bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STUDY OF CALCIUM, PHOSPHORUS AND ACID PHOSPHATASE IN PRE-AND POST-MENOPAUSAL WOMEN
Authors: Bhadarge Gangaram , ZG Badade , Kadam Rahul
Published: May 2020

Introduction: More than 75 million individuals overall experience the ill effects of osteoporosis of which 80 % for example 44 million are postmenopausal ladies. Osteoporosis is second just to cardiovascular disease as a main medicinal services issue, as per the World Health Organization. Around the world, the lifetime hazard for ladies to have an osteoporotic break is 30 – 40%. Menopauseis one of the most significant physiological occasions; it is identified with the suspension of ovarian capacity and the finish of conceptive cycle. The occurrence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal ladies keeps on expanding with continuously maturing populaces. Pre-menopause refers to a ladies' regenerative or rich life, from the main menstrual period to the last. Post-menopause is characterized as the time after menopause, in any event one year without a period. Osteoporosisis a dynamic infection which prompts the exhaustion in the bone structure with loss of bone mineral thickness (BMD) expanding the hazard factor of breaks throughout the years. High danger of creating osteoporosis is described by low BMD and shows a disintegration of the smaller scale engineering with the BMD is the consequence of a harmony between bone resorption because of osteoclasts and bone arrangement because of osteoblasts, during an on-going renovating process.

Aim: Study of Calcium, Phosphorus, Acid Phosphatase and BMD T score in Pre-and Post-Menopausal Women.

Material and Methods: The present study includes total 100 subjects that include

50 pre-menopausal women (age 35 to 45 years) and 50 post -menopause women (age 46 to 60 years).  Blood samples were collected from the subjects were obtained for Calcium, Phosphorus and Acid Phosphatase from Medicine /Orthopaedics/ Obstetrics and Gynaecology Wards.

Conclusion: Menopause is one of the most significant physiological occasions: it is identified with the end of ovarian capacity and the finish of conceptive cycle. The rate of osteoporosis in postmenopausal ladies keeps on expanding with continuously maturing populaces. Pre-menopause alludes to a lady's regenerative or prolific life, from the principal menstrual period to the last. Post-menopause is the time after menopause, in any event one year without a period. Beginning stage of menopause builds hazard for some postmenopausal wellbeing inconveniences, for example, osteoporosis, ischemic ailment, and ovarian malignancy, though later menopause is a hazard factor for endometrial and bosom disease.

Abbreviation: Menopause, Osteoporosis, BMD T score, Calcium, Phosphorus, Acid phosphatase.
CONSTRAINT INDUCED MOVEMENT THERAPY FOR MOTOR RECOVERY IN CHRONIC STROKE PATIENT IN RURAL INDIA
Authors: Gugnani Anchit
Published: May 2020

A possible explanation for the substantial remaining motor deficits in stroke patients might be the occurrence of learned nonuse, a phenomenon first described by Taub. Stroke patients who initially attempt to use the affected extremity find themselves unable to do so because the process of spontaneous recovery of function has not yet proceeded sufficiently far. This results in the experience of failure or punishment for attempts to move the extremity and in positive reinforcement for compensatory movements by the unaffected extremity-a learning process that might be supported by the teaching of compensatory activity during rehabilitation.

Keywords: CIMT, Motor recovery, Stroke patients
A STUDY ON THE CLINICAL PROFILE AND OUTCOME OF CHILDREN WITH SCORPION STING IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL JHALAWAR, RAJASTHAN
Authors: Meena Kalu Ram , Bansal Abhishek , Dagal K. C.
Published: May 2020

Background: Scorpion sting envenomation is a life threatening emergency in tropical and subtropical countries with a potential of severe and often fatal clinical manifestations among children.

Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care centre in Jhalawar (Rajasthan) over a period from 1 April 2019 to 30 Sept. 2019. Total 26 children admitted with a history of scorpion sting were included in this study. 

Results: With regard to severity, 7 (26.92%), 15 (57.69%), and 4 (15.38%) patients were classified into classes I, II and III, respectively. The duration of hospitalization ranged from 1 to 5 days with mean hospitalization stay of 2.36 ±1.2 days. The duration was longer in younger children and the patients who reported to the hospital very late.  All patients were discharged after complete recovery.

Conclusion: Scorpion sting envenomation is a common medical emergency among children. It is common in rural areas and among boys. The site of sting was predominantly in the lower limbs and during nights of summer season.

Keywords: Scorpion sting, Children, Rural.
MECONIUM STAINED AMNIOTIC FLUID AND ITS NEONATAL OUTCOME IN A RURAL TERTIARY CARE CENTER NEAR MATHURA
Authors: Puria Nitin Gyaras , Dutta Krishna Pada
Published: May 2020

The presence of meconium stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) is a sign of fetal compromise. It is associated with significant neonatal morbidity and mortality. MSAF is frequently associated with high cesarean rate, prolonged labour,low APGAR scores, increased rate of birth asphyxia; increased NICU admission, meconium aspiration syndrome and neonatal death. The aim of this prospective study is to correlate the effect of meconium stained amniotic fluid on neonatal outcome.

Keywords: Meconium stained amniotic fluid, Neonatal morbidity and mortality, NICU.
A STUDY OF SERUM FERRITIN LEVEL IN PATIENTS OF STROKE AS A PROGNOSTIC MARKER
Authors: Chauhan Daulat Singh , Agarwal Mahendra Kumar
Published: May 2020

Background: Stroke/cerebrovascular accident (CVA) is the second most common cause of mortality after coronary artery disease (CAD). Amongst all neurological diseases, stroke ranks first in frequency and importance. In India, the scenario is no different, its incidence and prevalence are on a steady rise. To evaluate the concentration of serum ferritin in patients of acute stroke as a prognostic marker.

Methods: This was a hospital based observational and cross sectional study conducted on 60 cases of acute stroke as per seed article having minimum difference of mean (f ferritin level) 365 and 145.43 for 80% power and 0.05 alpha error.

Results: Out of 34 cases of haemorrhagic cases 13 cases mortality was observed while 14 cases had deteriorated outcome and 15 cases improved. Mean serum ferritin of dead, deteriorate and improved haemorrhagic cases was 1169±114.28, 723.07±88.07 and 107.43±26.80. Serum ferritin level was abnormal [raised] in all 22[36%] death cases and 24[40%] cases who had deteriorate.

Conclusion: Elevated serum ferritin is strongly associated with early neurological deterioration in patients of stroke and is a definite poor prognostic marker of acute stroke [ ischemic or haemorrhagic] an elevated serum ferritin (A marker of iron stores) herald more intensive management protocols and care for the patient as it can predict early neurological deterioration. Iron chelation therapy in acute stroke seems to be a strong theoretical possibility and further studies are required to investigate its role in treatment of stroke.

Keywords: Stroke, Prognostic Marker, Elevated serum ferritin
基于绿色理念的建筑施工技术分析
Authors: 钟 荥
Published: May 2020

绿色建筑施工技术有利于实现经济与社会可持续发展,在建筑项目施工中应用这一技术,是生态环保理念的重要实践。基于此,本文先论述了绿色建筑施工的内涵与意义,然后具体分析了绿色理念下的建筑施工技术。
测绘新技术在建筑工程测量中的应用
Authors: 冉 梓良
Published: May 2020

对于建筑工程而言,测量工作是确保工程质量的基础性保障,其中,测绘技术可以说在建筑工程测量质量中是一项极为关键的参考标准。在科学技术日新月异的今天,建筑行业中各类测绘技术如雨后春笋般出现,更多的测绘新技术运用进来,从而使得工程测量的精准度大大提高。接下来,本文围绕测绘新技术在建筑工程测量中的应用进行浅述,望具有一定的参考借鉴价值。
建筑工程施工现场管理探讨
Authors: 仲 彦彦
Published: May 2020

建筑工程施工现场管理是建筑施工管理中的核心管理,现场管理是一项系统又繁琐的工作,它体现了建筑企业的施工管理的综合水平。加强施工现场管理,不仅能有效的缩短工期、保证工程质量、降低施工安全风险,而且还能提高施工企业在建筑行业中的竞争力,获得更高的经济效益和社会效益。目前,仍有许多建筑企业采用传统的现场管理模式,没有向现代化的现场管理模式进行转变。本文讲述了现场管理的重要性、现场管理应遵循的基本原则、目前的管理现状以及解决措施,以此来促进施工现场管理水平的提高。
简论工程测绘质量控制策略
Authors: 徐 振杰
Published: May 2020

近年来,我国当前经济建设的快速发展,人民生活水平稳步提高,社会各界对于土地资源的需求也日益增加。在这种局 势下,加强土地资源测绘工作显得尤为重要。为了适应社会发展和人民生活的需要,我们借助现代管理手段加强测绘工作,促进土地资源的合理开发利用。本文通过分析工程测绘工作在当前存在的问题,结合实际工作的需求,分析提高测绘质量的方法。
基于点荷载试验的混凝土强度快速测定与评价方法
Authors: 柳 覃欣 , 汪 钰浩 , 程 康 , 陈 勇 , 刘 庆庆 , 张 琳琳 , 陶 云培
Published: May 2020

点荷载强度试验(PLT)是岩石力学中的一种简单而广泛的用于预测岩石抗压强度的试验方法,但在预测混凝土抗压强度方面是一种较新的方法。本项目通过不同强度等级混凝土试件的点荷载强度和单轴抗压强度试验,对试验数据进行回归分析,建立混凝土的点荷载强度和单轴抗压强度相关性的经验方程；通过误差分析,对该方程的准确性和可靠性进行分析评价。在此基础上,提出利用点荷载进行混凝土强度快速测定以及评价的步骤和方法。
三生融合视角下产业型乡村空间重构研究
Authors: 仝 潇 , 董 元平 , 秦 方
Published: May 2020

随着国家政策的指引和乡村内部发展的现实需求,乡村的生产生活生态备受关注。文章基于三生融合视角,分析河南省产业型乡村的基本类型,选取研究类型,提出产业型乡村进行空间重构的必要性,探求生产-生态融合、生活-生态融合、生产-生活融合的乡村空间重构策略,通过对产业型乡村三生空间进行融合性重构来引导产业的转型发展和空间的优化重组。
市政给排水管道施工中的常见问题及解决措施
Authors: 刘 娇娇
Published: May 2020

人们对于水的需求随着社会不断的发展而日趋增多,在生活中所用的水都是市政给排水所提供的。由于中国的城市化进程加快,越来越多的市政给排水工程出现,而其占据着极为重要的地位。由于人们生产生活直接受制于给排水工程的质量,因此人们越来越关注其质量的好坏。而给排水工程最为重要的工作就是给排水管道的施工。因此,本文对给排水管道施工的常见问题进行分析,并给出相应措施。
全过程造价管理在建筑工程管理中的应用分析
Authors: 张 洪程
Published: May 2020

在建筑工程管理中有一项非常重要的内容就是造价管理,对于整个工程的成本投入而言,其管理质量有着很重要的影响,同时它也十分影响施工质量。同时,它与企业自身的经济效益息息相关。所以,对全过程造价管理在建筑工程管理的时间范围内的应用进行了分析。
无保护等级历史建筑的低成本改造更新策略研究——以天津原日租界储汇邨为例
Authors: 刘 晓宇 , 车 光朴
Published: May 2020

在中国城市发展的过程中,历史文化街区及历史建筑的保护与更新是一个受到多方重视的问题。但是在历史文化街区中,没有被划分到核心保护范围的历史建筑在城市建设中正处于尴尬的处境。这类历史建筑或是在简单地整修之后继续投入使用,或是在无规划限制的情况下被推倒重建,此时城市肌理的延续性和历史建筑的价值被破坏。本文以对天津原日租界储汇邨进行改造为例,提出无保护等级历史建筑的更新策略,主要以国内现有的建筑规范为标准,参考国内外的建筑改造更新技术手段,尝试在低成本的前提下,探讨在防火、节能及结构稳定三方面对储汇邨进行改造的可能。最终实现无保护等级历史建筑的低成本改造更新。
建筑工程管理及施工质量控制的对策
Authors: 李 榛伟
Published: May 2020

文章从工程管理与施工质量控制的重要性开始谈起,阐述工程管理的具体内容,并提出有效的质量控制措施,旨在提高工程建设质量,推动建筑行业的良性发展。
水文地质工程地质环境地质的科技发展趋势分析
Authors: 李 静
Published: May 2020

目前我国经济社会不断发展,各行各业的发展也都受到了一定影响,各种地质工程的发展也因此而受到了更加广泛的关注,为了提高地质工程的质量和效率,促进水文地质工程地质环境地质的科技发展,需要不断进行完善才能得到更好的提升。本文主要研究水文地质工程地质环境地质的科技发展趋势,根据目前的实际状况展开分析,希望对于水文地质工程地质环境地质的发展具有促进作用。
论水利水电工程施工安全管理与控制
Authors: 唐 小帅
Published: May 2020

为切实提升水利水电工程施工安全性,对施工中的每项环节进行安全管理十分必要。目前正处于我国经济飞速发展时期,为确保发展条件得到最大发展和满足,水利水电工程的发展更应该牢牢跟上社会脚步。但是目前水利水电工程建设仍然存在很多问题,严重影响了工程安全管控和发展。为此,本文就将对水利水电工程的安全管理和控制问题展开详细研究,希望对我国工程项目的长远发展提供必要帮助和指导作用。
提高水利水电工程施工质量管理的意义和途径
Authors: 唐 小帅
Published: May 2020

作为我国重要的基础性产业,水利水电工程的重要性在近年来社会发展中不断提升,工程施工过程中具备良好的技术手段,可以保证施工质量和标准充分满足我国基础设施建设,对于经济建设和发展可以起到良好的推动性作用。但是基于近年来水利水电项目的增加,我国水电工程施工技术的标准和要求也不断提升。这也要求工程管理人员要进一步加强对施工质量的管理,为施工项目的稳定发展和运行提供必要帮助。
测绘新技术在测绘工程中的应用分析
Authors: 曾 献根
Published: May 2020

由于经济发展不断迅猛,在测绘工程中,测绘新技术应用逐渐广泛,因为工程建设质量与测绘数据有着直接的关系,所以为了将工程建设的工程质量有效的保障,就要将测绘工程测量数据的精准度有效的提高。因此,本文对工程测量中,测绘新技术的实践以及应用进行了分析。
BIM技术在航道整治工程中的应用
Authors: 向 程
Published: May 2020

航道整治工程指的是利用整治建筑物来对水流进行调整和控制,以此来稳定河势、改善航道航行条件的工程措施。在航道治理工程中引入BIM技术,其目的是利用BIM技术来推动航道整治工程管理工作向信息化、数据化发展,最终达到提高航道整治工程安全质量和管理水平的目的。本文对BIM技术在航道整治工程中的技术应用进行了探讨和分析,以期提高我国航道整治工程的管理水平。
Hubungan Motivasi Belajar Dengan Prestasi Akademik Siswa Pada Mata Pelajaran Biologi di Kelas X SMA Negeri Insana Tengah Maubesi
Authors: Nahak Febiana Y , Kristanti E , Oetpah Finsensius
Published: May 2020

Research with the title Relationship of Student Motivation and Academic Achievement in Biology Subjects in Class X Middle Insana Middle School, Maubesi aims to find out the magnitude of student motivation in biology, to determine the level of student academic achievement and see how much the role of motivation on academic achievement the student. The data analysis technique used in this research is Product Moment Correlation. The results showed that the average student motivation in Biology in Class X Middle Insan Maubesi SMAN was 144.82 with the highest value of 185 and the lowest value obtained was 97, included in the HIGH category, while the average academic achievement of students in Biology class X in Middle Maubesi Middle School of 80.72 with the highest score of 92 and the lowest value of 75, included in the very high category. The results of the Produck Moment analysis show that there is no significant relationship between motivation and academic achievement of students in Biology class X at SMAN Insana Tengah Maubesi with a correlation coefficient of 0.053 included in the very low category.
The Analysis of Spiritual and Social Attitudes in the Science-Biology Learning Process of students Class VIII of SMPN 20 Padang
Authors: Puspitasari Winda , Anhar Azwir , Zulyusri Zulyusri , Ristiono Ristiono
Published: May 2020

The attitude assessment of the 2013 curriculum is needed to prepare a moral and civilized generation by following the objectives of this curriculum. This study aims to determine the spiritual and social attitudes in the Science-Biology learning process of students Class VIII SMPN 20 Padang. aspects observed are 1)respecting and soulful the teachings of the religion they hold, 2)honest, 3)discipline 4)responsibility, 5)polite, 6)self-confidence, 7)caring. This type of research is descriptive research. Data collection using questionnaires and observation sheets then conducted a percentage analysis to determine the average score obtained from the two assessment techniques. The Data obtained will be shown through images. The result of this research is the assesement of spiritual and social attitudes during the learning process of Sciences-Biology learning process of students Class VIII of SMPN 20 Padang have a good criteria. Spiritual attitude of students Class VIII of SMPN 20 Padang have a good  criteria in the aspect of respecting and soulful the teachings of the religion they hold. Social attitudes of students Class VIII of SMPN 20 Padang have a good criteria on the five aspects of attitudes observed, such as 1) discipline, 2) responsibility, 3) polite, 4) self-confidence, and 5) caring, while one other aspect of attitude have a enough criteria, namely aspects of honest attitude.
Analisis Struktur Vegetasi Mangrove Tingkat Tiang di Pantai Wesuma Desa Litamali Kecamatan Kobalima Kabupaten Malaka
Authors: Alan Hildegardis Bete
Published: May 2020

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui jenis-jenis, struktur vegetasi mangrove tingkat tiang yang terdapat di Pantai Wesuma, Desa Litamali, Kecamatan Kobalima, Kabupaten Malaka.  Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kuadrat dan plot dengan cara menarik garis transek yang tegak lurus memotong topografi hutan. Pada setiap transek diletakan plot-plot pengamatan dengan ukuran 10 m x 10 m jarak antara plot 20 m. Pencatatan dilakukan yaitu pada setiap plot dicatat jenis tumbuhan mangrove tingkat tiang yang ditemukan dan jumlah individu setiap jenis untuk mengetahui struktur vegetasi mangrove. Hasil penelitian ditemukan sebanyak 7 (tujuh) jenis tumbuhan mangrove tingkat tiang yang terdiri dari 3 jenis mangrove utama dan 4 jenis mangrove asosiasi dari 5 famili. Berdasarkan  INP dari yang tertinggi sampai terendah adalah Rhizophora mucronata P. 69,15%, Rhizophora stylosa Griff 66,1%, Rhizophora apiculata L. 58,62%, Terminalia catappa L. 30,77%, Ziziphus mauritiana S. 29,02%, Pandanus odorifer L. 24,52%, Casuarina equisetifolio L. 21,63%.
Factores asociados a la desnutrición en La Guajira, Colombia.
Authors: Alvis Zakzuk Nelson Jose , Castañeda Orjuela Carlos , Díaz Jiménez Diana , De la Hoz Restrepo Fernando
Published: May 2020

La desnutrición infantil produce daños físicos e irreversibles en la capacidad cognitiva, trastornos del crecimiento, retrasos motores y cognitivos, disminución de la inmunidad y un aumento de la morbilidad y mortalidad. Este estudio estimó los factores asociados a la desnutrición en menores de cinco años en La Guajira, Colombia. Se realizó un análisis multivariado de corte transversal, a partir de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud Nutricional (ENSIN). Se estimó un modelo logit sobre los determinantes de la desnutrición global. La variable dependiente se construyó como el peso para la edad menor a dos desviaciones estándar. Se estimaron Odds Ratio (OR) ajustados por pesos muestrales para evaluar el riesgo de las variables independientes con sus valores de referencias. Entre los principales hallazgos, se estudiaron 622 niños menores de cinco años de La Guajira, de los cuales 52,7% fueron hombres y 55% vivían en zona rural. El 11,2% de los niños presenta desnutrición global. Ser el sexto hijo o posterior representa un mayor riesgo de desnutrición global (OR=4,07, IC95%=1,50–10,99), mientras que habitar viviendas con servicio de alcantarillado los protege de sufrir este tipo de desnutrición (OR=0,16, IC95%=0,05–0,57). No contar con servicio de alcantarillado y pertenecer a una familia numerosa resultan siendo características de contexto que se asocian con un mayor riesgo de desnutrición infantil en esta región. Afectar estos determinantes sociales permitirá hacer más eficiente la política de vigilancia y control de la desnutrición en este grupo etario.
Hubungan Riwayat Pola Menyusui, Usia Penyapihan dan Emotional Bonding terhadap Status Gizi pada Balita
Authors: Habo Abbas Hasriwiani , Wulandari Nur Alifah , Lestari Ayu , Burhanuddin Nurfardiansyah
Published: May 2020

Kualitas manusia merupakan paduan yang serasi selaras dan seimbang antara fisik, mental (rohani) dan sosial. Salah satu determinan kualitas manusia adalah terpenuhinya kebutuhan gizi yang diperoleh melalui konsumsi pangan yang mengandung zat gizi yang dibutuhkan manusia. Zat gizi mempunyai dimensi penting dalam pembangunan terutama peningkatan kualitas sumber daya manusia. Penelitian bertujuan menganalisis faktor yang berhubungan dengan emotional bonding terhadap status gizi pada Anak Balita Di Kelurahan Bontorannu Kecamatan Mariso Kota Makassar. Jenis Peneltian adalah observasional analitik dengan pendekatan crosektional study, dilaksanakan di Kelurahan Bontorannu Kecamatan Mariso Kota Makassar, Pemilihan tempat dan sampel dilakukan secara non random sampling :purposive sampling” yakni keluarga Kelurahan Bontorannu yang memiliki anak Balita sebanyak 150 sampel.

Hasil penelitian menujukkan status gizi kurang balita sebanyak 90 balita (60%), sedangkan status gizi balita yang cukup 60 balita (40%), ada hubungan riwayat pola menyusui terhadap status gizi dimana p=0,000 < α=0,05 dengan jumlah balita dengan riwayat pola menyusui kurang 66.7% dan cukup sebanyak 33.3%. Usia penyapihan balita dengan kedaan kurang sebanyak 75 (83.3%), sedangkan yang cukup sebanyak 15 (16.7%).dari hasil uji statistik ada hubungan usia penyapihan dengan status gizi balita. Untuk emotional bonding tidak aman sebanyak 36 anak balita (17.3%) dan yang aman sebanyak 114 anak balita (82.7%). Dari hasil uji statistik di peroleh ada hubungan emotional bonding terhadap status gizi balita dimana p=0,000 < α=0,05. Kehangatan  yang muncul dari pemberian ASI dalaam pola menyusui membantu mendorong dan memperkuat ikatan batin antara seorang ibu dan bayinya. Inilah cara alamiah untuk memberi makanan kepada bayi sehingga meningkatkan status gizi anak dan memberikan kedekatan emotional yang sangat kuat.
Efek Seduhan Jahe Sebagai Anti Muntah Pada Perempuan Hamil Trimester Pertama
Authors: Yanuaringsih Galuh Pradian , Nasution Ade Saputra , Aminah Siti
Published: May 2020

Kehamilan merupakan proses yang ditunggu oleh keluarga, namun pada proses kehamilan muda atau trimester pertama terjadinya perubahan fisik, psikologis maunpun hormon sehingga menyebabkan terjadinya gejala emesis gravidarum atau mual muntah yang dapat mengganggu dan membahayakan kesehatan perempuan hamil jika dibiarkan seperti terjadinya lemah, lesu, kehilangan cairan tubuh dan dapat menyebabkan terjadinya dehidrasi bahkan dapat membahayakan pertumbuhan dan perkembangan janin. Jahe yang sudah terkenal untuk bumbu masak di Indonesia memiliki manfaat lain seperti mengurangi mual muntah pada perempuan hamil, dimana jahe bersifat antiemetik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat efektivitas seduhan jahe sebagai anti muntah pada perempuan hamil trimester pertama. Penelitian ini menggunakan pre eksperiment dengan pendekatan pre test post test design yang memiliki sampel sebanyak 16 yang diambil secara accidental sampling dan data dianalisis menggunakan uji wilcoxon. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan sebelum perlakuan rata-rata muntah adalah 3.87 sedangkan setelah perlakuan rata-rata muntah adalah 1.19 artinya adanya penurunan mual muntah sesudah perlakuan dengan seduhan jahe selama tujuh hari.
Robots Application for Welding
Authors: Kafi Abdallah , Kovács Tünde Anna , Tóth László , Nyikes Zoltán
Published: May 2020

In this work, the authors give an overview of the advancement of industrial robots and show the mechanization of welding processes, step by step. As manual welding is a physically exhausting professional work, engineers have sought to improve work conditions since the industrial revolution. Unfortunately, even today, many procedures can only be performed manually. In the welding process, the highest level of mechanization is represented by the use of robotics. The entrance of Robots in the history of welding is recent, though their spread and development are rapid.
Hydroquinone-Based Fabrication of Gold Nanorods with a High Aspect Ratio and LSPR Greater than 850 nm to Be Used as a Surface Plasmon Resonance Platform for Rapid Detection of Thiophanate Methyl
Authors: Nguyen Thi Nhat Hang , Le Ngoc Thuy Trang , Thi Phuong Phong Nguyen , Nguyen Dai Hai , Nguyen-Le Minh-Tri
Published: May 2020

The use of gold nanorods (AuNRs) as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates has gained much attraction due to their remarkably aspect-ratio-dependent plasmonic properties. In this report, we described the development of AuNRs with a high aspect ratio and longitudinal surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) >850 nm through a hydroquinone-based fabrication with minor modifications. The synthesis started with the reduction of chloroauric acid (HAuCl4) by sodium borohydride (NaBH4) to make gold nanoseeds from which AuNRs were grown with the aid of silver nitrate (AgNO3), HAuCl4, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and hydroquinone (HQ). Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), Transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Ultra-violet-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) were performed to study the shape, size, and structural and optical properties of AuNRs, respectively. The results showed that AuNRs with high aspect ratios (AR > 3) were single crystals with a heterogenous size distribution, and that the growth of Au nanoseeds into AuNRs took place along the [001] direction. AuNRs exhibited two plasmon resonance peaks at 520 nm and 903 nm, while gold nanoseeds had only a plasmon resonance peak at 521 nm. The as-synthesized AuNRs also showed SERS effects for thiophanate methyl, a broad-spectrum fungicide, with the limit of detection down to 5 mg/L of the fungicide. AuNR-coated glass can serve as a SERS-based sensing platform for rapid detection of thiophanate methyl with high sensitivity and reproducibility.
An Ensemble Stochastic Forecasting Framework for Variable Distributed Demand Loads
Authors: Agyeman Kofi Afrifa , Kim Gyeonggak , Jo Hoonyeon , Park Seunghyeon , Han Sekyung
Published: May 2020

Accurate forecasting of demand load is momentous for the efficient economic dispatch of generating units with enormous economic and reliability implications. However, with the high integration levels of grid-tie generations, the precariousness in demand load forecasts is unreliable. This paper proposes a data-driven stochastic ensemble model framework for short-term and long-term demand load forecasts. Our proposed framework reduces uncertainties in the load forecast by fusing homogenous models that capture the dynamics in load state characteristics and exploit model diversities for accurate prediction. The ensemble model caters for factors such as meteorological and exogenous variables that affect load prediction accuracy with adaptable, scalable algorithms that consider weather conditions, load features, and state characteristics of the load. We defined a heuristic trained combiner model and an error correction model to estimate the contributions and compensate for forecast errors of each prediction model, respectively. Acquired data from the Korean Electric Power Company (KEPCO), and building data from the Korea Research Institute, together with testbed datasets, were used to evaluate the developed framework. The results obtained prove the efficacy of the proposed model for demand load forecasting.
A Novel Hybrid Search and Remove Strategy for Power Balance Wireless Charger Deployment in Wireless Rechargeable Sensor Networks
Authors: Lin Tu-Liang , Chang Hong-Yi , Wang Yu-Hsin
Published: May 2020

Conventional sensor nodes are often battery-powered, and battery power limits the overall lifetime of the wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Wireless charging technology can be implemented in WSNs to supply power to sensor nodes and resolve the problem of restricted battery power. This type of mixed network is called wireless rechargeable sensor networks (WRSNs). Therefore, wireless charger deployment is a crucial task in WRSNs. In this study, the method of placing wireless chargers to efficiently extend the lifetime of the WRSNs is addressed. Owing to the data forwarding effect in WSNs, sensor nodes that are closer to the data collection or sink node drain more power than nodes that are further away from the data collection or sink node. Therefore, this study proposes a novel hybrid search and removal strategy for the power balance charger deployment method. The wireless chargers are placed in the chosen nodes of the WRSNs. The node-chosen problem we address is called the dominating set problem. The proposed hybrid search and removal strategy attempts to discover the minimum number of chargers required to cover all sensor nodes in the WRSN. The proposed algorithm considers the charging power of the wireless directional charger when arranging its placement to maximize the charging capacity in a power-balanced prerequisite. Therefore, the proposed deployment strategy preserves the awareness of the presence of the sink node that could result in unbalanced power distribution in WRSNs. The simulation results show that the proposed strategy spares more chargers and achieves better energy efficiency than other deployment approaches.
Impact of Ignition Technique on Pollutants Emission during the Combustion of Selected Solid Biofuels
Authors: Kraszkiewicz Artur , Przywara Artur , Anifantis Alexandros Sotirios
Published: May 2020

Nowadays, heating using wood, briquettes, or pellets is a curious replacement to fossil fuels such as coal, oil, or gas. Unfortunately, the combustion of biofuels, especially in low-power boilers with unstable operating conditions, releases a lot of gas pollutants (e.g., carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO), and various organic compounds) that are usually generated due to the incomplete product combustion. The combustion of biofuel in grate boilers with top-down ignition is a new approach, popular in society (mainly used for coal fuels), which improves the combustion process and reduces the amount of pollutants emitted. This study evaluated the impact of ignition techniques on the emission level of gas pollutants during the combustion of wood logs, briquettes, and pellets of pine in grate-based charging boilers. The combination of top ignition mode with pinewood logs allowed us to achieve a reduction of 6% in CO and sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission into the atmosphere. However, the combination of top-down ignition mode with pellets and briquettes produced, in fully operational conditions, 1- to 18-fold higher levels of CO and SO2 respectively, than bottom-up ignition, after an initial period of low level CO and SO2 emissions. During the tests (mainly with ignition from top), substantial emissions of NO were observed of up to 400 mg·m−3 at 10% O2. Therefore, further research is required to decrease emission related to the content of nitrogen in biomass. In this respect, research of impact on the combustion temperature of such emissions is needed.
Comparative Study of the Heat and Mass Transfer Characteristics between Counter-Flow and Cross-Flow Heat Source Towers
Authors: Lv Yifei , Lu Jun , Li Yongcai , Xie Ling , Yang Lulu , Yuan Linlin
Published: May 2020

The heat source tower (HST), as a cleaner energy production, which can absorb the low-grade energy from ambient air to drive the heat pump unit without emissions has attracted more and more interest. In addition, HST has excellent economic applicability by using cooling tower equipment, which was idle in winter. However, there are few studies on comparative analysis of thermal behavior between counter-flow and cross-flow HST. A mathematical model suitable for both HST types was developed to identify the performance discrepancies between them. Then a parametric study was carried out in order to investigate the impact of solution and air as well as packing material properties on energy transfer of HSTs. Finally, the characteristics of solution dilution and dehumidification were investigated. As the inlet solution temperature increases, increases first, then decreases gradually, but a transition point occurs in the solution at −5 °C. Moreover, the transition section of moisture transfer direction for counter-flow HST was located in the 0.78 m and 0.26–1.56 m of packing material height, under the condition that the air relative humidity was 50%. In summary, this work intuitively indicates the thermal performance difference between counter-flow and cross-flow HST, also could assist the selection of proper operating conditions in HSTs.
Nutritional Quality of Plant-Based Drinks Sold in Italy: The Food Labelling of Italian Products (FLIP) Study
Authors: Angelino Donato , Rosi Alice , Vici Giorgia , Dello Russo Marika , Pellegrini Nicoletta , Martini Daniela ,   on behalf of the SINU Young Working Group
Published: May 2020

Plant-based drinks represent a heterogeneous class of beverages, made from several vegetal sources, with a market rapidly expanding around the world. These beverages are mainly drunk in the replacement of milk. Thus, aims of the present study were to: (i) evaluate the nutritional declaration of 330 plant-based drinks currently available on the Italian market; (ii) compare their nutrition facts based on type, presence or not of organic certification and nutrition (NC) or health claims (HC), and of specific claims (“no added sugars” and “source of calcium”); (iii) compare their nutrition composition with cow’s milk. A high variability in terms of nutrient profile among products was observed. Limited difference was found between products belonging to both organic and NC categories, while products carrying HC showed lower energy, carbohydrates, sugar, and higher protein contents than the related counterparts. Compared to cow’s milk, plant-based drinks showed differences in terms of nutrient profile, mostly regarding the lower protein content (except for soy drinks). Overall, due to the variability, findings from the present survey show that plant-based drinks sold in Italy cannot be considered tout court as milk substitutes and support the importance of improving knowledge towards food labeling to make conscious food choices.
Transcriptomic Response of Breast Cancer Cells MDA-MB-231 to Docosahexaenoic Acid: Downregulation of Lipid and Cholesterol Metabolism Genes and Upregulation of Genes of the Pro-Apoptotic ER-Stress Pathway
Authors: Chénais Benoît , Cornec Marine , Dumont Solenne , Marchand Justine , Blanckaert Vincent
Published: May 2020

Despite considerable efforts in prevention and therapy, breast cancer remains a major public health concern worldwide. Numerous studies using breast cancer cell lines have shown the antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Some studies have also demonstrated the inhibitory effect of DHA on the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells, making DHA a potential anti-metastatic agent. Thus, DHA has shown its potential as a chemotherapeutic adjuvant. However, the molecular mechanisms triggering DHA effects remain unclear, and the aim of this study was to provide a transcriptomic basis for further cellular and molecular investigations. Therefore, MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with 100 µM DHA for 12 h or 24 h before RNA-seq analysis. The results show the great impact of DHA-treatment on the transcriptome, especially after 24 h of treatment. The impact of DHA is particularly visible in genes involved in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway that is strongly downregulated, and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress response that is, conversely, upregulated. This ER-stress and unfolded protein response could explain the pro-apoptotic effect of DHA. The expression of genes related to migration and invasion (especially SERPINE1, PLAT, and MMP11) is also impacted by DHA. In conclusion, this transcriptomic analysis supports the antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic and anti-invasive effects of DHA, and provides new avenues for understanding its molecular mechanisms.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourist Satisfaction with B&B in Zhejiang, China: An Importance–Performance Analysis
Authors: Hong Yan , Cai Gangwei , Mo Zhoujin , Gao Weijun , Xu Lei , Jiang Yuanxing , Jiang Jinming
Published: May 2020

After the outbreak of COVID-19 (especially in the stage of tourism recovery), the bed and breakfast (B&B) tourism industry faced big challenges in improving its health strategies. B&Bs are very important for the tourism industry in China and many other countries. However, few studies have studied the impact of B&Bs, under COVID-19, on tourism in China. Our paper is among one of the first studies to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on tourist satisfaction with B&Bs in China. The work/travel restrictions started from 20 January 2020, and work/after travel resumed from 20 February 2020 in Zhejiang, China. Data were collected from 588 tourists (who experienced B&Bs in Zhejiang, China) from a WeChat online survey, from 1 March to 15 March 2020. The current study attempted to fill the gap by studying the changing tourist satisfaction levels with B&Bs before/after COVID-19. Moreover, some suggestions are given to the B&B industry for tourism resumption after COVID-19 by an importance–performance analysis (IPA).
From Gene to Protein—How Bacterial Virulence Factors Manipulate Host Gene Expression During Infection
Authors: Denzer Lea , Schroten Horst , Schwerk Christian
Published: May 2020

Bacteria evolved many strategies to survive and persist within host cells. Secretion of bacterial effectors enables bacteria not only to enter the host cell but also to manipulate host gene expression to circumvent clearance by the host immune response. Some effectors were also shown to evade the nucleus to manipulate epigenetic processes as well as transcription and mRNA procession and are therefore classified as nucleomodulins. Others were shown to interfere downstream with gene expression at the level of mRNA stability, favoring either mRNA stabilization or mRNA degradation, translation or protein stability, including mechanisms of protein activation and degradation. Finally, manipulation of innate immune signaling and nutrient supply creates a replicative niche that enables bacterial intracellular persistence and survival. In this review, we want to highlight the divergent strategies applied by intracellular bacteria to evade host immune responses through subversion of host gene expression via bacterial effectors. Since these virulence proteins mimic host cell enzymes or own novel enzymatic functions, characterizing their properties could help to understand the complex interactions between host and pathogen during infections. Additionally, these insights could propose potential targets for medical therapy.
Oncogenic Potential of Bisphenol A and Common Environmental Contaminants in Human Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Nair Vidhya A , Valo Satu , Peltomäki Päivi , Bajbouj Khuloud , Abdel-Rahman Wael M.
Published: May 2020

There is an ample epidemiological evidence to support the role of environmental contaminants such as bisphenol A (BPA) in breast cancer development but the molecular mechanisms of their action are still not fully understood. Therefore, we sought to analyze the effects of three common contaminants (BPA; 4-tert-octylphenol, OP; hexabromocyclododecane, HBCD) on mammary epithelial cell (HME1) and MCF7 breast cancer cell line. We also supplied some data on methoxychlor, MXC; 4-nonylphenol, NP; and 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo [4–b] pyridine, PhIP. We focused on testing the prolonged (two months) exposure to low nano-molar concentrations (0.0015–0.0048 nM) presumed to be oncogenic and found that they induced DNA damage (evidenced by upregulation of pH2A.X, pCHK1, pCHK2, p-P53) and disrupted the cell cycle. Some agents induced epigenetic (methylation) changes of tumor suppressor genes TIMP3, CHFR, ESR1, IGSF4, CDH13, and GSTP1. Obviously, the accumulation of these molecular alterations is an essential base for cancer development. Consistent with this, we observed that these agents increased cellular invasiveness through collagen. Cellular abilities to form colonies in soft agar were increased for MCF7. Toxic agents induced phosphorylation of protein kinase such as EGFR, CREB, STAT6, c-Jun, STAT3, HSP6, HSP27, AMPKα1, FAK, p53, GSK-3α/β, and P70S6 in HME1. Most of these proteins are involved in potential oncogenic pathways. Overall, these data clarify the molecular alterations that can be induced by some common environmental contaminants in mammary epithelial cells which could be a foundation to understand environmental carcinogenesis.
Behavior of Partially Grouted Concrete Masonry Walls under Quasi-Static Cyclic Lateral Loading
Authors: Calderón Sebastián , Vargas Laura , Sandoval Cristián , Araya-Letelier Gerardo
Published: May 2020

Eight partially grouted (PG-RM) concrete masonry walls were tested to study the influence of the strength and width of blocks, the wall aspect ratio, the horizontal and vertical reinforcement ratio, and the presence of edge elements (flanges). The results were analyzed in terms of the failure mode, damage progression, shear strength, lateral stiffness degradation, equivalent viscous damping ratio, and displacement ductility. Additionally, the performances of some existing shear expressions were analyzed by comparing the measured and predicted lateral load capacity of the tested walls. Based on the results, a slight increment in the lateral stiffness was achieved when employing stronger blocks, while the shear strength remained constant. Besides, increasing the width of concrete blocks did not have a significant effect on the shear strength nor in the initial tangential stiffness, but it generated a softer post-peak strength degradation. Increasing the wall aspect ratio reduced the brittleness of the response and the shear strength. Reducing the amount of vertical reinforcement lowered the resulting shear strength, although it also slowed down the post-peak resistance degradation. Transversal edge elements provided integrity to the wall response, generated softer resistance degradation, and improved the symmetry of the response, but they did not raise the lateral resistance.
Hemispherical Microelectrode Array for Ex Vivo Retinal Neural Recording
Authors: Ha Yoonhee , Yoo Hyun-Ji , Shin Soowon , Jun Sang
Published: May 2020

To investigate the neuronal visual encoding process in the retina, researchers have performed in vitro and ex vivo electrophysiological experiments using animal retinal tissues. The microelectrode array (MEA) has become a key component in retinal experiments because it enables simultaneous neural recording from a population of retinal neurons. However, in most retinal experiments, it is inevitable that the retinal tissue is flattened on the planar MEA, becoming deformed from the original hemispherical shape. During the tissue deforming process, the retina is subjected to mechanical stress, which can induce abnormal physiological conditions. To overcome this problem, in this study, we propose a hemispherical MEA with a curvature that allows retinal tissues to adhere closely to electrodes without tissue deformation. The electrode array is fabricated by stretching a thin, flexible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) electrode layer onto a hemispherical substrate. To form micro patterns of electrodes, laser processing is employed instead of conventional thin-film microfabrication processes. The feasibility for neural recording from retinal tissues using this array is shown by conducting ex vivo retinal experiments. We anticipate that the proposed techniques for hemispherical MEAs can be utilized not only for ex vivo retinal studies but also for various flexible electronics.
An Improved Evaluation Strategy for Ash Analysis Using Scanning Electron Microscope Automated Mineralogy
Authors: Guhl Andrea C. , Greb Valentin-G. , Schulz Bernhard , Bertau Martin
Published: May 2020

Sewage slush ashes are materials composed of polyphase particles. Ashes are fine-grained with many amorphous components, and analytical techniques such as X-ray diffractometry cannot recover all the properties. For sewage sludge ash, treatment often focuses on phosphate recovery. Automated mineralogy techniques were applied in order to study phosphate associations and their behavior towards chemical processes. This work shows the distribution of phosphate content in sewage sludge ash and identifies the main recovered phosphate phases in acid leaching. Data interpretation was focused on the target material, phosphate. The approach documents spectra labelling with respect to one target component, phosphorus. This is a tool for assessing sewage sludge ashes towards their phosphate recovery potential and highlights issues processing needs to address.
Dietary Phytase and Lactic Acid-Treated Cereal Grains Differently Affected Calcium and Phosphorus Homeostasis from Intestinal Uptake to Systemic Metabolism in a Pig Model
Authors: Vötterl Julia C. , Klinsoda Jutamat , Zebeli Qendrim , Hennig-Pauka Isabel , Kandler Wolfgang , Metzler-Zebeli Barbara U.
Published: May 2020

High intestinal availability of dietary phosphorus (P) may impair calcium (Ca) homeostasis and bone integrity. In the present study, we investigated the effect of phytase supplementation in comparison to the soaking of cereal grains in 2.5% lactic acid (LA) on intestinal Ca and P absorption; intestinal, renal, and bone gene expression regarding Ca and P homeostasis; bone parameters; and serum levels of regulatory hormones in growing pigs. Thirty-two pigs were randomly assigned to one of four diets in a 2 × 2 factorial design in four replicate batches for 19 days. The diets comprised either untreated or LA-treated wheat and maize without and with phytase supplementation (500 phytase units/kg). Although both treatments improved the P balance, phytase and LA-treated cereals differently modulated gene expression related to intestinal absorption, and renal and bone metabolism of Ca and P, thereby altering homeostatic regulatory mechanisms as indicated by serum Ca, P, vitamin D, and fibroblast growth factor 23 levels. Moreover, phytase increased the gene expression related to reabsorption of Ca in the kidney, whereas LA-treated cereals decreased the expression of genes for osteoclastogenesis in bones, indicating an unbalanced systemic availability of minerals. In conclusion, high intestinal availability of dietary P may impair Ca homeostasis and bone integrity.
Metallo-Liposomes of Ruthenium Used as Promising Vectors of Genetic Material
Authors: Lebrón José Antonio , Ostos Francisco José , López-López Manuel , Moyá María Luisa , Sales Carlos , García Encarnación , García-Calderón Clara Beatriz , García-Calderón Margarita , Peña-Gómez María José , Rosado Iván V. , R. Balestra Fernando , Huertas Pablo , López-Cornejo Pilar
Published: May 2020

Gene therapy is a therapeutic process consisting of the transport of genetic material into cells. The design and preparation of novel carriers to transport DNA is an important research line in the medical field. Hybrid compounds such as metallo-liposomes, containing a mixture of lipids, were prepared and characterized. Cationic metal lipids derived from the [Ru(bpy)3]2+ complex, RuC11C11 or RuC19C19, both with different hydrophobic/lipophilic ratios, were mixed with the phospholipid DOPE. A relation between the size and the molar fraction α was found and a multidisciplinary study about the interaction between the metallo-liposomes and DNA was performed. The metallo-liposomes/DNA association was quantified and a relationship between Kapp and α was obtained. Techniques such as AFM, SEM, zeta potential, dynamic light scattering and agarose gel electrophoresis demonstrated the formation of lipoplexes and showed the structure of the liposomes. L/D values corresponding to the polynucleotide’s condensation were estimated. In vitro assays proved the low cell toxicity of the metallo-liposomes, lower for normal cells than for cancer cell lines, and a good internalization into cells. The latter as well as the transfection measurements carried out with plasmid DNA pEGFP-C1 have demonstrated a good availability of the Ru(II)-based liposomes for being used as non-toxic nanovectors in gene therapy.
Isolation and Screening of Extracellular PGPR from the Rhizosphere of Tomato Plants after Long-Term Reduced Tillage and Cover Crops
Authors: Guerrieri Maria Chiara , Fanfoni Elisabetta , Fiorini Andrea , Trevisan Marco , Puglisi Edoardo
Published: May 2020

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria provide an innovative solution to address challenges in sustainable agro-ecosystems, improving plant growth as well as acting as agents of biocontrol. In this study autochthonous bacteria were isolated from the rhizosphere of processing tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cultivated with conservation agriculture practices (i.e., reduced tillage and cover crops), and evaluated for both growth-promoting activities (PGPAs), and antagonistic potential against the phytopathogenic pest Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Considering the several activities of PGPR, we decided to structure the screening with a hierarchic approach, starting from testing the capability of fixing nitrogen. The obtained bacteria were processed through the molecular typing technique rep-PCR (Repetitive Extragenic Palindromic) in order to discriminate microbial strains with the same profiles, and identified via 16S rDNA sequencing. Thirty-eight selected isolates were screened in vitro for different activities related to plant nutrition and plant growth regulation as well as for antifungal traits. Isolated bacteria were found to exhibit different efficiencies in indoleacetic acid production and siderophore production, phosphate solubilization and biocontrol activity against the widespread soil-borne plant pathogen S. sclerotiorum. All the 38 bacterial isolates showed at least one property tested. With a view to detect the suitable candidates to be developed as biofertilizers, the selected isolates were ranked by their potential ability to function as PGPR. Thus, consortium of native PGPR bacteria inoculants may represent a suitable solution to address the challenges in sustainable agriculture, to ensure crop yield and quality, lowering the application of chemicals input.
Reclaimed Rubber/Poly(ε-caprolactone) Blends: Structure, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties
Authors: Hejna Aleksander , Zedler Łukasz , Przybysz-Romatowska Marta , Cañavate Javier , Colom Xavier , Formela Krzysztof
Published: May 2020

The amount of elastomeric waste, especially from tires is constantly increasing on a global scale. The recycling of these residua should be considered a priority. Compounding the waste rubbers with other polymers can be an excellent alternative to reuse waste materials. This procedure requires solving the issue of the lack of compatibility between the waste rubber particles and other polymers. Simultaneously, there is a claim for introducing biodegradable plastics materials to reduce their environmental impact. In this work, reclaimed rubber/poly(ε-caprolactone) (RR/PCL) blends are proposed to enhance the recycling and upcycling possibilities of waste rubbers. The results show that the addition of PCL to the RR allows obtaining blends with improved mechanical properties, good thermal stability, and enhanced interfacial compatibility between the used components. Structure and properties of the proposed RR/PCL have been studied by means of static and dynamic mechanical testing, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)-FTIR analysis.