bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of a group-based treatment program on adipocytokines, oxidative status, inflammatory cytokines and arterial stiffness in obese children and adolescents
Authors: Santiprabhob Jeerunda , Limprayoon Kawewan , Aanpreung Prapun , Charoensakdi Ratiya , Kalpravidh Ruchaneekorn W. , Phonrat Benjaluck , Tungtrongchitr Rungsunn
Published: June 2018

Background

Dysregulation of adipocytokines, inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress are associated with the pathogenesis of obesity-related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a group-based lifestyle modification program on adipocytokines, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative status and arterial stiffness in obese youth.

Methods

A 1-year weight-reduction program was conducted. The program consisted of initial hospitalization and five outpatient group-based sessions held at 1, 2, 3, 6 and 9 months. Pre- and post-intervention measurements included anthropometric data, blood tests, body composition and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV).

Results

A total of 126 obese youths were recruited, and 115 of those completed the study. Twenty-four participants had increased percentage weight for height at the end of the study (group A), 30 had minimal reduction (group B) and 61 had substantial reduction (group C). Lean mass significantly increased in all three groups (all p<0.001). A significant decrease in leptin (group A, p=0.021; group B, p=0.005; group C, p<0.001), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (group A, p=0.019; group B, p=0.004; group C, p<0.001) and ba-PWV (group A, p=0.031; group B, p=0.015; group C, p<0.001) was also observed. No significant change in the oxidative status was found among the groups. Reduction in ba-PWV was correlated with decreases in plasma malondialdehyde (pMDA) (r=0.233, p=0.036) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (r=0.253, p=0.025).

Conclusions

A group-based healthy lifestyle program for obese youths had beneficial effects on adipocytokines, inflammatory cytokines and arterial stiffness. Participants without change in weight status also benefited. These improvements may reduce the risk of obese youths developing atherosclerosis.
Philosophical dialogue – towards the cultural history of the genre
Authors: Rakoczy Marta
Published: June 2018

This text analyzes philosophical dialogue (from Plato to Augustine of Hippo, Berkeley, Hume and Leibniz) as a linguistic genre embedded in the cultural, historical and media context, which was decisive for the role and functions accorded to philosophy as such. I argue that one way to describe transformations of Western thought, which has not been consistently implemented, is a description of its history through the category of progressive textualization and through anthropological-historical category of a genre. Two models of communication analyzed by Ives Winkin – orchestral and telegraphic – first associated with the perception of communication as an act of interpersonal, linguistic and non-linguisticcommunio, and second, the perception of communication as a linear transfer of information from one mind to another, have their historical, especially the media roots. The first is associated with the word alive and spoken communication. The second is conditioned by the primacy of the printed word and the quiet, solitary reading, which cuts off existential contexts, and decontextualizes an utterance and tranforms it into a strictly graphic message far from direct, interpersonal understanding. Both models can be seen well in philosophical texts. And the dominance of the latter, related to the development of print culture, allows us to understand why the philosophical dialogue as a trace of the conversation – a trace of the existential practice as well as philosophical – is experiencing a crisis in modern times.
The efficacy of radiofrequency hyperthermia combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer
Authors: Li Zhihui , Sun Qinge , Huang Xiaoyan , Zhang Jianzhong , Hao Jing , Li Yue , Zhang Shihong
Published: June 2018

This study investigated the effect of radiofrequency hyperthermia combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer.

Methods

Seventy-five patients with advanced ovarian cancer were grouped into observation (n = 36) and control (n = 37) groups according to different treatment methods. The age of the patients in the control and the experimental groups were (55 + 11) and (53 + 12) years old, respectively. The control group was received chemotherapy alone (paclitaxel + cisplatin chemotherapy), and on the basis of systemic chemotherapy, the observation group was administered therapy in conjunction with abdominal pelvic radiofrequency hyperthermia.

Results

The tumor remission rate, ascites, serum CA125 levels, pain control, quality of life enhancement, III+IV bone marrow suppression and improvement of gastrointestinal reaction in the observation group were better than those of the control group (all P< 0.05).

Conclusion

Radiofrequency hyperthermia combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer has significantly improved the tumor remission rate, ascite control and CA125 levels, and substantially reduced the gastrointestinal reaction and bone marrow suppression rate, which is worthy of intensive clinical application.
Norleucine metal complexes: comments on their equilibrium constants data
Authors: Fazary Ahmed E. , Bani-Fwaz Mutasem Z. , Fawy Khaled F. , Sahlabji Taher , Awwad Nasser S. , Abd-Rabboh Hisham S.M.
Published: June 2018

This discussion article summarizes all protonation and stability constants data found in the literature for nonprotein l-norleucine amino acid and its metal complexes. The results of approximately 18 published articles discussing the protonation and complexation equilibria of l-norleucine using different techniques and software were presented to comprehend the data on the grounds of modern aspects of l-norleucine complex chemistry.
The DoloTest® in a specialized headache center among patients receiving psychological treatment. A pilot study
Authors: Nielsen Marianne Kromann , Westergaard Maria Lurenda , Nielsen Dorte Kjeldgaard , Zimmer Trine , Jensen Rigmor Hoejland
Published: June 2018

Background

The DoloTest is a newer health-related quality of life (HRQoL) monitoring instrument for pain, not yet validated for headache.

Aims

To examine the usefulness of the DoloTest in a specialized headache center.

Methods

The sample consisted of patients referred to psychologists from the Danish Headache Center (DHC) for whom the test was carried out at start of, end of, and 6 months after treatment. Points on eight scales of the test were measured (values ranged from 0 to 100), then totaled (0 to 800). Scores were analyzed using Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test. The correlation between headache days and DoloTest scores were computed using linear regression adjusted for age. Qualitative feedback on usefulness of the test were gathered from psychologists.

Results

Of 135 patients included, 105 completed treatment. On average, headache days decreased from 22 days per month at start of treatment (SD 9.0, median 29) to 18 days at end of treatment (SD 10.8, median 19) (p<0.001). At end of treatment, DoloTest scores improved for pain (p=0.015) and reduced energy and strength (p=0.034). At 6 months’ follow-up, total scores improved (p=0.034), as well as component scores for pain (p=0.010), problems with strenuous activity (p=0.045) and reduced energy and strength (p=0.012). Correlation between reduced headache days and improved DoloTest scores was 0.303 (p=0.028). Psychologists found the test useful in monitoring and evaluating patients.

Conclusions

The DoloTest was useful for psychoeducation and for monitoring the effect of headache treatment.

Implications

The DoloTest is a potential HRQoL monitoring instrument for headache patients. We recommend further validation studies.
Formen und Funktionen von Polemik in den Briefen Augustins: Versuch einer Klassifikation
Authors: Tornau Christian
Published: June 2018

Due to the conventions of late-antique epistolary politeness, it is not always easy to identify polemical passages in Augustine’s correspondence. The present contribution attempts to discern and classify some recurrent techniques and strategies that are characteristic of letters the addressee of which is him- or herself the target of Augustine’s polemics, i. e. in which polemical rhetoric is blended with diplomacy. After describing some more formal techniques, such as polemical hermeneutics and Refraintechnik, I turn to the rhetorical, i. e. persuasive, functions of polemics in Augustine’s anti-pagan, anti-Donatist and anti-Pelagian letters, using the basic distinction between direct polemics (polemics against the addressee in person) and indirect polemics (polemics against the addressee’s group or friends) as a starting point. Another relevant distinction, taken into account throughout, is whether a polemical letter is primarily designed to impress the immediate addressee or to have an effect on the wider readership that Augustine had to reckon with as soon as a letter was dispatched.
Grußformeln als Medium der Polemik in Augustins Briefen
Authors: Nunn Christopher Alexander
Published: June 2018

The analysis of salutations is often disregarded because they are said to be later additions of copyists or at least conventional phrases without any content. But the correspondence of Augustine suggests that the bishop himself composed the recorded salutations and that he even added a subtext in many cases. The survey sheds light on elements, development, and different functions of salutations in order to show that, at least in Augustine’s correspondence, an analysis of the salutations is a valuable resource to describe not only the social differences between sender and recipient, but also the atmosphere, the reason for writing, and the correspondents’ relationship to each other.
Polemik, Unfreundlichkeit und Invektivität in den Briefen des Hieronymus am Beispiel der jovinianischen Kontroverse
Authors: Schaaf Ingo
Published: June 2018

Unfriendly modes of communication are integral parts of theological controversy in the Early Church. As some of the most notorious examples in this regard, the works written by Jerome of Stridon offer plentiful features of polemic ranging from relatively subtle forms of unfriendliness to open invective. Particularly well suited for a comparative reading is a group of three letters from Jerome’s pen dating to a time when the Jovinian controversy had reached yet another climactic point. Closely related to one another, since both their recipients count among Jerome’s supporters in Rome, these letters (48, 49, and 50 Hilberg) serve as case studies of epistolary polemic in Late Antiquity inviting comparison with other patristic authors, as well.
Iminiumsalz-Strukturen bei der durch Pyridoxalphosphat (Vitamin B6) katalysierten Bildung von Aromastoffen und Fehlaromen im Wein
Authors: Müller Nikolaus
Published: June 2018

Enzymes that use pyridoxal phosphate (PLP, Vitamin B6) as cofactor constitute a ubiquitous class of biocatalysts. A variety of PLP-dependant enzymes mainly involved in biochemical pathways concerning amino acid metabolism are found in all forms of life. These enzymes also play an important role in wine production, as well in grape growing as in enological processes. The formation of pleasant aroma compounds often runs with participation of pyridoxal-dependant enzymes. But these are also brought into context with the formation of off-odors, especially from sulfur compounds (i.e. sulfur containing amino acids cysteine, methionine). The versatility of PLP-dependant bioreactions arises from its ability to covalently bind the substrate and then to function as an electrophilic catalyst, thereby stabilizing different types of carbanionic reaction intermediates, containing iminium salt structures. This article summarizes the influence of PLP on sensorically important aroma compounds in wine growing and wine processing.
Evaluation of Steel Slag Powder as Filler in Hot-Mix Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Wu Bangwei , Liu Liping , Feng Yanjin
Published: June 2018

Steel slag has been used as an aggregate for asphalt mixtures for many years, but its excessive volume expansion has limited its wide applicability. With the development of steel-making technology, a considerable amount of steel slag powder (SSP) was produced in Shanghai. The objective of this article is to evaluate the feasibility of using SSP as a filler in hot-mix asphalt mixtures (HMAs), with the aim to eliminate the volume expansion of steel slag asphalt mixture while retaining good pavement performance. First, a common AC-13 mixture was designed with limestone aggregate and mineral filler. Then, 25, 50, 75, and 100 % of the limestone mineral filler in the AC-13 was replaced by SSP, according to the volume ratio, respectively. The asphalt content was kept constant in this process. Then the volume expansion property, rutting resistance property, low temperature property, moisture property, and failure property of the asphalt mixtures were checked. According to the test results, the AC-13 that used SSP exhibited negligible volume expansion, while other properties were better than those of the common AC-13, especially the rutting resistance and moisture properties. The test results also showed that the higher the replacement ratio of SSP, the greater the effect on the properties of the asphalt mixtures. Finally, it was concluded that SSP could replace mineral filler in asphalt concrete (AC) with better pavement performances and acceptable volume expansion.
Best Practices in Responsible Land Use for Improving Biodiversity at a Utility-Scale Solar Facility
Authors: Sinha Parikhit , Hoffman Beth , Sakers John , Althouse LynneDee
Published: June 2018

Development of a utility-scale solar photovoltaic project involves management of various potential environmental impacts, including impacts on wildlife and habitat. Although solar facility construction activities do involve short-term disturbance, responsibly developed solar power plants can provide shelter, protection, and stable use of land to support biodiversity. Land use practices and their relationship to biodiversity are examined at one of the world’s largest solar facilities, the 550 MW Topaz Solar Farms project in San Luis Obispo County, CA, USA. Pre- and postconstruction biological monitoring data indicate similar to higher vegetation productivity on-site compared to reference sites. Postconstruction monitoring has documented the presence of dozens of wildlife species, including several with special conservation status. Best practices in responsible land use utilized in the Topaz project are specified in the categories of community, biology, water, design and construction, and end of life. These practices, as well as future solar project development innovations that reduce ground disturbance, can be applied to enhance biodiversity at other solar facilities.
ENHANCED BIODEGRADATION OF HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT PAHS USING YEAST CONSORTIA IMMOBILIZED ON MODIFIED BIOWASTE MATERIAL
Authors: Kumar Mandal Sanjeeb , Das Nilanjana
Published: June 2018

The degradation of high molecular weight (HMW) polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) viz. benzo[a]pyrene, perylene and benzo[ghi]perylene in soil was studied using yeast consortia immobilized on various conventional matrices and biowaste materials. Enhanced biodegradation was noted using yeast consortia immobilized in sawdust powder (SDP) which was chemically modified (M-SDP). The chemical modification destroyed the benzene rings in the cellulose and improved the porosity of SDP by decreasing the crystallinity of the biomass. The physicochemical properties of M-SDP were characterized with SEM, EDAX analysis, FTIR analysis, X-ray diffraction and TGA analysis. Application of M-SDP showed enhanced degradation of benzo[a]pyrene (82.5%) followed by perylene (75.1%) and benzo[ghi]perylene (63.4%) after 40 days of incubation. The results of kinetic study demonstrated that HMW PAHs degradation in soil fitted the first order kinetic model. It can be concluded that chemically modified SDP can serve as potential immobilization matrix for supporting pollutant-degrading yeast consortia which can be employed for effective degradation of HMW PAHs.
Neurofibroma del hipogloso en un niño colombiano. Reporte de caso
Authors: Niño-Nuván Fabián Camilo , Gómez-Rueda Paola Andrea , Lozano-Triana Carlos Javier , Quintero Edna Margarita
Published: June 2018

Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino de 14 años de edad, con antecedente de dos intervenciones quirúrgicas debidas a la presencia de una masa a nivel sublingual —la primera a los 8 meses de edad y la segunda a los 13 años— y sin información de estudios histopatológicos. Cerca de 8 meses después de la última intervención quirúrgica es valorado por el Servicio de Cirugía Maxilofacial de la Fundación Hospital Pediátrico de La Misericordia en Bogotá D.C., Colombia, por crecimiento acelerado de la misma lesión y por problemas en la deglución y el lenguaje. En la revisión del paciente se encuentra una masa importante sublingual, dificultad en el lenguaje, deformidad mandibular y alteraciones en la mordida, por lo que se decide intervenir quirúrgicamente de nuevo. El resultado de la biopsia es un tumor mesenquimal benigno característico de neurofibroma, que por su ubicación sugiere probable compromiso del nervio hipogloso.
Perfil y carga de la enfermedad de personas con cáncer gástrico sometidas a gastrectomía
Authors: Carrillo Gloria Mabel , Bayona Herman Arnulfo , Arias Edier Mauricio
Published: June 2018

Introducción. Los tratamientos quirúrgicos del cáncer gástrico implican adaptaciones a un nuevo estilo de vida ligado a la limitación que pueden ocasionar carga.Objetivos. Determinar el perfil y la carga de adultos con cáncer gástrico que han sido sometidos a gastrectomía en una institución de oncología en Bogotá.Materiales y métodos. Estudio de abordaje cuantitativo y corte transversal que incluyó 60 pacientes con cáncer gástrico posgastrectomía, en su mayoría hombres de estratos socioeconómicos bajos y mínimos niveles de escolaridad, con una edad promedio de 56.33 años. Se utilizó una encuesta de caracterización y el instrumento carga de la enfermedad para el paciente.Resultados. Predomina el adenocarcinoma gástrico intestinal avanzado y la gastrectomía total como cirugía de elección que genera mayor carga. Se identifica alta carga emocional por angustia, tristeza e incertidumbre y baja carga física por síntomas como molestias gastrointestinales, agotamiento y debilidad. Las dificultades económicas y la alteración del rol laboral generan carga sociofamiliar y cultural. Hay relación inversa y estadísticamente significativa entre el estado funcional del paciente y el agotamiento, la fatiga, la alteración del equilibrio y las alteraciones del sueño.Conclusiones. Los sobrevivientes de cáncer gástrico posgrastectomía presentan carga emocional, sociofamiliar y cultural que requiere ser atendida.
Relación entre salud y deporte escolar desde una perspectiva intercultural, un estudio multicaso
Authors: Carter-Thuillier Bastian , López-Pastor Víctor , Gallardo-Fuentes Francisco
Published: June 2018

Introducción. La salud y el deporte configuran prácticas, creencias y relaciones culturales particulares en cada contexto.Objetivo. Analizar las creencias de estudiantes inmigrantes y mapuche-huilliche sobre la relación entre deporte escolar y salud.Materiales y métodos. Se desarrolló un estudio multicaso cualitativo con enfoque etnográfico. Participaron 71 sujetos subdivididos en dos grupos: uno constituido por estudiantes inmigrantes que participaban de un programa de deporte escolar con principios comprensivos de enseñanza en España (n=47) y otro compuesto por alumnos de la etnia Mapuche-Huilliche que participaban de un programa análogo en Chile (n=24). Para la recolección de datos se aplican tres entrevistas colectivas a cada grupo.Resultados. Ambos colectivos perciben una asociación positiva entre la participación en deporte escolar y el desarrollo de la salud en diferentes dimensiones. Existen diferencias respecto a la interpretación cultural que ambos grupos otorgan al concepto salud y sus posibles relaciones con el deporte escolar. Sin embargo, en ambos contextos existen situaciones en que se considera de forma parcial la cultura de los estudiantes para trabajar sobre estos temas.Conclusiones. Estudiantes inmigrantes y mapuche-huilliche establecen creencias positivas sobre la relación entre deporte escolar y desarrollo de salud en sus diferentes manifestaciones.
Contribución de la terapia psicomotriz al progreso de niños con discapacidades
Authors: Heron-Flores Marguerite , Gil-Madrona Pedro , Sáez-Sánchez Maria Belén
Published: June 2018

Introducción. Independiente a la edad, la psicomotricidad incide en el desarrollo de las personas, por lo que es un aspecto de interés para profesionales de la salud, la rehabilitación, la educación y los servicios sociales.Objetivo. Determinar en qué medida un programa psicomotor de intervención, implementado en niños con diferentes discapacidades, contribuye a la mejoría de dichos trastornos psicomotores y a su adaptación en el medio ambiente.Materiales y métodos. Se implementó un diseño pre y post evaluación enmarcado en el paradigma de Mixed Methods, con programa de intervención durante 7 meses y con 13 participantes con diferentes niveles de trastornos psicomotores. Los instrumentos de medida fueron test psicomotores cuantitativos, hojas de registro de observación y cuestionarios y entrevistas cualitativas a las familias.Resultados. Tras la aplicación del programa se producen mejoras en la evolución psicomotriz de los niños en el esquema corporal, en la coordinación dinámica general, en la estructuración espacial, en la motricidad fina y en la adaptación del niño al medio ambiente.Conclusiones. Es necesario que las terapias utilizadas en personas con discapacidades presenten una visión holística de la persona, atendiendo tanto los aspectos motores como psicológicos.
Aprovechamiento de energía, cinemática y estabilidad en la marcha de un paciente con amputación transfemoral sin abordaje de rehabilitación
Authors: Fábrica Gabriel , Peña Iliana , Silva-Pereyra Valentina , Ramos-Arim Virginia
Published: June 2018

Introducción. Los pacientes con amputación de miembros inferiores presentan marcadas asimetrías en la marcha, las cuales pueden aumentar cuando no se cumple con un adecuado proceso de rehabilitación, comprometiendo los objetivos fundamentales de la marcha e incrementando factores de riesgo.Objetivo. Analizar el grado de aprovechamiento de energía mecánica, la estabilidad dinámica y las variables cinemáticas de interés clínico en la marcha de un paciente con amputación transfemoral que no realizó el proceso de rehabilitación.Materiales y métodos. Con base en una reconstrucción 3D, se cuantificaron valores angulares para cadera, rodilla y tobillo y se estimó el intercambio de energía mecánica y la estabilidad dinámica en tres velocidades de marcha diferentes.Resultados. Se observaron variaciones en los parámetros espaciotemporales con el cambio de la velocidad que no son consistentes con los encontrados en otros estudios de amputados. Los valores angulares, principalmente a nivel de rodilla y tobillo, presentan asimetrías que se pueden asociar con una disminución en el aprovechamiento de energía mecánica mientras aumenta la estabilidad en diferentes velocidades.Conclusión. El uso de prótesis en las condiciones en las que fue realizada la evaluación compromete la recuperación de energía mecánica en la marcha del paciente.
El esprúe tropical, una enfermedad olvidada como diagnóstico diferencial de la enfermedad celiaca.
Authors: De Benedictis-Serrano Ginno Alessandro , Contreras-Lugo Laura , Córdova-Rivas Génesys , Ríos-González Carlos Miguel
Published: June 2018

Estimado editor, Por medio de la presente nos gustaría traer a discusión la importancia que tiene la enfermedad celiaca (EC), también conocida como esprúe celiaco o enteropatía sensible al gluten, la cual corresponde a una enfermedad autoinmune desencadenada por la ingesta de gluten en individuos predispuestos genéticamente (1). La EC se caracteriza por una amplia variabilidad de manifestaciones clínicas, pero su forma clásica es la más habitual en el adulto; aquí los síntomas guía son de naturaleza gastrointestinal (diarrea, esteatorrea y dolor abdominal inespecífico). Por otro lado, las formas no clásicas y silentes son cada vez más frecuentes y se caracterizan por un amplio abanico de signos y síntomas como osteoporosis, hipovitaminosis D, anemia ferropénica, dermatitis herpetiforme, ataxia, polineuropatía sensitiva periférica, migrañas y alteración de las pruebas de función hepática (2).
Processamento de estruturas coordenadas com elipse no Português Brasileiro
Authors: Da Silva Andressa Christine Oliveira , Fonseca Aline Alves , De Carvalho Laís Lagreca
Published: June 2018

Este trabalho investiga o processamento de dois tipos de sentenças coordenadas: (1) estrutura coordenada de objeto (nongapping), Alice assou bolos pras amigas e biscoitos pra sua prima; e (2) estrutura coordenada de sujeito (gapping), Alice assou bolos pras amigas e Camila pra sua prima. Conduzimos três testes: um questionário em que os participantes ranqueavam suas preferências de completação da oração principal “Alice assou bolos para as amigas e...”, e dois testes de self-paced reading em que medimos o tempo de reação à leitura do DP que aparece depois da conjunção “e” e do PP que segue o DP e desfaz uma possível ambiguidade. Esta pesquisa foi inspirada pelos trabalhos de Carlson (2001, 2002), que investigou o processamento dessas estruturas no inglês. Os resultados dos três experimentos sugerem que nem sempre a construção mais simples do ponto de vista estrutural (nongapping) é o input mais simples para o parser.
O que a Neurociência tem a nos dizer (ou ainda não) sobre o processamento da metáfora?
Authors: Forneck Kári Lúcia
Published: June 2018

As pesquisas com neuroimagem acerca do processamento da metáfora apresentam achados distintos, o que implica dificuldades na formulação de um paradigma teórico de base neurológica da metáfora. Neste estudo, argumentamos que a falta de clareza de aspectos conceituais sobre a metáfora sob uma perspectiva linguística implica diversidades no desenho dos experimentos e incongruências nos achados. Para sustentar esse argumento, apresentamos uma análise qualitativa de um corpus composto por 20 experimentos com neuroimagem acerca do processamento da metáfora sob dois aspectos: os fundamentos conceituais de metáfora e os achados obtidos nos experimentos. Verificamos que a ausência de um diálogo entre  Neurociência e Linguística sobre as propriedades da metáfora resulta numa delimitação problemática de um padrão de processamento da metáfora sob um viés neurológico.
Analysis of Inter Area Power System Oscillation using Eigenvalue Method
Authors: ALMa’aitah Mohammad A. , Sweidan Tha’er O. , Abuashour Mohammed I , Al-Hattab Mohammed
Published: June 2018

One of the power system crucial problems for stability is the oscillation at low frequencies. The low frequency oscillation (LFO) is a small signal stability of the power system and has a passive impact on the maximum power transfer (load flow) in power systems. The inter area oscillation using eigenvalue method is presented and analyzed by modeling and linearizing the system around the operating point. This paper introduces the inter area oscillation using Eigen value method by presenting and discussing a proposed power system of two-area, 4-machine into two different cases: The first case is the system running without power system stabilizer, and the second case is to deploy the power system stabilizer firstly in area 1 afterwards area 2 and finally in the two areas at the same time. The advantage of the damping of oscillations is found clearly in the system ability to increase the tie-line power flowing in the proposed system. All simulations results are carried out using MATLAB software.
Investigating the nexus between Non-Performing Loans in the Nigerian Banking System and Lending to Micro-Small Medium Enterprises
Authors: Akpan Umoren, Aniefiok , Okon Eyo, Emmanuel , Brownson Akpan, Sunday
Published: June 2018

Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) constitute vital ingredients for the lubrication of the development process of any economy. Therefore, Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises are bedrocks of emerging economies as they exact vital roles in promoting and sustaining growth and development.  However, in Nigeria MSMEs are facing myriad of challenges and difficulties in funding their activities. Rising trends in Non-performing loans (NPLs) adversely affected availability of loans and advances to economic agents in the Nigerian economy thereby constraining financial intermediation and economic activities hence growth. The study investigated the nexus existing between NPLs in the Nigerian banking system and lending to MSMEs sub-sector in Nigeria from 1981-2015. Time series data used in the study were collected from annual statistical bulletin of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). These data were subjected to descriptive and inferential methods. The results of the graphical presentations indicated irregular fluctuations in NPLs. The graphs indicated positive trends in respect to lending to MSMEs and the productivity of MSMEs. The estimated OLS results showed negative nexus between non-performing loans and lending to MSMEs. This negative nexus led to concomitant low MSMEs productivity in Nigeria. The study recommended that CBN should increase its financial surveillance over the sectors and also ensure timely resolutions of the NPLs challenges CBN should increase arrays of financial intervention that would address paucity in funds in the MSMEs sub-sector
Development of Antiresorptive Agent-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw After Dental Implant Removal: A Case Report
Authors: Yamamoto Shinsuke , Maeda Keigo , Kouchi Izumi , Hirai Yuzo , Taniike Naoki , Yamashita Daisuke , Imai Yukihiro , Takenobu Toshihiko
Published: June 2018

Dental implant treatment is a highly predictable therapy, but when potentially lethal symptoms or complications occur, dentists must remove the implant fixture. Recently, reports on antiresorptive agent-related osteonecrosis of the jaw have increased in the field of dental implants, although the relationship between dental implant treatment and antiresorptive agents remains unclear. Here, we report a case of antiresorptive agent-related osteonecrosis of the jaw that developed after dental implant removal. A 67-year-old Japanese woman with a medical history of osteoporosis and 7 years of oral bisphosphonate treatment was referred to our hospital with a chief complaint of painful right mandibular bone exposure. A family dentist removed the dental implants from the right mandible using a trephine drill without flap elevation in August 2016. However, the healing was impaired; she was referred to our hospital 3 months after the procedure. We performed a sequestrectomy of the mandible under general anesthesia. In conclusion, this patient's course has two important implications: First, the removal of dental implants from patients who are prescribed oral bisphosphonates for long durations can cause antiresorptive agent-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. Second, meticulous procedures are required to prevent and treat the development of antiresorptive agent-related osteonecrosis of the jaw after dental implant removal.
Gestão de resíduos de equipamentos elétricos e eletrônicos em Maringá/PR
Authors: Callefi Mario Henrique Bueno Moreira , Barbosa Willyan Prado
Published: June 2018

O aumento do consumo de Equipamentos Elétricos e Eletrônicos (EEE) atrelado com a diminuição da vida útil desses produtos, influenciam significativamente para o aumento da quantidade gerada de lixo eletroeletrônico. Nos países desenvolvidos já existem diversas leis que proíbem o uso de diversas substancias tóxicas nos EEE e também instituem a responsabilidade estendida para os fabricantes. No Brasil a lei mais importante referente a gestão de REEE é a Política Nacional de Resíduos Sólidos, a qual institui a obrigatoriedade da logística reversa para os fabricantes, importadores, distribuidores e comerciantes de EEE. O objetivo do presente estudo é realização da análise da gestão dos REEE no município de Maringá/PR, por meio de um estudo de caso em uma cooperativa de reciclagem de “lixo eletroeletrônico”. Para o levantamento de dados foi desenvolvido um questionário com doze questões referentes as atividades da cooperativa. A observação no local e entrevistas com os integrantes da cooperativa possibilitou que o questionário fosse respondido e consequentemente foi possível identificar aspectos inerentes da gestão de REEE no município de Maringá/PR.
In vitro comparison of the immediate adhesive strength in dentin of three universal adhesive systems.
Authors:   Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, UPC. Lima, Perú., Acurio-Benavente Mariana , Kinoshita-Rivas Haru ,   Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, UPC. Lima, Perú., Acurio-Benavente Paloma , Casas-Apayco Leslie ,   Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, UPC. Lima, Perú.
Published: June 2018

Objective: To compare the adhesive strength in dentin of three universal adhesive systems in vitro by means of the shear test. Materials and methods: Seventy-five bovine teeth were selected and cut. Dentin was exposed from the buccal surface of the crowns with 220 grit sandpaper, and samples were then inserted in transparent acrylic bases (15x10mm). The samples were randomly divided in 3 groups (n=25): G1-Universal adhesive system Scotchbond™ Universal (3M ESPE-USA); G2- Universal adhesive system Peak Universal Bond (Ultradent); G3-Universal adhesive system Tetric N-Bond (Ivoclar Vivadent). The adhesive procedures were carried out according to the instructions of each manufacturer and the restorative procedures were carried out with micro-cylinders (made of Tygon type tubing 0.79x1.5mm) of the composite resin Filtek™ Z350XT-A2 (3M ESPE-USA). The samples were incubated at 37ºC (+/-5ºC) for 24 hours. Adhesive strength was evaluated in a universal test machine by means of the shear test (0.5mm/min, 500N) and the resulting fracture type was evaluated with a Dinolite digital microscope (x200). The results were analyzed by descriptive statistics (Mean±SD), and inferential statistics by a one-way ANOVA. Results: No statistically significant differences were found between the universal adhesive systems evaluated G1 (14.91±4.76), G2 (16.90±4.11) and G3 (17.34±4.04)/(p=0.114). Conclusions: The shear test resulted in similar values of immediate adhesive strength of the three universal adhesive systems used.
Postkoloniale teologie en die sending: Uitdagings en bedreigings
Authors: Verster P
Published: June 2018

Die heersende debat oor die postkoloniale teologie is vir die sending van groot belang. Die groot sendingprojek van die negentiende en twintigste eeue het dikwels ten nouste met kolonialisme, wat tans sterk gekritiseer word, saamgeloop. Alle vorme van magsoorheersing moet volgens verskeie denkers dus afgewys word. Die teologie sluit hierby aan deur aan te toon dat vorme van oorheersing en mag wat in die teologie voorkom, ook afgewys moet word. Eurosentrisme was essensieel deel van kolonialisme en daarmee is die eie stem van die kultuur van byvoorbeeld Afrika misken, word gereken. Die bydrae van Afrika-kognisie en -denke is veral misken. Postkoloniale teologie beteken dat die globale juis te vinde is in die ooreenkomste wat gevind word tussen Jesus Christus en byvoorbeeld die oortuigings van die Afrika Tradisionele Godsdienste. 'n Reformatoriese benadering sal egter krities wees teenoor die postkoloniale teologie en juis 'n teologie van die respek van God beklemtoon, en ook mense oproep tot bekering en die erkenning van Jesus as enigste Here. Daar kan geen twyfel bestaan dat die sending op die voorpunt moet wees om diskriminasie, uitbuiting en miskenning teen te gaan nie, maar dan ook om te bely dat Jesus waarlik EEN met God is.
Comparative assessment of the efficacy of primary and secondary corneal endothelial dystrophy treatment by isolated descemetorhexis and accelerated collagen crosslinking method
Authors: Astakhov Sergey Yu. , Riks Inna A. , Papanyan Sanasar S. , Novikov Sergey A. , Dzhaliashvili Georgiy Z. , Bondareva Irina B.
Published: June 2018

The article examines the efficacy of the authors method of endothelial corneal dystrophy treatment, inclu ding descemetorhexis and accelerated collagen crosslinking. In primary endothelial dystrophy, corneal state improvement and restoration of its transparency were observed in 66.6% of cases (due to migration of endothelial cells from the periphery to the сentral zone). In secondary endothelial dystrophy, the treatment method described in the present article is ineffective, and the reasons for failures are not quite clear and require further investigation.
The state of conjunctival flora and its susceptibility to “Vitabakt” in cataract patients compared to other antibiotics used in ophthalmologic practice
Authors: Pirogov Yuriy I. , Shustrova Tatyana A. , Oblovatskaya Evgeniya S. , Khromova Ekaterina S.
Published: June 2018

The problem of increasing microbial antibiotic resistance antimicrobial requires a detailed study of all antimicrobial drugs spectrum of activity. In the available literature, there are no data on microbial flora in vitro susceptibility to picloxydine.

The aim of this study was to study the conjunctival flora composition and its susceptibility to antimicrobial drugs in patients before phacoemulsification, and to detect the conjunctival flora sensitivity to picloxydine in the postoperative period.

Materials and methods. Before phacoemulsification, 117 swabs (116 patients) were taken from the conjunctiva before any drop instil lation. All swabs were examined using the routine cultural method and 14 antibiotics-panel susceptibility testing. Picloxydine susceptibility was tested four times during the postoperative period in 28 patients.

Results. In 66.7%, bacterial growth was obtained preoperatively. All isolates were gram-positive, St. epidermidis was found most frequently (78.8%). In 1 hour after surgery, bacterial growth was obtained in 27.6%. Fluoroquinolones, linezolid, and picloxydine revealed highest efficacy toward St. epidermidis and St. aureus.

Conclusion. Moxifloxacin, linezolid, and picloxydine turned out to be the most effective antimicrobial drugs. Сonjunctival flora was detected in 1 hour after phacoemulsification. Сonjunctival flora remains sensitive to picloxydine during 1 month in the postoperative period.
Perspective of Teaching Methodologies in Dentistry: Active vs Passive Learning
Authors: Sujitha S. , Sruthy K. , Rajathi P.
Published: June 2018

Education in its general sense is a form of learning, in which knowledge, skills and habits are transferred across generations through teaching. The syllabus and curriculum followed by the dental colleges in training undergraduate and postgraduate students have been set by the Dental Council of India in assuring a minimum standard of quality. The current design of curriculum emphasizes on didactic lectures with inclusion of minimum quota completion as a prerequisite for the student to appear for university examinations. This article comprises of a questionnaire study on obtaining the perspective of teaching methodology in dentistry among staffs and students.
The Continuous Fractional Wavelet Transform on W-Type Spaces
Authors: Kumar Anuj , Upadhyay S. K.
Published: June 2018

An n-dimensional continuous fractional wavelet transform involving n-dimensional fractional Fourier transform is studied and its properties are obtained on Gel'fand and Shilov spaces of type WM(Rn), WΩ (Cn) and WΩM (Cn). It is shown that continuous fractional wavelet transform, WαψΦ : WM(Rn) → WM(Rn × R+), WαψΦ : WΩ (Cn) → WΩ (Cn × R+) and WαψΦ : WΩM (Cn) → WΩM (Cn × R+) are linear and continuous maps, where Rn and Cn are the usual Euclidean spaces.
Pseudo-Differential Operators of Homogeneous Symbol Associated with n-Dimensional Hankel Transformation
Authors: Upadhyay S. K. , Chauhan Manmohan Singh
Published: June 2018

The characterizations of pseudo-differential operators L(x,D) and H(x,D) associated with the homogeneous symbol l(x; ξ), involving Hankel transformation are investigated by using the theory of n-dimensional Hankel transform.
Epidemiologic, clinical findings and risk factors of recurrent herpes labialis in healthy adult patients: a case-control study
Authors: Nassaji Mohammad , Ghorbani Raheb , Taheri Ramin , AZİZZADEH Maryam , ABBASSYAN Fatemeh
Published: June 2018

Objectives: Herpes labialis is a common viral infection and
characterized by recurrent vesicular lesion primarily on the lips and perioral
skin. The
aim of this study was to determine the epidemiological, clinical characteristics and trigger
factors associated with recurrence
herpes labialis
in adult patients. Methods:
This case-control study was
conducted with the participation of one hundred adult patients and the same
number of control. Data collected about demographics, clinical, as well as
trigger factors from individuals
who met inclusion criteria. Results:
Seventy-four percent of cases and 34% of controls were female that showed
significant difference (p <
0.001). Mean body mass index of patients was significantly higher than controls
(25.9 ± 2.9 kg/m2 versus 22.0 ± 2.9 kg/m2, p < 0.001). The most common location of the
lesions during the last episode of infection was upper lip (65%). The number of lesions was single
in 58% and multiple in 42% of patients. The frequency of
episodes per year was more than two attacks each year in most patients (83%). Positive family history of recurrence
herpes labialis
was found in 50% and 20% of cases and controls respectively (p < 0.001). Emotional stress (61%), sunlight exposure (54%) and flu
(37%)
were the main triggering factors reported by the patients.Conclusions: This study revealed that recurrence herpes
labialis is more common in women and on the upper lip. Family history of recurrence herpes
labialis was positive significantly in patients. The most common trigger
factors were stress,
sunlight exposure, flu. Higher body mass index was a probable risk factors for recurrence herpes
labialis.
Studies on sensory attributes and microbial analysis of stored osmo dehydrated bilimbi (Averroha bilimbi)
Authors: Aparna G. S. , Lekshmi P.R. Geetha , Mini C. , Chandran Thushara T.
Published: June 2018

A study was undertaken during 2015-2017 to study the sensory evaluation and microbial analysis of selected osmo dehydrated bilimbi treatments during storage. Osmo dehydrated bilimbi in 600Brix for 180 minutes and 80 0Brix for an immersion time of 120 and 180 minutes were packed using polypropylene packaging material and stored at ambient temperature for a period of four months. Minimum fungal count (2.42 cfu/g) and bacterial count (2.53 cfu/g) was recorded for bilimbi osmosed in 800B for 180 minutes. Bilimbi osmo dehydrated in 800 Brix for 180 minutes recorded highest sensory score for taste (8.17), texture (8.17) and flavor (7.97) and overall acceptability (8.17) after four months of storage. All the treatments were microbiologically safe and acceptable during the storage.
Some complementary perspectives in understanding the axiological universe of teachers
Authors: Venera-Mihaela Cojocariu
Published: June 2018

The values in which teachers believe express the philosophy of education to which they adhere. Our study is based on two related dimensions: the study of the specialised literature and the conclusions of some studies that we have conducted in the last 5 years regarding the values in which the teachers at different stages of the Romanian education system believe. Its purpose: to identify significant perspectives for the complementary analysis of the teacherâ€™s axiological universe. We identified, developed and systematised the following perspectives: contemporary world and the dimension of values; initial and continuous teacher training and the issue of values; on axiological self-reflexivity and its effects and the transfer of values and the holistic evolution of the teacher. The conclusions reinforce the teacherâ€™s hypostasis as reflexive practitioner with profound implications, both on the day-to-day performance of the instructive-educational process and on the reconsideration of the coordinates of their initial/continuing training.

Keywords: Values, teacherâ€™s axiological universe, reflexive practitioner.
The administrative factors affecting school effectiveness of municipal schools in Udon Thani Province
Authors: Sroinam Somkid
Published: June 2018

School effectiveness is a main goal of all schools because it means organisational success that must be achieved. This study explored the level of the administrative factors and school effectiveness including investigated administrative factors effecting the management of school effectiveness. The 5-level rating scale questionnaire was applied for collecting data from 217 teachers in municipal schools in Udon Thani province, Thailand. The descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient and stepwise multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. The research findings indicated that the school culture, technology, school climate and budgeting were the best predictors. This may lead to policy of developing the school administration to achieve the school goals.

Keywords: School effectiveness, school factor, municipal schools.
Interesting textual tasks as creative tools
Authors: Gogovska Valentina
Published: June 2018

This study aims to promote the use of interesting textual tasks during everyday mathematics classes, especially during solving exercises. Consequently, this should contribute to the possibility for students to obtain long-lasting knowledge while stimulating the process of creative thinking and understanding. Further to encourage students to investigate mathematical concepts on a deeper, more creative level, we use rich and interesting problems that can be explored on a variety of levels. This process should be well planned, though-out and specified. Well-chosen tasks and discussion can not only improve and empower the process of individualisation and differentiation during doing mathematics but also stimulate the process of creative thinking and motivate students in their current learning. These interesting tasks can be solved in a variety of ways and students should be given a chance to explain their reasoning to each other. One interesting task can be used as a springboard for several others.

Keywords: Teaching legal translation, ESP, ESL, error analysis.