bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KAChESTVO LEChENIYa POSTMENOPAUZAL'NOGO OSTEOPOROZA V MOSKOVSKOY OBLASTI
Authors: MARChENKOVA L. A. , DREVAL' A. V. , PROKhOROVA E. A.
Published: January 2018

Aim of the study. To examine the quality of treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis (OP), the level of commitment to therapy and the factors on which it depends, and the amount of social and economic costs associated with the treatment of OP in the Moscow Region (MR). Material and Methods. The study was conducted by questionnaire of 362 postmenopausal women aged 55 and older (median 65 (59, 70) years) from 17 districts and municipal entities of MR with verified diagnosis of postmenopausal OP. The questionnaire included a survey “Attitudes to the therapy of OP” and the scale of attitudes «Factors hindering receive quality medical care for OP. « Results. During the past year, respondents appealed to the medical facilities for OP treatment up to 15 times inclusive (an average of 2 (1, 4) times), 30.4% of patients were hospitalized or were unable to work due to the OP, in 14.3% of respondents disability leaf has lasted for more than six months. OP therapy in most cases was not assigned due to lack of adequate advice from the doctor, who did not insist on compulsory treatment (in reply to 50% of respondents) did not give clear recommendations (43.8%) or did not explain the specific instructions for the drug use ( 25.0%). When choosing a method of treatment 84% of respondents relied on the recommendations of the endocrinologist and the remaining 16% - of a gynecologist, rheumatologist, orthopedist, or trauma specialists who are not directly related to the treatment of OP. The major part in the treatment of postmenopausal OP is occupied by well-known brands of combination therapy with calcium and vitamin D, whereas strontium ranelate was used only by 13.9% of respondents, alendronate - 11.1°%, zoledronic acid — 8.8%. Despite the identified high adherence to therapy, most patients treated previously believe that efficient and convenient for the administration drug for the treatment of OP does not exist (39.1% and 34.8% respectively). Average monthly costs for patients treated OP are 1700 (300, 2000) rubles, while the high cost of antiosteoporotic drugs is the most important cause of the irregular treatment and the most significant factor of poor quality medical care to patients with OP. Conclusion: OP is associated with more visits to medical facilities and long periods of disability; the quality of treatment of OP in MR needed to be improved.
ROL' tsITOKINOV V RAZVITII SERDEChNO-SOSUDISTyKh ZABOLEVANIY I OSTEOPOROZA
Authors: ERShOVA O. B. , BELOVA K. Yu. , NOVIKOVA I. V. , BARANOV A. A. , NAZAROVA A. V. , ROMANOVA M. A.
Published: January 2018

At thepresent time there is a great interest in médical researche devoted to investigation the role of cytokines (interleukins) in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (atherosclerosis, arterial hypertension, ischemic heart disease, etc.), and osteoporosis. The review provides data on the conducted research on the importance of cytokines in the event of these diseases.
EFFECT OF ZOLEDRONIC AND IBANDRONIC ACIDS ON BONE METABOLISM IN WOMEN WITH POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS
Authors: Yakushevskaya O V , Bordakova E V , Gavisova A A , Kuznetsov S Yu , Yureneva S V , Ivanets T Yu , Smetnik V P , Sukhikh G T
Published: January 2018

In open prospective study we determine the efficacy of zoledronic and ibandronic acids on bone metabolism markers and bone mineral density in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis. 225 women with postmenopausal osteoporosis treated with zoledronic acid in dose 5 mg, intravenously, once a year and 64 women treated ibandronic acid were followed up. The investigators assessed clinical and medical history data, evaluated the gynecological and somatic statuses, and made laboratory and instrumental studies: clinical, biochemical blood tests, general urinalysis, determination of serum bone metabolism markers (B-Crosslaps, osteocalcin), osteodensitometry and electrocardiography, therapist ’s examination if needed. Therapy with zoledronic acid 5 mg once a year and ibandronic acid 150 mg once a month was followed by a significant reduction in resorption markers (B-Crosslaps) just following one month. Formation markers decreased to a lesser degree, which was indicative of preserved positive bone remodeling balance during the therapy. Determination of biochemical markers of bone remodeling permits assessment of an individual patient response to antiresorbtive therapy just in the first month after infusion. Zoledronic acid or ibandronic acid therapy exerts a rapid and potent effect on bone metabolism, mainly by inhibiting the resorption processes.
LOW-TRAUMATIC FRACTURES IN PATIENTS WITH ENDOGENOUS HYPERCORTISOLISM. PREDICTORS AND RISK FACTORS, THE IMPACT ON QUALITY OF LIFE
Authors: Belaya Zh E , Dragunova N V , Rozhinskaya L Ya , Melnichenko G A , Dzeranova L K , Dedov I I
Published: January 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of low traumatic fractures, the factors influencing fractures in endogenous Cushing’s syndrome (CS) of various etiologies and their contributions into functional abilities and quality of life in patients with CS. Materials and methods: the retrospective data of patients, who had received treatment due to endogenous CS, (2001-2011), was evaluated. All enrolled patients underwent standard spinal radiographs in lateral positions of the vertebrae Th4-L4. Recent low traumatic non-vertebral fractures were recorded in the medical cards. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by DXA GE Lunar Prodigy. Serum samples on octeocalcin (OC), carboxyterminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen (CTx), latenight cortisol in serum were assayed by electrochemiluminescence (ECLIA). 24h urinary free cortisol (24hUFC) was measured by an immunochemiluminescence assay (extraction with diethyl ether). Functional assessment was performed using «chair rising», «up and go» and «tandem» tests. Universal pain assessment tool (verbal descriptor scale, Wong-Baker facial grimace scale, activity tolerance scale), EQ-5D and ECOS-16 questionnaires were given to patients and they self-reported their conditions. Results: Among 215 patients, 178 were females and 37 males, median age 35 (Q25-Q75 27-48); 88patients (40,9%) had low traumatic fractures, including vertebral fractures in 76 cases (in 60 cases multiple vertebral fractures) and non-vertebral fractures in 27 cases (17 patients had rib fractures, 3 -fractures of metatarsal bones, 2 fractures of radius, 2 fractures of tibia and fibula, 1 humerus, 1 breastbone; 1 hip fracture). Patients with fractures had higher 24hUFC, late-night cortisol in serum, lower OC, Total Hip BMD, but did not differ in age, BMI, CTx or etiology of CS. After applying the logistic regression analysis (adjusted for sex, age, BMI, BMD, OC), the main predictor of fractures was late-night serum cortisol level (p=0,001). Patients with late-night serum cortisol higher than 597 nmol/l were more likely to have low traumatic fractures (Odds ratio 2,86 (95%CI 1,55-5,28) p=0,001). Patients with fractures suffered from more pain and reported worse functional abilities. They had slightly worse results in «tandem» test, but did not differ in other functional tests, which assessed mainly muscle power. Conclusions: Patients with CS have very high risk of low traumatic fractures. The severity of hypercortisolemia is the best predictor of low traumatic fractures in patients with CS. Patients with fractures sufferedfrom more severe pain and because of this they restricted their daily activity even more than patients with CS without fractures. Consequently, patients with higher levels of late-night serum cortisol need earlier preventive treatment for osteoporosis.
FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR 23 AND KLOTHO PROTEIN IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF SECONDARY HYPERPARATHYROIDISM
Authors: Ilin A V , Arbuzova M I
Published: January 2018

One of the main problems in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a disturbance of calcium-phosphorus metabolism, especially in chronic hemodialysis. Besides classical endocrine axis parathyroid-kidney, in recent years was established the existence of a new endocrine axis the bone-kidney, which gives a better explanation of the calcium and phosphorus metabolism abnormalities, pathophysiology of secondary hyperparathyroidism in CKD. FGF23 is a circulating factor synthesized in osteocytes. It inhibits renal phosphate reabsorption and activity of 1-alphahydroxylase. Anti-aging Klotho protein is a potent co-factor of FGF23. This review presents the mechanisms of the interaction of these elements of the newly discovered axis in normal settings and secondary hyperparathyroidism.
NEW ASPECTS IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF GLUCOCORTICOID OSTEOPOROSIS
Authors: Baranova I A , Toroptsova N V
Published: January 2018

This review summarizes the main statements of the new clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in adult patients, published in 2013 under the auspices of the Russian Association on Osteoporosis (RAOP), the Russian Respiratory Society and the Russian Association of Rheumatologists.
IZUChENIE PLEYOTROPNYKh EFFEKTOV V-ADRENOBLOKATOROV I INGIBITOROV APF NA KOSTNUYu TKAN'
Authors: SKRIPNIKOVA I A , SOBChENKO K E , ABIROVA E S , NOVIKOV V E , POPKOVA T V , DYDYKINA I S , VYGODIN V A , SMIRNOV A V
Published: January 2018

Objective: To investigate the effect of treatment with betablockers (β-AB), inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACEI) on bone mineral density (BMD) depending on the risk factors (RF) of osteoporosis. Material and methods. In a retrospective study included 1129 outpatients (1093 women) aged over 40 years, who had the first DXA examination prior to start of the treatment for osteoporosis. Baseline characteristics of pts including data on osteoporosis risk factors (RF) and medication were obtained at the initial visit which had taken place between 2001 and 2011. BMD at the lumbar spine (LS), femoral neck (FN) and total hip (TH) were measured by DXA (Hologic Delphi W). 384 pts have been taking β-AB, ACEI and their combination not less than 6 months before the DXA examination ("users group”), 745 pts. have not been receiving any therapy ("non-users group”). Results. In the "users group” risk of reduction of BMD was lower than in the non-users [RR=1,6 (95 % CI 1.25-2,022) p<0.001], osteoporosis was diagnosed 1,3 times less frequently, and the BMD in LS, FN and TH were significantly higher than these parameters in "non-users group”. The highest BMD were noted in pts on combined therapy. The risk of BMD reduction not depends in both groups on RF such as age, postmenopause duration, presense of early or surgical menopause, low body weight, physical inactivity, previous fractures, fractures in relatives, rheumatoid arthritis, glucocorticoid use or alcohol abuse. In multivariate regression analysis after adjustment with these RF, BMD at all measured locations in users group maintained significantly higher than in non-users. There was no correlation between BMD and duration of β-AB and ACEI therapy. Conclusion Prolonged use of β-AB, ACEI in combination as well as monotherapy could has a protective effect on bone mass regardless of osteoporosis risk factors.
The Lived Experience of PLWHA and Partner’s Responses toward the Fulfillment of Sexual Needs
Authors: Supartha I Gede Nyoman Ardi , Waluyo Agung , Kariasa I Made
Published: January 2018

Background: Every single person including people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) have five basic needs; one of which is a physiological sexual need. Unfortunately, PLWHA face many difficulties in fulfilling their sexual needs due to the stigma and fear of infecting their partner.Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experience of PLWHA and partner’s responses toward the fulfillment of sexual needs.Methods: This study was a qualitative descriptive phenomenological research, which collected data through in-depth interviews from fourteen PLWHA in Paramacitta Spirit Foundation, Denpasar. The participants were recruited through snowball sampling, informed and gave consent for their voluntary participation. The data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method.Results: The study revealed five themes describing the sexual experiences of PLWHA, including: (1) the fulfillment of sexual need of PLWHA, (2) the roles of partner for PLWHA, (3) various perceived stimuli which could increase the sexual desire, (4) the perceived factors which could incapacitate the ability and quality of sexual desire, and (5) the efforts to increase sexual capability and quality.  Conclusion: Sex was an important need for PLWHA to meet. Despite having a virus, after undergoing anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment, PLWHA felt healthier, and thus they could meet their sexual need like a normal person in general.
Transformational and Transactional Leadership Styles of Nurse Managers and Job Satisfaction among Filipino Nurses: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lapeña Lucky Fitzgerald R , Tuppal Cyruz P. , Loo Bradley Goldie K. , Abe Kenji Hennessy C.
Published: January 2018

Background: Due to the paucity of literature in leadership styles and job satisfaction within the Philippine context, this descriptive correlational study among Filipino nurses (FNs) was piloted in a selected tertiary hospital in Manila.Purpose: This study utilized a descriptive correlational research design to describe aspects of a situation and explore relationships among leadership styles and job satisfaction, without seeking to establish causal connectionsMethods: Before the data collection, the researchers secured an administrative and ethical clearance from the executive assistant to the President thru the Officer-in-Charge of the Nursing Service Division of the hospital. There were 285 staff nurses, of which only 100 nurses were qualified to have at least one year of experience. Three sets of questionnaires were disseminated, and responses were treated analyzed using the descriptive statistics to describe the demographic and work profile, LS, and JS while Pearson R correlation was used to measure the relationship between LS and JS.Results: Using self-administered questionnaires, FNs rated their level of satisfaction (M=3.37) from high to a moderate extent along with professional autonomy (M=3.91), work environment (M=3.81), work assignment (M=3.61), and benefits (M=2.71). Participants agreed that their nurse managers utilized either transformational or transactional leadership styles. Findings indicate that transformational (r=0.558, p<0.000) and transactional (r=0.528, p< 0.000) leadership styles of nurse managers were correlated to nurses’ job satisfaction.Conclusion: The finding explicates that FNs were satisfied in their professional autonomy, work environment, and work assignment but moderately satisfied in work benefits which were also apparent in the global literature. Furthermore, the results indicate that leadership styles are related to the overall job satisfaction of among nurses.
Specific horticulture therapy guidelines in the landscaping of Cluj-Napoca hospital facilities – improving mental and behavioural healthcare
Authors: Hitter Timea , Cantor Maria , Buta Erzsebet
Published: January 2018

In the beginning, nature was an irreplaceable environment for humans. The concept of horticulture therapy (HT) denotes the use of ornamental plants to improve people’s health based on the connection between landscape architecture principles, design elements, and guidelines in healthcare facility gardens. In HT, people can improve and maintain health; so, gardens must provide only beneficial effects for users (patient, family, staff), testing design elements, which can be a scroll direction in garden, point of interest, connection with nature. This paper presents a case study analysis of the current landscape architecture standpoint: one of the Cluj-Napoca clinics, where HT can improve patients’ well-being.
Assessment of nutrient content of tomato hybrids for processing
Authors: Ágoston János , Tóth-Horgosi Péter , Kiss Tímea , Tóthné Taskovics Zsuzsanna
Published: January 2018

We have tested the refraction of 6 cultivars of open-field tomatoes. In our work, we have tested the nutritional values of tomato cultivars harvested at different times. Our aim was to answer the question as to which cultivar fulfils the requirements for processing under given circumstances. During harvest time, we also measured the ratio of yellow and red pigments. The trial was conducted in Kecskemét, Hungary, on the trial field of NAIK ZÖKO, in open-field conditions. The refraction measurement was done on weighted tomato, which was then ground to juice and then measured on a tabletop refractometer. The 6 tested cultivars Brix% were measured at 5 different harvest dates, and then the average refraction of the harvest was analysed. The most suitable cultivar for processing was found to be Solerosso.
Effects of land-use changes on soil properties based on reambulated soil profiles
Authors: Balla Dániel , Mester Tamás , Márta László , Molnár Dávid , Barkóczi Norbert , Zichar Marianna , Botos Ágnes , Novák Tibor József
Published: January 2018

In our study, by investigating reambulated soil profiles from the Nagy-Sárrét region in Hungary, we attempt to determine the extent of changes which have occurred due to effects which impacted the landscape in terms of the soil chemistry properties of soil profiles exposed during the Kreybig soil survey more than 70 years ago. Based on the results, in the areas used as grassland, we observed a decrease in pH and an increase in the humus content of the topsoil. The increased CaCO3 following the chemical improvement of the soil which was used as cropland is still characteristic of the area. During the past decades, the investigated soils have been affected by significant changes with regard to water management, which have also modified the investigated parameters. We have classified the reambulated soil profiles among the Solonetz, Vertisol, and Gleysol reference groups based on the World Reference Base of Soil Resources (WRB) diagnostic system.
Historical gardens of the Banat region
Authors: Hegedűs Noémi Melitta
Published: January 2018

The aim of the article is the studying of a frequently seen phenomenon, which is the loss of value as far as some buildings and their surroundings are concerned, which, at the moment of their construction, held great historical and architectural value, but in time they have gradually lost their value due to political, social, and cultural changes. In the Banat region of the first half of the 19th century, we can remark the dominance of the neoclassical style. The parks of the Banat region, apart from their role of satisfying the visual aesthetic appearances, are very well adapted to the place. They are unique, but the pattern after which they were conceived is common, according to the fashion of the era in which they were created. The subject of the research develops around the historical gardens belonging to certain historical monuments. The aim of researching these landscape arrangements is the investigation of the present-day situation and their evolution that has led to their actual transformation.
Phenolic profiling and therapeutic potential of local flora of Azad Kashmir; In vitro enzyme inhibition and antioxidant
Authors: Raza Muhammad Asam , Danish Muhammad , Mushtaq Mahvish , Sumrra Sajjad Hussain , Saqib Zenab , Rehman Shafiq Ur
Published: January 2018

The current study supports the phytochemical screening, evaluation of antioxidant and enzyme inhibition potential and correlations between antioxidant activities and phenolics of Rumex dentatus (Family: Polygonaceae), Mentha spicata (Family: Lamiaceae), Withania somnifera (Family: Solanaceae), Nerium indicum (Family: Apocynaceae) and Artemisia scoparia (Family: Asteraceae). The herbal materials were extracted in ethanol (90%) and partitioned between several solvents based on polarities. Total phenols were determined with FC method and ranged 21.33 ± 1.53 - 355.67 ± 6.03 mg GAE/ mg of the extract. Antioxidant activities (DPPH, total iron reducing capacity, phosphomolybdate assay & FRAP) and enzyme inhibition potential (Protease, AChE & BChE) were performed by the standard protocols. The results showed that all extracts exhibited significant DPPH activity ranging from 12.67 ± 2.08 - 92.67 ± 1.53%. The extracts that were active in DPPH activity also potrayed marvelous FRAP, total iron reducing and phosphomolybdate values. Correlation studies of antioxidant activities and the content of phenolic compounds in plant materials exhibited positive correlation between them. The outcome of enzyme inhibition activity exhibited that about 80% of the fractions under surveillance plants intimated more than 50% inhibition. Isolation of bioactive compounds from these plants is in progress.
Chemical profile, antioxidant activity and cytotoxic effect of extract from leaves of Erythrochiton brasiliensis Nees & Mart. from different regions of Europe
Authors: Baj Tomasz , Kukula-Koch Wirginia , Świątek Łukasz , Zielińska-Pisklak Monika , Adamska-Szewczyk Aldona , Szymczyk Dawid , Rajtar Barbara , Polz-Dacewicz Małgorzata , Skalicka-Woźniak Krystyna
Published: January 2018

The total phenolic content (TPC), total tannin content (TTC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) as well as the antioxidant activity and the cytotoxic effect of the extract from leaves ofErythrochiton brasiliensisNees & Mart. (Rutaceae) were evaluated. Raw material was collected in different European botanical gardens. Statistical analysis revealed a clear grouping of populations according to their climatic zone. The average TPC, TTC and TFC in tested samples were 35.92 (± 7.11) mg GAE·g–1DW, 14.98 (± 4.08) mg PyE·g–1DW and 2.92 (± 0.76) mg QuE·g–1DW, respectively. The scavenged DPPH and Trolox equivalents determined by EPR spectroscopy were 1.23–4.14 and 0.50–1.44 mmol·g–1of dry extract, respectively. Thirteen compounds (derivatives of bezoic acid acid andtrans-cinnammic acid) were identified in the samples. The flavonoid vitexin was also present as the major component in three investigated samples. Thein vitrocytotoxicity test of the extract on Vero cells provided IC50and IC10values of 175.6 and 72.5 μg·mL–1, respectively. Incubation of samples with HHV-1 infected Vero cells had no effect on the occurrence of cytopathic effect.
Isometries of Riemannian and sub-Riemannian structures on three-dimensional Lie groups
Authors: Biggs Rory
Published: January 2018

We investigate the isometry groups of the left-invariant Riemannian and sub-Riemannian structures on simply connected three-dimensional Lie groups. More specifically, we determine the isometry group for each normalized structure and hence characterize for exactly which structures (and groups) the isotropy subgroup of the identity is contained in the group of automorphisms of the Lie group. It turns out (in both the Riemannian and sub-Riemannian cases) that for most structures any isometry is the composition of a left translation and a Lie group automorphism.
Changes in antioxidant enzyme activities in Pinus sylvestris and Larix decidua seedlings after Melolontha melolontha attack
Authors: Skwarek Monika , Patykowski Jacek , Witczak Adrian
Published: January 2018

Plants are constantly exposed to the influence of biotic and abiotic stress factors that significantly affect the induction of resistance responses. Biotic factors include bacteria, fungi and insects such as the common cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha) that harm many tree species, including pine and larch. The adult beetles damage needles, while the larvae (grubs) feed on roots. The aim of the experiment was to determine how plants cope with the damage caused by these insects. The activity of antioxidant enzymes such as peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined three and six weeks after the insect-induced damage and the results show that the peroxidase activity, as measured with guaiacol (GPOD), was higher in the damaged roots of larch. The POD activity measured with syringaldazine (SPOD) was slightly higher in damaged pine needles as well as pine roots. SOD activity was higher in the damaged roots of both species as compared to the needles. It is believed that changes in the activity of POD and SOD as well as the presence of another form of SOD in the roots of larch, indicate direct involvement of these enzymes in the plants’ response to damage caused by M. melolontha.
Occurrence of brambles (Rubus L.) in young forest plantations on the Kolbuszowa Plateau
Authors: Wolanin Mateusz Marian , Wolanin Magdalena Natalia , Oklejewicz Krzysztof
Published: January 2018

In forests of the Kolbuszowa Plateau, bramble thickets are common mainly in young forest plantations and clear-cut areas. 11 bramble species were found in 20 plantations visited during the field study. The most frequent bramble species in young forest plantations include: Rubus plicatus, R. nessensis, R. hirtus, R. idaeus, while less frequent are: R. gracilis, R. ambrosius and R. apricus. The largest patches of brambles were found in plantations established on sites of mixed pine-oak forest, subcontinental lime-oak-hornbeam forest and dried alder carrs. Rubus thickets in young forest plantations occur together with numerous species characteristic of communities classified into the following classes: Vaccinio-Piceetea, Querco-Fagetea, Epilobietea angustifolii, Molinio-Arrhenatheretea and Nardo-Callunetea. Brambles growing in young forest plantations can be roughly divided into three groups: I - species with thin, prostrate and rooting stems (R. hirtus, R. apricus, R. pedemontanus), which may significantly affect the growth of tree seedlings if bramble specimens or diaspores are present at the time of tree planting; II - species with strong, poorly branched and arcuate stems (R. plicatus, R. gracilis, R. ambrosius, R. glivicensis), whose negative effect on tree seedlings depends on the potential of a tree species to produce quickly a high and dense thicket thereby overshadowing the lower vegetation; III - species with erect and relatively sparsely growing stems (R. idaeus), which do not pose any threat to young forest plantations. Species with intermediate biological traits (e.g. R. nessensis) may have a negative impact on young plantations, as they generate large and dense bush, however, in most cases, their populations grow rather sparsely and do not hinder the development of tree seedlings.
Studies on the Physicochemical and Processing Properties of
Tremella fuciformis Powder
Authors: Zuo Shurong , Zhang Ran , Zhang Yakun , Liu Yong , Wang Junhui
Published: January 2018

Tremella fuciformis is edible and medicinal food since ancient times in China. In this article, the physicochemical and processing properties of Tremella fuciformis powder (TFS) and synergistic interaction with Lotus seed powder (LTS) in aqueous solution were investigated. The elemental compositions of TFS were 1.71 % N, 47.21 % O, 40.35 % C, 6.25 % H and 0.20 % S. Aspartic and Glutamic acids were the major amino acids in TFS for taken about 0.91 % and 1.12 %. TFS dispersion couldn’t form a gel structure at all selected concentrations until the ratio of TFS: LTS was 1:1 at a total concentration of 36 mg/mL. The network strength of TFS/LTS dispersions increased with the total powder concentrations increased during continuous heating from 25°C to 70°C. Gluten, amorphous and crystalline regions, and amorphous starch were observed in mixtures TFS/LTS compared with TFS. TFS/LTS had a more concavo-convex microstructure than TFS due to starch gelatinization in LTS.
Bifurcation Analysis and Chaos Control in a Second-Order Rational Difference Equation
Authors: Din Qamar , Elsadany A. A. , Ibrahim Samia
Published: January 2018

This work is related to dynamics of a second-order rational difference equation. We investigate the parametric conditions for local asymptotic stability of equilibria. Center manifold theorem and bifurcation theory are implemented to discuss the parametric conditions for existence and direction of period-doubling bifurcation and pitchfork bifurcation at trivial equilibrium point. Moreover, the parametric conditions for existence and direction of Neimark–Sacker bifurcation at positive steady state are investigated with the help of bifurcation theory. The chaos control in the system is discussed through implementation of OGY feedback control method. In particular, we stabilize the chaotic orbits at an unstable fixed point by using OGY chaotic control. Finally, numerical simulations are provided to illustrate theoretical results. The computation of the maximum Lyapunov exponents confirms the presence of chaotic behavior in the system.
Electrochemical Corrosion Characteristics of High Strength Low Alloy Domex 700 Steel After Mechanical Surface Treatment in Chloride Environment
Authors: Borko K. , Pastorek F. , Hadzima B.
Published: January 2018

Nowadays a large number of mechanical surface treatments of constructions materials is used in industry, mainly focusing on steel surface treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of mechanical surface pre-treatment (grinding and shot peening) on corrosion resistance of high strength low alloy Domex 700 steel. Suitable mechanical surface treatment can by used for surface homogenization (eg. grinding) or for improvement of mechanical, strength and fatigue properties (shot peening). 0,1M NaCl solution of ambient temperature was used as an environment for electrochemical tests. Evaluation of the mechanical surface treatment effect on corrosion resistance of Domex 700 steel surface was realized by electrochemical tests: potentiodynamic polarization tests (using Tafel analysis) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (using equivalent circuit). From the obtained results it is possible to conclude, that the process of mechanical surface treatment by shot peening at choosen conditions has negative effect on corrosion resistance of Domex 700 steel.
Analysis of resistance of T91 steel under load in liquid PbBi
Authors: Rozumová L. , Di Gabriele F. , Hojná A.
Published: January 2018

This paper describes behaviour of the ferritic-martensitic steel T91 after long-term exposure in liquid eutectic PbBi. Small specimens of the steel were pre-loaded according to the ISO Standard No. 7539-2 and subsequently exposed to PbBi. The experiment was carried out in a flowing and static liquid metal medium at 350°C. The experimental time was selected for the flowing environment at 1000 hours and for static environment at 2000 hours. After exposure, the specimens were analysed by use SEM and EDX. Surface changes of the specimens from different experimental conditions were compared and discussed. The initiation of the cracks wasn´t observed in the monitored expositions.
Radiation dose and cancer risk estimates in helical CT for pulmonary tuberculosis infections
Authors: Adeleye Bamise , Chetty Naven
Published: January 2018

The preference for computed tomography (CT) for the clinical assessment of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) infections has increased the concern about the potential risk of cancer in exposed patients. In this study, we investigated the correlation between cancer risk and radiation doses from different CT scanners, assuming an equivalent scan protocol. Radiation doses from three 16-slice units were estimated using the CT-Expo dosimetry software version 2.4 and standard CT scan protocol for patients with suspected PTB infections. The lifetime risk of cancer for each scanner was determined using the methodology outlined in the BEIR VII report. Organ doses were significantly different (P < 0.05) between the scanners. The calculated effective dose for scanner H2 is 34% and 37% higher than scanners H3 and H1 respectively. A high and statistically significant correlation was observed between estimated lifetime cancer risk for both male (r
2 = 0.943, P < 0.05) and female patients (r
2 = 0.989, P < 0.05). The risk variation between the scanners was slightly higher than 2% for all ages but was much smaller for specific ages for male and female patients (0.2% and 0.7%, respectively). These variations provide an indication that the use of a scanner optimizing protocol is imperative.
The social aspects of urinary incontinence of women
Authors: Klimaszewska Krystyna
Published: January 2018

Introduction. Urinary incontinence refers to men and women, no matter what age they are. Due to the anatomical structure and biological function of women, they suffer from urinary incontinence more often than men. This disorder occurs widely, affecting many women, mainly in the perimenopausal age, and it increases with age. Aim. Analysis of the problem of urinary incontinence among women on the base of not systematic review of the literature. Summary. In the literature, it is highlighted that urinary incontinence of women is linked between the quality of life and the onset of symptoms, including functioning limitations on daily basis. It is a serious health and social problem among women. Conservative treatment in early stage of urinary incontinence may be an effective form of therapy. There is a need to prevent and educate the society in terms of shaping appropriate attitudes and behavioral health, including conservative methods in the treatment of urinary incontinence.
Urinary incontinence as the socioeconomic problem
Authors: Klimaszewska Krystyna , Bartusek Mariola
Published: January 2018

Introduction. Urinary incontinence, meaning irrespective of will leakage of urine, is a serious health problem, and has the status of social disease basing on the epidemiological data concerning number of affected populations suffering from it Taking into consideration the chronic character of the disease and increasing social discomfort including social exclusion, the costs of treatment and rehabilitation should be lower so patients could improve the quality of their lives in other aspects. That is why it is important to deeply analyze the costs of urinary incontinence in terms of diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation. Aim. Costs analysis related to diagnostics and treatment of urinary incontinence incurred by patient, or co-financed/funded by the National Health Fund on the basis of the literature review. Summary. The few but regularly prepared reports show that there is a clear need for changes in the funding of services provided to patients with health needs. Both the social and economic aspects are important for each patient and should be deeply analysed by public funds decision makers. It would be much easier to take an action if the probability of complete cure was high.
Remote Sensing Observations of Thunderstorm Features in Latvia
Authors: Avotniece Zanita , Briede Agrita , Klavins Maris , Aniskevich Svetlana
Published: January 2018

Thunderstorms are the most hazardous meteorological phenomena in Latvia in the summer season, and the assessment of their characteristics is essential for the development of an effective national climate and weather prediction service. However, the complex nature of convective processes sets specific limitations to their observation, analysis and forecasting. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyse thunderstorm features associated with severe thunderstorms observed in weather radar and satellite data in Latvia over the period 2006–2015. The obtained results confirm the applicability of the selected thunderstorm features for thunderstorm nowcasting and analysis in Latvia. The most frequent features observed on days with thunderstorm were maximum radar reflectivities exceeding 50 dBZ and the occurrence of overshooting tops and tilted updrafts, while the occurrence of gravity waves, V-shaped storm structures and small ice particles have been found to be useful indicators of increased thunderstorm severity potential.
Modelling of air flow supply in a room at variable regime by using both K - E and spalart – allmaras turbulent model
Authors: Korbut Vadim , Voznyak Orest , Sukholova Iryna , Myroniuk Khrystyna
Published: January 2018

The abstract is to The article is devoted to the decision of actual task of air distribution efficiency increasing with the help of swirl and spread air jets to provide normative parameters of air in the production apartments. The mathematical model of air supply with swirl and spread air jets in that type of apartments is improved. It is shown that for reachin of air distribution maximal efficiency it is necessary to supply air by air jets, that intensively extinct before entering into a working area. Simulation of air flow performed with the help of CFD FLUENT (Ansys FLUENT). Сalculations of the equation by using one-parameter model of turbulence Spalart-Allmaras are presented. The graphical and the analytical dependences on the basis of the conducted experimental researches, which can be used in subsequent engineering calculations, are shown out. Dynamic parameters of air flow that is created due to swirl and spread air jets at their leakage at variable regime and creation of dynamic microclimate in a room has been determined. Results of experimental investigations of air supply into the room by air distribution device which creates swirl air jets for creation more intensive turbulization air flow in the room are presented. Obtained results of these investigations give possibility to realize engineer calculations of air distribution with swirl air jets. The results of theoretical researches of favourable influence of dynamic microclimate to the man are presented. When using dynamic microclimate, it’s possible to decrease conditioning and ventilation system expenses. Human organism reacts favourably on short lasting deviations from the rationed parameters of air environment.
Analysis of the systems of ventilation of residential houses of Ukraine and Estonia
Authors: Savchenko Olena , Zhelykh Vasyl , Voll Hendrik
Published: January 2018

The most common ventilation system in residential buildings in Ukraine is natural ventilation. In recent years, due to increased tightness of structures, an increase in the content of synthetic finishing materials in them, the quality of microclimate parameters deteriorated. One of the measures to improve the parameters of indoor air in residential buildings is the use of mechanical inflow and exhaust ventilation system. In this article the regulatory documents concerning the design of ventilation systems in Ukraine and Estonia and the requirements for air exchange in residential buildings are considered. It is established that the existing normative documents in Ukraine are analogous to European norms, which allow design the system of ventilation of residential buildings according to European standards. However, the basis for the design of ventilation systems in Ukraine is the national standards, in which mechanical ventilation, unfortunately, is provided only for the design of high-rise buildings. To maintain acceptable microclimate parameters in residential buildings, it is advisable for designers to apply the requirements for designing ventilation systems in accordance with European standards.
Influence of transit water flow rate on its dispensation and on inflow through nozzles in pressure pipeline under action of external pressure
Authors: Cherniuk V.V. , Riabenko O.A. , Ivaniv V.V.
Published: January 2018

The influence of transit flow rate of water upon operative of the equipped with nozzles pressure pipeline is experimentally investigated. External pressure, which varies in the range of 1465-2295 mm, acted upon the pipeline. The angle β between vectors of velocities of the stream in the pipeline and jets which branch off through nozzles were given the value: 0° ; 45° ; 90° ; 135° ; 180°. The diameter of the pipeline was of D=20.18 mm, the diameter of nozzles d=6.01 mm. The distances between the nozzles were 180 mm, and the number of them 11. The value of the transit flow rate at input into the pipeline varied from 4.05 to 130.20 cm3 / s. The increase in flow rate of the transit flux Qtr
caused increase in non-uniformity of distribution of operating heads and increase in flow rate of water along the pipeline over the segment of its dispensation. On the segment of collecting of water, inverse tendency was observed. The number of nozzles through which water became to be dispensed increased with the increase in Qtr
.
Expansive cements for the manufacture of the concrete protective bandages
Authors: Yakymechko Yaroslav , Voloshynets Vladyslav
Published: January 2018

One of the promising directions of the use of expansive cements is making the protective bandages for the maintenance of pipelines. Bandages expansive application of the compositions of the pipeline reinforce the damaged area and reduce stress due to compressive stress in the cylindrical area. Such requirements are best suited for expansive compositions obtained from portland cement and modified quicklime. The article presents the results of expansive cements based on quick lime in order to implement protective bandages pipelines.
Dry and Wet Etching for Group III – Nitrides
Authors: Adesida I. , Youtsey C. , Ping A. T. , Khan F. , Romano L. T. , Bulman* G.
Published: January 2018

The group-III nitrides have become versatile semiconductors for short wavelength emitters, high temperature microwave transistors, photodetectors, and field emission tips. The processing of these materials is significant due to the unusually high bond energies that they possess. The dry and wet etching methods developed for these materials over the last few years are reviewed. High etch rates and highly anisotropic profiles obtained by inductively-coupled-plasma reactive ion etching are presented. Photoenhanced wet etching provides an alternative path to obtaining high etch rates without ion-induced damage. This method is shown to be suitable for device fabrication as well as for the estimation of dislocation densities in n-GaN. This has the potential of developing into a method for rapid evaluation of materials.
Mechanism for Radiative Recombination in In0.15Ga0.85N/GaN Multiple Quantum Well Structures
Authors: Monemar B , Bergman J P , Dalfors J , Pozina G , Sernelius B E , Holtz P O , Amano H , Akasaki I
Published: January 2018

We present a study of the radiative recombination in In0.15Ga0.85N/GaN multiple quantum well samples, where the conditions of growth of the InGaN quantum layers were varied. The piezoelectric field as well as short range potential fluctuations are screened via different mechanisms by donor electrons and excited electron-hole pairs. These effects account for a large part of the spectral shift with donor doping (an upward shift of the photoluminescence (PL) peak up to 0.2 eV is observed for a Si donor density of 2 × 1018 cm−3 in the well), with excitation intensity and with delay time after pulsed excitation (also shifts up to 0.2 eV). It appears like 2-dimensional screening of short range potential fluctuations is needed to fully explain the data. We suggest that excitons as well as shallow donors are at least partly impact ionized by electrons in the rather strong lateral potential fluctuations.
Nitridation of GaAs (001)-2×4 Surface Studied by Auger-Electron Spectroscopy
Authors: Aksenov Igor , Nakada Yoshinobu , Okumura Hajime
Published: January 2018

Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) was used to investigate the processes taking place during the initial stages of nitridation of GaAs (001) surface. The analysis of the AES results combined with that of RHEED show that the processes taking place during nitridation greatly differ depending on the nitridation temperature. At low temperatures (≤ 200°C) nitridation is hindered by kinetic restrictions on atomic migration, whereas at high temperatures (≥ 500°C) the process of nitridation takes place simultaneously with the etching of the surface. However, for intermediate temperatures (300°C ∼ 400°C) the results indicate that a complete monolayer of N atoms may be formed on the substrate during the initial stage of nitridation. The post-nitridation annealing of the samples nitrided at the intermediate temperatures results in the formation of a crystalline GaN layer, the line shape of the AES signals from which is identical to that for a GaN reference sample.
Epitaxial Growth and Structural Characterization of Single Crystalline ZnGeN2
Authors: Zhu L.D. , Maruska P.H. , Norris P.E. , Yip P.W. , Bouthillette L.O.
Published: January 2018

A new nitride semiconductor, single crystalline ZnGeN2 has been successfully grown by MOCVD for the first time. The epitaxial ZnGeN2 is found to be of hexagonal wurtzite lattice without ordering of the zinc and germanium atoms in the pseudomorphic Group III sublattice. Lattice constants of the ZnGeN2 are a = 3.186 ± 0.007 A, c = 5.174 ± 0.012 A, which gives c/a = 1.624.
Structural Study of GaN(As,P) Layers Grown on (0001) GaN by Gas Source Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Seong Tae-Yeon , Bae In-Tae , Zhao Y. , Tu C.W.
Published: January 2018

Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and transmission electron diffraction (TED) examination has been performed to investigate microstructural properties of gas source molecular beam epitaxial GaN(As,P) layers grown on (0001) GaN/sapphire at temperatures in the range 500 – 760 °C. As for the GaNAs, we report the observation of ordering with a space group P3m1 in the layer grown at 730 °C. The layers grown at temperatures below 600 °C are polycrystalline, whist the 730°C GaNAs layer has epitaxial relation to the GaN substrate. It is also shown that the GaNAs layers experience a structural change from a zinc-blende phase to a wurtzite phase, as the growth temperature increases. As for the GaNP, it is shown that the layers grown at temperatures ≤ 600 °C experience phase separation resulting in a mixture of GaN-rich and GaP-rich GaNP with zinc-blende structure. However, the layers grown at temperatures ≥ 730 °C are found to be binary zinc-blende GaN(P) single crystalline materials. The layers grown at temperatures ≥ 730 °C consist of two types of micro-domains, i.e., GaN(P)I and GaN(P)II; the former having twin relation to the latter.
GaN Growth by Remote Plasma MOCVD: Chemistry and Kinetics by Real Time Ellipsometry
Authors: Losurdo M. , Capezzuto P. , Bruno G.
Published: January 2018

Cubic and hexagonal GaN layers have been grown on GaAs (001) and α-Al2O3 (0001) substrates, respectively, by remote plasma metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (RP-MOCVD). In situ spectroscopic ellipsometry is used to monitor in real time the chemistry and kinetics of the GaN growth. The subtrate/GaN interface formation is highlighted and the effect of the substrate plasma nitridation on the initial growth stage is discussed.
Characterization of Be-Implanted GaN Annealed at High Temperatures
Authors: Ronning C. , Linthicum K.J. , Carlson E.P , Hartlieb P.J. , Thomson D.B. , Gehrke T. , Davis R.F.
Published: January 2018

Single crystalline (0001) gallium nitride layers were implanted with beryllium and subsequently annealed within the range of 300-1100 °C for 10-60 minutes under a flux of atomic nitrogen obtained using a rf plasma source. The nitrogen flux protected the GaN surface from decomposition in vacuum at high temperatures. SIMS measurements revealed that no long range diffusion of the implanted Be occurred at 900 or 1100 °C. XRD spectra showed defect-related peaks in the as-implanted samples; these peaks disappeared upon annealing at 900 °C and higher for 10 minutes. Photoluminescence (PL) easurements showed one new line at 3.35 eV which provided strong evidence for the presence of optically active Be acceptors.