bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of modern approaches to forming ecological responsibility of pharmacists for good disposal of medicine
Authors: Hala L. O.
Published: September 2019

Expansion of spectrum of the medical and pharmaceutical services leads to an annual increase in the use of medicines, and as a consequence of an increase in the amount of pharmaceutical waste. The pharmacy, in accordance with the requirements of Good Pharmacy Practice, should ensure the effective disposal of medicines that have become inadequate in the process of pharmacy production, storage or retail sale or not used by the population. In this regard, socially important to ensure the proper management of pharmaceutical waste at the pharmacy.
The aim of the work was the development of modern approaches to the formation of ecological responsibility of specialists for good disposal of medicines at the stage of providing pharmaceutical care to the population.
The objects of the study were the data of special literature and regulations on disposal of medicines in the countries of the European Union and in Ukraine. Used methods – analytical-comparative, systemic, logical, modeling and generalization.
Based on the analysis of the organization of the activities of pharmacies, as part of the general system of the disposal of pharmaceutical waste, including medicines, in different countries of the European Union found that most of them pharmacies – active participants in this process. Significant differences were found in the approaches to the collection and disposal of pharmaceutical waste in different countries. At the same time, these measures are most effectively implemented by pharmacies under the conditions of financial coverage by the pharmaceutical industry and wholesale pharmaceutical companies for the costs of preventing ecological impacts and conducting educational activities. As a result of systematization of the material, it is proposed to implement the draft National Standard of Good Pharmacy Practice «Participation of Pharmacists the Disposal of Medicines» as one of the ways of solving this problem.
An analysis of modern approaches to the management of pharmaceutical waste management systems in the countries of the European Union shows the active participation of pharmacies in the process. Particular importance in this case is given to conducting informational work to increase the ecological consciousness of the population, which will reduce the impact of pharmaceutical waste on the environment.
Research of medicinal products of the nsaid of the pharmaceutical market in Ukraine for the period 2014–2018
Authors: Iakovlieva L. V. , Titova A. A.
Published: September 2019

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are groups of different chemical structures of drugs (derivatives of acids) that are widely used in clinical practice. More than three million people in the world take NSAIDs every day.

The aim of the study – аnalysis of the range and target characteristics of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the Ukrainian pharmaceutical market during 2014–2018.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, presented on the pharmaceutical market of Ukraine for 2014–2017, were selected as research objects. The research used retail prices, according to the «Pharmstandard» system of the «Morion» company.

NSAIDs in Ukraine during 2014–2018 were represented from 302 to 419 TN based on 32 INN. Diclofenac was also represented by the largest number of trade names, due to its distinct efficacy, less toxicity among the most effective drugs and the low cost of domestic generic drugs. Fewer TN than Diclofenac but more than the bulk of NSAIDs in the market were presented by the following INNs – meloxicam, ibuprofen, nimesulide and a combination of glucosamine with chondroitin sulfate.

A large selection of NSAIDs has been identified in the pharmaceutical market of Ukraine. Imported Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are more represented. These drugs have a wide range of prices that allow you to optimize your treatment costs. The prices of NSAIDs for researched period had increase. The reason can be in conditions of political and socio-economic crisis in the country
The main optical characteristics of UV-spectra of 5-(adamantane-1-yl)-4R-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiones derivatives
Authors: Odyntsova V. M.
Published: September 2019

The development of pharmaceutical chemistry confronts molecular spectroscopy the problem of calculating the electronic states, assumptions and explanations of the various properties of complex organic compounds. In recent years, following the basic optical characteristics of the electronic absorption spectra: the wave number of maximum absorption – νmax (in cm-1), the half-width of the absorption bands of – ∆ν1/2 (cm-1), the integral intensity of the absorption band (in l/mol·cm2), the oscillator strength of the electronic transition – f, the matrix element of the transition of electrons – Mik. began widely used. These constants allow you to determine the chromophores in the investigated substances, to establish the probability and the resolution of the electrons’ transition.

Our goal was the calculation and study of the basic optical characteristics of the electronic absorption spectra of 5-(adamantane-1-yl)-4R-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione, namely 5-(adamantane-1-yl)-4-methyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione and 5-(adamantane-1-yl)-4-phenyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione derivatives.

When deciding about the purity of the compounds we used melting point, thin layer chromatography and the results of elemental analysis. UV spectra of the investigated compounds was measured with a spectrophotometer Specord 200-222U214 (Germany). Elemental analyzer GmbH (Germany) was used for carrying out the elemental analysis.

It is determined that the values of the half-width Δν½ and integrated intensity of the absorption bands (A), the oscillator strength (f) and matrix element of the transition (Mik) can be used as an important constants of 5-(adamantane-1-yl)-4R-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione derivatives for their identification and establishing a deep connection between spectra and structure of the molecule.

For the studied compounds is the most characteristic absorption band in the medium wave spectrum with high values of A and f, which indicate about the permitted and probable transitions of electrons which give rise to the observed maxima.

Based on the study of the basic optical characteristics of the electronic absorption spectra of 5-(adamantane-1-yl)-4R-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione derivatives is found that chromatofor in the studied molecules is the structure of 1,2,4-triazole and substituents (adamantane, methyl and phenyl radicals).

A distinctive feature, namely 5-(adamantane-1-yl)-4-phenyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione 5-(adamantane-1-yl)-4-methyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-tion are the values A, f, Mik, which can be used to identify the investigated compounds.
Review of antibacterial and antifungal activity of 1,2,4-triazole derivatives
Authors: Samura Т. О.
Published: September 2019

Derivatives of 1,2,4-triazole is a very  perspective class of heterocyclic compounds which have high therapeutic effectiveness. The main direction of research on these derivatives are antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, soothing, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory and other activities.

The aim was to analyze literature data and generalize recent advances in the study of antimicrobial and antifungal action of 1,2,4-triazole derivatives which can help to create new biologically active substances of this type of activity. Bibliosemantical method, systems thinking and the results of our own research were used in the work.

The results of the literature review of antimicrobial and antifungal activity among new alkyl, aryl and heteryl derivatives of 1,2,4-triazole and among complex compounds, which contain 1,2,4-triazole are as ligands were analyzed and systematized. Some dependence of this type of activity on specialty of chemical structure of heterocyclic system derivatives was specified.

Perspective of purposeful synthesis of new derivatives of 1,2,4-triazole and products of their transformation as available object for studying biological activity and expanding knowledge about antimicrobial and antifungal activity of this class of heterocyclic compounds were shown with informational analysis. Topicality and practical importance of finding biologically active compounds and receiving biologically active substance by synthesis of new derivatives of 1,2,4-triazole with high antimicrobial activity in relation to gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria were demonstrated.
THEORETICAL JUSTIFICATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE SLAG MODE FOR TREATMENT OF WHEEL STEEL ON THE INSTALLATION OF A BUCKET-OVEN WITH A PURPOSE TO REDUCE THE SPECIFIC ELECTRIC ENERGY
Authors: Klimchik Y.V. , Gasik M.I. , Gorobets A.P.
Published: September 2019

Purpose. Management of the formation of oxide fluoride slag at the stage of out-furnace treatment of the wheel metal.
Methodology. Investigations of the energy technological regimes of out-of-furnace treatment of wheel steel were performed by analyzing the parameters of the basic metal processing technology at the ladle furnace.
Results. The optimal input mode of the fluorspar is established when the ladle slag is formed at the ladle furnace installation.
Scientific novelty. Analytical studies confirmed the absence in the structure of oxide fluoride slag structures containing fluorspar. Its role in the formation of ladle slag is defined as a depolymerization unit of spatial silica-oxygen groups and, as a consequence, an increase in the flowability of the melt while simultaneously increasing the oxidative potential of the slag.
Practical significance. The results of the study determine the limits of the CaF2 content in the ladle slag and allow a 30–35% reduction in the power consumption during slag formation at the ladle furnace.
Key words: Wheeled steel, electric arc furnace, metal intermediate, deoxidizing agents, alloying, slag-forming materials, fluorspar, ladle-furnace installation, energy saving.
The original way to get lime
Authors: Klimenko N.A. , Feldman A.I. , Feldman Yu.A. , Bobukh A.A.
Published: September 2019

Purpose. Development of a cost-effective method for the production of branded metallurgical lime.
Metodology. Analysis of technical solutions known in engineering in the field of lime production technology, as well as a generalization of the experimental studies obtained.
Findings. An efficient method for the production of metallurgical lime with a low consumption ratio with low energy consumption and reduction of harmful emissions has been developed and introduced into production.
Practical value. Developed and implemented in the production method of lime can be implemented in the foundry industry and will reduce the cost of products, reduce harmful emissions, especially in the conditions of micro-metallurgical production
Key words: energy consumption, harmful emissions, vertical annular gap, lined shells, electric heaters, counter thermal flows, expenditure ratio, branded metallurgical lime.
Optimal Design of Steel Curved Roof Frames by Enhanced Vibrating Particles System Algorithm
Authors: Kaveh Ali , Hoseini Vaez Seyed Rohollah , Hosseini Pedram , Bakhtyari Mohsen
Published: September 2019

The paper presents an optimal design of steel curved roof frames with its roof being part of a circular arc. The elements of frames are tapered I-section members. In the objective function for optimization, two factors affecting the weight of frames are considered simultaneously. First, the roof slope angle as an effective variable on the values of the structural loading and second, the cross-section of members that are considered as continuous and discrete variables, respectively. In the range of 3 to 70 degrees, the optimum range of roof slope angles for steel curved roof frames, as well as precise value of the best roof slope angle, will be reported. Enhanced Vibrating Particles System (EVPS) algorithm is utilized for the optimal design of steel curved roof frames with tapered members. The performance and efficiency of the EVPS algorithm is compared with six other recently developed optimization algorithms including VPS, GWO, HS, SSA, ECBO and GOA algorithms. The effectiveness and performance of EVPS algorithm is proven. Frames design are performed using ANSI/AISC 360-05 speciﬁcations which strength, displacement and stability constraints are imposed on the frames.
Outcome of laparoscopic appendicectomy for acute appendicitis in tertiary level hospitals
Authors: Biswas Proshanta Kumar , Hossain Syed Mozammel , Faruquzzaman Md
Published: September 2019

Background: In the very recent years, laparoscopic appendicectomy is widely accepted for the surgical procedure of acute appendicitis. Though the application of laparoscopic technique for appendicectomy is expanding very rapidly and now performed in almost all major cities and tertiary level hospitals in our country, but the reports are scanty and conflicting in our surgical practice.

Objective: This prospective clinical study was conducted to evaluate the outcome of laparoscopic appendicectomy in acute appendicitis in terms of complication, post surgical pain, conversion rate, negative appendicectomy and duration of hospital stay.

Methods: The study was carried out taking a total number of 93 patients of which 53 fulfilled the inclusion criteria admitted in BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka and 40 such patients from Khulna Medical College Hospital Khulna and a private clinic in Khulna City during the period from April, 2016 to August, 2018 with the patients of laparoscopic appendicectomy (LA) for acute appendicitis. Data was collected on history and clinical examination, investigation, histopathological examination and post operative complication.

Results: Among total 93 patients, majority of the patients were in age group of 20 to 30 years in both sexes and 65.6% were male and 34.4% were female. In case of 06(6.5%) patients negative appendicectomy were done and in 09(9.7%) patients conversion to open appendicectomy was required. Post operative complications like port site bleeding and infection were 4.3% and 2.1% respectively. Majority (87.10%) patients were discharged within 72 hours of LA.

Conclusion: This study reveals that laparoscopic appendicectomy is a minimally invasive and relatively safe procedure for acute appendicitis.

Bang Med J (Khulna) 2018; 51 : 12-15
Association News Vol.51(1-2)
Authors: - -
Published: September 2019

Abstract not available

Bang Med J (Khulna) 2018; 51 : 50
The Ghost of Tom Joad: Property, Guns, and the Law
Authors: Liebell Susan
Published: September 2019

As contemporary Americans grapple with divided politics, mistreatment of displaced people, and, in particular, the challenges posed by gun violence, The Grapes of Wrath -- one of the most widely read and burned books in the U.S. -- provides a vital political text. Contemporary gun narratives claim that armed citizens thwart tyrannical government and injustice. Yet Steinbeck tells a very different story about individual gun ownership. Despite almost universal ownership of guns among male farmers, guns are rendered impotent and irrelevant for protest. Instead, guns are the instruments of power that sustain corporate agriculture by intimidating workers, discouraging unionization, and enforcing laws that limit the movement, health, survival, and dignity of the dispossessed migrants. In the context of corporate agriculture and large-scale property ownership, privately and publicly deployed guns erode the legitimacy of the police, rule of law, and government -- triggering collective rebellion.
Authoritarian Constitutionalism
Authors: Pozas-Loyo Andrea , Rios-Figueroa Julio
Published: September 2019

What is “authoritarian constitutionalism”? How can we know it when we see it? In this paper, we provide a conceptual and analytical framework that addresses both ingredients of this intriguing concept: (1) a regime type commonly known for its tendency to abuse power, with (2) a centuries-old lineage of theories and practices seeking precisely to place limits on how it be used. After discussing different conceptualizations of “authoritarian constitutionalism”, we argue that it properly is a phenomenon that takes place under an authoritarian regime that exhibits institutional constraints on power. We thus distinguish authoritarian constitutionalism from “abusive constitutionalism” (that takes place under democracy) and from “constitutional authoritarianism” (authoritarian regimes where there are no institutional limits on power). We illustrate each one of these categories with examples from Latin American constitutional history.
How the Battles over Oil Sands Pipelines have Transformed Climate Politics
Authors: Hoberg George
Published: September 2019

This paper examines the origins, influence, and challenges of the climate movement’s shift to focus on blocking new fossil fuel infrastructure. It addresses four core research questions: (1) How effective has the strategy of place-based resistance to fossil fuel development been at promoting climate action and the reduction of global warming emissions? (2) Does the strategy risk the unintended consequence of feeding place-based resistance to the clean energy transformation? (3) Is there hope in more innovative processes of regulatory review and facility siting that can promote social acceptance of the rapid transition to the clean energy system but avoid the confrontational politics that have characterized fossil fuel resistance? (4) If innovative approaches have been demonstrated to reduce conflict, why are they so rarely used? This paper will use process tracing, government documents, and personal interviews to address these questions.
O desempenho em Matemática de alunos das escolas públicas do município de Maringá/PR, fundamentado no capital cultural de Bourdieu
Authors: Cousin Alexandra Oliveira Abdala , Andrade Doherty , Santos Valdirene Maria dos
Published: September 2019

O presente artigo teve como objetivo identificar alguns fatores determinantes para a qualidade do ensino em Matemática. Para isso foram utilizados os dados disponibilizados pelo Instituto Nacional de Estudos e Pesquisas Educacionais Anísio Teixeira (INEP) referentes à Prova Brasil aplicada em 2011. O trabalho está fundamentado na teoria do capital cultural de Bourdieu, que foi também utilizada para justificar a escolha das variáveis na pesquisa estatística. Para o tratamento desses dados, utilizamos o software Statistical Analysis System (SAS). Com nossa pesquisa pudemos inferir que existe associação positiva entre o capital cultural familiar do aluno e o desempenho do mesmo na disciplina de Matemática da Prova Brasil de 2011 para os alunos de 9º ano do Ensino Fundamental do Município de Maringá/PR.
O turismo cultural-religioso em Foz do Iguaçu: patrimônio cultural na região trinacional (Argentina, Brasil e Paraguai)
Authors: Manfrin Marta Eriana Klaus , Vanderlinde Tarcísio
Published: September 2019

Este trabalho procura descrever o patrimônio cultural sobre o cenário do turismo religioso em Foz do Iguaçu, região da tríplice fronteira. Com a diversidade cultural nesse local, nota-se o desenvolvimento do turismo religioso, que contribui para o aumento de divisas para o município. Diante disso, observa-se que o patrimônio cultural, tanto material quanto imaterial, demonstra as identidades de grupos nesse local, que são fluídas, mutáveis e variáveis, conforme o tempo e o lugar, propiciando ao público o conhecimento da memória, por meio do patrimônio cultural, que se efetua como uma tradição transmissível de comportamentos apreendidos em uma identidade coletiva e individual.
Escola Sem Partido e o ensino de história no tempo presente
Authors: Fontes Edilza Joana Oliveira , Rocha Davison Hugo Hugo
Published: September 2019

O objetivo do artigo é apresentar o PL n. 687 de 2015 e defender a tese de que o ensino de História é objeto de intervenção dos governos republicanos e como os professores de História, bem como os historiadores, incomodam quem está no poder. Neste sentido, queremos discutir os embates e os debates envolvendo o ensino de História em nosso tempo, partindo do pressuposto de que o conhecimento histórico escolar é uma leitura do passado produzida pela mediação do professor e com os alunos em sala de aula. Questionada pelo projeto em tramitação no Congresso Nacional, a profissão docente está colocada em jogo em nossa sociedade pós-moderna, cada vez mais midiatizada.
Arranjos entre religião, sexualidade e saúde mental: concepções e experiências de mulheres muçulmanas
Authors: Paiva Camila Motta , Barbosa Francirosy Campos
Published: September 2019

Fez-se, para a composição deste artigo, um recorte de duas etnografias conduzidas pelas autoras, ambas inseridas na temática mais ampla da saúde e bem-estar islâmicos. A primeira delas, já concluída, buscou compreender o ponto de vista islâmico acerca do sexo; a segunda, em andamento, tem como objetivo acessar o discurso hegemônico islâmico sobre questões de saúde mental, dialogando com mulheres muçulmanas sobre suas experiências de sofrimento. Neste artigo, busca-se destacar o fio condutor que nos faz entender uma etnografia como desdobramento da anterior; a saber: a emergência de diferentes concepções de saúde nas narrativas das mulheres muçulmanas brasileiras. O Islã é entendido como uma religião que preza pela saúde de homens e mulheres. A compreensão feita sobre a saúde é holística, pois engloba necessariamente os componentes físicos, mentais e espirituais. Para além da dimensão corporal, há a dimensão psíquica e sagrada da sexualidade; semelhantemente, não é possível ignorar a forte presença da dimensão espiritual ao se tratar da temática mental: ao falar de saúde no Islã, tudo se conecta.
Redes de Cura Bantu: agenciamentos terapêuticos no Centro Espírita São Sebastião
Authors: Almeida Arthur Henrique Nogueira , Santos Guaraci Maximiano dos , Rose Isabel Santana de
Published: September 2019

Este artigo trata dos agenciamentos de cura de um terreiro de matriz bantu, o Centro Espírita São Sebastião. Realizamos este trabalho no objetivo de apreender um pouco da dinâmica dessa tradição religiosa, enfocando a agência dos guias espirituais chamados de pretos velhos, considerados no contexto umbandista como os mentores e principais agentes de cura dos terreiros. As comunidades de terreiro são centros religiosos que prestam o acolhimento e cuidados aos que necessitam, sendo os pretos velhos agentes que ensejam essas habilidades, próprias à matriz religiosa bantu. Lançando mão de um sincrético conhecimento terapêutico e religioso, esses guias orientam, sabem ouvir e compreender as dores humanas, tratando o outro em sua condição, buscando a cura de maneira conjunta.
Entre cruzes e flechadas: processos de adoecimento e cura a partir das rezadeiras Pankararu
Authors: Lovo Arianne Rayis
Published: September 2019

Buscamos apresentar, de modo ainda incipiente, processos de adoecimento e cura a partir das rezadeiras Pankararu que habitam a cidade de São Paulo, no Real Parque, e a aldeia Brejo dos Padres, na Terra Indígena Pankararu, em Pernambuco. Noções como flechada, vento caído, entre outros, nos apontam para um entendimento da doença como um desequilíbrio social, associada a um elemento cósmico e ecológico, envolvendo a relação entre humanos e outras entidades, como mortos, encantados, inimigos. Nesse sentido, a pesquisa se insere nos debates acerca de processos de formação da pessoa, saúde e xamanismo, buscando compreender aspectos da corporalidade, noções de doença e cura.
Política psiquiátrica e agência religiosa: notas sobre caixas-pretas, o lúdico e a noção de in(ter)venção em saúde mental
Authors: Groisman Alberto
Published: September 2019

Este artigo reflete sobre complexidades e caixas-pretas como Bruno Latour elaborou, aqui para as políticas de saúde mental no Brasil. Caixas-pretas são ‘máquinas’ que não se consegue destrinchar, panaceia de complexidades. O que abordo é uma caixa-preta dos estudos, e como decorrência, da intervenção, em saúde mental. Discuto a (des)articulação deletéria entre atitude e conduta a partir de um olhar semantizado pelas noções de práxis psiquiátrica, práxis terapêutica e agência religiosa. O ponto de partida digamos explorativo da reflexão é considerar que há nesta (des)articulação um regime estabelecido por inconsistências empíricas e epistemológicas, condicionado pelo jogo que chamei in(ter)venção, partindo da contribuição de Roy Wagner, e para considerar que intervenção e invenção são dispositivos articulados e inseparáveis.
A Copernicus Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 Classification Framework for the 2020+ European Common Agricultural Policy: A Case Study in València (Spain)
Authors: Campos-Taberner Manuel , García-Haro Francisco Javier , Martínez Beatriz , Sánchez-Ruíz Sergio , Gilabert María Amparo
Published: September 2019

This paper proposes a methodology for deriving an agreement map between the Spanish Land Parcel Information System (LPIS), also known as SIGPAC, and a classification map obtained from multitemporal Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data. The study area comprises the province of València (Spain). The approach exploits predictions and class probabilities obtained from an ensemble method of decision trees (boosting trees). The overall accuracy reaches 91.18% when using only Sentinel-2 data and increases up to 93.96% when Sentinel-1 data are added in the training process. Blending both Setninel-1 and Sentinel-2 data causes a remarkable classification improvement ranging from 3.6 to 8.7 percentage points over shrubs, forest, and pasture with trees, which are the most confusing classes in the optical domain as demonstrated by a spectral separability analysis. The derived agreement map is built upon combining per pixel classifications, their probabilities, and the Spanish LPIS. This map can be exploited into the decision-making chain for subsidies payment to cope with the 2020+ European Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
An Evaluation of Systematic Versus Strategically-Placed Camera Traps for Monitoring Feral Cats in New Zealand
Authors: Nichols Margaret , Ross James , Glen Alistair S. , Paterson Adrian M.
Published: September 2019

We deploy camera traps to monitor feral cat (Felis catus) populations at two pastoral sites in Hawke’s Bay, North Island, New Zealand. At Site 1, cameras are deployed at pre-determined GPS points on a 500-m grid, and at Site 2, cameras are strategically deployed with a bias towards forest and forest margin habitat where possible. A portion of cameras are also deployed in open farmland habitat and mixed scrub. We then use the abundance-induced heterogeneity Royle–Nichols model to estimate mean animal abundance and detection probabilities for cameras in each habitat type. Model selection suggests that only cat abundance varies by habitat type. Mean cat abundance is highest at forest margin cameras for both deployment methods (3 cats [95% CI 1.9–4.5] Site 1, and 1.7 cats [95% CI 1.2–2.4] Site 2) but not substantially higher than in forest habitats (1.7 cats [95% CI 0.8–3.6] Site 1, and 1.5 cats [95% CI 1.1–2.0] Site 2). Model selection shows detection probabilities do not vary substantially by habitat (although they are also higher for cameras in forest margins and forest habitats) and are similar between sites (8.6% [95% CI 5.4–13.4] Site 1, and 8.3% [5.8–11.9] Site 2). Cat detections by camera traps are higher when placed in forests and forest margins; thus, strategic placement may be preferable when monitoring feral cats in a pastoral landscape.
Reply to Crawford et al.: Why Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Is an Ethical Solution for Stray Cat Management
Authors: Wolf Peter J. , Rand Jacquie , Swarbrick Helen , Spehar Daniel D. , Norris Jade
Published: September 2019

The recently published article, ‘A Case of Letting the Cat out of the Bag—Why Trap-Neuter-Return Is Not an Ethical Solution for Stray Cat (Felis catus) Management,’ by Crawford et al. warrants rebuttal. The case presented in the paper, opposing the initiation of TNR trials in Australia, ignores peer-reviewed evidence which substantiates the effectiveness of TNR at reducing unowned urban cat numbers. In addition, the paper’s authors offer a number of unrealistic recommendations, which are little more than a rebranding of the failed status quo. Urban stray cats have long been considered a problem across Australia. Current practice calls for the trapping and killing of thousands of healthy urban stray cats and kittens each year with no apparent effect on the total population. In contrast, the literature offers numerous examples, including two recent studies in Australia, of reductions in urban stray cat numbers where TNR has been implemented. TNR has also been associated with reduced feline intake and euthanasia at shelters, which improves both animal welfare and the well-being of shelter staff. A large-scale trial of TNR in an urban Australian context is scientifically justified and long overdue.
Effect of Fermented Medicinal Plants as Dietary Additives on Food Preference and Fecal Microbial Quality in Dogs
Authors: Park Da Hye , Kothari Damini , Niu Kai-Min , Han Sung Gu , Yoon Jee Eun , Lee Hong-Gu , Kim Soo-Ki
Published: September 2019

This research determined the antioxidant activities of medicinal plants fermented by Enterococcus faecium and their subsequent applications as dog food additives. Turmeric (5%, w/v), glasswort (2.5%, w/v), Ganghwa mugwort (2.5%, w/v), and their mixture (5%, w/v) were fermented by autochthonous E. faecium (1%, v/v) for 72 h. Bacterial cell counts and pH were monitored during fermentation. Total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, and intracellular superoxide scavenging activity in bovine mammary alveolar epithelial (MAC-T) cells were measured with the fermented and non-fermented samples. Only the antioxidant capacity of the mixture was increased after fermentation. However, intracellular superoxide level in MAC-T cells was significantly reduced after treatment with fermented plant samples (p < 0.001) as compared with that in non-fermented plants. Fermented plants were then sprayed at 1% (v/w) onto dog foods. TPC, TFC, ABTS radical scavenging activity, and DPPH radical scavenging activity of dog foods were significantly enhanced after the addition of fermented plants. Food preference testing was conducted using a two-pan method—control diet vs. four treatment diets—for 4 days for each additive diet, a total 16 days in 9 beagles. Feces were collected to enumerate bacterial counts. Preferences for glasswort and Ganghwa mugwort were higher than those of the control (p < 0.05). Furthermore, fecal microbiota enumeration displayed a higher number of beneficial microorganisms in treated groups. These results suggest that fermented plants with enhanced antioxidant abilities might be useful as potential additives for dog foods.
Regulation of Hydrogen Sulfide Metabolism by Nitric Oxide Inhibitors and the Quality of Peaches during Cold Storage
Authors: Geng Biao , Huang Dandan , Zhu Shuhua
Published: September 2019

Both nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) have been shown to have positive effects on the maintenance of fruit quality during storage; however, the mechanisms by which NO regulates the endogenous H2S metabolism remain unknown. In this experiment, peaches were immersed in solutions of NO, potassium 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (c-PTIO, as an NO scavenger), N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME, as an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-like activity), and sodium tungstate (as an inhibitor of nitrate reductase), and the resulting changes in the H2S metabolism of peaches were studied. The results showed that exogenous NO reduced the contents of endogenous H2S, Cys, and sulfite; decreased the activities of l-/d-cysteine desulfhydrase (l-/d-CD), O-acetylserine (thiol)lyase (OAS-TL), and sulfite reductase (SiR); and increased the activity of β-cyanoalanine synthase (β-CAS). Both c-PTIO and sodium tungstate had similar roles in increasing the H2S content by sustaining the activities of l-/d-CDs, OAS-TL, and SiR. l-NAME increased the H2S content, mainly by maintaining the d-CD activity. The results suggest that NO, c-PTIO, l-NAME, and sodium tungstate differently regulate the H2S metabolism of peaches during storage.
Investigation of the Broadband Microwave Absorption of Citric Acid Coated Fe3O4/PVDF Composite Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Adebayo Lawal Lanre , Soleimani Hassan , Yahya Noorhana , Abbas Zulkifly , Ridwan Ayinla Tobi , Wahaab Fatai Adisa
Published: September 2019

Magnetite (Fe3O4) have been thoroughly investigated as microwave absorbing material due to its excellent electromagnetic properties (permittivity and permeability) and favorable saturation magnetization. However, large density and impedance mismatch are some of the limiting factors that hinder its microwave absorption performance (MAP). Herein, Fe3O4 nanoparticles prepared by facile co-precipitation method have been coated with citric acid and embedded in a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix. The coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction spectrometer (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). COMSOL Multiphysics based on the finite element method was used to simulate the rectangular waveguide at X-band and Ku-band frequency range in three-dimensional geometry. The citric acid coated Fe3O4/PVDF composite with 40 wt.% filler loading displayed good microwave absorption ability over the studied frequency range (8.2–18 GHz). A minimum reflection loss of −47.3 dB occurs at 17.9 GHz with 2.5 mm absorber thickness. The composite of citric acid coated Fe3O4 and PVDF was thus verified as a potential absorptive material with improved MAP. These enhanced absorption coefficients can be ascribed to favorable impedance match and moderate attenuation.
On the Representativeness of UTOPIA Land Surface Model for Creating a Database of Surface Layer, Vegetation and Soil Variables in Piedmont Vineyards, Italy
Authors: Cassardo Claudio , Andreoli Valentina
Published: September 2019

The main aim of the paper is to show how, and how many, simulations carried out using the Land Surface Model UTOPIA (University of TOrino model of land Process Interaction with Atmosphere) are representative of the micro-meteorological conditions and exchange processes at the atmosphere/biosphere interface, with a particular focus on heat and hydrologic transfers, over an area of the Piemonte (Piedmont) region, NW Italy, which is characterized by the presence of many vineyards. Another equally important aim is to understand how much the quality of the simulation outputs was influenced by the input data, whose measurements are often unavailable for long periods over country areas at an hourly basis. Three types of forcing data were used: observations from an experimental campaign carried out during the 2008, 2009, and 2010 vegetative seasons in three vineyards, and values extracted from the freely available Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS, versions 2.0 and 2.1). Since GLDAS also contains the outputs of the simulations performed using the Land Surface Model NOAH, an additional intercomparison between the two models, UTOPIA and NOAH, both driven by the same GLDAS datasets, was performed. The intercomparisons were performed on the following micro-meteorological variables: net radiation, sensible and latent turbulent heat fluxes, and temperature and humidity of soil. The results of this study indicate that the methodology of employing land surface models driven by a gridded database to evaluate variables of micro-meteorological and agronomic interest in the absence of observations is suitable and gives satisfactory results, with uncertainties comparable to measurement errors, thus, allowing us to also evaluate some time trends. The comparison between GLDAS2.0 and GLDAS2.1 indicates that the latter generally produces simulation outputs more similar to the observations than the former, using both UTOPIA and NOAH models.
Design and Experimental Verification of a PZT Pump with Streamlined Flow Tubes
Authors: Tang Ming , Bao Qibo , Zhang Jianhui , Ning Qingshuang , Chen Chaobin , Huang Jun , Wu Chuanyu
Published: September 2019

In this paper, a streamlined flow tube valveless piezoelectric pump (SLFT PZT pump) is proposed to modify the single flow trend and improve the fluid flow stability. Firstly, the structural and working principle of the streamlined flow tube, which accounts for changing the flow trend and improving the flow stability, were analyzed. The flow resistance and flow rate equations were established. Secondly, the pressure and velocity fields of the tube were simulated. These simulated results were consistent with the theoretical results. Thirdly, the flow resistance of the flow tube was tested with pressure differences of 1000 Pa, 1200 Pa, 1400 Pa and 1600 Pa respectively. The trend of the result curves was consistent with the simulated results. The amplitude-frequency relationship and the flow-rate-frequency relationship were also tested, both result curves highly corelate. The maximum amplitude was 0.228 mm (10 Hz, 120 V), and the maximum flow rate was 17.01 mL/min (10 Hz, 100 V). Finally, the theoretical flow rate of the SLFT PZT pump was calculated at 100 V and 120 V. These results roughly fitted with the experimental results. The streamlined flow tube could change the internal flow trend that remarkably improved the flow stability. Therefore, it promoted the application of the valveless PZT pump in living cells, biomedical and polymer delivery.
Mechanical Properties of Tonalite Subjected to Combined Effects of Chemical Corrosion and Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Authors: Xu Chao , Chen Youliang , Wang Suran , Javadi Akbar , Du Xi , Azzam Rafig
Published: September 2019

This paper presents an investigation into the coupled effects of chemical corrosion (by Nitric acid solution) and freeze-thaw cycles on the physical and mechanical properties and damage deterioration of tonalite specimens. The experiments included the uniaxial compression test, three-point bending test, the Young’s modulus test, the X-ray diffraction test and the scanning electron microscope test. The damage condition of tonalite specimens was analyzed using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The experimental results reveal that chemical erosion has a significant influence on the propagation of micro cracks and accelerates the development of damage in the tonalite samples under monotonic loading. Due to cementation, no noticeable difference in uniaxial compressive strength was observed between the specimens subjected to combined effects of chemical corrosion and freeze-thaw cycles and those subjected to freeze-thaw cycles only. The amount of cementing materials in the chemically treated samples was found using SEM, which shows that chemical reactions promoted mechanical properties to some extent.
Deep-cARe: Projection-Based Home Care Augmented Reality System with Deep Learning for Elderly
Authors: Park Yoon Jung , Ro Hyocheol , Lee Nam Kyu , Han Tack-Don
Published: September 2019

Developing innovative and pervasive smart technologies that provide medical support and improve the welfare of the elderly has become increasingly important as populations age. Elderly people frequently experience incidents of discomfort in their daily lives, including the deterioration of cognitive and memory abilities. To provide auxiliary functions and ensure the safety of the elderly in daily living situations, we propose a projection-based augmented reality (PAR) system equipped with a deep-learning module. In this study, we propose three-dimensional space reconstruction of a pervasive PAR space for the elderly. In addition, we propose the application of a deep-learning module to lay the foundation for contextual awareness. Performance experiments were conducted for grafting the deep-learning framework (pose estimation, face recognition, and object detection) onto the PAR technology through the proposed hardware for verification of execution possibility, real-time execution, and applicability. The precision of the face pose is particularly high by pose estimation; it is used to determine an abnormal user state. For face recognition results of whole class, the average detection rate (DR) was 74.84% and the precision was 78.72%. However, for face occlusions, the average DR was 46.83%. It was confirmed that the face recognition can be performed properly if the face occlusion situation is not frequent. By object detection experiment results, the DR increased as the distance from the system decreased for a small object. For a large object, the miss rate increased when the distance between the object and the system decreased. Scenarios for supporting the elderly, who experience degradation in movement and cognitive functions, were designed and realized, constructed using the proposed platform. In addition, several user interfaces (UI) were implemented according to the scenarios regardless of distance between users and the proposed system. In this study, we developed a bidirectional PAR system that provides the relevant information by understanding the user environment and action intentions instead of a unidirectional PAR system for simple information provision. We present a discussion of the possibility of care systems for the elderly through the fusion of PAR and deep-learning frameworks.
Polymers and Polymer Nanocomposites for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Feldman Dorel
Published: September 2019

Synthetic polymers, biopolymers, and their nanocomposites are being studied, and some of them are already used in different medical areas. Among the synthetic ones that can be mentioned are polyolefins, fluorinated polymers, polyesters, silicones, and others. Biopolymers such as polysaccharides (chitosan, hyaluronic acid, starch, cellulose, alginates) and proteins (silk, fibroin) have also become widely used and investigated for applications in medicine. Besides synthetic polymers and biopolymers, their nanocomposites, which are hybrids formed by a macromolecular matrix and a nanofiller (mineral or organic), have attracted great attention in the last decades in medicine and in other fields due to their outstanding properties. This review covers studies done recently using the polymers, biopolymers, nanocomposites, polymer micelles, nanomicelles, polymer hydrogels, nanogels, polymersomes, and liposomes used in medicine as drugs or drug carriers for cancer therapy and underlines their responses to internal and external stimuli able to make them more active and efficient. They are able to replace conventional cancer drug carriers, with better results.
Discovery of Orexant and Anorexant Agents with Indazole Scaffold Endowed with Peripheral Antiedema Activity
Authors: Dimmito Marilisa P. , Stefanucci Azzurra , Pieretti Stefano , Minosi Paola , Dvorácskó Szabolcs , Tömböly Csaba , Zengin Gokhan , Mollica Adriano
Published: September 2019

The endocannabinoid system represents an integrated neuronal network involved in the control of several organisms’ functions, such as feeding behavior. A series of hybrids of 5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichloro-phenyl)-4-methyl-N-(piperidin-1-yl)-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide (mimonabant), a well-known inverse agonist of the type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1), once used as an antiobesity drug, and the N-(2S)-substitutes of 1-[(4-fluorophenyl)methyl]indazole-3-carboxamide with 1-amino-3-methyl-1-oxobutane (AB-Fubinaca), 1-amino-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutane (ADB-Fubinaca), and 3-methylbutanoate (AMB-Fubinaca), endowed with potent agonistic activity towards cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 were in solution as C-terminal amides, acids, methyl esters and N-methyl amides. These compounds have been studied by binding assays to cannabinoid receptors and by functional receptor assays, using rat brain membranes in vitro. The most active among them as an agonist, (S)-1-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-N-(3,3-dimethyl-1-(methylamino)-1-oxobutan-2-yl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (LONI11), and an antagonist, (S)-2-(1-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamido)-3-methylbutanoic acid (LONI4), were tested in vivo in mic, to evaluate their ability to stimulate or suppress feeding behavior after intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration. For a LONI11 formalin test and a tail flick test after an administration by the subcutaneous (s.c.) and intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) routes, respectively, were also carried out in vivo in mice to investigate the antinociceptive property at the central and peripheral levesl. We observed a significant orexant effect for LONI11 and an intense anorexant effect for (S)-methyl 2-(1-(2,4-dichlorobenzyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamido)-3,3-dimethylbutanoate (LONI2) and LONI4. In zymosan-induced edema and hyperalgesia, LONI11 reduced the percent of paw volume increase and paw latency after s.c. administration, also suggesting a possible peripheral anti-inflammatory activity.
The Immune Microenvironment of Breast Cancer Progression
Authors: Tower Helen , Ruppert Meagan , Britt Kara
Published: September 2019

Inflammation is now recognized as a hallmark of cancer. Genetic changes in the cancer cell are accepted as the match that lights the fire, whilst inflammation is seen as the fuel that feeds the fire. Once inside the tumour, the immune cells secrete cytokines that kick-start angiogenesis to ferry in much-needed oxygen and nutrients that encourage the growth of tumours. There is now irrefutable data demonstrating that the immune contexture of breast tumours can influence growth and metastasis. A higher immune cell count in invasive breast cancer predicts prognosis and response to chemotherapy. We are beginning now to define the specific innate and adaptive immune cells present in breast cancer and their role not just in the progression of invasive disease, but also in the development of pre-invasive lesions and their transition to malignant tumours. This review article focusses on the immune cells present in early stage breast cancer and their relationship with the immunoediting process involved in tumour advancement.
MALDI-MSI as a Complementary Diagnostic Tool in Cytopathology: A Pilot Study for the Characterization of Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Capitoli Giulia , Piga Isabella , Galimberti Stefania , Leni Davide , Pincelli Angela Ida , Garancini Mattia , Clerici Francesca , Mahajneh Allia , Brambilla Virginia , Smith Andrew , Magni Fulvio , Pagni Fabio
Published: September 2019

The present study applies for the first time as Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI) Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) on real thyroid Fine Needle Aspirations (FNAs) to test its possible complementary role in routine cytology in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules. The primary aim is to evaluate the potential employment of MALDI-MSI in cytopathology, using challenging samples such as needle washes. Firstly, we designed a statistical model based on the analysis of Regions of Interest (ROIs), according to the morphological triage performed by the pathologist. Successively, the capability of the model to predict the classification of the FNAs was validated in a different group of patients on ROI and pixel-by-pixel approach. Results are very promising and highlight the possibility to introduce MALDI-MSI as a complementary tool for the diagnostic characterization of thyroid nodules.