable, caustic or toxic properties. The hazard level increases if such substances are transported through densely populated areas. Traffic intensity, the technical condition of vehicles, drivers’ errors or ignorance and non-compliance with legal regulations are examples of factors that can lead to potential failures in the transport sector. Accidents can cause an uncontrolled release of dangerous gases or liquids, resulting e.g. in environmental degradation or a hazard to humans. The article presents the issues related to the hazards presented by road transportation of hazardous materials. Examples are shown of potential effects of accidents and hazard zones arising due to a release of selected hazardous substances, such as chlorine, ammonia, petrol, diesel oil or LPG.
Transforming Paradigms of Sustainable Transcultural Adult Education
Authors: Franzenburg Geert
Published: May 2020

Transcultural adult education combines different cultures by emphasizing different generations, milieus, and interests, and, thus, facilitates a sustainable, integrated, ethical and programmatic framework for the future, following the global and European educational agenda (UNESCO, GRUNDVIG). In this regard, biographical learning offers, as a particular transcultural coping strategy, opportunities for transformation, remembrance and experiences. The study, therefore, focuses on such kinds of adult education as a core element, particularly of transcultural adult education, which facilitates interpreting meanings within social interactions. It also facilitates in the confrontation with a plural environment according to the situation, whereby past, present and future form a dynamic unity through the direct interest in the opposite.
Potential-Focused Learning in Sustainable Schools
Authors: Lueger Günter , Wurzrainer Andreas
Published: May 2020

Potential-Focused Learning is based on constructivist concepts and concentrates on the ‘patterns of construction of learning relevant realities’ and the ‘self-organisation’ of individuals and systems. On the basis of constructivism we will present in this article a new dynamic concept of potentials and ‘positive differences’ that expand the perception of teachers and students with regards to favourable learning steps and thus their scope of action. The approaches of potential-focused learning are theoretically underpinned throughout this article. The effects of dynamic concepts on teaching design and the prerequisites for potential-focused learning are discussed by describing the essential elements of learning designs in potential-oriented teaching such as organisational frameworks, potential-focused performance assessment and the meaningful task development of learners. First empirical studies show the positive effects of potential-oriented teaching on ‘autonomy’ and ‘intrinsic motivation’ of learners.
A Capability Approach to Entrepreneurship Education: The Sprouting Entrepreneurs Programme in Rural South African Schools
Authors: Forcher-Mayr Matthias , Mahlknecht Sabine
Published: May 2020

Sprouting Entrepreneurs is a three-year teaching programme for rural primary and secondary schools that focuses on entrepreneurship in agriculture. It addresses the South African real-life challenges of food insecurity, youth unemployment and rural poverty from a classroom perspective, by linking agriculture, food and entrepreneurship as main learning areas. This paper outlines the programme in its local social and economic context. It argues for the need for a concept of entrepreneurship education that views opportunities in the context of young people’s positive freedoms. Its didactical model combines the EntreComp framework with the capability approach developed by Amartya Sen and others. It emphasises the role of capabilities or freedoms in developing and implementing ideas that create value for others. The Sustainable Development Goals form a medium of learning.
Servitization of manufacturing: survey in the Polish machinery sector
Authors: Kozłowska Justyna
Published: May 2020

Servitization in developed countries is an increasingly popular strategy for building a competitive advantage. Its level varies depending on different market conditions as well as between sectors. The Polish economy is that of a developed country, but still, its level of development is slightly lower compared to the most developed countries. The current state of knowledge indicates that the machinery manufacturing sector usually characterises the highest level of servitization in comparison to other manufacturing sectors. To the author’s knowledge, no study on the servitization of Polish manufacturing companies has been conducted. Therefore, the main objective of this paper is to fill the gap by analysing and evaluating the level of servitization in manufacturing companies operating in the Polish market. Aiming to assess whether the Polish manufacturers follow the global trends of servitization, the questionnaire survey was conducted with 150 machinery manufacturers operating in the Polish market. The survey was performed using the Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI) technique between May and July of 2018. The results showed that in surveyed companies, the level of servitization, which was assessed based on a range of the most frequently provided services, was rather low. Although most manufacturers offer services to their customers, these services mostly support their products, and the revenue derived from the services constitutes a comparatively small part of the company’s total revenue. This paper makes two types of contribution to the development of research in the field of servitization. First, the study on the servitization of the Polish manufacturing companies revealed that in a country with the well-developed economy, industrial enterprises still rely on manufacturing rather than service delivery. And the potential for services is not yet recognised. Secondly, the original model for classifying the level of product and service integration in the activity of a manufacturing company is proposed. The model requires empirical verification and further studies. Nevertheless, it stands for a theoretical contribution to the research field of servitization.
A quantitative approach for conservation of endangered and endemic plants from Kosovo, SE Europe
Authors: Berisha Naim , Krasniqi Elez , Millaku Fadil
Published: May 2020

Basic patterns of most priority biodiversity areas of Kosovo that shall be considered for conservation studies are offered here. On this work, all plant taxa that are included in the Kosovarian Red list are analysed and their analogy is interpreted to conservation priority hotspots. Kosovo represents an important centre for Balkan biodiversity; therefore a quantitative evaluation of the importance of different priority areas for conserving plant diversity of Kosovo is very much needed. This study provides a detailed quantitative approach concerning the identification of priority areas for biodiversity conservation, using threatened and endangered plant taxa in well-known grid squares system. Used grid squares (20 × 20 km) were classified into four different groups in terms of their conservation importance. Valuation factors taken into account are IUCN based risk category, endemism as well as ecological and distributional attributes. The results indicated that there are four grid squares – D4 (0.4300), G7 (0.3910), G8 (0.2750) and E4 (0.2860), that have remarkable conservation importance. These grid squares are all located along mostly high-elevation areas of two National Parks in Kosovo. These national scale data should prove to be very appropriate and easy to follow evidence for environmental decision-making bodies as well as be used for further research.
Serological Survey and Associated Risk Factors on Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Goats in Mila District, Algeria
Authors: Dahmane A. , Boussena S. , Hafsi F. , Ghalmi F.
Published: May 2020

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite prevalent in humans and other animals worldwide having medical and veterinary importance on account of reproductive failure causing significant socioeconomic losses. The aims of this study were to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in goats, determined the possible risk factors associated, and evaluate the performances of the latex agglutination test (LAT) to anti-T. gondii antibodies screening using the indirect Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay as a reference test (iELISA). A total of 184 serum samples from goats reared on 25 farms in Mila district from North-Eastern Algeria were collected and tested for anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies using two commercial serological tests (ELISA and LAT). A seroprevalence rate of 71.73 % and 63.58 % was obtained by both ELISA and LAT tests, respectively. The analysis of some factors thought to be related to the onset of this infection such as age, sex, management system, locality and presence of cats showed no significant relationship (P > 0.05); these factors did not seem to affect the frequency of the infection. The seropositivity level of T. gondii was significantly higher in aborted goats (P = 0.007), which suggested that they may play a significant role in pregnancy failure. In the concordance evaluation between the two serological tests (ELISA and LAT), the Cohen’s Kappa value was calculated and the results showed a K of 0.519 (p = 0.000) belonging to the range of 0.41—0.60 indicating just average agreement. The results of the Mc Nemar test showed that both tests gave significantly different results and seropositivity values (P < 0.05). The high prevalence observed in this study indicated a widespread exposure to T. gondii from goats and the potential risk of T. gondii infection for humans in North-Eastern Algeria. These results elucidate the challenges of applying serology to estimate goat exposure to T. gondii. The choice between the two serological tests will depend on their performances, as well as the availability of the equipment, laboratory conditions and the number of samples to be tested.
Effect of dance movements on stereotype and repetitive behaviours of cases with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Mishra Komal , Chaube Nandita
Published: May 2020

Objective

The objective of the study was to observe the effects of dance movements on stereotypical and repetitive behaviours of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Method

The sample consisted of 5 patients within the age range of 9 to 16 years. Of the pool of 15 patients, 5 were lying in the range of moderate autism spectrum disorder with a higher score on stereotypical and repetitive behaviours. There were three male and two female patients. The cases were regularly coming to the day care centre of a hospital located in the southern part of India. Participants were assessed by Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ) and BASIC-MR Part-B. Dance movement intervention was planned for these five cases.

Results

Pre- and post-test scores were taken to observe the effects of dance movements on their behaviours. Fifteen sessions with a duration of 60 minutes per session were given. The results showed improvement in the repetitive behaviour in the sample, in which of these five, three showed greater improvement.

Conclusion

Hence, the result shows that dance movement could be used as an effective method to improve stereotypical and repetitive behaviour in children diagnosed with ASD.