bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Sulfur Derivatives of Quinolinium Salts
Authors: Empel Anna , Kisiel Ewa , Wojtyczka Robert , Kępa Małgorzata , Idzik Danuta , Sochanik Aleksander , Wąsik Tomasz , Zięba Andrzej
Published: January 2018

A novel method for cleavage of the dithiine ring in 5,12-(dimethyl)-thioqinantrenium bis-chloride 1 “via” reaction with sodium hydrosulfide leads to 1-methyl-3-mercaptoquinoline-4(1H)-thione 2. Further transformation of thiol and thione functions of compound 2 leads to a series of sulfide and disulfide derivatives of quinolinium salts 4 and 6. 1-Methyl-4-chloro-3-benzylthioquinoline chloride 8 was obtained by N-alkylating 4-chloro-3-benzylthioquinoline using dimethyl sulfate. Antimicrobial activity of the obtained compounds was investigated using six Gram-positive and six Gram-negative bacterial strains, as well as Candida albicans yeast. Greater activity was demonstrated towards Gram-positive strains. MIC values for compounds and with benzylthio 4d and benzoylthio 4f substituents in 3-quinoline position were found to be in the 0.5–1 μg/mL range, at a level similar to that of ciprofloxacin (reference). Compounds 4d and 4f also demonstrated interesting antifungal properties (MIC = 1).
Protective Mechanism of the Antioxidant Baicalein toward Hydroxyl Radical-Treated Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Tian Yage , Li Xican , Xie Hong , Wang Xiaozhen , Xie Yulu , Chen Chuanbing , Chen Dongfeng
Published: January 2018

Our study explores the antioxidant and cytoprotective effects of baicalein and further discusses the possible mechanisms. A methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay revealed that baicalein could considerably enhance the viability of hydroxyl radical-treated bone marrow-mesenchymal stem cells (bmMSCs) at 37–370 µM. The highest viability rate was 120.4%. In subsequent studies, baicalein was observed to effectively scavenge hydroxyl radical and PTIO• radicals, reducing Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions. In the Fe2+-chelating UV-vis spectra, mixing of baicalein with Fe2+ yielded two evident redshifts (275 → 279 nm and 324 → 352 nm) and a broad absorption peak (λmax ≈ 650 nm, ε = 1.6 × 103 L mol−1·cm−1). Finally, we compared the Fe2+-chelating UV-vis spectra of baicalein and its analogues, including 5-hydroxyflavone, 6-hydroxyflavone, 7-hydroxyflavone, catechol, pyrogallol, and chrysin. This analysis revealed that the 4-keto group of the C-ring played a role. The 5,6,7-trihydroxy-group (pyrogallol group) in the A-ring served as an auxochrome, enhancing the absorbance of the UV-vis spectra and deepening the color of the Fe2+-complex. We concluded that baicalein, as an effective hydroxyl radical-scavenger, can protect bmMSCs from hydroxyl radical-mediated oxidative stress. Its hydroxyl radical-scavenging effects are likely exerted via two pathways: direct scavenging of hydroxyl radicals, possibly through electron transfer, and indirect inhibition of hydroxyl radical generation via Fe2+ chelation through the 4-keto-5,6,7-trihydroxy groups.
Brassicaceae Mustards: Traditional and Agronomic Uses in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Rahman Mahmudur , Khatun Amina , Liu Lei , Barkla Bronwyn J.
Published: January 2018

Commonly cultivated Brassicaceae mustards, namely garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), white mustard (Brassica alba), Ethiopian mustard (B. carinata), Asian mustard (B. juncea), oilseed rape (B. napus), black mustard (B. nigra), rapeseed (B. rapa), white ball mustard (Calepina irregularis), ball mustard (Neslia paniculata), treacle mustard (Erysimum repandum), hedge mustard (Sisymbrium officinale), Asian hedge mustard (S. orientale), smooth mustard (S. erysimoides) and canola are the major economically important oilseed crops in many countries. Mustards were naturalized to Australia and New Zealand and Australia is currently the second largest exporter of Brassicaceae oilseeds to meet the global demand for a healthy plant-derived oil, high in polyunsaturated fats. Apart from providing edible oil, various parts of these plants and many of their phytochemicals have been used traditionally for both agronomic as well as medicinal purposes, with evidence of their use by early Australian and New Zealand settlers and also the indigenous population. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge of traditional and agronomic uses of Brassicaceae oilseeds and mustards with a focus on their importance in Australia and New Zealand.
Chemical Constituents from Apios americana and Their Inhibitory Activity on Tyrosinase
Authors: Kim Jang , Kim Hyo , Kang Si , Kim Jin-Baek , Kim Young , Jin Chang
Published: January 2018

The goal of this study was to identify phytochemicals with inhibitory activity against tyrosinase. Nine compounds 1–9 were isolated from the tubers of Apios americana. This is the first report of aromadendrin 5-methyl ether (1) being isolated from the Apios species. Among them, compounds 2 and 8 showed inhibitory activity toward tyrosinase. Based on a Dixon plot, the potential Ki values of competitive inhibitors 2 and 8 were calculated as 10.3 ± 0.8 µM and 44.2 ± 1.7 µM, respectively. An IC50 value of 13.2 ± 1.0 µM was calculated for the slow-binding inhibitor 2 after preincubation with tyrosinase. Additionally, the predicted binding sites between the receptor and ligand, as well as secondary structure changes, in the presence of 2 were examined by molecular simulation.
One-Pot Synthesis of 3-Functionalized 4-Hydroxycoumarin under Catalyst-Free Conditions
Authors: Gao Yang , Zhang Guo-Ning , Wang Juxian , Bai Xiaoguang , Li Yiliang , Wang Yucheng
Published: January 2018

A concise and efficient one-pot synthesis of 3-functionalized 4-hydroxycoumarin derivatives via a three-component domino reaction of 4-hydroxycoumarin, phenylglyoxal and 3-arylaminocyclopent-2-enone or 4-arylaminofuran-2(5H)-one under catalyst-free and microwave irradiation conditions is described. This synthesis involves a group-assisted purification process, which avoids traditional recrystallization and chromatographic purification methods.
Biochemical Analysis of the Role of Leucine-Rich Repeat Receptor-Like Kinases and the Carboxy-Terminus of Receptor Kinases in Regulating Kinase Activity in Arabidopsis thaliana and Brassica oleracea
Authors: Oh Eun-Seok , Lee Yeon , Chae Won Byoung , Rameneni Jana Jeevan , Park Yong-Soon , Lim Yong Pyo , Oh Man-Ho
Published: January 2018

Protein post-translational modification by phosphorylation is essential for the activity and stability of proteins in higher plants and underlies their responses to diverse stimuli. There are more than 300 leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinases (LRR-RLKs), a major group of receptor-like kinases (RLKs) that plays an important role in growth, development, and biotic stress responses in higher plants. To analyze auto- and transphosphorylation patterns and kinase activities in vitro, 43 full-length complementary DNA (cDNA) sequences were cloned from genes encoding LRR-RLKs. Autophosphorylation activity was found in the cytoplasmic domains (CDs) of 18 LRR-RLKs; 13 of these LRR-RLKs with autophosphorylation activity showed transphosphorylation in Escherichia coli. BRI1-Associated Receptor Kinase (BAK1), which is critically involved in the brassinosteroid and plant innate immunity signal transduction pathways, showed strong auto- and transphosphorylation with multi-specific kinase activity within 2 h of induction of Brassica oleraceae BAK1-CD (BoBAK1-CD) in E. coli; moreover, the carboxy-terminus of LRR-RLKs regulated phosphorylation and kinase activity in Arabidopsis thaliana and vegetative crops.
The Potential of Phytomelatonin as a Nutraceutical
Authors: B. Arnao Marino , Hernández-Ruiz Josefa
Published: January 2018

Phytomelatonin (plant melatonin) is chemically related to the amino acid tryptophan and has many diverse properties. Phytomelatonin is an interesting compound due to its outstanding actions at the cellular and physiological level, especially its protective effect in plants exposed to diverse stress situations, while its vegetable origin offers many opportunities because it is a natural compound. We present an overview of its origin, its action in plants in general (particularly in plant species with high levels of phytomelatonin), and its possibilities for use as a nutraceutical with particular attention paid to the beneficial effects that it may have in human health. The differences between synthetic melatonin and phytomelatonin, according to its origin and purity, are presented. Finally, the current market for phytomelatonin and its limits and potentials are discussed.
Designing for a Wearable Affective Interface for the NAO Robot: A Study of Emotion Conveyance by Touch
Authors: Lowe Robert , Andreasson Rebecca , Alenljung Beatrice , Lund Anja , Billing Erik
Published: January 2018

We here present results and analysis from a study of affective tactile communication between human and humanoid robot (the NAO robot). In the present work, participants conveyed eight emotions to the NAO via touch. In this study, we sought to understand the potential for using a wearable affective (tactile) interface, or WAffI. The aims of our study were to address the following: (i) how emotions and affective states can be conveyed (encoded) to such a humanoid robot, (ii) what are the effects of dressing the NAO in the WAffI on emotion conveyance and (iii) what is the potential for decoding emotion and affective states. We found that subjects conveyed touch for longer duration and over more locations on the robot when the NAO was dressed with WAffI than when it was not. Our analysis illuminates ways by which affective valence, and separate emotions, might be decoded by a humanoid robot according to the different features of touch: intensity, duration, location, type. Finally, we discuss the types of sensors and their distribution as they may be embedded within the WAffI and that would likely benefit Human-NAO (and Human-Humanoid) interaction along the affective tactile dimension.
Treatment Strategy for Dyslipidemia in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: Focus on Old and New Drugs
Authors: Zodda Donatella , Giammona Rosario , Schifilliti Silvia
Published: January 2018

Prevention and treatment of dyslipidemia should be considered as an integral part of individual cardiovascular prevention interventions, which should be addressed primarily to those at higher risk who benefit most. To date, statins remain the first-choice therapy, as they have been shown to reduce the risk of major vascular events by lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). However, due to adherence to statin therapy or statin resistance, many patients do not reach LDL-C target levels. Ezetimibe, fibrates, and nicotinic acid represent the second-choice drugs to be used in combination with statins if lipid targets cannot be reached. In addition, anti-PCSK9 drugs (evolocumab and alirocumab) provide an effective solution for patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and statin intolerance at very high cardiovascular risk. Recently, studies demonstrated the effects of two novel lipid-lowering agents (lomitapide and mipomersen) for the management of homozygous FH by decreasing LDL-C values and reducing cardiovascular events. However, the costs for these new therapies made the cost–effectiveness debate more complicated.
Multiple Fano-Like MIM Plasmonic Structure Based on Triangular Resonator for Refractive Index Sensing
Authors: Jankovic Nikolina , Cselyuszka Norbert
Published: January 2018

In this paper, we present a Fano metal-insulator-metal (MIM) structure based on an isosceles triangular cavity resonator for refractive index sensing applications. Due to the specific feeding scheme and asymmetry introduced in the triangular cavity, the resonator exhibits four sharp Fano-like resonances. The behavior of the structure is analyzed in detail and its sensing capabilities demonstrated through the responses for various refractive indices. The results show that the sensor has very good sensitivity and maximal figure of merit (FOM) value of 3.2 × 105. In comparison to other similar sensors, the proposed one has comparable sensitivity and significantly higher FOM, which clearly demonstrates its high sensing potential.
A Comprehensive Study of a Micro-Channel Heat Sink Using Integrated Thin-Film Temperature Sensors
Authors: Wang Tao , Wang Jiejun , He Jian , Wu Chuangui , Luo Wenbo , Shuai Yao , Zhang Wanli , Chen Xiancai , Zhang Jian , Lin Jia
Published: January 2018

A micro-channel heat sink is a promising cooling method for high power integrated circuits (IC). However, the understanding of such a micro-channel device is not sufficient, because the tools for studying it are very limited. The details inside the micro-channels are not readily available. In this letter, a micro-channel heat sink is comprehensively studied using the integrated temperature sensors. The highly sensitive thin film temperature sensors can accurately monitor the temperature change in the micro-channel in real time. The outstanding heat dissipation performance of the micro-channel heat sink is proven in terms of maximum temperature, cooling speed and heat resistance. The temperature profile along the micro-channel is extracted, and even small temperature perturbations can be detected. The heat source formed temperature peak shifts towards the flow direction with the increasing flow rate. However, the temperature non-uniformity is independent of flow rate, but solely dependent on the heating power. Specific designs for minimizing the temperature non-uniformity are necessary. In addition, the experimental results from the integrated temperature sensors match the simulation results well. This can be used to directly verify the modeling results, helping to build a convincing simulation model. The integrated sensor could be a powerful tool for studying the micro-channel based heat sink.
Three-Dimensional Terahertz Coded-Aperture Imaging Based on Single Input Multiple Output Technology
Authors: Chen Shuo , Luo Chenggao , Deng Bin , Wang Hongqiang , Cheng Yongqiang , Zhuang Zhaowen
Published: January 2018

As a promising radar imaging technique, terahertz coded-aperture imaging (TCAI) can achieve high-resolution, forward-looking, and staring imaging by producing spatiotemporal independent signals with coded apertures. In this paper, we propose a three-dimensional (3D) TCAI architecture based on single input multiple output (SIMO) technology, which can reduce the coding and sampling times sharply. The coded aperture applied in the proposed TCAI architecture loads either purposive or random phase modulation factor. In the transmitting process, the purposive phase modulation factor drives the terahertz beam to scan the divided 3D imaging cells. In the receiving process, the random phase modulation factor is adopted to modulate the terahertz wave to be spatiotemporally independent for high resolution. Considering human-scale targets, images of each 3D imaging cell are reconstructed one by one to decompose the global computational complexity, and then are synthesized together to obtain the complete high-resolution image. As for each imaging cell, the multi-resolution imaging method helps to reduce the computational burden on a large-scale reference-signal matrix. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed architecture can achieve high-resolution imaging with much less time for 3D targets and has great potential in applications such as security screening, nondestructive detection, medical diagnosis, etc.
Development of a Label-Free Immunosensor for Clusterin Detection as an Alzheimer’s Biomarker
Authors: Islam Kamrul , Damiati Samar , Sethi Jagriti , Suhail Ahmed , Pan Genhua
Published: January 2018

Clusterin (CLU) has been associated with the clinical progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and described as a potential AD biomarker in blood plasma. Due to the enormous attention given to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers for the past couple of decades, recently found blood-based AD biomarkers like CLU have not yet been reported for biosensors. Herein, we report the electrochemical detection of CLU for the first time using a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) modified with 1-pyrenebutyric acid N-hydroxysuccinimide ester (Pyr-NHS) and decorated with specific anti-CLU antibody fragments. This bifunctional linker molecule contains succinylimide ester to bind protein at one end while its pyrene moiety attaches to the carbon surface by means of π-π stacking. Cyclic voltammetric and square wave voltammetric studies showed the limit of detection down to 1 pg/mL and a linear concentration range of 1–100 pg/mL with good sensitivity. Detection of CLU in spiked human plasma was demonstrated with satisfactory recovery percentages to that of the calibration data. The proposed method facilitates the cost-effective and viable production of label-free point-of-care devices for the clinical diagnosis of AD.
An Inverse Neural Controller Based on the Applicability Domain of RBF Network Models
Authors: Alexandridis Alex , Stogiannos Marios , Papaioannou Nikolaos , Zois Elias , Sarimveis Haralambos
Published: January 2018

This paper presents a novel methodology of generic nature for controlling nonlinear systems, using inverse radial basis function neural network models, which may combine diverse data originating from various sources. The algorithm starts by applying the particle swarm optimization-based non-symmetric variant of the fuzzy means (PSO-NSFM) algorithm so that an approximation of the inverse system dynamics is obtained. PSO-NSFM offers models of high accuracy combined with small network structures. Next, the applicability domain concept is suitably tailored and embedded into the proposed control structure in order to ensure that extrapolation is avoided in the controller predictions. Finally, an error correction term, estimating the error produced by the unmodeled dynamics and/or unmeasured external disturbances, is included to the control scheme to increase robustness. The resulting controller guarantees bounded input-bounded state (BIBS) stability for the closed loop system when the open loop system is BIBS stable. The proposed methodology is evaluated on two different control problems, namely, the control of an experimental armature-controlled direct current (DC) motor and the stabilization of a highly nonlinear simulated inverted pendulum. For each one of these problems, appropriate case studies are tested, in which a conventional neural controller employing inverse models and a PID controller are also applied. The results reveal the ability of the proposed control scheme to handle and manipulate diverse data through a data fusion approach and illustrate the superiority of the method in terms of faster and less oscillatory responses.
Voltammetric Response of Alizarin Red S-Confined Film-Coated Electrodes to Diol and Polyol Compounds: Use of Phenylboronic Acid-Modified Poly(ethyleneimine) as Film Component
Authors: Takahashi Shigehiro , Suzuki Iwao , Ojima Takuto , Minaki Daichi , Anzai Jun-ichi
Published: January 2018

Alizarin red S (ARS) was confined in layer-by-layer (LbL) films composed of phenylboronic acid-modified poly(ethyleneimine) (PBA-PEI) and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) to study the voltammetric response to diol and polyol compounds. The LbL film-coated gold (Au) electrode and quartz slide were immersed in an ARS solution to uptake ARS into the film. UV-visible absorption spectra of ARS-confined LbL film suggested that ARS formed boronate ester (ARS-PBS) in the film. The cyclic voltammetry of the ARS-confined LbL film-coated electrodes exhibited oxidation peaks at −0.50 and −0.62 V, which were ascribed to the oxidation reactions of ARS-PBS and free ARS, respectively, in the LbL film. The peak current at −0.62 V increased upon the addition of diol or polyol compounds such as L-dopa, glucose, and sorbitol into the solution, depending on the concentration, whereas the peak current at −0.50 V decreased. The results suggest a possible use of ARS-confined PBA-PEI/CMC LbL film-coated Au electrodes for the construction of voltammetric sensors for diol and polyol compounds.
Le karst du gypse des Andes de Mendoza-Neuquen (Argentine)
Authors: Salomon Jean-Noël , Bustos Roberto
Published: January 2018

Las formaciones yesife-ras son muy desarrolladas en los Andes a la latitud de Santiago (Chile) y de Mendoza (Argentina), a donde han jugado un papel fundamental durante las fases orogénicas andinas. Despues de describir brevemente et contexto geologico de la cordillera y indicar las principales formaciones yesiferas (Tabanos, Auquilco, Huitrin, Papol), los autores evocan el contexto climatico muy particular de la alta cordillera : un ambiente frio (altitud elevada) y seco, al parecer poco favorable a la aparicion de feno-menos carsticos. Sin embargo estos existen y a veces son espectaculares (Pozo de las Animas). Las principales formas son domos y dolinas mientras que los fondos de los valles se desar-rollan costras travertinosas. El endo-carsto tiene la desventaja de tener rocas que encajonan fragiles y que evolucionan con rapidez ; sin embargo numerosas cuevas se han desarrol-lado de las cuales algunas son importantes (Cueva del Leon, 1 km).
Traçages en bordure du système karstique de Vaucluse
Authors: Couturaud Alain , Puig Jean-Michel
Published: January 2018

Un double traçage a été réalisé en 1989 sur la bordure de l'important système karstique de Vaucluse : 25 kg de fluorescéine au trou du Vent (ait. 1335 m) en face N du Mt. Ventoux, 20 kg de sulforho-damine dans la perte d'un ruisseau à Méthamis (ait. 280 m), en période de crue. La surveillance a porté sur une vingtaine de points (forages et exutoires) et a duré 9 mois pour la fontaine de Vaucluse, dans des conditions d'étiage exceptionnel. 2000 analyses ont porté sur 400 fluocapteurs et 700 prélèvements. Seule la fluorescéine a été mise en évidence à la fontaine de Vaucluse, montrant une participation de la face N du Ventoux dans l'alimentation, et une vitesse apparente de 20 m/h au début de la réapparition, pour une distance de 31 km et une dénivelée de 1250 m.
Desenvolvimento de um programa computacional para elaboração de Tabela Nutricional
Authors: Wojeicchowski José Pedro , De Souza Leone Roberta , Praxedes Marco Aurélio
Published: January 2018

A tabela nutricional é obrigatória para a grande maioria dos alimentos produzidos, comercializados e embalados na ausência do consumidor, com a função de informar as propriedades nutricionais de um alimento. Para a sua elaboração é necessário a realização de análises laboratoriais ou utilizar banco de dados de alimentos para efetuar os cálculos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi criar um programa, na linguagem VBA-Excel, para facilitar a elaboração de Tabelas nutricionais, utilizando a TACO como banco de dados. Rotinas foram escritas no editor VBA do Excel. Essas solicitam informações dos usuários, realizam os cálculos e apresentam a tabela finalizada. O usuário precisa entrar com os dados de rendimento da formulação, selecionar a porção e adicionar os ingredientes e suas respectivas quantidades.  Ao concluir a adição a tabela nutricional é apresentada no seu modelo vertical A, de modo instantâneo. O programa mostrou-se uma ferramenta eficaz e simples de ser operada, uma alternativa aso métodos laboratoriais e mais prático do que realizar os cálculos manualmente, ou por meio de planilhas simples.
Les nouvelles politiques d’ empowerment dans l’accès aux ressources halieutiques en Afrique du Sud. Comparaison entre Péninsule du Cap (Western Cape) et Wild Coast (Eastern Cape)
Authors: Surmont Emmanuelle , Guyot Sylvain
Published: January 2018

L’État Sud-africain a mis en place à partir de 2016 une nouvelle politique : la Small Scale Fisheries Policy. Cette dernière, décidée dès 2012, est l’aboutissement de plusieurs années d’actions de lobbying menées par des associations de pêcheurs et des universitaires. Elle renouvelle le statut des communautés de pêcheurs de subsistance et permet aux populations non blanches – spoliées de leurs droits de pêche pendant l’apartheid – de retrouver ces droits grâce à une légalisation de leurs pratiques. Dans cet article, nous décrivons les objectifs et la mise en application de cette nouvelle politique dans deux contextes territoriaux différents : la Péninsule du Cap, zone urbaine à dominante Coloured , et la Wild Coast, zone rurale essentiellement African . Nous analysons les problèmes soulevés par cette « politique d’ empowerment  », qui peut sembler contradictoire dans ses termes. Enfin, nous montrerons que « la prise de pouvoir » des populations non-blanches sur leur destinée s’est effectuée avec des temporalités et des spatialités très différentes entre les deux zones étudiées.
Vivre dans un établissement médico-social d’hébergement pour adultes handicapés en France : quels choix résidentiels ? Le point de vue des usagers
Authors: Rapegno Noémie , Ravaud Jean-François
Published: January 2018

Cet article privilégie le point de vue des usagers et analyse la façon dont les adultes handicapés vivant en établissement médico-social ont choisi leur lieu de vie. Il se fonde sur 76 entretiens menés auprès d’adultes ayant des déficiences motrices sévères et vivant dans un établissement médico-social, dans deux régions françaises (Ile-de-France et Haute-Normandie). Face à de fortes disparités territoriales de l’offre en structures d’hébergement, les personnes handicapées vivant en établissement font face à des contraintes particulières, des formes d'inégalités imbriquées et cumulatives entre elles étant spécifiques à ce lieu de vie. L’entrée en établissement constitue un choix sous contraintes. Le capital social des personnes, constitué par les familles et les professionnels paramédicaux joue un rôle non négligeable dans le choix de l’établissement, cela pouvant aller jusqu’à une remise de soi, c’est-à-dire à une démission ou à une délégation totale, de la part des personnes handicapées. La proximité familiale et l’accessibilité de l’environnement sont primordiales dans le choix de l’établissement. Le projet d’établissement, ses caractéristiques architecturales et le profil des autres résidents entrent aussi en compte, à un degré moindre.
Optimizing Pain Management Through Opioid Deprescribing
Authors: Lumish Rachel , Goga Joshana K. , Brandt Nicole J.
Published: January 2018

The use of opioid drug therapy in older adults has increased over the past decade. Although use of opioid drugs may be clinically warranted, ongoing use needs to be monitored closely to evaluate risks and benefits, especially with the potential for adverse events and misuse. An opioid drug deprescribing protocol would provide clinicians with a method to assess an individual's need for opioid agents, as well as a systematic process to taper opioid drug therapy when deemed appropriate. Although more than 60 studies have reported methods for deprescribing, there is currently no established guideline for discontinuing opioid medications. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has developed an algorithm to assist clinicians with opioid drug discontinuation decision making. As efforts to discontinue opioid drugs for chronic non-cancer pain in older adults continue to expand, nurses, as an integral part of the inter-professional team, will play a key role in monitoring and assessing patients' pain and care plans. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44
(1), 9–14.]
Inventarios de música. Metodología para la identificación de composiciones y el establecimiento de concordancias: el caso de los inventarios de la capilla de música de la catedral de Málaga (1800-1836) y las obras en castellano de Jaime Balius
Authors: De la Torre Molina María José
Published: January 2018

Durante el primer tercio del siglo XIX, los músicos de la Capilla de la Catedral de Málaga redactaron doce inventarios, en los que se recogieron los bienes propiedad del conjunto. En su mayoría, composiciones musicales destinadas a las “funciones contratadas” (ceremonias para las que la agrupación actuaba contratada por comitentes distintos del Cabildo Catedralicio). El repertorio que los inventarios dejan entrever es muy variado: Hay en él creaciones de compositores extranjeros y de muchos de los maestros de Capilla más sobresalientes de la España de la época. Sin embargo, varios factores dificultan la identificación de autores y obras, así como el establecimiento de concordancias entre unos inventarios y otros. En este artículo se presentan una serie de estrategias destinadas a la superación de estos problemas. Se partirá del estudio de un caso concreto, el de las obras en castellano de Jaime Balius (1750-1822).
The Role of Infographics for the Development of Skills for Cognitive Modeling in Education
Authors: Damyanov Ivo , Tsankov Nikolay
Published: January 2018

Contemporary culture is a visual culture. Visual images become the predominant form of communication. Students should be visually literate and be able to read and use visual language, to decode, interpret and evaluate visual messages successfully, and, last but not least, to encode and compose meaningful visual communication. The combination of modeling with other methods in scientific knowledge increases its potential as a cognitive method. Infographics can play a significant role in the process as tool or target according to the age and cognitive abilities of the students. Information images (infographics) are visual representations of information, data or knowledge. The use of infographics as a modeling method can develop different cognitive skills such as interpretation, analysis, assessment, conclusion, explanation, which are all part of the modeling process. In fact, they can be a tool for achieving the next stage of literacy - visual literacy. All this necessitates the exploration of infographics as an instrument in the development of a comprehensive system of cognitive tasks in education related to the formation of skills for modeling. In the paper, six types of cognitive tasks in education are analyzed as well as their relation to the visual literacy competence standards approved by the Association of College & Research Libraries. A comparison of freely available infographics tools is provided and the suitability of different infographics templates is discussed.
High Performance Concrete with Ternary Binders
Authors: Bilek Vlastimil , Pytlík David , Bambuchova Marketa
Published: January 2018

Use a ternary binder for production of a high performance concrete with a compressive strengths between 120 and 170 MPa is presented. The water to binder ratio of the concrete is 0.225 and the binder is composed of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), condensed silica fume (CSF), ground limestone (L), fly ash (FA) and metakaoline (MK). The dosage of (M + CSF) is kept at a constant level for a better workability of fresh concrete. Different workability, flexural and compressive strengths were obtained for concretes with a constant cement and a metakaoline dosage, and for a constant dosage (FA + L) but a different ratio FA / L. An optimum composition was found and concretes for other tests were designed using this composition.
Composites Obtained from Alumina and Polymer Derived Ceramic
Authors: Machado Glauson Aparecido Ferreira , Rocha Rosa Maria , Bressiani Ana Helena Almeida
Published: January 2018

Alumina-mullite composites with low shrinkage can be made by reaction bond using mixtures of alumina, aluminum and silicon carbide. In this work, an alternative route is used to produce alumina composites with low shrinkage. Here alumina samples containing additions of 10 and 20 wt% of a preceramic polymer were warm-pressed and treated in the range of 900 -1500°C to produce alumina based composites. The obtained composites were analyzed by linear shrinkage and compared to pure alumina samples sintered at the same temperature range. It were also evaluated the density variation and crystalline phases formed during heat treatment of alumina composites. Results showed that alumina-silicon oxycarbide and alumina-mullite composites were obtained with lower shrinkage than pure alumina samples.
Evaluation of Bonding Resistance after Surface Treatment of Two Glass-Ceramics Used in Dentistry
Authors: Melo-Silva Cláudio Luis , Melo-Silva Tereza Cristina Favieri , Carvalho Cristiane Fonseca , Teixeira A.B. , Carvalho E.C. , Carvalho A.S. , Araujo F.A. , Gouvêa J.P. , Lins Jefferson Fabrício Cardoso
Published: January 2018

The goal of this study was to evaluate the bonding resistance of two dental ceramics. The samples, one of each type of ceramics, were split into 4 groups (n=4) separated from those from control group, the others were conditioned with 5% hydrofluoric acid, according to the times of 20, 40 and 60 seconds. Cylindrical pins of resin cement were applied in each sample. After a shearing test, the obtained results showed that experimental groups has given higher bonding strength values than the control groups for both ceramics. For the e.max ceramic, the highest values were observed with timings of 20 and 40 seconds and for the Suprinity ceramic the conditioning timings were insignificant. The authors concluded that the surface treatment with hydrofluoric acid improved the bonding strength for both ceramics; and the e.max ceramic showed higher bonding values than the Suprinity.
Analysis of Catalytic Potential of a New Heterogeneous Catalyst in the Preparation of Biodiesel
Authors: Storti Fernando , Nobre Marcos A.L. , Lanfredi Silvania
Published: January 2018

In this work was investigated the catalytic potential of a new heterogeneous catalyst of stoichiometry Ca0.5K0.5TiCu0.25O3 , with double perovskite structure, in the preparation of biodiesel via ethylic route. The catalyst was synthesized by the Polyol Modified method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The investigation of the catalytic activity was carried out from transesterification reaction of commercial soybean oil with ethyl alcohol. Single-phase and crystalline powders related to the CaTiO3 phase were obtained with an average crystallite size at around 17.25 nm. The new catalyst showed high efficiency for the production of biodiesel via heterogeneous catalysis with a yield at around 97%, with reaction time of 8 hours at 78°C and 15% of catalyst mass in relation to the soybean oil mass.
Use of Nickel Slag as Raw Material for Roof Tiles Production
Authors: Kallas Fabio Pimenta Esper , Montedo Oscar Rubem Klegues , Innocentini Murilo Daniel de Mello
Published: January 2018

The aim of this work was to study the feasibility of incorporation of nickel slag as a raw material for production of roof tiles. Tests were carried out with the addition of different percentages of slag in the clay mass in order to find the composition for optimized product’s properties. The results indicated that the addition of up to 25% of nickel slag was advantageous, with an increase in density and mechanical strength and reduction of permeability and water absorption. There was no change in the leaching parameters measured according to the Brazilian Technical Standards.
Obtainment of Porous Ceramic Structures: A Comparison among Different Compositions and Methods of Conformation
Authors: Simão Lisandro , Fabris Débora Cristina Niero , Machado Morgana de Medeiros , Caldato Rafael , Innocentini Murilo Daniel de Mello , Montedo Oscar Rubem Klegues
Published: January 2018

This paper presents comparative results concerning to the obtaining of porous ceramic structures obtained by pressing, slip casting and polymeric sponge method. Three compositions were prepared, using calcium carbonate as pore-generating agent and characterized by X-ray fluorescence, thermogravimetric analysis and determination of sintering behavior. Each formulation was wet mixed and dried. Then, each formulation was formed by each one of the investigated methods. The obtained samples were dried and heat treated with the appropriate heating rate for calcium carbonate degasification and sintered at 900, 1100 and 1180 °C. The sintered samples were characterized by determination of porosity, crystalline phases formed, compressive strength and permeability. Results showed that porosity and permeability depends strongly on the composition and used conformation method.
Study of Abrasive Cutting of Natural Quartz for Manufacturing Piezoelectric Power Generators
Authors: Araujo Luis Antonio Oliveira , Rollo J.M.D.A. , Foschini C.R. , Fortulan Carlos Alberto
Published: January 2018

The present study is related with the dicing of natural quartz crystals as part of the process manufacturing of a power generator device. Power generation is important, mainly for wifi systems, which use of batteries is restrictive or impossible due short dimensions and difficult of maintenance. The manufacturing dicing process applied in micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) is the main reference for this study, which objective is explores different parameters of dicing process and the impact of it in the final performance of the generator. Failure impregnation and productivity were study in blade and band saw process with different parameters as speed and cutting force. The natural quartz was selected mainly because availability in Brazil and piezoelectric properties. It was obtained substrates AT cutting plan with thickness of 2.5mm and width of 3mm. The material was tested under compressive stress and the correspondent electric signal was obtained.
Alumina Membrane Development with Carbon Fiber as Porosity Precursor
Authors: Consonni Cíntia Rejane , Tsunaki Roberto Hideaki , Fortulan Carlos Alberto
Published: January 2018

Alumina membrane for microfiltration has been studied by introduction of carbon fiber as porogenic agent. Ceramic membranes have advantages due to its inert chemical and resistance to relatively high temperatures, however, being porous, tend not to withstand high pressures. This work investigates the possibility of introducing carbon fibers so, after firing, rest communication channels and owing to the increased probability of contact between fibers, achieve high permeability with maintaining the mechanical strength. Formulations were proposed with variations of fiber length, concentration and burn at two temperatures. They were characterized by linear shrinkage, porosity, density, permeability, 3 points flexural strength, SEM and MicroCT. The Taguchi method correlated the parameters: fiber length, fiber concentration and burn temperature and validated by ANOVA. The combination that best met the commitment was 3% v/v of 1mm fibers and burnt at 1500°C, with Darcyana permeability of 3.44 10-15m2 and fracture stress of 56.27MPa.
Analysis of the Photocatalytic Potential of the C/TiO2 Composite
Authors: Zocolaro Gabriela Delli Colli , Silveira Gisele S. , Nobre Marcos A.L. , Lanfredi Silvania
Published: January 2018

The control of environmental pollution has led to an intensive search for innovative and efficient technologies for wastewater treatment, especially those with toxic or non-biodegradable compounds. In this sense, this work involved the preparation of a hybrid composite of TiO2 with amorphous carbon by partial pyrolysis method and the analysis of their photocatalytic potential using phenol red dye as a test molecule. The composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The evaluation of morphology and the structural characterization of the powder confirmed the formation of the hybrid composite of TiO2 dispersed in a carbon matrix with turbostratic structure, organized in the shape of overlapping plates. The composite presented a discoloration rate of 67% after 4 hours of irradiation. The photocatalytic reaction follows a kinetics of first order type.
Intercalation and Characterization of Kaolinite Amazon to Production Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Neto José Costa de Macêdo , Neto João Evangelista , Cruz Ricardo Wilson , Barreda Eduardo Rafael , do Nascimento Nayra Reis , Lopes Arlindo Pires , Lona Liliane Maria Ferrareso
Published: January 2018

Polymer nanocomposites using natural clays such as nanofiller have mechanical properties, flame-retardant, the gas barrier improvement compared to polymers without nanoclay. The aim of this work is intercalated molecules between the clay layers and characterize it with a view to its use in polymer nanocomposites. The kaolinite neat and modified used was characterized by fourier transform spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XDR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetry (TGA). The results showed that kaolinite can be used as a nanofiller in polymer nanocomposites.
Models Manufacturing of Crystal Systems: An Introduction to Ceramic Materials
Authors: Sancho Emmanuelle de Oliveira , Araújo Eduardo Albuquerque , Conde Willamy Siqueira , Saraiva Isabella Rodrigues , Maia Rayssa Cortez Braga , Oliveira Lúcia Maria Barbosa , Sales Juscelino Chaves , Sombra Antonio Sérgio Bezerra , Albuquerque José Sílvio Veras
Published: January 2018

It is presented a teaching methodology that uses models to better understanding and visualization of crystal systems, considering the large number of students with limited vision spatial perception. The understanding of the relationship between the structure of materials with their properties is essential for engineering students in which it’s possible to relate mechanical properties through knowledge of the crystalline structure of the material, such as machining, heat treatment, mechanical forming processes, etc. The parameter identification of: number of atoms, coordination number, atomic packing factor and density is emphasized in the crystalline systems. Students first study the structure of the crystalline solid and the main crystal systems, key issues for further understanding of the remaining content. Knowing the structure of crystalline solids and understanding its applicability in engineering, makes all the difference to motivate students during the course. With the inclusion of this methodology there has been a better understanding of the concepts related to crystalline systems, as the students build their own structures with the most suitable material chosen by them.
Preparation of Molecular Sieve Al-SBA-15 with Two Ratios Si/Al Catalyst for Use in the Transesterification Reaction of Soybean Oil
Authors: Marinho Janaína C. , Barbosa Tellys. L.A. , Rodrigues Meiry Gláucia Freire
Published: January 2018

Molecular sieves have been applied to the triacylglycerides processing in the production of biodiesel through transesterification reaction. The purpose of obtain a material that has characteristics favorable to higher biodiesel conversion, this paper aims to synthesize molecular sieves SBA-15 and Al-SBA-15 on two reasons Si/Al (Si/Al= 10 and 100) evaluated in the transesterification reaction of soybean oil and investigate the potential of Si/Al ratios in the reaction over the acid each material. The catalysts were prepared by conventional hydrothermal method by varying the composition of the aluminum consequently altering the acidity of the material, since this reaction takes place in acid medium. The samples were characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Spectroscopy in the infrared region by Fourier transform (FTIR). The results of the characterization of the catalysts have shown that the materials were successfully obtained, from the characterization observed. The biodiesel syntheses were conducted with soybean oil using ethyl alcohol 12: 1 relative to the oil and 5% of catalyst in the reactor with autogenous pressure. Were realized viscosity analyzes as conversion parameter of the vegetable oil into biodiesel. From the results of biodiesel viscosity was obtained a yield of 13% on average by using the Al-SBA-15. However, even not have remained within the specifications the standards of the National Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels, catalysts showed efficiency compared with the SBA-15 in biodiesel synthesis.
Study of the Addition Effect of Fe2O3 and Al2O3 Originated from Pectin Citrus in the Glassy Phase on the Microestructural Development and in the Mechanical Characteristics of the Triaxial Ceramics
Authors: Przybysz Aldo , Chinelatto Adilson Luiz , Anaissi Fauze Jacó
Published: January 2018

Triaxial ceramics are multiphased materials produced from natural raw material. That a small modification as much concerning in the composition from raw material a ceramic mass, may change several properties from ceramics. Thus, was included into the ceramic mass Al2O3 and Fe2O3, however both originated from pectin citrus plus salt the intended respective metal source. These oxides have a particular physical characteristic as high softness and high porosity. In addition to the ceramic mass containing 10% of clay, 25% kaolin, 35% feldspar and 30% of alumina (Ind. Alcoa) was inserted 6% of Fe2O3 and the full replacement of commercial alumina by Al2O3(pec). The result from these oxides are satisfactory mainly. Influencing in thermal contraction, in the reduction of the residual porosity and changing the final color inthe product.
Ni-GDC Nanocomposite Material Prepared by Aqueous Based Tape Casting
Authors: Cruz Luana Barbosa , da Silva Antonio Carlos , Acchar Wilson , Lima Pedro , Paes Jr. Herval R.
Published: January 2018

In this work aqueous-based tape casting was used to produce Ni-GDC substrates. Rheological properties of the slurries were measured at room temperature. The acrylic-based suspensions showed a pseudoplastic behavior and remained stable and homogeneous. Tapes with thickness between 100 and 220 um were produced and showed smooth and homogeneous surfaces and good flexibility. Sintered tapes showed good density and porosity values.
Retrocaval ureter-classic imaging appearance
Authors: Ilyas Mohd , Ellahi Inayat , Shafi Fahad , Rafiq Suhail , Choh Naseer
Published: January 2018

The appearance of (reverse “J” or “fishhook”) of the classic type of retrocaval ureter on intravenous urogram and computed tomographic urography are presented in this report. It is an uncommon cause of urinary tract obstruction and every clinician, radiologist, and the surgeon must be familiar with its imaging appearances.
The dietary fat–heart disease hypothesis: An ongoing debate
Authors: Anaizi Nasr
Published: January 2018

The belief that the consumption of saturated fat as the primary source of daily energy needs is detrimental to heart health has held a firm grip on public consciousness for decades. It was initially based entirely on tenuous observational (correlation) studies but was later bolstered by a vast array of evidence and more direct observations from long-term randomized controlled trials and dietary intervention studies. Further support also came from the elucidation of the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms involved in atherogenesis. However, in recent years, the association between dietary saturated fat and heart disease has come under attack based mainly on meta-analyses and large multinational studies most of which relying on questionnaires and diet recall. More recent publications have elevated the debate to a new level, leading some experts to question the evidence behind commonly accepted dietary recommendations, attracting media attention, and generating heated debates. Here, the most relevant studies will be reviewed defining the salient issues and where the proponents and opponents of the hypothesis stand.
Вероятности малых уклонений взвешенной суммы независимых положительных случайных величин, общая функция распределения которых может убывать в нуле достаточно быстро
Authors: Rozovskii Leonid Victorovich
Published: January 2018

В заметке приведены наиболее общие на сегодняшний день условия, при которых имеет место классическая асимптотика вероятностей малых уклонений взвешенной суммы независимых положительных случайных величин, общая функция распределения которых может убывать в нуле, в частности, экспоненциально быстро.