bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promoting Smoke-Free Homes Through Biomarker Feedback Documenting Child Exposure to Tobacco Toxins: Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Thomas Janet Leigh , Schreier Meredith , Luo Xianghua , Lowry Sue , Hennrikus Deborah , An Lawrence , Wetter David W , Ahluwalia Jasjit S
Published: June 2019

Background

Exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) early in life increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), asthma, and respiratory illnesses. Since children’s primary exposure to SHS occurs in the home, these most vulnerable members of our society are not fully protected by recent increases in the adoption of smoking bans in public spaces. Although exposure to SHS is a quickly reversible cause of excess morbidity, few low-income homes strictly enforce smoking restrictions.

Objective

This study aims to test a novel approach to motivate the adoption of home smoking restrictions and to eliminate child SHS exposure by providing parents with objective data documenting home SHS exposure and “biomarker feedback” of child ingestion of tobacco toxins, that is, objective, laboratory-based results of assays performed on child urine, documenting levels of nicotine; cotinine; and NNAL (4-[methylnitrosamino]-1-[3-pyridyl]-1-butanol), which is a metabolite of the known tobacco carcinogen NNK (4-[methylnitro-samino]-1-[3-pyridyl]-1-butanone).

Methods

From 2011 to 2013, 195 low-income, female smokers with children aged ≤10 years residing in their homes were recruited into a two-arm randomized clinical trial. Participants were assigned to one of two groups: biomarker feedback (n=98) and health education (n=97). In-home assessments were administered at baseline, week 16, and week 26. Children’s home SHS exposure and nicotine, cotinine, and NNAL levels from urine samples, measured through a passive nicotine dosimeter and a surface sample of residual tobacco smoke (ie, thirdhand smoke), were collected at all three time points. Primary outcome was dosimeter-verified, self-reported complete home smoking restrictions at 6 months after randomization. Secondary outcomes included parental self-report of smoking behavior change and child urine tobacco toxin (biomarker) change.

Results

Data collection and analyses are complete, and the results are being interpreted.

Conclusions

The study protocol describes the development of a novel community-based controlled trial designed to examine the efficacy of biomarker feedback documenting home and child exposure to SHS on parental smoking behavior change.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR1-10.2196/12654
The Presence of Physical Symptoms in Patients With Tinnitus: International Web-Based Survey
Authors: Michiels Sarah , Harrison Stephen , Vesala Markku , Schlee Winfried
Published: June 2019

Background

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a phantom perception of sound in the absence of overt acoustic stimulation. Many patients indicate that the perception of their tinnitus is not constant and can vary from moment to moment. This tinnitus fluctuation is one of the diagnostic criteria for somatosensory tinnitus (ST), a tinnitus subtype that is influenced by cervical spine or temporomandibular dysfunctions, although various factors have been reported to cause fluctuations in tinnitus, such as stress, anxiety, and physical activity.

Objective

The aim of this study was twofold: (1) to investigate the presence of physical symptoms in a large group of participants with tinnitus and (2) to investigate if these physical symptoms are more frequently present in a subgroup of participants with ST.

Methods

A Web-based survey, questioning the presence of physical symptoms in a convenience sample of participants with tinnitus, was launched on the online forum, Tinnitus Talk, managed by Tinnitus Hub. After a general analysis of the physical symptoms present in our survey population, we further analyzed the group of participants who were diagnosed by a physician (n=1262). This subgroup was divided into 2 groups, one group diagnosed with ST and another group diagnosed with other types of tinnitus.

Results

In total, 6115 participants with a mean age of 54.08 years (SD 13.8) completed the survey. Physical symptoms were frequently present in our sample of participants with tinnitus: 4221 participants (69.02%) reported some form of neck pain, 429 (7.01%) were diagnosed with temporomandibular disorders, 2730 (44.64%) indicated they have bruxism, and between 858 and 1419 (14.03%-23.20%) participants were able to modulate their tinnitus by voluntary movements. ST was diagnosed in 154 out of 1262 (12.20%) participants whose tinnitus cause was diagnosed by a physician. Symptoms referring to the known diagnostic criteria were evidently more present in the ST group than in the non-ST group. Additionally, participants with ST more often indicated a negative effect of a bad night’s sleep (P=.01) and light intensity exercise (P=.01).

Conclusions

Physical activity and movement (disorders) frequently affect tinnitus severity. Head-neck related symptoms are more frequently reported in the ST group, as is the ability to modulate the tinnitus by head or jaw movements. Additionally, participants with ST more often report fluctuations of their tinnitus and reaction to sleeping difficulties and low intensity exercise.
The Need to Establish a New Format for Trade Political Relations between European Union and China
Authors: Puslecki Zdzislaw W.
Published: June 2019

In this research work, Author focus on the analysis the need to establish a new format for trade-political relations between European Union and People Republic of China. What indicates the importance and innovativeness of the research is the presentation of the technical progress especially in China, the growth of economic ties with the European Union and the benefits resulting from liberalised of the China foreign trade policy under WTO. Realistic point is important trends in the trade regime between EU and China. Their commercial relations are too important to become hostage to political grandstanding or airy rhetoric by politicians performing for domestic galleries. Europe is China’s largest export market, and China now ranks second on Europe’s list of key trading partners. Trade with China dwarfs any other trade relation Europe has with emerging Asia. Disturbing this relationship would have ramifications for sales, growth and employment. The Chinese government is less concerned today about Western criticisms of China’s autocratic system, but the Chinese people have grown more nationalistic and represent a potentially greater threat to commercial relations. Commercial interests in autocratic regimes cause political dilemmas. The main aim of the paper is the presentation the need to establish a new format for trade political relations between European Union and China.
“Setting the Free Thinker Free”: The Use of an Activist Archive to Analyze a Pivitol Moment in the History of the South African Communist Party (SACP)
Authors: Thomas David P.
Published: June 2019

This article draws extensively on an activist archive held at the University of Witwatersrand in order to analyze an important historical struggle within the South African Communist Party (SACP). A critical history of the crucial debates taking place within the SACP in the late 1990s is constructed from this archival material in order to explore the expulsion of Dr. Dale T. McKinley from the Party in 2000. The article argues that the expulsion of McKinley was a pivitol moment in the history of the SACP, and helps us understand the post-apartheid trajectory of the Party. Expelling McKinley fulfilled the SACP leadership’s goal of managing dissent at the rank-and-file level, and ensured that the Party’s loyalty to the ANC would remain an integral aspect of its strategy and tactics. Moreover, the use of this activist archive was absolutely essential in (re)constructing this critical story about the Party’s history.
Arquitetura estratigráfica dos depósitos fluviais albianos da base da Formação São Mateus no norte da Bacia do Espírito Santo
Authors: ALVARENGA Renata Dos Santos , SCHERER Claiton Marlon dos Santos , KUCHLE Juliano , DE ROS Luis Fernando
Published: June 2019

Os depósitos aluviais da Formação São Mateus (Albiano da Bacia do Espírito Santo, Brasil) consistem em importantes reservatórios. Entretanto, existem poucos trabalhos detalhando a estratigrafia deste intervalo estratigráfico. Em decorrência disso, este trabalho teve por objetivo estabelecer um fatiamento estratigráfico de alta resolução da seção basal desta unidade, a qual é constituída por depósitos fluviais. Diante das dificuldades apresentadas para a correlação estratigráfica desses depósitos, a estratégia de correlação utilizada foi a subdivisão da sucessão aluvial em ciclos estratigráficos. Este método se baseia na variação na razão entre as taxas de criação de acomodação e suprimento sedimentar (A:S) que diretamente controla o grau de amalgamação dos corpos arenosos de canais fluviais. Com isso, foram definidos seis ciclos compostos internamente por tratos de sistemas de alta e baixa acomodação. Esses ciclos refletem a  estruturação do arranjo da amalgamação dos canais fluviais com os depósitos externos aos canais através da razão entre a taxa de acomodação (A) e a taxa de influxo sedimentar (S) formando ciclos.
Análise comparativa entre arranjos de tomografia elétrica no reconhecimento de estruturas de fluxo em aquífero fraturado em Caçapava do Sul (RS)
Authors: MOREIRA César Augusto , HELENE Lívia Portes Innocenti , ROSA Fernanda Teles Gomes , HANSEN Marco Antônio Fontoura , MALAGUTTI FILHO Walter , DOURADO João Carlos
Published: June 2019

Este trabalho apresenta uma análise comparativa entre dados de tomografia elétrica de detalhe, obtidos sobre terreno granítico onde ocorre fluxo subterrâneo em sistema aquífero fraturado, adquiridos por meio dos arranjos dipolo-dipolo, Schlumberger e Wenner, na região de Caçapava do Sul (RS). Dados estruturais obtidos em exposições de rochas entre 100 m e 300 m da área de estudo serviram de base para análise dos produtos geofísicos e definição do modelo matemático mais factível a realidade geológica. O fraturamento predominante na região possui orientação E/W com dois sentidos principais de mergulho. Nos três arranjos de aquisição tomográfica analisados, foi possível o reconhecimento de zonas de baixa resistividade relacionadas ao acúmulo de água, com valores inferiores a 70 W.m, em contraste com valores superiores a 1000 W.m típicos de rocha inalterada. Os resultados referentes ao arranjo Schlumberger permitiram o modelamento 3D de uma superfície de baixa resistividade com orientação e mergulho compatíveis com sistemas de fraturas reconhecidos em afloramentos, em detrimento aos demais resultados, que não possibilitaram subsídios para uma definição adequada de locais para perfuração de poços.
Inventário de geossítios como instrumento de gestão e preservação da memória geológica: exemplo de geossítios vulneráveis da Bacia de Taubaté (São Paulo, Brasil)
Authors: REVERTE Fernanda Coyado , GARCIA Maria Da Glória Motta , BRILHA José , MOURA Thaís Trevisani
Published: June 2019

Localizada no segmento central do Rifte Continental do Sudeste do Brasil, na porção leste do Estado de São Paulo, a Bacia de Taubaté ocupa uma área de aproximadamente 2400 km2. A região representa um local-chave no entendimento da história geológica associada ao pós-Gondwana, apresentando elevada geodiversidade que tem sido afetada tanto por atividades antrópicas quanto pela ação de processos naturais. Por este motivo, como forma de promover a geoconservação de afloramentos representativos no contexto de evolução do rifte, foi realizado o inventário do patrimônio geológico na região. Para abranger todo este contexto geológico, três categorias foram definidas: (i) abertura da bacia; (ii) deformação e deposição neógena; e (iii) deformação quaternária e evolução do relevo. Inicialmente 38 potenciais geossítios foram identificados por meio de levantamento bibliográfico, consulta a pesquisadores e trabalhos de campo. Após a etapa de campo, verificou-se que muitos dos pontos descritos na literatura foram destruídos ou encontram-se extremamente alterados, de modo que apenas 18 geossítios compõem o inventário final. A avaliação qualitativa do inventário revela que as ações antrópicas, tais como obras de infraestrutura e atividades de mineração, correspondem ao principal fator de perda da geodiversidade local. Por isso, os resultados deste inventário devem ser considerados nas políticas públicas de gestão territorial, possibilitando o prosseguimento de estudos futuros nestes locais, de forma a conservar a memória geocientífica deste importante segmento do sudeste do Brasil.
Participation of youth in local level governance: developing country case study
Authors: Jengre Enock , Kpinpuo Stephen D.
Published: June 2019

This study investigates the factors that influence youth participation in local level governance in Ghana, a developing country. The Upper West Region was selected as a case study for this research. Through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews, as well as analysis of policy documents, the study reveals that the youth are more skillful in the use of technology and other strategic interventions to help address local, national, and global issues. Nonetheless, they are often marginalized and discriminated by their older partners at the Wa Municipal Assembly (WMA). Factors such as institutional barriers, partisan politicking, and inadequate resources account for much of the limitations placed on youth participation in the WMA. Given that the youth constitute more than half of Ghana`s population and 36% of the population of Wa, it is important to rethink the place of the youth in the management of the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies
The practices of mathematics education doctoral students
Authors: Monaghan John
Published: June 2019

This paper looks at the practices (or praxeologies) of mathematics education doctoral students and their supervisors from the perspectives of activity theory and the anthropological theory of the didactic. The paper examines three ways to view mathematics education research before discussing : research methods and methodologies ; the debate on qualitative and quantitative research ; and implications for the supervision of doctoral students.
Economía, ecología y normatividad en la teoría antropológica de lo didáctico
Authors: Gascón Josep , Nicolás Pedro
Published: June 2019

. Si bien nadie afirmaría que ciencias tales como la física o la biología puedan emitir juicios valorativos y normativos, la cuestión es más problemática en el caso de las denominadas ciencias sociales. En efecto, al principio del siglo XX tuvo lugar una importante controversia, en la que Max Weber desempeñó un papel destacado, sobre si las ciencias sociales como la sociología y la economía podían, e incluso debían, emitir juicios de valor, y no parece que actualmente la controversia esté completamente zanjada. En este trabajo plantearemos abiertamente la cuestión del tipo de aseveraciones que la didáctica puede emitir y propondremos una respuesta desde la teoría antropológica de lo didáctico (TAD) como punto de partida de un diálogo con otros enfoques teóricos en didáctica.
On an axiological dimension of rigour in school mathematics
Authors: Bourgade Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we seek to identify some elements of a professional teaching logos regarding rigour and point out an paxiological dimension of this logos. In contrast to a more autonomous approach to rigour in the field of mathematical production, many teachers’ justifications to their expectations about rigour are based on ethical or aesthetical grounds. The exploration of a possible link between this axiologisation of rigour and the social reproduction of the profession of mathematics teacher is also considered
Des liens entre l’organisation de savoir et l’organisation de l’étude dans l’analyse praxéologique
Authors: Artuad Michèle
Published: June 2019

. L’élaboration d’un modèle praxéologique demande de distinguer entre les éléments de l’organisation de savoir enjeu de l’étude, d’une part, et, d’autre part, certains ingrédients de l’organisation de l’étude qui permet l’émergence de cette organisation de savoir. Que peut-on mettre dans le modèle d’une praxéologie et que ne peut-on y intégrer ? Quels sont les aspects d’une organisation de l’étude qui peuvent venir s’intégrer dans une organisation de savoir et comment peuvent-ils le faire ? Quels problèmes cela pose-t-il ? Ce sont principalement ces questions que nous examinons à partir d’exemples pris dans l’étude des mathématiques, et leur examen nous permet de mettre en évidence une manifestation de la contrainte du refoulement du didactique au cœur même travail des didacticiens.
PENYUSUNAN ANGGARAN PERSPEKTIF FIQHI ANGGARAN HUKUM EKONOMI SYARIAH
Authors: Arno Abd Kadir
Published: June 2019

In managing the budget, honesty (shidq) is a liability, which can’t be executed unless the application of the principle of budget transparency. Therefore, based on the rules then, do the transparency of the budget is mandatory. In the view of Islam, avoiding the transparency of the budget is disobedience. The application of the basic values of Islamic law in the preparation of the budget becomes extremely important in anticipating the leak. In this context the existence of fiqh budget is very urgent, because it is not just for the sake of personal interest but also the public. Therefore the parties involved in the preparation of the budget should be linked by law, so that the consequences of which can be accounted for before the courts in case of fraud
DAMPAK IMPLEMENTASI ZAKAT PRODUKTIF
Authors: Abdullah Muh. Ruslan
Published: June 2019

Zakat is the third pillar of Islam that is considered to have a significant role in overcoming various economic problems, problems-problems are: 1. Unemployment, 2. Poverty , 3. Load the crisis and accounts payable, 4. The economy is bad, 5. Hoarding possessions. productive zakat is implemented in the form of venture capital assistance, resource assistance effort so that people can rise from the economic downturn. Distribution of zakat productively contributes greatly to the economy of poor community
PANDANGAN HUKUM EKONOMI SYARIAH TERHADAP HARGA LELANG BARANG JAMINAN
Authors: Syarief Arzalsyah
Published: June 2019

In the perspective of Islamic Economics auction collateral, is permitted with a note using the pillars of purchase, the terms of buying and selling and general conditions of sale and purchase, ranging from notice to customers that the goods are used as collateral has passed the due time, notice the condition of goods such guarantees, tender preparation until the results of the auction the collateral. Then the auction price realized collateral and must fulfill the will of rapprochement agreement between the seller and the buyer. The auction fee charged to the buyer is not intended to raise the price, but for the interests of the State and the fund will be used as a tax. while in the process of being auctioned pledge collateral offered to customers who first did a deal with the official sanctioning body in this case sharia pawnshops
KONSEP IQTHA’ PEMBERIAN TANAH KEPADA MASYARAKAT DALAM PEMIKIRAN EKONOMI AL-MAWARDI (STUDI KITAB AL-AHKAM ALSULTANIYYAH)
Authors: Mujahidin Mujahidin
Published: June 2019

Land is part of the earth as the ultimate gift of God which is governed by the State and used for the greatest prosperity of the people as mandated by the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia. This research will raise the concept of iqtha 'in Islamic government through Al-Mawardi's thought in his book al-ahkam al-sultaniyyah by comparing it with the Indonesian land management sistem. The purpose of this study was to find out the concept of iqta 'in Islamic governance through the thinking of AlMawardi in his book al-ahkam al-sultaniyyah. Al-Mawardi in his book that iqtha is the giving of land to the community by the head of state, but the land that can be given is land which is his authority, namely no-man's land and abandoned land and no one manages it in the Indonesian context. bertuan but wild land (waste land) or referred to as vacant land and it is all controlled by the State except those cultivated by the community or residents with rights originating from the right to open land.
PERAN OTORITAS JASA KEUANGAN DALAM MENGAWASI RESIKO PEMBIAYAAN DALAM INVESTASI “BODONG”
Authors: Arno Abd Kadir , Assad A Ziaul
Published: June 2019

This article gives an overview of the role of financial services authorities in monitoring the risk of financing from investment that occurs in the community, the data used in this article are primary data in the form of laws and books relating to financial services authorities and financial and material risks secondary in the form of other reference materials that support the writing of this article. This article uses in-depth analysis techniques, which are to thoroughly examine and analyze the context discussed in this article. The conclusion of this article is that in every investment activity carried out in the community, it will have potential risks in the future, especially when there is a fraudulent investment in the community, therefore to overcome the existence of financial services authorities have the following roles: how to disseminate and inform the public about the characteristics of fundraising and financing, through seminars, and the Group Focus Discussion by involving academics as presenters 2) Facilitating dispute resolution between parties to disputes related to financing carried out by communities in a fictitious investment 3) Making regulations (regulation) as a form of protection so that there are no fraudulent investment activities in the community and 4) Making Investment Alert Task Force (Satgas) in each province in the archipelago.
MEMAHAMI REKSADANA SYARIAH: INSTRUMEN KEUANGAN BERBASIS SYARIAH
Authors: Sumar'in Sumar'in
Published: June 2019

In finance, investment is buying or creating an asset with the expectation of capital appreciation, dividends (profit), interest earnings, rents, or some combination of these returns. This may or may not be backed by research and analysis. Most or all forms of investment involve some form of risk, such as investment in equities, property, and even fixed interest securities which are subject, among other things, to inflation risk. A mutual fund is simply a financial intermediary that allows a group of investors to pool their money together with a predetermined investment objective. The mutual fund will have a fund manager who is responsible for investing the pooled money into specific securities (usually stocks or bonds). The ruling with regards to mutual funds from an Islamic perspective can be determined by understanding the Shar’i ruling on shares and bonds.
FATWA EKONOMI SYARIAH DI INDONESIA
Authors: Marwing Anita
Published: June 2019

This article aims to review the fatwa concerning sharia economics in Indonesia which includes the method and process of establishing a fatwa on sharia economics and fatwa on sharia economics issued by the National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council. This institution has the duty to explore, study, formulate the values and principles of Islamic law (syariah) to be used as guidelines in transaction activities in Islamic financial institutions, as well as oversee their implementation and implementation. This guideline is then poured in the form of fatwa by paying attention to the general welfare and maqashid syari'ah so that the fatwa can truly answer the problems that arise in the community and can truly be an alternative that can be used as a guide in running a sharia economic business in Indonesia.
The Ontogenetic Development Prerequisites of Physical Activities in the Aquatic Environment in Early Childhood
Authors: Nováková Tereza , Čechovská Irena
Published: June 2019

The text deals with neurophysiological and kinesiological developmental principles associated with the early development of young children as the fundamental prerequisites for physical education in the aquatic environment. Swimming in infancy and early childhood using the developmental principles and understanding of individual variability represent enormous potential to create a positive attitude of the child to exercise in aquatic environments. We believe that the experience with these basic tasks can play a key role in future exercise habits and swimming literacy of the individual. Parents attending infant swimming courses led by an instructor acquire practical skills and deeper insight into principles of their child's motor learning. All activities in the aquatic environment at an early age should allow transfer of child’s experiences to preswimming education and result in full swimming literacy.
Developing Expertise in Sport Coaching Through Engagement with Disability Programmes
Authors: Crisp Philippe
Published: June 2019

Numerous academic and practitioner research has examined the role of Higher Education Institutions (HEI) in the development of sport coaches in the UK (e.g. Crisp 2018; Stoszkowski and Collins 2018). However, whilst most fields related to coach development have significant bodies of work underpinning them, there is a dearth of information related to best practice within the context of disability sport coaching. Given that both coach learning in the HEI context and disability sports coaching are significant areas worthy of further exploration, this work investigates how learning can be developed through disability sport coaching in the HEI context. The aims of this study were to gather the perceptions, thoughts, and experiences of ten student-coaches enrolled on an HEI coaching programme who were completing a year long placement module that included sessions for participants with disabilities. Data were collected through two focus group meetings with the student-coaches and the submission of learning journals. Inductive analysis showed that coaching disability groups facilitated learning through generating knowledge from practice through a process of reflection, higher order thinking, and meta-cognition. This suggests that using disability coaching can be a useful tool for HEIs to use in terms of challenging student-coach practice and education.
Algerian Sport High School as Comprehensive Approach for Improving Public Education System
Authors: Madani Reguig , Zerf Mohammed , Bouabdellah SBA
Published: June 2019

In 2001 Algerian Governmental created Sport High School (HSA). Its main mission is education, training and development of young talents by providing all the conditions to serve their healthy sports path. Firstly, by intensifying their daily sports as school-based health education program designed to improve their physical status relates to their healthy lifestyle. Disclosed by evaluation tool design to detect their physical abilities as well as their longitudinal followings. Used in present as evaluation scale to inspect imprudence related to the objectives of Algerian public schools (HPA). For proposing this comparative study test 1 000 High School student, 800 boys and 200 girls for academic years 2017 – 2018. The evaluation focused on measuring anthropometric parameters - age, weight, height and BMI as well as physical qualities - speed (30 m), the explosive force vertical (VJ), explosive force of the arms (medicine ball throw 3 kg (MB), flexibility trunk (FT)), endurance abdominal muscles (maximum of <4 sit-ups > in one minute (EAM) and aerobic endurance (20m shuttle test (VO2max)). Controlled by rating scales produced by Iaiche Rezoug. Based on the scale provided by this latter, our results proclaims the generalization of perspectives implemented in Algerian Sport High School as school-based physical health education program designed to reduce the consequences of overweight on health-related to physical performance. Estimated by rating scales produced by Iaiche Rezoug, which could serve as a model database refining the impact of the two Algerian educational systems, as an approach suggesting a clear direction for the development of adequate programs for the larger populations of Algerian scholars.
Capacities of African-oriented Polish NGOs: a quantitative approach
Authors: Frankowska Agata , Łęcka Izabella , Frankowski Jan
Published: June 2019

The aim of the paper is to investigate the capacity of Polish non-governmental organisations implementing development projects in Africa. Drawing on an integrated systemic perspective of capacity that recognises internal and external factors, this paper focuses on internal factors. Using a quantitative approach to operationalise capacity, the study suggests that those non-governmental organisations implementing the Polish development policy in Africa are highly polarised and can be divided in two groups. Whilst the first group comprises two fairly large organisations with long track records and the ability to fundraise internationally, the second group consists of smaller NGOs of different capacities and working strategies. Most Polish NGOs operate within independent networks – Catholic and secular ones. The study identifies a research gap related to the lack of comprehensive study of religious organisations’ contribution to development assistance in Africa.
Post-industrial university towns and the triple helix concept: case studies of Bristol, Sheffield, Novosibirsk and Tomsk
Authors: Oplakanskaia Renata Valerievna , Osmuk Lyudmila Alekseevna , Pogorelskaya Anastasia , Pomorina Inna
Published: June 2019

The paper examines the role of universities in city development under the Triple Helix model through case studies of Russian and British cities. The cases of Bristol and Sheffield illustrate that the implementation of the Triple Helix model can be achieved through different approaches. In Bristol, universities reached beyond their campuses to create a ground for cooperation with partners. In Sheffield, there was a platform for interaction with partners using the brand of a top university. Meanwhile, the examples of Tomsk and Novosibirsk provide some evidence for the growing importance of universities in the innovative urban economy. The comparative analysis provides recommendations for Russian universities, whose application of the Triple Helix model is prevented by the lack of experience in developing an effective marketing strategy and weak interactions between research and enterprises.
Foreign Trade of the Republic of Belarus in the International Business Environment
Authors: Hrechyshkina Olena , Samakhavets Maryia
Published: June 2019

The aim of the paper is to assess the current state, problems and prospects for the development of foreign trade in the Republic of Belarus in the international business environment. The evaluation of foreign trade indicators is based on information from different sources and on comparative economic analysis research methods. Our results indicate the export-oriented economy of the Republic of Belarus, and its dependence on the state of foreign markets and the international business environment. The identified problems in the development of Belarusian merchandise exports are due to the orientation towards primary products, and to poor diversification of products and geographical destination. Particular attention is paid to the internal and external factors restraining exports from the Republic of Belarus. Further development requires the full use of the Belarusian export potential and the implementation of measures to promptly resolve the export difficulties on international markets that stem from internal and external factors.
Demographic changes in Polish cities in the years 1950-2016
Authors: Szymańska Daniela , Wylon Mirosław
Published: June 2019

The study presents the demographic development of big cities (≥100,000 inhabitants within the city’s administrative borders) in Poland from 1950 to 2016. The article demonstrates the similarities and differences in these cities’ demographic development, showing demographic trends in Poland’s various periods of socio-economic development using the graphical trajectory method. The presented study on demographic development of Polish cities uses trajectories, showing them to be an additional useful tool in analyses of demographic development of cities, regions and other territorial units. It was indicated that this simple graphic representation opens new interpretative possibilities; it demonstrates development stages, shows both the process nature (demographic development of cities in this case), and whether this process is progressive or regressive in nature. The trajectory method allows us to read the dynamics of changes in a particular process (in the distances between successive trajectory points).
A multidimensional analysis of spatial order in public spaces: a case study of the town Morąg, Poland
Authors: Szczepańska Agnieszka , Pietrzyk Katarzyna
Published: June 2019

Centrally located public spaces, such as old towns, are an important feature of historic towns. They are often the most characteristic and representative element of a town that brings together members of the local community, plays various sociological and social roles and promotes direct interactions between the users of space. Only high-quality public spaces can effectively fulfil their role. The aim of this study was to analyse spatial order in public spaces on the example of the Old Town district of Morąg in North-Eastern Poland. The quality of public spaces was analysed with the use of a self-designed method, a field inventory and a questionnaire survey involving 100 members of the local community who were asked to evaluate the quality of public spaces in the town. The results of the comparison were used to identify public spaces that require revitalisation. The study demonstrates that spatial order directly influences the quality of public spaces. Our findings indicate that multidimensional analyses of spatial order and opinion surveys provide valuable inputs and should be included in studies evaluating the quality of public spaces.
Reading and Writing to Learn: A Principled Approach to Practice in CLIL/Bilingual Classes
Authors: Ahern Aoife , Whittaker Rachel , Sánchez Isabel Blecua
Published: June 2019

This article introduces a literacy programme based on a linguistic approach to teaching reading and writing across the curriculum, Reading to Learn (Rose, “Reading to Learn: Accelerating Learning”; Rose and Martin), with proven effectiveness for accelerating literacy development in both the L1 (e.g. Rose and Acevedo, among other studies) and for L2 in Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) and programmes. Underlying the pedagogy are powerful theories of language, educational psychology and sociology which are applied to text analysis, lesson preparation and classroom interaction around reading and writing. Teachers starting to use the pedagogy see immediate results in students’ engagement and learning, and the written texts they produce. The pedagogy is based on a functional analysis of a text from the curriculum – its structure and the way its language makes meaning in that subject-, and on scaffolding/ modelling the processes of reading and writing with the whole class. In this paper, we offer a brief presentation of some strategies from the R2L pedagogy, and provide examples of text analysis, teacher preparation and application in state bilingual schools in Spain.
Ten Fundamentals for Novice CLIL Teachers
Authors: Couto-Cantero Pilar , Bobadilla-Pérez María
Published: June 2019

The main aim of this paper is to provide novice CLIL teachers with advice on key areas related to the implementation of this approach. This is done through the presentation of ‘ten fundamentals’ with their corresponding literature review, activities and suggestions contextualised within the framework of a defined Teaching and Learning Unit, and a final tip, all of which, it is hoped will empower future CLIL teachers in their classroom practice. Materials have been designed by the authors according to the Spanish National Curriculum and the textbook selected to use as an example is: Natural Science 6. In Focus for 6th year at Primary School Level with content designed by Spencer and published by Anaya.
Toward an Efficient Resolution for a Single-machine Bi-objective Scheduling Problem with Rejection
Authors: Moghaddam Atefeh , Teghem Jacques , Tuyttens Daniel , Yalaoui Farouk , Amodeo Lionel
Published: June 2019

We consider a single-machine bi-objective scheduling problem with rejection. In this problem, it is possible to reject some jobs. Four algorithms are provided to solve this scheduling problem. The two objectives are the total weighted completion time and the total rejection cost. The aim is to determine the set of efficient solutions. Four heuristics are described; they are implicit enumeration algorithms forming a branching tree, each one having two versions according to the root of the tree corresponding either to acceptance or rejection of all the jobs. The algorithms are first illustrated by a didactic example. Then they are compared on a large set of instances of various dimension and their respective performances are analysed.
Formulation Studies of Solid Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System of Ivermectin
Authors: Patel Vipul P. , Lakkad Hardik A. , Ashara Kalpesh Chhotalal
Published: June 2019

Background: The suggested dose of ivermectin is 300 μG/kg/day for onchocerciasis but it has low water solubility and poor oral bioavailability.

Aim: To prepare and evaluate a solid lipid-based self-emulsifying drug delivery system of ivermectin.

Materials and methods: Based on supersaturated solubility study, oil, surfactant, and co-surfactant were selected. On the basis of ternary phase diagrams and simplex-lattice design, self-emulsifying, drug delivery formulations had been developed and optimized. Ivermectin-excipients compatibility studies were performed using differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Solid self-emulsifying drug delivery formulation was formulated from the optimized batch by surface assimilation method and filled into hard gelatin capsules. In vitro release rate and in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters of ivermectin from the capsules were determined. Two-tailed paired t-test/Dunnett multiple comparison tests were performed for in vivo pharmacokinetic parameter at 95 % of confidence level.

Results: Soybeans oil, tween 80, and span 80 were selected as oil, surfactant, and co-surfactant respectively. The ternary diagrams were shown the maximum area for emulsion in 1:2 surfactant/co-surfactant ratio. The optimized batch had found with 30 mg ivermectin, 6.17 g soybeans oil, 0.30 g tween 80, and 3.50 g span 80. All differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared characteristic peaks of the optimized formulation were identical with that of pure ivermectin. The area under the curve of ivermectin from the capsule was about two-fold higher than that of ivermectin suspension.

Conclusions: Solid self-emulsifying drug delivery system was an effective oral solid dosage form to improve the oral bioavailability of ivermectin.
Triterpenoid and Fatty Acid Contents from the Stem Bark of Cordia dichotoma (Forst f.)
Authors: Nariya Pankajkumar B. , Shukla Vinay J. , Acharya R. N. , Nariya Mukeshkumar B. , Dhalani Jayesh M. , Patel Anilkumar S. , Ambasana Pratik A.
Published: June 2019

Aim: To isolate and determine the chemical constituents of the stem bark of Cordia dichotoma (Forst f.), a plant used for medicinal purpose in folk medicine.

Materials and methods: Petroleum ether extract of the stem bark was used for this study. Saponification process was performed to separate fatty acid and unsaponifiable matter.

Results: One triterpenoids, α-amyrin was isolated from the bark by using isocratic elution. The chemical compounds isolated, for the first time, were analyzed by GC/MS, IR, and UV. The chemical composition of the fatty acids methyl esters (FAMEs) in bark of Cordia dichotoma were also analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. After methyl-esterification, 17 components were identified in the bark. The derivatization conditions were investigated in order to validate this method.

Conclusion: The present analysis revealed that Cordia dichotoma stem bark contains 17 fatty acid. The principal themes of the review highlight the development and application of chromatographic techniques for the separation, isolation and detection of the compounds.
Structural and Functional MRI Techniques in Multiple Sclerosis Related Cognitive Dysfunction
Authors: Iancheva Dessislava , Trenova Anastasiya , Mantarova Stefka , Terziyski Kiril
Published: June 2019

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system that is prevalent in young adults and therefore with significant social impact. Cognitive impairment occurs in 40% to 70% of patients with MS and has a weak correlation with disease duration. Neuropsycho-logical assessment is a standard method in the detection of cognitive dysfunction. However, in order to understand the etiology and evolution of cognitive dysfunction, several elaborate magnetic resonance techniques have been developed. Their aim is to measure structural changes in the CNS that are considered main substrates in cognitive function such as whole brain and gray matter atrophy, cortical lesions and changes in subcortical gray matter. Evidence shows that the clinical manifestations of multiple sclerosis are complex interactions between tissue damage, tissue repair and cortical reorganization. In order to study this heterogeneity, structural magnetic resonance analysis of brain morphology and functional magnetic resonance imaging are essential. This review summarizes current techniques in structural MRI and the value of functional MRI in understanding the link between cognitive deficit and cortical activation and reorganization.
Accuracy of Different Apex Locators in Teeth with Simulated Apical Root Resorption: an In Vitro Study
Authors: Jadhav Ganesh Ranganath , Mittal Priya , Patil Vishal , Kandekar Prashant , Kulkarni Anish , Shinde Siddharth , Syed Shibli , Elahi Saina
Published: June 2019

Background: Accurate working length (WL) determination is necessary in achieving optimal healing by non-surgical root canal therapy in teeth with inflammatory apical root resorption. Electronic apex locators (EALs) are one of the mainstays in determination of WL of teeth.

Aim: This study evaluated the accuracy of three EALs [RootZX (third generation), iPex (fourth generation) and Raypex 6 (modification of a fifth generation)] in determining the WL of teeth with simulated apical root resorption in permanent teeth.

Materials and methods: Forty freshly extracted maxillary anterior teeth were collected and a 45° oblique cut was made at the root apex with a disc to simulate apical root resorption. Actual working length (AWL) was determined by direct visual method and was used as a control. Electronic working length (EWL) values were measured by three different apex locators that are RootZX (Group I), iPex (Group II) and Raypex 6 (Group III) at apex, 0.5 mm and 1 mm from apex. All values obtained were tabulated and statistical evaluation was carried out.

Results: At apex, EWL obtained using iPex (p=0.05) showed a statistically significant difference from AWL. At 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm tolerance, iPex showed non-acceptability for WL measurement in 67.5% and 17.5% of samples compared to Root ZX (12.5% and 2.5%) and Raypex (7.5% and none) respectively.

Conclusion: Within the limitation of this study, it can be concluded that Raypex 6 and RootZX show statistically significant accuracy in WL measurement compared with iPex in teeth with apical root resorption.
Antioxidant Activity of Dry Birch (Betula Pendula) Leaves Extract
Authors: Penkov Dimitar , Andonova Velichka , Delev Delian , Kostadinov Ilia , Kassarova Margarita
Published: June 2019

Background: Betula pendula is widespread in Europe and Asia. It has been used in traditional medicine since ancient times. Birch leaf extracts are known to exhibit a number of pharmacological activities. Antioxidant activity has also been reported.

Aim: The aim of this work was to investigate the antioxidant activity of a dry leaf extract from Betula pendula Roth.

Materials and methods: The total flavonoid content was determined. Some of the most commonly used methods were applied to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of the extract in vitro and in vivo. The ability of the extract to scavenge DPPH free radicals was evaluated by the method described by Brand-Williams with suitable modifications. ABTS decolorization assay was also applied. The in vivo assay was performed after acute and chronic administration of the extract into white albino rats, in a dose of 100 and 500 mg/kg bw. The antioxidant potential of the plasma was determined using FRAP reagent.

Results: A total flavonoid content of 42.5 mg/g was found, expressed as quercetin. The antioxidant activity against ABTS was concentration and time dependent. For example the concentration of 200 μg/ml led to 70.95% – 99.46% scavenging activity. DPPH scavenging activity was found to be about 98% at a concentration of 80 μg/ml. The extract possesses antioxidant potential, comparable with that of Trolox, in acute application. In chronic application, poorer results are observed, probably due to biotransformation and elimination processes.

Conclusion: Dried birch leaf extract has a relatively high antioxidant potential and could be used as a natural source of antioxidants.
The Role of Antiobesity Agents in the Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Chatzis Panagiotis , Tziomalos Konstantinos , Pratilas Georgios C. , Makris Vasileios , Sotiriadis Alexandros , Dinas Konstantinos
Published: June 2019

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the commonest endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Obesity is frequently present in these patients and plays a key role in the pathogenesis of both the endocrine and metabolic abnormalities of the syndrome, particularly infertility, hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance (IR). Diet and exercise is the mainstay of management of obesity in patients with PCOS. In contrast, the eff ects of antiobesity agents on weight and on the obesityrelated characteristics of the syndrome remain unclear. The aim of the present review is to summarize the current data on the eff ects of antiobesity drugs approved in Europe (orlistat, liraglutide 3 mg od and naltrexone/bupropion) on weight loss in patients with PCOS and to discuss their impact on the endocrine, reproductive and metabolic abnormalities of this population. Several studies reported that orlistat induces weight loss, improves IR and reduces androgen levels in PCOS. In contrast, data regarding the eff ects of the dose of liraglutide that is approved for the treatment of obesity (3 mg od) are very limited. Liraglutide 1.2-1.8 mg od results in weight loss in these patients but does not aff ect IR or androgen levels. Finally, there are no studies that evaluated naltrexone/bupropion in patients with PCOS and early studies reported conflicting results regarding the eff ects of naltrexone monotherapy on weight, IR and androgen levels. In conclusion, orlistat appears to have a role in the management of overweight and obese patients with PCOS whereas more studies are needed to clarify the role of liraglutide and naltrexone/bupropion.