bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rock compressibility from microcomputed tomography images: Controls on digital rock simulations
Authors: Saxena Nishank , Hofmann Ronny , Hows Amie , Saenger Erik H. , Duranti Luca , Stefani Joe , Wiegmann Andreas , Kerimov Abdulla , Kabel Matthias
Published: April 2019

Rock compressibility is a major control of reservoir compaction, yet only limited core measurements are available to constrain estimates. Improved analytical and computational estimates of rock compressibility of reservoir rock can improve forecasts of reservoir production performance and the geomechanical integrity of compacting reservoirs. The fast-evolving digital rock technology can potentially overcome the need for simplification of pores (e.g., ellipsoids) to estimate rock compressibility as the computations are performed on an actual pore-scale image acquired using 3D microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). However, the computed compressibility using a digital image is impacted by numerous factors, including imaging conditions, image segmentation, constituent properties, choice of numerical simulator, rock field of view, how well the grain contacts are resolved in an image, and the treatment of grain-to-grain contacts. We have analyzed these factors and quantify their relative contribution to the rock moduli computed using micro-CT images of six rocks: a Fontainebleau sandstone sample, two Berea sandstone samples, a Castelgate sandstone sample, a grain pack, and a reservoir rock. We find that image-computed rock moduli are considerably stiffer than those inferred using laboratory-measured ultrasonic velocities. This disagreement cannot be solely explained by any one of the many controls when considered in isolation, but it can be ranked by their relative contribution to the overall rock compressibility. Among these factors, the image resolution generally has the largest impact on the quality of image-derived compressibility. For elasticity simulations, the quality of an image resolution is controlled by the ratio of the contact length and image voxel size. Images of poor resolution overestimate contact lengths, resulting in stiffer simulation results.
Flow-induced alterations of ultrasonic signatures and fracture aperture under constant state of stress in a single-fractured rock
Authors: Kamali-Asl Arash , KC Bijay , Ghazanfari Ehsan , Hedayat Ahmadreza
Published: April 2019

Fluid-fracture surface interaction, caused by different mechanisms, is one of the underlying reasons for permeability reduction over long period of time in different georesources, such as deep geothermal systems and shale gas/oil reservoirs. The sensitivity of the ultrasonic signatures (e.g., frequency content, velocity, amplitude, and attenuation) to the changes in fracture aperture caused by fluid-fracture surface interactions can be considered as a probe for flow-induced fracture aperture evolution. Flow-through tests on an artificially fractured phyllite specimen from a geothermal reservoir along with the concurrent measurements of ultrasonic signatures of P- and cross-polarized S-waves demonstrated the sensitivity of ultrasonic signatures to the evolution of fracture aperture/permeability under a constant state of stress (i.e., constant pore and confining pressures). In particular, the closure of the fracture and the decrease of permeability led to an increase of the P-wave velocity, a decrease of the P-wave attenuation, and an increase of the S-wave amplitude. In addition, time evolution of the time-frequency maps of the transmitted ultrasonic waves revealed that partitioning of the frequency content slightly changes because the fracture aperture/permeability is altered. Specifically, alterations in hydraulic aperture are reflected in the changes of time-frequency partitioning, whereas under constant hydraulic aperture, the time-frequency partitioning is unaltered.
Randomised controlled trial comparing narrative exposure therapy with present-centred therapy for older patients with post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Lely J.C.G. , Knipscheer J.W. , Moerbeek M. , ter Heide F.J.J. , van den Bout J. , Kleber R.J.
Published: April 2019

Background

Evidence-based treatment and age-specific services are required to address the needs of trauma-affected older populations. Narrative exposure therapy (NET) may present an appropriate treatment approach for this population since it provides prolonged exposure in a lifespan perspective. As yet, however, no trial on this intervention has been conducted with older adults from Western Europe.

Aims

Examining the efficacy of NET in a sample of older adults.

Method

Out-patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), aged 55 years and over, were randomly assigned to either 11 sessions of NET (n = 18) or 11 sessions of present-centred therapy (PCT) (n = 15) and assessed on the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) pre-treatment, post-treatment and at follow-up. Total scores as well as symptom scores (re-experience, avoidance and hyperarousal) were evaluated.

Results

Using a piecewise mixed-effects growth model, at post-treatment a medium between-treatment effect size for CAPS total score (Cohen's d = 0.44) was found, favouring PCT. At follow-up, however, the between-treatment differences were non-significant. Drop-out rates were low (NET 6.7%, PCT 14.3%) and no participant dropped out of the study because of increased distress.

Conclusions

Both NET and PCT appear to be safe and efficacious treatments with older adults: PCT is non-intrusive and NET allows for imaginal exposure in a lifespan perspective. By selectively providing these approaches in clinical practice, patient matching can be optimised.

Declaration of interest

None.
Discordance in Biomarker Expression in Breast Cancer After Metastasis: Single Center Experience in India
Authors: Gogia Ajay , Deo S. V. Suryanarayana , Sharma Dayanand , Phulia Rakesh K. , Thulkar Sanjay , Malik Prabhat S. , Mathur Sandeep
Published: April 2019

PURPOSE

Biomarker—estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2/ neu) —discordance plays an essential role in the management and prognosis of patients with metastatic breast cancer. Rates of discordance have been previously reported around 12% to 35%, 30% to 50%, and 5% to 15%, respectively, in Western literature. Data are sparse regarding the same from developing countries, such as India.

METHODS

We performed an ambispective review of paired biomarker status in patients with breast cancer—stage I, II, and III as per American Joint Committee on Cancer, 7th edition—who developed metastasis at recurrence (N = 103 patients). Biomarker status and clinical and radiologic parameters were documented at baseline and subsequent follow-up.

RESULTS

Discordance was present in 21.3% for ER, 29.1% for PR, and 15.5% for HER2/ neu receptor. In our cohort, 7.8% had positive to negative ER and 13.6% negative to positive. Whereas 21.4% had positive to negative PR, 7.8% had negative to positive PR. Approximately 6.8% had positive to negative HER2/ neu receptor and 8.7% negative to positive. In our cohort, 41 patients (40%) had single-site metastasis—bone, 15.5%; lung, 11.7%; nonregional lymph node, 7.8%; liver, 3.9%; and brain, 0.97%. More than one site of metastasis was present in 62 patients (60%). The most common sites of metastasis were visceral—lung and liver—followed by bone, nonregional lymph node, skin, and brain.

CONCLUSION

The current study demonstrated that metastatic disease evolution in breast cancer is characterized by change in the tumor biology, which leads to discordance in receptor status. Repeat biomarker studies at metastatic recurrence is warranted, especially if treatment plans include hormone and targeted therapy.
High-Frequency Stimulation on Skeletal Muscle Maintenance in Female Cachectic Mice
Authors: SATO SHUICHI , GAO SONG , PUPPA MELISSA J. , KOSTEK MATTHEW C. , WILSON L. BRITT , CARSON JAMES A.
Published: April 2019

Cancer cachexia, an unintentional body weight loss due to cancer, affects patients’ survival, quality of life, and response to chemotherapy. Although exercise training is a promising intervention to prevent and treat cancer cachexia, our mechanistic understanding of cachexia’s effect on contraction-induced muscle adaptation has been limited to the examination of male mice. Because sex can affect muscle regeneration and response to contraction in humans and mice, the effect of cachexia on the female response to eccentric contraction warrants further investigation.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine whether high-frequency electric stimulation (HFES) could attenuate muscle mass loss during the progression of cancer cachexia in female tumor-bearing mice.

Methods

Female wild-type (WT) and ApcMin/+
(Min) mice (16–18 wk old) performed either repeated bouts or a single bout of HFES (10 sets of 6 repetitions, ~22 min), which eccentrically contracts the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle. TA myofiber size, oxidative capacity, anabolic signaling, and catabolic signaling were examined.

Results

Min had reduced TA muscle mass and type IIa and type IIb fiber sizes compared with WT. HFES increased the muscle weight and the mean cross-sectional area of type IIa and type IIb fibers in WT and Min mice. HFES increased mTOR signaling and myofibrillar protein synthesis and attenuated cachexia-induced AMPK activity. HFES attenuated the cachexia-associated decrease in skeletal muscle oxidative capacity.

Conclusion

HFES in female mice can activate muscle protein synthesis through mTOR signaling and repeated bouts of contraction can attenuate cancer-induced muscle mass loss.
Sex differences in gene expression patterns associated with the APOE4 allele
Authors: Hsu Michelle , Dedhia Mehek , Crusio Wim , Delprato Anna
Published: April 2019

Background:TheAPOEgene encodes apolipoprotein ε (ApoE), a protein that associates with lipids to form lipoproteins that package and traffic cholesterol and lipids through the bloodstream. There are at least three different alleles of theAPOEgene:APOE2,APOE3, andAPOE4. TheAPOE4allele increases an individual's risk for developing late-onset Alzheimer disease (AD) in a dose-dependent manner. Sex differences have been reported for AD susceptibility, age of onset, and symptom progression, with females being more affected than males.

Methods:In this study, we use a systems biology approach to examine gene expression patterns in the brains of aged female and male individuals who are positive for theAPOE4allele in order to identify possible sex-related differences that may be relevant to AD.

Results:Based on correlation analysis, we identified a large number of genes with an expression pattern similar to that ofAPOEinAPOE4-positive individuals. The number of these genes was much higher inAPOE4-positive females than inAPOE4-positive males, who in turn had more of such genes thanAPOE4-negative control groups.

Conclusions:Profiling of these genes using Gene Ontology (GO) term classification, pathway enrichment, and differential expression analysis supports the idea of a transcriptional role ofAPOEwith respect to sex differences and AD.
Exploring gaps in monitoring and evaluation of male engagement in family planning
Authors: Adamou Bridgit M. , Iskarpatyoti Brittany S. , Agala Chris B. , Mejia Carolina
Published: April 2019

Background:Male engagement is becoming more common in family planning (FP) strategies and interventions, yet effective monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of this approach lags. This review sought to understand how male engagement in FP is defined, identify gaps in M&E of male engagement and make recommendations.

Methods:We conducted key informant interviews and a desk review of peer-reviewed articles and gray literature, including national FP strategies and policies.  We then facilitated an online forum with experts in the field of male engagement in FP to provide feedback on our proposed indicators for male engagement in FP to reach consensus on and validate key indicators.

Results:Although there is no universal definition of male engagement in FP, the most common definition is the inclusion of men in FP programming as FP clients, supportive partners, and agents of change. The most common approach was engaging men as clients exclusively, followed by engaging men as partners. Few papers reported on programs that engaged men across the full spectrum of the definition. There’s significant variation in the degree to which male engagement in FP is included in M&E, planning, and approaches. Few programs reported findings disaggregated by sex and by contraceptive method, making it difficult to determine the effect of programming on male use of methods. There is a dearth of indicators for measuring male engagement in FP in national strategies and policies. Other gaps are a lack of core indicators for male engagement, qualitative indicators, and indicator reference sheets for many commonly used indicators. Among over 100 indicators being used to monitor and evaluate male engagement in FP, 15 key indicators were identified and validated, with accompanying guidance.

Conclusions:As programming for male engagement in FP increases, coordinated efforts should be made to improve the systems that collect, analyze, and use data.
Implementing neuroimaging and eye tracking methods to assess neurocognitive development of young infants in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Katus Laura , Hayes Nathan J. , McCann Samantha , Mason Luke , Blasi Anna , Darboe Momodou K. , de Haan Michelle , Moore Sophie E. , Lloyd-Fox Sarah , Elwell Clare E.
Published: April 2019

Infants and children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are frequently exposed to a range of environmental risk factors which may negatively affect their neurocognitive development. The mechanisms by which factors such as undernutrition and poverty impact development and cognitive outcomes in early childhood are poorly understood. This lack of knowledge is due in part to a paucity of objective assessment tools which can be implemented across different cultural settings and in very young infants. Over the last decade, technological advances, particularly in neuroimaging, have opened new avenues for research into the developing human brain, allowing us to investigate novel biological associations. This paper presents functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), electroencephalography (EEG) and eye tracking (ET) as objective, cross-cultural methods for studying infant neurocognitive development in LMICs, and specifically their implementation in rural Gambia, West Africa. These measures are currently included, as part of a broader battery of assessments, in the Brain Imaging for Global Health (BRIGHT) project, which is developing brain function for age curves in Gambian and UK infants from birth to 24 months of age. The BRIGHT project combines fNIRS, EEG and ET with behavioural, growth, health and sociodemographic measures. The implementation of these measures in rural Gambia are discussed, including methodological and technical challenges that needed to be addressed to ensure successful data acquisition. The aim is to provide guidance to other groups seeking to implement similar methods in their research in other LMICs to better understand associations between environmental risk and early neurocognitive development.
Bayesian evaluation of the performance of three diagnostic tests for Plasmodium falciparum infection in a low-transmission setting in Kilifi County, Kenya
Authors: Mweu Marshal M. , Wambua Juliana , Njuga Fixtan , Bejon Philip , Mwanga Daniel
Published: April 2019

Background: Central to the successful elimination of Plasmodium falciparum malaria, are tests with superior capability of diagnosing low-density parasitaemias. Empirical evidence on the performance of the commonly available diagnostics (light microscopy (LM), rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)) is needed to better inform case management and surveillance activities within primary health care settings where elimination of falciparum malaria is targeted. The objective of this study was to estimate the sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) and predictive values of LM, RDT and PCR tests for P. falciparum infection, while evaluating the effect of specific covariates on the accuracy of the tests.

Methods: The study enrolled 1,563 children via a cross-sectional survey for asymptomatic malaria and those presenting with symptomatic malaria to the Ngerenya dispensary, Kilifi County between March and December 2014. A Bayesian latent class model (BLCM) was fitted to the participants’ diagnostic data obtained from blood samples that were screened for the presence of P. falciparum using the three tests.

Results: The PCR assay registered a higher Se (97.6% [92.0; 99.7]) than LM (84.0% [74.8; 91.0]) but similar to RDT (92.2% [84.4; 97.0]). However, the assay showed a similar Sp (98.9% [98.2; 99.4]) to both RDT (99.4% [98.9; 99.7]) and LM (99.5% [99.0; 99.8]). Regarding predictive values, the tests yielded statistically similar estimates of Positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV). A serial interpretation of the results of RDT and LM raised the PPVs and NPVs to >98%.

Conclusions: LM and RDT tests afford high Se and Sp in a low P. falciparum prevalence setting. A serial combination of the tests assures high PPV and NPV estimates. These elements, coupled with the wide deployment and affordability of the tests, lend the tests useful for guiding clinical care and surveillance activities for P. falciparum within elimination settings.
Imaging the patient with heel pain
Authors: Khan Shah HM , Thevarajah Viyasar , Zubairy Aamir I
Published: April 2019

Heel pain is a common presentation in primary care and affects a wide range of the population but predominantly elderly, obese and athletic patients. History and clinical assessment are paramount in the management of this condition but the presentation can confound clinicians, necessitating the use of imaging to confirm or clarify the diagnosis when there is clinical uncertainty. This article illustrates the various conditions producing heel pain to help clinicians determine the appropriate imaging modality to image the common causes of heel pain. A linked article detailing the management of heel pain is included in this issue ( https://doi.org/10.12968/hmed.2019.80.4.196 ).
Shared perioperative decision making: a shift in the doctor–patient paradigm
Authors: Hester Natalie , Pang Ching-Ling , Cho Alexander , Kasivisvanathan Ramanathan , Gooneratne Mevan
Published: April 2019

The high-risk surgical patient only constitutes approximately 4% of the elective non-cardiac surgical population but contributes to the vast majority of in-hospital deaths following surgery. This, in conjunction with a high morbidity rate, can lead to a perioperative pathway fraught with challenges. It is incredibly difficult to anticipate which complications may arise and the risks involved before surgery. It is for this reason that patients need to be engaged in the decision-making processes regarding their perioperative care involved before major surgery. A combination of good medical practice, medicolegal influences and a governmental drive have begun to result in a shift away from paternalistic medicine to a shared decision-making approach. This article defines shared decision making, explores its benefits and limitations and addresses the relevant legal literature.
Fascia iliaca compartment block versus IV morphine for femoral fracture pain
Authors: Williams Jonathan , Laws Samantha
Published: April 2019

Background:

Femoral trauma in the UK is increasing. The fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) could be a more effective, safer way to ease pain and distress from femoral trauma in the prehospital environment than the current practice of intravenous morphine.

Aim:

To conduct a systematic review to accumulate evidence concerning prehospital FICB for patients with femoral fracture.

Methodology:

A systematic review was conducted using the CINAHL, Medline, AMED, PubMed and Embase databases. In addition, a hand search of the Journal of Paramedic Practice and the Australasian Journal of Paramedicine was performed. The search was carried out from 28 March–24 April 2018.

Results:

Twenty-eight papers were sourced by the methodology, of which four met the inclusion criteria and were subsequently analysed.

Conclusion:

This review shows that prehospital FICB can be efficacious in a number of prehospital environments and is feasible for a variety of patients with a range of femoral fractures. Additionally, FICB has limited reported adverse side effects in the prehospital environment and would appear to be safe. However, evidence comparing the efficacy of a prehospital FICB to intravenous morphine use for pain management in femoral fractures is limited. This review indicates that more research in this area would be beneficial.
Effective Teacher Modelling
Authors: Riches Adam
Published: April 2019

Effective teacher modelling can help to address misconceptions before they arise. Adam Riches advises how teachers can make this approach work in their classrooms
Changes in 2,6-dimethoxy-1,4-benzoquinone and Water Extractable Arabinoxylan Content of Wheat Germ Extract by Enzyme Treatment
Authors: Lee Jae-Kang , Lee Jung-Hun , Choi Yong-Hyun , Choi Yong-Seok , Ryu Gi-Hyung
Published: April 2019

This study was carried out using Celluclast 1.5L to increase the content of 2,6-DMBQ and water extractable arabinoxylan in wheat germ extract. Extraction temperatures were 30°C, 45°C and 60°C. The extraction times were 0, 6, 12, 18, 24 and 30 h. The pH of the extract decreased rapidly from 18 h at 30°C in both water- and enzyme-treated extracts. 2,6-DMBQ of water- and enzyme-treated extracts increased with the extraction time. At 30-hour extraction time, enzyme-treated extract increased 27.60% at 30°C extraction temperature than water extraction. Extraction temperatures of 45°C and 60°C were increased by 65.03% and 151.05%, respectively. The highest content of waterextractable arabinoxylan was 15.23±0.08 mg/g when the enzyme was treated at an extraction temperature of 60°C for 30 h. At 30=hour extraction time, enzyme-treated extract increased 7.92% at 30°C extraction temperature compared to water extraction. Extraction temperatures of 45°C and 60°C were increased by 31.20% and 54.38%, respectively.
Elaboration and structural characterization of phosphate glasses with composition 37.5Na2O-25[(1-x)MgO-xNiO]-37.5P2O5 (0≤x≤1)
Authors: Lamrous Laila , Farid Redouane , El Jazouli Abdelaziz , Krimi Saida , Haddad Mustapha , Oudadesse Hassane , Sebti Said , Couzi Michel
Published: April 2019

Phosphate glasses, with molar compositions 37.5Na2O-25[(1-x)MgO-xNiO]-37.5P2O5 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1), have been prepared using the conventional melt quenching technique. The free nickel glass is colorless while the glasses containing nickel are yellow. The effect of Ni2+ ions on structural and physico-chemical properties of these glasses has been investigated by XRD, DTA, EPR, Raman, FTIR spectroscopies and by density and chemical durability measurements. Substitution of Ni2+ for Mg2+ strengthens the glass network, as shown by the decrease of the molar volume, the increase of the glass transition temperature, and the improvement of the chemical durability. This behavior is a consequence of the replacement of Mg-O bonds by more covalent Ni-O bonds. The glass structure consists of tri-phosphate (P3O10) 5- and di-phosphate (P2O7) 4- groups, and Mg/NiO6 octahedra, with Mg-O-P and Ni-O-P linkages.
Mathematical modeling and thermodynamic study of copper (II) removal from aqueous solution by Coriandrum Sativum seeds
Authors: Kadiri Lamya , Lebkiri Ahmed , Rifi EL Housseine , Ouass Abdelkarim , Essaadaoui Youness , Lebkiri Imane
Published: April 2019

Coriandrum Sativum seeds (CSS), were tested as a new eco-friendly adsorbent of copper ions from aqueous solutions. Hence, the effect of the most influencing experimental parameters such as initial concentration of Cu (II) and the temperature was studied upon the adsorption process in order to use its results in following studies. Lagergren pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and Intraparticle diffusion models were used to describe the biosorption kinetics. The adsorption process was also analyzed by Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin models and the maximum monolayer biosorption capacity of CSS was found to be 33,5 mg. g−1 by using the Langmuir model. So as to investigate the thermodynamic properties of the adsorption process, the Gibbs free energy (ΔG°), enthalpy (ΔH°), and entropy (ΔS°) values in the temperature range of 25-55C° were also calculated in order to conclude the process characteristics. SEM and EDAX analysis were effectuated in order to study the surface morphology of CSS before and after the adsorption process.
Synthesis of tetrahydroindazol-4(5H)one and 7-thione from reaction of functionalized cyclic enaminones with hydrazine
Authors: El Ashry El Sayed H. , Awad Laila Fathy , Bdeewy Omayma Kh.
Published: April 2019

Functionalized enaminones; 3-N-(aryl)amino-1--oxo-cyclohex-2-ene-2-dithiocarboxylates cyclohex-2-en-1-ones and 3-N-(aryl)amino-2-(N-aryl)thioamido-cyclohex-2-en-1-ones were obtained upon reaction of 3-N(aryl)amino-5,5-dimethyl-1-oxo-cyclohex-2-enes with carbon disulfide in presence of sodium hydroxide in DMSO, followed by methylation with dimethyl sulfate or with phenyl and p-bromophenyl isothiocyanates in toluene or under solvent-free condition, respectively. The cyclization of the dithioesters or the thioamides with hydrazine hydrate was accompanied by a displacement of the 3-N- arylamine moiety by a hydrazine group to give 6-hydrazino-4,4-dimethyl-1,3,4,5-tetrahydroindazole-7-thione or 3-N-(aryl)amino-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-indazole-4(5H)one respectively. Structure of the indazole derivatives formed was further confirmed from their reaction with acetone or p-nitrobenzaldehyde. The new structures were confirmed using 1HNMR, 13CNMR, 2DNMR, DEPT experiments and mass spectra.
Induktív és kombinatív gondolkodás fejlettségének online vizsgálata egyetemi tanulmányaikat kezdő hallgatók körében
Authors: Pásztor Attila
Published: April 2019

A felsőoktatás expanziója számos új kihívás elé állítja az oktatási rendszereket, többek között a hallgatók tudásában, képességeiben és motivációiban jelentkező megnövekedett variancia kezelése elé. Megfelelő intervenció híján a gyengébb képességű hallgatók diplomaszerzése elhúzódhat vagy lemorzsolódhatnak, a jobb képességű hallgatók azonosítása is nehezebbé válik, a hatások összegződésével jelentősen romolhat a felsőfokú képzések eredményessége. Az új kihívásokra való hatékony reagálás minden szinten összetett feladat, ugyanakkor a tervezéshez és a beavatkozások megvalósításhoz is nagymértékben hozzájárulhat, ha képet kapunk a tanulmányaikat megkezdő hallgatók általános gondolkodási képességeinek fejlettségéről. A kutatás célja a Szegedi Tudományegyetemen tanulmányaikat kezdő hallgatók induktív és kombinatív gondolkodásának online vizsgálata. Az adatfelvételben 1682 fő vett részt. Az induktív gondolkodás tesztben figurális sorozatok és analógiák, valamint számsorozatok és számanalógiák szerepeltek. A kombinatív gondolkodást mérő feladatotokban képekből, valamint betűkből és számokból kellett különböző összeállításokat megadni. Az adatfelvétel az eDia rendszer alkalmazásával valósult meg az egyetem könyvtárának számítógépparkjában, a kitöltést mérési koordinátorok felügyelték. Bár a teszteken nyújtott átlagos teljesítmények nem voltak alacsonyak, a szórások és az eloszlások vizsgálata, valamint az itemanalízis eredményei alapján feltételezhető, hogy a teszteket kitöltő hallgatók negyede tanulási nehézségekkel nézhet szembe az egyetemi évei alatt. Vizsgálatunk hozzájárul a felsőoktatási expanziót követő új kihívások természetének részletesebb megismeréséhez, valamint a lehetséges megoldások kidolgozásához is.
Wind Turbine Public Safety Risk, Direct and Indirect Health Impacts
Authors: Palmer William K.G.
Published: April 2019

Wind turbines are often perceived as benign. This can be attributed to the population majority dwelling in urban locations distant from most wind turbines. Society may understate the risk to individuals living near turbines due to an overstatement of the perceived benefits of turbines, and an understatement of the risk of injury from falling turbine parts, or shed ice. Flaws in risk calculation may be attributed to a less than fully developed safety culture. Indications of this are the lack of a comprehensive industry failure database, and safety limits enabling the industry growth, but not protective of the public. A comprehensive study of wind turbine failures and risks in the Canadian province of Ontario gives data to enable validation of existing failure models. Failure probabilities are calculated, to show risk on personal property, or in public spaces. Repeated failures, and inadequate safety separation show public safety is not currently assured. A method of calculating setbacks from wind turbines to mitigate public risk is shown. Wind turbines with inadequate setbacks can adversely impact public health both directly from physical risk and indirectly by irritation from loss of safe use of property. Physical public safety setbacks are separate from larger setbacks required to prevent irritation from noise and other stressors, particularly when applied to areas of learning, rest and recuperation. The insights provided by this paper can assist the industry to enhance its image and improve its operation, as well as helping regulators set safety guidelines assuring protection of the public.
Incretins today: multiple effects and therapeutic potential
Authors: Tsygankova Oksana V. , Veretyuk Varvara V. , Ametov Alexander S.
Published: April 2019

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) are the incretin hormones initially discovered in the 1960s. GIP and GLP-1 have gained great scientific interest due to their properties in increasing insulin secretion and lowering blood glucose levels. The study of these incretin hormones has progressed substantially in recent decades, in that their systemic effects has begun to be actively discussed. In particular, incretins are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Moreover, incretins are able to improve cognitive function, suppress the formation of -amyloid plaques and provide an oncoprotective effect. Recent data show promising oncoprotective effect of GLP-1 agonists on prostate and breast cancer.
This review provides systematisation of recent data on the role and mechanisms of action of incretin hormones on carbohydrate metabolism, as well as effects not related to glucose homeostasis, which contributes to a better understanding of potential vectors for the development of incretinotropic therapy. In addition, this review offers insight into pathogenic prerequisites and highlights the current issues in creating innovative polyagonists for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
The role of selenium in the pathogenesis of thyroid disease
Authors: Troshina Ekaterina A. , Senyushkina Evgeniya S. , Terekhova Maria A.
Published: April 2019

The past few years have been actively discussing the role of individual macro- and micronutrients as factors regulating the functional activity of organs and systems and reducing the risk of developing a number of diseases, including thyroid diseases.
Selenium is one of the most important and intensively studied at present microelements. According to several studies, its low plasma level is associated with an increased risk of developing autoimmune thyroid diseases. In animal experiments, it was shown that a combined deficiency of selenium and iodine leads to more pronounced hypothyroidism than iodine deficiency alone. Some authors believe that cretinism in the newborn is a consequence of the combined deficiency of these two elements in the mother. It is also important that the optimal level of selenium is necessary both to initiate an immune response and to regulate an excessive immune response, as well as chronic inflammation.
The review article discusses the relationship between selenium and thyroid pathology, discusses the role of selenium in the physiology of the thyroid gland and in the development of autoimmune diseases. The biochemical aspects of the pathogenesis of thyroid disease are presented.
Entwürfe und Gefüge
Authors: Maar Kirsten
Published: April 2019

Das Potenzial von Choreographie und Architektur liegt im Entwerfen von Schauplätzen und Handlungsräumen. In dieser Hinsicht sind beide nicht als abgeschlossene Werke zu denken, sondern als dynamische Gefüge von Körpern und Räumlichkeit. Kirsten Maars Studie nimmt die choreographischen Arbeiten William Forsythes seit 2003 in den Blick und kontextualisiert sie durch Verfahren des Entwerfens in der Architektur des 20. Jahrhunderts - von Buckminster Fuller über Cedric Price bis hin zu Nikolaus Hirsch. So werden raumanalytische Verfahren herausgearbeitet, die in den Entgrenzungsbewegungen zwischen den Künsten operativ werden. Choreographie und Architektur werden dabei als Praxen sichtbar, die zwischen Notation, Konzeption und deren Aktualisierung oszillieren und Körper, Objekte und Betrachter im Raum je neu organisieren.
Situated Between Cultures
Authors: Ott Michaela
Published: April 2019

Michaela Ott widmet sich in ihrem kulturwissenschaftlich-philosophischen Beitrag den Filmen des in Beirut lebenden Filmemachers Ghassan Salhab. Das Spezifische seiner mehr als 15 Essay- und Spielfilme, die in den letzten fünfundzwanzig Jahren entstanden sind, liegt in ihrem für das Thema der Übersetzung und Situierung interessanten kompositkulturellen Charakter. Salhab, im Senegal geboren, im Libanon aufgewachsen, in der französischen Sprache und Kultur zuhause und allgemein an westlicher Philosophie interessiert, gefällt sich in der ästhetischen Mischung und Überlagerung kulturdivergenter Äußerungen insbesondere in seinen Essayfilmen. Er bezieht die Fragestellungen seiner Filme direkt aus der Gegenüberstellung verbaler und visueller Sprachen aus verschiedenen Herkunftsbereichen, aus deren Abweichung bis hin zur Schlussfolgerung von deren Unübersetzbarkeit. Die Situiertheit seiner filmischen Narrative im kriegserschütterten und traumatisierten libanesischen Milieu bei gleichzeitiger anderskultureller Orientierung der Protagonisten und zusätzlich eingestreuten Zitaten aus anderskulturellen Bereichen lässt Themen wie Identitätsverlust und personale Vereinsamung auffällig häufig wiederkehren. In der philosophischen Behandlung und Verallgemeinerung dieser conditio humana gelangt er zu reizvollen filmästhetischen Lösungen, die die Übersetzungsproblematik weiter akzentuieren. Michaela Ott bietet zur begrifflichen Fassung der vieldirektionalen kulturellen Teilhaben und ihrer exemplarisch zu lesenden Amalgamierung zu einer eigenwilligen Filmästhetik den Begriff ästhetischer und kultureller Dividuationen an.
Bewegte Zugänge zu musikalischem Erleben
Authors: Henning Ina
Published: April 2019

Ina Henning will in ihrem Beitrag aufzeigen, dass der niederschwellige Zugang zu Bewegung in inklusiven Kontexten zu einer neuen Form der verkörperten Teilhabe führen kann. Der Auseinandersetzung mit Körperlichkeit in der Musik wird in wissenschaftlichen Diskursen jüngst mehr Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt. Es wird verdeutlicht, dass es auf der Subjektebene gewinnbringend ist, sich mit elementaren Bewegungsformen zu beschäftigen, um einen wertneutralen Zugang jenseits von Stereotypen anzuregen. Unter diesem Blickwinkel werden Ergebnisse der künstlerischen Forschung für die Interaktion von Bewegung und Musik im Musikunterricht pädagogisch nutzbar gemacht.
Versuch über eine Musikdidaktik der Differenz
Authors: Oberschmidt Jürgen
Published: April 2019

Jürgen Oberschmidt geht im Rahmen seines Beitrags der Frage nach, ob Schule und gerade auch der Musikunterricht so gestaltet ist, dass man der Einladung zur Teilhabe gerne folgt. Geredet wird dabei von Inklusion oft als einer gesellschaftlichen Utopie, der ihr utopischer Charakter geraubt wird, weil sie der Wirklichkeit verordnet wird. Im Beitrag werden Momente einer homodoxen Pädagogik unter Bezugnahme auf Hans Wocken (2010) herausgearbeitet, die gerade auch für Musikunterricht und musikdidaktische Konzepte gelten. Aufgrund dieser wenig lockenden Ausgangslage werden Perspektiven aufgezeigt, wie Musikunterricht gestaltet werden müsste, damit Inklusion gelingen kann.
Augenzeugenschaft als Konzept
Authors: Hattendorff Claudia
Published: April 2019

Claudia Hattendorff diskutiert in der Einleitung vier Aspekte, die von grundsätzlicher Relevanz für die Untersuchung des Konzeptes »Augenzeugenschaft« in Kunst und visueller Kultur der Moderne sind: Diskurse anderer Fachdisziplinen zum Thema Augenzeugenschaft; die kunsthistorische und kunstwissenschaftliche Forschung, die für diesen Bereich bislang geleistet wurde; eine vorläufige Definition des zu erforschenden Phänomens; schließlich eine Begründung für die Wahl des Untersuchungszeitraums 18. bis 21. Jahrhundert. Ein fünfter und letzter Abschnitt greift gezielt den 14 Fallstudien dieses Bandes vor und charakterisiert deren Verständnis von Augenzeugenschaft: als durch historische Kontexte je anders geformte Akte der Authentifizierung innerhalb des Systems Kunst und im Rahmen unterschiedlicher Forschungsdiskurse, vor allem aber in einem Spannungsfeld, das Künstler und Künstlerinnen, Werke stabiler und ephemerer Natur sowie Betrachter und Betrachterinnen bilden.
Postfotografische Konzepte für die Augenzeugenschaft
Authors: Brückle Wolfgang
Published: April 2019

Wolfgang Brückle behandelt in seinem Beitrag künstlerische Aneignungen von Ergebnissen teilautomatisierter fotografischer Aufzeichnung der Wirklichkeit. Andrew Hammerands und Jules Spinatschs Benutzung von Netzwerk-Kameras und die Übertragung von Daten aus Google Street View in Bilderserien bei Doug Rickard und Jon Rafman stehen im Mittelpunkt der Erörterung, die von einer grundsätzlichen Bestimmung der Vermittelbarkeit von Augenzeugenschaft ihren Ausgang nimmt und dabei bis auf Francisco Goya zurückgeht.
»Werden Sie Teil einer atemberaubenden Performance«
Authors: Beißwanger Lisa
Published: April 2019

Lisa Beißwanger untersucht in ihrem Beitrag ein Phänomen, das derzeit in den großen Kunstmuseen der Welt Konjunktur zu haben scheint: Historische Sammlungen werden durch »lebendige« Performanceveranstaltungen gerahmt und damit temporär neu kontextualisiert. Am konkreten Beispiel der Inszenierung »Ganymed Female« (2017) im Kunsthistorischen Museum Wien und mit einem durch das Konzept der Augenzeugenschaft geschärften Blick eröffnen sich dabei Perspektiven auf eine zeitgenössische Ausprägung der Inszenierung von Betrachter*innenerfahrungen durch das Museum. Die Autorin argumentiert, dass solche Veranstaltungen eine Reaktion der Museen auf spezifische Herausforderungen im Zeitalter von Digitalisierung, Eventkultur und einer zum Imperativ avancierten Institutionenkritik seien und damit letztlich eine Legitimierungsstrategie des (westlichen) Kunstmuseums im 21. Jahrhundert.
Liebe und Konsum
Authors: Opp Annemarie
Published: April 2019

Liebe und Konsum, zwei der prägendsten Phänomene der Moderne und Postmoderne, galten lange Zeit als unvereinbare Gegensätze. Ausgehend von sozialwissenschaftlichen Studien, die die enge Verbindung von Liebe und Konsum aufarbeiten, macht Annemarie Opp nun diesen Zusammenhang erstmals für literaturwissenschaftliche Fragestellungen fruchtbar. Wie also steht es um den Konsum im Ursprungsmedium der romantischen Liebe? Anhand detailreicher, kulturwissenschaftlich fundierter Textanalysen zeigt die Studie die spezifisch ästhetische und poetische Verhandlung von Liebe und Konsum in den Romanen Émile Zolas, F. Scott Fitzgeralds, David Wagners, Christoph Peters' und Daniel Glattauers auf.
Menschenwürde und die vielen Rationalitäten des Seins
Authors: Lamker Christian
Published: April 2019

»Jeder Mensch, der existiert, existiert zwingend irgendwo.« Würde, Eigentum und die Nutzung von Räumen sind eng verbunden. Im Gespräch von Christian Lamker mit Benjamin Davy werden wesentliche Schnittstellen herausgearbeitet und kritische Fragen entwickelt. Der Beitrag leitet hin zur Raumgebundenheit menschlicher Existenz und den Anforderungen, die sich daraus für das Zusammenleben aller Menschen begründen.
Orte des würdigen Sterbens
Authors: Haltaufderheide Joschka
Published: April 2019

Die Alltagswirklichkeit, in der die für jeden Menschen einmalige Erfahrung des Sterbens gemacht wird, nennt man Sterbekultur. Gerold Eppler ist stellvertretender Leiter des Museums für Sepulkralkultur in Kassel. Gemeinsam mit dem Philosophen und Medizinethiker Joschka Haltaufderheide erkundet er im Gespräch die Geschichte der letzten Lebensräume. Die Gesprächspartner schlagen dabei einen Bogen von der Aufklärung bis in die Gegenwart und denken über die Frage nach, wie sich die Vorstellung von Würde mit der Zeit verändert - und sich in unterschiedlichen räumlichen Arrangements im Sterben verwirklicht.
Vergangenheit. Bewältigung. Vergangenheitsbewältigung.
Authors: Reifenberger Jürgen
Published: April 2019

Bewertung und Aufarbeitung vergangener Gewalt sind inzwischen feste Bestandteile operativer Politik und ideologischer Kämpfe. Doch trotz aller Bemühungen erscheint die Zahl heutiger Konflikte im historischen Vergleich unverändert hoch - ein Indiz dafür, dass die Voraussetzungen nachhaltiger Bewältigung noch immer nicht verstanden sind. Ebenfalls ist ungeklärt, was Vergangenheit überhaupt umfasst und in welchem Wirkungsverhältnis früher entstandene - gleichwohl andauernde - Prozesse, Strukturen und Muster zur jeweiligen Gegenwart stehen. Jürgen Reifenberger liefert eine systemische und umfassende politische Theorie, die die derzeit weit verbreitete punktuelle und oberflächliche Perspektive auf einzelne Symptome überwindet.
Portfolio jako narzędzie kształcenia refleksyjności przyszłych nauczycieli języków obcych
Authors: Witkowska Magdalena
Published: April 2019

Being a reflective teacher is a highly appreciated quality of a good teacher. Reflection is considered to be essential in the job of teaching since it prompts to modify and improve the process of teaching and learning. As experts suggest reflective skills can be practiced and developed due to various teacher education models, programs and techniques. One of the techniques is a teacher portfolio that can consist of many tasks provoking teachers and teacher-trainees to reflect on their teaching. This article presents some research on the content of English teacher-trainees’ reflection and their metareflection. The research outcome provides some knowledge of what they reflect upon, if they do at all, and whether they perceive reflectionas valuable in the process of learning teaching.
Pieśni bożonarodzeniowe w luterańskim kancjonale toruńskim
Authors: Kamper-Warejko Joanna
Published: April 2019

The outline addresses the set of songs included in one of the editions of the Toruń cantional by Petrus Artomius (1601). The small extract of the text provided the opportunity to grasp the range and nature of the changes taking places in the Old Polish language when the Polish culture was affected by the Reformation. For this reason, the author attempted to indicate the origin of the works and to trace the edition modifications introduced in the text with particular emphasis on linguistic alterations. In the cantional there appear texts rooted in the Polish Catholic tradition of religious songs (e.g. XVII, XX, XXI, XXVI, XXVII), translations of Protestant carols of Martin Luther known from earlier songbooks (e.g. XXX, XXXII, XXXVI); however, they are often new, modified versions of the songs. In comparison with the first edition of the cantional, the discussed edition was somewhat reorganized, which may be observed in the editor’s attempt to modernize the language of the songs. On the basis of the presented description of philological- stylistic nature one may conclude that the language of the old Protestant community of Toruń did not differ significantly from the Old Polish language of the time. On the one hand, the texts included in the cantional refer to medieval songs stylistically and linguistically. On the other hand, they illustrate the popularity and universality of Polish songs used in religious practices of Protestants, not only Lutherans.
Noise Reduction Using Modified Wiener Filter in Digital Hearing Aid for Speech Signal Enhancement
Authors: Kumar Madam Aravind , Chari Kamsali Manjunatha
Published: April 2019

Speech signals are usually affected by noises during the communication process. For suppressing the noise signal that is combined with the speech signal, a Wiener filter is adapted in digital hearing aids. Weiner filter plays an important role in noise suppression and enhancement by estimating the relation between the power spectra of the noise-affected speech signal and the noise signal. Power consumption and the hardware requirement are the important problems in adapting Weiner filter for major communication systems. In this work, we implemented an efficient Wiener filter and applied it for noise suppression along with a real-valued fast Fourier transform (FFT)/real-valued inverse FFT processor in digital hearing aids. The pipelined process was adopted for increasing the performance of the system. The proposed Wiener filter was designed to remove the iteration problems in the conventional Wiener filter. The division operation was replaced by an efficient inverse and multiplication operation in the proposed design. A modified architecture for matrix inversion with low computation complexity was implemented. The complete design computation was based on IEEE-754 standard single-precision floating-point numbers. The Wiener filter and the whole system architecture was implemented and designed on a Field Programmable Gate Array platform and simulated to validate the results in Xilinx ISE tools. An efficient reduction in power and area was obtained by adapting the proposed method for speech signal noise degradation. The performance of the proposed design was found to be 50.01% more efficient than that of existing designs.
Performance Analysis of Duobinary and AMI Techniques Using LG Modes in Hybrid MDM-WDM-FSO Transmission System
Authors: Zhou Zhenlei , Li Erkai , Zhang Haiguang
Published: April 2019

This work is focused on transmission of duobinary and alternate mark inversion (AMI) modulation, adopting mode division multiplexing (MDM) of Laguerre Gaussian (LG) modes has been capitalized in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) system, resulting in a 1.6 Gbps eight-channel free space optical communications (FSO) system. The simulation results show that duobinary offers better bit error rate (BER) performance compared to AMI for proposed hybrid MDM-WDM-FSO system.
Phase Transformations «Amorphization ↔ Crystallization» In Metallic Materials Induced by Severe Plastic Deformation
Authors: Sundeev R.V. , Glezer A. M. , Shalimova A. V.
Published: April 2019

In this review we are considered systematically the phenomenon of deformation-induced phase transformations from crystalline intermetallic compounds and complex phases to amorphous state and vice versa phase transformations from amorphous state to crystalline one upon severe plastic deformation at different temperatures. The nature and structural features of these transitions essentially for high pressure torsion deformation are analyzed in the frame of basic principles of nonequilibrium thermodynamics. The effects of phase cycling and a stationary amorphous - nanocrystalline state formation at significant deformations is discussed in details.
Stress-Driven Migration of Low-Angle Grain Boundaries Near Crack Tips in Nanocomposites Containing Incoherent Nanoinclusions
Authors: Bobylev S.V. , Galeeva L.-S.D.
Published: April 2019

Theoretical model describing stress-driven migration of low-angle grain boundaries (GBs) in the vicinity of growing crack in metal matrix nanocomposites with reinforcing (metallic or ceramic) incoherent nanoinclusions is proposed. Using two-dimensional discrete dislocation dynamics approach profiles of migrating GBs are analytically calculated and critical stress for transition into unstable migration mode is found. It is shown that the presence of crack always promotes stress-driven migration and thus grain growth.