bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An assessment instrument of mind map product to assess students' creative thinking skill
Authors: Fardhila Regina Ratih , Istiyono Edi
Published: June 2019

Education is now more demanding for students to think more at a higher and more complex level. Mind map also builds creativity because it is more flexible in expressing ideas. The result of need assessment was the teachers cannot put on equation about creative thinking in test because the input of heterogeneous students, but they carried out project and practicum assessments, which required relatively much time, place and equipment. Therefore, the researchers develop instruments for assessing students' creative thinking skills at the high-school level trough mind map on valid and reliable biology subjects so that teachers can use them as a more efficient assessment tool. This research employed research and development (RD) method; adapting ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) model. Content validity was achieved using the Lawshe method; CVR formula, while the construct validity was achieved through exploratory factor analysis with the SPSS program and then confirm with confirmatory factor analysis using Lisrel program. It is found out that the construct validity was proven by the significant value of MSA and Loading Factor value. Suitability of the construct model with the data was indicate with p-value= 0.68 (≥0.05); Root Mean Square Error Approximation = 0.00 (≤0.08); and Goodness of Fit Index= 0.94 (0.90). The reliability of the instrument is 0.774, which means reliable. The assessment instrument of mind map product to assess creative thinking skill of students at the high school level in biology subjects has ten fit items in four factors; Flexibility, Elaboration, Originality, and Fluency.
Acupuncture to Improve Symptoms for Stable Angina: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Schlaeger Judith , Cai Hui Yan , Steffen Alana D , Angulo Veronica , Shroff Adhir R , Briller Joan E , Hoppensteadt Debra , Uwizeye Glorieuse , Pauls Heather A , Takayama Miho , Yajima Hiroyoshi , Takakura Nobuari , DeVon Holli A
Published: June 2019

Background

Acupuncture has demonstrated physiologic analgesic effects in Chinese patients with stable angina. One proposed mechanism of action for these analgesic effects is the downregulation of M1 macrophages, interleukin 1 beta, interleukin-6, interleukin-18, and tumor necrosis factor alpha.

Objective

This study aims to test a 10-session, 5-week acupuncture treatment protocol as a complementary therapy for symptoms of stable angina for American patients, who vary from Chinese patients in health care systems and other salient variables.

Methods

We are conducting a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 69 adults (35 assigned to initial acupuncture and 34 to an attention control condition) with a medically confirmed diagnosis of stable angina, whose pain and associated symptoms have not been controlled to their satisfaction with guideline-directed medical management. Participants in the experimental group will receive a standardized traditional Chinese medicine point prescription. The attention control group will view non–pain-related health education videos over 5 weeks equal to the 10 hours of treatment for the acupuncture group. Participants will complete the McGill Pain Questionnaire and the Seattle Angina Questionnaire-7, as well as have inflammatory cytokines measured at baseline and study completion. The primary outcomes are anginal pain and quality of life.

Results

This study has been funded over 2 years by the National Institutes of Health, National Institute for Nursing Research. We are currently recruiting and expect to have initial results by December 2020.

Conclusions

We will generate data on feasibility, acceptability, effect sizes, and protocol revisions for a future fully powered RCT of the protocol. Findings will help determine if patients with persistent ischemic symptoms experience a proinflammatory state and hyperalgesia caused by multiple neural and immune processes not always relieved with medication.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/14705
Virtual Reality for Screening of Cognitive Function in Older Persons: Comparative Study
Authors: Chua Sean Ing Loon , Tan Ngiap Chuan , Wong Wei Teen , Allen Jr John Carson , Quah Joanne Hui Min , Malhotra Rahul , Østbye Truls
Published: June 2019

Background

The prevalence of dementia, which presents as cognitive decline in one or more cognitive domains affecting function, is increasing worldwide. Traditional cognitive screening tools for dementia have their limitations, with emphasis on memory and, to a lesser extent, on the cognitive domain of executive function. The use of virtual reality (VR) in screening for cognitive function in older persons is promising, but evidence for its use is sparse.

Objective

The primary aim was to examine the feasibility and acceptability of using VR to screen for cognitive impairment in older persons in a primary care setting. The secondary aim was to assess the module’s ability to discriminate between cognitively intact and cognitively impaired participants.

Methods

A comparative study was conducted at a public primary care clinic in Singapore, where persons aged 65-85 years were recruited based on a cut-off score of 26 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale. They participated in a VR module for assessment of their learning and memory, perceptual-motor function, and executive function. Each participant was evaluated by the total performance score (range: 0-700) upon completion of the study. A questionnaire was also administered to assess their perception of and attitude toward VR.

Results

A total of 37 participants in Group 1 (cognitively intact; MoCA score≥26) and 23 participants in Group 2 (cognitively impaired; MoCA score<26) were assessed. The mean time to completion of the study was 19.1 (SD 3.6) minutes in Group 1 and 20.4 (3.4) minutes in Group 2. Mean feedback scores ranged from 3.80 to 4.48 (max=5) in favor of VR. The total performance score in Group 1 (552.0, SD 57.2) was higher than that in Group 2 (476.1, SD 61.9; P<.001) and exhibited a moderate positive correlation with scores from other cognitive screening tools: Abbreviated Mental Test (0.312), Mini-Mental State Examination (0.373), and MoCA (0.427). A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for the relationship between the total performance score and the presence of cognitive impairment showed an area under curve of 0.821 (95% CI 0.714-0.928).

Conclusions

We demonstrated the feasibility of using a VR-based screening tool for cognitive function in older persons in primary care, who were largely in favor of this tool.
COSTOS DE GENERACIÓN, INVERSIÓN Y PRECIOS DEL SECTOR ELÉCTRICO EN MÉXICO
Authors: Enríquez Alejandra , Ramírez José Carlos , Rosellón Juan
Published: June 2019

Los precios de la electricidad han registrado una marcada tendencia al alza desde la implementación de la reforma en el mercado eléctrico (RME) de México, que ha sido citada por algunos como evidencia de su fracaso. En este artículo estudiamos los determinantes de esa alza mediante la deducción de la curva de costos de generación de la Comisión Federal de Electricidad, antes de la entrada en vigor de la reforma, la construcción de datos horarios sobre precios promedios y el estudio de la relación entre precios y rentas de congestión. Los resultados principales del documento muestran que los tipos de tecnología de generación más rentables son los resultantes de la RME y que el aumento de los precios registrado durante los primeros años de la RME se explica, principalmente, por una creciente congestión de la red nacional de transmisión eléctrica más que por un diseño ineficiente de la competencia en el sector de generación.

 

GENERATION COSTS, INVESTMENT AND PRICES IN MEXICO’S ELECTRICITY SECTOR

ABSTRACT
Electricity prices have seen a consistent upward trend since the implementation of Mexico’s electricity market reform (EMR). This has been interpreted by some as a failure of the EMR. In this paper we study the determinants of such price increases. We calculate the generation cost curve of the Federal Electricity Commission prior to the entry into force of the reform. We then construct daily data on average prices during the EMR. We also finally study the relationship between prices and transmission congestion rents. Our main results indicate that the most profitable types of generation technology are the ones resulting from the EMR. Likewise, price increases have taken place despite the existence of a considerably larger number of competitors in the generation sector. Lastly, the strong correlation between prices and congestion revenues is evidence that the increase in prices under the EMR is mainly due to the growing congestion in the national electricity transmission network rather than due to an inefficient competitive market design in the generation sector.
Informational behaviour in Facebook focused on Brazilian popular music (BPM)
Authors: De Santana Júnior Célio Andrade , De Lima Steffane Ramires
Published: June 2019

Este estudio se realizó para investigar el comportamiento de la información de los usuarios de Facebook seguidores de una página dedicada a la música popular brasileña (MPB). El marco conceptual utilizado fue el modelo revisado de Wilson para el comportamiento informacional. La investigación cualitativa se desarrolló en dos pasos: 1) se elaboró una netnografía de usuarios en la página “Com açucar, com afeto” en Facebook para encontrar patrones de comportamiento colectivo y acciones específicas y 2) se entrevistó a treinta y dos usuarios para recopilar datos sobre su percepción. La netnografia reveló comportamientos colectivos al observar acciones compartidas, “me gusta” y comentarios; asimismo ayudó a descubrir en qué publicaciones, autores o incluso contenido es más popular y cómo reaccionan los usuarios a cada publicación. Los encargados de la página de Facebook “Com açucar, com afeto” satisfacen las necesidades emocionales y cognitivas de los visitantes; inicialmente, los usuarios miran la página debido al interés en MPB, pero el uso de la página evoluciona para satisfacer las necesidades emocionales y cognitivas para compartir experiencias basadas en los sentimientos y las emociones que genera la música. Las tres variables intermedias aparecen como las más significativas en el comportamiento de la información de los usuarios: a) psicológica, b) papel social e interpersonal y c) el entorno en sí.
Formation of regional management strategies of secondary resource handling
Authors: Tskhovrebov Eduard S.
Published: June 2019

Introduction. The article considers the problems of using regional-developed territorial methods of waste handling including solid municipal waste for forming regional management systems of waste handling. Issues of expedience of forming secondary resource handling management strategies (with plans of measures on their implementation and target parameters) at regional level are studied. The strategies can become fundamental goals for creation and development of waste treatment infrastructure, efficient mechanism of resource economy management and secondary resource handling in the system of Russian industrial, construction and municipal complex. Solving problems of resource saving and involving secondary resources in economic turnover is of great importance at the modern stage of development of Russia. The aim of the study is to develop a conceptual base for forming regional strategies of the secondary resource handling.
Materials and methods. The following materials are used for scientific research: legal certificates, specifications and technical documentation on the waste handling, published materials by domestic and foreign scientific researchers on the given subjects. Methods of scientific research are based on application of comparative and expert kinds of the analysis.
Results. The article suggests a methodical approach to creation of a concept of typical project of regional strategy of resource saving and secondary resource turnover, to definition of target regional activity indicators in the given area.
Conclusions. Scientific novelty of the research is in integrated system approach to solving the resource saving problems and secondary resource handling at the regional level. Introduction of results of this work will allow providing a scientific and methodical substantiation of creation and development of effective regional management systems in the field of secondary resource handling.
Hydraulic studies of bottom regulatory devices
Authors: Khodzinskaya Anna G. , Zommer Victor L.
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Accidents at underwater pipeline crossings lead to serious environmental consequences. The choice of the location of the pipeline junction made without accounting the general dynamics of the channel process, use of improper construction technology of underwater trenches and pipeline laying often result in their destruction, which are caused by erosion and pipe sagging. Existing methods for protecting the pipeline by soil or crushed stone filling, exposure embedding with sandbags, strengthening with flexible concrete mats and other materials are not always effective and, as a rule, are expensive.
Materials and methods. The article considers a method of protection of the main pipeline against erosion by means of through bottom devices of various types to determine their efficiency. Velocities of the flow are measured behind the bottom obstacles at the flow axis at several points in depth using the microcomputer flowmeter/velocimeter. The measuring sections are located at distances of 1 to 10 of flow depths from the bottom obstacles. The near-bottom velocities at the height of the roughness protrusions are calculated according to the dependences suggested by V.N. Goncharov.
Results. The article shows results of laboratory hydraulic investigations of a tray flow around four types of bottom obstacle models: solid flat wall, slotted flat wall, volumetric round-section obstacle of fixed synthetic strings and volumetric soft structure. All the studied design models cause a rearrangement of the velocity diagrams and a decrease of near-bottom velocities. However, only through-passing structures are suitable for sediment deposition behind the barriers. If the bottom velocities are reduced to values less than sediment-washing ones, sediments will be deposited behind the barriers at a certain relative distance determined in the work.
Conclusions. The investigated models of through bottom structures showed themselves to be quite effective in reducing the near-bottom speed and depositing sediments at a certain distance behind them. The most effective is the “volumetric” construction, since it gives the greatest reduction in relative velocities at a certain relative distance.
Influence of coolant flow rates on the heat exchanger parameter at variable operation modes
Authors: Rafalskaya Tatyana A. , Rudyak Valery Ya.
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Being used in various industries, heat exchangers most often work under conditions of variable coolant flows and temperatures. At the same time, the existing theories of calculating the heat exchanger operation modes are based on the use of constant unitless parameters at any operation mode. Taking into account the effect of coolant rates on the heat transfer coefficient of the heat exchangers, the given relations are bound to specific types of heat exchangers and can only be used at constant coolant temperatures. The purpose of this study is to obtain expressions for determining the effect of coolant flow rates on the variable heat exchanger parameter.

Materials and methods. The main variable operation modes for water-to-water heat exchangers used in heat supply systems are determined. Using simulation in the PTC Mathcad software, dependencies describing the change in the heat exchanger parameter for all the considered variable operation modes are defined. This made it possible to obtain a general formula for the change in the heat exchanger parameter for varying coolant flow rates. Coefficients in this formula take into consideration the effect of coolant temperatures, which cannot be known when calculating variable conditions, especially when the interconnected heat exchangers are operating.

Results. To test applicability of the existing relations describing the change in the heat exchanger parameter and of obtained formula, a large number of heat exchangers is calculated at variable operation modes. Comparison with the simulation results shows that the correlations of heat exchanger theories work well at the mode with constant coolant temperatures only, while their use at other operation modes can lead to large calculation errors.

Conclusions. The obtained formula allows finding the effect of coolant flow rates on the variable heat exchanger parameter. The formula can be used to predict the operation modes of large systems including a large number of various-type heat exchangers.
The interaction effects of CEO power, social connections and incentive compensation on firm value
Authors: Caton Gary L. , Goh Jeremy , Ke Jinghao
Published: June 2019

Using a regression interaction model and a biographical dataset, with which we can pinpoint periods during which friendships were likely to have developed, we study the relation between company value and the interplay between CEO power, CEO equity incentives and the friendliness of the board of directors. Consistent with our hypotheses developed below, we find that firm value tends to increase when equity incentives are combined with a friendly board of directors, and conclude that the negative effects of CEO power on firm value reported by others are limited to firms with weak CEO equity incentive compensation plans and arms-length boards of directors. We are the first to combine these datasets and show that friendship between powerful CEOs and their boards, when agency problems are mitigated through CEO compensation, leads to higher value.
Bacillus based microbial formulations: Optimization of the production process
Authors: Stamenkovic-Stojanovic Sandra , Karabegovic Ivana , Beskoski Vladimir , Nikolic Nada , Lazic Miodrag
Published: June 2019

Bacillus sp.-based microbial formulations have found wide application in many fields: from pharmacy and medicine to environmental protection and agriculture due to the ability of this species to produce various metabolites and to form endospores. Recently, these products have gained popularity as biopesticidal and phytostimulatory agents, which are a ?green? alternative to overused agrochemicals. In order to obtain a high-quality and long-lasting product with desired characteristics, it is necessary to optimize the production process at each stage, which implies coordinating the microbial species, the type and the conditions of microbial cultivation along with formulation technologies. This paper provides a concise overview of the most important findings in this area, regarding characteristics of microbial formulations and specific criteria that need to be met when such a product is formulated. It should serve as a beginning point for everyone starting new research, not just in the field of biofertilization and biological control of plant diseases, but generally in the field of biochemical engineering.
Application of waste polypropylene bags as filter media in coalescers for oily water treatment
Authors: Sokolovic Srdjan , Kiralj Arpad , Sokolovic Dunja , Jokic Aleksandar
Published: June 2019

The polypropylene fibers have been used in bed coalescers for separation of micro-sized oil droplets from water for a long time. Possibilities of applying different forms of polypropylene as filter beds are still being in the focus of many researches. The possibility of applying waste polypropylene bags used for packing vegetables (PPDJ) was investigated in this paper. The results are compared with results obtained by applying waste polypropylene fibers from carpet production (PP). It is well known that there are difficulties to separate the oils of low viscosity by polymer fiber beds. Due to the above mentioned, the presented research refers to separation of low viscosity mineral oil from water. The obtained experimental results confirm that the material PPDJ could be efficiently used as a bed material for coalescers. The critical velocity of 50 m h-1 could be reached at using both polypropylene forms that is from bags PPDJ and from the carpet industry PP, when the adequate bulk density of materials is used.
Automated Clustering for Data Analytics
Authors: Byrnes Paul E.
Published: June 2019

Today, auditors must consider the risks of material misstatement due to fraud during the financial statement audit (Messier, Glover, and Prawitt 2016). Current audit guidance recommends the use of data mining methods such as clustering to improve the likelihood of discovering irregularities during fraud risk assessment (ASB 2012). Unfortunately, significant challenges exist relative to using clustering in practice, including data preprocessing, model construction, model selection, and outlier detection. The traditional auditor is not trained to effectively address these complexities. One solution entails automation of clustering, thus eliminating the difficult, manual decision points within the clustering process. This would allow practitioners to focus on problem investigation and resolution, rather than being burdened with the technical aspects of clustering. In this paper, automated clustering is explored. In the process, each manual decision point is addressed, and a suitable automated solution is developed. Upon conclusion, a clustering application is formulated and demonstrated.
Pengaruh Model Learning Cycle Tipe 7E disertai Teknik Talking Stick Terhadap Sikap Ilmiah Siswa Pada Materi Protista
Authors: Puspita Laila , Budiman Haris , Thessalonica Meivi Aldona
Published: June 2019

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh model Learning Cycle Tipe 7E disertai teknik Talking Stick pada materi protista terhadap sikap ilmiah siswa kelas X SMA Negeri 8 Bandar Lampung. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah Quasi Eksperimen, dengan Posttest Only Control Design. Pengambilan sampel dilakukan dengan menggunakan Cluster Random Sampling. Pengambilan data menggunakan instrumen berupa angket dan lembar observasi sikap ilmiah dan analisis data menggunakan Uji-T Polled Varians. Hasil analisis data menunjukkan bahwa ttabel 2,437617 > ttabel 1,999624, maka dalam hal ini H0 ditolak dan Hi diterima sehingga dapat dinyatakan bahwa terdapat pengaruh model Learning Cycle Tipe 7E disertai teknik Talking Stick pada materi protista terhadap sikap ilmiah siswa kelas X SMA Negeri 8 Bandar Lampung.
X-Ray Diffraction Characterisation of Crystallinity and Phase Composition in Manganese Oxides Composite Prepared by Molten Salts
Authors: Hassan Mohd Faiz , Chan Kok Sheng
Published: June 2019

The manganese oxides composite was synthesised via a simple molten salts method using a purchased MnCl2•2H2O as structuring agent. The structural details of the sample are important to be studied and previously rarely reported. It was characterised using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and data analyses including fitting process were done by Search-Match and Origin software. The Vesta software was used to draw a diagram crystal structure of the as-prepared composite. The experimental results indicated that the composite has two phases, Mn3O4 and MnO2, in value of approximately 74.22% and 25.78%, separately. The composite was highly crystalline with 74.69% compared to 25.31% for amorphous. The crystallite size of the Mn3O4 and MnO2 were calculated in an average of 22 and 24 nm, respectively. However, the lattice strain of the as-prepared composite was obtained between 7.1 x 10-3 and 7.4 x 10-3. The lattice parameters for the Mn3O4 compound was a = 5.705 Å and c = 9.473 Å, whereas a = 9.390 Å, b = 2.477 Å, c = 4.705 Å correspond to the MnO2 compound. The obtained results concluded that the composite containing two different types of system structure (tetragonal and orthorhombic).
Acerca del proceso de investigación. Aprendizajes para construir un problema de investigación, avanzar en el trabajo de campo y redactar una tesis sin morir en el intento
Authors: Menazzi Luján
Published: June 2019

El artí­culo reflexiona y aporta aprendizajes acerca del proceso de investigación, desde la formulación del problema hasta su materialización en formato tesis. Se analiza el proceso de construcción de un problema de investigación, considerando el complejo ví­nculo entre lo teórico y lo empí­rico y las reformulaciones que este supone. También, se repasan algunos errores y lugares comunes en los que se suele caer en las primeras formulaciones del problema. A su vez, se indagan las potencialidades y caracterí­sticas del trabajo de campo con fuentes históricas y entrevistas y el proceso de escritura que este tipo de fuentes suponen. Se busca aportar aprendizajes y elaborar consejos para el desarrollo de un proceso de investigación y su materialización en el formato tesis, nutriéndose de técnicas y perspectivas de diversas disciplinas.
Pensar desigualdades, abordar trayectorias
Authors: Crego María Laura
Published: June 2019

La reseña del libro Living and working in poverty in Latin Americ. Trajectories of children, youth and adults pretende ser un aporte a las discusiones en torno a la desigualdad  y sus múltiples dimensiones. Reseña esta obra es una aporte necesario por dos motivos. En primer lugar, por la diversidad de estudios que presenta, aportando complejidad al campo pero también mostrando como se las trayectorias se tejen a partir de estrategias y elecciones de los actores frente a los condicionamientos estructurales. Por otro lado, por el aporte en clave metodológica que el abordaje de las trayectorias supone. En estos dos carriles se centra el presente trabajo.
Religião e paz: virtude e ação para uma ética da convivência | Religion and peace: virtue and action for an ethics of coexistence
Authors: Silva Hélerson
Published: June 2019

A partir de uma interpretação política da Ethica Nicomachea, procurou-se investigar a influência da isocracia ateniense, ou democracia participativa, no pensamento do filosófo de Estagira e sua contribuição ao mundo ocidental. Mediadas pela phronesis, as virtudes moral e intelectual permitem o estabelecimento de critérios deliberativos para os processos decisórios na ágora, garantindo a felicidade na pólis, mas não a paz na cena internacional. Enquanto a felicidade se apresenta como um “estado de espírito”, a paz, por sua vez, depende de arranjos no campo da política internacional, firmados ao longo dos tempos em ideais iluministas, liberais ou dos direitos humanos. A presença das religiões no espaço público moderno aparece como importante elemento de tensão ou legitimação do próprio estado-nação e de seu ordenamento jurídico, considerando ainda que elas devem ser levadas em conta quando se pleiteia uma paz mais duradoura.
Religião e justiça: uma análise a partir do estudo do Direito / Religion and justice: an analysis based on the study of Law
Authors: Peruzzo Pedro Pulzatto
Published: June 2019

O presente texto tem como objetivo refletir sobre a relação entre religião e justiça à luz da Constituição Federal de 1988 e do sentido dos direitos humanos como instrumento de construção solidária da paz. O tema foi trabalhado sob um viés antropológico, considerando o Direito na realidade e os sujeitos de direito como sujeitos de cultura e religião, ou seja, como indivíduos concretos.
Uma base ética das religiões mundiais em prol de uma ética mundial |An ethical basis of world religions
Authors: Nascimento Maria Liliane Oliveira do , Kirchner Renato
Published: June 2019

Este artigo apresenta uma reflexão sobre a formulação da Declaração de Ética Mundial, apresentada por Hans Küng no Segundo Parlamento das Religiões Mundiais, no ano de 1993. De acordo com o referido documento, a base ética comum das religiões mundiais encontra-se, em primeiro lugar, no princípio da humanidade: todo ser humano deve receber tratamento humano, e, também, no princípio milenar da “regra de ouro”: faze aos outros o que desejas que façam a ti. Jamais haverá progresso humano a não ser que se reconheça que os direitos humanos não podem existir sem responsabilidades humanas. O artigo conclui que a Declaração corrige a forma de pensar e poderia ser adotada por todas as instituições no mundo de maneira livre, servindo como referência para o processo civilizatório da humanidade.
In vitro evaluation of negative pressure generated during application of negative suction volumes by use of various syringes with and without thoracostomy tubes
Authors: Mezzles Marguerite J. , Murray Rebecca L. , Heiser Brian P.
Published: June 2019

OBJECTIVE

To determine the amount of negative pressure generated by syringes of various sizes with and without an attached thoracostomy tube and whether composition of thoracostomy tubes altered the negative pressure generated.

SAMPLE

Syringes ranging from 1 to 60 mL and 4 thoracostomy tubes of various compositions (1 red rubber catheter, 1 polyvinyl tube, and 2 silicone tubes).

PROCEDURES

A syringe or syringe with attached thoracostomy tube was connected to a pneumatic transducer. Each syringe was used to aspirate a volume of air 10 times. Negative pressure generated was measured and compared among the various syringe sizes and various thoracostomy tubes.

RESULTS

The negative pressure generated decreased as size of the syringe increased for a fixed volume across syringes. Addition of a thoracostomy tube further decreased the amount of negative pressure. The red rubber catheter resulted in the least amount of negative pressure, followed by the polyvinyl tube and then the silicone tubes. There was no significant difference in negative pressure between the 2 silicone tubes. The smallest amount of negative pressure generated was −74 to −83 mm Hg.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Limited data are available on the negative pressure generated during intermittent evacuation of the thoracic cavity. For the present study, use of a syringe of ≥ 20 mL and application of 1 mL of negative suction volume resulted in in vitro pressures much more negative than the currently recommended pressure of −14.71 mm Hg for continuous suction. Additional in vitro or cadaveric studies are needed.
Comparison of various types of inert gas components on efficacy of an alveolar recruitment maneuver in dorsally recumbent anesthetized horses
Authors: Varner Kelley M. , Hopster Klaus , Driessen Bernd
Published: June 2019

OBJECTIVE

To assess effects of nitrogen and helium on efficacy of an alveolar recruitment maneuver (ARM) for improving pulmonary mechanics and oxygen exchange in anesthetized horses.

ANIMALS

6 healthy adult horses.

PROCEDURES

Horses were anesthetized twice in a randomized crossover study. Isoflurane-anesthetized horses in dorsal recumbency were ventilated with 30% oxygen and 70% nitrogen (treatment N) or heliox (30% oxygen and 70% helium; treatment H) as carrier gas. After 60 minutes, an ARM was performed. Optimal positive end-expiratory pressure was identified and maintained for 120 minutes. Throughout the experiment, arterial blood pressures, heart rate, peak inspiratory pressure, dynamic compliance (Cdyn), and Pao2 were measured. Variables were compared with baseline values and between treatments by use of an ANOVA.

RESULTS

The ARM resulted in significant increases in Pao2 and Cdyn and decreases in the alveolar-arterial gradient in the partial pressure of oxygen in all horses. After the ARM and during the subsequent 120-minute phase, mean values were significantly lower for treatment N than treatment H for Pao2 and Cdyn. Optimal positive end-expiratory pressure was consistently 15 cm H2O for treatment N, but it was 10 cm H2O (4 horses) and 15 cm H2O (2 horses) for treatment H.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

An ARM in anesthetized horses might be more efficacious in improving Pao2 and Cdyn when animals breathe helium instead of nitrogen as the inert gas.
Effects of blood-derived products and sodium hyaluronate on equine synovial fluid cells and on synovial fluid from osteochondrotic joints of horses after arthroscopy and administration of treatment
Authors: Machado Thaís S. L. , Massoco Cristina O. , Silva Luis Cláudio L. C. , Fülber Joice , Moreira Juliana J. , Baccarin Raquel Y. A.
Published: June 2019

OBJECTIVE

To compare effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (IRAP), autologous processed plasma (APP), and sodium hyaluronate treatments on synovial fluid cells in vitro and on synovial fluid obtained from osteochondrotic joints of horses.

SAMPLE

Synovial fluid cells from 8 healthy equine tibiotarsal joints (in vitro experiment) and synovial fluid samples from 40 tibiotarsal joints of 25 horses with osteochondrosis dissecans (in vivo experiment).

PROCEDURES

Effects of various treatments on concentrations of prostaglandin (PG) E2, interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-10, and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) were analyzed in cell medium supernatant, and production of reactive oxygen species was analyzed by use of flow cytometry. In an in vivo experiment, synovial fluid samples were collected before and 48 hours after arthroscopy and treatment administration (8 joints/treatment) and evaluated to determine concentrations of hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, PGE2, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1, IL-10, and IL-1ra.

RESULTS

All in vitro treatments reduced reactive oxygen species production, PRP increased PGE2 concentrations, and PRP, IRAP, and APP increased IL-1ra concentrations. Only IRAP and APP increased IL-1 concentrations. For the in vivo experiment, PRP increased and IRAP decreased PGE2 concentrations in synovial fluid after arthroscopy. All treatments increased IL-1ra concentrations, but only sodium hyaluronate resulted in a significant increase in concentration, compared with the concentration for untreated joints. Also, IRAP reduced hyaluronic acid breakdown in synovial fluid.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

PRP should be used with caution in the period immediately after arthroscopy and treatment of osteochondrotic joints of horses. All treatments had antioxidant effects. Sodium hyaluronate, APP, and IRAP might help ameliorate joint inflammation.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of olopatadine following administration via nasogastric tube to healthy horses
Authors: Kuroda Taisuke , Nagata Shun-ichi , Tamura Norihisa , Mita Hiroshi , Kusano Kanichi , Mizobe Fumiaki , Takizawa Yoshimasa , Fukuda Kentaro , Kasashima Yoshinori
Published: June 2019

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the pharmacokinetics and antihistaminic effects (pharmacodynamics) of olopatadine in a small population of healthy horses after administration via nasogastric tube.

ANIMALS

4 healthy adult Thoroughbreds.

PROCEDURES

Olopatadine (0.1 mg/kg, once) was administered via nasogastric tube. Blood samples were collected at predetermined time points for pharmacokinetic analyses of the drug in plasma. Olopatadine effects were investigated by measurement of cutaneous wheals induced by ID histamine injection (0.1 mL [10 μg]/injection) at predetermined time points. Inhibition effect ratios were calculated on the basis of measured wheal size (area) after versus before olopatadine administration.

RESULTS

Mean ± SD maximum plasma olopatadine concentration was 48.8 ± 11.0 ng/mL approximately 1.5 hours after administration. Median terminal half-life was 6.11 hours. Mean ± SD maximal effect was 88.2 ± 4.9% inhibition approximately 3.5 hours after drug delivery, and the inhibition effect remained > 80% for 12.5 hours after treatment. No signs of adverse clinical effects were observed.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Results suggested olopatadine may have a strong, long-term inhibitory effect against histamine-induced wheals in the skin of horses. Clinical research with a larger number of horses is warranted.
Metabolic stability and its role in the discovery of new chemical entities
Authors: Słoczyńska Karolina , Gunia-Krzyżak Agnieszka , Koczurkiewicz Paulina , Wójcik-Pszczoła Katarzyna , Żelaszczyk Dorota , Popiół Justyna , Pękala Elżbieta
Published: June 2019

Determination of metabolic profiles of new chemical entities is a key step in the process of drug discovery, since it influences pharmacokinetic characteristics of therapeutic compounds. One of the main challenges of medicinal chemistry is not only to design compounds demonstrating beneficial activity, but also molecules exhibiting favourable pharmacokinetic parameters. Chemical compounds can be divided into those which are metabolized relatively fast and those which undergo slow biotransformation. Rapid biotransformation reduces exposure to the maternal compound and may lead to the generation of active, non-active or toxic metabolites. In contrast, high metabolic stability may promote interactions between drugs and lead to parent compound toxicity. In the present paper, issues of compound metabolic stability will be discussed, with special emphasis on its significance, in vitro metabolic stability testing, dilemmas regarding in vitro-in vivo extrapolation of the results and some aspects relating to different preclinical species used in in vitro metabolic stability assessment of compounds.
Forced degradation of tacrolimus and the development of a UHPLC method for impurities determination
Authors: Peterka Tanja Rozman , Lušin Tina Trdan , Bergles Jure , Ham Zoran , Grahek Rok , Urleb Uroš
Published: June 2019

An ultra-high performance liquid chromatography method for simultaneous determination of tacrolimus impurities in pharmaceutical dosage forms has been developed. Appropriate chromatographic separation was achieved on a BEH C18 column using gradient elution with a total run time of 14 min. The method was applied to analyses of commercial samples and was validated in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, sensitivity and specificity. It was found to be linear, precise and accurate in the range of 0.05 to 0.6 % of the impurities level in pharmaceutical dosage forms. Stability indicating power of the method was demonstrated by the results of forced degradation studies. The forced degradation study in solution revealed tacrolimus instability under stress alkaline, thermal, light and photolytic conditions and in the presence of a radical initiator or metal ions. The drug was stable at pH 3–5. Solid-state degradation studies conducted on amorphous tacrolimus demonstrated its sensitivity to light, elevated temperature, humidity and oxidation.
Secondary metabolites from the resins of Aloe vera and Commiphora mukul mitigate lipid peroxidation
Authors: Rehman Najeeb Ur , Al-Riyami Samia Ahmed , Hussain Hidayat , Ali Amjad , Khan Abdul Latif , Al-Harrasi Ahmed
Published: June 2019

Oxidative stress is often considered detrimental for cellular processes and damaging for the lipid bi-layer. Counteracting such stresses with the aid of nature-based chemical constituents can be an ideal therapeutic approach. The current study aimed to investigate the chemical constituents of resins derived from the well-known Aloe vera and less known Commiphora mukul trees and their effect in mitigating the lipid peroxidation (LPO) process. The bio-guided isolation of bio-active fractions from both resins afforded 20 chemical constituents (17 from A. vera and 3 from C. mukul). These compounds belonged to anthraquinones, anthraquinone glycosides, quinones, coumarins, polypodane-type terpenoids and benzene derivatives. Major chemical constituents of the resins of A. vera and C. mukul were from the classes of quinones and terpenoids. Feroxidin (4, from A. vera) showed slightly higher inhibition (IC
50 = 201.7 ± 0.9 µmol L−1) than myrrhanone C (18, from C. mukul: IC
50 = 210.7 ± 0.0 µmol L−1) and methyl 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl) propionate from A. vera (13, IC
50 = 232.9 ± 0.2 µmol L−1) compared to the other compounds. Structure-activity relationship showed that the existence of hydroxyl, methoxy and ether groups might play a major role in countering oxidative stress. To the best of our knowledge, anti-LPO activities of compounds 1–4, 14, 18 and 20 are reported for the first time. Such chemical constituents with high anti-lipid peroxidation activity could be helpful in synthesizing candidate drugs.
Comparison of high-performance thin layer chromatography/UV-densitometry and UV-derivative spectrophotometry for the determination of trimetazidine in pharmaceutical formulations
Authors: Gackowski Marcin , Koba Marcin , Mądra-Gackowska Katarzyna , Kruszewski Stefan
Published: June 2019

New methods for assaying trimetazidine dihydrochloride on the basis of thin layer chromatography and spectrophotometry are proposed and compared in the paper. In HPTLC/UV-densitometry, separation is achieved by using a mobile phase composed of ammonia-methanol (30:70, V/V) on silica gel HPTLC plates F254. Quantification using a non-linear calibration curve is accomplished by densito-metric detection at 230 nm. Derivative spectrophotometric determination of trimetazidine dihydrochloride is carried out from the fourth derivative of the absorbance at 233 nm in peak-zero mode. Statistical comparison led to the conclusion that there is no significant difference between the two studied methods and, moreover, that they demonstrate satisfactory accuracy and precision for routine applications.
Marking Sacred Ground through Imported Trees and Medieval European Sculpture at the Washington National Cathedral
Authors: Heavers Nathan
Published: June 2019

The landscape of the Washington National Cathedral contains a variety of sacred objects imported from Europe and Asia. They include stone sculptures and living flora. Many of the stone objects came from the collection of George Grey Barnard, an American sculptor, trained in Paris, who travelled Europe in the early 20th century purchasing medieval antiquities (Weinberger, 1941). How do we understand these displaced pieces incorporated into this new context? On the one hand, their use in the landscape brings it significance, a physical and tangible connection to the roots of Christianity. On the other hand, they remind us of the relative youth of this sacred landscape and the question of what makes places sacred. Is a place sacred because of something inherent to it or do we mark ordinary ground with significant objects to sanctify it? Largely, the Washington National Cathedral landscape seems to demonstrate the latter approach. Imported objects mark and validate the sacredness of the site from medieval stone archways to significant pairs of trees.
Assessment of Small Sacral Objects in the Senica Region, Slovakia
Authors: Bihuňová Mária , Michalica Adrián
Published: June 2019

The sacral objects have great meaning in the cultural landscape in Slovakia. There are several types according to the significance, size and location, which could be identified in the countries, where the major religion is Christianity. The paper deals with the assessment of the sacral objects from architectural and urban point of view and also according to the presence of greenery accompanying the object. The surveyed area was the Senica region, located in the western part of Slovakia. The hidden symbolism and meaning of these objects could be find in their formation and precise placement. The greenery, which was planted by them – the type and number – has also significant meaning. The group of trees draws attention to a small sacral object, which could be noticed from distance, they protect it and support it. There are descriptions and explanations in stories and memories. Obviously, in the past, these objects did not have only symbolic meaning, but also a concrete spiritual significance for society. The field survey was carried out in 2017. Several criteria were evaluated: the location of the objects, the architectural background and the trees inventory.
Reuse of Churches in Urban and Rural Dutch Landscapes
Authors: Netsch Stefan , Gugerell Katharina
Published: June 2019

European churches are confronted with the challenge of finding new uses for their church buildings. Due to a lack of members and income, the maintenance of their buildings cannot be ensured in the future; therefore, new applications and users are to be found. This task poses a considerable challenge, especially in a to a certain extent provincial and conservative country like the Netherlands, where people, even irreligious ones, perceive the church as a building that belongs to them. Besides having to deal with the building in an architectural way, there is a wide range of possibilities for reusing it; for example, community-based or mixed uses, commercial or residential ones. The eventual solution is mainly based on the church’s building type, the influence of the neighborhood, the owner’s financial possibilities, and the location. One of the present study’s main results suggests that uses which serve the community are more likely to be found in rural areas, consequently reflecting the importance of those buildings there.
Employment status and other predictors of mental health and cognitive functions in older Croatian workers
Authors: Bjelajac Adrijana Košćec , Bobić Jasminka , Kovačić Jelena , Varnai Veda Marija , Macan Jelena , Smolić Šime
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study was to examine mental health and cognitive functions in older Croatian workers (50–65 years) taking into account their employment status, self-assessed health, and a set of demographic characteristics. We analysed the data collected on 650 older workers (71 % employed) in the Wave 6 of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Unemployed workers reported symptoms of loneliness more often than the employed, while in rural areas unemployment was additionally associated with more pronounced symptoms of depression. Feeling of loneliness was also higher in those living without a partner in the household and in those with poorer health. In urban residents symptoms of depression were more severe in women, respondents with higher education, those living without a partner, and those who rated their health as poorer. As for cognitive functions, unemployment significantly predicted poorer subtraction in the rural subsample. Women in general showed less efficient numerical abilities. In the urban subsample poorer numerical abilities were also associated with lower education and living without a partner in the household. Better verbal recall was predicted by higher education and better self-rated memory. Higher scores in verbal fluency were predicted by urban residency and better self-rated health. Our results indicate that the protective factors for good mental health and cognitive functioning in older Croatian workers are being employed, having more education, living with a partner in the household, and being healthier. These findings stress the importance of implementing broader social policy strategies covering employment, education, and health.