bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Production and Immunogenicity of a Clostridium difficile Spore-Specific BclA3 Glycopeptide Conjugate Vaccine
Authors: Aubry Annie , Zou Wei , Vinogradov Evguenii , Williams Dean , Chen Wangxue , Harris Greg , Zhou Hongyan , Schur Melissa J. , Gilbert Michel , Douce Gillian R. , Logan Susan M.
Published: February 2020

The BclA3 glycoprotein is a major component of the exosporangial layer of Clostridium difficile spores and in this study we demonstrate that this glycoprotein is a major spore surface associated antigen. Here, we confirm the role of SgtA glycosyltransferase (SgtA GT) in BclA3 glycosylation and recapitulate this process by expressing and purifying SgtA GT fused to MalE, the maltose binding protein from Escherichia coli. In vitro assays using the recombinant enzyme and BclA3 synthetic peptides demonstrated that SgtA GT was responsible for the addition of β-O-linked GlcNAc to threonine residues of each synthetic peptide. These peptide sequences were selected from the central, collagen repeat region of the BclA3 protein. Following optimization of SgtA GT activity, we generated sufficient glycopeptide (10 mg) to allow conjugation to KLH (keyhole limpet hemocyanin) protein. Glycosylated and unglycosylated versions of these conjugates were then used as antigens to immunize rabbits and mice. Immune responses to each of the conjugates were examined by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay ELISA. Additionally, the BclA3 conjugated peptide and glycopeptide were used as antigens in an ELISA assay with serum raised against formalin-killed spores. Only the glycopeptide was recognized by anti-spore polyclonal immune serum demonstrating that the glycan moiety is a predominant spore-associated surface antigen. To determine whether antibodies to these peptides could modify persistence of spores within the gut, animals immunized intranasally with either the KLH-glycopeptide or KLH-peptide conjugate in the presence of cholera toxin, were challenged with R20291 spores. Although specific antibodies were raised to both antigens, immunization did not provide any protection against acute or recurrent disease.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Propensity towards HPV Vaccine of Young Adult Students in Italy
Authors: Trucchi Cecilia , Amicizia Daniela , Tafuri Silvio , Sticchi Laura , Durando Paolo , Costantino Claudio , Varlese Federica , Di Silverio Bruno , Bagnasco Anna Maria , Ansaldi Filippo , Icardi Giancarlo
Published: February 2020

Background: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI), representing the main cause of genital warts and cervical cancer. This cross-sectional study evaluated knowledge and attitudes about HPV infection, related diseases, and prevention and propensity towards HPV vaccine among undergraduate students. Methods: An online and written survey about HPV and its prevention, targeted to young adults of both genders, was addressed to students attending health sciences and other schools at Universities of Genoa and Bari. Results: The overall median knowledge and attitude scores were 56.3% (25–75 p = 40–68.8%) and four out of five (25–75 p = 4–5), respectively. In the multivariate analysis, attending a health sciences university, using social networks ≤2 h a day, a history of STI, having heard about HPV and HPV vaccine previously resulted as predictors of higher knowledge scores. Having heard about HPV previously also predicted a high attitude score, together with a perceived economic status as good. Having Italian and healthcare worker parents, being employed, and following a specific diet, instead, predicted lower attitude score. Conclusions: Poor knowledge and good attitudes were found among undergraduates about HPV. In order to increase HPV vaccine compliance and the counselling skills of future healthcare workers, the improvement of training on HPV is needed.
Assessment of Ochratoxin A Exposure in Ornamental and Self-Consumption Backyard Chickens
Authors: Guerrini Alessandro , Altafini Alberto , Roncada Paola
Published: February 2020

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin that may be present in various food and feed of plant and animal origin, including chicken meat. In Italy, backyard poultry farming is rather widespread. Animals are raised for meat, eggs and for ornamental purpose, and they are often fed with home-made diets not subject to official controls. The purpose of this study was to evaluate exposure of ornamental and backyard chickens to OTA using biliary ochratoxin A as a biomarker. Therefore, bile samples, in addition to kidney, liver and muscle, were collected from 102 chickens reared in 16 farms located in 6 Italian regions. High-performance liquid chromatography method and fluorimetric detection (HPLC-FLD) analysis were carried out firstly on bile from all animals, and OTA was detected in 12 chickens (concentration range 3.83–170.42 µg/L). Subsequently, the kidneys of these chickens were also analysed, and the mycotoxin was not detected. The analytical detection limits (LODs) of OTA in bile and kidney were 2.1 µg/L and 0.1 µg/kg, respectively. In conclusion, these animals were exposed to OTA but their meat can be considered safe, given that this mycotoxin, if present, concentrates highest in kidneys. Biliary ochratoxin A confirms its use as a valid biomarker to assess exposure of poultry to OTA.
Performance art, corpo e gênero
Authors: Da Silva Ribeiro Acsa
Published: February 2020

O artigo aborda três obras de arte performáticas: “Desajuste”, “Diálogos Silenciosos” e “Reconhecer-se”, expostas no Pavilhão Performance da SP-ARTE no ano de 2015. O objetivo é propor uma reflexão sobre a performance art e a centralidade do corpo do artista em sua composição. Dialogando com teóricos como Henri-Pierre Jeudy, Merleau-Ponty e David Le Breton, buscamos signos e símbolos presentes nas performances estudadas para propor uma interpretação que observe quais são as principais ideias presentes naqueles trabalhos. A análise permitiu que se observassem importantes inquietações dos artistas e provocações que os mesmos fizeram, em suas obras, no tocante às noções de gênero. Além disso, o estudo propiciou verificar a importância do corpo do artista como matéria-prima essencial para a execução das performances, compondo um texto especial que é apropriado para essas manifestações artísticas. Assim, conclui-se que essa linguagem artística contemporânea tem sido de fato um importante veículo de realização das propostas de aproximação entre a arte e a vida.
CRECIMIENTO DE HABA EN SIMBIOSIS CON MICROORGANISMOS NATIVOS DE REGIONES PRODUCTORAS DEL NORTE DE PUEBLA, MÉXICO
Authors: Harris-Valle Citlalli , Mora-Guzmán Ezequiel , Palafox-Rodríguez Martín , Pérez-Pacheco César K. , Mejía-Franco Viridiana , Vázquez-Flores Yadira
Published: February 2020

Vicia faba L. es una leguminosa que se produce principalmente en zonas frías, pero requiere fertilizantes y plaguicidas sintéticos para mantener la producción. Esta leguminosa se cultiva en la región nororiental de Puebla, México, donde es viable utilizar microorganismos simbiontes nativos como biofertilizantes para disminuir el uso de agroquímicos. El objetivo del estudio fue aislar y describir bacterias fijadoras de nitrógeno (BFN) y hongos micorrízicos arbusculares (HMA) a partir de cultivos de haba en los municipios de Libres, Zaragoza y Xochitlán de Vicente Suárez, Puebla, México para formular y evaluar biofertilizantes bajo cultivo protegido de haba; asimismo, se estudió el efecto del origen y de la inoculación individual o simultánea de BFN y HMA. Se realizaron tres ensayos BFN, HMA y BFN-HMA bajo un diseño experimental completamente al azar, cada uno con cuatro tratamientos (tres por el origen de la cepa y el testigo). Después de la floración se evaluó la biomasa seca y fresca, concentración de nitrógeno en hojas, colonización micorrízica y nodulación en las raíces de las plantas. Los microorganismos fueron similares entre las tres localidades; no obstante, el origen de las bacterias modificó su respuesta in vitro de acuerdo con el pH, temperatura y salinidad. El crecimiento de las plantas y la concentración de nitrógeno en las hojas no mostraron diferencias significativas entre los tratamientos con BFN o HMA, pero los valores se incrementaron 10 % en ambas variables con BFN-HMA vs. testigo. No hubo diferencia significativa en la respuesta de las plantas en función del origen de BFN y HMA. Existe potencial para elaborar biofertilizantes que permitan disminuir el uso de agroquímicos en el cultivo de haba.
MERCOSUR:
Authors: Wilson Melisa Solange
Published: February 2020

Desde hace unas décadas, el papel de la cultura ha sido revalorado como factor determinante en el desarrollo de los países, por el valor económico que supone, y por su rol como puente de comunicación entre naciones, que facilita el conocimiento mutuo y la cooperación.En Latinoamérica, los países comparten similitudes a partir de la historia de lucha por la independencia, sin embargo, las relaciones entre ellos han sido insuficientes para lograr la integración. Las rivalidades y pujas de intereses han bloqueado en numerosas ocasiones los intentos de integración regional. La cultura constituye un factor clave para desterrar estas diferencias, permitiendo la unión de grupos que se identifican con valores e identidades que ella contribuye a crear a partir de la lengua, religión, historia, y tradiciones afines.El MERCOSUR arrastra problemas económicos, asimetrías políticas, diferencias de abordajes temáticos, y en la implementación de políticas entre sus Estados parte. En general se concibe a la integración económica como base de todo lo demás en una sociedad, dejando a un lado la cultura, y olvidando que sin su aporte muchos procesos de integración económica han fracasado al quedar desprovistos de identidad.En el presente artículo se aborda la importancia del ámbito cultural en el MERCOSUR. Se tratará el origen y la evolución que ha tenido el área cultural, especialmente las Reuniones de Ministros de Cultura de los países miembros. Adicionalmente, se contempla la temática de los Patrimonios Culturales Inmateriales planteados por la UNESCO, y que el MERCOSUR contribuye a preservar.
Entre la negación histérica y la adaptación. La política pública del Ministerio de Seguridad de la Provincia de Santa Fe en relación al narcomenudeo a partir del caso Los Monos. Rosario, 2012-2015
Authors: Gañán Javier
Published: February 2020

En este artículo se analizan algunos elementos que condicionaron la formulación de la política pública del Ministerio de Seguridad de la Provincia de Santa Fe en relación al fenómeno del narcomenudeo en Rosario entre 2012 y 2015, tomando como caso de estudio al clan “Los Monos”. Se sostiene que la agenda gubernamental incorporó la temática en términos de “combate al narcotráfico” sirviéndose de la versión predominante en la agenda pública. La construcción mediática alrededor de la “cuestión narco” presentaba un enemigo, un otro con facilidad de ser caracterizado como amenazante frente a la opinión pública. La problematización que el Ministerio de Seguridad realizó se sirvió de aquella caracterización mediática para intentar salir de la encerrona de la coyuntura crítica enmarcada con un aumento sostenido de la tasa de homicidios dolosos.
Rodríguez Munguía, Jacinto. (2018) La conspiración del 68. Los intelectuales y el poder:
Authors: Mozqueda Gerardo Baltazar
Published: February 2020

El año 2018 se cumplieron cincuenta años de un episodio negro en la historiacontemporánea de México, la llamada “matanza de Tlatelolco”. El movimiento, enprincipio estudiantil y luego popular ha sido marcado como un parteaguas en la vidapolítica nacional. Por las múltiples repercusiones que tuvo en el acontecer nacional, hasido señalado como el inicio del fin del régimen de partido único, que abarcó desde elperiodo posrevolucionario hasta el año 2000, en el que el PRI perdió las eleccionespresidenciales a nivel federal. En el marco del cincuentenario se publicaron diversasobras que analizan, desde distintos ángulos, los sucesos. Ediciones Proceso, publicó El 68:los estudiantes, el presidente y la CIA de Sergio Aguayo Quezada. De Gilberto GuevaraNiebla, 1968 explicado a jóvenes, por el Fondo de Cultura Económica. La editorial PlanetaMéxico publicó 1968. El año que transformó al mundo de Ángeles Magdaleno, mientras queSeix Barral editó Historias del 68 de Vicente Leñero, obra póstuma, escrita como guioncinematográfico. Entre otros títulos que circularon por las librerías mexicanas, lacantidad de publicaciones recientes es ya bastante sintomático sobre la relevancia de lacoyuntura política vivida
A ARTE DE FORMAR
Authors: Moreira Edimar Fernando
Published: February 2020

O presente artigo identifica algumas características da visão pedagógica de Edith Stein e seus desdobramentos no contexto do itinerário formativo da vida religiosa consagrada e do presbiterato. O termo alemão “Bildung” corresponde ao que traduzimos por formação. Significa configurar a alma a aquilo que a pessoa deve ser. Por isso, a pergunta sobre quem é o ser humano é bastante valorizada. Nesse processo, Deus é o mais essencial formador. Em sua liberdade e finitude, o ser humano acolherá ou não a graça divina. O caminho da formação, portanto, é um caminho de autonomia, pois todo formar é um autoformar-se. Assim, a compreensão pedagógica de Edith Stein convida a formação religiosa a compreender o papel primeiro e fundamental da pessoa em seu itinerário formativo.
Distributed Human 3D Pose Estimation and Action Recognition
Authors: Liu Guoliang
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we propose a distributed solution for3D human pose estimation using a RGBD camera network. Thekey feature of our method is a dynamic hybrid consensus filter(DHCF) is introduced to fuse the multiple view informationof cameras. In contrast to the centralized fusion solution,the DHCF algorithm can be used in a distributed network,which requires no central information fusion center. Therefore,the DHCF based fusion algorithm can benefit from manyadvantages of distributed network. We also show that theproposed fusion algorithm can handle the occlusion problemseffectively, and achieve higher action recognition rate comparedto the ones using only single view information.
Role of social networks in surgical services. Is it advantageous for a surgery service to have visibility on social networks?
Authors: Mayo Ossorio MÁ , Pacheco García JM
Published: February 2020

En las dos últimas décadas se ha producido a nivel global, y también en el mundo sanitario, una auténtica explosión de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC), lo que ha facilitado el acceso de profesionales y ciudadanos a las mismas. Por otro lado han emergido diferentes plataformas con diferentes perﬁles, a través de las cuales los profesionales, las sociedades cientíﬁcas, hospitales y servicios hospitalarios se han dado a conocer. En el presente artículo nos vamos a centrar en el papel que juegan de las redes sociales en los servicios quirúrgicos.
Factores socioeconómicos y educativos que influyen en el rendimiento escolar en Español y Matemáticas en una muestra de sexto año de Costa Rica
Authors: Perla Perla Rosa Herminia
Published: February 2020

Con el propósito de aportar elementos a una discusión sobre el mejoramiento de la calidad de la educación y sobre los esfuerzos orientados en tal dirección, se estudió el rendimiento escolar de 1,320 estudiantes matriculados en 1999 en el sexto año en escuelas de la Dirección Regional de Enseñanza de San José, Costa Rica. Mediante análisis correlacionales, de varianza simples y multivariados y de regresión múltiple, se procuró determinar en qué medida los factores socioeconómicos y educativos relacionados con el proceso educativo escolar inciden en el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes. Se analizaron datos (a) proporcionados por los padres para determinar la ocupación del padre y de la madre, el nivel educativo del padre y de la madre, el nivel de ingreso económico del hogar y el tamaño de la biblioteca del hogar; (b) aportados por los maestros, con el fin de indagar su grado académico, su antigüedad docente, su salario, el tamaño de la clase, el número de horas lectivas y el número de libros de texto utilizados por cada estudiante en la escuela; (c) proporcionados por los directores de la escuela respecto del presupuesto escolar para materiales didácticos y al tamaño de la biblioteca de la institución; y (d) resultantes de la administración de pruebas comprensivas en las disciplinas de Español y Matemáticas. Los resultados muestran que, a excepción del tamaño de la matrícula escolar, todas las variables independientes involucradas en el estudio están asociadas significativamente con el rendimiento académico. Se propone el mejor modelo predictor del rendimiento académico en la población del estudio.
Dynamic Comparison of the Fruit Sector and the Pollution Associated to Agriculture
Authors: Tudor Valentina Constanta , Mituko Vlad Ionela , Zamfir Vasca Diana
Published: February 2020

Pollution in agriculture plays a major role. One of the sector affected by this phenomenon is the perennial plants, such as fruits sector. This sector is an important part of agricultural production in Romania, mainly because of the areas that have been dedicated; that is why the sector should be reconsidered because it could be one of the engines of the agriculture. This have to led to important efforts and increased attention in managing the opportunities offered by the development of the associations and producer groups involved. The present paper aims to address certain aspects of the national, macro-regional and European aspects of these fruits productions and the impact of the degree of pollution in agriculture. In this respect, data derived from the public databases dedicated to this field, namely Eurostat, the National Statistics Institute, DG Agriculture / FADN database and the Ministry of Agriculture, were used. The methods used to analyze and interpret the results are descriptive statistics, dynamics and comparisons between target areas and indicators. The results highlighted in the first part of the paper the Romania�s position upon the European average in what concern the fruit sector but also upon a competing country on the fruit market, Poland, which is considered to have a European top position.
One Year Retrospective Study of Ocular Infection in a Tertiary Care Hospital from Timisoara
Authors: Bagiu Iulia Cristina , Horhat Delia Ioana , Popescu Simona , Horhat Florin George , Pilut Ciprian , Nitu Razvan , Dahma George , Dobrescu Amadeus , Amaricai Elena , Boruga Ovidiu , Bagiu Radu Vasile
Published: February 2020

Eye is the most important sensory organ concerned with the perception of vision. Ocular infections are one of the common diseases of the eye. Ocular infections as blepharitis, conjunctivitis, canaliculitis, dacryocystitis, keratitis, scleritis, orbital cellulitis, endophthalmitis, panophthalmitis and other infections which are responsible for increased incidence of morbidity and blindness worldwide, their morbidity vary from self-limiting trivial infection to sight threatening infection. To identify the bacterial profile of ocular infections in patients attending Ophthalmology Department. After clinical diagnosis of ocular infection made by Ophthalmologist, specimens were collected with the help of Ophthalmologist. Samples like eyelid swab, pus from dacryocystitis, corneal scrapings, corneal swab, and tissue specimens from 189 patients attending Ophthalmology Department were analyzed from 01.01.2014 to 01.01.2015. Using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, samples were collected according to the standard protocol. Inclusion criteria: 1. Clinically diagnosed cases of ocular infections attending Outpatient Department and Inpatient Department of Ophthalmology, Tertiary Care Center from Timisoara 2. Patients not on antibiotics (systemic or either topical) will be included in the study. 3. Patients not responding to antibiotics. Exclusion criteria: 1. Non-infectious etiology of ocular diseases. The material was examined Gram staining. The specimens were cultured on sheep�s blood agar, Chocolate agar and MacConkey agar, Chapman agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar. Drug susceptibility was tested using disc diffusion method (Kirby Bauer).The most common bacterial pathogen isolated were Staphylococcus aureus (29.7%) followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis (22.1%), other organisms isolated are Streptococcus pneumonia (17.9%), Klebsiella spp. (6.3%), Escherichia coli (4.7%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (3.4%). Among the opportunistic pathogens, Staphylococcus epidermidis, (22.1%) were the most common isolate followed by Staphylococcus saprophyticus (0.45%). Bacterial isolates were highly susceptible to Vancomycin (100%), Gentamicin (92.1%) among Gram positive organisms. The Gram negative organisms are highly susceptible to Tobramycin (95.4%) and Imipenem (87.9%). The study suggests that Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis are the most common etiological agents of Ocular infections. Most of the strains were sensitive to Vancomycin and Tobramycin. Persistent efforts should be put for continuous surveillance and epidemiological characterization which are imperative to treat and prevent morbidity and blindness of population at risk.
Comparative Study of Acid Etching on Dental Enamel
Authors: Jumanca Daniela , Matichescu Anamaria , Galuscan Atena , Rusu Laura Cristina , Muntean Cornelia
Published: February 2020

This experimental study aims to analyse the effectiveness of various materials used in demineralisation of dental enamel. This work aims to create a mechanical bond by filling the pegs with sealing material. In order to achieve this goal, five teeth were compared using different concentrations of orthophosphoric acid and exposure times. In this regard, five different tests were performed and the results were analysed using the SEM technique (scanning electron microscopy). These comparative analyses revealed that etching using 35% orthophosphoric acid for one minute and etching using Icon Etch for two minutes were the most effective.
Influence of Environmental Factors on the Primary Spontaneous Pneumotorax
Authors: Lunguleac Tiberiu , Hinganu Marius Valeriu , Grigorescu Cristina , Gavril Liviu Ciprian , Salahoru Paul , Patrascu Alexandru , Hinganu Delia
Published: February 2020

Pneumothorax is the presence of air between the two pleural effusions, making the pleural space from a virtual cavity to a real one. At present, we are facing a particular phenomenon: trying to establish with certainty the mechanisms underlying the occurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax and how to find and implement the best strategies for the application of treatment methods. Considering the classical conception that the incidence of spontaneous pneumothorax has a seasonal variability, we followed its distribution after the season, calendar month, by checking the statistical significance of the data obtained. Regardless of the dynamics factor involved and the likely mechanism of action, it seems to have an influence on the average duration of hospitalization and the length of time elapsed from intervention to discharge.
Study on Portulaca Oleracea Native Species as Vegetal Source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Authors: Popescu (Popiniuc) Candice , Popescu Carmen , Manea Stefan , Vladut Valentin , Caba Ioan , Covaliu Ileana Cristina , Abbas Hazem , Dune Alina , Lupuleasa Dumitru
Published: February 2020

Fatty grass, grasita or purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is an important plant identified as a natural weed in field crops and lawns. Purslane is widespread worldwide and is popular as edible plants in many areas of Europe, Asia and the Mediterranean region. This plant possesses mucilaginous substances of great medicinal importance. It is a rich source of potassium, magnesium and calcium and has the potential to be used as a vegetal source of omega-3 and omega-6. It is very good as a source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and contains the highest amount compared to any other green leafy vegetables. It also contains significant amounts of alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid, as well as an increased content of oxalate in fresh leaves. The antioxidant value and nutritional content of purslane are important for human consumption. It reveals a huge nutritional potential and indicates the potential for future use of this plant in food industry, dietary supplements, drugs, cosmetics and products for body care.
Resistance and Virulence Patterns in Gram Negative and Gram Positives Rods Isolated from the Hospital Environment in Bucharest, Romania
Authors: Mitache Mihaela Magdalena , Banu Otilia , Borcan Elvira , Gheorghe Irina , Marutescu Luminita , Popa marcela , Predescu Miruna , Rusu Elena , Nemes Roxana , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen
Published: February 2020

We aimed to investigate the antibiotic resistance�and virulence�markers in�Gram negative bacilli (GNB) and Gram positives coccus (GPC), strains recently isolated from the�hospital environment and from patients with surgical wound infections in order to obtain epidemiologically relevant data.The strains identification was performed with�the automated miniApi system. The resistance�phenotypes were established�using disk diffusion (CLSI, 2017). 61 strains were screened for the production of enzymatic soluble virulence factors: hemolysins, amylase, caseinase, aesculin hydrolysis, DNA-ase, lipase, gelatinase and lecithinase, which give microorganisms the ability to colonize and disseminate in the host. Multiplex PCR reactions were performed for the detection of carbapenemases, aminoglycoside-resistant determinants (AME�s), quinolone and tetracycline resistance in GNR and SCCmec cassette type in�Staphylococcus aureus�strains and�to identify the genetic�support of cell-associated�and soluble virulence factors�in�E. coli�strains�(fimH, sfaDE, papC, eaea, cnf1, bfpa, eaf, AggR, EaggE�genes) and biofilm production in Acinetobacter baumannii isolates (OmpA).The isolated�E. coli and A. baumannii strains were resistant to �-lactam antibiotics, including penicillins and beta-lactamase inhibitors, third / fourth generation cephalosporins and carbapenems (encoded by�blaOXA-48like�and blaTEMlike genes), quinolones (qnrA and qnrB), aminoglycosides�(aadB), and�tetracyclines (encoded by tetA and tetB). Most of the strains presented at least two of the eight tested virulence factors.�The carbapenemases and ESBLs producers proved to be positive for the majority of the tested soluble virulence factors, proving the pathogenic potential of these strains. In�S. aureus�isolates�the molecular analysis showed that 60% of the isolates were MRSA and the molecular analysis revealed the presence of the SCCmec cassette type�mec IVa and III types. Our data suggest the hypothesis according to which nosocomial origin of the strains can be explained by multiple drug resistance and virulence determinants.
Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Bacterial Pathogens in Elderly Patients Admitted in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Golli Andreea Loredana , Nitu Floarea Mimi , Balasoiu Maria , Lungu Marina Alina , Olteanu Madalina , Nemes Roxana Maria , Fortofoiu Maria , Rusu Elena , Olteanu Mihai
Published: February 2020

To identify and to determine the resistance pattern of bacterial pathogens involved in infections of the elderly patients (� 65 years) admitted in the intensive care unit (ICU) at County Emergency Clinical Hospital Craiova, Romania. A retrospective study of bacterial pathogens was carried out on 463 elderly patients (� 65 years) admitted to the ICU, from January to December 2017. The analysis of the resistance patterns for the action of the appropriate antibiotics was performed using Vitek 2 Compact system and diffusion method. In this study there were analyzed 617 samples from 463 elderly patients (� 65 years). A total of 776 bacterial isolates were obtained, of which 175 strains of Klebsiella spp. (22.55%), followed by MRSA - Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (108 -13.91%) and Escherichia coli (99 -12.75%). The most common isolates were from respiratory tract (572 isolates -73.71%). High rates of MDR were found for Pseudomonas (73.07%), MRSA (62.03%) and Klebsiella (44.57%). The study revealed an alarming pattern of antibiotic resistance in the majority of ICU isolates from elderly patients (�65 years), which draws attention to the need for judicious use of antibiotics and for careful monitoring of the drug resistance of patients.
Interrelations Between Clinical and Biochemical Parameters in Functional and Aesthetic Prosthetic Treatment of Dysfunctional Syndrome of the Stomatognathic System
Authors: Checherita Laura Elisabeta , Lupu Iulian Costin , Stamatin Ovidiu , Bulancea Bogdan Petru , Manuc daniela
Published: February 2020

In the cranio-mandibular malrelation, the TMJ can be affected primarly or may occur as a consequence of imbalance, especially at a functional level, with an important biochemical component, of the other components of the stomatognathic system. The patient with its own pathology and therefore individualisation and specificity of the treatment is the first motto of the physician in establishing the treatment plan for TMDs with craniomandibular malrelation and in the same time the importance regarding the interrelations between clinical and biochemichal parameters in polytherapy treatment of temporomandibular disorders. The research aim was to study the TMDs therapeutic possibilities and the biochemical impact of drug treatment at pacients diagnosed with TMDs and cranio-mandibular malrelationand and we applied various methods of treatmenton study group, comprised 88 (18.92%) patients in single/or multiple therapy, addressed to patients diagnosed with TMDs and craniomandibular malrelation. We consider a relevant good answer from effectiveness treatment point of view results.
HPLC-UV Method for Determination of Famotidine from Pharmaceutical Products
Authors: Nita Adriana , Tit Delia Mirela , Copolovici Lucian , Melinte (Frunzulica) Carmen Elena , Copolovici Dana Maria , Bungau Simona , Iovan Ciprian
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a rapid, accurate, and exact method for the quantitative determination of famotidine in pharmaceutical products. The HPLC analyses were performed by using a mobile phase containing methanol:1% acetic acid solution=30:7 (v/v), at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min.The total time of the method was 10 min, and the retention time of famotidine was 4.16 min. The detection was evaluated at l=267 nm. The method has been validated by using different validation parameters. The linear response of the detector for famotidine peak area was observed at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 0.0001 mg mL-1 , resulting in a correlation coefficient of 0.99998. The values of the detection limit and of the quantification limit are 0.00048 mg mL-1 and 0.00148 mg mL-1, respectively. The method proposed allowed accurate (with a relative error of less than 2%) and precise (RSD values less than 2.0%) determination of famotidine content in pharmaceutical products and can be used for its rapid quantitative analysis.
Pollution Impact of the Grozavesti Thermoelectric Power Plant on the Urban Agglomeration Bucharest
Authors: Balaceanu Cristina Mihaela , Mitiu Mihaela Andreea , Marcus Maria Iuliana , Mincu Mariana
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this paper is the experimental analysis of the thermoelectric power plant Grozavesti impact on Bucharest urban agglomeration for year 2015. Experimental research is done for the NOx and SO2 pollutant for all seasons. The thermoelectric power plant Grozavesti is located near the Botanical Garden. Data provided by the industrial source are processed and constitute the input for the determination of the NOx and SO2 concentrations by using the OML (Operational Local Model) air quality dispersion Gaussian model. The results from modelling shows that the highest NOx and SO2 concentrations occur in the winter and autumn periods, due to unfavorable meteorological dispersion conditions and due to the operation of thermal power plant Grozavesti in the cold seasons. Thermoelectric power plants Grozavesti, operate on natural gas, because power plant have been refurbished. Generally, the results show that the industrial power plant represent the main contributions for pollution when the NOx and SO2 are exceed the limit value, according to Law 104/2011- ambient air quality, and this affect vegetation and human health.
Experimental Observations About Improving the Properties of Collagen Extracts for Applications in Agriculture
Authors: Niculescu Mihaela Doina , Gaidau Carmen , Epure Doru Gabriel , Gidea Mihai
Published: February 2020

This study highlights the fact that some properties of collagen extracts obtained by thermo-chemical and enzymatic processes from leather by-products may be modified and corrected during concentration or filtration operations in order to achieve performance specific to applications in agriculture (seed, soil and plant treatment in various phases of vegetation), as an alternative to treatment using synthetic substances. Concentration of collagen hydrolysates at atmospheric pressure leads to polydispersions with high molecular weights favourable to structuring collagen films, that will gradually release organic nitrogen, for plant nutrition in various vegetation stages. Concentration under vacuum results in polydispersions with low molecular weights, richer in free amino acids and oligopeptides that can penetrate cell membranes. Also, filtration under vacuum using low-porosity membranes (0.45-0.80 mm) determines deagglomeration, selection and concentration of particles with sizes ranging from 1 to 10 nm and from 10 to 100 nm, characteristic to amino acids and dipeptides, into filtrates.
Hydrodesulphurization of Thiophene over Co, Mo and CoMo /g-Al2O3 Catalysts
Authors: Doukeh Rami , Trifoi Ancuta , Bombos Mihaela , Banu Ionut , Pasare Minodora , Bolocan Ion
Published: February 2020

The hydrodesulphurization (HDS) of thiophene was performed on monometallic catalysts Co/g -Al2O3, Mo/g -Al2O3 and bimetallic CoMo/g -Al2O3. Experiments were carried out on a fixed bed catalytic reactor at 175-300�C, 30-60 atm, thiophene volume hourly space velocities of 1h-1- 4h-1 and molar ratio hydrogen/thiophene of 60/1. The thiophene conversion on the bimetallic CoMo/g -Al2O3 catalyst was higher than on Co/g -Al2O3 or Mo/g -Al2O3.
Experimental Studies for the Cinnamaldehyde Adsorption on Dealuminated Clinoptilolite Using as Carrier
Authors: Cobzaru Claudia , Marinoiu Adriana , Cernatescu Corina , Puitel Adrian Catalin , Soare Amalia
Published: February 2020

In this study the adsorption of cinnamaldehyde on the dealuminated clinoptilolite has been studied in order to investigate the possibility of using this mineral as carrier for organic compound. The characterization of dealuminated clinoptilolite and adsorption of cinnamaldehyde on the material surface has been investigated by BET, SEM and FTIR methods. These analyses show that by dealumination, significant modifications are produced in chemical composition, pore volume and surface area of the clinoptilolite and the cinnamaldehyde was adsorpted in the structure of dealuminated zeolite. Due to properties of the cinnamaldehyde, the obtained product can be used as an agrichemical.
The Role of Ecopedological Parameters in Management Sustainability of Banat Lands
Authors: Nita Lucian , Tarau Dorin , Rogobete Gheorghe , Nita Simona , Bertici Radu , Sas Ioana Tuta , Sas Ioan , Dicu Daniel
Published: February 2020

The issue addressed relates to an area of 1891694 ha of which 1183343 ha are agricultural land (62, 56) located in the south-west of Romania and refer to the use of soil chemical and physical properties as an acceptor for certain crop systems, with minimal undesirable effects both for plants to be grown, as well as soil characteristics and groundwater surface quality. It is therefore necessary on a case-by-case basis, measure stoc or rect the acidic reaction by periodic or alkaline calculations, the improvement of plant nutrition conditions through ameliorative fertilization and the application of measures to improve the physical state, sufficient justification for the need to develop short and long term strategies for the protection and conservation of edifying factors and the need to respect the frequency of field and laboratory investigations at all 8x8 km grids of the National Soil-Grounds Monitoring System (organized by I.C.P.A.) and completing it with the relevant pedological and agrochemical studies.
Oleic Acid Amides With Potential Pharmacological Effects in the Overweight Treatment
Authors: Negut Catalina , Pintilie Lucia , Tanase Constantin , Udeanu Denisa Ioana , Draghici Constantin , Munteanu Cristian , Morosan Elena
Published: February 2020

Fatty acid amide analogues were synthesized from oleic acid, activated by 1,1�-carbonildiimidazole to oleoylimidazole and amines, and characterized by IR, MS, 1H- and 13C-NMR spectra. The compounds were investigated for their influence on body weight and food-intake effects on an obesity-induced mouse model.
The Influence of Heat Treatment on the Shape of 57Fe Hyperfine Field Induction Distribution in Massive Amorphous Fe61Co10Y8X1B20 (where X = Mo, W)
Authors: Nabialek Marcin
Published: February 2020

The paper presents the results of Mossbauer research for massive amorphous alloys Fe61Co10Y8Mo1B20 and Fe61Co10Y8W1B20 manufactured using the method of suction of a liquid alloy into a copper water-cooled mold and subjected to thermal treatment at a temperature of 700K / 60 min and 770K / 210 min. The treatment was carried out below the crystallization temperature and it did not lead to the creation in the volume of alloys of crystalline systems showing long-range order of atoms. M�ssbauer research was performed for low energy milled plates in transmission geometry. Then, numerical analysis of these spectra was performed and the corresponding hyperfine field distributions were obtained 57Fe. It has been shown that isothermal annealing has a big influence on the shape of the hyperfine field distribution. As a result of thermal processing, diffusion of the components took place, which caused the occurrence of diverse environments of iron atoms around the central atom. In the volume of all specimens, there was a lack of topological order in the arrangement of atoms.
Determination of the Inhibitory Capacity on HMG-CoA Reductase Enzyme by Statins Using Molecular Docking Method
Authors: Florescu Cristina , Rotaru Luciana Teodora , Varut Renata Maria , Grigorasi Gabriela , Kostici Roxana , Ciobanu Daniela , Cimpoesu Diana
Published: February 2020

Statins are a class of lipid-lowering medications that reduce cardiovascular disease and mortality in pacients who are at high risk. The molecular docking technique has become an increasingly important tool for drug discovery which help us understand the most stable conformations resulting from ligand-active site of the biological receptor interaction. Partial atomic charges was determined for each molecule showing that the interaction of statins with the receptor is through areas of increased electronic density. The present molecular docking study using Autodock 4.2 was conducted in order to achieve accurate predictions of the best way for bonding and minimum bonding energy, method being applied for five statins drugs as potential inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase enzyme. The results highlight that simvastatin represent the best inhibitory drug of HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, because the complex simvastatin-enzyme has the lowest binding energy value.
Study on Forms of Intoxication with Cocaine and Evolutionary Aspects
Authors: David Sofia , Knieling Anton , Damian Simona Irina , Diac Madalina , Sandu Ion , Iov Tatiana
Published: February 2020

Cocaine is an alkaloid obtained from the leaves of the coca plant, Erythroxylum coca. Cocaine sulfate, a brown paste, is obtained from coca leaves and from this, cocaine hydrochloride, a white substance, soluble in water and with a bitter taste that may be in the form of white crystals or powder. From cocaine hydrochloride crack is obtained by heating, a more purified form and with greater power of intoxication and addiction. Once in the organism, cocaine behaves like an indirect sympathomimetic amine and produces a blockade of the presynaptic reuptake of dopamine, adrenaline, noradrenaline and serotonin, thus increasing their levels. At the cardiovascular level cocaine is responsible for malignant arrhythmias, sometimes responsible for sudden death. Other symptoms that can occur are aortic dissection, arterial hypertension and coronary vasoconstriction able to trigger an acute myocardial infarction. The authors present a case of sudden cardiac death due to cocaine intoxication in a young male without any cardiac risk factors. The autopsy, together with the results of the complementary tests, indicate that the most probable death mechanism has been a cardiogenic shock secondary to extensive myocardial necrosis due to cocaine intoxication.
Synthesis, Crystal Structures and Characterization of a New Antitumor Cu(II) Complex with N-sulfonamide Ligand
Authors: Hangan Adriana Corina , Turza Alexandru , Stan Roxana Liana , Oprean Luminita Simona
Published: February 2020

A new Cu(II) complex with N-sulfonamide ligand, [Cu(N-(5-(4-methylphenyl)-[1,3,4]-thiadiazole-2-yl)-toluenesulfonamidate)4]((CH3)2NH2+)2(complex) has been synthesized and characterized. The X-ray crystal structure of the complex has been determined. The Cu(II) ion is four-coordinated, forming a CuN4 chromophore. The ligand acts as monodentate, coordinating the metal ion through a single Nthiadiazole atom. The complex has a square planar geometry. The characterization of the complex has been studied by FT-IR, electronic, EPR spectroscopic and magnetic methods.
CBCT Evaluation of the Severity of Maxillary Impacted Canines Using the KPG Index
Authors: Olteanu Cristian , Ganea Ioana , Pop Andreea , Lucaciu Ondine , Tarmure Viorica , Ionescu Ecaterina , Teodorescu Elina , Chibelean Manuela , Bud Eugen , Pacurar Mariana
Published: February 2020

The use of CBCTs (cone beam computer tomography) instead of 2D radiographs in impacted tooth cases allows precise localisation of the impacted canine in all three axial directions, accurate evaluation of its relations with its neighbouring structures and spatial estimation required for the placement of the impacted canine on the arch. Together with today�s technological advancements, CBCT has improved, as well as its accuracy to localise impacted maxillary canines with the KPG index a system for 3D classification of impacted maxillary canines on CBCT, in report to its ideal position on the arch. The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment difficulty for impacted maxillary canines by the use of the KPG index, for a study group of patients being diagnosed with impacted maxillary canines. Based on this, the orthodontist can rapidly establish the treatment level of difficulty for the impacted canine.
Considerations for Using a Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid for Breaking Crude Oil Emulsion from Reservoir
Authors: Olarasu Lacramioara , Stoicescu Maria , Malureanu Ion , Onutu Ion
Published: February 2020

In the oil industry, crude oil emulsions appear very frequently in almost all activities, starting with drilling and continuing with completion, production, transportation and processing. They are usually formed naturally or during oil production and their presence can have a strong impact on oil production and facilities. In this paper we addressed the problem of oil emulsions present in a reservoir with unfavorable flow properties. It is known that the presence of emulsions in a reservoir can influence both flow capacity and the quality of its crude oil, especially when they are associated with porous medium�s low values of permeability. Considering this, we have introduced a new procedure for selecting a special fluid of fracture. This fluid has two main roles: to create new flow paths from the reservoir rock to wells; to produce emulsion breaking of emulsified oil from pore of rocks. Best fracturing fluid performance was determined by laboratory tests. Selected fluid was then used to stimulate an oil well located on an oil field from Romania. In the final section of this paper,we are presenting a short analysis of the efficiency of the operation of hydraulic fracturing stimulation probe associated with the crude oil emulsion breaking process.
Hormonal Biochemical Markers in Ectopic Pregnancy Monitoring
Authors: Braila Anca Daniela , Ionescu Cringu Antoniu , Calin Alina , Musetescu Anca Emanuela , Lungulescu Cristian , Braila Mihai , Navolan Dan , Neacsu Adrian
Published: February 2020

Ectopic pregnancy is a polymorphic disorder, with difficult early diagnosis, and in late stages it determines serious complications, targeting obstetrical and vital prognosis of the patient. A precise and early diagnosis is supported on ultrasound and dosage of the b-hCG dynamics. The presence of b-hCG, the empty uterine cavity on ultrasound tests, the detection of a periuterine tumor mass leads to the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. The treatment of ectopic pregnancy is a medical and surgical one. The medical treatment is preferred by most clinicians when it is possible. Our study aims to diagnose and monitor the tubal ectopic pregnancy under methotrexate treatment through biochemical marker hormone b-hCG and progesterone dosing in dynamics. Success or failure rate of the conservatively treatment with methotrexate depends on the initial b-hCG value. The purpose to spare fertility of the young women who want to procreate has led us to avoid surgery and give more weight to curative therapeutic behavior.
Effects of Octylphenol Biodegradation and Toxicity in Biological Systems
Authors: Dumitrescu Gabi , Dronca Dorel , Petculescu Ciochina Liliana , Ahmadi Mirela , Pet Ioan , Filimon Nicoleta Marioara , Popescu Roxana
Published: February 2020

In industrialized countries, many researches have highlighted a correlation between the presence of octylphenol in different plastics or detergents and its estrogenic effect. The metabolism of alkylphenols (4-n-octylphenol and 4-tert-octylphenol) is depending on alkyl chain and at testicular level act as endocrine disruptions. The purpose of our work was to evaluate the octylphenol effect on the testicular morphological changes in mice. Our experiment was performed on adult mice, divided into three experimental groups of 5 individuals each, respectively: control group (C -untreated); the vehicle group (V) treated with ethanol and corn oil mixt (1:10); and experimental group (E - treated with octylphenol in concentrations of 80 mg / kg body weight). Octylphenol is a pollutant that has to be monitoring because our study showed a decrease in male fertility due to morphological alterations as a result of exposure to a series of hormone mimetic molecules. Animals exposed to octylphenol presented morphological changes at the testicular level manifested disorganization of the seminiferous epithelium, hypertrophic and hypereosinophilic spermatocytes, presence of apoptotic bodies, as well as the diffuse hyperplasia of the Leydig interstitial cells, proving that octylphenol negative influences the male fertility.