bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetics, thermodynamics and mechanisms of phosphate sorption onto bottle gourd biomass modified by (3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride
Authors: Marković-Nikolić Dragana Z , Cakić Milorad D , Petković Goran , Nikolić Goran S
Published: July 2019

The sorption kinetics and thermodynamic parameters of phosphate removal from aqueous solution using quaternary ammonium–modified bottle gourd biomass as a sorbent were studied in a batch reactor. The cationic sorbent, containing trimethylammonium and hydroxypropyl groups, was obtained through the chemical reactions of the lignocellulosic Lagenaria vulgaris shell with (3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl)trimethylammonium chloride. Experimental data of phosphate sorption from aqueous solutions of different initial concentrations (5–140 mg P L−1) have been analysed by reaction kinetics and diffusion models. The characteristic rate constants calculated by linear and non-linear regression analyses of the experimental results are presented. The phosphate sorption reaches equilibrium in 20–30 min, depending on the initial phosphate concentration. The maximum sorption capacity of quaternary ammonium–modified bottle gourd (QABG) sorbent was 18 mg P g−1 at 20 oC. The sorption system is best described by a non-linear equation of the pseudo first-order model ( R2 > 0.996). The Weber–Morris model indicated that the sorption process took place in three steps, whereby the intra-particle diffusion is not the only rate-controlling step. In addition, the effect of temperature (20 oC–50 oC) on sorption kinetics was also investigated. The various thermodynamic parameters suggest that phosphate sorption is favoured and is an exothermic process. The activation energy and the sticking probability confirmed that anion exchange is the dominant mechanism. These results provide valuable information for the potential use of agricultural residues in the treatment of wastewaters.
Fatigue crack detection under the vibration condition based on ultrasonic guided waves
Authors: Zhu Yanping , Li Fucai , Bao Wenjie
Published: July 2019

Ultrasonic guided wave is an encouraging tool in structural health monitoring for civil, mechanical, ship, and aerospace devices. Most of heavy devices required a long-time running during the service, and the structure of these devices is under the vibration condition due to their inherent properties and working condition. This article mainly researches fatigue crack detection in vibration condition caused by operation using ultrasonic guided waves, aiming to study the application of ultrasonic guided waves in the field of structure dynamics. The detection method based on the difference index and the sequence curve of difference index between different states of crack is proposed to detect fatigue crack in vibration condition. The experiments are carried out on the fatigue testing platform and the vibration test-bed to investigate the relationship between opening states of fatigue crack and the difference index value of ultrasonic guided waves. In order to reduce the influence of loads applied by the fatigue testing platform on ultrasonic guided waves propagation, the initial experiment is first carried out to select the range of applied loads which have minimal influence on wave propagation. The results show that loads from 0 to 24 MPa have minimal effect on ultrasonic guided waves, and the difference index values of intact beam and cracked beam are in different orders of magnitude. Therefore, the method based on difference index value and sequence of difference index is credible to detect fatigue crack for structure in vibration condition.
Outcomes of Double-Mobility Prosthesis in Trapeziometacarpal Joint Arthritis With a Minimal 3 Years of Follow-Up: An Advantage for Implant Stability
Authors: Tchurukdichian Alain , Gerenton Brice , Moris Vivien , See Leslie-Ann , Stivala Alessio , Guillier David
Published: July 2019

Background: New generation of total trapeziometacarpal joint prosthesis using double mobility concept has been used for several years. The aim of this study was to evaluate the dislocation rate with this implant after a minimal 3 years of follow-up. Methods: From September 2013 to August 2015, 200 trapeziometacarpal prostheses were implanted in 179 patients. Clinico-radiological follow-up was performed with an average of 48.2 months (36-60 months). Survival rate and dislocation rate were analyzed. Loosening of the implants and other intercurrent events were noticed. Results: Visual analog scale, Quick-DASH, strengths and range of motion improved significantly. We report a survival rate of 97% with only 0.5% of dislocation of prosthesis at 48 months of follow-up. Intercurrent events rate were similar to the ones found in literature or other studies. Conclusions: After a minimal of 3 years of follow-up, prosthesis with double mobility seemed to bring better stability in implant for thumb prosthetic replacement.
Principal selection for Qatar’s government schools: Policy makers’, principals’ and teachers’ perspectives
Authors: Romanowski Michael H , Sadiq Hissa , Abu-Tineh Abdullah M , Ndoye Abdou , Aql Mofed
Published: July 2019

Research indicates that principals are critical in school reform since the implementation of policies and practices is to a large extent determined by the role that principals play in educational change. This study examines the principal selection process used in Qatar for the government schools and identifies knowledge and skills necessary for effective principals from the perspectives of policy makers, principals and teachers working in these schools. Qualitative interviews were held with three policy makers, 21 principals and 82 teachers in focus groups. Findings provide insight into the principal selection process and demonstrate that principals should develop their decision-making skills, should advance as instructional leaders and, since government schools are very diverse, principals must be able to manage issues of nationality, culture and equality. Recommendations are offered to improve the principal selection process for principals working in Qatar or other countries in the Gulf Region.
Excitation of the precessing vortex core by active flow control to suppress thermoacoustic instabilities in swirl flames
Authors: Lückoff Finn , Oberleithner Kilian
Published: July 2019

In this study, we apply periodic flow excitation of the precessing vortex core at the centerbody of a swirl-stabilized combustor to investigate the impact of the precessing vortex core on flame shape, flame dynamics, and especially thermoacoustic instabilities. The current control scheme is based on results from linear stability theory that determine the precessing vortex core as a global hydrodynamic instability with its maximum receptivity to open-loop actuation located near the center of the combustor inlet. The control concept is first validated at isothermal conditions. This is of utmost importance for the proceeding studies that focus on the exclusive impact of the precessing vortex core on the combustion dynamics. Subsequently, the control is applied to reacting conditions considering lean premixed turbulent swirl flames. Considering thermoacoustically stable flames first, it is shown that the actuation locks onto the precessing vortex core when it is naturally present in the flame, which allows the precessing vortex core frequency to be controlled. Moreover, the control allows the precessing vortex core to be excited in conditions where it is naturally suppressed by the flame, which yields a very effective possibility to control the precessing vortex core amplitude. The control is then applied to thermoacoustically unstable conditions. Considering perfectly premixed flames first, it is shown that the precessing vortex core actuation has only a minor effect on the thermoacoustic oscillation amplitude. However, we observe a continuous increase of the thermoacoustic frequency with increasing precessing vortex core amplitude due to an upstream displacement of the mean flame and resulting reduction of the convective time delay. Considering partially premixed flames, the precessing vortex core actuation shows a dramatic reduction of the thermoacoustic oscillation amplitude. In consideration of the perfectly premixed cases, we suspect that this is caused by the precessing vortex core-enhanced mixing of equivalence ratio fluctuations at the flame root and due to a reduction of time delays due to mean flame displacement.
Suicidal and self-harm presentations to Emergency Departments: The challenges of identification through diagnostic codes and presenting complaints
Authors: Sveticic Jerneja , Stapelberg Nicholas CJ , Turner Kathryn
Published: July 2019

Background:

The accuracy of data on suicide-related presentations to Emergency Departments (EDs) has implications for the provision of care and policy development, yet research on its validity is scarce.

Objective:

To test the reliability of allocation of ICD-10 codes assigned to suicide and self-related presentations to EDs in Queensland, Australia.

Method:

All presentations due to suicide attempts, non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicidal ideation between 1 July 2017 and 31 December 2017 were reviewed. The number of presentations identified through relevant ICD-10-AM codes and presenting complaints in the Emergency Department Information System were compared to those identified through an application of an evolutionary algorithm and medical record review (gold standard).

Results:

A total of 2540 relevant presentations were identified through the gold standard methodology. Great heterogeneity of ICD-10-AM codes and presenting complaints was observed for suicide attempts (40 diagnostic codes and 27 presenting complaints), NSSI (27 and 16, respectively) and suicidal ideation (38 and 34, respectively). Relevant ICD codes applied as primary or secondary diagnosis had very low sensitivity in detecting cases of suicide attempts (18.7%), NSSI (38.5%) and suicidal ideation (42.3%). A combination of ICD-10-AM code and a relevant presenting complaint increased specificity, however substantially reduced specificity and positive predictive values for all types of presentations. ED data showed bias in detecting higher percentages of suicide attempts by Indigenous persons (10.1% vs. 6.9%) or by cutting (28.1% vs. 10.3%), and NSSI by female presenters (76.4% vs. 67.4%).

Conclusion:

Suicidal and self-harm presentations are grossly under-enumerated in ED datasets and should be used with caution until a more standardised approach to their formulation and recording is implemented.
Chemical Constituents and Their Activities From the Seeds of Ormosia hosiei
Authors: Xu Huiyou , Qiu Yatie , Chen Jingxin , Shi Yan , Zhang Xiaoqin , Song Qiang , Huang Mingqing , Wu Zujian , Ni Lin
Published: July 2019

A new cytisine-like alkaloid, hosimonoal (1), with a fused monoterpene group, and 6 known compounds (2-6) were isolated from the seeds of Ormosia hosiei Hemsl. et Wils. The structure of the new compound was confirmed by high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HRESIMS), 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and electronic circular dichroism, and the others by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and comparison with the literature data. In addition, compounds 1, 2, 3, and 6 showed moderate cytotoxic effects against A2780, A-549, HepG2, and MCF-7 cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 5.7 to 36.5 μM.
Interplay Between Autophagy and Apoptosis in Lycorine Hydrochloride-Induced Cytotoxicity of HCT116 Cells
Authors: Zhao Ganting , Wang Yanjing , Yang Changqing , Zhao Li , Guo Lili , Li Lingmin , Wei Zibai
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the antitumor effect of lycorine hydrochloride (LH) and discuss the correlation between LH-induced apoptosis and autophagy in the human colorectal cancer cell line HCT116. Here the results by the Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays showed that LH concentration-dependently decreased cell viability and colony formation in HCT116 cells, suggesting inhibition of cell proliferation by LH. By flow cytometry, LH was found to increase apoptotic rate in HCT116 cells. Mechanistically, Western blot results revealed that LH increased the expression of the protein of Bax and Caspase-3, and decreased Bcl-2 proteins expression. Moreover, the reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis also showed that LH increased the expression of Beclin-1 and LC3B-II/LC3B-I ratio, indicating that autophagy was induced by LH. LH induced autophagy via downregulating phospho-mammalian target of rapamycin and upregulating phospho-AMPK (5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase). Furthermore, to understand the role of LH-induced autophagy and its association with apoptosis, cells were analyzed after Beclin-1 small interfering RNA transfection. The results indicated that the proapoptotic ability of LH was increased by inhibition of autophagy. In conclusion, the present investigation suggested that LH induced apoptosis and autophagy in HCT116 cells via the mitochondrial and AMPK/mTOR pathways. The suppression of autophagy promoted LH-induced apoptosis by modulating Beclin-1 and Bcl-2.
Crossing Lines in the Twitter Debate on Catalonia’s Independence
Authors: Balcells Joan , Padró-Solanet Albert
Published: July 2019

The effect of social media as a potential sphere for public deliberation still remains unclear. For some analysts, social media can create a vibrant space for political discussion, whereas others believe they do not provide the right conditions for meaningful interaction and could even have negative effects on public opinion by, for instance, fostering communication within isolated enclaves. Focusing on the debate surrounding Catalonia’s secession, this article analyses the interaction on Twitter between the opposite sides of this divisive political issue. Carefully based on a nonbiased random sampling procedure, we describe Twitter conversations through network and content analyses, using both indicators of the structure of conversations and opinion diversity. Remarkably, we find that Twitter users cross lines of difference and interact with people holding opposing views. Through a regression analysis, we show that the level of reciprocity, understood as repeated interaction and measured by the depth of the conversation, is explained by heterogeneity and associated with a higher involvement of the pro-independence side. However, if heterogeneity is combined with extremism, the development of longer conversations is severely cut. Overall, this article points toward the actual use of social media as a space for cross-cutting communication and debate despite strong disagreement.
Creating an instrument for evaluating critical thinking apps for college students
Authors: Chen Teresa , Hsu Hui-Mei , Stamm Sheila Wright , Yeh Ronnie
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to identify salient features for a critical thinking app and create an instrument to facilitate the app evaluation and selection process. Two questions guided the study: (1) What distinguishes critical thinking instructional apps from others? and (2) What design principles are essential to develop a critical thinking instructional app? The study was conducted in two phases, including a synthesis of existing research in Phase I and development of an evaluation instrument in Phase II. Three lines of research (on critical thinking, educational apps design principles, and tools for the evaluation of educational apps) informed the development of the instrument, which included three evaluation categories (content, pedagogy, and design). A synthesis of research used to create the instrument is included herein along with the instrument design process, rationale for this design, recommendations for usage, its limitations, and implications for future practice and research. Findings will enable app users to more wisely select critical thinking apps specific to their needs and assist app developers with distinguishing the salient qualities required to design apps for critical thinking. The study accordingly contributes to both software evaluation and its development with findings beneficial to both app users and developers.
Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation for patients with catheter ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Kato Michitaka , Ogano Michio , Mori Yuji , Kochi Kaito , Morimoto Daisuke , Kito Kazuya , Green Fumi Nihei , Tsukamoto Toshiya , Kubo Akira , Takagi Hisato , Tanabe Jun
Published: July 2019

Aims

The efficacy and safety of cardiac rehabilitation for patients with persistent atrial fibrillation who restored sinus rhythm after catheter ablation remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of cardiac rehabilitation on exercise capacity, inflammatory status, cardiac function, and safety in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation who had catheter ablation.

Methods

In this randomized controlled study, 61 patients treated with catheter ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation (male, 80%; mean age, 66 ± 9 years) were analyzed. Thirty patients underwent cardiac rehabilitation (rehabilitation group), whereas the remaining 31 patients received usual care (usual care group). The rehabilitation group underwent endurance and resistance training with moderate intensity, at least three times per week for six months. Six-minute walk distance, muscle strength, serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, plasma pentraxin 3, left ventricular ejection fraction and atrial fibrillation recurrence were assessed at baseline and at six-month follow-up.

Results

In the rehabilitation group, significant increases in the six-minute walk distance, handgrip strength, leg strength and left ventricular ejection fraction and significant decreases in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and plasma pentraxin 3 concentrations were observed at six-month follow-up compared with baseline (all p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the usual care group. During the six-month follow-up period, the number of patients with atrial fibrillation recurrence was six (21.4%) in the rehabilitation group and eight (25.8%) in the usual care group (risk ratio, 0.83; 95% confidence interval, 0.33 to 2.10).

Conclusions

Cardiac rehabilitation improved exercise capacity without increasing the risk for atrial fibrillation recurrence. It may also be effective in managing systemic inflammatory status and systolic left ventricular function in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation treated with catheter ablation.
The Friends and Family Test: From card sorts to control charts
Authors: Skillen Jennifer D
Published: July 2019

There is evidence that both quantitative and qualitative data in the National Health Service have been underexploited. Although the quantitative data derived from the Friends and Family Test are well understood and reported, the qualitative data are not so easily analysed nor is it easy to use to make quality improvements. There are methods from other domains that can be used to improve both reporting and utilisation of data. This article will discuss the logical and conceptual issues of combining the two methods, which when used together can lead to a deeper understanding of patient feedback and facilitate quality improvement without requiring advanced skills, thus making it suitable for lay staff and patient groups to use. Card Sorts and control charts, which are separately well-established techniques of analysis, were used together to analyse data from the Friends and Family Test in a general practitioner surgery in a small rural town in England with a patient population of approximately 8000. The use of the methodology showed that the two techniques used together resulted in a more powerful method, which was both easy to use and faster than traditional methods such as discourse analysis, and was easily incorporated into quality improvement discussions. This methodology is easy to use and requires little or no knowledge of statistical analysis, which makes it an ideal way for lay people, such as Patient Participation Groups or administrative staff, to monitor and act upon patient feedback, relieving general practitioners of the burden of analysing patient feedback.
Cooperation Contracts Between Small and Major Scenic Spots in Peak Seasons
Authors: Yang Chenchen , Dong Junfeng , Hao Jingjing
Published: July 2019

This study discusses the cooperation model between the small and major scenic spots in peak seasons of tourism. First, we create a tourism supply chain that contains only one major and one small scenic spots to divert some tourists to a nearby scenic spot, reduce large scenic spot pressure, increase the benefits of small scenic spots, and promote the healthy development of the tourism supply chain. Second, we build two cooperation models between the major and the small scenic spots: the revenue-sharing model and the cost-sharing model. Based on a numerical analysis, we give a more clear comparison about the revenue changes and the overall efficiency changes of the tourism supply chain in these two models. Our results confirm that the cost-sharing model is an ideal cooperation model. In the cost-sharing model, the two parties’ revenues in the tourism supply chain are better than those in the revenue-sharing model, and the entire supply chain efficiency could be improved.
Impact of secondary care financial incentives on the quality of physical healthcare for people with psychosis: a longitudinal controlled study
Authors: Crawford Mike J. , Huddart Daniel , Craig Eleanor , Zalewska Krysia , Quirk Alan , Shiers David , Strathdee Geraldine , Cooper Stephen J.
Published: July 2019

Background

Concerns have repeatedly been expressed about the quality of physical healthcare that people with psychosis receive.

Aims

To examine whether the introduction of a financial incentive for secondary care services led to improvements in the quality of physical healthcare for people with psychosis.

Method

Longitudinal data were collected over an 8-year period on the quality of physical healthcare that people with psychosis received from 56 trusts in England before and after the introduction of the financial incentive. Control data were also collected from six health boards in Wales where a financial incentive was not introduced. We calculated the proportion of patients whose clinical records indicated that they had been screened for seven key aspects of physical health and whether they were offered interventions for problems identified during screening.

Results

Data from 17 947 people collected prior to (2011 and 2013) and following (2017) the introduction of the financial incentive in 2014 showed that the proportion of patients who received high-quality physical healthcare in England rose from 12.85% to 31.65% (difference 18.80, 95% CI 17.37–20.21). The proportion of patients who received high-quality physical healthcare in Wales during this period rose from 8.40% to 13.96% (difference 5.56, 95% CI 1.33–10.10).

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that financial incentives for secondary care mental health services are associated with marked improvements in the quality of care that patients receive. Further research is needed to examine their impact on aspects of care that are not incentivised.
Chronic Light Cycle Disruption Alters Central Insulin and Leptin Signaling as well as Metabolic Markers in Male Mice
Authors: Skinner Nathan J , Rizwan Mohammed Z , Grattan David R , Tups Alexander
Published: July 2019

Recent evidence suggests that the circadian timing system plays a role in energy and glucose homeostasis, and disruptions to this system are a risk factor for the development of metabolic disorders. We exposed animals to a constantly shifting lighting environment comprised of a 6-hour advance, occurring every 6 days, to chronically disrupt their circadian timing system. This treatment caused a gradual increase in body weight of 12 ± 2% after 12 phase shifts, compared with a 6 ± 1% increase in mice under control lighting conditions. Additionally, after the fifth phase shift, light cycle–disrupted (CD) animals showed a reversal in their diurnal pattern of energy homeostasis and locomotor activity, followed by a subsequent loss of this rhythm. To investigate potential molecular mechanisms mediating these metabolic alterations, we assessed central leptin and insulin sensitivity. We discovered that CD mice had a decrease in central leptin signaling, as indicated by a reduction in the number of phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 immunoreactive cells in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. Furthermore, CD animals exhibited a marked increase in fasting blood glucose (269.4 ± 21.1 mg/dL) compared with controls (108.8 ± 21.3 mg/dL). This dramatic increase in fasting glucose levels was not associated with an increase in insulin levels, suggesting impairments in pancreatic insulin release. Peripheral hyperglycemia was accompanied by central alterations in insulin signaling at the level of phospho Akt and insulin receptor substrate 1, suggesting that light cycle disruption alters central insulin signaling. These results provide mechanistic insights into the association between light cycle disruption and metabolic disease.
The effects of crizotinib in a transgenic Drosophila model expressing the human TPM4-ALK fusion gene or TPM4
Authors: Kim Yoo Jin , Cho A-Ri , Sul Hee Jung , Kim Bohyun , Kim A-Young , Kim Hyeong Su , Seo Jong Bok , Koh Youngho , Zang Dae Young
Published: July 2019

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion events lead to constitutive activation of the ALK kinase domain, thereby functioning as oncogenic drivers. These fusion proteins have been identified in numerous cancers. Crizotinib, a small molecule inhibitor of c-Met and ALK, is a Food and Drug Administration-approved drug with reported efficacy in the treatment of cancer. Tropomyosins (TPMs) are a family of actin filament-binding proteins. Altered TPM expression has been found in a variety of human tumors. Inhibitors of cancer-associated TPMs and actin-targeting compounds have been developed, but anti-actin agents have cardiac and respiratory muscle toxicities. In this study, we investigated the sensitivities of human TPM4 (hTPM4), human ALK (hALK), and their fusion gene (hTPM4-hALK) to crizotinib by measuring the lifespan of transgenic Drosophila. Flies overexpressing hTPM4-hALK, hTPM4 and hALK showed decreased lifespans compared with controls. Although crizotinib is an inhibitor of ALK, treatment with crizotinib significantly extended the lifespans of Drosophila expressing hTPM4 and hTPM4-hALK but had no effect on hALK-expressing flies. Autophosphorylation of Tyr1278 is necessary for full activation of the ALK domain. We confirmed that hTPM4-hALK was phosphorylated at Tyr1278 in a ligand-independent manner, and hTPM4-hALK-expressing flies treated with crizotinib showed a decreased level of Tyr1278 phosphorylation compared with untreated hTPM4-hALK-expressing flies, with a greater decrease induced by 1 µM compared with 200 nM crizotinib. Taken together, the results suggest that crizotinib is effective for treating ALK-driven cancer and might be a new therapeutic drug, without cardiac or respiratory muscle toxic effects, for TPM4-expressing cancers.
Single Crystal Growth of Two-Dimensional Cyano-Bridged Coordination Polymer of Co(H2O)2Ni(CN)4·4H2O Using Trisodium Citrate Dihydrate
Authors: Azhar Alowasheeir , Zakaria Mohamed Barakat , Kim Jeonghun , Na Jongbeom , Kaneti Yusuf Valentino , Fatehmulla Amanullah , Aldhafiri Abdullah M , Farooq W Aslam , Bando Yoshio , Yamauchi Yusuke , Lin Jianjian
Published: July 2019

Single crystal Co(H2O)2Ni(CN)4·4H2O has been successfully synthesized by a slow diffusion method using trisodium citrate dihydrate for controlling the nucleation rate and the crystal growth. The single crystal X-ray diffraction results show the obtained crystals with a two-dimensional orthorhombic unit cell, assembled from cationic Co ions and anionic [Ni(CN)4]2− units connected by bridging cyanide groups.
Clinical-radiomics nomograms for pre-operative differentiation of sacral chordoma and sacral giant cell tumor based on 3D computed tomography and multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Yin Ping , Mao Ning , Wang Sicong , Sun Chao , Hong Nan
Published: July 2019

Objective:

To develop and validate clinical-radiomics nomograms based on three-dimensional CT and multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) for pre-operative differentiation of sacral chordoma (SC) and sacral giant cell tumor (SGCT).

Methods:

A total of 83 SC and 54 SGCT patients diagnosed through surgical pathology were retrospectively analyzed. We built six models based on CT, CT enhancement (CTE), T  1 weighted, T  2 weighted, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and contrast-enhanced T  1 weighted features, two radiomics nomograms and two clinical-radiomics nomograms combined radiomics mixed features with clinical data. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and accuracy (ACC) analysis were used to assess the performance of the models.

Results:

SC and SGCT presented significant differences in terms of age, sex, and tumor location (tage = 9.00, χ2  sex = 10.86, χ2  location = 26.20; p < 0.01). For individual scan, the radiomics model based on diffusion-weighted imaging features yielded the highest AUC of 0.889 and ACC of 0.885, followed by CT (AUC = 0.857; ACC = 0.846) and CT enhancement (AUC = 0.833; ACC = 0.769). For the combined features, the radiomics model based on mixed CT features exhibited a better AUC of 0.942 and ACC of 0.880, whereas mixed MRI features achieved a lower performance than the individual scan. The clinical-radiomics nomogram based on combined CT features achieved the highest AUC of 0.948 and ACC of 0.920.

Conclusions:

The radiomics model based on CT and multiparametricMRI present a certain predictive value in distinguishing SC and SGCT, which can be used for auxiliary diagnosis before operation. The clinical-radiomics nomograms performed better than radiomics nomograms.

Advances in knowledge:

Clinical-radiomics nomograms based on CT and mpMRI features can be used for preoperative differentiation of SC and SGCT.
Impact of dual diagnosis in patients with schizophrenia and affective disorders during hospital treatment on the course of illness and outcomes of treatment – a preliminary report
Authors: Błachut Michał , Ścisło Piotr , Jarząb Magdalena , Zając Magdalena , Piegza Magdalena , Badura-Brzoza Karina , Gorczyca Piotr
Published: July 2019

Cel pracy

Porównanie przebiegu choroby i funkcjonowania, występowania chorób somatycznych pomiędzy pacjentami z podwójną diagnozą, uzależnionymi bez współistnienia choroby psychicznej i osób chorych na schizofrenię lub choroby afektywne. Zwrócenie uwagi na potrzeby i problemy osób z podwójną diagnozą i potrzebę dłuższych hospitalizacji tej grupy pacjentów.

Metoda

Zbadano 108 osób w trakcie leczenia w zamkniętym oddziale psychiatrycznym, oceniono występowanie chorób somatycznych, urazów, wypisów na własne żądanie ze szpitali, podejmowanie prób samobójczych, zachowań agresywnych. Poprzez wykorzystanie własnych ankiet porównano dane socjodemograficzne oraz dane o dotychczasowym przebiegu choroby i leczenia pomiędzy pacjentami z podwójną diagnozą (n=30), z chorobą psychiczną (n=41) i uzależnieniem od substancji psychoaktywnych (n=37).

Wyniki

W grupie PD chorzy częściej podejmowali próby samobójcze, w młodszym wieku rozpoczynali używanie substancji psychoaktywnych. W grupie PD istotnie więcej osób było przed zawarciem małżeństwa lub po rozwodzie. W grupach PD i chorych psychicznie (K) było istotnie więcej osób, którzy byli w ciągu życia hospitalizowani powyżej 180 dni. Nie wykazano istotnych statystycznie różnic między grupami porównując częstość występowania chorób somatycznych, urazów, wypadków, wypisów na żądanie ze szpitali, czy zachowań agresywnych.

Wnioski

Z powodu słabej współpracy, częstego przerywania leczenia, większego ryzyka samobójczego w grupie pacjentów z podwójną diagnozą, wymagają oni dłuższych hospitalizacji psychiatrycznych w celu ustabilizowania stanu psychicznego, regularnego leczenia farmakologicznego, zapewnienia wsparcia społecznego, motywacji i przygotowania do leczenia odwykowego. Konieczne jest podjęcie działań zmierzających do stworzenia standardów postępowania terapeutycznego oraz dostosowania finansowania do potrzeb tej grupy chorych leczonych w Polsce.
Electromyostimulation as an element supporting sports training
Authors: Kowza-Dzwonkowska Małgorzata
Published: July 2019

Purpose: The aim of the publication is to present the possibilities associated with the use of skeletal muscle electrostimulation as an element supporting sports training. The advantage of this form of training is the performance of specific work by select muscle, especially in less experienced players who can’t isolate a particular muscle during exercise. The electric impulse causes synchronous activation of the muscle contraction in the standard and reproducible conditions, resulting in a much higher level of muscle activity over time.Design / methodology / approach: The effect of muscle electrostimulation on muscle tissue and physiological changes, on the improvement of motor features and the EMS equation for sports training was discussed.Findings: EMS improves the jumping ability (Maffiuletti, Cometti et al. 2000), the maximum muscle strength has also increased (Maffiuletti, Bramanti et al. 2009). Short-term stimulation of low-frequency muscles dramatically shortens the time of getting a  contraction. After prolonged stimulation, this result is improved, but it is slower than in the initial phase (Heilmann and Pette 1979). A series of suitable treatments leads to the enlargement of the area of the muscle section, a significant increase in the maximum strength and increase in muscle activation (Gondin, Guette et al. 2005, Kästner, Braun et al. 2015). Recently, it has been shown that EMS regenerates skeletal muscle by reducing the oxidative status in satellite cells muscle hypertrophy and the formation of new myofibrils (Di Filippo, Mancinelli et al. 2017). EMS as a sports training is similar to 4-fold longer training with high intensity exercises (Kemmler, Teschler et al. 2016).Research and practical limitations / implications: Due to reports that EMS affects muscle regeneration, you can use this method as part of wellness during the journey, when other forms are not available or as a short-term training.Originality / value: In summary, a properly selected series of skeletal muscle electrostimulation may affect muscle strength, muscle mass, jumping, speed and endurance as well as changing the structure of muscle fibers.
Choice Network Revenue Management Based on New Tractable Approximations
Authors: Kunnumkal Sumit , Talluri Kalyan
Published: July 2019

The choice network revenue management model incorporates customer purchase behavior as probability of purchase as a function of the offered products and is appropriate for airline and hotel network revenue management, dynamic sales of bundles, and dynamic assortment optimization. The optimization problem is a stochastic dynamic program and is intractable. Consequently, a linear programming approximation called choice deterministic linear program (CDLP) is usually used to generate controls. Tighter approximations, such as affine and piecewise-linear relaxations, have been proposed, but it was not known if they can be solved efficiently even for simple models, such as the multinomial logit (MNL) model with a single segment. We first show that the affine relaxation (and, hence, the piecewise-linear relaxation) is NP-hard even for a single-segment MNL choice model. By analyzing the affine relaxation, we derive a new linear programming approximation that admits a compact representation, implying tractability, and prove that its value falls between the CDLP value and the affine relaxation value. This is the first tractable relaxation for the choice network revenue management problem that is provably tighter than CDLP. This approximation, in turn, leads to new policies that, in our numerical experiments, show very good promise: a 2% increase in revenue on average over CDLP and the values typically coming very close to the affine relaxation. We extend our analysis to obtain other tractable approximations that yield even tighter bounds. We also give extensions to the case with multiple customer segments with overlapping consideration sets in which choice by each segment is according to the MNL model.
CdS Loaded Activated Carbon: An Efficient, Solar Light Driven Photocatalyst for RhB Dye Degradation
Authors: Kande Sagar , Ghoshir Udhav , Khedkar Jayshree , Gambhire Anil
Published: July 2019

A series of novel photocatalyst with CdS loaded on activated carbon (xAC/CdS) were successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The activated carbon content was varied between 0-7 wt. %. The prepared photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with EDX, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, N2 adsorption-desorption analysis and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of as-synthesized photocatalysts was studied for RhB dye degradation under natural sunlight irradiation. XRD analysis assigned both cubic and hexagonal morphology for xAC/CdS photocatalysts. The UV-vis DRS studies showed that loading of CdS on activated carbon enhances its visible light absorption with decrease in band gap energy. The lowest photoinduced e/h pair recombination rate in 3wt% AC/CdS results in optimum photocatalytic activity as revealed by photoluminescence study. The enhancement in dye degradation ability (̴ 11 times) of prepared photocatalysts can be attributed to synergistic effect of CdS and activated carbon.
Synthesis and Biological Activity Studies of Methyl-5-(Hydroxymethyl)-2-Furan Carboxylate and Derivatives
Authors: Phutdhawong Weerachai , Inpang Siwaporn , Taechowisan Thongchai , Phutdhawong Waya S.
Published: July 2019

Methyl-5-(hydroxymethyl)-2-furan carboxylate and derivatives were prepared from furfuryl alcohol and their biological activities were studied for cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines HeLa, HepG2 and Vero, and Gram (+) and Gram (-) bacteria. The amine derivative, (5-(((2-(1H-indol-3-yl)ethyl)amino)methyl) furan-2-yl)methyl acetate, was found to have the most potent biological activity with IC50 62.37 µg/mL against the HeLa cell line and MIC 250 µg/mL against the photogenic bacteria.
Characterisation of Biochar Obtained from Organic Material and its Application for Removal of Ciprofloxacin
Authors: Arun Sija , Maharathi Payal
Published: July 2019

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic compound that is used for various health issues like headaches, nervousness, nausea, vomiting etc. Ciprofloxacin is the second generation of quinolones in the different categories of antibiotics. After using this antibiotic, some percentages of the compound are not metabolized in the body and is excreted along with the urine and excreta. This will reach the treatment plant and the conventional treatment method is not designed to treat these micropollutants, so it is released into the environment. The presence of ciprofloxacin is detected in surface water samples collected from different areas of the world. This study is conducted to find an effective adsorbent that can remove the ciprofloxacin from wastewater. Biochar produced from agricultural waste is highly rich in carbon and made from the process called pyrolysis. Pyrolysis of biomass is carried out under lower temperatures and low oxygen content. Biochar is used to remove antibiotic compounds, naphthalene, and heavy metals. Biochar is economical and does not have any adverse effects on the environment. Biochar can be prepared from different types of organic biodegradable waste. Since, the quantity of municipal solid waste reaching the landfill site is increasing day by day, converting the organic waste into biochar can reduce the amount of waste reaching the landfill site. In this study, biochar prepared from rice husk at 300°C is the best adsorbent to remove ciprofloxacin from aqueous solution. The adsorption of ciprofloxacin is studied for various conditions. The samples were analyzed in the UV-Vis spectrophotometer and it shows good removal efficiency.
Investigation of Water Quality Index of River Noyyal and Its Connected Ponds Coimbatore Tamilnadu India
Authors: Jeyaraj M. , Indhuleka A. , Arunpaul C.
Published: July 2019

This investigation deals with the determination of various physico-chemical and biological parameters of surface water quality of river Noyyal and its connected ponds at Coimbatore, India. Based on their significance, the sampling locations were selected. There are five sampling locations were selected like river Noyyal at sorce (S1), Perur Lake, (S2), Ukkadam Pond (S3), Singanallur Lake (S4) and Sulur Pond (S5), and samples were collected from each locations at river Noyyal basin in and around Coimbatore district. The surface water quality index determination is prerequisite and essential. In this present work, from different methods of water quality determination, the most commonly used index of National Sanitation Foundation water quality index (NSF-WQI) has been followed. The physico-chemical and biological parameters such as dissolved oxygen, faecal coliforms counts, pH, biochemical oxygen demand, phosphate, nitrates, turbidity, and total dissolved solids were investigated. Except in Noyyal river at source (S1) all the measured parameters are showed to be very high compared to limits suggested by WHO particularly during summer season and thereby it is not suitable for public use.
The plague of comedies: Praise and criticism of Spanish theatre in Oporto at the end of the seventeenth century
Authors: Sousa José Pedro
Published: July 2019

The inclusion of the Portuguese territory in the itinerary of Spanish theatre companies, at least from the late sixteenth century onwards, contributed towards shaping a truly Iberian theatrical landscape during the seventeenth century. The influence of the Spanish language and theatrical models on Portuguese playwrights, the creation of a playhouse in Lisbon that followed almost exactly the Spanish reference of the corral de comedias and the constant presence of Spanish actors in Portugal during this period support that idea of a common cultural history shared by Portugal and Spain. Most of what is known about this chapter of Iberian theatre history, particularly when it comes to the presence of Spanish theatre companies on the Portuguese stage, conveys the idea of an unquestioned and uncriticized acceptance of this phenomenon in Portugal. However, if such might be the case in Lisbon, a recently found corpus of documentation concerning the theatrical activity in Oporto at the end of the seventeenth century shows a completely different attitude towards Spanish theatre companies. The opposition of both religious and secular Oporto authorities against commercial (Spanish) theatre, which was even considered to be a plague, was particularly evident in two different episodes that took place in the final decade of the seventeenth century. The analysis of these incidents proves the existence, at least in Oporto, of a certain resistance against the dominant theatrical practices, which uncovers a new space of enquiry in Iberian theatre history and the cultural exchanges between Portugal and Spain during the Golden Age.
Towards an intertwined history of symbolism, modernism and the avant-garde in Portugal and Spain
Authors: Sáez Delgado Antonio
Published: July 2019

Iberian literatures provide a particularly attractive setting for comparative study within the period internationally known as modernism. Such analyses highlight the numerous ideological and aesthetic flows that crossed the borders of national literatures in the Peninsula during the period. From a perspective that uses the tools of polysystems theory as formulated by Itamar Even-Zohar, in conjunction with the theory of Entangled History, crossed by the heterogeneous continuum formula inherent to the spirit of a ‘tradition of rupture’, as stated by Octavio Paz, I offer an interpretation of the relations established among symbolism, modernism and the avant-garde in the Peninsula, as illustrated in the cases of Eugénio de Castro and Teixeira de Pascoaes, and with reference to the footprint that they left in Spanish literature.
Perfil del donante de sangre en las Unidades Móviles del Banco de Sangre y Tejidos de Aragón
Authors: Sánchez Guio Tania , Delgado Sevilla David , Delcheva Bistra , Barranco Obis Patricia
Published: July 2019

Objetivo: obtener un perfil detallado del donante de sangre que acude a un punto móvil de extracción de sangre en Aragón.Método: Se trata de un estudio transversal con periodo de recogida de datos entre septiembre y diciembre del año 2015 durante las jornadas de donación en los diferentes puntos de donación de sangre externos a las instalaciones del Banco de Sangre y Tejidos de Aragón. Las variables estudiadas principales son: edad, sexo, tipo de donante y ámbito de donación. El análisis de los datos se realizó a través de Microsoft Excel y SPSS v21.0.Resultados: Los resultados hallados muestran un total de 2255 donaciones, de las cuales, el 60% del total fueron realizadas por varones, el 88% del total fueron posibles gracias a la colaboración de donantes habituales, y el 63% del total se realizaron en el ámbito rural. Conclusiones: El perfil del donante que acude a un punto móvil de extracción de sangre es de un varón, donante habitual, con edad comprendida entre 41 y 50 años, cuya residencia se encuentra en el ámbito rural.
The Effect of Environmental Performance, Firm Size, and Profi tability on Environmental Disclosure
Authors: Pamungkas Afdil Galang , Stephanus Daniel Sugama
Published: July 2019

This study aims to explore and analyze (1) the effect of the implementation of forensic accounting on fraud prevention; (2) the effect of the implementation of forensic accounting on fraud detection; and (3) the effect of the implementation of investigative audit on fraud disclosure in regional fi nancial management. The research method used in this study is descriptive qualitative method that examines some information derived from informants through in-depth interview. The results of the research analysis show that there are some problems or weaknesses in the implementation of forensic accounting, such as uneven SPIP maturity level, employees of agencies that are resistant to FCP implementation, the implementation of SIMDA that is not maximal, the absence of EDP laboratories in the BPKP of East Nusa Tenggara, and discrepancies in budget estimates on the implementationof the probity audit. In addition, there are weaknesses in the implementation of investigative audits, where fraud disclosure in the BPKP is based solely on request.
Analysis of Variables that Affect Tax Avoidance in Banking Sector Companies in Southeast Asia
Authors: Prakosa Iqbal Bagus , Hudiwinarsih Gunasti
Published: July 2019

Tax is one of the largest revenues the state has and it is compulsory for both citizens and companies to pay to the state. The collected funds are used by the state to build state infrastructure and others. However, not all individuals or companies are willing to pay tax voluntarily. Some taxpayers even carry out tax avoidance. There are many factors that may affect tax avoidance practices, such as institutional ownership, gender diversity on board of directors, audit committee, and fi rm size. This study aims to determine the effect of institutional ownership, gender diversity on board of directors, audit committee and fi rm size on tax avoidance by using current effective tax rate approach and SPSS test tool version 22. The sample consists of 568 banking sector companies in Southeast Asia and they are listed on Orbis that publish fi nancial statements in English, gain profi t, and pay taxes in the research period. Based on the research results, it is found that institutional ownership has a signifi cant effect on tax avoidance. Likewise, audit committee and fi rm size also have a signifi cant effect on tax avoidance. However, gender diversity on board of directors has no signifi cant effect on tax avoidance.