bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UK Validation of Two Measures of Awareness of Age-Related Change (AARC)
Authors: sabatini serena , Ukoumunne Obioha , Ballard Clive , Brothers Allyson , Kaspar Roman , Collins Rachel , Kim Sarang , Corbett Anne , Aarsland Dag , Hampshire Adam , Brooker Helen , Clare Linda
Published: December 2019

Background: A questionnaire assessing awareness of positive and negative age-related changes (AARC gains and losses) was developed in the US and Germany. We validated the short form of the measure (AARC-10 SF) and the cognitive functioning subscale from the 50-item version of the AARC (AARC-50) questionnaire in the UK population aged 50 and over. Methods: Data from 14,797 participants in the PROTECT cohort were used to explore and confirm the psychometric properties of the AARC measures including: validity of the factor structure; reliability; measurement invariance across males and females and across individuals with and without a university degree; and convergent validity with measures of self-perception of aging and mental, physical, and cognitive health. We also explored the relationship between demographic variables and AARC. Results: We confirmed the two-factor structure (gains and losses) of the AARC-10 SF and the AARC-50 cognitive functioning subscale. Both scales showed good reliability and convergent validity. The meaning of AARC gains and losses was the same across males and females and across individuals with and without a university degree. Items composing AARC scales had the same meaning across individuals with and without a university degree. Items composing the AARC-50 cognitive functioning subscale had the same meaning across males and females. Two items in the AARC-10 SF had different meaning across males and females. Demographic variables significantly predicted AARC gains and losses. Conclusions: The AARC-10 SF and AARC-50 cognitive functioning subscale can help to identify UK individuals who perceive age-related changes in their mental, physical, and cognitive health.
Unmet health care needs of elderly residing on urban areas of Sunsari District, Nepal. A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Poudel Mukesh , Ojha Asmita , Yadav Deepak Kumar , Sah Ram Bilakshan , Chakravartty Avaniendra , Ghimire Anup
Published: December 2019

Background : Global ageing population is in increasing trend. Morbidity increases with age and enhances the burden of health problems that results in new challenges to meet the additional demands. There can be various types of issues such as health problems, health care utilization, physical and social care which should be carefully assessed and addressed.Objective : This study aimed to assess the unmet health care needs among elderly.Methodology : A Community based, House to House, Cross sectional study was conducted in urban areas of sunsari district using face to face interview. Sample size of 530 elderly were selected by Systematic proportionate random sampling technique.Results : This study unfurled the prevalence of unmet need for consultation for Near vision 52.3%, Far vision 53.7%%, Hearing 79.7%, Dental 79.4%, Hypertension 6.7%, Diabetes 3.9%, CVD 5.3 %, and of at least one Unmet Health care need to be 64.9%. At least one unmet health need was significantly associated with higher odds among elderly of age more than 70, of dalit and janajati ethnicity, illiterate, poor, those with difficulty leaving home, distance of health facility > 30 mins, and those with depressive symptoms.Conclusion : The study highlighted higher prevalence and associated factors related to unmet health care needs among elderly. There is an urgent need to promote geriatric health services and make it available at the primary health care level.
Impact of the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Program Maturity Status on the Nursing Home Resident’s Place of Death
Authors: Tark Aluem , Agarwal Mansi , Dick Andrew , Song Jiyoun , Stone Patricia
Published: December 2019

Background: The Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment program was developed to enhance quality of care delivered at end-of-life. Although positive impacts of the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment Program use have been identified, the association between a state’s program maturity status and nursing home resident’s likelihood of dying in their current care settings, nursing homes, remain unanswered. Objective: Examine the impact of the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Program maturity status on nursing home residents’ odds of dying in nursing homes.Methods: Program maturity status data were linked with multiple datasets: Minimum Data Set, Vital Statistics Data, Master Beneficiary Summary File, Certification and Survey Provider Enhanced Reports, and Area Health Resource File. Stratifying residents on long-stay and short-stay, we used descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models for total 595,152 individuals.Results: Controlling for individual and contextual variables, long-stay nursing home residents living in states where the program was mature status had 20% increased odds of dying in nursing homes (OR: 1.20; CI 1.02-1.43) compared to those who resided in states with non-conforming status. Individuals residing in states with developing program status showed 11% increase in odds of dying in nursing homes (OR: 1.12; CI 1.02-1.24) compared to non-conforming status. No significant difference was noted for short-stay nursing home residents.Conclusion: Mature and developing maturity status were associated with greater likelihood of dying in nursing homes among long-stay residents. Our findings inform that a well-structured advance care planning program such as Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Program enhances care outcomes among older adults living in nursing homes.
Comprehensive geriatric assessment in older patients with cancer: an external validation of the Multidimensional Prognostic Index in a French prospective cohort study
Authors: Hu Chunyun , Paccalin Marc , Valero Simon , Jamet Amelie , Brunet Thomas , Bureau Marie-Laure , Pilotto Alberto , Liuu Evelyne
Published: December 2019

Background: Older patients with cancer require specific and individualized management. The Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) based on the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) has shown a predictive interest in terms of mortality.Methods: From 2015 to 2017, consecutive patients ≥75 years old with cancer in Poitiers University Hospital referred to an oncogeriatric consultation. Patients underwent CGA with MPI that is categorized into three risk groups of mortality at one year.Results: Overall, 433 patients were included (women 42%; mean age 82.8±4.8 years). Most common tumor sites were prostate (23%), skin (17%), colorectum (15%) and breast (12%); 29% patients had a metastatic disease; 231 patients (53%) belonged to "MPI-1" group, 172 (40%) to "MPI-2" group and 30 patients (7%) were classified in "MPI-3" group. One-year mortality rate was 32% (23% in MPI-1, 41% in MPI-2 and 53% in MPI-3, p=0.024). All domains of MPI except cognition and living status were significantly associated with mortality at one-year, as well as tumor sites and metastatic status. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, adjusted on age, gender, tumor sites and metastatic status, validated MPI as being associated with a higher mortality risk (p<0.0001). The prognostic value of MPI was confirmed by the area under the ROC curve at 0.826 (P <0.0001).Conclusion: Our study confirmed the predictive value of MPI for one-year mortality in older patients with cancer. This practical prognostic tool may help to optimize the management of these vulnerable patients.
Negative childhood experiences and health inequalities among adults over 45: Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Yiwei , Diao Li , Xu Ling
Published: December 2019

Background Growing health inequalities have become an important challenge for Chinese society. This study analyses the impact of negative childhood experiences on health among Chinese adults over 45.Methods This study utilized data from the 2014 Life Course Survey under the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, with a total sample of 5,842 adults over the age of 45. This paper used a linear regression model to analyse the factors affecting the self-rated health of respondents. The concentration index was then used to measure the degree of health inequality, and finally, we decomposed the concentration index.Results The regression results showed that negative childhood experiences had a significant negative impact on the health of adults over 45 (β = -0.021, p < .000). The concentration index decomposition found that negative childhood experiences was associated with more health inequalities. The elasticity coefficient for negative childhood experiences was -0.119, the concentration index of negative childhood experiences was -0.019, and the contribution to health inequalities was 12.86%. The mechanism test and analysis found that negative childhood experiences have a greater negative impact on the health of the low-income group than on that of the high-income group. In fact, negative childhood experiences have reduced the socioeconomic status of respondents, leading to a decline in healthcare utilization, which has increased health inequalities in China.Conclusion This study found that negative childhood experiences was associated with health inequalities among adults over 45 in China. To improve the health of residents and to reduce health inequalities, more help and health interventions should be offered to groups with negative childhood experiences.
Sweet cherry fruit cracking: follow-up testing methods and cultivar-metabolic screening
Authors: Michailidis Michail , Karagiannis Evangelos , Tanou Georgia , Sarrou Eirini , Karamanoli Katerina , Lazaridou Athina , Martens Stefan , Molassiotis Athanassios
Published: December 2019

Background: Rain-induced fruit cracking is a major physiological problem in most sweet cherry cultivars. For an in vivo cracking assay, the ‘Christensen method’ (cracking evaluation following fruit immersion in water) is commonly used; however, this test has been questioned. Herein, we have designed and evaluated a cracking protocol, named ‘Waterfall method’, in which fruits are continuously wetted under controlled conditions. Results: The application of this method alone, or in combination with ‘Christensen method, was shown to be a reliable approach to characterize sweet cherry cracking behavior. Seventeen cherry cultivars were tested for their cracking behavior using both protocols, and primary as well as secondary metabolites identification was performed in skin tissue using a combined GC-MS and UPLC-MS/MS platform. Significant variations of some of the detected metabolites were discovered and important cracking index–metabolite correlations were identified. Conclusions: We have established an efficient cracking protocolwhich may facilitate breeding for new sweet cherry cultivars with high resistance tocracking.
Necessity of vasoconstrictors for esophageal variceal bleeding after endoscopic ligation: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yeh Jen-Hao , Lo Gin , Huang Ru-Yi , Lin Chih-Wen , Wang Wen-Lun
Published: December 2019

BackgroundSeveral recent trials have suggested that the need for vasoconstrictors for preventing esophageal variceal bleeding may be considerably reduced after endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL). However, comprehensive systematic reviews on this topic are hardly available. MethodsA meticulous literature review and meta-analysis were conducted using the databases of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Primary outcomes were initial hemostasis, rebleeding, mortality, and treatment failure within 5 days, and secondary outcomes were 6-week mortality and adverse events. ResultsFive randomized trials with 423 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The results revealed that the following outcomes were similar in groups that received only EVL and a standard combination regimen: initial hemostasis (97.6% vs. 98.0%, risk ratio (RR) = 1.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.97–1.02), 5-day rebleeding (15.9% vs. 6.6%, RR = 2.25, 95% CI = 0.87–5.77), treatment failure (9.6% vs. 6.7%, RR = 1.43, 95% CI = 0.54––3.75), 5-day mortality rates (0 vs. 0.7%, RR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.09–6.87), and 6-week mortality rates (2.9% vs. 3.0%, RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.25–3.13). By contrast, sensitivity analysis suggested obvious clinical heterogeneity in 5-day rebleeding although an outlier study was identified. ConclusionIn patients with acute esophageal variceal bleeding after EVL, 5-day and 6-week mortality rates were similar regardless of vasoconstrictor use. However, considering the controversial 5-day rebleeding rate, short course of vasoconstrictor use based on current evidence may be reasonable.
Availability, prices, and affordability of selected essential cancer medicines in a middle-income country – the case of Mexico
Authors: Moye-Holz Daniela , Ewen Margaret , Dreser Anahi , Bautista-Arredondo Sergio , Soria-Saucedo Rene , Dijk Jitse P. van , Reijneveld Sijmen A. , Hogerzeil Hans V.
Published: December 2019

Background: More alternatives have become available for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in low- and middle-income countries. Because of increasing demands, governments are now facing a problem of limited affordability and availability of essential cancer medicines. Yet, precise information about the access to these medicines is limited, and the methodology is not very well developed. Objective: To assess the availability and affordability of essential cancer medicines in Mexico, and compare their prices against those in other countries of the region. Methods: We surveyed 21 public hospitals and 19 private pharmacies in 8 states of Mexico. Data were collected on the availability and prices of 49 essential cancer medicines. Prices were compared against those in Chile, Peru, Brazil, Colombia and PAHO’s Strategic Fund. Results: Of the various medicines, mean availability in public and private sector outlets was 61.2% and 67.5%, respectively. In the public sector, medicines covered by the public health insurance “People’s Health Insurance” were more available. Only seven (public sector) and five (private sector) out of the 49 medicines were considered affordable. Public sector procurement prices were 41% lower than in other countries of the region. Conclusions: The availability of essential cancer medicines, in the public and private sector, falls below World Health Organization’s 80% target. The affordability remains suboptimal as well. A national health insurance scheme could serve as a mechanism to improve access to cancer medicines in the public sector. Comprehensive pricing policies are warranted to improve the affordability of cancer medicines in the private sector.
Longitudinal changes in blood-based biomarkers in chronic moderate to severe traumatic brain injury: preliminary findings
Authors: Schnakers Caroline , Divine James , Johnson Micah A. , Lutkenhoff Evan , Monti Martin M. , Keil Katrina M. , Guthrie John , Pouratian Nader , Patterson David , Jensen Gary , Morales Vanessa C. , Weaver Kathleen F. , Rosario Emily R.
Published: December 2019

Background Little is known about the changes in blood-based biomarkers and their relation to outcome, years after TBI. This prospective study aims to provide preliminary evidence of longitudinal changes blood-based biomarkers that relate to changes in outcome measures and cerebral structure and activity.Methods Eight patients with moderate-to-severe TBI were recruited (7 males, 35 ± 7.6 years old, 5 severe TBI, 17.52 ± 3.84 months post-injury). The following data were evaluated at monthly intervals across 6 time-points: a) Blood-based biomarkers, including GFAP, NSE, S100A12, SDBP145, UCH-L1, T-tau, P-tau, and P-tau/T-tau ratio; b) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to evaluate changes in brain structure using FMRIB Software Library (FSL); c) Resting state electroencephalograms (EEG) to evaluate changes in brain function using EEGLAB; and d) Outcome measures to assess cognition, emotion and functional recovery (i.e., MOCA, RBANS, BDI-II and DRS).Results Changes in P-tau levels were found across time [p=0.007]. P-tau was positively related to functional [p<0.001] and cognitive [p=0.006] outcomes, and negatively related to the severity of depression, 6 months later [R=-0.901; p=.006]. P-tau and P-tau/T-tau ratio were also positively correlated to shape change in subcortical areas such as brainstem [T(7)=4.71, p=0.008] and putamen [T(7)=3.25, p = 0.012].Conclusions Our study provides preliminary findings that suggest a relationship between P-tau and the recovery of patients with chronic TBI. Further investigation in a larger cohort is warranted to validate this biomarker and better understand the mechanism of neural recovery in chronic patients.
Influencing factors of AF detection in cryptogenic stroke: A survey among neurologists in China
Authors: Bi Ying , He Quan-Wei , Lu Zuxun , Cao Shiyi , Shen Jing , Long Chunnan , Hu Bo , Cao Fei
Published: December 2019

Background and Purpose— Atrial fibrillation (AF) detection is a cornerstone of cardioembolic stroke prevention and is especially recommended in patients initially diagnosed cryptogenic stroke, but few data exist about the extent of AF detection. This study aimed to investigate influencing factors of AF detection for cryptogenic stroke patients from neurologists’ perspective. Methods— A questionnaire survey was conducted from October 2016 to March 2018 and included neurologists from 42 hospitals in China. Respondents’ demographic characteristics, AF-related knowledge and education, attitude to AF detection and daily AF detection practice were surveyed. Pearson chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to identify neurologists characteristics independently associated with AF detection. Results— 611 neurologists were surveyed in this study and 53.0% reported always detecting AF among cryptogenic stroke patients. The main obstacles of AF detection were insufficient knowledge, high expense and inactive attitude. Those who received continuing medical education (training program) about AF detection (OR=2.25, CI[1.57, 3.23], p<0.001), who had positive attitude (OR=3.25,CI [2.24, 4.71], p<0.001) and who acquired graduate degree (OR=2.48, CI[1.21, 5.07], p=0.013) were more likely to detect AF in cryptogenic stroke patients. Neurologists who had worked in neurology over 20 years (OR=3.59, CI[1.61, 8.05], p=0.002), and who received continuing medical education (OR=1.82, CI[1.21, 2.58], p=0.001) were more likely to have an positive attitude to AF detection. Conclusions— Our survey suggested inadequate AF detection among neurologists, and continuing medical education was associated with neurologists’ attitude and AF detection behavior. More continuing medical education is required to increase the effective detection of AF and improve the quality of clinical practice.
Medienbildung für die Netz-Generation
Authors: De Witt Claudia
Published: December 2019

Die Autorin beschreibt eingangs die Generation der 4- 29Jährigen als die "Netz-Generation", die den Umgang mit interaktiven Medien bereits in der Kindheit einübt. Sie stellt zwei Theorien zu den Konsequenzen der Nutzung von Internet und Multimedia für die Entwicklung junger Menschen dar, indem sie die Thesen des amerikanischen Forschers Tapscott mit Opaschowski vergleicht. Während der Erstgenannte euphorisch meint, die Kinder würden zu Eigenständigkeit und vielseitigen Kompetenzen herangebildet, befürchtet der deutsche Forscher Folgen für die psychosoziale Reife durch Beliebigkeit, Reizüberflutung und Mangel an Entspannung. Im folgenden legt die Autorin dar, welche Merkmale der Postmoderne die "Netz-Kids" aufweisen. Sie verdeutlicht dabei die negativen Konsequenzen, die sich ergeben, wenn die heranwachsende Generation mit Medien experimentiert, deren Gefahren sie noch nicht einzuschätzen vermag. Abschließend beschreibt sie die Aufgabe der pädagogischen Medienbildung im Sinne eines nicht nur experimentellen, sondern auch reflektierten Umgangs mit Medien.
Translation vs. Transliteration: Arabization in Scientific Texts
Authors: Grami Grami
Published: December 2019

This paper looks at the concepts of translation and transliteration in general and in scientific and academic texts in particular. In simple terms, the former refers to the process of finding equivalents in the target language (as opposed to the original language of the text), while the latter refers to writing the original word using the characters of the target language. The paper argues that translation works well in texts that explain, describe, detail, instruct and summarize while transliteration works better in concepts, processes, known procedures and proper nouns, to mention but a few. The paper suggests that the reliance on literal translation of terms and concepts can be counterproductive to the purpose of translation. Six computer science students were involved in a small-scale experiment. Tests were designed to determine which approach, Arabization or literal translation, is more efficient by measuring the time students took to complete certain tasks and whether students can trace the translated word back to its English origin. All participants were interviewed afterwards. Results showed that they preferred transliterated terms and that Arabic literal translation was not helpful. Results also showed that transliteration of scientific texts helped students understand faster and more accurately. The paper recommends a hybrid approach that employs both methods depending on what terms or processes are being translated.
El SECOP II y su implementación en la gobernación del departamento de Caldas
Authors: Salazar Díaz Juliana , Castro Noreña Jhoan Sebastián , Pineda Arias David Mauricio , Suarez Henao María Camila , Vallejo Jaramillo Jorge Hernán , Bastidas Vargas Jerson Andrés
Published: December 2019

El gobierno de Colombia fijó mediante el Documento Conpes 3249, la política pública a seguir en materia de contratación del Estado. Para ello, entre otros criterios, estableció la creación de un sistema electrónico de contratación que se concretó mediante la expedición del Decreto 3485 (2011), sistema al que se le denominó SECOP (Sistema electrónico para la contratación pública), y está compuesto por tres plataformas: la Tienda Virtual del Estado Colombiano, el Secop I y el SECOP II.Por lo anterior, el semillero de investigación Contratación Estatal del Programa de Derecho de la Universidad Católica Luis Amigó, sede Manizales, decidió realizar un análisis sobre la preparación e implementación del SECOP II en la Gobernación del departamento de Caldas, con el fin de determinar si tal entidad cuenta con un grado o nivel óptimo de preparación jurídica, tecnológica, de infraestructura y de talento humano que le permita poner en funcionamiento esta plataforma de acuerdo con los parámetros dados por Colombia Compra Eficiente (CCE) como ente administrador de dicho sistema.El resultado expuesto es producto de un proceso de investigación jurídico-dogmática que desarrollaron los autores en cinco (5) fases mediante la aplicación de un método mixto con enfoque empírico-analítico.
Developing the System of Digital Management of Organization
Authors: Maslennikov V. V. , Lyandau Yu. V. , Kalinina I. A.
Published: December 2019

Digitalization with methods of artificial intellect, computer technologies and digital platforms in Russian business and organization management today is becoming a reality. The article studies key components of the organization management system and their digital transformation. Transformation of management systems in digital economy implies their implementation on the digital platform. The authors underline such key elements of the management system as the object and subject of management. Such notions as vision, mission, goals, values of the organization, its managerial decisions, management processes, organizational structures management, mechanisms and technologies of management, strategy, activity regulations, indicators of activity estimation, risks were defined. The authors analyzed and presented different definitions of the notion ‘digital platform’, which were formulated by experts of MIT company, ‘Rostelecom’ and in the program ‘Digital Economy of the Russian Federation’. Digital transformation of the management system was described in detail, it includes introduction of digital doubles, designing digital strategy of organization development, digital risk management, making managerial decisions on-line. Company owners and managers can get information about business on-line by mobile devices and employees can see goals, indicators and objectives, their deadlines and final result. The article shows the efficiency of using the common digital platform ensuring implementation of the development strategy of the selected business-model and carrying out digital transformation of business.
Ecological Restrictions of Spatial Development in Practice of Russian Regions
Authors: Zhalsaraeva E. A. , Shangina A. V. , Dugarzhapova M. A.
Published: December 2019

The article describes conditions of spatial development of Russian regions in view of ‘The Strategy of Spatial Development of the Russian Federation up to 2025’ adopted in February 2019. Today the social and economic development of regions has technogeneous character. The anthropogenic impact on nature and climate is increasing, the quality of mineral resources is deteriorating. In this connection ecologic-economic balance becomes an important component of spatial development. The authors provide systematization of factors determining the spatial economic development at the level of regions, including ecological restrictions. During the research they used general academic methods of quantitative and qualitative analysis, scientific abstraction, synthesis and comparison. The current ecologic-economic restrictions for regions with unique natural systems and objects were identified and studied. Focus was made on particularly protected natural territories, which form the basis of ecological framework of regions. Principle groups of factors of spatial development were identified and ecologic-economic restrictions of regional development were described by using two big federal districts – the Republic of Buryatia and the Altay Territory. The authors put forward the lines of spatial development of regional economies with regard to ecological restrictions.
Carbohydrate Scaffolds for the Study of the Autism-associated Bacterium, Clostridium bolteae
Authors: Pequegnat Brittany , Monteiro Mario A.
Published: December 2019

A large number of children in the autism spectrum disorder suffer from gastrointestinal
(GI) conditions, such as constipation and diarrhea. Clostridium bolteae is a part of a set
of pathogens being regularly detected in the stool samples of hosts affected by GI and autism
symptoms. Accompanying studies have pointed out the possibility that such microbes affect
behaviour through the production of neurotoxic metabolites in a so-called, gut-brain connection.
As an extension of our Clostridium difficile polysaccharide (PS)-based vaccine research,
we engaged in the discovery of C. bolteae surface carbohydrates. So far, studies revealed that
C. bolteae produces a specific immunogenic PS capsule comprised of disaccharide repeating
blocks of mannose (Manp) and rhamnose (Rhap) units: α-D-Manp-(1→[-4)-β-D-Rhap-
(1→3)-α-D-Manp-(1→]n. For vaccinology and further immunogenic experiments, a method
to produce C. bolteae PS conjugates has been developed, along with the chemical syntheses
of the PS non-reducing end linkage, with D-Rha or L-Rha, α-D-Manp-(1→4)-α-D-Rhap-
(1→O(CH2)5NH2 and α-D-Manp-(1→4)-α-L-Rhap-(1→O(CH2)5NH2, equipped with an
aminopentyl linker at the reducing end for conjugation purposes. The discovery of C. bolteae
PS immunogen opens the door to the creation of non-evasive diagnostic tools to evaluate the
frequency and role of this microbe in autistic subjects and to a vaccine to reduce colonization
levels in the GI tract, thus impeding the concentration of neurotoxins.
Resveratrol: A New Potential Therapeutic Agent for Melanoma?
Authors: Pourhanifeh Mohamad Hossein , Abbaszadeh-Goudarzi Kazem , Goodarzi Mohammad , Piccirillo Sara G.M. , Shafiee Alimohammad , Hajighadimi Sarah , Moradizarmehri Sanaz , Asemi Zatollah , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: December 2019

:

Melanoma is the most life-threatening and aggressive class of skin malignancies. The incidence
of melanoma has steadily increased. Metastatic melanoma is greatly resistant to standard antimelanoma
treatments such as chemotherapy, and the 5-year survival rate of cases with melanoma
who have a metastatic form of the disease is less than 10%. The contributing role of apoptosis, angiogenesis
and autophagy in the pathophysiology of melanoma has been previously demonstrated. Thus,
it is extremely urgent to search for complementary therapeutic approaches that could enhance the
quality of life of subjects and reduce treatment resistance and adverse effects. Resveratrol, known as a
polyphenol component present in grapes and some plants, has anti-cancer properties due to its function
as an apoptosis inducer in tumor cells, and anti-angiogenic agent to prevent metastasis. However,
more clinical trials should be conducted to prove resveratrol efficacy.

:

Herein, for the first time, we summarize the current knowledge of anti-cancerous activities of resveratrol
in melanoma.
Synthesis of Heterocyclic Triterpene Derivatives with Biological Activities via Click Reaction
Authors: Ngoc Thuc Dinh , Dehaen Wim , Meervelt Luc Van , Balzarini Jan
Published: December 2019

:

Grignard reactions were applied to synthesize 2-ethynyl-2-hydroxylallobetulin
5 from 2-oxoallobetulin 4. The compound plays an important role as starting material to
synthesize heterocyclic triterpenes using the click reaction. A series of new 1,2,3-triazole
derivatives derived from 2-oxoallobetulin were successfully obtained. Under similar reaction
conditions, only one compound 6 kept the hydroxyl functional group, while in the
other compounds 7, 8 and 9, water was eliminated. The structures of obtained compounds
were confirmed by 2D-NMR spectroscopy. The X-ray analysis of 5 indicated that only one
isomer was obtained and in this compound, the hydroxyl group is situated on the same side
as the ether group, the ethynyl group being situated at the opposite side. All products were
also evaluated for their cytostatic activity in cell culture including L1210, CEM and Hela.
Several compounds showed measurable cytostatic activity in the micromolar range.
Topological Analysis of Electron Density in Large Biomolecular Systems
Authors: Grishina Maria A. , Potemkin Vladimir A.
Published: December 2019

Background:

A great step toward describing the structure of the molecular electron was made in the era of quantum chemical methods. Methods play a very important role in the prediction of molecular properties and in the description of the reactivity of compounds, which cannot be overestimated. There are many works, books, and articles on quantum methods, their applications, and comparisons. At the same time, quantum methods of a high level of theory, which give the most accurate results, are time-consuming, which makes them almost impossible to describe large complex molecular systems, such as macromolecules, enzymes, supramolecular compounds, crystal fragments, and so on.

Objective:

To propose an approach that allows real-time estimation of electron density in large systems, such as macromolecules, nanosystems, proteins.

Methods:

AlteQ approach was applied to the tolopogical analysis of electron density for “substrate - cytochrome” complexes. The approach is based on the use of Slater’s type atomic contributions. Parameters of the atomic contributions were found using high resolution X-ray diffraction data for organic and inorganic molecules. Relationships of the parameters with atomic number, ionization potentials and electronegativities were determined. The sufficient quality of the molecular electron structure representation was shown under comparison of AlteQ predicted and observed electron densities. AlteQ algorithm was applied for evaluation of electron structure of “CYP3A4 – substrate” complexes modeled using BiS/MC restricted docking procedure. Topological analysis (similar to Atoms In Molecules (AIM) theory suggested by Richard F.W. Bader) of the AlteQ molecular electron density was carried out for each complex. The determination of (3,-1) bond, (3,+1) ring, (3,+3) cage critical points of electron density in the intermolecular “CYP3A4 – substrate” space was performed.

Results:

Different characteristics such as electron density, Laplacian eigen values, etc. at the critical points were computed. Relationship of pKM (KM is Michaelis constant) with the maximal value of the second Laplacian eigen value of electron density at the critical points and energy of complex formation computed using MM3 force field was determined.

Conclusion:

It was shown that significant number of (3,-1) bond critical points are located in the intermolecular space between the enzyme site and groups of substrate atoms eliminating during metabolism processes.
Sodium Dodecyl Benzene Sulfonate-assisted Synthesis and Natural Sunlight Photocatalytic Activity of La Bismuthate Nanorods
Authors: Qiu Fanglv , Wang Zi , Chen Hongjun , Ma Yue , Wu Hang , Yan Lu , Pei Lizhai , Fan Chuangang
Published: December 2019

Background:

Removal of the organic pollutants using the photo-catalysts by the photocatalytic
treatment process under natural sunlight irradiation has attracted great attention owing to the
complete destruction of the organic pollutants. The La bismuthate nanorods possess good photocatalytic
performance for the removal of the methylene orange (MO) under the sunlight irradiation.

Objective:

The aim is to synthesize La bismuthate nanorods by hydrothermal method and research
the photocatalytic performance of the La bismuthate nanorods for MO degradation under sunlight
irradiation.

Methods:

La bismuthate nanorods have been synthesized by a simple sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate
(SDBS)-assisted hydrothermal method using sodium bismuthate and La acetate as the starting
materials. The obtained La bismuthate products were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning
electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy and solid UV-vis diffuse reflectance
spectrum.

Results:

With different SDBS concentration, hydrothermal temperature and reaction time, different
morphologies of the La bismuthate products were obtained. XRD analysis shows that the La bismuthate
nanorods obtained from 180°C for 24 h with 5wt.% SDBS are composed of orthorhombic
La1.08Bi0.92O3.03 phase. Electron microscopy observations show that the La bismuthate nanorods with
flat tips have the length of longer than 10 μm and diameter of about 20-100 nm, respectively. The
morphology and structure of the products are closely related to the SDBS concentration, hydrothermal
temperature and reaction time. Solid UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectrum shows that the band
gap of the La bismuthate nanorods is 2.37 eV. The La bismuthate nanorods show good photocatalytic
performance for the degradation of MO under the sunlight irradiation. MO solution with the concentration
of 10 mg.L-1 can be totally removed by 10 mg La bismuthate nanorods in 10 mL MO aqueous
solution under sunlight irradiation for 6 h.

Conclusion:

The photocatalytic performance for the removal of MO is dependent on the sunlight
irradiation time and dosage of the La bismuthate nanorods. The La bismuthate nanorods exhibit great
potential for the removal of organic pollutants.
Applicability of Low-intensity Vibrations as a Regulatory Factor on Stem and Progenitor Cell Populations
Authors: Baskan Oznur , Karadas Ozge , Mese Gulistan , Ozcivici Engin
Published: December 2019

Persistent and transient mechanical loads can act as biological signals on all levels of an
organism. It is therefore not surprising that most cell types can sense and respond to mechanical loads,
similar to their interaction with biochemical and electrical signals. The presence or absence of mechanical
forces can be an important determinant of form, function and health of many tissue types.
Along with naturally occurring mechanical loads, it is possible to manipulate and apply external physical
loads on tissues in biomedical sciences, either for prevention or treatment of catabolism related to
many factors, including aging, paralysis, sedentary lifestyles and spaceflight. Mechanical loads consist
of many components in their applied signal form such as magnitude, frequency, duration and intervals.
Even though high magnitude mechanical loads with low frequencies (e.g. running or weight lifting)
induce anabolism in musculoskeletal tissues, their applicability as anabolic agents is limited because of
the required compliance and physical health of the target population. On the other hand, it is possible to
use low magnitude and high frequency (e.g. in a vibratory form) mechanical loads for anabolism as
well. Cells, including stem cells of the musculoskeletal tissue, are sensitive to high frequency, lowintensity
mechanical signals. This sensitivity can be utilized not only for the targeted treatment of tissues,
but also for stem cell expansion, differentiation and biomaterial interaction in tissue engineering
applications. In this review, we reported recent advances in the application of low-intensity vibrations
on stem and progenitor cell populations. Modulation of cellular behavior with low-intensity vibrations
as an alternative or complementary factor to biochemical and scaffold induced signals may represent an
increase of capabilities in studies related to tissue engineering.
Microbial Biosurfactants-an Ecofriendly Boon to Industries for Green Revolution
Authors: Sharma Pushpinder , Sharma Nivedita
Published: December 2019

Biosurfactants have a biological origin, and are widely known as surface active agents.
Different classes of biosurfactant have significant importance in both the biotechnological and
microbiological arena. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis and Candida sp. are important
classes of microorganisms that are highly investigated for the production of rhamnolipids (RLs)
biosurfactants. Rhamnolipids have unique surface activity and have gained interest in various industrial
applications. Due to their high biodegradability, renewability and functionally maintenance
at extreme conditions, microbial biosurfactants are more advantageous than chemical-based
biosurfactants. Biosurfactants produced by microorganisms are a potential candidate for biodegradation,
environmental cleanup of pollutants and also play a role in the heavy metal removal of
metallurgical industries also many patents have been filed. Therefore, greater attention has been
paid to biosurfactants and identifying their potential applications for further studies.
Non-Motorized Trip Pattern in Sub-Saharan Africa: Assessment of Walk Trip
Authors: Busari Ayobami A
Published: December 2019

Background:

Walking as a parent mode of transportation has received little or no attention regarding planning, design, and development, thereby leading to chaotic outcomes when it comes to controlling and future estimation in most sub-Saharan Africa countries. This necessitated the research on the pertinent factors and variables that affect walking as a means of transportation in the study area, a semi-urban industrial cluster in South-Western Nigeria.

Methods:

One Thousand five hundred (1500) information cards were distributed for seven months. This was done to accumulate information on trip patterns, modal split, walk trip volume and so on. The data obtained was analysed using SPSS version 23.

Results:

The result revealed that 53.2% of the respondent engages in a walk trip every day either to access mode, access sub-mode or for recreation purposes. The commercial zone showed the highest percentage of walk trips of 40%. The mathematical model showed that age and walk trips are inversely proportional. Based on the result of the analysis, cost, safety and exercise are the primary reason why people engage in a walking trip. The R2value of 0.83 established the robustness of the model.

Conclusion:

The created model can be utilized for anticipating the future modular part by inputting anticipated future estimation of exploratory variables, which will also aid the planning of a better transport system for the locality. The lack of essential infrastructure poses a big problem for the utilisation of this mode of transportation.
Acute Kidney Injury and CKD Associated with Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Renaghan Amanda DeMauro , Jaimes Edgar A. , Malyszko Jolanta , Perazella Mark A. , Sprangers Ben , Rosner Mitchell Howard
Published: December 2019

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a life-saving therapy for many patients with cancer, as well as patients with some nonmalignant hematologic disorders, such as aplastic anemia, sickle cell disease, and certain congenital immune deficiencies. Kidney injury directly associated with stem cell transplantation includes a wide range of structural and functional abnormalities, which may be vascular (hypertension, thrombotic microangiopathy), glomerular (albuminuria, nephrotic glomerulopathies), and/or tubulointerstitial. AKI occurs commonly after stem cell transplant, affecting 10%–73% of patients. The cause is often multifactorial and can include sepsis, nephrotoxic medications, marrow infusion syndrome, hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, thrombotic microangiopathy, infections, and graft versus host disease. The risk of post-transplant kidney injury varies depending on patient characteristics, type of transplant (allogeneic versus autologous), and choice of chemotherapeutic conditioning regimen (myeloablative versus nonmyeloablative). Importantly, AKI is associated with substantial morbidity, including the need for KRT in approximately 5% of patients and the development of CKD in up to 60% of transplant recipients. AKI has been associated universally with higher all-cause and nonrelapse mortality regardless of transplant type, and studies have consistently shown extremely high (>80%) mortality rates in those patients requiring acute dialysis. Accordingly, prevention, early recognition, and prompt treatment of kidney injury are essential to improving kidney and patient outcomes after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and for realizing the full potential of this therapy.
Polytropic Socrates’ Implicit Defence of Philosophy
Authors: Trudeau Samantha
Published: December 2019

This article offers an interpretation of Plato’s Lesser Hippias, containing several original claims. First, it contends that the dialogue takes place in front of an unnamed audience composed of Socrates’ students and the dialogue is therefore for their benefit, not that of Hippias or Eudicus. It then argues that Socrates juxtaposes himself to Hippias to show the superiority of philosophy to sophistry. Finally, this article claims that the central argument of the dialogue is a means to demonstrate Socrates’ superior understanding of justice, for he is able to tell the truth on the matter as well as lie, showing mastery of both philosophy and sophistry. These assertions demonstrate the importance of the Lesser Hippias in the broader Platonic corpus.
The Contemporary Turkish Government, Ideological Strategies and the Symbolic
Authors: Doruk Doğanay Yankı
Published: December 2019

The contemporary government of Turkey has been seeing increasing support for several years, and obstacles it has faced have not reduced the number of its supporters by much. This paper emphasizes that the inquiries which interpret this political conjuncture should consider the Turkish ideological atmosphere and discursive arrangements employed by politicians to manufacture consent. The author aims to discover the relation between the success of the ruling party and its discursive strategies while examining its symbolic structure and imaginary constructions using Lacanian psychoanalysis by employing interpretative discourse analysis. The author intends to highlight the nodal points of the hegemonic discourse, seeks to uncover rhetorical patterns, and attempts to explore the applicability of psychoanalysis on political and sociological issues.
Обработка деталей металлооптики на ультрапрецизионном станке «Сфера 100-Ф4»
Authors: Захаревич Е.М. , Лапшин В.В. , Шавва М.А.
Published: December 2019

В статье представлены основные конструктивные особенности ультрапрецизионного станка для обработки металлооптических деталей, а также его технические и технологические характеристики. Описан процесс и основные особенности обработки оптической детали типа «Оболочка». Приведены результаты обработки пробной детали.
Сравнительный анализ лазерных систем для микрообработки материалов
Authors: Григорьянц А.Г. , Казарян М.А. , Лябин Н.А. , Шиганов И.Н.
Published: December 2019

В работе представлен сравнительный анализ параметров импульсных лазеров и лазерных систем на парах меди (ЛПМ и ЛСПМ) с другими типами газовых и твердотельных лазеров и их возможности промышленного использования в области обработки материалов. Показано, что ЛПМ с длинами волн излучения 510,6 и 578,2 нм, наносекундной длительностью импульсов и световым пятном диаметром до 20 мкм с плотностью пиковой мощности 10 в 9 степени – 10 в 11 степени Вт / см2 являются уникальными инструментами для эффективной и качественной микрообработки практически любых металлических и большого круга неметаллических материалов.
Перехват трафика в оптических сетях: информативные паразитные электромагнитные излучения
Authors: Григорашев В.В.
Published: December 2019

В статье проанализированы возможности формирования в оптических сетях информативного сигнала радиодиапазона на основе нелинейно-оптической генерации разностных частот. На основе упрощенной физической модели перехвата трафика в оптических сетях с амплитудной модуляцией получены оценки мощности информативного паразитного электромагнитного излучения. Модель и оценки показывают реалистичность дистанционного перехвата трафика в оптических сетях. Обсуждаются наиболее опасные участки оптической сети и некоторые методы повышения эффективности перехвата. Также предлагаются методы защиты трафика техническими средствами.
Расчетные методы оценки степени опасности многоволнового лазерного излучения
Authors: Рахманов Б.Н. , Кезик В.И. , Кибовский В.Т. , Тихомиров С.В.
Published: December 2019

Лазерные изделия, генерирующие лазерное излучение одновременно на нескольких длинах волн, широко используются как в гражданской, так и военной сферах деятельности. Гигиеническое нормирование многоволнового лазерного излучения имеет свою специфику. Формулы для вычисления предельно допустимых уровней излучения, регламентированные в отечественных нормативных документах по лазерной безопасности, недостаточно корректны. В статье приведены доказательства необходимости внесения изменений в действующие документы по лазерной безопасности.