bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PEMBUATAN KARBON AKTIF DARI KULIT JERUK KEPROK (Citrus reticulata) UNTUK ADSORBSI PEWARNA REMAZOL BRILLIANT BLUE
Authors: Erprihana Asriningtyas Ajeng , Hartanto Dhoni
Published: July 2015

Limbah kulit jeruk keprok (Citrus reticulata) sering dijumpai di industri pembuatan berbagai macam minuman seperti jus, sirup, dan sari buah. Limbah kulit jeruk ini hanya akan dibuang begitu saja dengan jumlah banyak, dan pada akhirnya limbah ini akan mencemari lingkungan. Salah satu upaya peningkatan nilai ekonomis limbah kulit jeruk dapat dilakukan dengan mengolahnya menjadi karbon aktif. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan karbon aktif dari kulit jeruk keprok dengan aktivasi kimia, luas permukaan, serta mengetahui kemampuannya dalam mengadsorpsi zat warna Remazol Brilliant Blue. Kulit jeruk yang telah dibersihkan dari kotoran, dikeringkan menggunakan oven pada suhu 120oC selama 3 jam. Aktivator yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah H3PO4 dengan rasio massa aktivator : massa karbon 1:1. Aktivasi dilakukan pada temperatur 600oC selama 1 jam, kulit jeruk kemudian dicuci dengan aquades dan dikeringkan menggunakan oven pada suhu 150oC selama 6 jam. Setelah itu, dilakukan uji bilangan iodin terhadap sampel hasil penelitian. Adsorpsi zat warna Remazol Brilliant Blue oleh karbon aktif kulit jeruk dilakukan dengan variasi waktu kontak dan massa karbon aktif untuk mencari kondisi adsorpsi optimum. Kondisi optimum adsorpsi zat warna Remazol Brilliant Blue oleh karbon aktif pada kulit jeruk keprok pada waktu kontak 30 menit dengan massa karbon aktif 1 gram. Karbon aktif dari kulit jeruk keprok memiliki luas permukaan karbon aktif sebesar 529,17 mg/g berdasarkan daya serapnya terhadap larutan iodin.

 

Orange peel (Citrus reticulate) waste is often found in industrial manufacturing various kinds of beverages such as juice, syrup, fruit juice. Orange peel waste is just be thrown away with the lot number, and in the end of this waste will pollute the environment. One of the efforts to increase the economic value of orange peel waste by using the process which convert waste into activated carbon. This research aims are to produce activated carbon from orange peel with chemical activation, to determine the surface area, and its ability to adsorb Remazol Brilliant Blue dyes. Orangel peel that have washed, dried in oven at 120oC for 3 hours. H3PO4 is activating agent that used in this research with mass ratio activating agent : mass carbon 1:1. Activation is conduct at 600oC for 1 hour, orange peel then washed with bidistiled water, and dried in oven at 150oC for 6 hours. Iodine number was used to analysis the results. Adsorption of Remazol Brilliant Blue dyes by orange peel activated carbon conduct at variation contact time and mass activated carbon to find optimum condition. Optimum condition adsorption of Remazol Brilliant Blue dyes by orange peel actvated carbon is
reached at 30 minutes contact time with mass activated carbon 1 gram. Activated carbon from orange peel has surface area 529,17 m g/gr based aqueous iodine adsorption.
Levothyroxine dose adjustment in hypothyroid women achieving pregnancy through IVF
Authors: Busnelli Andrea , Vannucchi Guia , Paffoni Alessio , Faulisi Sonia , Fugazzola Laura , Fedele Luigi , Somigliana Edgardo
Published: July 2015

Objective

About one out of two women with primary hypothyroidism has to increase the dosage of exogenous levothyroxine (l-T4) during pregnancy. Considering the detrimental impact of IVF on thyroid function, it has been claimed but not demonstrated thatl-T4dose adjustment may be more significant in hypothyroid women who become pregnant after IVF.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Hypothyroid-treated women who achieved a live birth through IVF were reviewed. Women could be included if thyroid function was well compensated withl-T4before the IVF cycle (i.e., serum TSH <2.5 mIU/l and serum free T4within the normal range). Serum TSH and dose adjustment were evaluated at five time points during pregnancy. The trimester ranges for serum TSH considered as reference to adjustl-T4therapy were 0.1–2.5 mIU/l for the first trimester, 0.2–3.0 mIU/l for the second trimester, and 0.3–3.0 mIU/l for the third trimester.

Results

Thirty-eight women were selected. During the whole pregnancy 32 women (84%; 95% CI: 72–96%) required an increase in the dose ofl-T4. In most cases (n=28), this occured within the first 5–7 weeks of gestation (74%, 95% CI: 58–85%). At 5–7 weeks of gestation, the median (interquartile range) increase ofl-T4dose for the whole cohort was 26% (0–50%). At 30–32 weeks, it was 33% (14–68%). In order to identify predictive factors of dose adjustment, we compared women who did (n=28) and did not (n=10) adjustl-T4dosage at 5–7 weeks' gestation. Significant differences emerged for thyroid autoimmunity prevalence and for the distribution of hypothyroidism aetiology.

Conclusions

The vast majority of hypothyroid-treated women who achieve pregnancy through IVF need an increase in thel-T4dose during gestation. This requirement tends to occur very early during gestation.
cAMP signaling in cortisol-producing adrenal adenoma
Authors: Calebiro Davide , Di Dalmazi Guido , Bathon Kerstin , Ronchi Cristina L , Beuschlein Felix
Published: July 2015

The cAMP signaling pathway is one of the major players in the regulation of growth and hormonal secretion in adrenocortical cells. Although its role in the pathogenesis of adrenocortical hyperplasia associated with Cushing's syndrome has been clarified, a clear involvement of the cAMP signaling pathway and of one of its major downstream effectors, the protein kinase A (PKA), in sporadic adrenocortical adenomas remained elusive until recently. During the last year, a report by our group and three additional independent groups showed that somatic mutations ofPRKACA, the gene coding for the catalytic subunit α of PKA, are a common genetic alteration in patients with Cushing's syndrome due to adrenal adenomas, occurring in 35–65% of the patients.In vitrostudies revealed that those mutations are able to disrupt the association between catalytic and regulatory subunits of PKA, leading to a cAMP-independent activity of the enzyme. Despite somaticPRKACAmutations being a common finding in patients with clinically manifest Cushing's syndrome, the pathogenesis of adrenocortical adenomas associated with subclinical hypercortisolism seems to rely on a different molecular background. In this review, the role of cAMP/PKA signaling in the regulation of adrenocortical cell function and its alterations in cortisol-producing adrenocortical adenomas will be summarized, with particular focus on recent developments.
BclI glucocorticoid receptor polymorphism in relation to cardiovascular variables: the Hoorn and CODAM studies
Authors: van Moorsel Dirk , van Greevenbroek Marleen M J , Schaper Nicolaas C , Henry Ronald M A , Geelen Charlotte C , van Rossum Elisabeth F C , Nijpels Giel , 't Hart Leen M , Schalkwijk Casper G , van der Kallen Carla J H , Sauerwein Hans P , Dekker Jacqueline M , Stehouwer Coen D A , Havekes Bas
Published: July 2015

Objective

Excess glucocorticoids are known to cause hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The BclI glucocorticoid receptor (GR) polymorphism increases glucocorticoid sensitivity and is associated with adverse metabolic effects. Previous studies investigating cardiovascular implications have shown inconsistent results. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association of the BclI polymorphism with blood pressure, atherosclerosis, low-grade inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and prevalent CVD.

Design

Observational cohort study, combining two cohort studies designed to investigate genetic and metabolic determinants of CVD.

Methods

We genotyped 1228 individuals (aged 64.7 years±8.5) from the Cohort on Diabetes and Atherosclerosis Maastricht (CODAM) study and Hoorn study for the BclI polymorphism. We measured blood pressure, ankle–brachial index (ABI), and carotid intima–media thickness (cIMT). Low-grade inflammation and endothelial dysfunction scores were computed by averaging Z-scores of six low-grade inflammation markers and four endothelial dysfunction markers respectively. Prevalent CVD was assessed with questionnaires, hospital records, ECG, and ABI.

Results

Homozygous carriers (GG) had higher mean arterial pressure (103.8±12.4 mmHg vs 101.6±12.2 mmHg (mean±s.d.); P<0.05) compared with non-carriers (CC). Homozygous carriers had lower ABI compared with heterozygous carriers (CG) (1.08±0.13 vs 1.11±0.14; P<0.05). After adjustment for all covariates in the full model, the association with ABI was no longer significant. BclI was not associated with systolic blood pressure, cIMT, low-grade inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and prevalent CVD.

Conclusions

The BclI polymorphism of the GR gene may contribute to an unfavorable cardiovascular profile; however, the effects on cardiovascular variables appear to be limited and partly mediated by the metabolic phenotype exerted by BclI.
Multiple-Line Inference of Selection on Quantitative Traits
Authors: Riedel Nico , Khatri Bhavin S , Lässig Michael , Berg Johannes
Published: July 2015

Trait differences between species may be attributable to natural selection. However, quantifying the strength of evidence for selection acting on a particular trait is a difficult task. Here we develop a population genetics test for selection acting on a quantitative trait that is based on multiple-line crosses. We show that using multiple lines increases both the power and the scope of selection inferences. First, a test based on three or more lines detects selection with strongly increased statistical significance, and we show explicitly how the sensitivity of the test depends on the number of lines. Second, a multiple-line test can distinguish between different lineage-specific selection scenarios. Our analytical results are complemented by extensive numerical simulations. We then apply the multiple-line test to QTL data on floral character traits in plant species of the Mimulus genus and on photoperiodic traits in different maize strains, where we find a signature of lineage-specific selection not seen in two-line tests.
La persona adolescente y su experiencia durante la etapa intermedia
Authors: González Zúñiga Sophía , Quezada Ugalde Ana María
Published: July 2015

Introducción: La adolescencia es considerada una etapa de vulnerabilidad en la vida de todas las personas, cuya cobertura de atención dentro del sistema de salud de esta población es escasa, con un abordaje dirigido exclusivamente a las problemáticas, motivo por el  que requiere mayor especialización. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo presentar el diagnóstico situacional de un grupo de adolescentes en etapa intermedia con el fin de posteriormente elaborar un programa de Enfermería Pediátrica para la atención de la persona adolescente en etapa intermedia, en una institución de enseñanza media durante los años 2013 – 2014.Método: La metodología implementada  es de tipo cualitativo con un enfoque epistemológico constructivista;  el análisis de los datos se efectuó mediante la triangulación de la información recopilada.Resultados: Entre los principales hallazgos de la fase diagnóstica se obtuvo que los adolescentes priorizaron problemáticas como el fenómeno de las drogas y situaciones relacionadas con la sexualidad; además describen su experiencia a lo largo de esta etapa de la vida, los cambios acontecidos, y la interacción con pares y familia, información necesaria para que un profesional de enfermería pediátrica intervenga de manera adecuada.Conclusión: Se concluye que es fundamental establecer un primer contacto con la persona adolescente en función de identificar de forma conjunta sus necesidades y brindarles la oportunidad de proponer posibles respuestas. El continuo acercamiento favorece el desarrollo de la empatía con el fin de obtener mayor apertura del individuo frente  a los profesionales de enfermería como una figura de acompañamiento a lo largo de su adolescencia.
Validación de la prueba general para la evaluación del desarrollo para infantes y adolescentes entre los 6 y los 14 años de edad (EVADE)
Authors: Quezada Ugalde Ana María , Gónzalez Serrano Sunny , Solís Cordero Katherine , Zúñiga Baldi Carolina
Published: July 2015

Introducción. En este artículo se presenta los resultados obtenidos de la validación de la Prueba General para la Evaluación del Desarrollo para infantes y adolescentes (EVADE), acorde con el crecimiento, necesidades, intereses y desarrollo de la población costarricense en edades entre los 6 y 14 años.Metodología. La metodología fue de carácter cualitativo, transversal y exploratorio: se llevó a cabo un proceso de validación que incluyó la técnica de juicio de expertos de tipo agregados individuales. En la primera fase de análisis de resultados, se utilizó  la triangulación de la que se obtuvo como resultado el EVADE modificado. Posteriormente, se elaboró una prueba piloto con 300 infantes y adolescentes entre los 6 y 14 años de edad, de escuelas y colegios tanto públicos como privados del Área Metropolitana, San José, Costa Rica, para lo cual se empleó una guía de observación para recopilar los datos aportados en dicha prueba. En la segunda fase, con los resultados de la triangulación teórica, se estructuró una nueva versión del EVADE.Resultados. Hay escasez bibliográfica relacionada con pruebas de evaluación del desarrollo de la niñez intermedia y adolescencia; la técnica de juicio de expertos permitió confirmar la inconsistencia de algunos ítems del EVADE, por lo que fue necesario crear un instructivo y materiales estandarizados para la aplicación de la prueba.Conclusión. Esta investigación provee dos insumos fundamentales: un libro con el instructivo para la interpretación y aplicación del EVADE, y los materiales estandarizados para su implementación
Relación entre autoestima y felicidad desde la psicología positiva en estudiantes de enfermería intercultural
Authors: Núñez Ramírez Marco Alberto , González Quirarte Gloria Esthela , Realpozo Reyes Rosario Del Carmén
Published: July 2015

Introducción. Se observa contradicciones acerca de la relación entre la autoestima y la felicidad, dado que para algunos  existe y para otros no, e incluso, hay quienes sostienen que la autoestima influye sobre la felicidad. Dichas variables son elementales para el ejercicio de la enfermería, sin embargo, su estudio dentro de los entornos interculturales es poco.  El objetivo de la presente investigación es conocer la asociación entre la autoestima y la felicidad en estudiantes de enfermería intercultural desde la psicología positiva.Método. Se realizó una investigación cuantitativa, descriptiva, transversal y correlacional, con un diseño no experimental, con una muestra de 55 estudiantes de la licenciatura en enfermería intercultural. Se aplicó dos cuestionarios: la escala de autoestima de Rosenberg y la escala de felicidad de Lima.Resultados. Se obtuvo niveles altos de autoestima y felicidad. Luego, mediante la correlación de Pearson y la regresión jerárquica se encontró que la autoestima se asocia de manera negativa y positiva con ciertos factores de la felicidad, lo cual se repite en cuanto a su influencia. Conclusión. Dentro de la psicología positiva es posible asociar de manera relevante variables como autoestima y felicidad como fortalezas, más aún en el caso de estudiantes de enfermería intercultural, quienes buscan contribuir al desarrollo de los pueblos originarios, al aportar profesionales en enfermería con niveles favorables de autoestima y de la percepción del bienestar subjetivo para contrarrestar una herencia histórica de atraso. A partir de la psicología positiva es posible que dicho modelo educativo contribuya al enriquecimiento mutuo y el empoderamiento dentro del quehacer de la enfermería intercultural.
Factores que inciden en la calidad de vida de las personas adultas mayores
Authors: Granados Hernández Mabel , Muñoz Rojas Derby
Published: July 2015

Introducción. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar los resultados del proyecto de investigación No.421-B1-234  de la Escuela de Enfermería de la Universidad de Costa Rica, Práctica de enfermería basada en la evidencia para mejorar la calidad de vida de las personas adultas mayores, el cual pertenece al proyecto No. 421-B1-910 Programa para la Colaboración para la Investigación de Enfermería Basada en la Evidencia de Costa Rica. En este escrito se presenta una revisión teórica de los trabajos más importantes respecto de dicha temática, con el objetivo de aclarar qué factores y variables son los que inciden en tener una mayor calidad de vida en la actualidad en las personas adultas mayores.Método. La metodología utilizada es la que se recomienda para desarrollar la práctica clínica basada en la evidencia con sus respectivas etapas. En cuanto a los documentos, inicialmente se recuperó un total de 504 de diferentes bases de datos incluyendo PUBMED, EBSCO, LILACS, CINAHL, y COCHRANE, de los cuales únicamente 30 fueron retenidos ya que incluían revisiones de literatura, estudios primarios, y marcos conceptuales relevantes para la pregunta clínica. Finalmente, por su contenido, seis  se emplearon para el análisis y la lectura crítica por su estructura metodológica, y calidad, dado que fundamentan indirectamente la respuesta a la pregunta clínica que guió el presente estudio.Resultados.  Se evidencia que la musicoterapia puede tener un efecto positivo en la calidad de vida de las personas adultas mayores, la cual puede ser influida por factores individuales, sociales, culturales, y ambientales, el uso de dispositivos electrónicos, la conectividad social, la respuesta adaptativa y la interacción positiva con otras personas. Por último, las implicaciones para la investigación, práctica de enfermería, política, y conocimiento enfermero son discutidos de manera detallada.Conclusión. Existe necesidad de desarrollar más estudios sobre los factores que intervienen en la calidad de vida de las personas adultas mayores, a través del metaanálisis o de revisiones sistemáticas, que permitirían corregir el vacío de información en este campo.
A spatial multicriteria model for urban accessibility mapping
Authors: Rodrigues Daniel Souto , Ramos Rui António Rodrigues , Tobias Maisa Gama Sales
Published: July 2015

Accessibility is nowadays an important issue for the development of cities. It is seen as a priority in order to guarantee equal access to fundamental rights, to improve the quality of life of citizens and to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, mobility or ability, have equal access to all the resources and benefits cities have to offer. Consequently, factors closely related to the accessibility have gained a higher relevance for identifying and assessing the location of urban facilities. The main goal of the paper is to present an accessibility evaluation model applied in Santarém, in Brazil, a city located midway between the larger cities of Belem and Manaus. The research instruments, sampling method and data analysis proposed for mapping urban accessibility are described. Daily activities were used to identify and group key destinations. The model was implemented within a geographic information system and integrates the individual's perspective through the definition of each key destination weight, reflecting their significance for daily activities in the urban area. Accessibility to key destinations was mapped over 24 districts of the city of Santarém. The results of this model application can support city administration decision-making for new investments in order to improve urban quality of life.
Concentric bioprinting of alginate-based tubular constructs using multi-nozzle extrusion-based technique
Authors: Tan Edgar Y. S. , Yeong Wai Yee
Published: July 2015

Bioprinting is a layer-by-layer additive fabrication technique for making three-dimensional (3D) tissue and organ constructs using biological products. The capability to fabricate 3D tubular structure in free-form or vertical configuration is the first step towards the possibility of organ printing in three dimensions. In this study, alginate-based tubular structures of varying viscosity were printed vertically using multi-nozzle extrusion-based technique. Manufacturing challenges associated with the vertical printing configurations are also discussed here. We have also proposed measurable parameters to quantify the quality of printing for systematic investigation in bioprinting. This study lays a foundation for the successful fabrication of viable 3D tubular constructs.
A novel bioactive PEEK/HA composite with controlled 3D interconnected HA network
Authors: Vaezi Mohammad , Yang Shoufeng
Published: July 2015

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a high-performance thermoplastic biomaterial which is currently used in a variety of biomedical orthopaedic applications. It has comparable tensile and compressive strength to cortical bone with favourable biocompatibility. However, natural grade PEEK-OPTIMA has shown insufficient bioactivity and limited bone integration. Bioactive PEEK composites (e.g., PEEK/calcium phosphates or Bioglass) and porous PEEK have been used to improve bone-implant interface of PEEK-based devices, but the bioactive phase distribution or porosity control is poor. In this paper, a novel method is developed to fabricate a bioactive PEEK/hydroxyapatite (PEEK/HA) composite with a unique configuration in which the HA (bioactive phase) distribution is computer-controlled within a PEEK matrix. This novel process results in complete interconnectivity of the HA network within a composite material, representing a superior advantage over alternative forms of product. The technique combines extrusion freeforming, a type of additive manufacturing (AM), and compression moulding. Compression moulding parameters, including pressure, temperature, dwelling time, and loading method together with HA microstructure were optimized by experimentation for successful biocomposite production. PEEK/HA composites with a range of HA were produced using static pressure loading to minimise air entrapment within PEEK matrix. In addition, the technique can also be employed to produce porous PEEK structures with controlled pore size and distribution.
Molecularly imprinted polymers in electro analysis of proteins
Authors: Shumyantseva V.V. , Bulko T.V. , Baychorov I.Kh. , Archakov A.I.
Published: July 2015

In the review the main approaches to creation of recognition materials capable of competing with biological specific receptors, (polymeric analogs of antibodies or molecularly imprinted polymers, MIP) for the electro analysis of functionally significant proteins such as a myoglobin, troponin T, albumin, human ferritin, calmodulin are considered. The main types of monomers for MIP fabrication, and methods for MIP/protein interactions, such as a surface plasmon resonance (SPR), nanogravimetry with use of the quartz crystal resonator (QCM), spectral and electrochemical methods are discussed. Experimental data on electrochemical registration of a myoglobin using MIP/electrode are presented. For a development of electrochemical sensor systems based on MIPs, o-phenylenediamine (1,2-diaminobenzene was used as a monomer. It was shown that the imprinting factor Imax(MIP)/Imax(NIP), calculated as a myoglobin signal ratio when embedding in MIP to a myoglobin signal when embedding in the polymer received without molecular template (NIP) corresponds 2-4.
Allele polymorphism analysis in coagulation factors F2, F5 and folate metabolism gene MTHFR by using microchip-based multiplex real time PCR
Authors: Bogdanov K.V. , Nikitin M.M. , Slyadnev M.N.
Published: July 2015

Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping methods are widely used for the detection of hereditary thrombophilias caused by genetic defects in the coagulation system. The hereditary thrombophilias are frequently associated with higher incidences of point mutations in hemostasis (F2 20210G>A, F5 1691G>A) and folate metabolism (MTHFR 677C>Т, MTHFR 1298A>C) genes. Moreover, the combination of gene abnormalities in F2 or/and MTHFR with F5 Leiden mutation leads to increased risk of developing thrombosis. Thus, simultaneous detection of the multiple gene mutations in a sample has important clinical relevance. The microchip-based multiplex real time PCR for estimation of allele specific polymorphism in hemostatic and folate metabolism genes presented here has a high efficiency and may be used for laboratory diagnosis. The optimized protocol for estimation of 4 different types of genetic polymorphisms allowed PCR to be performed with minimal quantity of DNA template and PCR reagents including Taq polymerase and a short-term thermocycling.
Cytokines neuroinflammatory reaction to the action of homoaggregatic and liposomal forms of b-amyloid 1-40 in rats
Authors: Sokolik V.V. , Maltsev A.V.
Published: July 2015

An injection model of preclinical stages of Alzheimer's disease has been reproduced in rats. It was accompanied by the decrease in the latent period of conditioned reflex avoidance, increasing levels of endogenous b-amyloid peptide 1-40 and activation of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1b, TNF-a, IL-6, IL-10) in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and blood serum of experimental animals. We belive that changes identified at the biochemical level are prerequisite to modulate neuronal functions in rats induced by Ab40_Human administration. The toxic effect of exogenous b-amyloid 1-40 homoaggregates caused intense response of the cytokine system, while its liposomal form caused the soft information signal to the activation of innate immunity.
Role of mexidol (2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridine succinate) in the obtaining of stabilized magnetite nanoparticles for biomedical application
Authors: Vazhnichaya Ye.M. , Mokliak Ye.V. , Kurapov Yu.A. , Zabozlaev A.A.
Published: July 2015

Magnetite nanoparticles (NPs) are studied as agents for magnetic resonance imaging, hyperthermia of malignant tumors, targeted drug delivery as well as anti-anemic action. One of the main problems of such NPs is their aggregation that requires creation of methods for magnetite NPs stabilization during preparation of liquid medicinal forms on their basis. The present work is devoted to the possibility of mexidol (2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridine succinate) use for solubilization of magnetite NPs in hydrophilic medium. For this purpose, the condensate produced by electron-beam evaporation and condensation, with magnetite particles of size 5-8 nm deposited into the crystals of sodium chloride were used in conjunction with substance of mexidol (2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridine succinate), and low molecular weight polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The NP condensate was dispersed in distilled water or PVP or mexidol solutions. NPs size distribution in the liquid phase of the systems was determined by photon correlation spectroscopy, iron (Fe) concentration was evaluated by atomic emission spectrometry. It is shown that in the dispersion prepared in distilled water, the major amount of NPs was of 13-120 nm in size, in mexidol solution - 270-1700 nm, in PVP solution - 30-900 nm. In the fluid containing magnetite NPs together with mexidol and PVP, the main fraction (99.9%) was characterized by the NPs size of 14-75 nm with maximum of 25 nm. This system had the highest iron concentration: it was similar to that in the sample with mexidol solution and 6.6-7.3 times higher than the concentration in the samples with distilled water or PVP. Thus, in the preparation of aqueous dispersions based on magnetite NPs condensate, mexidol provides a transition of Fe to the liquid phase in amount necessary to achieve its biological activity, and PVP stabilizes such modified NPs.
Effect of melatonin on antioxidant enzyme activities in blood erythrocytes of rats during acute emotional stress
Authors: Pertsov S.S. , Kalinichenko L.S. , Koplik E.V. , Nagler L.G. , Alinkina E.S. , Kozachenko A.I.
Published: July 2015

The effect of the epiphyseal hormone melatonin on the activity of antioxidant enzymes, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD) was studied in peripheral blood erythrocytes of behaviorally passive and active Wistar rats. Acute emotional stress was modeled by immobilization of animals for1 h with simultaneous electrocutaneous stimulation. Basal activity of antioxidant glutathione enzymes in erythrocytes of behaviorally passive rats was higher than that in active animals. Administration of melatonin (2 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was accompanied by a decrease in the activity of GPx and GR in erythrocytes from non-stressed passive animals. After experimental stress, passive rats demonstrated a significant increase in the activity of Cu/Zn-SOD and GPx in peripheral blood erythrocytes. The absence of stress-induced changes in functional activity of antioxidant defense enzymes in the blood of behaviorally active animals suggests a relatively constant oxidative status of tissues in these animals under stress conditions. Melatonin administration had little effect on stress-induced changes in functional activity of the erythrocyte antioxidant system in passive rats. Active specimens pretreated with melatonin before stress exposure were characterized by activation of study antioxidant enzymes. Quantitative parameters of the erythrocyte antioxidant defense enzymes did not differ in behaviorally active and passive rats subjected to experimental stress after melatonin injection. Thus, exogenous melatonin abolishes differences in the activity of study antioxidant enzymes in erythrocytes of animals with different behavioral parameters under basal conditions and after experimental stress. In passive rats melatonin mainly reduced the initial tension of oxidative processes. By contrast, administration of this hormone to active specimens is followed by an increase in functional activity of the antioxidant enzyme system under conditions of acute stress.
Intensity of apoptotic processes, aconitate hydratase activity and citrate level in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated steatohepatitis under application of epifamin at basic therapy
Authors: Popov S.S. , Pashkov A.N. , Agarkov A.A. , Shulgin K.K.
Published: July 2015

DNA fragmentation, caspase-1 and caspase-3, aconitate hydratase (AH) activities, and citrate content have been investigated in the blood of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated by steatohepatitis. These indicators of apoptotic processes intensity and oxidative stress development were estimated after basic treatment and a combined therapy including epifamin. Before treatment DNA fragmentation blood leukocytes, decrease of AH activity and increase of caspases activities in the serum of patients were detected. Treatment with epifamin provided more pronounced changes in the investigated parameters towards control values as compared to basis therapy. Epifamin caused a positive effect on the citrate content in the serum of patients. Epifamin inclusion to the basic therapy was accompanied by a more pronounced changes towards the normal values of such biochemical parameters as ALT, AST, b-lipoproteins, cholesterol, fasting glucose and postprandial glucose levels. All these changes may be obviously attributed to epifamin-induced correction of the melatonin level and manifestation of adaptogenic properties and antioxidant effects of the hormone.
Eutrophication forecasting and management by artificial neural network: a case study at Yuqiao Reservoir in North China
Authors: Zhang Ya , Huang Jinhui Jeanne , Chen Liang , Qi Lan
Published: July 2015

Yuqiao Reservoir is the potable water supply source for a city with a population of more than 14 million. Eutrophication has threatened the reliability of drinking water supplies and, therefore, the forecasting systems for eutrophication and sound management become urgent needs. Water temperature and total phosphorus have long been considered as the major influencing factors to eutrophication. This study used the artificial neural network (ANN) model to forecast three water quality variables including water temperature, total phosphorus, and chlorophyll-a in Yuqiao Reservoir. Two weeks in advance for forecasting was chosen to ensure a sufficient preparation response time for algae outbreak. The Nash–Sutcliffe coefficient of efficiency (R2) was between 0.84 and 0.99 for the training and over-fitting test data sets, while it was between 0.59 and 0.99 for the validation data set. To better respond to the algae outbreak, a number of management scenarios formed by orthogonal experimental design were modeled to assess the responses of chlorophyll-a and an optimal management scenario was identified, which can reduce chlorophyll-a by 23.8%. This study demonstrates that ANN model is potentially useful for forecasting eutrophication up to 2 weeks in advance. It also provides valuable information for the sound management of nutrient loads to reservoirs.
Modelling aerated flows with smoothed particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Meister Michael , Rauch Wolfgang
Published: July 2015

Modelling aerated flows is a complex application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) since the interfaces between air and water change rapidly. In this work, the simulation of aerated flows with the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method is investigated with a focus towards the application in engineering practice. To prove the accuracy of the method, the processes of air entrainment and rising air bubbles are studied. Through monitoring the evolution of the bubble contours it is shown that the novel approach of adding artificial repulsion forces at the interface does not alter the dynamics but stabilizes the flow. Building on these fundamental processes we extend the discussion to practical applications with a special focus on forced aeration. Since the employment of a detailed SPH model to practical problems remains out of bounds due to the high computational demand, we propose a combined experimental and numerical study where experimental bubble characteristics are imposed on the numerical simulation. Based on the data of the conducted bubble column experiment, the computational demand is significantly decreased such that the oxygen consumption due to biokinetic processes can be modelled. The future perspective is to apply SPH to urban water systems, e.g., for simulating detailed processes in wastewater treatment and sewer hydraulics.
Thermal Decomposition Kinetics of Poly(L-lactic acid) after Heat Treatment
Authors: Cai Yan-Hua , Xie Yun-Chen , Tang Ying- , Zhao Li-Sha
Published: July 2015

Thermal decomposition behavior of Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) and PLLA composites after different heat
treatment were investigated using thermogravimetric analysis. Firstly, the thermal decomposition results of neat PLLA
showed that the decomposition of PLLA was a first-order kinetic reaction, and thermal decomposition kinetics indicated
that the heat treatment significantly affected activation energy of thermal decomposition of PLLA. The measurement
results also exhibited that the onset decomposition temperature of PLLA treated below 115°C was lower than that of the
pristine PLLA. Then, the effect of additive CaCo3 on the thermal decomposition behavior of PLLA was evaluated. The
addition of CaCo3 could significantly improve the crystallization performance of PLLA, but the CaCo3 did not change
the decomposition trend of PLLA, and the thermal decomposition behavior of PLLA/CaCo3 composites after isothermal
heat treatment was similar to that of PLLA. However, the thermal decomposition activation energy of PLLA/CaCo3 is
lower than that of PLLA.
Experimental Study for Biogas Upgrading by Water Scrubbing under Low
Pressure
Authors: Huang Li , Qing Chunyao , Tao Hongge , Wang YanJin , Liu Xinping
Published: July 2015

Biogas fuels is effective to alleviate the problem of energy shortage and ecological environment for sustainable
developing in rural China. But CO2 and other impurity in biogas will impede its use for generating high quality energy. In
this paper, water scrubbing technology has been used for biogas upgrading under low scrubbing pressure, and the
influence of CO2 removal rate and CO2 solubility caused by different experimental parameters including the feed gas flow
rate, water flow rate and scrubbing pressure were examined, and the experiments dates were analyzed by SPSS17.0, and
then the corresponding mathematical models were established. The result showed that, under the three scrubbing pressure
level(with normal pressure, 0. 15 Mpa and 0. 3 Mpa), the improve rate of CH volume fraction increased about 15%, and
CO2 volume fraction declined about 20% when scrubbing pressure raised in each level, and under 0.3 Mpa of pressure,
with 0.28 of flow rate ratio of gas and liquid, CO2 removal rate gotten as high as 73.14%.So the method of water
scrubbing under low pressure could be used for biogas preliminary upgrading processing when there is rich of water.
A New Algorithm for Noisy Speech Classification Based on GMM
Authors: Chen Zhongbao , Fang Zhigang , Xu Jie , Du Pengying , Luo Xiaoping
Published: July 2015

Speech can be broadly categorized into voiceless, voiced, and mute signal, in which voiced speech can be further
classified into vowel and voiced consonant. With the ever increasing demand of the speech synthesis applications, it is
urgent to develop an effective classification method to differentiate vowel and voiced consonant signal since they are two
distinct components that affect the naturalness of the synthetic speech signal. State-of-the-arts algorithms for speech signal
classification are effective in classifying voiceless, voiced and mute speech signal, however, not effective in further
classifying the voiced signal. In view of the issue, a new algorithm for speech classification based on Gaussian Mixture
Model (GMM) is proposed, which can directly classify a speech into voiceless, voiced consonant, vowel and mute signal.
Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm is effective even under the noisy environments.
Control System Design for Feeding Machine of Sound Absorption Board
Production Line
Authors: Xiao Yanjun , Zhang He , Liu Rui , Liu Yuxiang , Li Yongcong
Published: July 2015

This paper introduces a kind of mechanical structure and its control system, with which granular materials can
be put into mould with a higher leveling status, the mechanical structure adopts split type arrangement, its function is to
achieve the material removal and scraping, its control system is composed of a plurality of Mitsubishi PLC using masterslave
control method. The mechanism and control methods can be widely applied in automatic production lines, which
needs granular material into the mould quantitatively and passively wiped flatly.
Process Design Method of High Speed and Stable Cutting Hardened Steel
Authors: Bin Jiang , Minghui Zhang , Tong Xu , Wei Zhang
Published: July 2015

In view of the unstable cutting problem in the process of high speed milling hardened steel. Conduct
experiment of the stability of machine tool and high speed milling cutter. The machine tool spindle vibration spectrum and
vibration acceleration signal under the condition of different centrifugal force were detected. Obtained the critical speed of
security and stability cutting of milling cutter and machine tool spindle. Through the experiment of concave and convex
surface of hardened steel high speed milling, obtained the vibration characteristic of machine tool spindle and the shape
characteristic of machined surface of hardened steel concave and convex surface. Comparative analysis the experimental
results of milling cutter free running and milling hardened steel under the same speed condition. Recognizing the
significant effect of inherent vibration characteristics of machine tool to the stability of the hardened steel high speed
milling. With the aim of achieving stable and efficient cutting of hardened steel, put forward process design method of
high speed milling hardened steel. Using this process design method, obtained the process scheme of high efficient and
stability cutting hardened steel die. Process validation results show, the stability of the high speed milling concave convex
die of hardened steel improved over 33%.
Continuous Versus Single-Injection Peripheral Nerve Blocks: A Prospective Cohort Study Comparing Procedural Time and Estimated Personnel Cost
Authors: Carvalho Brendan , Yun Romy D. , Mariano Edward R.
Published: July 2015

Background and Objectives:

Continuous peripheral nerve blocks (CPNB) provide many additional benefits compared to single-injection peripheral nerve blocks (SPNB). However, the time and costs associated with CPNB provision have not been previously considered. The objective of this study was to compare the time required and estimated personnel costs associated with CPNB and SPNB.

Methods:

This IRB-exempt observational study involved provision of preoperative regional anesthesia procedures in a “block room” model by a dedicated team during routine clinical care. The primary outcome, the time to perform ultrasound-guided popliteal-sciatic blocks, was recorded prospectively. This time measurement was broken down into individual tasks: time to place monitors, prepare the equipment, scan and identify the target, perform the block, and clean up post-procedure. For peripheral nerve block catheters, time to insert, locate, and secure the catheter was also recorded. Cost estimates for physician time were determined using published national mean hourly wages.

Results:

Time measurements were recorded for 24 nerve block procedures (12 CPNB and 12 SPNB). The median (IQR; range) total time (seconds) taken to perform blocks was 1132 (1083-1290; 1060-1623) for CPNB versus 505 (409-589; 368-635) for SPNB (Table 1; p<0.001). The median (IQR) cost attributed to physician time during block performance was $35.20 ($33.66-$40.11) and $15.69 ($12.73-$18.32) for CPNB and SPNB, respectively.

Conclusion:

CPNB requires approximately 10 more minutes per procedure to perform when compared to SPNB. This additional time should be considered along with potential patient benefits and available resources when developing a regional anesthesia and acute pain medicine service.
Research on CER Accounting and Trading for Woody Biomass Power Generation Under CDM
Authors: Gaoxing Lin , Shuying Tian , Bin Wu
Published: July 2015

Based on the example of Anhui Chizhou Woody Biomass Power Generation Project under CDM, the paper
studied the types of woody biomass used for power generation, the requirements of CDM development for such kind bioenergy,
selection of baseline methodology, the procedure and the formulas for accounting the emission reduction, as well
as the monitoring, verification and certification for CERs produced from the woody biomass power generation. And
further, the paper forwarded proposals for the establishment of CERs trading system, such as regulations of purchase
agreement, international standards, governmental control policies and transaction broker system, etc.
Sol-gel derived coatings for the conservation of steel
Authors: Kiele Erika , Senvaitiene Jurate , Grigucevicienė Asta , Ramanauskas Rimantas , Raudonis Rimantas , Kareiva Aivaras
Published: July 2015

In this paper, sol-gel processing route has been applied and investigated for
the conservation of steel. Nanosilica coatings on steel surface have been
prepared using tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) as a starting material. The
methyl-modified silica sols were obtained by mixing of 3mas.% SiO2 sol
solution with hexamethyldisilozane (HMDS). The surface of steel was coated by
dip-coating technique. In order to compare the characteristics of coatings,
the steel substrates were also coated with commercial polymers Paraloid B67,
Cosmolloid H80 and Antik Patina. The surface morphology changes of the
uncoated and coated specimens before and after photochemical ageing were
investigated by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The
structure of the prepared coatings was also investigated by FTIR
spectroscopy. The hydrophobicity of surfaces was evaluated by contact angle
measurements. Potentiodynamic measurements were obtained in order to compare
corrosion parameters of the coatings.
Motivation and job satisfaction of health workers in a specialized health institution in Serbia
Authors: Djordjevic Dragan , Petrovic Dejan , Vukovic Dejana , Mihailovic Dobrivoje , Dimic Aleksandar
Published: July 2015

Background/Aim. Health care system is specific for each country, and
therefore involves different motivation and job satisfaction factors. The aim
of this study was to confirm the validity and applicability of the General
Nordic Questionnaire translated into Serbian for analyzing motivation and job
satisfaction, as well as to analyze the motivation factors and job
satisfaction of health workers at the Institute for Treatment and
Rehabilitation "Niska Banja". Methods. The General Nordic Questionnaire was
translated into Serbian. It included 73 questions (5 answers by the Likert
scale), which formed 24 scales. In May, 2012, 196 (82.3%) health workers
filled in the questionnaire. Results. A correlation of Ceronbach?s alpha
values between the Scandinavian study results and the results of Serbian
study was statistically significant (r = 0.424; p < 0.05). The lowest
Cronbach? alfa coefficient was for the scale ?learning demand in job demands?
(alpha 0.28). The other scale with no satisfactory reliability was ?control
of work pacing? (alpha 0.46). Intrinsic motivation positively correlated with
all the scales of organizational module, apart from inequality. Within this
module, the degree of extrinsic motivation correlated with the support from
the superior and coworkers, with fair leadership and human resources primacy.
A negative correlation appeared with inequality. Conclusion. The general
Nordic Questionnaire can be applied to a great extent to the conditions in
our country. Our study shows a low consistency of the scales learning job
demands, control of decision, control of work pacing, so the questions in
them should be adjusted to the conditions in our country. Extrinsic
motivation resulted in higher values than the values of intrinsic motivation
in our workers, which is opposite to the results of the original
questionnaire.
Factors contributing to communication skills development in cochlear implanted children
Authors: Ostojic Sanja , Djokovic Sanja , Radic-Sestic Marina , Nikolic Mina , Mikic Branka , Miric Danica
Published: July 2015

Background/Aim. Over the last 10 years more than 300 persons received
cochlear implant in Serbia and more than 90% of the recipients were children
under 10 years of age. The program of cochlear implantation includes
postoperative rehabilitation in which cognitive, integrative and
developmental methods are used. The study was conducted to reveal factors
affecting communication performance (CP) of cochlear implanted (CI) children.
Special attention was focused on the influence of the duration and intensity
of rehabilitation and hearing age on further development of communication
skills. Methods. A group of 30 CI children (13 boys and 17 girls) aged 2 to 5
years was enrolled in the study. All of the children had average intelligence
and no other developmental disorder. They lived in families and attended
rehabilitative seances 3 to 5 times a week. Their parents/ caregivers
answered structured questionnaire about functioning after pediatric cochlear
implantation (FAPCI) and the results were the subject of detailed statistical
analysis. Results. Analysis of variance did not show any difference between
the boys and the girls regarding FAPCI achievements (F (1, 28) = 2.909; p =
0.099) and age aberration in CP score (F (1, 28) = 0.114, p = 0.738).
Correlation analysis showed a statistically significant difference in FAPCI
scores related to hearing age and duration of rehabilitation. Regression
analysis (enter method) showed that model consisting of indipendent variables
significantly contributed to prediction of overall FAPCI scores and Adjusted
R2 value could explain 32% difference in communication skills of participants
in this study. Conclusion. Communication skills of CI children evaluated by
FAPCI are falling behind normatives for normal hearing children 18.6 months
on the average. Hearing age, duration and intensity of rehabilitation have
positive predictive value for communication skills development. Later
identification of hearing loss and later cochlear implantation lead to
delayed development of communication skills.