bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perkembangan Paradigma Epistemologi dalam Filsafat Islam
Authors: Mufid Fathul
Published: February 2016

Based on historical reports, Islamic epistemology paradigm has evolved from time to time bringing different schools each other. This paper aims at revealing such differences. Methods employed are philosophical Literary Review where compiled data are analyzed inductively to formulate theoretical constructions. Research findings reveal that peripatetic philosophers highlight their mind as a dominant tool to gain knowledge using demonstrative method (burhānī).Whilst illuminative philosophers, ‘irfāniyyīn, and Sufis believe that knowledge can only be derived from mystical intuition after purification of the heart (qalb) trough practices (riyāḍah). Different schools such as ones held by Mulla Sadra and Abed al-Jabiri are based on those distinctive principles.
Konsep Sufisme ‘Shakhs-i Manevi dan Hizmet’ Muhammad Fethullah Gülen
Authors: Al-Kumayi Sulaiman
Published: February 2016

This article examines the concept of shakh-i manevi and hizmet that are introduced by contemporary Turk Sufi ulama Muhammad Fethullah Gulen. Through this concept, Gulen attempts to encourage personal spirituality to transform gradually into collective personality. By this he means that this process should involve relevant parts of sufi teaching and integrate them directly into a community. This effort envisions a prototype of idealized community that hizmet should uphold. In this community, the followers of his movement work hand in hand to offer social services to the people regardless of their backgrounds.
Madrasah Unggulan Berbasis Pesantren
Authors: Siswanto Siswanto
Published: February 2016

In the context of rapid social changes, can be considered alternative and outstanding Indonesian Islamic education institution. This article is aimed at analyzing opportunities and threats faced in the development of the madrasah, especially, those are located in pesantren, and so called pesantren-based madrasah. It is recommended that the development of pesantren-based madrasah have to fit the criteria of alternative education. It must be directed toward the creation of excellent and competitive Islamic school that will produce qualified human resources, who master not only religion but also science and technology inspired by Islamic values. Pesantren has become a center of excellence for human resources development that emphasizes morality for society development. Thus, the idea to realize a high-ranking madrasa in the boarding school is directed toward the integration of excellent intellectualism and skill with the excellent religious knowledge, including the excellence of personality, faith and piety.
Effects of Salt Stress on Cell Surface Properties and Symbiotic Performance of Root Nodulating Bacteria
Authors: Ashok Kumar Singh  , Gauri Singh  , Rajendra Prasad Bhatt
Published: February 2016

In the current study fifty root nodulating bacterial strains isolated from Cicer arietinum (Chickpea) and Vigna radiata (Mungbean) nodules were subjected to different NaCl concentrations. Out of these 20 salt tolerant isolates were selected for the production of cell surface component like β-glucan, lipopolysaccharide, exopolysaccharide and motility under salt stress condition. Symbiotic performance of Vigna radiata and Cicer arietinum were done under salt stress condition by using 4 isolates (CMR3,CMR13,MR5.MR11) which showed the tolerant behavior in all cell surface properties and one sensitive isolate (MR30) was used for comparision.All growth parameters of selected  legumes were enhanced at 5% salt concentration as compare to control in CMR3,CMR13,MR5.MR11. A decline in all parameters was observed in isolate that does not show good cell surface components under salt stress. This shows the inhibition of cell surface properties under salt stress, affects the symbiotic performance of both parameters negatively. The present study concludes that under salt stress conditions, tolerant strains successfully overcome the stressful environmental conditions by maintaining the factors, essential for symbiosis in an ideal system.
Protective Effects of Montelukast and L-Carnitine on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Lung Injury
Authors: Emad H.M. Hassanein  , Amira M. ABO-Youssef  , Basim A.S. Messiha  , Ramadan A.M. Hemeida
Published: February 2016

The major aim of this work was to study the protective effects of the cysteinyl-leukotriene antagonist montelukast (ML) and L-Carnitine (LC) against cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced pulmonary injury in experimental rats. Thirty adult male albino rats were categorized at random into five groups of 6 rats each. The first group served as normal control group. All other groups were injected once with CP (150 mg/kg, i.p.). The second group was kept as CP toxicity control group The third group was injected with ML (10 mg/kg/day, i.p.) once daily for 10 consecutive days before CP injection. The fourth group received LC (250 mg/kg/day, i.p.) once daily for 10 consecutive days before CP injection. The fifth group received ML plus LC once daily for 10 consecutive days before CP injection. The protective effects of these drugs were evaluated by assessment of lung  glutathione reduced (GSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and nitrite (NO2-) levels as oxidative and nitrosative stress biomarkers. This is in addition to assessment of serum levels of cyclooxygenase-II (COX-II) and lipooxygenase (LOX) as inflammatory parameters. Histopathological study was performed to confirm results of biochemical estimations. Pretreatment with ML, LC and their combinations effectively increased the levels of GSH and antioxidant enzyme GST and SOD in comparison with CP control rats Moreover, the serum activities of inflammatory enzymes COX-2 and LOX markedly decreased. In addition, ML, LC and their combinations effectively alleviated histopathological changes in lung tissue induced by CP. The results of this investigation show that ML, LC and their combination are true protective agents against CP-induced pulmonary injury in rats and may be promising for further clinical trials.
Effects of Atorvastatin and Streptozocin on Immunohistochemical Markers in Hippocampus of Male Adult Rats
Authors: Mustafa G. Al-Abbassi  , Mustafa Ibraheem  , Alaa Al-hindawi  , Saba I. Salih
Published: February 2016

In addition to the lipid lowering activity, statins act positively as a neuro-protective agent in some clinical cases such as Alzheimer’s disease, brain injury, ischemia and seizures. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder representing the most common cause of dementia in the elderly population. Central STZ administration developed numerous behavioral, neurochemical and structural features that resembled those found in human Alzheimer’s disease. The results of the present study showed a significant increase in the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein in the groups of rats administered intrathecal injection of streptozocin when put side by side with the control one. A reduction in this marker observed in the group administered  20 mg/kg atorvastatin combined with a single intrathecal injection of streptozocin when compared to group taken streptozocin alone. Anti-oxidant state represented by glutathione reductase showed a significant increase in the expression of this marker in the groups that administered 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg atorvastatin after intrathecal injection of streptozocin in compared with the group administered streptozocin alone. However, a significant reduction in this marker observed in the group administered streptozocin alone when compared with control group. A significant increase in the neuronal nitric oxide synthase enzyme in the hippocampus of rats administered intrathecal injection of streptozocin. Also, a reduction in this marker observed in the groups treated with 10 and 20 mg/kg atorvastatin combined with a single intrathecal injection of streptozocin when put side by side with group taken streptozocin alone. We can conclude from the results that administration of streptozocin intrathecally lead to a model of Alzheimer’s disease indicated by brain damage that may be improved by atorvastatin treatment but in a dose dependent manner.
Evaluation of Lipid Profile, Calcium and Alkaline Phosphatase in Pregnancy Induced Hypertension Women
Authors: Sakina Ruhi  , Jiyauddin Khan  , M. Rosaline  , Syyeda Anees  , Hamid Kazi  , M. Kaleemullah  , Shariq Baber
Published: February 2016

Pregnancy induced hypertension is a main cause of maternal mortality and morbidity . The aim of the present study was destined to evaluate the association of blood Rheology of complicated pre-eclampsia and its comparison with that in normal pregnancy and normal non-pregnant woman. The grouping was done as group I (normal, non-pregnant women) and group II (normal pregnant women) and group III (pregnancy with PIH) Mean age range was 20-35 years. Serum lipid profile, calcium and alkaline phosphatase were monitored in pre-eclampsia, normal pregnant and normal non-pregnant women. The normal pregnancy was associated with significant increase in HDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol, Triglyceride, Alkaline phosphatase, with no significant increase in T. cholesterol and significant decrease in LDL-cholesterol and serum calcium when compared to normal non pregnant woman. A significant rise of total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol, Alkaline phosphatase and fall in HDL-cholesterol and serum calcium was observed with the pre-eclampsia when compared with normal and control groups. Decreased HDL cholesterol and delayed triglyceride clearance and high blood pressure are associated with development of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, this association may be crucial for understanding the pathologic processes of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia and may helpful for prevention.
Ameliorative Effect of Salicin Against Gamma Irradiation Induced Electrophoretic Changes in Brain Tissue in Male Rats
Authors: Mohga Shafik Abdalla  , Hayat Mohamed Sharada  , Ibrahim Abulyazid  , Monira A. Abd El Kader  , Wael Mahmoud Kamel
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the radioprotective effect of salicin against irradiation effect on brain tissue of male rats. Lipid peroxidation level was measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substance in brain tissue. The polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis for native protein, lipoprotein and zymogram were carried out in brain homogenate. As expected, salicin resisted the irradiation effect and declined the MDA level in brain homogenate of all treated groups (especially in the irradiated salicin post-treated group). Salicin minimized the qualitative mutagenic effect of irradiation on the electrophoretic protein pattern in all irradiated salicin treated groups and it showed the highest antagonistic effect against irradiation in irradiated salicin post-treated group (SI = 0.57). It could not prevent the abnormalities occurred qualitatively and quantitatively as a result of irradiation in lipoprotein pattern in all irradiated salicin treated groups. In the electrophoretic esterase pattern, salicin prevented the qualitative effect of irradiation in irradiated salicin post-treated group (SI = 1.00). Salicin minimized the qualitative irradiation effect on the catalase pattern in the irradiated salicin pre-treated group (SI = 0.73). While in the peroxidase pattern, salicin adminstration resisted the irradiation effect in the irrradiated post-treated groups (SI = 0.67). The results suggested the radioprotective ability of salicin against gamma irradiation effect on various electrophoretic patterns in brain tissue of male rats.
A Novel Highly Selective and Sensitive Nano-Molar Cu(I), Cu(II) Modified Carbon Paste Sensors Based on Thiosemicarbazide and Acetaldehydethiosemicarbazone
Authors: Amal Fouad Khorshid  , Ragab R. Amin  , Yousry M. Issa
Published: February 2016

A novel highly selective and sensitive nano Molar Concentration Cu(I) and Cu(II) ion-chemically modified carbon based electrode (CMCPE) based on the metal complexes, [Cu(HTS)(TS)(ac)2].(C2H5OH) or [Cu(ATS)2(ac)(H2O)].(H2O) dissolved in tricresyl phosphate (TCP) as pasting liquid were prepared. The modified electrodes showed Nernstian slopes of 60.5 mV and 29.5±1 mV per decade for Cu(I) or Cu(II) ions over the concentration range 0.012 nM up to 1.0×10−2 M and 0.016 nM up to 7.9×10−3 M and a detection limit of 0.398 and 0.630 nM respectively.  The sensor has a relatively fast response time of < 10 s and it can be used in the pH range of 3.8–8.0. The selectivity coefficients for mono-, di-, and trivalent cations indicate the good selectivity of sensor for Cu (I) and Cu (II) ions over a large number of interfering cations. As a result the proposed electrodes were applied to Cu (I) and Cu (II) ions determination in mixture soutions, waste water samples. The materials [Cu(TS)(HTS)(ac)2].(C2H5OH) and [Cu(ATS)2(ac)(H2O)].(H2O), were isolated by the anodic dissolution of Copper metal in an anhydrous acetone solution of  the ligands where HTS is thiosemicarbazide, HATS is acetaldehydethiosemicarbazone ligand and ac = acetone. Elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility measurements, molar conductance, thermal analysis and spectroscopic techniques has been used for characterization and elucidation for the structure the isolated materials. [Cu(TS)(HTS)(ac)2].(C2H5OH) shows diamagnetic moment which may be arising from anodic dissolution of Cu(I) during the electrolysis of Copper metal during electrochemical preparation.
Secondary metabolites and cytotoxic potential of Lobariella pallida and Stereocaulon strictum var. compressum, two lichens from Colombian páramo region
Authors: Litta Samari Perico-Franco  , Manuel Soriano-García  , Marco A. Cerbón  , Ignacio González-Sánchez  , Norma Angélica Valencia-Islas
Published: February 2016

In order to contribute to the knowledge of the chemical constituents and bioactivity of lichens from Colombian páramo region, methanolic extracts of Lobariella pallida and Stereocaulon strictum var. compressum were submitted to phytochemical and cytotoxic studies. Lobariellin (methyl 3-formyl-2,4-dihydroxy-5,6-dimethylbenzoate) (1), along with methyl orsellinate (2) were isolated from the Lobariella pallida. The active constituents namely porphyrilic acid (3), methyl haematommate (4), methyl β-orcinolcaboxylate (5) and atranorin (6) were isolated from the Stereocaulon strictum. The structures of 1-6 were determined by analysis of their spectroscopic (NMR, IR, UV) and spectrometric data. In addition, the structures of 1, 2 and 3 were unequivocally corroborated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. Neither methanol extracts nor compounds 1, 3, 4 and 6 were cytotoxic to the normal (HaCaT) and transformed (MCF-7, HeLa, K562, PC3) mammalian cell tested, which could be indicative of a possible innocuousness and be helpful in other biomedical usefulness.
Investigation of the Pulmonary Function Tests in Young Adults Smokers
Authors: Saba Ibrahim Salih  , Alaa Adel Al-hindawi
Published: February 2016

In Iraq tobacco smoking is a common habit. The World health organization (WHO) reported that smoking of tobacco was killed about 100 million persons in all the world in the 20th century and it could kill one billion persons over the world in the 21st century. The aim of the present study was to pointed the effect of smoking on respiratory system.

The present study was conducted in the College of Applied Medical Science/University of Karbala from November 2014 to February 2015. 30 healthy male were included in this study and their age were ranged between 19-23 years. Spirometry data of 20 smokers and 10 non-smokers were collected by the computerized spirometer. The results show that pulmonary function tests was significantly reduced in smokers group compare to non-smokers group (p<0.05). The investigation confirming PFT values are less in smokers due to toxic effects of tobacco smoking on respiratory system & is the major cause of obstructive lung disease.
Cigarette Smoking Practices, Perceptions and Awareness of Government Policies among Pharmacy Students in Niger Delta University in South-South Nigeria
Authors: Owonaro Peter A  , Eniojukan Joshua F
Published: February 2016

Despite the growing problem of cigarette use, we still do not have accurate information on the prevalence and pattern in Nigerian adolescents. This study evaluated the smoking habits and associated contextual correlates among pharmacy students in a tertiary institution in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross sectional research was conducted involving 210 students and utilizing pre-tested and validated questionnaires. Data was analyzed with SPSS. 16.  Majority of respondents (66.4%) were aged 21-25 years; the male-female ratio was 1:0.9 and 99.3% were Christians. Smoking prevalence was 12.9% and more prevalent among males; age of smoking debut was 16-20yrs; (46.1%); majority (83.3%) smoked 1-5 sticks of cigarette per day; 16.7% and 33.3% respectively of males and females quitted  smoking at the time of the study. Reasons given for quitting included knowledge of health hazard (100%), to set a new example (83.3%) and as a result of advice from relations and friends (50%); the students exhibited a very positive perception on smoking and its cessation. There were no correlations of smoking habits with age and gender but withthe level of studies. Respondents demonstrated very low levels of awareness of World No Tobacco Day and the Nigeria Tobacco Control Decree. It is strongly advised that more effective campaign strategies be adopted to reach as many young people as possible. The pharmacy curriculum should contain adequate courses on smoking effects and cessation; programmes of student bodies should incorporate tobacco cessation activities. The existing tobacco smoking restrictions and policies should be strengthened and enforced.
Bacteriological Profile and Preservative Capacity of Commercial Creams and Lotions
Authors: Summera Rafiq  , Shameem Iqbal  , Shaik Jasmine Shahina
Published: February 2016

The 15 commercially available cosmetic formulations including creams and lotions were examined in order to verify the degree of possible microbiological contamination. The TVC (Total Viable Count) in unused creams and lotions was ranged between 3X104   to 321X105 CFU/ml. While in used creams it was found to be between 23X104 to 539X106 CFU/ml. The most commonly isolated bacteria were found to be Staphylococcus aureus followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus spp, Klebsiella pneumoniae, E.coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. There was reduction of 99% in the number of bacterial counts in 6 cosmetic creams and lotions as per the Cosmetics, Toiletries, and Fragrance Association (CTFA) methods which were done to detect the efficacy of the preservatives in cosmetics. The other 9 samples had reduced bacterial counts on 7th day but this was followed by the rapid increase of bacterial counts on 14th, 21st and 28th days showing that they were inadequately preserved. Of the 15 cosmetic products which were evaluated by Rapid Challenge Test (RCT), 3 products displayed high CFU values of greater than 102 CFU /ml for  P. aeruginosa and P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853 after 1st and 7th day in three different dilutions therefore they were considered as high contamination risk products. While the remaining 6 products were observed to have rapid decline in bacterial counts after 1st and 7th day in three different dilutions making them medium–low contamination risk products.
Long-term effect of a simple storage protocol on fluorescence fingerprint of dissolved organic matter
Authors: Wang Xuechun , Chen Hao , Lei Kun , Sun Zhong
Published: February 2016

Fitting a pre-established region-specific Parallel Factor Analysis (PARAFAC) model to new dissolved organic matter (DOM) samples has become a popular approach in DOM studies. A key step during the development of the pre-established model is to identify the fluorescence fingerprint, i.e. the number of fluorescent DOM (FDOM) components as well as their excitation and emission spectral features. In practice the samples to use for model development may not be measured immediately after sampling and will instead be stored for a relatively long time, thus raising the question whether the storage would change the intrinsic fingerprints. In this study, two PARAFAC models were separately developed and validated for the same set of surface water DOM samples from an estuary and its river, immediately after sampling and after 9-month storage respectively. The fingerprint did not change after storage, regardless of the change of the intensity of some components. The findings in this study highlighted that DOM samples stored using a simple protocol (i.e. filtration to 0.45 μm pore size without any preservatives and placed at 4 °C in the dark under airtight conditions) for a few months would not change fluorescence fingerprints for PARAFAC and broaden our understanding of the application of PARAFAC to DOM studies.
Antibacterial properties of Ag and Ag/AgCl nanoparticles from radish and tea extracts for water treatment applications
Authors: Boonto Yuphada , Ananpattarachai Jirapat , Kajitvichyanukul Puangrat
Published: February 2016

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have antibacterial properties and are widely used for water disinfection. This technology is commercially applied in point-of-use water treatment as a post-treatment for filtrate water. However, the current process of synthesizing AgNPs has several disadvantages including the use of hazardous chemicals, consumption of a large amount of energy and the formation of hazardous byproducts. Here, we report an alternative and green synthesis using plant extracts. In this work, the plant extracts came from radish (R) and tea (T), and the AgNPs were derived from a microwave irradiation method. The AgNPs synthesized by chemical-based microwave irradiation (Ag-C) were also used as a control material. The novel method produced a smaller size of nanostructures with good dispersion ability and less agglomeration than those from chemical synthesis. The antibacterial properties of AgNPs on Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were investigated. The results revealed that AgNPs from both green synthesis and chemical-based methods inactivated both types of bacteria. The green-synthesized AgNPs from radish juice provided a higher percentage of inhibition of E. coli than that of S. aureus. The inactivation rates of the AgNPs increased with increasing concentration of AgNPs. As the concentration of the Ag/AgCl-R and Ag-R increased from 150 μg/mL to 300 μg/mL, complete inactivation required a reduced time for the reaction from 300 minutes to only 30 minutes. Finally, the Ag/AgCl-R and Ag-R offered high antibacterial activity while the Ag-T provided the lowest antibacterial activity. This work provides an alternative method for the eco-synthesis of antibacterial nanomaterials for water treatment.
Early Requirement for RRT in Children at Presentation in the United Kingdom: Association with Transplantation and Survival
Authors: Pruthi Rishi , Casula Anna , Inward Carol , Roderick Paul , Sinha Manish D. ,   on behalf of the British Association for Paediatric Nephrology
Published: February 2016

Background and objectives

We evaluated rates and factors associating with late referral (LR) and describe association of LR with access to renal transplantation and patient survival in children in the United Kingdom. Early requirement of RRT within 90 days of presentation to a pediatric nephrologist was classed as a LR, and those >90 days as an early referral (ER).

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We included patients who commenced RRT, aged ≥3 months and <16 years, from 1996 to 2012.

Results

Of 1603 patients, 25.5% (n=408) were LR, of which 75% commenced RRT in <30 days following presentation. Those with LR were more likely to be older at presentation, female, and black. The primary renal disease in LR was more likely to be glomerular disease (odds ratio [OR], 1.6; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.12 to 2.29), renal malignancy and associated diseases (OR, 4.11; 95% CI, 1.57 to 10.72), tubulo-interstitial diseases (OR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.49 to 3.78), or an uncertain renal etiology (OR, 5.75; 95% CI, 3.1 to 10.65). Significant differences in rates of transplantation between LR and ER remained up to 1-year following commencement of dialysis (21% versus 61%, P<0.001) but with no differences for donor source (33.3% and 35.3% living donor in LR and ER respectively, P=0.55). The median (interquartile range) follow-up time was 4.8 years (2.9–7.6). There were 55 deaths with no statistically significant difference in survival in the LR group compared with the ER group (hazard ratio, 1.30; 95% CI, 0.7 to 2.3; P=0.40).

Conclusions

We found that 25% of children starting RRT in the United Kingdom receive a LR to pediatric renal services, with little change observed over the past two decades. Those with LR are unable to benefit from pre-emptive transplantation and require longer periods of dialysis before transplantation. There is an urgent need to understand causes of avoidable LR and develop strategies to improve kidney awareness more widely among health care professionals looking after children.
Different EV enrichment methods suitable for clinical settings yield different subpopulations of urinary extracellular vesicles from human samples
Authors: Royo Felix , Zuñiga‐Garcia Patricia , Sanchez‐Mosquera Pilar , Egia Ainara , Perez Amparo , Loizaga Ana , Arceo Raquel , Lacasa Isabel , Rabade Ainara , Arrieta Edurne , Bilbao Roberto , Unda Miguel , Carracedo Arkaitz , Falcon‐Perez Juan M.
Published: February 2016

Urine sample analysis is irreplaceable as a non‐invasive method for disease diagnosis and follow‐up. However, in urine samples, non‐degraded protein and RNA may be only found in urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs). In recent years, various methods of uEV enrichment using low volumes of urine and unsophisticated equipment have been developed, with variable success. We compared the results of the differential ultracentrifugation procedure with 4 of these methods. The methods tested were a lectin‐based purification, Exoquick (System Biosciences), Total Exosome Isolation from Invitrogen and an in‐house modified procedure employing the Exosomal RNA Kit from Norgen Biotek Corp. The analysis of selected gene transcripts and protein markers of extracellular vesicles (EVs) revealed that each method isolates a different mixture of uEV protein markers. In our conditions, the extraction with Norgen's reagent achieved the best performance in terms of gene transcript and protein detection and reproducibility. By using this method, we were able to detect alterations of EVs protein markers in urine samples from prostate cancer adenoma patients. Taken together, our results show that the isolation of uEVs is feasible from small volumes of urine and avoiding ultracentrifugation, making easier the analysis in a clinical facility. However, caution should be taken in the selection of the enrichment method since they have a differential affinity for protein uEVs markers and by extension for different subpopulation of EVs.
Exercício físico em academia, qualidade de vida e satisfação com a saúde
Authors: Machado Daniel Gomes da Silva , Silva Viviane Siqueira da , Nascimento Neto Luiz Inácio do , Farias Junior Luiz Fernando de , Fonteles André Igor , Agrícola Pedro Moraes Dutra , Silva Samara Karla Anselmo da , Medeiros Rosie Marie Nascimento de
Published: February 2016

OBJETIVO: Comparar a qualidade de vida (QV) de praticantes de exercício em academia e de sujeitos sedentários.

MÉTODOS: Avaliou-se transversalmente 25 praticantes de exercício físico em academia (32,4 ± 8,55 anos, 24,3 ± 2,82 kg/m²) e 25 sedentários (36,9 ± 11,2 anos, 27,8 ± 5,50 kg/m²) de ambos os sexos. Utilizou-se a versão abreviada do questionário WHOQOL para a avaliar a QV e peso e estatura para o cálculo do índice de massa corporal (IMC). Utilizou-se o teste t para amostras independentes/Mann Whitney e o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson/Spearman para comparação e associação das variáveis do estudo, adotando-se p<0,05.

RESULTADOS: Os praticantes de exercício físico em academia apresentaram melhor percepção de QV (p<0,001), maior satisfação com a saúde (p<0,01) e maior QV global (p<0,01) que indivíduos sedentários. Na análise por domínios da QV, evidenciou-se que os indivíduos praticantes de exercício físico em academia possuem maior QV nos domínios físico (p<0,02), relações sociais (p=0,004) e meio ambiente (p<0,04), mas não no domínio psicológico (p>0,15). Além disso, constatou-se uma correlação negativa entre o peso e o IMC e todos os componentes da QV (r = -0,29 a –0,41; p<0,05), exceto com o domínio meio ambiente.

CONCLUSÕES: Os praticantes de exercício físico em academias apresentam melhor percepção de QV, de satisfação com a saúde e de QV global, comparados a indivíduos sedentários. O exercício parece contribuir especificamente no aumento dos domínios físico, relações sociais e meio ambiente da QV.
Achievement of Remission and Low Disease Activity Definitions in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Clinical Practice: Results from the NOR-DMARD Study
Authors: Uhlig Till , Lie Elisabeth , Norvang Vibeke , Lexberg Åse Stavland , Rødevand Erik , Krøll Frode , Kalstad Synøve , Olsen Inge C. , Kvien Tore K.
Published: February 2016

Objective.

To examine the frequency of 6 definitions for remission and 4 definitions for low disease activity (LDA) after starting a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in clinical practice, and to study whether predictors for achieving remission after 6 months are similar for these definitions.

Methods.

Remission and LDA were calculated according to the 28-joint Disease Activity Score (DAS28), the Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI), the Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI), the Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data (RAPID3), and both the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) Boolean remission definitions 3 and 6 months after 4992 DMARD prescriptions for patients enrolled in the NOR-DMARD, a 5-center Norwegian register. Prediction of remission after 6 months was also studied.

Results.

After 3 months, remission rates varied between definitions from 8.7% to 22.5% and for LDA from 35.5% to 42.7%, and increased slightly until 6 months of followup. DAS28 and RAPID3 gave the highest and ACR/EULAR, SDAI, and CDAI the lowest proportions for remission. Positive predictors for remission after 6 months were similar across the definitions and included lower age, male sex, short disease duration, high level of education, current nonsmoking, nonerosive disease, treatment with a biological DMARD, being DMARD-naive, good physical function, little fatigue, and LDA.

Conclusion.

In daily clinical practice, the DAS28 and RAPID3 definitions identified remission about twice as often as the ACR/EULAR Boolean, SDAI, and CDAI. Predictors of remission were similar across remission definitions. These findings provide additional evidence to follow treatment recommendations and treat RA early with a DMARD.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Pediatrics
Authors: Duncan Martin , Zong Wenjing , Biank Vincent F. , Hageman Joseph R.
Published: February 2016

A 16-year-old Hispanic girl with an elevated body mass index in an otherwise normal state of health presented for her well-child examination. She had signs of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance including increased waist circumference and acanthosis nigricans. Laboratory results revealed elevated transaminases with otherwise normal hepatic function. Based on the physical examination and laboratory results, she was diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). After further evaluation, she eventually underwent a liver biopsy. The biopsy revealed nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with stage 2 fibrosis. This article reviews the definition of NAFLD and NASH, an increasingly prevalent cause of pediatric chronic liver disease associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. The article also outlines the epidemiology, risk factors, and natural history of NAFLD, which may help identify and prevent high-risk pediatric patients from progressing to irreversible liver disease. Understanding the diagnostic and treatment options offers the best chance at preventing and reversing the early stages of this disease.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2016;45(2):e54–e58.]
Early Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Findings in Unilateral Acute Idiopathic Maculopathy
Authors: Nicolo Massimo , Rosa Raffaella , Musetti Donatella , Musolino Maria , Traverso Carlo Enrico
Published: February 2016

Unilateral acute idiopathic maculopathy (UAIM) is a rare disorder presenting in young people with an acute onset of unilateral central visual loss often associated with a prodromal flu-like illness. The authors present the early anatomical findings of a 35-year-old man clinically diagnosed with UAIM using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and SS-OCT angiography.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2016;47:180–182.]
Opposing Lethal Wildlife Research When Nonlethal Methods Exist: Scientific Whaling as a Case Study
Authors: Waugh Courtney A. , Monamy Vaughan
Published: February 2016

As our understanding of sentience in certain wildlife species grows, and technological advancements promote nonlethal data collection, we believe that we ought to adjust our field methods to incorporate a regime of best practice that prioritizes nonlethal methodologies over inhumane methods of lethal sampling. In addition, progress already made toward nonlethal methodologies in wildlife research needs to be promoted widely. In this paper, we examine whether lethal methods of whale research, using Japanese lethal scientific whaling as a case study, are ethical when the scientific information can be gained from nonlethal methods, and humane methods of killing are not available. As a part of a simple ethical decision-making model, we explore if a requirement for “refinement” of scientific technique, promoted extensively for laboratory-based animal experimentation, has direct applicability to scientific research involving free-living wildlife. We argue that refinement is an appropriate ethical principle in all cases where scientific research involves a choice between nonlethal sampling and the deliberate killing of free-living wildlife for scientific purposes. We conclude that the welfare of individual animals and the conservation of free-living wildlife populations are both worthy of moral consideration and need not be incompatible in humane wildlife research and management.
Preparation and Properties of SiO2/Al2O3-SiO2 Fiber Mat Composite Materials
Authors: Liu Man Man , Liu Jia Chen , Wang Ming Chao , Yun Zi Qi
Published: February 2016

A light weight and heat-resistant composite material was successfully fabricated by impregnation-filtration process in which Al2O3-SiO2 fiber mat was used as the skeleton and silica was applied as reinforcing filler. The effects of both concentration of silica sol and sintering temperature on SiO2/Al2O3-SiO2 fiber composites were studied. The results indicated that the density of composites increased with the concentration of silica sol increasing. The heat-treatment temperature had little effect on the density of composites. As heat-treatment temperature increased, the compressive strength increased firstly and then decreased.
Crystal Growth and Fracture Behavior of Solidified TiC-TiB2 Prepared by Combustion Synthesis in High-Gravity Field
Authors: Huang Xue Gang , Huang Jie , Zhao Zhong Min , Wu Jun Yan
Published: February 2016

Based on the technology of combustion synthesis in high-gravity field, the TiC-TiB2 ceramics with refined microstructures have been fabricated by adjusting the technological parameter and proportioning of raw starting powders. The effects of particle size of raw powders on crystal growth and mechanical properties were studied in this paper. It found that the propagation rate and the combustion temperature can be improved by decreasing the grain size of raw powders, as well as the heat exchange and mass diffusion were enhanced too, so that the microstructure homogenization, densification and mechanical properties of the TiC-TiB2 ceramics were improved accordingly. The highest density, relative density, Vickers hardness and fracture toughness of TiC-TiB2 composites measured 4.07 g/cm3, 87.5%, 22.5 ± 1.2 GPa and 9.5 ± 0.8 MPa·m0.5, respectively, since that the fine B4C powder with particle size < 3.5 µm and the fine Ti powder with particle size < 38 µm were chosed as raw starting powders. The fracture behaviour of TiC-TiB2 composites was dominated by the strong coupled toughening mechanisms of crack deflection and crack-bridging, and the high fracture toughness of the TiC-TiB2 ceramics benefits mainly from the achievement of micro-nanocrystalline microstructure in the full-density solidified ceramic.
Spatial Span-Scale Microstructure Evolution and Ballistic Performance of Laminated Functionally Graded Composites of TiB2-Based Ceramic and Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Lu Xiao Bo , Liu Feng , Li Bao Chen
Published: February 2016

By inducing thermal explosion in high-gravity field to prepare the laminated composite of TiB2-based ceramic and Ti-6Al-4V alloy, spatial span-scale continuously-graded microstructure was achieved in interfacial region between the ceramic and Ti alloy, and the formation of the interfacial microstructure resulted from full-liquid ceramic-metal fusion, atomic interdiffusion and subsequent peritectic reaction of TiB2 primary phases with Ti liquid of graded concentration. By using 14.5 mm AP to conduct DOP test to evaluate ballistic performance of the laminated composite, it was considered that comparing to TiB2-based ceramic, the presence of spatial span-scale continuously-graded microstructure between the ceramic and Ti alloy brought about the enhanced ballistic performance of the laminated composite by 133.0%.
Reaction Fusion and 3D-Network Span-Scale Graded Microstructure Evolution in Laminated Composite of TiB2-Based Ceramic and 42CrMo Steel
Authors: Zhao Zhong Min , Wang Min Quan , Zhang Long
Published: February 2016

Based on liquid fusion and atomic interdiffusion of TiB2-based ceramic and 42CrMo steel, the ceramic-metal laminated composites with interfacial 3D-network span-scale graded microstructures were achieved by combustion synthesis in high gravity field. The presence of respective atomic concentration gradient of Ti, B, C, Fe and the others between the ceramic and the steel reasoned for continuously-graded interfacial microstructure in which the TiB2 and TiC phases transform sub-micrometer, micro-nanometer grains from the micrometer ones. The Fe-based liquid flow from the ceramic to the steel substrate resulted in the 3D-network distribution of Fe-based alloy phases from the ceramic to the steel substrate. Hence, interfacial shear fracture presented the mixed mode consisting of intercrystalline fracture along fine TiB2 platelets and ductile fracture in Fe-based alloy phases, presenting interfacial shear strength 415 ± 25 MPa of the laminated composite.
Ceramic-Metal Functionally Gradient Multilayer Composite Fabricated by Combustion Synthesis in High-Gravity Field
Authors: Yin De Jun , Zhao Zhong Min , Zhang Long
Published: February 2016

By taking combustion synthesis in high-gravity field to achieve fusion bonding of TiB2-based ceramic, Ti-6Al-4V alloy, the mid-ceramic and 42CrMo steel simultaneously, the ceramic-metal FG multilayer composites with the continuously-graded interfacial microstructures were successfully fabricated. XRD, FESEM and EDS results showed the formation of continuously-graded interfacial microstructures among TiB2-based ceramic, Ti-6Al-4V alloy, the mid-ceramic and 42CrMo steel resulted from thermal explosion reaction caused by high gravity field, liquid fusion of the ceramic, Ti-6Al-4V alloy, the mid-ceramic and 42CrMo steel, so hard-by-soft distribution in the hardness of FG multilayer composite was presented, and the interfacial shear strength of TiB2-based ceramic and Ti-6Al-4V alloy, and the mid-ceramic and 42CrMo steel measured 198 ± 25 MPa and 130 ± 15 MPa, respectively.
On the Characterization Method of Nano Boron Nitride Material Based on AFM
Authors: Gao Sun Mei Lin , Wu Ping , Li Hai Jian
Published: February 2016

Boron nitride materials have some excellent features, such as high temperature resistance, chemical resistance, good electric performance and radiation resistance . Along with the development of science and technology, boron nitride materials are made into coating widely, put it in the surface of metallic materials or non-metallic materials, can extend their service life significantly[1]. Atomic force microscope (AFM) is widely used for nanoscale morphology characterization and submicron scale structure material, simple sample preparation is its advantage. [2] Based on the domestic boron nitride coating as the research background, using AFM simulate the surface nanostructures of three dimensional, and evaluate the flatness of boron nitride ceramic coating which made by plasma spraying method and chemical vapor phase precipitation method respectively. The results show that the coating prepared with plasma spraying is more dense, surface flatness is smaller, surface roughness uniformity is better.
Influence of the Preparation Process on the Electrochemical Properties of xLiFePO4·yLi3V2(PO4)3/C Nano-Sized Composite Cathode Materials
Authors: Yan Bing , Gao Peng Zhao , Li Dong Yun , Tian Guang Lei
Published: February 2016

In this paper, a series of xLiFePO4·yLi3V2(PO4)3/C (x/y = 1:0, 7:1, 5:1, 3:1, 1:1, 1:3 and 0:1, ratio in mol) nano-sized composite cathode materials were successfully prepared via the solid reaction method. Influence of x/y ratio, calcination temperatures and the content of citric acid on the composition, microstructure and electrochemical properties of the materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electrochemical measurements, et al. results showed that the xLFP·yLVP/C (x and y ≠ 0) composites were composed of olivine LiFePO4 and monoclinic Li3V2(PO4)3, both of which featured slight structural distortions as the formation of V-doped LFP/C and Fe-doped LVP/C, respectively; With the increase of calcination temperatures, the crystallinity and particles size of the 7LFP·LVP/C composites increased, when calcined at 700°C, the initial charge/discharge specific capacity of the composites reached a maximum value of 145.6 mAh/g, and the voltage drop values between charge/discharge platform possessed the minimum value(0.04 V), suggesting the minimum polarization of the composites in charge/discharge process. Content of citric acid did not affect the compositions of the composites, with the increase of the molar ratio of citric acid to V3+, the discharge specific capacities of 7LFP·LVP/C increased first and then decreased, when it equaled to 1.0:1.0, the discharge specific capacity of the relative composites was 119.18 mAh/g, with a capacity retention rate of 93.9 % after 50 cycles, owning the excellent electrochemical stability.
Evaluation of the Corrosivity of CaF2 in Hot Water and 10mol%HF Solution
Authors: Kang Le , Nian Hong Qiang , Ma Xiang , Xia Jin Feng
Published: February 2016

Evaluation the corrosivity of CaF2 in hot water and 10mol%HF solution was studies.Theprepared powder and sintered ceramic was characterized by XRD and SEM technologies. we could conclude that impurities (such as CaO and CaCO3) effected the porperties of CaF2, the grain size is smaller, the corrosion resistance is lower. The CaF2 of corrosion resistance was stronger in HF solution than hot water.
Preparation and Properties of 3mol%YF3-CaF2 Nanopowder
Authors: Ma Xiang , Nian Hong Qiang , Kang Le , Xia Jin Feng
Published: February 2016

Nano-sized 3mol%molYF3-CaF2powder was prepared by co-precipitation method, the prepared powder and sintered ceramic was characterized by XRD and SEM technologies. Results clearly demonstrated that appropriate calcination temperature of 3mol%molYF3-CaF2 composite was below 500°C, and when the YF3-CaF2 ceramic sintering temperature was 900°C, the YF3was uniform doped in CaF2 ceramic successfully and the grain growth was very good.
In Situ Measurements of Raman Spectra for PLZT Ceramics under Compressive Stresses
Authors: Liang Li Ping , Cheng Xuan , Zhang Ying
Published: February 2016

A lanthanum doped lead zirconate titanate (PLZT) ceramic specimen was prepared by the conventional solid state reaction method. The crystal phase and morphology of the PLZT specimen were characterized by XRD and SEM techniques, with the hysteresis loop by RT6000HVS system. The compressive stress was applied to the PLZT specimen through the microtest mechanical loading device. In-situ Raman spectra focused on a fixed grain under various compressive stresses were recorded for different polarization directions of the scattered light. The effects of stresses on the Raman spectra and the intensity ratio between the E+B1 and E(2TO) modes are discussed.
Mapping Nanoscale Switching Behavior of PZT Domain Patterns by Scanning Probe Microscope
Authors: Wei Yan Ping , Lu Huan Ming , Wei An Xiang , Li Yong
Published: February 2016

The switching current of the PZT domain patterns was detected by the conductive atomic force microscopy. The impact of the scan rate on the current contrast was studied. Successive current images of domain evolution during the polarization switching process were obtained. The impact of the local force exerted by the tip and the polarization cycles of the patterns were studied. The results suggested that the compressive strain exerted by the tip can decrease the piezoelectric coercive field and the polarization fatigue can increase the piezoelectric coercive field in the polarization inversion process from bottom to top.
Preparation and Long-Term Stability Study of Steel Fiber/Graphite Conductive Concrete
Authors: Du Jun , Tang Cheng , Jia Bo , Zhang De , Miao Qiang
Published: February 2016

The steel fiber/graphite conductive concrete is applied in power system grounding. In high soil resistivity regions, the common methods for reducing the grounding resistance are not practical. It is difficult for grounding resistance of substations to meet the requirements of working earthing and safety earthing. In order to solve this problem, a steel fiber/graphite conductive concrete is developed in this paper. Steel fiber and graphite are added as conductive fillers. The long-term stability of the steel fiber/graphite conductive concrete is studied. The experiment results show that steel fiber/graphite conductive concrete not only maintains excellent conductivity, but also has good mechanical strength and corrosion resistance in 300 days.
Influence of Environmental Humidity and Test Depth on the Measured Gas Permeability of Concrete
Authors: Ni Xiao Xu , Wang Zhong Ping , Cheng Fei , Zhou Long
Published: February 2016

The durability of concrete depends on its ability to prevent the ingress of aggressive chemical species. Transport properties of concrete, mainly permeability, play a key role in assessing and predicting the durability of reinforced concrete structures. This paper presents an experimental study on gas permeability of concrete influenced by environmental humidity and test depth. Gas permeability of concrete were measured both under dry condition and air-water balance by Cembureau method. A fine linear relationship between gas permeability coefficient and porosity of concrete blocks is shown in this article.
Characterization and Cementitious Properties of BOF Slag
Authors: Chen Yu Hong , Yang Qi Xing , Han Feng Lan , Jiang Liang , Zhang Li Li
Published: February 2016

Different techniques were used to characterise BOF slag. The main mineral phases of steel slag are dicalcium silicate C2S , trecalcium silicate C3S and dicalcium ferrite C2F, and C4AF. Some minor phases as ferrite oxides (FeO,Fe2O3) were also identified. The cementitious test indicated that strength of mortar decreased with the increasing of steel slag replacement, and the sample with finer steel slag tends to gain higher strength. Steel slag exhibited significant adverse effect on the early strength, but benefited at late ages.