bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macrosight: A Novel Framework to Analyze the Shape and Movement of Interacting Macrophages Using Matlab®
Authors: Solís-Lemus José Alonso , Stramer Brian , Slabaugh Greg , Reyes-Aldasoro Constantino Carlos
Published: January 2019

This paper presents a novel software framework, called macrosight, which incorporates routines to detect, track, and analyze the shape and movement of objects, with special emphasis on macrophages. The key feature presented in macrosight consists of an algorithm to assess the changes of direction derived from cell–cell contact, where an interaction is assumed to occur. The main biological motivation is the determination of certain cell interactions influencing cell migration. Thus, the main objective of this work is to provide insights into the notion that interactions between cell structures cause a change in orientation. Macrosight analyzes the change of direction of cells before and after they come in contact with another cell. Interactions are determined when the cells overlap and form clumps of two or more cells. The framework integrates a segmentation technique capable of detecting overlapping cells and a tracking framework into a tool for the analysis of the trajectories of cells before and after they overlap. Preliminary results show promise into the analysis and the hypothesis proposed, and lays the groundwork for further developments. The extensive experimentation and data analysis show, with statistical significance, that under certain conditions, the movement changes before and after an interaction are different from movement in controlled cases.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of JMMP in 2018
Authors:   JMMP Editorial Office
Published: January 2019

Rigorous peer-review is the corner-stone of high-quality academic publishing [...]
The Joint Properties of 5754 Aluminium Alloy by Friction Stir Spot Welding
Authors: Dedeoğlu Orhan , Güler Özgül Hande
Published: January 2019

In this study, AA5754 sheet samples joined by using a friction stir spot welding method using different rotational speed parameters has been analyzed experimentally. During the experiments, rotational speed of the tool was changed while other process parameters and the tool geometry were kept constant. The effect of tool rotational speed on the hardness values, macrostructure, and tensile properties of joints has been investigated and the results of the experiments show the best tensile shear strength and hardness values are obtained for the tool rotation speed of 1850 rpm. According to the macroscopic investigation, all of the fractured samples failed by nugget pullout and the fractured samples have only a single type fracture pattern.
Encrypted DNP3 Traffic Classification Using Supervised Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: de Toledo Thais Rodriguez , Torrisi Nunzio Marco
Published: January 2019

The Distributed Network Protocol (DNP3) is predominately used by the electric utility industry and, consequently, in smart grids. The Peekaboo attack was created to compromise DNP3 traffic, in which a man-in-the-middle on a communication link can capture and drop selected encrypted DNP3 messages by using support vector machine learning algorithms. The communication networks of smart grids are a important part of their infrastructure, so it is of critical importance to keep this communication secure and reliable. The main contribution of this paper is to compare the use of machine learning techniques to classify messages of the same protocol exchanged in encrypted tunnels. The study considers four simulated cases of encrypted DNP3 traffic scenarios and four different supervised machine learning algorithms: Decision tree, nearest-neighbor, support vector machine, and naive Bayes. The results obtained show that it is possible to extend a Peekaboo attack over multiple substations, using a decision tree learning algorithm, and to gather significant information from a system that communicates using encrypted DNP3 traffic.
Pediatric Celiac Disease in Central and East Asia: Current Knowledge and Prevalence
Authors: Poddighe Dimitri , Rakhimzhanova Marzhan , Marchenko Yelena , Catassi Carlo
Published: January 2019

The current prevalence of pediatric Celiac Disease (CD) is estimated to be around 1% in the general population, worldwide. However, according to the geographic area, a great variability of CD prevalence has been described. Whereas a number of studies are available from Europe, North and South America, Australia, South-West Asia, and North Africa, the knowledge and awareness of CD in large parts of the remaining world areas is definitively poor. In several countries of Central and East Asia, the consumption of wheat is consistent and/or has significantly increased in recent decades, and CD is supposed to be underdiagnosed in children. In this mini-review, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge about the prevalence of pediatric CD in Central and East Asia, paying attention to the HLA-DQ immunogenetic background as well. Indeed, CD is likely not to be as uncommon as previously or currently thought in countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, and China, in addition to India, where pediatric CD has been clearly showed to be quite prevalent. Therefore, there is an urgent need for population-based studies on the prevalence of CD in those countries, especially in children, in order to increase the awareness of this disease and to improve the diagnostic strategy in these areas.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Medicines in 2018
Authors:   Medicines Editorial Office
Published: January 2019

Rigorous peer-review is the corner-stone of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for In-Field Detection of Pesticides: A Test on Dimethoate Residues in Water and on Olive Leaves
Authors: Tognaccini Lorenzo , Ricci Marilena , Gellini Cristina , Feis Alessandro , Smulevich Giulietta , Becucci Maurizio
Published: January 2019

Dimethoate (DMT) is an organophosphate insecticide commonly used to protect fruit trees and in particular olive trees. Since it is highly water-soluble, its use on olive trees is considered quite safe, because it flows away in the residual water during the oil extraction process. However, its use is strictly regulated, specially on organic cultures. The organic production chain certification is not trivial, since DMT rapidly degrades to omethoate (OMT) and both disappear in about two months. Therefore, simple, sensitive, cost-effective and accurate methods for the determination of dimethoate, possibly suitable for in-field application, can be of great interest. In this work, a quick screening method, possibly useful for organic cultures certification will be presented. DMT and OMT in water and on olive leaves have been detected by surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) using portable instrumentations. On leaves, the SERS signals were measured with a reasonably good S/N ratio, allowing us to detect DMT at a concentration up to two orders of magnitude lower than the one usually recommended for in-field treatments. Moreover, detailed information on the DMT distribution on the leaves has been obtained by Raman line- (or area-) scanning experiments.
Thiodiketopiperazines Produced by Penicillium crustosum and Their Activities to Promote Gastrointestinal Motility
Authors: He Xin , Yang Jing , Qiu Ling , Feng Dan , Ju Feng , Tan Lu , Li Yu-Zhi , Gu Yu-Cheng , Zhang Zhen , Guo Da-Le , Deng Yun
Published: January 2019

Three new thiodiketopiperazines (1–3), along with two known analogues (4 and 5), were isolated from the fermentation broth of Penicillium crustosum. Their structures were elucidated through extensive spectroscopic analysis and the absolute configurations of new compounds were determined by Mosher ester analysis and calculated ECD spectra. Compound 4 and 5 have the activity to promote the gastrointestinal motility of zebrafish via acting on the cholinergic nervous system.
Chestnut (Castanea sativa Miller.) Burs Extracts and Functional Compounds: UHPLC-UV-HRMS Profiling, Antioxidant Activity, and Inhibitory Effects on Phytopathogenic Fungi
Authors: Esposito Tiziana , Celano Rita , Pane Catello , Piccinelli Anna Lisa , Sansone Francesca , Picerno Patrizia , Zaccardelli Massimo , Aquino Rita Patrizia , Mencherini Teresa
Published: January 2019

Chestnut (Castanea sativa Miller.) burs (CSB) represent a solid waste produced during the edible fruit harvesting. Their usual disposal in the field increases the environmental and economic impact of the agricultural process. HPLC-UV-HRMS profiling revealed that CSB organic and aqueous extracts (CSB-M, CSB-H, CSB-A) contain several hydrolyzable tannins, mainly ellagitannins, and glycoside flavonols. Ellagic acid (EA) and chestanin are predominant components (5–79 and 1–13 mg/g dry extract, respectively). NMR analysis confirmed the chemical structures of the major constituents from CSB-M. The extracts displayed a significant scavenging activity against DPPH• (EC50 12.64–24.94 µg/mL) and ABTS•+ radicals (TEAC value 2.71–3.52 mM Trolox/mg extract). They were effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth (EC50 6.04–15.51 mg/mL) and spore germination (EC50 2.22–11.17 mg/mL) of Alternaria alternata and Fusarium solani. At the highest concentration, CSB-M was also active against Botrytis cinerea both in mycelium and spore form (EC50 64.98 and 16.33 mg/mL). The EA contributed to the antifungal activity of extracts (EC50 on spore germination 13.33–112.64 µg/mL). Our results can support the upgrading of chestnut burs from agricultural wastes to a resource of natural fungicides for managing fruit and vegetable diseases.
Synthesis, Structure, Thermal Behavior and cis/trans Isomerization of 2,2′-(EMe3)2 (E = C, Si, Ge, Sn) Substituted Azobenzenes
Authors: Hoffmann Jonas , Kuczmera Thomas Josef , Lork Enno , Staubitz Anne
Published: January 2019

The synthesis of a series of 2,2′-bis(trimethyltetrel) azobenzenes is reported, evaluating the different synthetic approaches that different group 14 element substituents individually require. The synthetic access to the carbon substituted congener is very different from the heavier tetrels, in that the key step is the formation of the N=N bond in azobenzene, rather than the azobenzene-C bond. Sn could be introduced with a cross-coupling route, whereas the Si and Ge congeners were prepared by a stannylation-lithiation-electrophilic quenching sequence. Iodo-lithium exchange was also a possible route to obtain the dilithiated species, which can be attributed to the chelating effect of the nitrogen atoms. However, the organo-lead species could not be obtained via these routes. The resulting structures were fully characterized (NMR, FTIR, HRMS and XRD). Furthermore, their thermal properties (TGA and DSC) and their photoswitching behavior in solution (UV-VIS & NMR experiments) were investigated and compared for the different tetrels (C, Si, Ge, Sn).
Cell Responses to Extracellular α-Synuclein
Authors: Surguchev Alexei A. , Emamzadeh Fatemeh Nouri , Surguchov Andrei
Published: January 2019

Synucleins are small naturally unfolded proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. The family contains three members: α-, β-, and γ-synuclein. α-Synuclein is the most thoroughly investigated because of its close association with Parkinson’s disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies and multiple system atrophy. Until recently, the synuclein’s research was mainly focused on their intracellular forms. However, new studies highlighted the important role of extracellular synucleins. Extracellular forms of synucleins propagate between various types of cells, bind to cell surface receptors and transmit signals, regulating numerous intracellular processes. Here we give an update of the latest results about the mechanisms of action of extracellular synucleins, their binding to cell surface receptors, effect on biochemical pathways and the role in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation.
Cooperative Effects in Weak Interactions: Enhancement of Tetrel Bonds by Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Trujillo Cristina , Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José , Sánchez-Sanz Goar
Published: January 2019

A series of silyl and germanium complexes containing halogen atoms (fluorine and chlorine atoms) and exhibiting tetrel bonds with Lewis bases were analyzed by means of Møller-Plesset computational theory. Binding energies of germanium derivatives were more negative than silicon ones. Amongst the different Lewis bases utilized, ammonia produced the strongest tetrel bonded complexes in both Ge and Si cases, and substitution of the F atom by Cl led to stronger complexes with an ethylene backbone. However, with phenyl backbones, the fluorosilyl complexes were shown to be less stable than the chlorosilyl ones, but the opposite occurred for halogermanium complexes. In all the cases studied, the presence of a hydroxyl group enhanced the tetrel bond. That effect becomes more remarkable when an intramolecular hydrogen bond between the halogen and the hydrogen atom of the hydroxyl group takes places.
Catastrophic Health Expenditures and Its Inequality in Households with Cancer Patients: A Panel Study
Authors: Lee Munjae , Yoon Kichan
Published: January 2019

This study aims to examine the determinants of catastrophic health expenditure in households with cancer patients by conducting a panel analysis of three-year data. Data are adopted from surveys administered by Korea Health Panel for 2012–2014. We conducted correspondence and conditional transition probability analyses to examine households that incurred catastrophic health expenditure, followed by a panel logit analysis. The analyses reveal three notable results. First, the occurrence of catastrophic health expenditure differs by age group, that is, the probability of incurring catastrophic health expenditure increases with age. Second, this probability is higher in households with National Health Insurance than those receiving medical care benefits. Finally, households without private health insurance report a higher occurrence rate. The findings suggest that elderly people with cancer have greater medical coverage and healthcare needs. Private health insurance contributes toward protecting households from catastrophic health expenditure. Therefore, future research is needed on catastrophic health expenditure with focus on varying age groups, healthcare coverage type, and private health insurance.
Reviewing Literature on Digitalization, Business Model Innovation, and Sustainable Industry: Past Achievements and Future Promises
Authors: Parida Vinit , Sjödin David , Reim Wiebke
Published: January 2019

Digitalization is revolutionizing the way business is conducted within industrial value chains through the use of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, intensive data exchange and predictive analytics. However, technological application on its own is not enough; profiting from digitalization requires business model innovation such as making the transition to advanced service business models. Yet, many research gaps remain in analyzing how industrial companies can leverage digitalization to transform their business models to achieve sustainability benefits. Specifically, challenges related to value creation, value delivery, and value capture components of business model innovation need further understanding as well as how alignment of these components drive sustainable industry initiatives. Thus, this special issue editorial attempts to take stock of the emerging research field through a literature review and providing a synthesis of special issue contributions. In doing so, we contribute by developing a framework that communicates and sets the direction for future research by linking digitalization, business model innovation, and sustainability in industrial settings.
THE KNOWLEDGE PRESENTATION ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS OF THE PARTICIPANTS IN THE PUBLIC REFURBISHMENT SECTOR
Authors: Mickaitytė Aistė , Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras , Kaklauskas Artūras
Published: January 2019

The aim of this article is to describe decision making groups participating in the process of public buildings refurbishment, to identify their needs of knowledge about public building refurbishment process and to analyze the knowledge dissemination channels. The knowledge dissemination channels used in “BRITA in PuBs” project are described, web‐based decision support tools for the building refurbishment are analyzed. Web‐based decision support are grouped, the examples of their usage in the practise of public building refurbishment process are presented. In the last chapter of article the Intelligent Life Long Learning Tutoring System is presented. According the material of the “BRITA in PuBs” project the study module of public buildings refurbishment was created.
PARAMETERIZATION OF CROP SIMULATION MODEL “CERES‐MAIZE” IN NITRA‐DOLNÁ MALANTA
Authors: Samuhel Pavel , Šiška Bernard
Published: January 2019

Nowadays more than ever production of food depends on reasonable usage of sources. Processes like climate change, climate variability, carbon retention, long‐time food safety are becoming more and more important. Determining of reasonable crop strategy can have a significant social and economic effect. Computer‐simulative models of systems soil/plant/atmosphere can help in processes like crop growth or development. Crop simulation model CERES‐Maize program part of DSSAT v.4 was used to simulate potential maize grain yield. Field trials of Slovak Agricultural University in Nitra ‐ Dolna Malanta were used for parameterization of the model. Model inputs included TMIN‐minimal daily temperature, TMAX‐maximal daily temperature, SRAD‐sun radiation and RAIN‐daily sum of precipitation called as ‘minimum data set’ were built into weatherman program shell. These weather data are basic for the model running. Other important input data included the soil data and agrotechnological data. Outputs of the model show that measured and simulated maize grain yields have a very close relationship. Mean relative difference from all these years reached 7,76 %. Simulated grain yields are a little bit higher in all years as compared with field trial yields. This fact can be explained by the influence of a harmful disease and insects. Successful parameterization is a good base for climate change impact studies.
NATURAL RADIONUCLIDE DISTRIBUTION AND RADON EXHALATION RATE FROM THE SOIL IN VILNIUS CITY
Authors: Jasaitis Dainius , Girgždys Aloyzas
Published: January 2019

In the territory of Vilnius city radioisotopic composition of different soils was experimentally determined and radon exhalation rate from the soil was evaluated using these data. Specific activitys of natural radionuclides 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were measured. From identified natural radionuclides the biggest quantities were for 40K (263 Bq/kg), the smallest values ‐ for 232Th (5 Bq/kg), average 226Ra values reached 13 Bq/kg. Radon exhalation rate from the soil in Vilnius city was calculated and evaluated. Distribution of radon exhalation rate values in the whole territory of the city is stated. The received values vary from 15 Bq/m2·h (in clay loam) to 23 Bq/m2·h (in sand). It is assessed that of the most important parameters, which determine radon exhalation rate from the soil, are the quantity of radium and the porosity of the soil. It is observed that radon exhalation rate from the soil is bigger than that from building materials. This difference is determined by a bigger porosity of the soil.
ASSESMENT OF NITRIFICATION AND DENITRIFICATION RATE IN BIOLOGICAL NITROGEN REMOVAL FROM WASTEWATER
Authors: Vabolienė Giedrė , Matuzevičius Algirdas Bronislovas
Published: January 2019

Biological nitrogen removal from wastewater is based on nitrification and denitrification processes in biological treatment plants with activated sludge. Slowed growth of nitrification bacteria is one of basic problems in biological nitrogen removal from wasterwater. Using biological nitrogen removal technologies at changing nitrification and denitrification rate, it is very important to evaluate properly aeration and reduced aeration duration and to estimate nitrification and denitrification rate. To this purpose an investigation was carried out at Utena Wastewater Treatment Plant. Nitrification and denitrification rate was estimated during five experiments in aeration tanks when the duration of aeration and reduced aeration was from 120 to 180 min. Nitrification and denitrification rate at a different aeration regime and impact of aeration regime on biological nitrogen removal was estimated in the work.
INVESTIGATION INTO DETERMINING THE HUMIDITY OF CHARGE USED FOR BIOLOGICAL AIR TREATMENT
Authors: Baltrėnas Pranas , Zagorskis Alvydas
Published: January 2019

Microorganisms can reproduce only in such substrata which contain a certain amount of water and dissolved nutritious substances. Therefore, it is necessary to search for such charges that are distinguished by a large filtering surface and good humidity‐retaining properties. In experiments three types of materials ‐ wood, zeolite and foam ‐ were used as a charge for the biological air‐cleaning process. The charges were mixed up to maintain humidity necessary for the microorganisms in the biofilter as long as possible. The charges were placed into three different cassettes in the biofilter. The wood charge consisted of wood chips of 10–15 mm and that of zeolite contained 10–12 mm of zeolite granules. The foam rubber was cut into separate cubes each having the dimensions of 30×30×20 mm. Dependence of the charge humidity on the airflow rate, temperature, time and charge thickness was determined in the work. During the experiments the airflow rate reached 0.1–0.6 m/sec., and the temperature ranged from 15 to 35 °C. Foam showed the best sorption properties, but a better distribution of humidity was found in the wood‐chip charge.
PHYTOREMEDIATION FOR HEAVY METAL‐CONTAMINATED SOILS COMBINED WITH BIOENERGY PRODUCTION
Authors: Ginneken Luc Van , Meers Erik , Guisson Ruben , Ruttens Ann , Elst Kathy , Tack Filip M. G. , Vangronsveld Jaco , Diels Ludo , Dejonghe Winnie
Published: January 2019

In June 2007, a project started in Flanders (Belgium) in which we will apply phytoremediation to clean soils that are diffusely polluted with heavy metals. Uptake ranges of heavy metals by rape seed, maize and wheat will be enhanced by increasing the bioavailability of these heavy metals by the addition of biodegradable physico‐chemical agents and by stimulating the heavy‐metal uptake capacity of the microbial community in and around the plant. In addition, the harvested biomass crops will be converted into bioenergy by using different energy‐recovery‐techniques. The energy and heavy metal mass balances will be compared for four different energy‐recovery techniques (anaerobic digestion, incineration, gasification and production of biodiesel). The overall information obtained will result in an economic evaluation of the use of phytoremediation combined with bioenergy production for the remediation of sites which are diffusely polluted with heavy metals. In the present review we will first explain the most important research steps investigated in our phytoremediation project. Secondly, an overview of literature discussing the phytoremediation capacity of rape seed to clean soils that are contaminated with heavy metals and the possibilities to produce biodiesel from this (heavy metal polluted) rape seed will be discussed in more detail.
Calibrating Interstellar Abundances Using Supernova Remnant Radiative Shocks
Authors: Dopita Michael A. , Seitenzahl Ivo R. , Sutherland Ralph S. , Nicholls David C. , Vogt Frédéric P. A. , Ghavamian Parviz , Ruiter Ashley J.
Published: January 2019

Using integral field data we extract the optical spectra of shocked interstellar clouds in Kepler’s supernova remnant located in the inner regions of our Galaxy, as well as in the Large Magellanic Cloud, the Small Magellanic Cloud, NGC 6822, and IC 1613. Using self-consistent shock modeling, we make a new determination of the chemical composition of the interstellar medium in N, O, Ne, S, Cl, and Ar in these galaxies and obtain accurate estimates of the fraction of refractory grains destroyed in the shock. By comparing our derived abundances with those obtained in recent works using observations of B-stars, F supergiant stars, and H ii regions, we provide a new calibration for abundance scaling in the range of

.
Black Hole Formation and Explosion from Rapidly Rotating Very Massive Stars
Authors: Uchida Haruki , Shibata Masaru , Takahashi Koh , Yoshida Takashi
Published: January 2019

We explore the formation process of a black hole (BH) through the pair-instability collapse of a rotating Population III very massive star in axisymmetric numerical relativity. As the initial condition, we employ a progenitor star that is obtained by evolving a rapidly rotating zero-age main-sequence star with mass 320 M
⊙ until it reaches a pair-instability region. We find that for such a rapidly rotating model, a fraction of the mass, ∼10 M
⊙, forms a torus surrounding the remnant BH of mass ∼130 M
⊙, and an outflow is driven by a hydrodynamical effect. We also perform simulations, artificially reducing the initial angular velocity of the progenitor star, and find that only a small or no torus is formed and no outflow is driven. We discuss the possible evolution scenario of the remnant torus for the rapidly rotating model by considering the viscous and recombination effects and show that if an energy of ∼1052 erg is injected from the torus to the envelope, the luminosity and timescale of the explosion could be of the orders of 1043 erg s−1 and years, respectively. We also point out the possibility for observing gravitational waves associated with the BH formation for the rapidly rotating model by ground-based gravitational-wave detectors.
A Two-step Magnetic Reconnection in a Confined X-class Flare in Solar Active Region 12673
Authors: Zou Peng , Jiang Chaowei , Feng Xueshang , Zuo Pingbing , Wang Yi , Wei Fengsi
Published: January 2019

Solar flares are often associated with coronal eruptions, but there are confined ones without eruptions, even for some X-class flares. How such large flares occurred and why they are confined are still not well understood. Here we studied a confined X2.2 flare in NOAA Active Region 12673 on 2017 September 6. It exhibits two episodes of flare brightening with rather complex, atypical ribbons. Based on topology analysis of the extrapolated coronal magnetic field, we revealed that there is a two-step magnetic reconnection process during the flare. Prior to the flare, there is a magnetic flux rope (MFR) with one leg rooted in a rotating sunspot. Neighboring the leg is a magnetic null-point structure. The sunspot drives the MFR to expand, pushing magnetic flux to the null point, and reconnection is first triggered there. The disturbance from the null-point reconnection triggers the second reconnection, i.e., a tether-cutting reconnection below the rope. However, these two reconnections failed to produce an eruption, because the rope is firmly held by its strapping flux. Furthermore, we compared this flare with an eruptive X9.3 flare in the same region 2 hr later, which has a similar MFR configuration. The key difference between them is that, for the confined flare, the MFR is fully below the threshold of torus instability, whereas for the eruptive one, the MFR reaches entirely above the threshold. This study provides good evidence supporting that reconnection alone may not be able to trigger eruption; rather, MHD instability plays a more important role.
Analysis of Calcium Levels in Groundwater and Dental Caries in the Coastal Population of an Archipelago Country
Authors: Yani Ristya Widi Endah , Palupi Retno , Bramantoro Taufan , Setijanto Darmawan
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND: The coastal region is the largest region in Indonesia as a country of the archipelago. Characteristics of groundwater content in coastal areas are very influential on dental health, especially dental caries. The main elements contained in 1-1000 mg/litre groundwater are calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chlorine, bicarbonate, and sulfate groups. Calcium is an essential ingredient for living organisms that play a role in the formation of bone and tooth along with permeability of cell walls. AIM: This study aimed to analyse the relationship between calcium in groundwater with dental caries. METHOD: Analytical observational study with cross-sectional approach was implemented was coastal communities in Watu Ulo Jember Regency in February 2018 (3,686 inhabitants), with sample criteria of the minimum age of 12 years and consumed groundwater as drinking water at least 2 years by purposive side. The variables in this study were calcium levels as the independent variable and dental caries as the dependent variable. Calcium was measured using the spectrophotometric method. Caries measurements were performed using the DMF-T index. Data were presented descriptively in the table and analysed by Spearman Correlation test to analyze the relationship between groundwater calcium with dental caries. RESULTS: Average groundwater calcium content was 126.75 mg/litre (high category), and average dental caries was 2.2 (low category). Spearman correlation analysis showed p = 0.029 (p < 0.000), which means there was a correlation between groundwater calcium level with dental caries. CONCLUSION: There is a positive relationship between the calcium content of groundwater with dental caries.
Analysis of Treatment Results of the Thoracic Part of Oesophageal Cancer
Authors: Orazbayev Bekzhan Alipbayevich , Musulmanbekov Kani , Bukenov Akat
Published: January 2019

AIM: This study aims to evaluate the methods of treatment of the thoracic part of oesophagal cancer and to predict the results of treatment depending on the factors of the prognosis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The results of treatment of 366 patients with cancer of the thoracic part of the oesophagus for 10 years (2007-2016) by the department of thoracic oncology of the Karaganda oncological dispensary were studied.
RESULTS: The overall five-year survival rate, regardless of the method of treatment, was only 8.72% (28 of 321), and in the 6-10 year period 8.41% (27 of 321) lived, p < 0.05. Analysis of the overall survival of patients with cancer of the thoracic part of oesophagus showed that the method of treatment does not have a significant effect on life expectancy. A multivariate analysis of 19 grades that affect the prognosis of the disease was carried out.
CONCLUSION: Radical type of treatment of the middle and lower thoracic oesophagus is surgical, in which the median of cumulative survival is 19 months. Traditional radiotherapy should be used in a limited way, as it is palliative, with a median survival of no more than 9 months. The leading factor in the prognosis for thoracic part of oesophagal cancer is the presence of regional metastases, on which the choice of method of treatment depends.
Effect of Early Breast Milk Nutrition on Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 in Preterm Infants
Authors: Alzaree Fatma A. , AbuShady Mones M. , Atti Mohamed Abdel , Fathy Gihan A. , Galal Essam M. , Ali Alaa , Elias Tahany R.
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND: Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is one of the essential intrauterine hormonal mediators of growth, and its serum values are often low after preterm delivery.
AIM: To evaluate the influence of immediate breast milk feeding on serum IGF-1 in preterm newborns.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This prospective, observational cohort study included 60 premature infants born < 32 weeks of gestation, divided into group A and B regarding breastfeeding or formula feeding. Growth measurements were taken at birth. The standard deviation of each measurement was calculated. Serum IGF-I was measured one day postnatal and at a time equivalent to 40 weeks of gestation.
RESULTS: Significant higher level of mean serum IGF-1 was detected in group A than B at postnatal age equivalent to 40 weeks of gestation. In group A, the higher significant level was detected in mean serum IGF-1 at an age equivalent to 40 weeks of gestation than at birth (25.21 Â± 6.69 and 20.13 Â± 5.46 p < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that high birth weight, increased age of gestation and breastfeeding were correlated to the elevated serum level of IGF-1 at a postnatal age corresponding to 40 weeks gestational age.
CONCLUSION: Immediate breast milk feeding was accompanied by elevated IGF-1 in the serum of preterm infants.
The Connection of the Level of Estradiol in Serum and Obesity with the Endometrial Bleeding in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Tofiloska Valentina , Krstevska Maria , Daneva-Markova Ana , Jovanovska Viktorija
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND: Postmenopausis is a period that begins one year after the last menstrual period. Abnormal uterine bleeding could be of different origins.
AIM: This study aimed to determine the association of serum estrogen hormone levels and obesity with the occurrence of endometrial bleeding in post-menopausal women.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective clinical study involving 120 postmenopausal patients treated at the University Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics-Skopje, divided into two groups: control and study. The control group consisted of 40 postmenopausal patients without endometrial bleeding, hospitalised and operated due to urogenital pathology. The study group consisted of 80 patients with endometrial bleeding who were divided into three subgroups according to the thickness of the endometrium: from 5-8 mm, 8-11 mm and above 11 mm. In all subjects, estradiol and BMI was determined.
RESULTS: Estradiol levels were statistically higher in the study group compared to control while statistically significant difference among the three subgroups according to the thickness of the endometrium about the levels of estradiol in blood is not found. About BMI, the results showed that there was no statistical significance between the two examined groups.
CONCLUSION: Patients with endometrial bleeding have increased levels of estradiol and are at increased risk of endometrial cancer about controls, the likelihood of endometrial cancer significantly increases by 1,108 times.
Examination of the relationship between solar activity and earth seismicity during the weak solar cycle 23
Authors: Semeida Mohamed , Khodairy Sara , El Hadidy Mahmoud , Abdel Hamed Rabab , Youssef Shahinaz , Stoeva Penka , Stoev Alexey
Published: January 2019

The relations between sunspot number, sunspot areas, and solar 10.7 cm radio flux, solar proton events and earthquakes of magnitude M ≥ 5 and M ≥ 8 during the interval from 1996 to 2008 of the solar cycle 23 have been analyzed in this work. We have found that there is a direct relation between solar activity and Earth seismic activity for M ≥ 5 and M ≥ 8, near the maximum of the solar cycle 23, and an inverse relation between them at the descending phase of the cycle.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG can protect malnourished children
Authors: Kara S.S. , Volkan B. , Erten I.
Published: January 2019

Malnutrition affects virtually all organ systems, and malnourished children are more prone to infections. These children have dysbiosis, but probiotics can restore the disrupted gut microbiome. We investigated the protective effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG in malnourished children in terms of incidence of infection, and anthropometric and metabolic parameters. 50 intervention and 50 control patients, aged 6 months to 5 years, with body weight and height below -2 SD, were randomly and prospectively recruited. The controls received a calorie and protein-appropriate diet for 3 months, while the study group additionally received approximately 109
L. rhamnosus GG for 3 months. Infection episodes and nutritional status were compared between the groups. 38 intervention, 33 control patients completed the study and the two groups were similar at baseline. The study group had fewer upper respiratory tract infections and gastroenteritis episodes at each month and at the end of the study. Children in the study group experienced fewer total upper respiratory infections and urinary tract infections. Hospitalisation was more frequent in the control group during the third month and at the end of the study. Total infection numbers were higher in the control group at each month and at the end of the study (P<0.001 for each). Increments in body mass index (BMI) and BMI Z-scores were more pronounced in the study group (P=0.008 and P=0.02, respectively). Daily prophylactic use of L. rhamnosus GG at 109 bacteria in malnourished children prevents most infections and improves nutritional status when used together with appropriate diet.
Determination of Excimer Laser Ablation Rates of Corneal Tissue Using Wax Impressions of Ablation Craters and White-Light Interferometry
Authors: Fisher B T , Hahn David W
Published: January 2019

* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Efforts to better understand the processes of corneal ablation are aided by a means to precisely measure corneal tissue ablation rates.

* MATERIALS AND METHODS: A white-light interferometer was used to measure the depth of argon fluoride laser ablation craters and wax impressions of the ablation craters. The technique was validated using polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and was then used to measure the ablation rate of bovine corneal tissue.

* RESULTS: The ablation rate was measured as 0.47 pm/pulse from direct measurement of the PMMA ablation craters and as 0.48 µp?/pulse from measurement of the corresponding wax impressions. The ablation rate of bovine corneal tissue was found to be 0.90 pm/pulse.

* CONCLUSIONS: Wax impressions provide a valid representation of ablation craters. The ablation depth of corneal tissue and PMMA was found to increase linearly with increasing number of laser pulses, and the slope of the regression lines provided a measure of the laser ablation rate.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2004;35:41-51.]
Enophthalmos as Initial Manifestation of Occult, Mammogram-Negative Carcinoma of the Breast
Authors: Shields Carol L , Stopyra Gary A , Marr Brian P , Moster Mark L , Shields Jerry A
Published: January 2019

Abstract. A patient with enophthalmos was found to have occult metastatic breast carcinoma to the orbit despite normal findings on breast examination and mammogram. Enophthalmos can be a sign of serious systemic disease and should be appropriately investigated. Despite radiologically interpreted normal orbital and breast imaging, the clinician should rule out underlying subclinical malignancy and consider orbital biopsy. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2004; 35:56-57.]
Los comerciantes italianos en la ciudad de Valladolid al final del Antiguo Régimen
Authors: Miguel López Isabel
Published: January 2019

La atención prestada a la presencia de comerciantes italianos en una ciudad de la meseta, como Valladolid, pretende poner de relieve su significación socioeconómica y su actuación en el mercado interior del Reino, precisamente cuando existía predilección por el asentamiento litoral o madrileño. A tal fin, se ha recurrido a la información por ellos generada y registrada en los protocolos notariales, sin obviar algunas otras fuentes complementarias. La investigación realizada ha permitido observar el predominio de lombardos junto a una familia de origen genovés, pero todos trataron de integrarse en la sociedad vallisoletana, aunque no olvidaron sus raíces italianas. Los negocios, con alguna excepción, fueron relativamente modestos, lo cual no fue óbice para incardinarse en los circuitos comerciales de la mitad norte peninsular, además de Madrid, e incorporarse a los europeos, exaltando, en ambos casos, la ventajosa situación estratégica de la ciudad.
Covering the Cost of the Past
Authors: Jovita Hazel , Mutiarin Dyah , Nurmandi Achmad
Published: January 2019

This is a quantitative article which aims to analyse what constitutes successful disaster governance by measuring how the previous performance of the disaster management network influence the aspects of governance process -initial agreement, leadership, trust, planning and managing conflict and how these variables are associated to the outcome of collaborative disaster management. The findings highlight the role of public managers in the collaborative disaster management as it revealed that initial agreement is connected with leadership, leadership is associated with trust, and trust, as well as managing conflict, are correlated with the planning process. The findings suggest that the Philippine disaster management network in Region 10 is shaped by its previous performance. However, there is a necessity to institutionalise incentive mechanisms and improve the leadership capacities of the lead agencies in order to strengthen the trust and interdependence among agencies which could lead to more effective disaster management plans and stronger network collaboration.
Springback Prediction Using Finite Element Simulation Incorporated With Hardening Data Acquired From Cyclic Loading Tool
Authors: Mohamad Jasri , Sidek Mohd Zaidi
Published: January 2019

The aims of this article are to present the accuracy of springback prediction in U-bending sheet metal forming processes using finite element (FE) simulation incorporated with kinematics or mixed hardening parameters that are derived from cyclic data provided by the developed cyclic loading tool. The FE simulation results in the form of springback angles are compared with the experimental results for validation. It was found that the mixed hardening model provides better simulation results in predicting springback. This is due to the capability of the isotropic hardening part of this model to describe cyclic transient and the kinematic hardening part to improve description of the Bauschinger effect. Kinematic hardening however, on its own is capable of providing relatively good springback simulation illustrated by errors of less than 8 percent. Overall, the data provided by cyclic loading from the newly developed bending-unbending tool is considered valuable for simulating springback prediction.
Identification of Novel Respiratory Syncytial Virus CD4+ and CD8+ T Cell Epitopes in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Schmidt Megan E , Varga Steven M
Published: January 2019

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract infection and hospitalization in infants. It is well established that both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells are critical for mediating viral clearance but also contribute to the induction of immunopathology following RSV infection. C57BL/6 mice are often used to study T cell responses following RSV infection given the wide variety of genetically modified animals available. To date, few RSV-derived CD4+ and CD8+ T cell epitopes have been identified in C57BL/6 mice. Using an overlapping peptide library spanning the entire RSV proteome, intracellular cytokine staining for IFN-γ was performed to identify novel CD4+ and CD8+ T cell epitopes in C57BL/6 mice. We identified two novel CD4+ T cell epitopes and three novel CD8+ T cell epitopes located within multiple RSV proteins. Additionally, we characterized the newly described T cell epitopes by determining their TCR Vβ expression profiles and MHC restriction. Overall, the novel RSV-derived CD4+ and CD8+ T cell epitopes identified in C57BL/6 mice will aid in future studies of RSV-specific T cell responses.
Captage postcombustion - amine et charbon propre
Authors:   Energy Sector, Natural Resources Canada
Published: January 2019

Ce projet, à l'échelle commerciale et pleinement intégré, comprend la reconstruction d'une centrale électrique existante alimentée au charbon, afin de produire 100 mégawatts (MW) d'énergie propre nets et de capter
jusqu'à 1 mégatonne de CO2 par année d'ici à 2015. Le CO2 sera initialement injecté dans le projet de RAP dans les champs de pétrole de Weyburn-Midale et sera ultérieurement injecté aux fins de séquestration permanente. Le projet Boundary Dam est un
partenariat entre le gouvernement du Canada, la province de la Saskatchewan, la SaskPower et l'industrie.
Integrated CCS Project
Authors:   Energy Sector, Natural Resources Canada
Published: January 2019

This project involves the capture of CO2 emissions from industrial sites in the Alberta Industrial Heartland. The captured CO2 will be transported to mature oil reservoirs in central Alberta, where it will be injected for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) purposes and
permanent sequestration. The project will capture CO2 from two initial sources - a large fertilizer plant and an oil sands upgrading operation (awaiting construction) - in order to demonstrate the feasibility of a single network to collect CO2 from a large number of industrial emitters. This
technology could be applied to many similar geological reservoirs throughout Alberta that are each capable of sequestering millions of tonnes of CO2. Within five years, this project could capture and sequester up to 1.9 Mt of CO2 annually, an amount equivalent to taking 358,000 cars off the road
each year. There is long-term potential for capture and storage of up to 15 Mt of CO2 annually. The project could also lead to the recovery of significant amounts of oil that cannot be reached by conventional methods.
Captage postcombustion - ammoniaque refroidie et charbon propre
Authors:   Energy Sector, Natural Resources Canada
Published: January 2019

Pioneer est un projet d'envergure de captage et de stockage de CO2 (CSC) envisagé pour l'une des centrales de l'entreprise située dans la région de Wabamun Lake. TransAlta propose de construire l'une des premières grandes installations de CSC
au monde, qui aura plusieurs vocations : l'intégration de la technologie de captage de pointe postcombustion, par le procédé de l'ammoniaque refroidie dans une centrale électrique, permettant le captage annuel de 1 mégatonne (Mt) de CO2; le transport du CO2 à des fins
de RAP vers un site de stockage géologique permanent; la démonstration de la sûreté et de la sécurité du stockage permanent à grande échelle dans les aquifères salins; et la réalisation d'énormes réductions en matière d'émissions
de CO2 d'ici à 2012.
Feasibility of CO2 storage in a saline aquifer
Authors:   Energy Sector, Natural Resources Canada
Published: January 2019

The five-year Aquistore Project, running from July 2008 to July 2013, will investigate the feasibility of storing CO2 in a saline aquifer. The project is a joint collaborative research venture between governments and industry that will capture 500 tonnes/day of
CO2 from the Consumers' Co-operative Refineries Limited's refinery in Regina, Saskatchewan. This CO2 will be transported and injected below the surface to a suitable deep saline aquifer reservoir. Storage will be monitored, measured and verified through various innovative, new technologies for
several years. Extensive Measurement, Monitoring and Verification (MMV) will study and ascertain the feasibility of long-term storage as a GHG mitigation strategy. Funding of $5 million (CDN) has been committed to the Aquistore.
Faisabilité du stockage de CO2 dans un aquifère salin
Authors:   Energy Sector, Natural Resources Canada
Published: January 2019

Le projet quinquennal Aquistore, qui sera réalisé de juillet 2008 à juillet 2013, permettra d'étudier la faisabilité du stockage de dioxyde de carbone (CO2) dans un aquifère salin. Ce projet de recherche, issu d'une collaboration
entre les gouvernements et l'industrie, permettra de capter quotidiennement 500 tonnes de CO2 émises par la raffinerie Consumers' Co-operative Refineries Limited, située à Regina, en Saskatchewan. Ce CO2 sera transporté et injecté sous la surface de l'eau dans un
réservoir aquifère salin d'une profondeur suffisante. Le stockage sera vérifié, contrôlé et mesuré pendant plusieurs années à l'aide de nouvelles technologies novatrices des plus variées. La procédure approfondie de vérification, de
contrôle et de mesure permettra d'étudier et de déterminer la faisabilité du stockage à long terme comme stratégie à adopter pour atténuer les émissions de gaz à effet de serre. Un financement de 5 millions de dollars canadiens a été
accordé pour le projet Aquistore.