bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Children’s respiratory infections in Tianjin, China: associations with home environments and life styles
Authors: Lv Da chao , Sun Yuexia , Hou Jing , Wang Pan , Zhang Qingnan , Sundell Jan
Published: December 2019

Background: Children spend most of their indoors time at home. This study is to identify the incidences of respiratory infections among children and their associations with home environments and life styles. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study to identify the associations of home environments and lifestyles with respiratory infections among children aged 0-8 in the Tianjin area, China. Results: The lifetime-ever incidences of croup, tuberculosis (TB), pneumonia and ear infection among children aged 0-8 in Tianjin area was 9.2%, 0.7%, 28.7% and 11.6%. The incidence of common cold infections more than twice per year was 31.3%. Home environment and life styles were strong risk factors for childhood respiratory infections. Dry air perception had the greatest associations with childhood pneumonia (PAF=14.6%) and common cold (16.8%), while Cesarean delivery had the greatest association with croup (18.7%) and ear infection (18.5%). Daycare attendance accounted for 14.4% of the incidence of frequent common colds. Infrequent sun-curing bedding is a risk factor associated with pneumonia (11.2%), ear infection (17.1%) and frequent common colds (8.6%). Conclusions: Factors related to “modern” home environments and life styles are risks for childhood respiratory infections. Modifying such factors might reduce the respiratory infections among children.
Evaluating Peat Substrates Amended with Pine Wood Fiber for Nitrogen Immobilization and Effects on Plant Performance with Container-grown Petunia
Authors: Harris Crysta N. , Dickson Ryan W. , Fisher Paul R. , Jackson Brian E. , Poleatewich Anissa M.
Published: December 2019

Pine (Pinus sp.) wood products have potential to immobilize fertilizer nitrogen (N) and influence plant growth when used in soilless substrates for the production of containerized floriculture crops. Peat substrate was amended with (by volume) 30% pine wood fiber (peat:fiber) during a production phase with fertigation and a simulated consumer retail phase with clear-water irrigation using container-grown ‘Supertunia Vista Bubblegum’ petunia (Petunia ×hybrida). The objective was to evaluate substrate effects on substrate and plant tissue nutrient level and plant growth, with an emphasis on evaluating N immobilization from wood product amendments. Substrates consisting of peat amended with hammer-milled pine wood (peat:wood) or coconut (Cocos nucifera) coir (peat:coir) were used for comparison, and a 100% peat substrate (peat) served as a control. In Expt. 1, amending peat with pine wood fiber had no effect on leaf SPAD chlorophyll index, shoot growth, plant height and width, substrate N, or percent shoot tissue N at the end-of-production. In Expt. 2, plants grown in peat:fiber had reduced flower number, plant height and width, and shoot growth compared with plants grown in the 100% peat control. However, petunia grown in peat:fiber substrates maintained dark-green foliage with high leaf SPAD chlorophyll index values (≥44.4) and ≥45 flowers/plant, and therefore were considered marketable plants. During the production phase in both Expts. 1 and 2, N concentrations remained within the target range for petunia in both the shoot tissue and root-zone for all substrates. In addition, there was no statistical evidence of N immobilization for any substrate blend for either of the N drawdown procedures. In both Expts. 1 and 2, root-zone nutrients became depleted during the consumer phase when irrigation was with clear water (no fertilizer), and petunia developed uniform symptoms of leaf chlorosis and N deficiency. Results of this study indicate that peat amended with 30% pine wood fiber, hammer-milled pine wood, and coconut can be used for production of containerized petunia with minimal effects on plant growth or need to adjust the fertilizer program. However, increasing pine wood to >30% of the substrate volume may require growers to increase fertilization and adjust irrigation practices to compensate for greater risk of N immobilization and changes in substrate physical properties.
Conservation Agriculture Increases Yields and Economic Returns of Potato, Forage, and Grain Systems of the Andes
Authors: Mosquera V.H. Barrera , Delgado J.A. , Alwang J.R. , López L.O. Escudero , Ayala Y.E. Cartagena , Andrade J.M. Domínguez , D'Adamo R.
Published: December 2019

Physical and environmental vulnerability analysis conducted for the Illangama watershed located in Ecuador's Andean highlands, shows deteriorated soil quality and declining crop productivity. These problems are caused by soil erosion in steep slopes and inappropriate soil management practices. Research projects conducted from 2011 to 2014 adopted and examined the feasibility of conservation agriculture practices for potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), oat (Avena sativa L.) and vetch (Vicia sativa L.), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), bean (Vicia faba L.), and a mixture of pastures (annual ryegrass [Lolium multiflorum Lam.], perennial ryegrass [L. perenne L.], orchardgrass [Dactylis glomerata L.], white clover[Trifolium repens L.], and red clover [T. pratense L.]). The practices included surface water deviation ditches, reduced tillage, residue retention, and application of N, all within an improved rotation. The study examined crop yields and economic returns in an effort to identify the best practices. Results indicate that crop productivity and net (of cost of production) benefits of the system were increased as much as 25 and 24%, respectively, using a feasible conservation agriculture system compared to conventional practices. This study shows that conservation agriculture increases yields and saves on production costs due to less tillage. We also found that N fertilization with these conservation agriculture practices increases yields and net returns. This study concludes that conservation agriculture practices are good alternatives for these high‐altitude Andean soils. The practices should be promoted among Andean producers to increase the productivity and sustainability of their potato–grain–pasture systems.

Core Ideas

The Andean region of Ecuador is critical for the country's food security.

Cultivation of high‐slope mountainous agriculture is accelerating erosion.

Conservation agriculture is an attractive management alternative.

Implementation of reduced tillage could contribute to higher net income for farmers.

These practices could benefit nearly 200,000 Ecuadorean farms.
“OS ENCANTADO NOS MANDÔ, VIEMO AQUI FAZER LIMPEZA”: PRÁTICAS DE CURA E ENCANTARIA ENTRE OS ÍNDIOS TREMEMBÉ E O CUIDADO DE SI
Authors: Pereira Arliene Stephanie Menezes , Pessoa Kaline Lígia Estevam de Carvalho
Published: December 2019

O povo indígena Tremembé reside atualmente em 3 municípios da costa oeste do estado do Ceará, sendo o foco desta pesquisa é com os índios residentes do município de Itarema. O trabalho traz uma descrição sobre os processos curativos e de encantaria entre os índios Tremembé, fazendo-se um paralelo com o primeiro momento do cuidado de si de Michel Foucault (2010;1985). Objetivamos que este trabalho possa dar sustentação e abrir horizontes de compreensão sobre os significados simbólicos acerca do conceito de cuidado de si entre os indígenas. A pesquisa baseou-se na metodologia etnográfica, sendo realizada entre os anos de 2009 a 2018, recolhendo relatos e presenciando experiências. Descreve-se essas práticas elucidando-as através de rituais, mitos, bebidas, rezas, cânticos, plantas medicinais e práticas realizadas pelos Pajés, bem como, acerca do ritual do Torém e da bebida feita a partir do caju azedo (o mocororó). Neste contexto, as práticas espirituais, curativas e de encantaria mantém uma íntima relação com o cuidado de si, sendo dotadas de significados simbólicos e implicando-se como formas próprias de se constituírem.
A GASTRONOMIA COMO ALTERNATIVA EMPREENDEDORA PARA EMPODERAMENTO DE MULHERES DE BATURITÉ-CE
Authors: BRAUN MARIA DO SOCORRO DE ASSIS , LIMA ÂNGELA MARIA DE AMORIM
Published: December 2019

O presente artigo pretende demonstrar a gastronomia conectada a uma perspectiva empreendedora, como oportunidade de empoderamento feminino em Baturité-Ce e ainda, analisar os impactos da educação profissional como proposta para mudança socioeconômica, através de negócios gastronômicos como alternativa para geração de emprego e renda, para mulheres em situação de vulnerabilidade no município de Baturité, potencializando o protagonismo feminino, ou seja, oferecer condições para que mulheres possam elevar sua autoestima e conquistar independência financeira. Como procedimento metodológico, foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico e análise documental com estrutura de pesquisa exploratória e abordagem qualitativa, orientada para entendimento da dinâmica das relações sociais que envolvem a gastronomia como alternativa empreendedora. Nessa perspectiva, a temática deste trabalho está relacionada ao empoderamento de mulheres para reduzir a desigualdade de gênero e, assim poder conquistar emancipação social e financeira, e consequentemente abreviar a violência e o feminícidio. Nessa linha de reflexão, foi realizada a análise de S.W.O.T. e construído o diagrama de Ishikawa para analisar a relação de causa e efeito das ações de políticas públicas voltadas para mulheres, tendo em vista compreender os fatores que podem influenciar na decisão de empreender. Finalmente, o empreendedorismo em segmentos gastronômicos como alternativa para geração de emprego, renda e emancipação de mulheres em situação de vulnerabilidade, poderá elevar a autoestima e superar dilemas sociais, reforçando a importância do empreendedorismo como mecanismo de promoção, avanço econômico e social de toda sociedade do município de Baturité.
Mini review: interactions between antifungal azoles, neurological bladder and urinary problems
Authors: Bounoua Nadia , Rebizi Nadjib Mohamed
Published: December 2019

This review describes the importance of antifungal drugs in medicinal, pharmaceutical and agriculture fields because of their wide spectrum of biological activities in the recent years. Their chemical structure has expected considerable interest. Also, we focus on urinary problems and can be helpful to develop the ideas in neurological bladder for see the interactions and effect of antifungal drugs in system neurologic, because urinary tract infection is one of the most frequent diseases in medical practice. Some deﬁnitions are discussed and reported emphasizing microbiological, clinical and therapeutic aspects.
Spiritual needs, prayer and cardiac function changes in healthy young women – the interconnection of spirituality with human physiology
Authors: Riklikiene Olga , Poskaite Gintare , Vainoras Alfonsas
Published: December 2019

The aim was to assess the cardiac function of healthy women by applying the spiritual intervention, i.e. a prayer, in different circumstances. Methods: a descriptive, intervention study design was used. The data were collected during three weeks in May, 2019. A total of 39 women with normal physiologic health at the age of 25-50 years who considered themselves as religious persons participated in the study. The cardiac-spiritual intervention process consisted of nine episodes with the heart rate measurements applied. For data recording and analysis researchers used ECG system Kaunas-Load that was developed at Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. With the ECG record RR interval, HRV and ST interval amplitude were analysed. The Spiritual Needs Questionnaire (SpNQ) was used to assess the spiritual needs of participants. Data were recorded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM SPSS Statistics) version 25.0. Results: Religious and Existential needs were the most important spiritual needs for women. Existential needs the most strongly correlated with Religious needs and needs of Inner peace. The reactions to prayer were more expressed in women of older age. The general tendency of increase in RR average during the praying episodes was observed; at resting position women’s heart rate decreased. During all phases of the study, the HR spectrum power was higher in the group of women with stronger expression of their unmet spiritual needs and the general physiologic condition of these women was also better. The increasing significant (p < 0.1) relationship between spiritual needs scores and changes of women heart rate was observed during pray episodes of spiritual intervention process. Conclusions: changes in the heart rate of healthy women during separate episodes of spiritual intervention demonstrated the reaction toward prayer. Individual or group praying caused the calming effect for women under the study. Assessment of unmet spiritual needs of women and the relationship with the heart rate changes during spiritual intervention process supported the idea that heart activity depends on the level of personal religiosity and spirituality.
Effect of geotextile sewing method on dewatering performance of geotubes: an experimental study
Authors: Man Xiaolei , Sha Ganggang , Hu Shuigen , Liu Guangying , Wang Wansheng
Published: December 2019

Geotubes are made by sewing geotextiles together and geotextiles are woven with warp and weft threads of different mechanical properties. This research explores effect of geotextile sewing method on dewatering performance of geotubes using a hanging bag test. Two types of hanging bags are made by different geotextile sewing methods: horizontal bag with the warp threads along its circular direction and vertical bag with the warp threads along its axial direction. The test results show that the dewatering performance of the bag is better if its weft stress is greater than warp stress. Combined with the stress analysis of a simplified geotube, the effect of geotextile sewing method on dewatering performance of geotubes is obtained: when the circumferential direction of geotubes is consistent with the weft threads, dewatering performance of geotubes will be better. This finding has the potential to act as a guideline for construction of geotubes in engineering.
Selection of ground motion prediction equations for probabilistic seismic hazard analysis based on an improved fuzzy logic
Authors: Shayanfar Mohsen Ali , Barkhordari Mohammad Ali , Mahmoudi Mostafa , Jahani Ehsan
Published: December 2019

The fuzzy logic method has been used widely in civil and earthquake engineering, but there is no comprehensive point of view for utilizing fuzzy approach in order to obtain ground motion prediction equations (GMPEs) for probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA). Hence, fuzzy magnitude–distance method as a new approach for choosing GMPEs in the process of PSHA, is developed in this research through the selection of the ruling peak ground acceleration (PGA) of each common cell (the combined cell of earthquake intensity and site to source distance). The presented method reduces the need for engineering judgments in seismic analysis based on a newly developed benchmark. It enables designers to not only determine the range of acceptable fuzzy results but also introduces a concept which ensures the selection of initial well-suited GMPEs for the analysis.
Experimental study on secondary bearing mechanism of weakly cemented broken rock mass
Authors: Wang Ping , Feng Tao , Zhu Yongjian , Yu Weijian
Published: December 2019

In order to study the secondary bearing mechanism of weakly cemented broken surrounding rock, the surface of granite, limestone and mudstone broken rock samples were poured by cement slurry, and the weakly cemented rock mass was formed by static pressure infiltration method, and then an uniaxial loading test was carried out. The results show that the weakly cemented broken rock mass has a certain bearing capacity, but the bearing capacity is low, and the dispersion is high. The secondary bearing capacity of weakly cemented rock mass is affected by factors such as broken rock strength, rock particle size and rock gradation. The larger the rock particle size and strength are, the higher the secondary bearing capacity of the weakly cemented rock mass is. The average bearing capacity of the mudstone weak cementation specimen is 18.77 kN, and the residual bearing capacity is 1.46 kN, and a dispersion coefficient is 0.34. The average bearing capacity of granite is 343.65 kN, and the residual carrying capacity is 25.81 kN, and a dispersion coefficient is 0.11. The average bearing capacity of limestone is 367.22 kN, and the residual carrying capacity is 22.78 kN, and a dispersion coefficient is 0.3. After a certain grading, the average residual secondary bearing capacity of the weakly cemented rock mass is obviously improved, and the dispersion coefficient of peak bearing capacity is reduced. The grading scheme 1 has an average peak carrying capacity of 330.06 kN, a residual carrying capacity of 34.56 kN, and a dispersion coefficient is 0.07. The averaging scheme 2 has an average peak carrying capacity of 297.8 kN, a residual carrying capacity of 29.86 kN, and a dispersion coefficient is 0.14. The cementation regeneration mechanism of the broken rock mass mainly includes the cement-bonding effect of the cement slurry inside and on the broken rock mass. Under the loaded condition, the internal load-bearing network of the broken rock mass is the main mechanism for the secondary load of the broken rock mass, and the stability of the force-chain network is affected by the constraint. After the loss of the confinement, the force chain network fails, and the residual secondary bearing mechanism of the weakly cemented broken rock mass is transformed into the friction between the broken rock masses in the residual core rock pillar.
Tool development for automating the structural integrity assessment of aircrafts’ components
Authors: Stamatelos D. G. , Kappatos V.
Published: December 2019

During the aircraft’s maintenance, it is essential that its structural inspection as well as potential found damages to be assessed in an effective manner within a limited time frame. To reduce the required time, for the aforementioned procedure, an innovative tool is developed. For the first time, a structural integrity assessment tool integrates image processing algorithms and FE models. The tool processes data from Non Destructive Testing (NDT), via image processing algorithms, and then provide pieces of information regarding the residual strength of the examined component in an automated way. The data acquired, from the NDT, are interpreted using the threshold method, in order to generate an accurate map of the component with its damages (size and location). This information automatically feeds a parametric Finite Element (FE) model, which forms an FE model of the damaged component ready for analysis. The parametric FE model can construct models for isotropic and laminated monolithic components using the XFEM method and the Cohesive Zone Modelling (CZM) technique respectively. For the case of laminated components, Progressive Damage Modelling (PDM) is also considered. In this study, simple geometries as the upper and lower wing skin, are analysed under static tension or compression. Aim is to examine the effectiveness and feasibility of the developed tool. The main benefits obtained from the application of the tool is that the image processing data are manipulated automatically and fast providing all the information regarding the location and size of damage in the examined component. Moreover, from the obtained numerical results the strength reduction of the component can be predicted well, by just comparing them with the respective numerical results of the reference undamaged component. Overall, the developed tool is very promising, since time saving can be gained.
Syntactic Relations Reflected by Word Order in "The Catcher in the Rye" by J. D. Salinger and "Fates and Furies" by L. Groff
Authors: Ganieva R. R.
Published: December 2019

The research features syntactic structure in the twentieth century "The Catcher in the Rye" by J. D. Salinger and the twenty first century "Fates and Furies" by L. Groff. The research objective was to study the nature of syntactic relations expressed by word order in speech of narrators and characters. The paper outlines the rules of word order in the English sentence and reviews related studies in the field of syntax. The author analyzed the syntactic structure of sentences in the speech of narrators and characters in the two novels. The analysis was based on the descriptive method and techniques of observation, interpretation, comparison, and generalization. There were numerous examples of omission of auxiliary verbs in interrogative sentences in characters' speech, as well as interrogative sentences with affirmative structure. In "The Catcher in the Rye", affirmative sentences obecame interrogative with the help of interjections eh and ah. Both novels contained sentences where adverbial modifiers, objects, or attributes preceded the main parts – in the narrators' speech. A lot of one-member and contextually incomplete sentences were used to describe events and personages in both novels. In "The Catcher in the Rye", the narrator's speech revealed few cases of violations of word order rules, mostly in sentences with direct word order. The characters' speech appeared to contain much more cases of word order violations, since the novel features colloquial speech of twentieth century American teenagers. The speech of adult personages was characterized by correct word order. In "Fates and Furies", the narrator's speech demonstrated a significant number of elliptical sentences where auxiliary verb to be was omitted in simple verbal predicate with the verb in Present Continuous, as well as in compound nominal predicate and in passive voice. A comparative study of syntactic structure contributed to a deeper understanding of the nature of syntactic relations reflected by word order in the English sentence, grammatical structure of the English language, and popular types of sentences. In addition, the study showed the way native speakers express their ideas and thoughts by linguistic means and violate linguistic norms. The results can be used in various grammar courses and compiling textbooks.
Common Turkic Vocabulary of the Yakut Language: Words Denoting Animal Body Parts (Comparative Historical Analysis)
Authors: Malysheva N. V. , Danilov I. A.
Published: December 2019

The article discusses linguistic contacts of the Turkic languages. The research was based on the common Turkic vocabulary of the Yakut language, namely words denoting animal body parts. The paper focuses on the comparative-historical aspect of the ancient Turkic and modern Turkic languages. The authors described the lexical-semantic and phonostructural features of Yakut words denoting animal body parts that have a common Turkic origin. The methods included continuous sampling method from lexicographic sources, as well as descriptive and comparative methods. The semantic transitions of Turkic lexical reflexes from the Praturk system to the modern form revealed that words denoting animal body parts represent the most ancient layer of the Yakut vocabulary. It consists of vocabulary common for most Turkic languages and belongs to stable categories. As part of the phonological analysis, the authors determined phonostructural types and characteristics of the phonological system of lexical reflexes, the nature of the stability and variability of lexemes, and the main causes of the instability of the phonostructures of the word stems of other Turkic languages in the Yakut language. An analysis of the lexical-semantic features of the Yakut words for animal body parts in comparison with their lexical parallels in other Turkic languages revealed the nature of stability and variability of the lexical meanings of the stems for specific Turkic language.
Éxitos y fracasos de la cooperación transfronteriza: El ejemplo del Bidasoa
Authors: Alberdi Collantes Juan Cruz
Published: December 2019

La comarca del Bajo Bidasoa, que engloba a los municipios de Irun y Hondarrabia en España y a Hendaya en Francia, lleva décadas cultivando la colaboración intermunicipal, especialmente tras la puesta en marcha del consorcio transfronterizo Bidasoa-Txingudi el año 1998. La investigación tiene el objeto de mostrar la actividad de esta entidad como ejemplo de desarrollo de las políticas entre límites fronterizos interestatales dentro de la Unión Europea, y de los esquemas de socialización espacial que operan en torno a ellas. Optamos por la entrevista en profundidad para contrastar los resultados obtenidos mediante fuentes publicadas. Los resultados dejan entrever una incuestionable voluntad de materializar una colaboración limitada, sin embargo, por la dificultad de iniciar proyectos comunes regidos por legislación de dos estados diferentes.
Rıza Tevfik'in Güzel Sanat Hakkında Manzum Bir Musahabe Şiirine Yansıyan Romantik Sanat Algısı
Authors: Bingöl Ulaş
Published: December 2019

Sanatsal yaratım, estetik değer ve yargılar, sanatçının kişiliği kadim estetikten bugüne kadar sanat felsefesinin üzerinde durduğu belli başlı konulardır. Sanatçının eserini ortaya koyarken ruhsal vaziyeti ve bu ruhsal vaziyetin özgünlüğünü ele alan düşünürler, insanlığın ayırt edici faaliyetlerinden birinin sanat olduğunu vurgularlar. Kimi şairler de sanat üzerine fikirlerini dile getirerek estetik disiplini ve sanat felsefesinin gelişimine katkı sağlar. Alman şair ve filozof Schiller, Servet-i Fünûn edebiyatının önemli isimlerinde Tevfik Fikret şiir yoluyla sanat hakkındaki görüşlerini dile getiren bazı kişilerdir. Şiir yoluyla sanat felsefesi ve estetik hakkında düşüncelerini ifade eden bir şair de aynı zamanda felsefeyle ilgilenen Rıza Tevfik’tir. Onun Serab-ı Ömrüm kitabında yer alan Güzel Sanat Hakkında Manzum Bir Musahabe şiiri sanat felsefesi metni görünümündedir. Sanatçı, sanat, estetik değer ve estetik yargı konularına değinen şair, adeta bir filozof gibi sanatın felsefî çözümlemesini yapar. Sanatçının diğer insanlardan farkı; insanın sanat eserini ortaya koyarken içinde bulunduğu ruh hali ve bu ruh halinin niteliği üzerinde durarak hayvan ile insan arasındaki temel ayırımlardan birinin estetik duygu olduğunu belirtir. Beş bölümden oluşan şiirin her bir bölümünde sanatın farklı bir özelliğine dikkat çeker. Birinci bölümde sanat eserini ortaya koyan sanatçıyı; ikinci bölümde sanatçılar arasında şairin yeri ve özgünlüğü; üçüncü bölümde sanat ile ilim arasındaki farkı; dördüncü bölümde âlim ile sanatçı arasındaki telakki farkını; beşinci bölümde sanatçının insanları nasıl etkilediğini işler. Rıza Tevfik’in şiirinde ortaya konulan görüşlerin birçok yönden romantik sanat anlayışı ile paralellik gösterdiği gözlemlenir. Bu çalışmanın amacı, Rıza Tevfik’in Güzel Sanat Hakkında Manzum Bir Musahabe şiirinde ileri sürdüğü fikirler ile romantik sanat anlayışı arasındaki paralellikleri ortaya koyup incelemektir.
Evaluation of Micro-RNA Levels, Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress Markers in Patients Recieving Chemotherapy
Authors: Kirhan Idris , Kas Fehmi , Taskiran Hüseyin , Buyukhatipoglu Hakan , Gönel Ataman , Koyuncu Ismail
Published: December 2019

Objective:

The primary objective of this study was to compare oxidative DNA damage
markers, apoptosis markers and changes in miRNA levels in patients diagnosed with cancer and
treated through chemotherapy. Our secondary objective was also to evaluate tumor responses that
can be determined after post-chemotherapy clinical evaluations by physical examinations,
laboratory results and radiological imagings, and to compare the clinical results to oxidative stress
and apoptosis markers and micro RNA levels.

Materials and Methods:

To do that we designed a prospective observational cross-sectional study.
A total of 34 cancer patients and 27 healthy controls were included in the study from the Harran
University School of Medicine Department of Oncology. Newly diagnosed chemotherapy or
radiotherapy naive patients without any chronic diseases were included into the study. Patients
with a poor performance status (ECOG 2 and 3) and patients who did not meet the inclusion
criteria were excluded. The cancer patients received chemotherapy according to their scheduled
periods. Blood samples were taken from the patients before the first chemotherapy course and
before the second chemotherapy round. Patients were called for toxicity control on the 10th day
after the chemotherapy. Pre-chemotherapy, post-chemotherapy and control group miR-29a
expression levels, change in apoptosis markers and oxidative DNA damage markers were obtained
and compared. We studied 8-hydroxy 2-deoxyguanosine, total oxidant status, total anti-oxidant
status, and oxidative status index for oxidative stress markers. We studied M30 and M65 as
apoptosis markers. Clinical results of efficiency of the chemotherapy was acquired and compared
to biochemical markers based on chemotherapy results. Chemotherapy toxicities were recorded.

Results:

As a result, we found oxidative DNA damage markers and apoptosis markers were high in
the cancer group, demonstrating that oxidative DNA damage and apoptosis might play a direct or
indirect role in cancer etiology. However, there were subtle differences between pre-chemotherapy
and post-chemotherapy levels. Mir-29a expressions were lower in cancer patients as compared to
controls. However, the expression levels were not significantly change in pre- and postchemotherapy
status. Moreover, we found no relationship between clinical status of patients
(progression and regression) and studied biochemical markers.

Conclusion:

Thus, checking for DNA damage markers and taking precautions to lower the levels
of these markers in individuals with cancer risk may be helpful in preventing cancer.
Live Impedance Measurements and Time-lapse Microscopy Observations of Cellular Adhesion, Proliferation and Migration after Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Skonieczna Magdalena , Adamiec Malgorzata , Hudy Dorota , Nieslon Patrycja , Fochtman Daniel , Bil Patryk
Published: December 2019

Background:

Changes in the cellular behavior depend on environmental and intracellular
interactions. Cancer treatments force the changes, first on the molecular level, but the main visible
changes are macroscopic. During radiotherapy, cancer cell’s adhesion, proliferation and migration
should be well monitored. In over 60% of diagnosed cancers cases, patients are given treatments with
different protocols of radiotherapy, which result in possible metastasis and acute whole body response
to toxic radiation.

Objective:

Effectiveness of the therapy used depends on the sensitivity/resistance of irradiated cancer
cells. Cellular mechanisms of cancer protection, such as the activation of DNA damage and repair
pathways, antioxidants production and oxidative stress suppression during treatments are not desirable.
Cancer cells monitoring require the development of novel techniques, and the best techniques are
non-invasive and long-term live observation methods, which are shown in this study.

Methods:

In cancers, invasive and metastatic phenotypes could be enhanced by stimulation of proliferation
rate, decreased adhesion with simultaneous increase of motility and migration potential. For such
reasons, the Ionizing Radiation (IR) stimulated proliferation; migration with lowered adhesiveness of
cancer Me45 and normal fibroblasts NHDF were studied. Using impedance measurements technique
for live cells, the adhesion of cells after IR exposition was assessed. Additionally proliferation and migration
potential, based on standard Wound Healing assay were evaluated by timelapse microscopic
observations.

Results:

We found simulative IR dose-ranges (0.2-2 Gy) for Me45 and NHDF cells, with higher proliferation
and adhesion rates. On the other hand, lethal impact of IR (10-12 Gy) on both the cell lines
was indicated.

Conclusion:

Over-confluence cell populations, characterized with high crowd and contact inhibition
could modulate invasiveness of individual cells, convert them to display migration phenotype and advance
motility, especially after radiotherapy treatments.
The Endothelial Glycocalyx as a Key Mediator of Albumin Handling and the Development of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Korakas Emmanouil , Ikonomidis Ignatios , Markakis Konstantinos , Raptis Athanasios , Dimitriadis George , Lambadiari Vaia
Published: December 2019

:

The endothelial glycocalyx is a complex mesh of proteoglycans, glycoproteins and other soluble components, which cover the vascular endothelium. It plays an important role in many physiological processes including vascular permeability, transduction of shear stress and interaction of blood cells and other molecules with the vascular wall. Its complex structure makes its precise assessment challenging, and many different visualization techniques have been used with varying results. Diabetes, one of the main disease models where disorders of the glycocalyx are present, causes degradation of the glycocalyx through a variety of molecular pathways and especially through oxidative stress due to the action of reactive oxygen species. As the glycocalyx has been primarily studied in the glomerular endothelium, more evidence points towards a vital role in albumin handling and, consequently, in diabetic nephropathy. Therefore, the maintenance or restoration of the integrity of the glycocalyx seems a promising therapeutic target.

:

In this review, we consider the structural and functional capacities of the endothelial glycocalyx, the available methods for its evaluation, the mechanisms through which diabetes leads to glycocalyx degradation and albuminuria, and possible treatment options targeting the glycocalyx.
Characterizing the Latent HIV-1 Reservoir in Patients with Viremia Suppressed on cART: Progress, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Rausch Jason W. , Le Grice Stuart F.J.
Published: December 2019

Modern combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) can bring HIV-1 in blood plasma to level undetectable by standard tests, prevent the onset of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), and allow a near-normal life expectancy for HIV-infected individuals. Unfortunately, cART is not curative, as within a few weeks of treatment cessation, HIV viremia in most patients rebounds to pre-cART levels. The primary source of this rebound, and the principal barrier to a cure, is the highly stable reservoir of latent yet replication-competent HIV-1 proviruses integrated into the genomic DNA of resting memory CD4+ T cells. In this review, prevailing models for how the latent reservoir is established and maintained, residual viremia and viremic rebound upon withdrawal of cART, and the types and characteristics of cells harboring latent HIV-1 will be discussed. Selected technologies currently being used to advance our understanding of HIV latency will also be presented, as will a perspective on which areas of advancement are most essential for producing the next generation of HIV-1 therapeutics.
Application of Silica Nanoparticles in the Determination of Herbicides in Environmental Water Samples Using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy
Authors: Alam Mir Waqas , Rao Tentu Nageswara , Prashanthi Yarasani , Sridhar Vourse , Alshoaibi Adil , Souayeh Basma , Abuhimd Hatem , Ahmed Faheem
Published: December 2019

Background:

Herbicides are very beneficial in the crop yield with the aid of controlling
weeds within the agriculture, but several herbicides are chronic in soil.

Objective:

In this study, nanoparticles and the packages of synthesized novel silica nanoparticles
were studied for the preconcentration of herbicides.

Methods:

These nanoparticles prepared by the Stöber mechanism were purified and functionalized.
Nanoparticles thus prepared successfully were used as supporting material for the preconcentration
of residues of herbicides in the water.

Results:

Preconcentration was achieved by preparing the silica-based solid-phase-extraction cartridges.
Nanoparticles used for this purpose were within the range of 50-250 nm. An SPE cartridge
was prepared by packing 200 mg of silica nanoparticle in the empty cartridge of diameter 5.5 cm and
length 0.6 cm in between PTFE frits. Aqueous solutions of 0.1 μg/ml of herbicides were prepared
separately, and 10 ml of the solution was passed through the cartridge at the rate of 0.2 ml/min. After
passing 10 ml volume of the aqueous solution, residues adsorbed on the cartridge were eluted using 2
ml of acetonitrile. The eluate was injected to determine the herbicide residue adsorbed on the SPE
cartridge.

Conclusion:

In the study, it was found that greater than 90% of the herbicide residues were trapped
on silica nanoparticle-based SPE cartridge. An analytical method was developed for the simultaneous
determination of these herbicides. The residues were quantified by LC-MS/MS with ESI mode.
N and S Co-doped Ordered Mesoporous Carbon: An Efficient Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Samiee Leila , Hassani Sedigheh Sadegh
Published: December 2019

Background:

Porous carbon materials are promising candidate supports for various applications.
In a number of these applications, doping of the carbon framework with heteroatoms provides
a facile route to readily tune the carbon properties. The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR),
where the reaction can be catalyzed without precious metals is one of the common applications for
the heteroatom-doped carbons. Therefore, heteroatom doped catalysts might have a promising potential
as a cathode in Microbial fuel cells (MFCs). MFCs have a good potential to produce electricity
from biological oxidization of wastes at the anode and chemical reduction at the cathode. To the best
of our knowledge, no studies have been yet reported on utilizing Sulfur trioxide pyridine (STP) and
CMK-3 for the preparation of (N and S) doped ordered porous carbon materials. The presence of
highly ordered mesostructured and the synergistic effect of N and S atoms with specific structures
enhance the oxygen adsorption due to improving the electrocatalytic activity. So the optimal catalyst,
with significant stability and excellent tolerance of methanol crossover can be a promising candidate
for even other storage and conversion devices.

Methods:

The physico-chemical properties of the prepared samples were determined by Small Angle
X-ray Diffraction (SAXRD), N2 sorption-desorption, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM),
Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
(XPS). The prepared samples were further applied for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the optimal
cathode was tested with the Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) system. Furthermore, according to
structural analysis, The HRTEM, and SAXRD results confirmed the formation of well-ordered hexagonal
(p6mm) arrays of mesopores in the direction of (100). The EDS and XPS approved that N and
S were successfully doped into the CMK-3 carbon framework.

Results:

Among all the studied CMK-3 based catalysts, the catalyst prepared by STP precursor and
pyrolysis at 900°C exhibited the highest ORR activity with the onset potential of 1.02 V vs. RHE and
4 electron transfer number per oxygen molecule in 0.1 M KOH. The high catalyst durability and
fuel-crossover tolerance led to stable performance of the optimal cathode after 5000 s operation,
while the Pt/C cathode-based was considerably degraded. Finally, the MFC system with the optimal
cathode displayed 43.9 mW·m-2 peak power density showing even reasonable performance in comparison
to a Pt/C 20 wt.%.cathode.

Conclusions:

The results revealed that the synergistic effect of nitrogen and sulfur co-doped on the carbon
substrate structure leads to improvement in catalytic activity. Also, it was clearly observed that the porous
structure and order level of the carbon substrate could considerably change the ORR performance.
Characteristics of HSV-2, M. genitalium and C. trachomatis in HPV Genotypes Associated with Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Genital Infections
Authors: Moharreri Mona , Sohrabi Amir
Published: December 2019

Background:

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women. High-Risk HPV
types are known as the main agents involved in genital and cervical malignancies. There may be
co pathogens like STIs that are involved in enhancing the susceptibility and progression to cervical
neoplasia. This study was conducted to detect C. trachomatis, HSV-2 and M. genitalium using
qPCR in women suffering from cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, HPV infection and non cancerous-
non HPV subjects for the association of burden of genital disorders.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive study was performed on 195 Liquid Based Cytology
(LBCs) specimens collected from women referred to private laboratories. Fifty, 98 and 47 samples
were from women with known CIN, HPV positive and non-cancerous/non-HPV, respectively.
HSV-2, C. trachomatis, M. genitalium and HPV genotypes have been detected using multiplex
TaqMan Real Time PCR and PCR hybridization.

Results:

A total of 148 HPV positive samples were included. HPVs 6 (35.13%), 16 (32.43%), 18
(21.62%), 11 (9.46%), 31 (9.46%), and 51 (9.46%) were the most common genotypes. Single, 2,
3, and more than 4 multiple HPV genotypes were detected in 46%, 29.7%, 14.2%, 10.1% cases,
respectively. The prevalence of M. genitalium, C. trachomatis and HSV2 was 3 (1.54%), 24
(12.3%) and 1(0.5%), respectively. There were no statistically significant differences between
these pathogens and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (p≥ 0.05).

Conclusions:

HR-HPV genotypes were more prevalent in genital infections and cervical cancer.
It would seem early detection of dominant STI pathogens such as Chlamydia spp. gains due to effective
prevention. Here, further research is needed to understand the co-infections burden of HPV
genotypes with STIs in clinical manifestations.
Proposed Mechanism of Tecoma stans in Diabetes-Associated Complications
Authors: Gupta Amit , Behl Tapan
Published: December 2019

:

Tecoma stans (L.) Juss. ex Kunth has shown potent antidiabetic effect in the past; however,
none of the studies have been carried out to explore its effect in diabetic complications including
diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy. Thus, this review will aim to explore and propose multiple
hypotheses regarding its mechanism of action in diabetic complications which includes reduction in
oxidative stress, inflammation, angiogenesis, lipid profile correction and direct anti-glycemic effects.

:

A detailed review including most of the articles, which includes research as well as reviews, available
on the internet regarding the concerned topic was performed. The review includes MEDLINE
databases using keywords along with their combinations, such as diabetic complications, plants in
diabetes, Tecoma stans, renin oxidative stress, inflammation, angiogenesis, diabetic retinopathy, α-
glucosidase and α-amylase, among several others. Mostly English-language articles were selected.

:

Since it has already been reported in various studies that Tecoma stans exhibit anti-diabetic effect,
however no information regarding its effects in diabetic complications were reported. This review
presents the data which aids in confirming that Tecoma stans can provide promising results in oxidative
stress, inflammation, angiogenesis and lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, it has been depicted that
Tecoma stans has the potential for α-glucosidase inhibition. The mechanism below can explain that
Tecoma stans can be used in diabetic complications of diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy.

:

Tecoma stans may provide an effective natural product to treat hyperglycaemia and prevent subsequent
diabetic complications which includes nephropathy and retinopathy.
Application of a PhotoThermal model for container-grown conifer seedling production
Authors: Grossnickle Steven
Published: December 2019

This study applied a total energy approach to model seedling growth for container-grown loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.). Seedlings were grown in three container stocktypes representing a range of cavity volume and density patterns. These seedlings were grown under both controlled greenhouse and outside compound environmental conditions under well-defined cultural conditions. Models for temperature and light ranges were created from work on the ecophysiological performance and morphological development of loblolly pine to these atmospheric conditions. A PhotoThermal data set was created by generating hourly averages of these two environmental variables during the growing season. Light and temperature data were integrated, each weighted equally, into PhotoThermal hours (PTH) to assess the crop growth response. Loblolly pine seedling growth in both the greenhouse and outside compound was directly related to PTH. Seedling growth was also related to the container type with the largest cavity volume and lowest cavity density having the greatest growth per PTH. Application of the PhotoThermal model is discussed for growing seedlings in an operational program having multiple production steps, delivery dates and nursery locations.
Reforestation in Venezuela – current situation and future perspectives
Authors: Visaez Francisco , Greaves Eduardo D.
Published: December 2019

The location of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in the tropical region of northern South America, in the Northern Hemisphere, with a total area of 91.64 million ha, of which 49.6 million correspond to natural forests (54.12 % of the national territory). Venezuela shows a series of geographic advantages that allow a rapid growth and development of the trees in comparison with the temperate zones where the growth is extremely slow. However, the occurrence of deforestation processes has intensified in a sustained way in the recent history of the country.

In the period from 1920 to 2008, the loss of 26.43% of the forested area has been recorded. Likewise, in the period 1975-1988, deforestation was estimated at 216,000 ha year-1, equivalent to 2.9 million ha in 13 years (Catalan 1992). Deforestation has now increased to worrying levels and according to FAO estimates (2010), in Venezuela, a forested area of more than 288.000 ha year-1 is deforested.

In the middle of the 20th century several public and private institutions began an important effort to reforest areas of sandy soils of scarce depth on a bed of highly impermeable clay. With erosion processes generated as a result of strong winds that causes severe damage to the little existing vegetation. It was expected that with the passage of time this region could become a desert in the oriental plains of Venezuela. This is how the Maderas del Orinoco Companies (CVG - PROFORCA), the Venezuelan Corporation of Guayana (CVG), Smurfit Kappa Cartón of Venezuela, San Carlos Forestry Development, Masisa. Propulso, among others, started in different regions of the country the establishment of plantations for various purposes. For this they have used fast growing forest species such as: Pinus caribaea var hondurensis, Eucalyptus Urophylla, Acacia magnium, Caraipa llanorum, Tectonia grandis, Hebea brasiliens, Gmelina arborea, Erisma uncinatum, among others. At present, a reforested area of 650.000 ha has been reached. This has favored the protection of natural habitats by reducing the pressure for exploitation and use of the forests.

The legal framework established in the new National Constitution, approved in 1998, is based on decrees of 1825-1829 of the Liberator Simón Bolívar and classifies the territory in diverse forest areas establishing a modern environmental conservation policy. A historical summary and the current legislation with the classification that promises a rational management of the national territory is presented.