bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análisis de la producción de cuerpos académicos basado en teoría de grafos
Authors: Menéndez Domínguez Víctor Hugo , Guerrero Sosa Jared David Tadeo , Castellanos Bolaños María Enriqueta , Zurita Gallegos Esmeralda
Published: January 2020

En muchas universidades mexicanas, grupos de profesores conforman cuerpos académicos con la finalidad de generar nuevos conocimientos con base en la colaboración de sus miembros. Estos cuerpos académicos son clasificados siguiendo criterios establecidos por el Programa para el Desarrollo Profesional Docente (Prodep). Sin embargo, su valoración puede resultar subjetiva por la ausencia de herramientas que faciliten dicho proceso. Este trabajo se enfocó en analizar la producción y la colaboración de tres tipos de cuerpos académicos a partir de la información almacenada en la base de datos Scopus, haciendo uso de la visualización de datos, aplicando la teoría de grafos. La metodología utilizada se basa en la minería de datos educativos. Los resultados permitieron observar una correspondencia entre la estructura del grupo y el cumplimiento de la producción solicitada por el Prodep; los elementos más fuertes y más débiles de cada cuerpo académico fueron localizados con base en su participación y nivel de contribución. El aporte de esta investigación es el análisis de la producción y colaboración científica de un cuerpo académico haciendo uso de la teoría de grafos, lo que permite automatizar el proceso de evaluación y, de esta manera, reducir su interpretación subjetiva.
Evaluation and Analysis of the Deployment of Green Communication Technology in GSM
Authors: Bakare Bodunrin Isa , Orike Sunny , Oko D. I.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents an evaluation and analysis of the deployment of green communication technology in Nigeria. Most base stations in Nigeria uses diesel generators to power their Cell Sites, this has been identified as a problem if not checked because it will continue to add to the Carbon dioxide emission in the atmosphere and hence the depletion of the ozone layer. Green Communication Technology was proposed to solve this problem. Energy deployed are photovoltaic and wind turbine (PV/WT) energy while diesel generator (DG) will still be used as a backup. With the use of hybrid technology (PV/WT/DG), carbon emission will be reduced by 70% or more, efficiency will be achieved.. The results obtained from this research work are based on economics cost, efficiency, power outputs per year and carbon emissions. , in terms of efficiency the DG only system has a mean efficiency output of 8.18% and mean efficiency of 25% while the proposed system has a mean efficiency output of 14.8% and a mean efficiency of 27.5% for PV and 21.3% of WT, electrical production of DG only is 119439kWh/yr while Hybrid Systems (HBS) has electricity production of 124,488kWh/yr, base on life cycle DG only system operate for 3yr and max of 8yrs while HBS operate for 25yrs above, the carbon emissions for DG only system for CO2, CO, NO2 are 75,033, 473, 444kg/yr respectively and HBS for CO2, CO, NO2 is 264, 1.79 and 2.04kg/yr respectively. From the result obtained it can be concluded that the proposed system is better than the existing system, therefore, it can be recommended for GSM operators in Nigeria and  any developing nation.
Quality of Life for End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) PatientsUndergoing Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) Therapy: A Literature Review
Authors: Prasetya 'Adhi M. Hanif , Trisyani Yanny , Emaliyawati Etika
Published: January 2020

Introduction: ESRD adalah diagnosis akhir yang membutuhkan terapi pengganti ginjal seumur hidup seperti hemodialisa, peritoneal dialysis (PD) dan transplantasi ginjal. Populasi di dunia dan prevalensi penyakit ginjal stadium akhir terus meningkat, pasien semakin dihadapkan dengan keputusan untuk memulai terapi pengganti ginjal. Penelitian dan literature review yang menilai dampak perawatan terapi PD pada pasien ESRD masih terbatas. Tujuan dari literature review ini untuk menganalisis terapi CAPD pada pasien ESRD. Pencarian terbatas pada database elektronik seperti Pubmed, Proquest, dan Google Scholar, dengan kata kunci “ESRD”,”CAPD”,“Peritoneal Dialysis”,“Quality of Life” disusun berdasarkan MeSH Database dari NCBI. Methods: Strategi review artikel menggunakan PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses) dan dianalisa menggunakan konten analisis. Studi yang diterbitkan antara tahun 2009-2019, artikel penelitian dengan bahasa inggris, dipertimbangkan sebagai kriteria inklusi dalam tinjauan ini. Results: Didapatkan 25 artikel; 15 kuantitatif, 7 kualitatif, 2 case report dan 1 mixed methods. Discussion: Domain fisik; PD memberikan kelebihan pada peran-fisik, vitalitas, energik, dan bebas nyeri. Domain psikologis; PD menimbulkan depresi dan kecemasan yang lebih rendah daripada HD, bahkan 1 studi menyebutkan HD dapat menyebabkan depresi berat. Hubungan sosial; PD memberikan kemandirian pada gaya hidup, efikasi diri, kebebasan beraktivitas, fleksibilitas, dan mempertahankan kehidupan normal. Hubungan terkait lingkungan; pasien dengan PD lebih mungkin untuk melanjutkan pekerjaan mereka sehingga mereka secara finansial lebih baik dan lebih bebas untuk bepergian daripada HD, penghasilan terus dapat secara signifikan berkontribusi pada kesejahteraan pasien CAPD. Conclusion: PD terbukti memberikan kualitas hidup yang lebih baik. Dengan demikian, penting untuk mengembangkan terapi PD pada pasien ESRD yang membutuhkan dialisis jangka panjang, bahkan seumur hidup.
Effects of Abdominal Massage to Overcome Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Patients in Intensive Care Unit: A Literature Review
Authors: Kosasih Cecep Eli , Andriani Alisha Dewi , Lestari Astriani Ayu , Sekarjati Friska Maulia , Iqomatulhaq Hanifa , Audini Janet Jessica , Lestary Mia Vauziah , Ramdan Mohamad , Nurcholivatun Renie , Agustin Risna Risela , Almuwaroh Tanti , Manaf Yoga Abdul
Published: January 2020

Patients who are receiving treatment at the ICU have at least one symptom of gastrointestinal dysfunction including decreased bowel noise, abdominal distension, constipation, decreased frequency of defecation, and increased GRV (gastric residual volume). Non-pharmacological interventions that can be done to improve gastrointestinal function include abdominal massage. This paper aimed to conduct a literature review on the effects of abdominal massage to overcome gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients in the ICU. Articles taken from the Google Scholar and Science Direct electronic databases with the keywords abdominal massage, gastrointestinal function, bowel function, and ICU were published from 2015 to 2019. There were four research articles discussing abdominal massage to improve gastrointestinal function. Three articles used the Randomized Controlled Design method and one article used the Quasi Experimental method. Abdominal massage has a positive effect to improve gastrointestinal function in patients receiving treatment in the ICU. Improved gastrointestinal function that can be seen from the existence of a faster time in the reduction in gastric residual volume (GRV), decreased abdominal circumference, decreased gastric distension, and decreased the incidence of constipation. It is expected that abdominal massage can be applied by ICU nurses considering this intervention has the effectiveness in terms of time and funding.Keywords: Abdominal Massage, Gastrointestinal Function, Intensive Care Unit
Obesidade e Fibrilação Atrial
Authors: Medeiros de Vasconcelos J. Tarcísio
Published: January 2020

A fibrilação atrial ocupa uma discussão central hoje no universo das arritmias cardíacas. O aumento da expectativa de vida que trouxe um substancial aumento de sua prevalência na população geral1 implicou em um aprofundamento marcante na compreensão dos seus mecanismos eletrofisiológicos, na identificação de fatores determinantes ou de potencialização da sua ocorrência e obviamente no desenvolvimento de estratégias efetivas de tratamento e de prevenção das suas complicações. Desde o clássico estudo de Wijffels et al., publicado em 1995 (Atrial Fibrillation Begets Atrial Fibrillation)2 demonstrando experimentalmente que frequências atriais artificialmente impostas ao miocárdio atrial implicam em mudanças eletrofisiológicas marcantes determinantes da própria ocorrência da fibrilação atrial, ficou claro que a arritmia uma vez iniciada potencializa a sua própria ocorrência e um processo constante de retroalimentação, cujo desfecho final ao longo do tempo é a instalação da arritmia em uma forma permanente. Contudo para que a fibrilação atrial ocorra é necessária a presença de um ambiente eletrofisiológico adequado, consequente à presença de diversos elementos que agridem o miocárdio atrial sob o aspecto elétrico e estrutural.
Comparação Eletrocardiográfica entre Estimulação Cardíaca Artificial de Localização Apical, Septal e via de Saída do Ventrículo Direito
Authors: Carlos Alvarez Coello Coello Roberto , Patricio Serrano Piedra Diego
Published: January 2020

Contexto: A estimulação ventricular é prejudicial para a função cardíaca, com efeitos deletérios a longo prazo, alargando o complexo QRS, de modo que o melhor local de estimulação cardíaca ainda está sendo procurado. Objetivo: Comparar por medidas eletrocardiográficas a duração dos complexos QRS nos diferentes locais de estimulação cardíaca, dos prontuários de pacientes portadores de marcapasso que compareceram à consulta de Estimulação Cardíaca do Hospital Monte Sinai em Cuenca-Equador. Métodos: Foram analisados, retrospectivamente, 323 pacientes, no período de janeiro 2011 a novembro de 2018, classificando-os por morfologia eletrocardiográfica em estimulação apical, septal baixa, septal média e via de saída do ventrículo direito (VSVD). A duração dos complexos QRS estimulados foi quantificada usando um software digital que permite tal medição e armazena todos os registros. Subsequentemente, a comparação das médias dos diferentes locais de estimulação foi realizada utilizando ANOVA. Resultados: A idade média foi de 73,6 anos; 56,03% corresponderam ao sexo masculino; 49,84% tiveram estimulação apical, 21,67% septal média, 15,78% VSVD, 12,69% septal baixa. Ao final da mensuração dos complexos QRS, obteve-se média no ápice de 179,94 ms, no septo baixo de 172,56 ms, no septo médio de 153,89 ms e em VSVD de 171,66 ms. Ao comparar esses valores com a ANOVA de médias, a duração do QRS estimulado no septo médio foi menor do que os demais locais, sendo estatisticamente significante (p < 0,001). Conclusão: A estimulação cardíaca no septo médio é uma alternativa viável, o que resulta em menor duração do complexo QRS, portanto, melhor sincronização da contração miocárdica, evitando também os efeitos deletériosda estimulação apical já conhecidos.
Electrocardiogram in Haïssaguerre Syndrome (Early Repolarization)
Authors: Chiarini Raphael , Eduardo Duarte Carlos , Durval Ramalho Trigueiro Mendes Junior João , Tarcísio Medeiros de Vasconcelos José , dos Santos Galvão Filho Silas
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Early repolarization pattern (ERP) has traditionally been related as a benign variant of electrocardiography (ECG). However, since 2008, when two studies were published for Haïssaguerre et al. and Rosso et al., with evidence of a higher prevalence of ERP in people with primary or idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (VF), this paradigm has been challenged. Objective: To conduct a thorough review of early repolarization and current state of the art regarding risk stratification in these patients. Methods: Literature review on the subject evaluating the works published in high impact journals. Conclusion: The correlation of risk factors and the real value of the various methods currently available as possible risk stratifiers is still controversial. Advances in genetics and molecular biology may in the future help in understanding the pathophysiology and better risk stratification in this population. In this context, the standardization of the definition and classification of early repolarization is imperative, as it will serve as a substrate for future studies and researches in the area.
Ventricular Pre-excitation Causing Left Ventricular Dysfunction Partially Reverted After Ablation of the Accessory Pathway
Authors: Paulo Chaves de Melo João , Licia Ribeiro Cury Pavão Maria , Arfelli Elerson , Garcia Leal Marcelo , Antonio Marin-Neto José , Schmidt Andre
Published: January 2020

Ventricular pre-excitation is one of the rarest causes of cardiomyopathy induced or mediated by arrhythmia. Right accessory pathways, specifically with left bundle branch block pattern, can cause ventricular dysfunction, since abnormal ventricular activation resulting from anterograde atrioventricular conduction can cause atrioventricular, interventricular, and intraventricular dyssynchrony, with asynchronous contraction of the ventricular wall and mitral regurgitation. An asymptomatic patient, with ventricular pre-excitation with left bundle branch block and moderate ventricular dysfunction at echocardiography, was described. The electrophysiological study demonstrated an accessory route of anterior location and with an anterograde refractory period of 600 ms, successfully performing radiofrequency ablation and substantial improvement of ventricular function.
A study on the relationship of team members' competitiveness, team commitment and team satisfaction
Authors: Kang Kyusan , Tak Jinkook
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between team members' competitiveness, team commitment and team satisfaction, and also mediating roles of relationship conflict on the relationship between competitiveness and team commitment and satisfaction. Data were gathered from 285 employees. Results of correlational analyses showed that team members' competitiveness was significantly related to both team commitment and team satisfaction. Second, team members' relationship conflict fully mediated the relationship between team members' competitiveness and team commitment and partially mediated the relationship between competitiveness and team satisfaction. Third, verbal aggression and leader's consideration moderated the relationships between team members' competitiveness and relationship conflict. Finally, the implications and limitations of this study and the direction for future research were discussed.
The effect of Transformational Leadership and Transactional Leadership on Work Engagement
Authors: Lee ChulHee , Shin KangHyun , Heo Changgoo
Published: January 2020

This study was conducted to identify the effects of transformational leadership and transactional leadership on work engagement in a sample of 156 employees from major company. The present study also attempted to find out the mediating effect of psychological capital on the relationship and to investigate transformational leadership's augmentation effect on psychological capital and work engagement. The results showed that both transformational leadership and transactional leadership elevated levels of work engagement and these effects were found to be partially mediated by psychological capital. This implies that it is crucial that the role of leader who motivates employees to perceive high level of their psychological resources to create above the average performance or beyond performance expectation. Also difference test for mediating effect of psychological capital, which is a research question in this study, revealed that psychological capital had been relatively strong mediating effect on the relationship between transformational leadership and work engagement. This indicates that transformational leadership's augmentation effect on job satisfaction, organizational commitment, job performance in previous research was also found in psychological capital and work engagement. Finally, Implications and limitations of these results are discussed.
The effect of job autonomy on innovation behavior
Authors: Ko Deukyoung , Yoo TaeYong
Published: January 2020

The first purpose of this study was to examine the mediating effect of job satisfaction on the relationship between job autonomy and innovation behavior. The second purpose was to examine the moderating effect of proactive personality and openness to experience on the relationship between job autonomy and job satisfaction, And the third purpose was to examine the moderating effects of climate for innovation on the relationship between job satisfaction and innovation behavior. Data were gathered from 338 employees who were working in various organizations in Korea. As results, job autonomy had positive relationship with job satisfaction and innovation behavior, and job satisfaction had mediation effect on the relationship between job autonomy and innovation behavior. Proactive personality and openness to experience had moderating effects on the relationship job autonomy and job satisfaction because the relationship was more positive when proactive personality and openness to experience was high than low. Also climate for innovation had moderating effect on the relationship job satisfaction and innovation behavior because the relationship was more positive when climate for innovation was high than low. The implications for research and practice, limitations, and future research tasks were discussed.
The Impact of Group Diversity and Kunja Leadership on Group Performance
Authors: Ryu SuYoung
Published: January 2020

This article studied the impact of group diversity and kunja leadership on group performance and studied the moderating effect of kunja leadership on the relationship between group diversity and group performance from a social capital perspective. Group diversity was evaluated in terms of demographic, job-related, and values-based measures. Demographic diversity was measured by the degree of variability in age and gender within a team. Job-related diversity was measured by the degree of variability within a team in education levels, positions, types of jobs and team members' tenure worked with current team leader. Value diversity was measured by the degree of separation in both Confucian values and in Western values found within a team. Specially, the Confucian values were measured in Ryu(2007)' Korean Confucian values, while the level of Western values using the Rokeach Value Survey. Kunja leadership refers to a team leader exhibiting moral virtues of a kunja-an ideal person in Confucian society. Group performance was evaluated by the company's executive directors. Data were collected from 288 team members, 66 team leaders and 12 executive directors in 66 teams of 10 Korean corporations. The results were as follows: Of the control variables, group size and the degree of group formalization were positively related to group performance, while a leader's tenure was negatively related to group performance. Of the independent variables, team members' tenure diversity, Western values diversity, and kunja leadership were positively related to group performance. In addition, the facets of kunja leadership of humanity, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom, and trustworthiness were positively related to group performance, with courtesy having the most positive relationship. Kunja Leadership was found to positively moderate the relationship between diversity in educational levels and group performance, and to positively moderate the relationship between diversity in Confucian values and group performance. However, kunja leadership negatively moderated the relationship between diversity in Western values and group performance.
The effect of perfectionism on job burnout and professional efficacy
Authors: Son JinA , Lee Sunhee
Published: January 2020

We examined the mediational role of goal orientations in the relations between two perfectionism dimensions(i.e., evaluative concerns and personal standards) and job burnout and professional efficacy. Survey data from a total of two hundred seventy four employees of a call center and a R&D organization showed that personal standards, a positive aspect of perfectionism, was positively related to profession efficacy, while evaluative concerns, a negative aspect of perfectionism, was also positively related to job burnout. Furthermore, each of the relations was mediated by learning goal orientation and avoiding goal orientation, respectively. The theoretical and practical implications as well as directions for future research were discussed.
Authors: Sofjan Noorwahid
Published: January 2020

Abstrak:           

Wacana seputar HAM (human rights talk) tidak dapat dilepaskan dari bahasan filsafat, hukum, maupun politik. Dalam pada itu, untuk membangun sebuah rangkaian pemahaman yang menyeluruh  atas  HAM dan hubungannya dengan dunia politik dan aksi kemanusiaan, tulisan ini akan memberikan gambaran singkat tentang sejarah HAM. Kemudian ulasan  mengenai HAM berdasarkan tiga tingkatan analisa di atas. Pada aspek filosofis, akan diulas mengenai perkembangan ide hak asasi manusia. Dilanjutkan dengan pembahasan legal hukumnya dan hubunganya dengan nilai ideal normatif yang melandasi aksi kemanusiaan. Dan yang terakhir, adalah pembahasan mengenai dinamika politik yang mewarnai isu ham dan aksi kemanusiaan (humanitarian actions).

Kata Kunci: Hak Asasi Manusia, Aksi Kemanusiaan, Politik
EXPLORING TEACHERS’ RESEARCH COMPETENCY: INPUTS TO POLICY ENHANCEMENT
Authors: Ancho Inero
Published: January 2020

Using a convenience sample of 120 elementary, high school and senior high school classroom teachers in a City Schools Division, province of Bulacan, Philippines, the respondents were asked to complete a survey on general research skills and quantitative and qualitative research skills. The study explored the current status of teachers’ research competence. The results and findings of this study will serve as bases for policy enhancement. The policies anchored on concrete and evidence-based viewpoints contribute to successfully developing a culture of research among basic education teachers. As findings of the study reveal the current status of teacher-respondents regarding their research skills, overall numerical rating pegged to be “fair” when interpreted; it reflects a much serious state about their plight. The prerequisite to the successful implementation of research programs for teachers is on the basic assumption that teachers possess the necessary skills to do the task. Also, this is then being enhanced by revisiting teachers’ workload. Moreover, the presence of funding programs for teachers’ research projects exhibits a positive development in strengthening support for teachers’ professional development.
A STUDY AMONG ENGLISH TEACHERS’ PERCEPTIONS: INVESTIGATING THE ROLES OF ICT IN INDONESIAN EFL CLASSROOM
Authors: Isnani Khoirunnisa
Published: January 2020

The status of English as a foreign language in Indonesia makes the students use this language rarely. Whereas, English as international language and also a compulsory subject in secondary school to university level in Indonesia encourage students to master English. ICT comes with many advantages created innovation in teaching and learning English. Then, the teachers as the key role in the course should utilize it. However, the teachers should know the roles of ICT in teaching English. Therefore, this research aims to analyze English teachers’ perceptions on the roles of ICT in EFL classroom. This descriptive qualitative research involved five English teachers from different schools in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The research data were gathered using interview. The findings of the research showed that ICT plays role as a tool, a source, and an encouragement of students’ English learning.
IMPLEMENTING WRITING PROCESS APPROACH WITH PICTURES TO IMPROVE THE ABILITY OF THE EIGHTH GRADES IN WRITING RECOUNTS
Authors: Syafii Muhammad Lukman
Published: January 2020

Writing skill has an important role in the English teaching program in Islamic Junior High School. However, the ability of the eighth-graders of this school in writing is still dissatisfactory. The students feel still difficulties how to start writing and they don’t have an idea to write. This research is intended to progress the writing skill of the eighth graders by implementing a writing process approach with pictures. This strategy is chosen since it can lead the students to generate their ideas into a useful composition. The findings in the preliminary study show that the students need to learn how to start their writing and they do not have ideas to write. Only 8 of 31 students achieve the average score of writing skill equal to or above 70. To get the purpose, the researcher conducted action research following four steps: planning, implementing, observing, and reflecting. The subject of the study were 31 students of the eighth grade. The findings show that implementing a writing process approach with pictures has progressed the writing skill of students. In cycle one, the students’ average score was 15 of 31 failed and 16 of 31 students passed or got the score equal or greater than 70. In cycle two, the average score for the final product was 6 of 31 students failed and 25 of 31 students passed or got the score equal or greater than 70. Also, the findings of students revealed that the students’ participation was active and motivated using pictures in the teaching and learning activities. Based on the results, it can be summarized that implementing a writing process approach with pictures is very beneficial not only in progressing the students’ writing skill but also in motivating the students in the learning activities.Keywords: using pictures, writing skill, recount text
Implementation of the Logistic Regression Model and its Applications
Authors: Kushta Elmira Elmira , Trushaj Gladiola
Published: January 2020

The purpose of an analysis using this method is the same as that of any technique in constructing models in statistics, namely to find the best and most reasonable model to describe the relationship between a result variable and a set of variables independent. We are interested in how the costs affect them and if a customer has a travel card.

Credit card customers are shown to be 6 times more likely to use it regardless of the cost they make.It is also shown that a customer is more likely to use a travel card when costs increase Through logistic regression, which gives the probability that a result is an exponential function of the independent variables, we will see how through our data we will come to very important conclusions.
Contributions to the Study of the Chorology and Conservation Status of Lycopods in Mureş County
Authors: Sămărghiţan Mihaela , Oroian Silvia
Published: January 2020

This paper presents the obtained results on the chorology and conservation status of the lycopod species identified in Mureș County. It also represents a basis for further studies on monitoring, and establishes conservation measures for these species that are of community interest, included in the IUCN category LC (least concern). During the study, five lycopod species out of the seven listed in Romania were identified. The species are wide spread, occurring in groups that extend over relatively large areas. The conservation status is predominantly good and very good.
Phytosociogical Research on Wet Meadows Dominated by Scirpus sylvaticus L. in Călimani and Gurghiului Mountains (Mureș County)
Authors: Oroian Silvia , Sămărghiţan Mihaela
Published: January 2020

Phytosociological structure of the communities dominated by Scirpus sylvaticus was studied in the mountain area of Mureş County with focus on vegetation community organization, floristic composition and habitat conservation. The vegetation sampling and data analysis were done following standard procedures. The study of wet meadows from the Călimani and Gurghiului Mountains carried out in field during 2015-2019, highlights the presence of hygrophilous coenoses belonging to the Scirpetum sylvatici Ralski 1931 plant association. These wet meadows grow on alluvial, gleyic and acidophilous soils. The identified communities belong to Natura 2000 habitat 6430 Hydrophilous tall-herb fringe communities of plains in the montane to alpine levels. The conservation status of the habitat is good and very good and the floristic composition emphasizes a rich floristic diversity.
Curcumin-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier induced apoptosis in human HepG2 cells through activation of the DR5/caspase-mediated extrinsic apoptosis pathway
Authors: Wang Fengling , Ye Xi , Zhai Dandan , Dai Wenting , Wu Yifan , Chen Jin , Chen Weidong
Published: January 2020

Curcumin is a lipophilic anti-cancer compound extracted from turmeric. Our previous study demonstrated that the curcumin-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (Cur-NLC) exhibits superior anti-cancer activity in inhibiting proliferation as well as inducing apoptosis of human HepG2 cells compared to native curcumin. This study aims to unveil the mechanisms underlying the pro-apoptotic effect of Cur-NLC on HepG2 cells. Evidence indicates that low expression of death receptors (DRs) on cancer cell membranes leads to attenuated apoptosis signaling. This study showed that Cur-NLC significantly increased total expression of DR5 protein while simultaneously upregulated cell membrane expression of DR5. Cur-NLC significantly increased caspase-8 and caspase-3 activities, accompanied by increased apoptosis. Furthermore, enhanced apoptosis was inhibited in the presence of a pan-caspase inhibitor, Z-VAD-FMK. Therefore, Cur-NLC induced activation of the extrinsic apoptosis pathway via modulating the DR5/caspase-8/-3 mediated apoptosis pathway in HepG2 cells, suggesting that Cur-NLC is a promising therapeutic agent or supplement for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Application of targeted 2D planar chromatography in the control of ginkgolic acids in some herbal drugs and dietary supplements
Authors: Migas Piotr , Romańczuk Anna , Szumacher Marta , Krauze-Baranowska Mirosława
Published: January 2020

Two-step targeted 2D planar chromatographic method (2DTLC) was used in the determination of ginkgolic acids in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements. The choice of the extraction method and the separation technique was guided by the formulation type (capsule, tablet, tincture) with expected low amounts of ginkgolic acids in the analyzed herbal samples. Separation of ginkgolic acids C15:1 and C17:1 on HPTLC RP18 WF254s was preceded by its separation from the sample matrix on TLC Si60 F254s. Mobile phases consisted of acetonitrile/water/formic acid (80:20:1, V/V/V) and n-heptane/ethyl acetate/formic acid (20:30:1, V/V/V), resp. Identification of separated compounds was based on 2D-TLC co-chromatography with reference substances and off-line 2D-TLC x HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS analysis. Quantification of ginkgolic acids C15:1 and C17:1 was conducted densitometrically. Among the analyzed products, the presence of ginkgolic acids was confirmed only in herbal drugs containing 60 % ethanolic tinctures of Ginkgo biloba leaves. The use of TLC in the quantification of ginkgolic acids C15:1 and C17:1 in ginkgo extracts was described for the first time.
Effects of new generation triptans – frovatriptan and almotriptan – on hemodynamic parameters in intact male and female rats
Authors: Saracheva Kremena , Hrischev Petar , Vasileva Liliya , Topolov Mariyan , Nikolova Julia , Getova Damianka
Published: January 2020

The introduction of the second generation triptans in clinical and experimental practice was a major progress in the pharmacotherapy of migraine. Frovatriptan is a second generation triptan with strong 5-HT1B/1D serotonergic agonism and low 5-HT1A/7 receptor affinity, while almotriptan possesses not only the typical 5-HT1B/1D receptor agonist activity, but shows an affinity to the 5-HT1F receptor. The aim of our study was to assess the impact of frovatriptan and almotriptan on hemodynamics in male and female rats. We used a non-invasive “tail-cuff” method to measure the arterial blood pressure. Female and male Wistar rats were treated separately with high and low dosages of frovatriptan and almotriptan. Male and female rats showed reduction in all hemodynamic parameters, but only male rats showed an increase in the heart rate. In general, we could say that both almotriptan and frovatriptan potentiate cardiovascular safety.
Cavitation Erosion Resistance Influence of Material Properties
Authors: Zakrzewska D. E. , Krella A. K.
Published: January 2020

The cavitation erosion is the phenomena that causes degradation of fluid flow machinery components due to repetitive implosion of cavitation bubbles adjacent to the solid surface. Cavitation erosion is a complex phenomenon, which includes not only hydrodynamic factors of liquid, but also properties of erodible material e.g. microstructure, hardness or Young modulus. In order to reduce the negative impact of erosion on machine components, there are many methods to increase cavitation erosion resistance. The paper discusses the correlations between structural and mechanical properties and the resistance to cavitation erosion (CER) of pure materials, their alloys and coatings. Methods to increase CER have also been described - using heat / thermo-chemical treatment and application of coatings by various methods.
Chronopharmacology of high blood pressure—a critical review of clinical evidence
Authors: Potucek P. , Klimas J.
Published: January 2020

Physiological functions of cardiovascular system (CVS) are exhibiting circadian patterns regulated by complex system of endogenous factors. Preserving this rhythmicity is important for its normal function, whereas disturbing the synchronization with natural day–night cycle can increase the risk of cardiovascular damage. Cardiovascular pathophysiology also follows cyclic variation; time susceptibility and period with maximum risk associated with elevated blood pressure (BP) can be predicted. Given this rhythmic nature, significant changes in efficacy between morning and evening administration of the drug may occur; appropriate timing of pharmacological intervention in therapy of hypertension may affect the efficacy of the treatment.
Molecular docking study of L-Asparaginase I from Vibrio campbellii in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Authors: Mohideen Abdul Khader Sultan
Published: January 2020

The potential use of asparaginases has gained tremendous significance in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Earlier studies suggest L-asparaginases (L-ASP) extracted from Escherichia coli and Erwinia aroideae regulates L-asparagine (L-Asn) from the circulating blood. Prolonged exposure to these enzymes may lead to hypersensitivity reactions. So, it is important to find novel asparaginases with anti-cancer properties. The three-dimensional structure of L-ASP I from Vibrio campbellii was determined by homology modeling using EasyModeller v.4.0. The structure was validated with quality indexing tools and was deposited in Protein Model DataBase. Molecular docking was performed between L-ASP I and ligand substrate L-Asn to study enzyme-substrate interactions. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of L-ASP I enzyme was found to be reliable and stable with a significant protein quality factor (LG score: 7.129). The enzyme is a dimer, belongs to α/β class of proteins. The active sites comprises of N-glycosylation site and a catalytic triad (T14-S117-D92). The binding energy of the docked complex was calculated to be -7.45 kcal/mol. The amino acid T14 identified as a primary nucleophile essential for catalytic reaction. The enzyme L-ASP I of V. campbellii provides a detailed view of structure and functional aspects with ligand substrate L-Asn. This in silico investigation has explicitly demonstrated for the first time that cytosolic L-ASP Type I of V. campbellii to have a catalytic triad which was attributed only to periplasmic L-ASP Type II. Thus, L-ASP I can serve as anti-leukemic agent in the treatment, management and control of ALL.
Foreign Trade Liberalisation and Economic Growth: The Case of the Republic of Srpska
Authors: Popović Goran , Erić Ognjen , Popović Srđa
Published: January 2020

This paper assesses the impact of trade liberalisation on the economic growth of the Republic of Srpska (RS). The aim of the research is to prove the hypothesis that trade liberalisation and export orientation positively impact on GDP growth. RS has characteristically small and open economies. The degree and character of the connections between the observed variables was determined by means of regression analysis. Regression analysis indicates that there is a positive connection between the total trade and GDP growth. Further, there is a marked positive correlation between export and GDP, that is, export growth contributes to GDP growth. Foreign trade deficit stands in a negative correlation with GDP. Lastly, regression analysis points to the connection between the Republic of Srpska economic growth and openness of its economy. However, uncontrolled opening and exposure to foreign competitiveness can also bring about problems which in certain circumstances lead to long-term macroeconomic instability.
The In-Out Spatial Relation as Conceptualized and Verbalized by Danish Directional Adverbs and their Equivalents in Polish
Authors: Kacprzak Aleksander
Published: January 2020

The present paper aims to investigate and compare the conceptualization and verbalization of the in-out relation in Danish and Polish. The introductory paragraphs focus on the differences in the distribution of content in Polish and Danish employing Leonard Talmy’s typological classification of languages into verb-framed and satellite-framed, and provide information about Danish Directional Adverbs which are believed to be the key to understanding spatial relations in Danish. The analysis in the following paragraph reveals similarities and differences in the perception of the in-out relation through image schemas such as CONTAINER and CENTER-PERIPHERY. The analysis of the CENTER-PERIPHERY image schema in Danish reveals that there is often a presupposed reference point in situations where the directional adverb does not refer to the in-out relation denoted by the prepositional phrase, which leads to a description of the general structure of this image schema in the last part of the article.
The Early Miocene Bats (Chiroptera, Mammalia) from the Karstic Sites of Erkertshofen and Petersbuch 2 (Southern Germany)
Authors: Rosina Valentina V. , Rummel Michael
Published: January 2020

Fossil bats are described from the karstic deposits of the Erkertshofen 1, Erkertshofen 2 and Petersbuch 2 sites in eastern Bavaria, southern Germany (MN 4). Fossils are discussed with regard to taxonomic, stratigraphic and palaeoecologic significance. The rich fossil material represents at least 12 different bat species belonging to Megadermatidae, Rhinolophidae and Vespertilionidae. The syntopic appearance of four different rhinolophids is demonstrated for the first time for the Neogene bat assemblages of Europe. The remains of Rhinolophidae and Vespertilionidae are the most numerous, of which the proportion of typically early Miocene species Rhinolophus aff. lemanensis, R. dehmi, Hanakia agadjaniani and Miostrellus cf. petersbuchensis are significant. However, there are also remains of R. cf. delphinensis, M. cf. noctuloides, Plecotus cf. atavus and H. aff. antiquus, which are characteristic of the younger middle Miocene faunas of Central Europe. Analysis of the composition of the bat fauna has allowed biostratigraphic correlation of the studied faunas to be estimated at a number of other early Miocene localities in Europe.
The role of calprotectin in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wang Qin , Chen Weiqian , Lin Jin
Published: January 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration, high levels of cytokines, and erosion of cartilage and bone in joints. Calprotectin (CLP), as a recently described member of S100 family proteins, is a heterodimeric complex of S100A8 and S100A9. Currently, plenty of studies have indicated significantly increased serum and synovial fluid levels of CLP in patients with RA. It was reported that CLP was related to cell differentiation, migration, apoptosis, and production of pro-inflammatory factors in RA. In addition, there are the positive relationships between serum, synovial CLP and traditional acute phase reactants, disease activity, ultrasound and radiographic progression of joints, and treatment response of RA. In this review, we mainly discuss the role of CLP in the pathogenesis of RA as well as its potential to estimate clinical disease progression of RA patients.
Research progress in acute hypertensive renal injury by “in vivo cryotechnique”
Authors: Sun Da , Wang Jiaojiao , Yao Li , Li Zilong , Ohno Shinichi
Published: January 2020

Arterial hypertension has a large prevalence in the general population and as a major hypertensive target organ, the involvement of kidney is usually hard to avoid and gradually develops into chronic kidney disease (CKD). Acute hypertension is defined as a blood pressure greater than 180/120, also known as hypertensive emergency (HE). In acute severe hypertension, the pathophysiology damage to the kidney tends to worsen on the basis of chronic damage, and accounts for more significant mortality. However, the mechanisms of renal injury induced by acute hypertension remain unclear. This review summarizes the clinical and histopathological features of hypertensive renal injury by using “in vivo cyrotechnique” and focusses on the interplay of distinct systemic signaling pathways, which drive glomerular podocyte injury. A thorough understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of kidney damage and repair in hypertension will provide significant insight into the development of new research methods and therapeutic strategies for global CKD progression.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anti-infective agents during continuous veno-venous hemofiltration in critically ill patients: Lessons learned from an ancillary study of the IVOIRE trial
Authors: Breilh Dominique , Honore Patrick M. , De Bels David , Roberts Jason A. , Gordien Jean Baptiste , Fleureau Catherine , Dewitte Antoine , Coquin Julien , Rozé Hadrien , Perez Paul , Attou Rachid , Redant Sebastien , Kugener Luc , Saux Marie-Claude , Spapen Herbert D. , Ouattara Alexandre , Joannes-Boyau Olivier
Published: January 2020

Background

Hemofiltration rate, changes in blood and ultrafiltration flow, and discrepancies between the prescribed and administered doses strongly influence pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of antimicrobial agents during continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVH) in critically ill patients.

Methods

Ancillary data were from the prospective multicenter IVOIRE (hIgh VOlume in Intensive caRE) study. High volume (HV, 70 mL/kg/h) was at random compared with standard volume (SV, 35 mL/kg/h) CVVH in septic shock patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). PK/PD parameters for all antimicrobial agents used in each patient were studied during five days.

Results

Antimicrobial treatment met efficacy targets for both percentage of time above the minimal inhibitory concentration and inhibitory quotient. A significant correlation was observed between the ultrafiltration flow and total systemic clearance (Spearman test: P < 0.005) and between CVVH clearance and drug elimination half-life (Spearman test: P < 0.005). All agents were easily filtered. Mean sieving coefficient ranged from 38.7% to 96.7%. Mean elimination half-life of all agents was significantly shorter during HV-CVVH (from 1.29 to 28.54 h) than during SV-CVVH (from 1.51 to 33.85 h) (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study confirms that CVVH influences the PK/PD behavior of most antimicrobial agents. Antimicrobial elimination was directly correlated with convection rate. Current antimicrobial dose recommendations will expose patients to underdosing and increase the risk for treatment failure and development of resistance. Dose recommendations are proposed for some major antibiotic and antifungal treatments in patients receiving at least 25 mL/kg/h CVVH.
Walled-off peripancreatic fluid collections in Asian population: Paradigm shift from surgical and percutaneous to endoscopic drainage
Authors: Theerasuwipakorn Nonthikorn , Tasneem Abbas Ali , Kongkam Pradermchai , Angsuwatcharakon Phontep , Ridtitid Wiriyaporn , Navicharern Patpong , Kitisin Krit , Wangrattanapranee Peerapol , Rerknimitr Rungsun , Kullavanijaya Pinit
Published: January 2020

Background and Objectives

Drainage of symptomatic walled-off peripancreatic fluid collections (WPFCs) can be achieved by endoscopic, percutaneous, and surgical techniques. The aim of this study was to determine the current trends in management of WPFCs and the outcome of such modalities in Asian population.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, all patients diagnosed with pancreatitis from 2013 to 2016 in King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, were analyzed. Relevant clinical data of all patients with peripancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) was reviewed. Clinical success was defined as improvement in symptoms after drainage.

Results

Of the total 636 patients with pancreatitis, 72 (11.3%) had WPFCs, of which 55 (8.6%) and 17 (2.7%) had pancreatic pseudocyst (PP) and walled-off necrosis (WON), respectively. The commonest etiologies of WPFCs were alcohol (38.9%) and biliary stone (29.2%). Post-procedure and pancreatic tumor related pancreatitis was found in 8.3% and 6.9% patients, respectively. PP was more common in chronic (27.8%) than acute (5.5%) pancreatitis. Of the 72 patients with WPFCs, 31 (43.1%) had local complications. Supportive, endoscopic, percutaneous, and surgical drainage were employed in 58.3%, 27.8%, 8.3%, and 5.6% with success rates being 100%, 100%, 50%, and 100%, respectively. Complications that developed after percutaneous drainage included bleeding at procedure site (n = 1), infection of PFC (n = 1), and pancreatic duct leakage (n = 1).

Conclusion

Over the past few years, endoscopic drainage has become the most common route of drainage of WPFCs followed by percutaneous and surgical routes. The success rate of endoscopic route is better than percutaneous and comparable to surgical modality.
An analysis of flooding coverage using remote sensing within the context of risk assessment
Authors: Solovey Tatiana
Published: January 2020

Results of research of the identification of flooding as a result of groundwater table fluctuations on the example of the valley of the River Vistula, with the use of multi-spectral Sentinel-2 images from the years 2017–2018 are presented. An analysis of indexes of water use, calculated on the basis of green, red and shortwave infrared (SWIR) bands, for extraction of water objects and flooded areas was carried out. Based on the analyses conducted, a mapping method was developed, using three water indexes (MNDWI Modified Normalised Difference Water Index, NDTI Normalised Difference Index and NDPI Normalised Difference Pond Index). Results show that the 10 metre false colour composite RNDTIGNDPIBMNDWI obtained significantly improved submerged extractions more than did individual water indexes. Moreover, the 10-m-images of MNDWI and NDPI, obtained by the sharpening High Pass Filter (HPF), may represent more detailed spatial information on floods than the 20-m-MNDWI and NDPI, obtained from original images.