bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Escherichia Coli from laying chicken and egg in Jimma Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Taddese Diriba , Shumi Eshetu , Asefa Mestewot
Published: January 2020

Objectives Food borne diseases are one of the main important issues in the world. Escherichia coli are considered as the most prevalent food borne pathogen. A cross sectional study was conducted from January 6- 2018 to September 10-2019 on cloacae swab; farm and market’s egg at Jimma town to isolate, identify and determine antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. Result Out of 415 total samples, 156 (37.59%) were identified as E. coli from farm eggshell 21/83 (25.30%), farm egg content 12/83 (14.46%), cloacae swab 42/83 (50.60%) and market egg shell 45/83 (54.23%). In the current study antimicrobial susceptibility test of E. coli isolates from different sample types revealed varying degree of susceptibility to antimicrobial. Isolated E. coli was highly susceptible to Ciprofloxacin (100%), Gentamicine (100%), Streptomycin ( 96.4% ) , sulfonamides (94%), Kanamycin (91%), Chloramphenicol ( 89.5% ) , tetraccine (78.9%) , Trimethoprim (75%) these are considered appropriate for empirical treatment of E. coli in the study area. Moreover, resistance of isolates with 100%, 75% 50%, 25%, 1.6% and 0.5% was developed to ampicillin, neomycin, cefoxitin oxytetracycline , Streptomycin and tetraccine respectively. The presence of E.coli within egg/and chicken can pose serious public health problems. The appropriate hygienic practices of eggs at both farms and markets should be under taken.
Reliability of Physical Activity Pattern Questionnaire for Elders 
Authors: cho min-haeng
Published: January 2020

Background Since it is important for elders to do physical activity regularly, many countries including South Korea have followed physical activity recommendations on the dose-response relationship between the frequency, duration, intensity, and type of physical activity for health. Although many studies have focused on the dose-response relationship of physical activity with health benefits for older adults, there is little information available and practical to measure physical active lifestyle whether they meet the recommendations of physical activity.Objective The purpose of this study is to assess the test-retest reliability of the newly developed physical activity pattern questionnaire in repeated assessments performed by older adults aged 65 years and above.Methods Of the 200 questionnaires, 117 residents aged over 65 who were participating in recreational programs provided by the community centers (senior center, residential culture center, and sport center) completed the survey. The test-retest repeatability was assessed using the Cohen’s kappa statistics.Results The reliability coefficient showed good to high internal consistency throughout. The alpha statistic was 0.658 for questions on flexibility activity participation, 0.666 for questions on aerobic activity participation, and 0.935 for questions on muscular activity participation.Conclusions This paper made an important methodological contribution to the assessment of physical activity by showing that when creating a more accurate and comfortable tool for measuring physical activity it is necessary to take into account the global physical activity recommendations. In conclusion, the author found excellent or good reproducibility at a four week interval for all questions that survey physical activity pattern among elders and know whether they meet the global physical activity recommendations.
Industry manufacturers rating by sales proﬁt and pre-tax proﬁt in 2017
Authors: Romanova S.
Published: January 2020

The medical device manufacturers rating by pre-tax profit and sales profit was prepared using the state accounting reports of 60 leading manufacturers in the industry. Only profitable medical device manufacturers were included in the rating.

The pre-tax profit and sales profit of the medical device manufacturers  included in the 2017 rating increased  by 9.15% and 9.55% compared to the previous year and amounted to RUB 4.502 bil. and RUB 5.605 bil.

In addition  to  pre-tax  profit  and sales  profit  indicators  in  absolute  terms,  relative  indicators  were  used  to  carry out comprehensive assessment of the  industry  manufacturers  performance.  The relative  indicators  included  such  criteria  as pre-tax profit and sales profit gains as compared to the previous year. The manufacturers  rating was determined  using one of the mathematical methods, which is called the sum of rankings.
Establishment of primary cell lines from tissues of the red-eared slider
Authors: Kulak Maria , Galkina Svetlana , Saifitdinova Alsu , Gaginskaya Elena
Published: January 2020

Primary cell lines of the red-eared slider were established from somatic slider tissues cultivated in appropriate medium for a certain period. Exponential cell growth started after 2 weeks of continuous cultivating. The cells were of various morphology resembling keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and melanocytes, some of them gathered to form dense conglomerates similar to so-called “embryoid bodies”. The cell lines were maintained for 3–7 passages before being taken for cytogenetic manipulations. Red-eared slider cell lines derived in this way can be cryopreserved and successfully recovered to provide a source of fixed cells for 3D imaging as well as a source of chromosomes and chromatin fiber preparations for cytological and cytogenetic studies. The protocol for red-eared slider cells was developed on the basis of the experiments described.
Increasing corvid tolerance to humans in urban ecosystems with increasing latitude
Authors: Poddubnaya Nadezhda , Korotkova Tatyana , Vanicheva Polina
Published: January 2020

The rapid growth of cities causes behaviour changes in birds in response to urban environmental factors. The avian response to human disturbance has recently been studied by a non-invasive research tool as an alert distance (AD) and a flight initiation distance (FID) assessment. The tolerance of hooded crows (n = 395), jackdaws (n = 394) and rooks (n = 169) to humans was assessed by AD and FID. It was shown that the FID of all species is maximal during the summer, when the parents send clear “danger—fly away” signals to the young and the birds fly away. The AD and FID of the three species reliably correlates with the season. Rooks showed FID species-specificity in seven cities of Eastern Europe. Comparison of the attitude of birds to people in cities that have similarities in human culture showed that tolerance increases with increasing latitude in all species and is statistically significant only in the jackdaw. This should be taken into account in environmental protection measures.
Modelling the effects of climate change on urban coastal-fluvial flooding
Authors: Kirkpatrick Jennifer Isabel Munro , Olbert Agnieszka Indiana
Published: January 2020

In coastal floodplains, high river flows and high coastal water levels can result in extensive flooding. Twenty-first century climate change is expected to alter these flood mechanisms. In this study, a coastal city of Cork, Ireland is used as a case study to investigate changes in flood mechanisms, dynamics and extents due to climate change. A hydrodynamic flood model MSN_Flood was used to compute potential future inundation patterns for a range of climate scenarios based on estimates of current, medium-range and high-end projections of extreme river flows and sea levels. Results illustrate that the flood mechanism is critical in controlling patterns and extent of inundation. Peak river discharges are the primary contributor to extreme flood events under the current climate scenario, however, high-end climate change could result in coastal inundation of comparable magnitude. The most extreme flood events affect the entire city centre – occurring as a result of a combination of fluvial and coastal drivers. The interaction of extreme fluvial discharges and coastal water levels is complex and characterised through comparison of multiple scenarios. This research establishes a best practice methodology for assessment of urban coastal-fluvial flood risk under a changing climate and can be used to determine climate-resilient flood management measures.
Water and sanitation are not gender-neutral: human rights in rural Brazilian communities
Authors: Silva Bárbarah Brenda , Sales Bárbara , Lanza Ana Carolina , Heller Léo , Rezende Sonaly
Published: January 2020

The Human Rights to Water and Sanitation (HRWS), adopted as UN Resolutions since 2010, contemplates key elements that seek to ensure equal and non-discriminatory access to water and sanitation, including the elimination of gender inequalities. Working in populations with socio-environmental vulnerabilities, this study aims to assess gender division of labor in households of two rural communities in the North and Northeast Brazilian macroregions and identify why greater impacts occur on the lives of women when compared to men, resulting in human rights concerns. A qualitative analysis was carried out through semi-structured interviews and direct observation. The study showed that in the two rural Brazilian communities there is a clear labor division for water and sanitation access from a gender perspective. Men undertake more specialized work, sometimes requiring greater physical effort. As for women, they are assigned functions related to the domestic environment, including activities concerning water and sanitation. When facilities are inadequate, there is a disproportionate impact on women's health and quality of life, showing that the non-compliance with the human rights to water and sanitation often results in more harmful consequences for them.
A study of the treatment of high-salt chromium-containing wastewater by the photocatalysis-constructed wetland combination method
Authors: Li Dandan , Chen Fengzhen , Han Jianqiu
Published: January 2020

In this study, iron ore slag as the photocatalyst was introduced into a constructed wetland simulation system. A comparative experiment of the constructed wetland method and photocatalysis-constructed wetland combination method that treats the high-salt chromium-containing wastewater was carried out. The best hydraulic retention time (HRT) of the photocatalysis-constructed wetland combination system was studied. The effects of these two methods on biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and Cr(VI) reduction rate of the high-salt chromium-containing wastewater were analysed after 14 periods. The results showed that under the optimal HRT of 4 hours, the COD and BOD5 of the wastewater reduced by 47% and 31%, and the reduction rate of Cr(VI) was 83% separately in the constructed wetland system. The COD and BOD5 of the wastewater reduced by 83% and 42%, and the reduction rate of Cr(VI) was 96% separately in the photocatalysis-constructed wetland combination method system. At the same time, the changes in plant parameters under these two systems were studied, and the results showed that the addition of photocatalyst and hydrogen peroxide to constructed wetlands did not affect the normal indicators of plant growth. The results showed that the photocatalysis-constructed wetland combination method not only reduced the treatment time greatly, but also improved the quality of the treated wastewater significantly.
Osteoporosis Entwined with Cardiovascular Disease: The Implication of Osteoprotegerin and the Example of Statins
Authors: Deligiorgi Maria V. , Panayiotidis Mihalis I. , Siasos Gerasimos , Trafalis Dimitrios T.
Published: January 2020

Beyond being epiphenomenon of shared epidemiological factors, the integration of Osteoporosis
(OP) with Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) - termed “calcification paradox” - reflects a continuum
of aberrant cardiometabolic status. The present review provides background knowledge on “calcification
paradox”, focusing on the endocrine aspect of vasculature orchestrated by the osteoblastic molecular
fingerprint of vascular cells, acquired via imbalance among established modulators of mineralization.
Osteoprotegerin (OPG), the well-established osteoprotective cytokine, has recently been shown to
exert a vessel-modifying role. Prompted by this notion, the present review interrogates OPG as the
potential missing link between OP and CVD. However, so far, the confirmation of this hypothesis is
hindered by the equivocal role of OPG in CVD, being both proatherosclerotic and antiatherosclerotic.
Further research is needed to illuminate whether OPG could be a biomarker of the “calcification paradox”.
Moreover, the present review brings into prominence the dual role of statins - cardioprotective
and osteoprotective - as a potential illustration of the integration of CVD with OP. Considering that the
statins-induced modulation of OPG is central to the statins-driven osteoprotective signalling, statins
could be suggested as an illustration of the role of OPG in the bone/vessels crosstalk, if further studies
consolidate the contribution of OPG to the cardioprotective role of statins. Another outstanding issue
that merits further evaluation is the inconsistency of the osteoprotective role of statins. Further understanding
of the varying bone-modifying role of statins, likely attributed to the unique profile of different
classes of statins defined by distinct physicochemical characteristics, may yield tangible benefits for
treating simultaneously OP and CVD.
Pharmacological Strategies for Insulin Sensitivity in Obesity and Cancer: Thiazolidinediones and Metformin
Authors: Biondo Luana A. , Teixeira Alexandre A. S. , de O. S. Ferreira Karen C. , Neto Jose C. R.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Chronic diseases, such as obesity and cancer, have high prevalence rates. Both diseases
have hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, high levels of IGF-1 and inflammatory cytokines in common. Therefore,
these can be considered triggers for cancer development and growth. In addition, low-grade inflammation that
modulates the activation of immune cells, cellular metabolism, and production of cytokines and chemokines are
common in obesity, cancer, and insulin resistance. Pharmacological strategies are necessary when a change in
lifestyle does not improve glycemic homeostasis. In this regard, thiazolidinediones (TZD) possess multiple molecular
targets and regulate PPARγ in obesity and cancer related to insulin resistance, while metformin acts
through the AMPK pathway.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to review TZD and metformin as pharmacological treatments for insulin
resistance associated with obesity and cancer.

Conclusions:

Thiazolidinediones restored adiponectin secretion and leptin sensitivity, reduced lipid droplets in
hepatocytes and orexigen peptides in the hypothalamus. In cancer cells, TZD reduced proliferation, production of
reactive oxygen species, and inflammation by acting through the mTOR and NFκB pathways. Metformin has
similar effects, though these are AMPK-dependent. In addition, both drugs can be efficient against certain side
effects caused by chemotherapy.
Recent Strategic Developments in the Use of Superdisintegrants for Drug Delivery
Authors: Tran Phuong H.L. , Tran Thao T.D.
Published: January 2020

Improving drug bioavailability in the pharmaceutical field is a challenge that has attracted substantial
interest worldwide. The controlled release of a drug can be achieved with a variety of strategies and novel materials
in the field. In addition to the vast development of innovative materials for improving therapeutic effects and
reducing side effects, the exploration of remarkable existing materials could encourage the discovery of diverse
approaches for adapted drug delivery systems. Recently, superdisintegrants have been proposed for drug delivery
systems as alternative approaches to maximize the efficiency of therapy. Although superdisintegrants are well
known and used in solid dosage forms, studies on strategies for the development of drug delivery systems using
superdisintegrants are lacking. Therefore, this study reviews the use of superdisintegrants in controlled drug release
dosage formulations. This overview of superdisintegrants covers developed strategies, types (including
synthetic and natural materials), dosage forms and techniques and will help to improve drug delivery systems.
NAFLD at the Interface of the Mother-Infant Dyad
Authors: Bertrando Sara , Vajro Pietro
Published: January 2020

:

This review aims to focus the links existing between several aspects of the mother-child dyad in the
intricate playground of obesity and Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), including its hepatic component, the Non-
Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). In recent years human and animal model studies have shown that dietary
interventions in mothers and offspring can be successful in reducing the risk of NAFLD development. Evidences
also concern the new concept of a real intergenerational transmission of predisposition to metabolic disorders.
Certain genes, such as SIRT1 and PNPLA3, and some epigenetic modifications, including micro RNAs
function, seem to be responsible for fetal reprogramming in the setting of maternal obesity. These modifiers appear
to be potential therapeutic targets to reduce the risk of future metabolic dysfunctions.

:

Controlling antepartum hyperglycemia, preventing gestational diabetes, and avoiding excessive weight gain during
pregnancy can help reduce the relentless epidemic of childhood obesity and NAFLD. Also, the composition
of the intestinal microbiota seems to be related to the development of metabolic disorders in the offspring. Several
studies show that breastfed infants have a microbial signature different from formula-fed infants. Much interestingly,
prolonged breastfeeding is beneficial not only for the newborn and his health in adult life, but also for the
mothers’ health. Maternal benefits include reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as diabetes
mellitus, myocardial infarction and NAFLD as well.

:

In conclusion, all above mechanisms appear to intervene synergistically and may act as modifiable risk factors for
infant and mother NAFLD.
Detection, Identification and Structural Elucidation of Flavonoids using Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Wojtanowski Krzysztof Kamil , Mroczek Tomasz
Published: January 2020

Flavonoids are one of the most common secondary metabolites occurring in plants. Their activity in the Central Nervous System (CNS) including sedative, anxiolytic, anti-convulsive, anti-depressant and neuro-protective actions is well known and documented. The most popular methods for detection, identification and structural elucidation of flavonoids are these based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS). NMR allows rapid, high throughput analysis of crude extracts and also gives stereochemical details about identified substances. However, these methods are expensive and less sensitive than MS-based techniques. Combining High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with MS detection gives the most powerful tool for analysis of flavonoids occurring in plants. There is a lot of different approaches to use LC/MS based techniques for identification of flavonoids and this short review shows the most important.
Prognostic Role of Hedgehog-GLI1 Signaling Pathway in Aggressive and Metastatic Breast Cancers
Authors: Rokkam Prasuja , Gugalavath Shailender , Gift Kumar Deepak Kakara , Vempati Rahul Kumar , Malla Rama Rao
Published: January 2020

Glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (GLI1) is reported as an amplified gene in human glioblastoma
cells. It is a krupple like transcription factor, belonging to the zinc finger family. The basic function of GLI1 is normal
neural development at various stages of human. The GLI1 gene was first mapped on the chromosome sub-bands
12q13.3-14.1. Further, single nucleotide polymorphism is mostly observed in translating a region of 5’ and 3’- UTR
of GLI1 gene in addition to two post-transcriptional splice variants, GLIΔN and tGLI. Additionally, it also regulates
a plethora of gene which mediates crucial cellular processes like proliferation, differentiation, oncogenesis, EMT,
and metastasis. It also regulates tumor tolerance, chemoresistance, and radioresistance. Aberrant expression of GLI1
predicts the poor survival of breast cancer patients. GLI1 is an essential mediator of the SHH signaling pathway
regulating self-renewal of stem cells, angiogenesis, and expression of FOXS1, CYR61. GLI1 mediated HH pathway
can induce apoptosis. Hence, GLI1 can be a future diagnostic, prognostic marker, and as well as a potent target of
therapeutics in breast cancer.
An Assessment of Patients Factors Effect on Prescriber Adherence to Ischemic Stroke Secondary Prevention Guidelines
Authors: Al Qawasmeh Majdi , Alhusban Ahmed , Alfwaress Firas , El-Salem Khalid
Published: January 2020

Background::

Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability worldwide. Stroke recurrence
is a major health problem with devastating consequences. Adherence to secondary prevention
guidelines reduced stroke recurrence. Data regarding prescriptions adherence to secondary
prevention guidelines in the Middle East and North Africa is lacking.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to assess the degree of physician adherence to ASA guidelines
and the patient specific factors that affect their prescribing patterns in a major teaching hospital in
Jordan.

Methods:

Ischemic stroke patients referring to King Abdullah University Hospital were approached
and offered a description of the study to obtain their informed consent. After getting the informed
consent, their prescription at the time of discharge was evaluated for adherence to secondary prevention
guidelines and classified into adherent and non-adherent based on a composite score that
included each of the guidelines which indicated therapeutic classes. Odds ratio for adherence and
their 95%confidence intervals were calculated and adherence to specific therapeutics classes was
evaluated.

Results:

Two hundred and seventy-five patients were included in this evaluation. Less than 50% of
the patients received guideline’s adherent prescriptions. Patients with hypertension and hyperlipidemia
were associated with a lower probability were prescribed a guidelines adherent regimen (OR
0.485, 0.0.225, respectively). ACEI/ARBs combination with thiazides was prescribed to about
11.52% of the patients.

Conclusion:

Adherence to stroke secondary prevention guidelines was suboptimal especially in the
antihypertensive prescription component. Further assessments and evaluations are required to improve
guidelines adherence.
Salinomycin Suppresses Tumorigenicity of Liver Cancer Stem Cells and Wnt/Beta-catenin Signaling
Authors: Liu Qiuping , Sun Jinghui , Luo Qing , Ju Yang , Song Guanbin
Published: January 2020

Background:

Accumulating evidence has revealed the important role of Cancer Stem Cells
(CSCs) in driving tumor initiation and tumor relapse or metastasis. Therapeutic strategies that selectively
target CSCs may be effective approaches to eliminate cancer. Salinomycin, an antitumor agent,
was identified as a selective inhibitor of several types of CSCs. We previously reported that salinomycin
inhibits the migration and invasiveness of Liver Cancer Stem Cells (LCSCs).

Objective:

This study was conducted to explore the role of salinomycin in suppressing the stemness
properties of LCSCs and the mechanism.

Methods:

LCSCs were identified and enriched from MHCC97H cells. Salinomycin was used to treat
LCSCs at the indicated concentrations. Sphere formation ability, chemotherapy resistance, expression
of CSC surface markers, Young’s modulus and tumorigenicity of LCSCs were assessed to evaluate the
effect of salionmycin on LCSCs. The expression of β-catenin was evaluated by western blotting. LiCl
was used to activate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Results:

Salinomycin suppresses the stemness properties of LCSCs. Moreover, salinomycin could also
inhibit the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in LCSCs. Nevertheless, the stemness properties of
LCSCs could be recovered when Wnt/β-catenin signaling was activated by LiCl. Further studies demonstrated
that salinomycin also significantly reduces the tumorigenicity of LCSCs in vivo by suppressing
the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Conclusion:

Salinomycin could suppress stemness properties and induce differentiation of LCSCs
through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which provides evidence that salinomycin may serve as a
potential drug for liver cancer therapy targeting LCSCs in the clinic.
Association of FOXP3 Polymorphisms with Susceptibility to Multiple Sclerosis: A Meta-Analysis on Genetic Association Studies
Authors: Mousavi Nazanin , Yasin Ahmadi Seyyed Amir , Mahmoudi Zahra , Nekouian Reza , Ansari-moghaddam Bijan , Shahsavar Farhad
Published: January 2020

Objectives:

OXP3 is a gene related to regulatory T cells existing on chromosome
X. This meta-analysis, based on genetic association studies, was conducted to investigate
the association of FOXP3 polymorphisms with susceptibility to multiple sclerosis
(MS).

Methods:

All genetic association studies covering both FOXP3 and multiple sclerosis
terms were searched in PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The information of
genotype frequencies was summarized and results were synthesized through odds ratio
(OR). Heterogeneity and publication bias were investigated using I2 scale and Begg's funnel
plot, respectively.

Results:

For rs3761548 -3279 C/A polymorphism, AA/AY genotypes were a risk factor in
comparison to CC/CY genotypes (P =0.022; OR =1.752; 95% confidence interval [CI]
=1.084-2.830; random). AC genotype was a risk factor in comparison to CC/CY genotypes
(P =0.004; OR =1.537; 95% CI =1.145-2.062; random) and homozygote genotypes
(P =0.016; OR =1.216; 95% CI =1.038-1.426; fixed). For rs2232365 -924 G/A polymorphism,
2 significant associations were found according to a fixed effect model; of course,
they did not remain significant in the random effect model.

Conclusion:

According to the collected populations, susceptibility to and protection from
MS are associated with rs3761548 -3279 C/A upstream polymorphism. However, it
should be regarded that this association is ethnicity dependent with low effect size.
A Micro-Channel Cooling Model for a Three-Dimensional Integrated Circuit Considering Through-Silicon Vias
Authors: Wang Kang-Jia , Sun Hong-Chang , Wang Kui-Zhi
Published: January 2020

Background:

With the increase in the integration degree of the three-dimensional Integrated
Circuit ( 3D I C) , the thermal power consumption per unit volume increases greatly, which makes
the chip temperature rise. High temperature could affect the performance of the devices and even lead
to thermal failure. So, the thermal management for 3D ICs is becoming a major concern.

Objective:

The aim of the research is to establish a micro-channel cooling model for a three-dimensional integrated circuit(3D IC) considering the through-silicon vias(TSVs).

Methods:

By studying the structure of the TSVs, the equivalent t hermal resistance of each layer was
formulated. Then the one-dimensional micro-channel cooling thermal analytical model considering
the TSVs was proposed and solved by the existing sparse solvers such as KLU.

Results:

The results obtained in this paper reveal that the TSVs can effectively improve the heat dissipation, and its maximal temperature reduction is about 10.75%. The theoretical analysis is helpful to optimize the micro-channel cooling system for 3D ICs.

Conclusion:

The TSV has an important influence on the heat dissipation of 3D IC, which can improve its heat dissipation characteristic.
Senolytic potential of Hsp90 inhibitors
Authors: Gupta Sayan Dutta , Pan Cheol Ho
Published: January 2020

:

Hsp90 chaperone is an encouraging target for the development of novel anticancer agents. The failure of Hsp90 inhibitors to get regulatory approval for the treatment of cancer is hindered due to toxicity, cost involved in their development and formulation issues. The inhibitors against this chaperone is also being evaluated in pre-clinical models for the treatment of diseases other than cancer (Alzheimer, malaria, AIDS, etc.). Recently, Hsp90 inhibitors have shown promising senolytic effect, that is helpful in increasing the health and life span of mice. The senolytic property of Hsp90 inhibitors will make them less toxic for use in humans. The review focuses on Hsp90 inhibitors discovered till date as senolytic agents along with their future prospects. Further, the various models used for the evaluation of senolytic effect are also discussed.
Comparative Study of Different Antenna Configurations for the MIMOOSTBC Technique Using FEC and the Rayleigh Fading Channel
Authors: Alausta Gamal M.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Multi-Input Multi-Output (MIMO) systems using Orthogonal Space-Time
Block Coding (OSTBC) gained extensive popularity in wireless applications owing to the potential
of providing improved reliability.

Methods:

The performance of MIMO - OSTBC systems using error-correcting code (Convolutional,
Reed Solomon and Interleaving) schemes used to encode data streams in wireless communications
using the Rayleigh channel is reported here. These are subjected to experimentation under modulation
schemes such as Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK). Decoding occurs using the Maximum
Likelihood (ML) algorithm, which provides high data rates using spatial domains under the limits of
power transmission and limited bandwidths.

Results:

Different simulations are performed to detect the best BER performance for various antenna
configurations and values of antenna configurations with Error Correction so as to use the best
outcomes to model the OSTBC.

Conclusion:

Their effect of improving the overall can be noticed by the advantages of OSTBC with
the correcting codes and the maximum number of configurations.
Experimental Study on Marble and Brick Powders as Partial Replacement of Cement in Self-compacting Mortar
Authors: Boucherit Dalila , Debiebt Farid , Kenai Said , Khalfaoui Maroua Amina , Chellali Sara
Published: January 2020

Aims:

To produce a low environment impact concrete by recycling waste brick
and waste marble.

Background:

Marble and brick wastes are produced as a byproduct during manufacturing or
cutting processes. These materials could be used as a substitution to cement in mortar and
concrete to reduce its environmental impact.

Objective:

To study the performance of self-compacting mortar with marbles and brick
powders at the fresh and hardened states.

Results:

It is an experimental investigation where two Blaine finenesses of marble and brick
powders were used. Rheological, mechanical and physical properties of the new composites
were studied.

Results:

The results show that for optimal workability and compressive strength of SCM,
the maximum percent of substitution must not exceed 5% for brick powder, whereas for
marble powder it can reach up to 20% according to the fineness of powder. The incorporation
of brick and marble powders separately decreases the shrinkage of SCM and the combination
of both powders has a positive effect on its sorptivity coefficient and total shrinkage.

Conclusion:

Maximum 5% and 20% of brick and marble powder respectively are recommended
for optimal properties of self-compacting mortar.
A Mobile App Directory of Occupational Therapists Who Provide Home Modifications: Development and Preliminary Usability Evaluation
Authors: Nguyen An Thi , Somerville Emily Kling , Espín-Tello Sandra Martina , Keglovits Marian , Stark Susan Lynn
Published: January 2020

Background

Home modifications provided by occupational therapists (OTs) are effective in improving daily activity performance and reducing fall risk among community-dwelling older adults. However, the prevalence of home modification is low. One reason is the lack of a centralized database of OTs who provide home modifications.

Objective

This study aimed to develop and test the usability of a mobile app directory of OTs who provide home modifications in the United States.

Methods

In phase 1, a prototype was developed by identifying OTs who provide home modifications through keyword Web searches. Referral information was confirmed by phone or email. In phase 2, community-dwelling older adults aged older than 65 years and OTs currently working in the United States were purposefully recruited to participate in a single usability test of the mobile app, Home Modifications for Aging and Disability Directory of Referrals (Home Maddirs). Participants completed the System Usability Scale (SUS) and semistructured interview questions. Interview data were coded, and themes were derived using a grounded theory approach.

Results

In phase 1, referral information for 101 OTs across 49 states was confirmed. In phase 2, 6 OTs (mean clinical experience 4.3 years, SD 1.6 years) and 6 older adults (mean age 72.8 years, SD 5.0 years) participated. The mean SUS score for OTs was 91.7 (SD 8.0; out of 100), indicating good usability. The mean SUS score for older adults was 71.7 (SD 27.1), indicating considerable variability in usability. In addition, the SUS scores indicated that the app is acceptable to OTs and may be acceptable to some older adults. For OTs, self-reported barriers to acceptability and usability included the need for more information on the scope of referral services. For older adults, barriers included high cognitive load, lack of operational skills, and the need to accommodate sensory changes. For both groups, facilitators of acceptability and usability included perceived usefulness, social support, and multiple options to access information.

Conclusions

Home Maddirs demonstrates good preliminary acceptability and usability to OTs. Older adults’ perceptions regarding acceptability and usability varied considerably, partly based on prior experience using mobile apps. Results will be used to make improvements to this promising new tool for increasing older adults’ access to home modifications.
Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation and Urinary TGF-β1 in Nonacidotic Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Raphael Kalani L. , Greene Tom , Wei Guo , Bullshoe Tristin , Tuttle Kunani , Cheung Alfred K. , Beddhu Srinivasan
Published: January 2020

Background and objectives

In early-phase studies of individuals with hypertensive CKD and normal serum total CO2, sodium bicarbonate reduced urinary TGF-β1 levels and preserved kidney function. The effect of sodium bicarbonate on kidney fibrosis and injury markers in individuals with diabetic kidney disease and normal serum total CO2 is unknown.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study in 74 United States veterans with type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus, eGFR of 15–89 ml/min per 1.73 m2, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥30 mg/g, and serum total CO2 of 22–28 meq/L. Participants received oral sodium bicarbonate (0.5 meq/kg lean body wt per day; n=35) or placebo (n=39) for 6 months. The primary outcome was change in urinary TGF-β1-to-creatinine from baseline to months 3 and 6. Secondary outcomes included changes in urinary kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1)-to-creatinine, fibronectin-to-creatinine, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL)-to-creatinine, and UACR from baseline to months 3 and 6.

Results

Key baseline characteristics were age 72±8 years, eGFR of 51±18 ml/min per 1.73 m2, and serum total CO2 of 24±2 meq/L. Sodium bicarbonate treatment increased mean total CO2 by 1.2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.3 to 2.1) meq/L, increased urinary pH by 0.6 (95% CI, 0.5 to 0.8), and decreased urinary ammonium excretion by 5 (95% CI, 0 to 11) meq/d and urinary titratable acid excretion by 11 (95% CI, 5 to 18) meq/d. Sodium bicarbonate did not significantly change urinary TGF-β1/creatinine (difference in change, 13%, 95% CI, −10% to 40%; change within the sodium bicarbonate group, 8%, 95% CI, −10% to 28%; change within the placebo group, −4%, 95% CI, −19% to 13%). Similarly, no significant effect on KIM-1-to-creatinine (difference in change, −10%, 95% CI, −38% to 31%), fibronectin-to-creatinine (8%, 95% CI, −15% to 37%), NGAL-to-creatinine (−33%, 95% CI, −56% to 4%), or UACR (1%, 95% CI, −25% to 36%) was observed.

Conclusions

In nonacidotic diabetic kidney disease, sodium bicarbonate did not significantly reduce urinary TGF-β1, KIM-1, fibronectin, NGAL, or UACR over 6 months.
El trabajo colaborativo en primaria y secundaria: diferencias según sexo y curso
Authors: Epelde Larrañaga Amaya , Chacón Cuberos Ramón , Oñederra Ramírez José Antonio
Published: January 2020

El objetivo principal de la educación primaria y secundaria consiste en facilitar a los jóvenes una formación plena que les permita desempeñar una futura vida personal y profesional de calidad. Durante la vida profesional de una persona, el trabajo en equipo es una herramienta muy utilizada debido a las grandes ventajas que proporciona a nivel individual, grupal, social y profesional, pero ello exige una preparación previa que se debe adquirir durante la etapa escolar. En este manuscrito presentamos el estudio que hemos realizado sobre el trabajo en equipo que se lleva a cabo en dos centros de Educación Primaria y Secundaria de la Ciudad Autónoma de Melilla (España). Se pretenden ver las diferencias existentes en este aspecto según sexo, curso y tipo de centro. Los resultados obtenidos demuestran que las mujeres son más responsables que los hombres al llevar a cabo un trabajo en grupo y que a mayor edad o curso superior, disminuye la motivación e implicación en el trabajo colaborativo
De la inexistente distinción entre principios y reglas
Authors: Restrepo Ospina Adriana María
Published: January 2020

El artículo aborda el problema de la definición de los principios jurídicos en Ronald Dworkin, Robert Alexy, Manuel Atienza y Juan Ruiz Manero, como autores paradigmáticos y que han realizado aportes relevantes en la discusión sobre los principios jurídicos y su distinción respecto de las reglas. El análisis se centra en mostrar cómo cada una de estas propuestas intenta ofrecer un criterio que, desde el ámbito estructural, permita una diferenciación clara entre reglas y principios, que sirva de soporte lógico y analítico a la distinción metodológica que de ella se deriva en el terreno aplicativo: la subsunción para las reglas, y la ponderación para los principios. La revisión detallada de cada uno de estos autores lleva a concluir que dicha distinción estructural no es defendible, pues o carece de fundamentación apropiada, o supone decisiones interpretativas previas del órgano que toma la decisión.
Adjudicación de contratos para la exploración y extracción de hidrocarburos. Procedencia del amparo
Authors: Rodríguez Romo Paola
Published: January 2020

El objetivo  de este artículo es analizar la procedencia del amparo respecto de los actos realizados para  adjudicar contratos para  la exploración y extracción de hidrocarburos, en el marco de la reforma energética. Para  tal efecto, el artículo se divide en cinco apartados: la primera parte encaminada a contextualizar al lector y detallar la estructura del  presente artículo; la segunda diseñada para  identificar las diversas actuaciones que se realizan para  la adjudicación de contratos petroleros y de esa forma distinguir entre aquellos actos previos a la licitación y aquellos realizados durante ésta; el tercero, dedicado a determinar si el amparo es procedente y en su caso, identificar los  posibles actos objeto de impugnación; mientras que el cuarto va dirigido a analizar los sujetos que pueden promover dicho medio de impugnación, finalizando con el último apartado, dedicado a las conclusiones del presente artículo.
Entrevista al Doctor Pedro Salazar Ugarte
Authors: Uscanga Barradas Abril
Published: January 2020

Pedro Salazar Ugarte es Licenciado en Derecho y Doctor en Filosofía Política. Es Director del Instituto de Investigaciones Jurídicas de la UNAM e investigador "B" de tiempo completo del mismo. Miembro del Sistema Nacional de Investigadores (Nivel III). Integrante del Grupo Nacional Mexicano de la Corte Permanente de Arbitraje de la Haya. forma parte del Claustro de Doctores de la Facultad de Derecho de la UNAM y es profesor de teoría política en la misma.

Entre sus libros se encuentran: El Poder Ejecutivo en la Constitución mexicana. Del metaconstitucionalismo a la constelación de autonomías (FCE, 2017), Estado laico en un país religioso. Escuela Nacional de Religíon, Secularización y Laicidad (en coautoría con Paulina Barrera y Saúl Espino. IIJ-UNAM, 2015); La República Laica y sus libertades. Las reformas a los artículos 24 y 40 constitucionales. (IIJ-UNAM, 2015); Derechos Humanos y Restricciones. Los dilemas de la justicia (en coautoría con Luis Daniel Vázquez y Alejandra Medina Mora. Porrúa, 2015); Dercho y Poder. Derechos y garantías (Fontamara, 2013); Crítica de la mano Dura. Cómo enfrental la violencia y preservar nuestras libertades (Océano 2012); La Reforma Constitucional de Derechos Humanos. Un nuevo paradigma (coordinado con Miguel Carbonell en 2012); La Democracia Constitucional. Una radiografía teórica (FCE-UNAM, 2006); El Derecho a la libertad de expresión frente al derecho a la no discriminación (en coautoría con Rodrigo Gutiérrez; CONAPRED-UNAM, 2003); La mecánica del Cambio Político (en coautoría con Ricardo Becerra y José Woldenberg. Cal y Arena, 2000).
Integración jurídica de los inmigrantes indígenas. Propuesta teórica conceptual
Authors: Ramírez Sánchez Saúl
Published: January 2020

La integración de los inmigrantes a la sociedad estadounidense ha sido abordada desde diversos ámbitos (social, cultural, político y económico) y a la luz de las perspectivas de la asimilación o el multiculturalismo, concibiendo el proceso de incorporación como unidireccional, donde los recién llegados tienen la responsabilidad de incorporarse a la sociedad receptora adaptándose a la cultura dominante. Por el contrario, la integración jurídica debe entenderse como un proceso bidireccional en donde el Estado implementa políticas para que los inmigrantes se incorporen a la sociedad, así como los recién llegados hagan lo propio para formar parte de la vida del lugar de establecimiento. En el fondo de esta noción está el que los inmigrantes indígenas tengan derecho a tener derechos. Para ello, se propone un modelo de análisis sobre los nivelesde incorporación de estos sujetos, a través de dos unidades: la cultura jurídica y el acceso a la justicia como política jurídica.
El cambio constitucional, sus vías y su abuso
Authors: Rodríguez y Rodríguez Sergio Enrique Abraham , Melgarejo Rodrigo Brito
Published: January 2020

La forma tan vertiginosa en que nuestro texto constitucional ha cambiado en los últimos años, no es claro si esa dinámica en los procesos de reforma constitucional ha tenido los efectos que buscaban quienes propusieron las modificaciones a la norma fundamental o si, por el contrario, los cambios constitucionales que han tenido un verdadero impacto en la vida social en el país son producto de un proceso de evolución complejo derivado de otras prácticas distintas al procedimiento contemplado en el artículo 135 constitucional y, en consecuencia, el gran número de reformas que ha experimentado la Constitución no es sino el reflejo de la falta de madurez de nuestra democracia.
¿Es anticonstitucional que la jurisprudencia de la Suprema Corte de Justicia de la Nación no sea susceptible de someterse a control de constitucionalidad y/o convencionalidad ex officio?
Authors: Sánchez Rangel Claudia Isabel
Published: January 2020

Actualmente las autoridades -incluso aquellas no jurisdiccionales- tienen la obligación de aplicar normas de derechos humanos solo si son conformes con la Constitución y los Tratados Internacionales (control de constitucionalidad y/o convencionalidad ex officio), sin embargo la jurisprudencia no es sujeta a este tipo de control, en este artículo se estudiará la constitucionalidad o no de esta exclusión, ya que pareciera que va en contra de los artículos 1° y 133 Constitucional.
El semipresidencialismo: ¿una alternativa para el sistema político mexicano?
Authors: Castañeda Camacho Gustavo Eduardo
Published: January 2020

Los sistemas parlamentario y presidencial son formas de gobierno dentro de los regímenes políticos democráticos. Lo que hace especial a estos sistemas, es que son los diseños más influyentes en el mundo moderno occidental, aunque no son los únicos. México se encuentra en los preludios de una transición de gobierno que se presenta ambivalente ante sus gobernados, al despertar sentimientos opuestos en la misma ciudadanía. Las expectaciones respecto a este vaivén, oscilan en un cúmulo de variables que en el cas d’espèce se tornan insondables en temas político-constitucionales. Una gran incógnita es concierne al sistema de gobierno, en el que la disyuntiva abre el debate lego y académico para dilucidar qué régimen político sería más conveniente para nuestro país: ¿el presidencialismo, el parlamentarismo o acaso el semipresidencialismo?
La Alienación parental y su regulación en México, una omisión en su legislación
Authors: Montoya López Adolfo Eduardo Cuitláhuac , Rivas Duarte Jaqueline
Published: January 2020

El presente artículo examina si la falta de reconocimiento científico de la alienación parental como un síndrome o en su caso un exceso en su sanción, es o no, motivo suficiente para omitir su regulación en la legislación nacional; o bien, si la alienación parental existe como una conducta actual, misma que puede ser corroborada mediante dictámenes psicológicos u otros métodos, y por tanto, existe la necesidad de su regulación.Igualmente, el presente analiza la decisión tomada por la Asamblea Legislativa del Distrito Federal, al derogar el artículo 323 Séptimus del Código Civil del Distrito Federal, que regulaba y sancionaba la alienación parental, y si ésta constituye o no, una omisión legislativa en perjuicio de los derechos de las niñas, niños y adolescentes; contrastada con los criterios establecidos por la Suprema Corte de Justicia de la Nación en la acción de inconstitucionalidad número 11/2016, resuelta el 24 de octubre de 2017.Finalmente, propone un análisis respecto de la imposición de medidas o sanciones, a todas aquellas personas que incurran en conductas de alienación parental, pues como ya se dijo, la propia Suprema Corte de Justicia de la Nación, ya ha declarado inconstitucional que la consecuencia de la alienación parental sea la suspensión o pérdida de la patria potestad de los padres sobre el menor.
Entrevista al Doctor Raúl Contreras Bustamante, director de la facultad de derecho de la UNAM
Authors: Contreras Bustamante Raúl
Published: January 2020

RAÚL CONTRERAS BUSTAMANTE es Profesor de Tiempo Completo Titular Definitivo “C”. Facultad de Derecho. U.N.A.M. Impartiendo materias de teoría de la constitución, derecho constitucional y derecho notarial y registral, en la licenciatura; así como, poder legislativo, regímenes constitucionales comparados y federalismo y relaciones interinstitucionales, en el posgrado. Antigüedad docente 28 años. Ha sido Consejero Técnico de la Facultad de Derecho en dos ocasiones y recipiendario de las Cátedras Extraordinarias “Raúl Cervantes Ahumada” y “Fernando Ojesto Martínez”. Miembro del Sistema Nacional de Investigadores Nivel I Notario 29 de la decimoprimera demarcación del estado de Veracruz. (Con licencia). Investigador Honorario en el Colegio de Veracruz. Colaborador Editorial en el periódico Excélsior. Columna “Corolario” Columnista invitado La Jornada de Veracruz.