bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remediation potential of bacterial mixed cultures for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) biodegradation
Authors: Horváthová Hana , Lászlová Katarína , Dercová Katarína
Published: July 2019

Remediation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in minimal mineral water media in the presence of bacterial mixed cultures consisting of several individual strains is proposed. Starting from the fact that the properties and features of bacterial strains in mixed cultures can be supplemented and compensated, two-, three- and seven-membered mixed cultures (MC) were performed. The strains used for the construction of the MC were isolated from the waste canal of a former PCB producer. The highest biodegradation of 70 % of the sum of seven defined PCB congeners was achieved by two-membered MC containing the strains Rhodococcus sp. and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia added in the biomass ratio of 1 : 3 and 3 : 1. PCB biodegradation by a seven-membered MC was lower (58 %) but provided several benefits over the less-membered mixed cultures or the individual strains: similarity to naturally occurring microflora, easier preparation of the inocula, certain and repeatable results. Periodical reinoculation of the water media resulted to PCB biodegradation increase to 65 %. Seven-membered MC was applied to the historically PCB contaminated sediment as well, where a 59 % degradation of the sum of seven PCB congeners was determined.
Prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus in public transport in Bratislava, Slovakia
Authors: Medveďová Alžbeta , Györiová Romana
Published: July 2019

There is evidence that the transmission of Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus between the community and environmental surfaces still exists. Even the means of this transmission remain uncertain, the public transport system may serve as a potential source of different bacteria, and the contact with contaminated public surfaces may increase the risk for bacterial diseases emergence. This study aimed to investigate S. aureus contamination on Bratislava’s public transport vehicles. Forty samples of hand-touched surfaces were collected during December 2015 and March 2017 by using surface sampling method. S. aureus was detected in all analysed swabs. Simultaneously, antibiotic resistance of S. aureus from swabs was evaluated. Of 40 samples, only 23 % did not contain S. aureus resistant to some of 10 analysed antibiotics. On the other hand, the severe prevalence of highly resistant S. aureus to penicillin, methicillin, ampicillin, and cefoxitin was confirmed. 15 % of isolates displayed resistance to at least three antimicrobial classes. The amount of S. aureus was not significantly influenced by the lines or by the analysed surface (grabs rails or on-board stop buttons). However, there was a statistically significant effect of year period, both between samples from December and March and between samples from the same month but different year. The study confirmed the widespread occurrence of resistant S. aureus in public transport vehicles in Bratislava, Slovakia.
Magnetic composites based on NR and strontium ferrite
Authors: Kruželák Ján , Kvasničáková Andrea , Dosoudil Rastislav , Hudec Ivan
Published: July 2019

Two types of composites based on natural rubber (NR) and strontium ferrite were tested in this study. Composites of the first type were prepared by incorporation of strontium ferrite in the concentration range ranging from 0 to 100 phr (parts per hundred rubber) into pure NR based rubber matrix, while with those of the second type, strontium ferrite was dosed in the same concentration level into NR based rubber batch with constant amount of carbon black — 25 phr. For rubber matrices cross-linking, a standard sulfur based curing system was used. This work is focused on the effect of magnetic filler content on physico-mechanical, magnetic and thermo-physical properties of composite materials. Subsequently, the cross-link density and the structure of the formed sulfidic cross-links were examined. The results showed that the cross-link density of both types of composites increased with the increasing content of magnetic filler, while the structure of the sulfidic cross-links was almost not influenced by the amount of strontium ferrite. Tensile strength of rubber composites with pure rubber matrix was slightly improved by the incorporation of ferrite, while in case of composites based on a carbon black batch, the incorporation of magnetic filler resulted in the decrease of this characteristic. The presence of magnetic filler in both types of composites leads to a significant increase of the remanent magnetic induction.
An active indirect solar system for food products drying
Authors: Noori Abdul Wasim , Royen Mohammad Jafar , Haydary Juma
Published: July 2019

An energy independent active indirect solar drying system for the study of food products drying at specific climate conditions was developed and tested. As a model material, sliced tomato was selected because of its short shelf live, high humidity and potential to be a high value dried product. Indirect solar dryer enabled complete protection of the dried material against sunlight, birds, insects, rain and dust during the drying process. The solar dryer system design includes a rectangular section (1000 × 600 × 400) mm chamber and a flat solar collector (1500 × 600 × 100) mm with the surface area of 0.9 m2. Air flow was induced by a fan installed at the inlet of the collector and powered by a photovoltaic solar panel and a battery system. Temperature and humidity of air were monitored at the collector inlet, collector outlet and the drying chamber outlet. The key element of the collector is a 10.5 m long rectangular section aluminum pipe (55 × 35) mm coated with an absorption layer. The maximum dryer capacity is around 3 kg of wet material (sliced tomato) per batch. Average air temperature increase in the collector was measured to be 30 °C during the winter season. Air relative humidity decreased from 21 % to 15 % after passing through the collector. The moisture of tomato slices decreased from the initial value of 92 % down to 22 % during the time of the experiment (30 h). Quality of tomatoes dried using the designed solar dryer differed significantly in color as well as in texture from those dried by the commonly used methods, like an open sun drying system. Equilibrium moisture content of the product was reached after 30 h in December when the maximum outside temperature was 17.6 °C. The tomato mass decreased from 333 g to 33.15 g; the mass loss being approximately 90 %. The heated air temperature and humidity at the dryer inlet and outlet were influenced by the change of the ambient temperature and humidity during the day. Variation of the drying rate with the change of the ambient temperature and humidity was observed. During summer, when the sun radiation increases, the drying time for sliced tomato with 9 mm thickness decreased from 25 h to 15 h. The sample thickness also has an impact on the drying process. When the sample thickness increased from 9 mm to 12 mm, the drying time increased from 15 h to 20 h of active device time.
Initial Investigation Into Real 3D Body Scanning Versus Avatars for the Virtual Fitting of Garments
Authors: Balach Monika , Cichocka Agnieszka , Frydrych Iwona , Kinsella Marc
Published: July 2019

The clothing industry is currently focused on 3D virtual fitting. Many companies use size 12 as the core size; however, in recent years the average size has increased. For example, in the United Kingdom, the average size is now 16. Many companies have not updated their core size and often use size 12 as the size they are the most familiar with. The purpose of this paper is to compare real plus size body shapes with artificial avatars in relation to the fabric draping. This paper will investigate, how the body shape changes with an age (body height decreases, skin elasticity is lower, the shoulders are hunched, buttocks sag and fatness pockets are accumulated around the waist area). These factors are not considered in virtual avatars, but have a big impact on virtual fitting.
The influence of initial tension on blunting of chain saw blades and cutting efficiency
Authors: Maciak Adam , Kubuśka Magda
Published: July 2019

The initial tension of the chainsaw is a decisive factor in making the operator’s work more efficient and at the same time it is a parameter that the operator can adjust and thus affect significantly. This article presents the results of research aimed at determining the impact of the initial chain tension on the blunting of the blade and the cutting efficiency. Two tree species, pine and oak, were examined in our research, which enabled us to also compare the effect of the wood hardness on blade blunting. the wood tested in this study was fresh wood. The measurements were carried out with two different degrees of chain tension: tensioned and loose. We found that both, tension and wood hardness, significantly affect the rate of blunting of the saw blades. The dulling occurs more intensively when working with a loose chain and sawing wood with greater hardness. In the case of too small tension on the saw chain, blunting may occur even more than twice as fast compared to working with a properly tensioned saw. The initial tension and tree species also affect the cutting efficiency with too small an initial tension reducing cutting efficiency.
The Preliminary Study of Pesticide Mospilan Effect on the GSTP1 Gene Methylation in Bovine Lymphocytes
Authors: Halušková J. , Holečková B. , Staničová J. , Verebová V.
Published: July 2019

The epigenetic mechanisms represent a dynamic, reversible and heritable manner modulating gene expression during the life cycle of an animal organism. They generate the specific epigenetic marks which constitute so-called epigenome. One of the most studied epigenetic mechanisms/marks is DNA methylation which is, similarly as the whole epigenome, susceptible to environmental and nutritional influences. The aberrations of the DNA methylation profile may alter gene expression leading to pathologic consequences. Pesticides along with their pest-reducing effects may also negatively affect non-target organisms. In our preliminary study, we investigated an effect of the pesticide Mospilan on the DNA methylation of the bovine GSTP1 gene which plays an important role in the cell detoxification processes. The specific primers for the GSTP1 Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) analysis were proposed and tested with the DNA from the Mospilan-treated bovine lymphocytes. It seems that the pesticide with the concentration of 100 µg.ml−1 did not induce DNA methylation changes in GSTP1 gene in bovine lymphocytes.
Antifungal Susceptibility of Malassezia pachydermatis Isolates from Dogs
Authors: Sihelská Z. , Čonková E. , Váczi P. , Harčárová M.
Published: July 2019

The genus Malassezia belongs to Basidiomycota and includes 16 species, from which M. pachydermatis is the most common in dogs. M. pachydermatis is a member of the normal mycobiota of the skin and mucosal sites of dogs. Under certain conditions, these yeasts can be opportunistic pathogens and involved skin and ear canal infections of these animals. Topical and oral antifungal agents are used for the therapy of Malassezia dermatitis and otitis. With the expanding use of antifungal agents, resistant strains of Malassezia are increasingly detected. In this study, the susceptibility of 40 M. pachydermatis isolates to fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, clotrimazole and nystatin were evaluated in vitro based on the modified standard disk diffusion method M44-2A.
Proteolytic Activity of Edible Spruce Morchella esculenta
Authors: Strapáč I. , Bedlovičová Z. , Baranová M.
Published: July 2019

This study focused on the determination of non-specific proteolytic activity of edible spruce Morchella esculenta in water extract, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution (pH = 7.5) extract and a suspension prepared from 200 mg DW (dry weight) of edible spruce in PBS solution (pH 7.5). A clear casein solution was used as a substrate. The absorbances were measured in quartz cuvettes at the wavelength of 280 nm against a blank with zero concentration of trypsin. Non-specific proteolytic activity was expressed as trypsin equivalents per kilogram of mushroom dry weight (mg.kg−1 DW). All of the extracts demonstrated non-specific enzymatic activity. The highest activity was observed in the PBS suspension and the lowest enzymatic activity was measured in the water extract of the Morchella esculenta fungi. The non-specific proteolytic activity decreased in the following order: PBS suspension extract (pH 7.5; 22.9 mg.kg−1 DW), followed by PBS extract (pH 7.5; 13.6 mg.kg−1 DW) and finally the water extract (10.94 mg.kg−1 DW).
Sleep Patterns and Alertness in an Elite Super Rugby Team During a Game Week
Authors: Dunican Ian C , Higgin Charles C , Murray Kevin , Jones Maddison J , Dawson Brian , Caldwell John A , Halson Shona L , Eastwood Peter R
Published: July 2019

Sleep is a vital component of preparation, performance and recovery for a Super Rugby game. The purpose of this study was to quantify sleep behaviours and alertness of professional rugby union players during training and a game. Thirty-six rugby union players from a Super Rugby team wore a wrist-activity device (Readiband™) to measure sleep for 3 days before, 3 days after and on the night of an evening game. Players were separated into those selected to play the game (n = 23) and those who were not (n = 13). Alertness was assessed for all training and game times using bio-mathematical modelling. Alertness measures ≤90% were considered to reflect impaired reaction time. Those selected to play in the game progressively increased sleep duration over the nights prior to the game (by 92 min p ≤ 0.05) by delaying wake time. Players went to bed later after the game (02:20 ± 114 min vs 22:57 ± 60 min; p ≤ 0.001) which resulted in decreased sleep duration on game night compared to pre-game nights (296 ± 179 min vs 459 ± 78 min; p ≤ 0.05). Four players did not achieve any sleep on game night. Sleep duration appeared to be truncated by early morning training sessions (before 08:00) on the second and third mornings after the game. Alertness was >90% for all training and game times for all players. In conclusion, in the days leading into a Super Rugby game, players delay morning time at wake and consequently increase sleep duration with post-game sleep reduced in some.
Alteration of Blinking and Sex Differences During Physical Exercise Affect Tear Osmolarity
Authors: Wylęgała Adam , Sędziak-Marcinek Bogumiła , Pilch Jan , Wylęgała Edward
Published: July 2019

Physical exertion leads to the rise in tear osmolarity. However, previous studies have been conducted mostly on males and did not consider sex differences and the possible alteration in blinking during physical exercise. Sixteen women and 18 men aged 25.09 ± 1.70 were divided into equal groups with eyes open and shut. Participants performed 8-min medium-intensity exercise and 5-min intense exercise on a cycloergometer. Tear osmolarity (in mOsm/L) was evaluated before ( T0), after medium-intensity (T1) and intense exercise (T2). The blinking rate was assessed in a group with eyes open. Tear brake up time was measured in T0 and T1. With tear osmolarity measuring 305.72 ± 1.22 and 313.56 ± 1.90 for men and women, respectively, we observed significant differences in T1. In T2, tear osmolarity in men was 303.3 ± 1.28 vs. 310.87 ± 1.36 in women. The blinking rate decreased from 14.24 ± 2.54/min in T0 to 9.41 ± 2.83/min in T1. There was a statistically significant change in tear osmolarity in both groups, that is, in the group with eyes shut from 300.53 ± 1.37 in T0 to 308.06 ± 1.55 in T1 to 304.88 ± 1.54 in T2. In the group with eyes open, tear osmolarity increased from 300.29 ± 1.37 in T0 to 310.76 ± 1.55 in T1 and then dropped to 308.88 ± 1.54 in T2. Tear brake up time measured in T0 was 14.7 ± 1.43 vs. 13.53 ±1.48 in the open eyes condition. Due to physical exercise, short-term changes in tear osmolarity are partially caused by altered blinking. Sex differences in tear osmolarity in response to exertion may confirm the relationship between total body water and tear osmolarity.
Anthropometric and Motor Performance Variables are Decisive Factors for the Selection of Junior National Female Volleyball Players
Authors: Tsoukos Athanasios , Drikos Sotirios , Brown Lee E. , Sotiropoulos Konstantinos , Veligekas Panagiotis , Bogdanis Gregory C.
Published: July 2019

This study examined whether anthropometric and fitness tests might successfully predict selection of young female volleyball players for a junior national team. Sixty four female players (age: 14.4 ± 0.5 y, body height: 1.76 ± 0.05 m, body mass: 63.9 ± 6.4 kg) underwent a selection procedure for the junior national team. Anthropometric data and speed and power test results were obtained and players were graded for their performance in a volleyball tournament. Selected players differed from the non-qualified in body height (3.4%; p = 0.001), standing reach height (2.6%; p = 0.001), the sum of skinfolds (15.4%; p = 0.035), body mass index (BMI; 7.1%; p = 0.005) and spike jump and reach (SJR) (2.5%; p = 0.001). Selected players were classified in the 99.2 ± 1.6 percentile in body height and in the 51.4 ± 20.6 percentile in the BMI, which were significantly different from those of the non-qualified players (95.4 ± 7.0 and 66.7 ± 18.6, p = 0.02 and p = 0.004, respectively). Stepwise discriminant analysis yielded a discriminant function (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.78) that was highly loaded by height, SJR and the BMI (r = 0.79, r = 0.74 and r = -0.53, respectively). Cross validation results showed that selection was correctly predicted in 15 out of the 20 selected players (predictive accuracy: 75.0%) and in 35 out of the 44 non-qualified players (predictive accuracy: 79.5%). In conclusion, body height, the BMI and SJR height successfully discriminated between selected and non-qualified elite young female junior national team volleyball players. The equal vertical jump, sprint and agility of selected and non-qualified players, highlight the importance of body height and the BMI for selection of elite junior female volleyball players.
Efficacy of Tolvaptan in Elderly Patients with Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Suzuki Yoriyasu , Murata Akira , Tsujimoto Satoshi , Ochiumi Yusuke , Ito Tatsuya
Published: July 2019

Background: There is no known therapy with proven efficacy for improving clinical outcomes in elderly patients with heart failure (HF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of tolvaptan (TLV) in elderly HFpEF patients. Methods: This retrospective observational study involved 100 consecutive elderly HFpEF patients hospitalized at the Nagoya Heart Center, Japan. Inclusion criteria were: (1) patients aged ≥75 years; (2) first hospitalization secondary to HF; (3) received medical therapy for HF, without invasive treatment; and (4) clinical follow-up for >6 months after discharge. The primary endpoint was rehospitalization due to worsening HF, and the secondary endpoint was worsening renal function (WRF) during hospitalization and at 6 months after discharge. Sixty background-matched HFpEF patients were divided into 2 groups: with TLV therapy (TLV (+), n = 29) and without TLV therapy (TLV (–), n = 31). In the TLV (+) group, TLV therapy was continued after discharge. Clinical outcomes of these patients were evaluated. Results: Bed rest period and length of hospital stay were significantly shorter in the TLV (+) group than in the TLV (−) group. The dose of loop diuretics, mean serum creatinine levels, and incidence of WRF development were significantly lower in the TLV (+) group. Incidence of rehospitalization was also significantly lower in the TLV (+) group (log-rank test; p = 0.018). The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that TLV therapy reduces the incidence of rehospitalization in elderly patients with HFpEF. Conclusions: TLV therapy reduced the bed rest period, length of hospital stay, and rate of rehospitalization without WRF in elderly HFpEF patients, suggesting that TLV could represent an effective therapy for this group of patients.
Capturing cross-border continuity: The case of the Czech-Polish borderland
Authors: Pászto Vít , Macků Karel , Burian Jaroslav , Pánek Jiří , Tuček Pavel
Published: July 2019

The differences in welfare amongst European countries are especially evident in border regions, and this affects cross-border cooperation and relationships. Due to the historical development of Central and Eastern European countries over the last century, the affected countries are unique “laboratories” for geographical research. This study assesses disparities in socio-economic indicators representing socio-economic phenomena in the Czech-Polish border region, through the analysis of cross-border (spatial) continuity, using quantitative methods (multivariate statistics and socio-economic profiling), GIS analysis and cartographic visualisation. It is demonstrated how such a combination of methods is useful for the comparison and evaluation of the complex socio-economic situations in neighbouring countries. This research project identifies the most suitable common indicators for a proper evaluation of cross-border (spatial) continuity, and it reveals the spatial patterns as reflected by a cluster analysis. The greatest cross-border (spatial) continuity is apparent in the easternmost part of the borderlands, while significant differences on both sides of the border are evident in the very central part of the areas under study. The paper also describes methodological aspects of the research in order to provide a quantitative approach to borderland studies.
Patterns of Pronunciation of English Interdental Fricatives by Some Yoruba Speakers of English in a Nigerian University
Authors: Fajobi Eunice O. , Akande Akinmade T.
Published: July 2019

This paper is an investigation of the pronunciation patterns of English interdental fricatives by some Yoruba speakers of English at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. This was with a view to finding out the extent to which gender, the level of education, and the position in words of the interdental fricatives (i.e., the (th) variable as in think, pathetic, and path on the one hand, and the (dh) variable as in then, father, and clothe on the other hand) could affect the realisations of these two fricatives, otherwise known as (th) and (dh) variables. Data eventually used for this study were drawn from the reading performance of thirty-three informants who were of Yoruba origin. The thirty-three informants comprised 20 male and 13 female subjects with different levels of education ranging from undergraduate to doctoral. Our findings indicated that the (dh) variable was significantly affected by gender while the (th) variable was not. It was also demonstrated that while the (th) was significantly affected by the level of education of informants, the (dh) variable had no statistically significant association with the speakers’ level of education. Finally, the results of the study revealed that the position in a word (whether initial, medial, or final) of each of the variables affected the realisations of the two variables significantly. It was therefore concluded that sociolinguistic variables such as gender and the level of education were capable of affecting the rendition of linguistic variables significantly.
The Grendelkin and the Politics of Succession at Heorot: The Significance of Monsters in Beowulf
Authors: Olesiejko Jacek
Published: July 2019

The article considers the significance of the Grendelkin as monsters, bringing to attention the Isidorian understanding of the monster as a sign, portent, and admonition. In the original Beowulf the Grendelkin are not described as possessing many of the inhuman qualities that have been applied to them in the later critical tradition or by its translators. Isidore acknowledges in Etymologies that monsters are natural beings, whose function in the system of creation is significant. The present article considers the significance of the Grendelkin in the poem and argues that Grendel and his mother function as signs underlying themes of feud and succession in the poem. The article also brings attention to the multiple references to body parts, such as hands, and their function within the poem as synecdochic representations of the Danish body politic. The article explores the sexualised and gendered perception of the body politic in the poem.
Demetaphorization, Anatomy, and the Semiotics of the Reformation in Early Modern Revenge Tragedy
Authors: Kiss Attila
Published: July 2019

Reformation theology induced a profound thanatological crisis in the semiotics of the human being and the body. The Protestant Reformation discontinued numerous practices of intercession and communal ritual, and the early modern subject was left vulnerable in the face of death. The English Renaissance stage played out these anxieties within the larger context of the epistemological uncertainties of the age, employing violence and the anatomization of the body as representational techniques. While theories of language and tragic poetry oscillated between different ideas of imitatio (granting priority to the model) and mimesis (with preference for the creative and individual nature of the copy), the new anatomical interest and dissective perspectives also had their effects on the rhetorical practices of revenge tragedies. In the most shocking moments of these plays, rhetorical tropes suddenly turn into grisly reality, and figures of speech become demetaphorized, literalized. In a double anatomy of body and mind, English Renaissance revenge tragedy simultaneously employs and questions the emblematic and poetic traditions of representation, and the ensuing indeterminacy and ambiguity open paths for a new mimesis.
Reanimating the English Historical Novel in the Twenty-First Century – The Case of David Mitchell’s the Thousand Autumns of Jacob De Zoet
Authors: Kucała Bożena
Published: July 2019

This article argues that David Mitchell’s novel The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet (2010) represents a new variation of the genre of historical fiction. The historical novel in Britain has risen to prominence since the 1980s and in the twenty-first century this strong interest in the past continues. Placing David Mitchell’s book in the context of recent historical fiction, the article takes account of Joseph Brooker’s hypothesis that, together with Hilary Mantel’s Tudor novels, The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet may be indicative of an emergent trend in the contemporary English historical novel. The purpose of the article is to identify and explore Mitchell’s key strategies of writing about history. It is argued that, departing from the prevalent mode of historiographic metafiction, Mitchell’s book adheres to some of the traditional tenets of the genre while achieving the Scottian aim of animating the past in innovative ways. The analysis leads to the conclusion that the use of the present tense, the subjective perspectives, and the exclusion of foreknowledge lend the novel dramatic qualities.
Economic Evaluation of Cultivation and Finalization of the Products from the Sea Buckthorn
Authors: Gurčík Ľubomír , Porhajaš Viktor , Červený Dávid , Bajusová Zuzana
Published: July 2019

The paper discusses economic evaluation of the sea buckthorn cultivation as well as production of final products by processing the fruits of this economically interesting woody plant. The input data of the economic “ex post” analysis is based on the authentic data of the agricultural entity operating in Slovakia. Recently, we have been expanding the growing area of sea buckthorn to which we are contributing by educating and promoting the products from this medicinal plant. Sea buckthorn is an extraordinary healing plant called the “lemon tree of the north“. One sea buckthorn fruit will cover the daily dose of vitamin C. Even the ancient Greeks knew about the effects of sea buckthorn, which formed the basis for its Latin name – Hippophae rhamnoides – which means a shining horse. The sea buckthorn’s name was associated with a beautiful shiny coat of horses grazing on the plant. It is one of the world‘s most nutrient-rich plants because sea buckthorn areas have a unique composition and chemical analyses have confirmed that more than 190 substances are the best-ever independent source of natural clustering. These substances contain 10 different vitamins, 18 amino acids, 24 minerals and trace elements. Sea buckthorn has a high content of mono and polyunsaturated essential acids (omega 3, 6, 7 and 9) and phytosterols. It contains vitamins C, E, beta-carotene and another 40 carotenoids. The fruits contain all B vitamins. For these reasons, we consider buckthorn to be an exceptional plant that has the potential to expand its cultivation in all production areas. In the SR, the cultivation of sea buckthorn is based on small gardeners, on larger areas; the cultivation of this healing plant is a unique matter. An advertising campaign that promotes sea buckthron products has been launched by the pharmaceutical industry and its distribution networks. This increased interest creates a precondition for the expansion of the cultivation in the Slovak Republic.
Experience of using photodynamic therapy in the treatment of esophageal cancer
Authors: Tumanina A. N. , Polezhaev A. A. , Apanasevich V. A. , Gurina L. I. , Volkov M. V. , Tarasenko A. Yu , Filonenko E. V.
Published: July 2019

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a worthy alternative to surgical esophageal resection or endoscopic mucosal resection and dissection (EMR, ESD) in patients with superficial esophageal cancer with severe concomitant diseases as well as in patients with a common form of esophageal cancer with severe malignant dysphagia. Patients with superficial (7) and advanced (15) esophageal cancer received PDT as an independent method and as a supplement to complex treatment. Radachlorin was used as a photosensitizer at a dose of 0.6–0.8 mg/kg, administered intravenously 3 hours before irradiation. A PDT session was carried out using a laser with a wavelength of 662 nm. The light dose used was 150–300 J/cm2 . The use of PDT made it possible to achieve the full effect in 7 (100%) patients in the group of superficial (T1a-T1b) esophageal cancer where PDT was either the only method of treatment or in combination with radiation therapy. In the group of patients with stenotic cancer the use of PDT made it possible to achieve full recovery of food intake after recanalization for 20% of patients, and partial – for 66.7%. Thus, complete natural food intake was restored for 86.7% of patients which improved their quality of life. PDT is also a method of choice for cancer of the upper esophagus as esophageal stenting in this situation can cause unwanted subjective sensations.
Photodynamic effectiveness of laser diode combined with ozone to reduce STaphylicoccus aureus biofilm with exogenous chlorophyll of Dracaena angustifolia leaves
Authors: Astuti S. D. , Drantantiyas N. D. , Putra A. P. , Puspita P. S. , Syahrom A. , Suhariningsih S.
Published: July 2019

Photodynamic inactivation is an effective treatment that uses light irradiation, photosensitizer and oxygen. The aim of this study was to determine photodynamic effectiveness of laser diode combined with ozone to reduce Staphylococcus aureus biofilm using exogenous chlorophyll (Chlo). The chlorophyll was extracted from leave of Dracaena angustifolia. To determine the antibacterial effect of S. aureus biofilm treatments, samples were separated into Chlo, Laser, Chlo+Laser, Ozone, Ozone+Laser, Chlo+Ozone+Laser categories. The data were analyzed using ANOVA test. The result of this study showed that Chlo+Ozone+Laser combine treatment at 20 s exposure of ozone with 4 min of irradiation time lead to 80.26 % reduction of biofilm activity, which was the highest efficacy of all the treatment groups. The combination of laser, chlorophyll and lower ozone concentration increases the effectiveness of photodynamic inactivation.
The Effectiveness of Selective Stem Cell Placement on Gait Performance in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: a Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Cohen David S. , Broeska Henry
Published: July 2019

This report describes a Phase I clinical trial of a novel selective stem cell placement (SSCP) protocol using autologous bone marrow mononuclear stem cells (BM-MNSCs) to treat patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) with post-operative functional changes measured by gait performance. Previous studies have demonstrated that clinically significant gait deviations occur at all stages of MS that involve walking. Consequently, to determine the functional benefit of SSCP, the timed 25-foot walk (T25FW) was administered to 31 MS patients before and after treatment. The time and number of steps taken to complete the test significantly decreased post-intervention. This suggests that recovery of function in MS patients is possible and that SSCP using BM-MNSCs should be considered for future clinical trials as a possible treatment for MS. Study limitations and directions for future research are also discussed.
THE NEWLY DEVELOPED HIGHLY SENSITIVE METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF CAPECITABINE BY USING UV-SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: Mishra Manas Ranjan , Agrawal Punam , Das Surya Narayan
Published: July 2019

Capecitabine is a fluoropyrimidine carbamate, designed as 'pro-drug' to the cytotoxic agent 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) meant to be administered orally. Capecitabine is used as first line monotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer. In the present study simple, rapid, accurate UV spectrophotometric methods were developed and validated for the estimation of capecitabine in bulk and its formulations as per ICH guidelines. Three solvent systems viz., 0.1N NaOH, 0.1N HCl and Methanol: Water (1:3) were tried. The results suggest that the developed methods shows linearity over the concentration range of 2-24μg/ml with a correlation coefficient of 0.9999. All the developed methods were statistically validated for accuracy, precision, linearity, robustness, and ruggedness as per ICH guidelines. The % RSD values for validated methods were found to be less than 1.5 and methods will find application in routine analysis of drug formulations containing capecitabine.
Comparative Antidiabetic Potential Assessment of Herbal Formulation of Gymnemic Acid and Curcumin
Authors: Shukla Alok , Sachan Mridula , Bigoniya Papiya
Published: July 2019

Standardization of polyherbal formulations with respect to bioactive phytocompounds is the need of the time for registration and marketing authorization in developed countries. This has prompted to prepare and evaluate a standardized bioactive phyotcompounds conintaining formulation. The study aims at development and screening of a standardized antidiabetic suspension containing active isolated phytoconstituents targeting better therapeutic effect with reduced bioburden. Suspension of isolated gymnemic acid and curcumin (GCS) was prepared, evaluated and authenticated by TLC and HPTLC. Antidiabetic efficacy of GCS was screened against alloxan induced diabetes on rats following 28 days of treatment comparative to Hyponidd tablet and Madhumehari granules. Body weight, relative organ weight, blood glucose, cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) level was measured. The formulation having pH 6.0, refractive index 1.41 and 45.58 mg/ml total solid content showed high alcohol and water soluble extractive value. The GCS treatment normalized liver and kidney weight, decreased body weight gain, TC, TG, LDL and VLDL level along with an increase in HDL level. Study outcome signifies similar antidiabetic potential of standardized formulation GCS compared to marketed Polyherbal formulation with antihyperlipidemic activity signifying as a promising natural and safe remedy for the prevention of diabetic complications.
Geometry Modified Square Edge Orifice Valve Study for Efficiency Gas Lift with Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) Method
Authors: Rohman Adam Fatchur , Kasmungin Sugiatmo , Mardiana Dwi Atty
Published: July 2019

The gas lift lifting system is widely used as an artificial lift on the X Field, with an average depth of gas lift production wells of 3,000-3,500 ft. Design of 3 to 5 Gas lift Valves (GLV) designwith size of 1 inch is ussualy applied. While at the point of gas injection, the GLV square edge orifice is applied. The problem in the optimization of gas lift wells is the flow instability due to gas flow rate fluctuations, the limited volumetric gas injection and limited gas compressor pressure. With the limited compressor pressure, the lift flow and gas design speed is very dependent on the amount of pressure on the compressor, the production wells with limited injection pressure will result in a limited amount of gas injection, the square edge orifice requires a pressure difference of 40% to achieve the maximum gas flow rate. This study aims to find the modification of the GLV orifice geometry to improve the efficiency of the gas lift system so that it can get optimal production. This GLV design modification includes changing the GLV orifice geometry. Design studies using Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations aim to analyze any changes in GLV geometry design to the performance of the gas flow rate in the orifice valve described in the valve performance curve. The design modification approach is in accordance with the GLV venturi orifice geometry and the availability of equipment for GLV modification. The CFD simulation results of the first modification geometry by increasing the orifice diameter from 0.25 to 0.5 inch with the condition of upstream 650 psig and downstream 625 psig pressure increasing the injection gas flow rate capacity by 355% and modifying the second geometry with the venturi orifice form by 280%. In modifying the shape of the orifice venture to reach critical flow requires a pressure difference of 10%. Based on simulation results, the modified orifice application is able to increae production up to 44%.
Simulation Model Application to Predict the Effect of Salinity on Surfactant Adsorption and Retention in Alkali Surfactant Flooding
Authors: Fathaddin Muhammad Taufiq , Sudibjo Rachmat , Fajarwati H. Kartika , Riswati Shabrina Sri
Published: July 2019

Modeling works of alkali surfactant injection are presented in this paper, in order to analysis the effect of salinity on surfactant adsorption and retention. Simulation model was built using UTCHEM simulator. The simulation model was validated using laboratory experiment. From the laboratory experiment and modeling, it was found that surfactant retention, as well as surfactant adsorption, increased with the salinity. However they were not linearly related. The application of microemulsion Type III (salinity of 1.4% wt.) gave the optimum flooding. Although more surfactant was adsorbed and retained compared to microemulsion Type I (salinity of 1.4% wt.), but it yielded the highest recovery factor. The formation of microemulsion Type II (salinity of 2.0% wt.) should be avoided since it effectively caused surfactant loss due to surfactant adsorption and retention.
A POSSIBILIDADE DA EXECUÇÃO ANTECIPADA DOS EFEITOS EXTRAPENAIS DA SENTENÇA PENAL DIANTE DO HC 152.752/PR
Authors: Lima Hugo Henrique Ferreira , Dorigon Alessandro
Published: July 2019

Objetivou-se com este estudo apresentar uma análise dos efeitos extrapenais da sentença penal condenatória e, verificar a possibilidade da execução destes efeitos após a decisão em segunda instância. Nesse sentido, destaca-se o princípio da presunção de inocência, previsto no art. 5º, inciso LVII, e o da efetividade da jurisdição penal, devendo toda decisão definitiva no âmbito criminal atentar-se a estes postulados para sua execução. Assim, ao ser prolatada uma sentença penal condenatória, surgem alguns efeitos extrapenais que atingem o executado em outros ramos do direito, abrangendo, por exemplo, a reparação de dano à vítima, bem como, a perda de cargo público. Quanto à execução antecipada dos efeitos da condenação, destaca-se que o STF possibilitou isso ao efeito principal da sentença no julgamento do HC 152.752/PR, cumprindo as penas impostas nas sentenças. Porém, não há o mesmo entendimento por parte do Pretório Excelso no tocante aos efeitos extrapenais, que ao julgar o HC 126.292/SP, entendeu que os efeitos extrapenais só podem ser executados com o trânsito em julgado, gerando a suposição de que a execução antecipada destes efeitos viola o princípio da não culpabilidade. Verifica-se, assim, uma contradição entre tais entendimentos, sendo mais lógico a possibilidade da execução antecipada dos efeitos extrapenais da sentença penal, pois são efeitos acessórios da condenação, dando plena efetividade aos direitos pleiteados e atingidos diante da infração penal. Para realização deste estudo, utilizou- se como metodologia a pesquisa bibliográfica.
Pengaruh Faktor Keuangan dan Non Keuangan pada Keberhasilan UMKM di Kota Bandar Lampung
Authors: Nurmala Nurmala , Damayanti Damayanti , Yuniarti Evi
Published: July 2019

This study aims to analyze the influence of financial and non-financial factors on the success of SMEs in Bandar Lampung city. Financial factors considered as the indicators of success are profitability, liquidity and sales. Non-financial factors that become indicators are operational, entrepreneurial characteristics, company characteristics, conceptual variables, and entrepreneurial behavior. Of the 208 SMEs that were given questionnaires and asked for their financial statements, after reviewing the complete answers to the questionnaire and the availability of financial reports, 96 SMEs could be processed. The correlation and regression tests were carried out after the validity and reliability were tested. The results obtained indicate that the level of relationship between the two variables is strong. Based on the results of calculations and discussions, financial and non-financial factors have a significant influence on the success of SMEs in Bandar Lampung city, especially in Rajabasa and Kedaton.Keywords: Influence, Finance, Non-Finance, UMKM, and Bandar Lampung
On-field Rehabilitation Part 2: A 5-Stage Program for the Soccer Player Focused on Linear Movements, Multidirectional Movements, Soccer-Specific Skills, Soccer-Specific Movements, and Modified Practice
Authors: Buckthorpe Matthew , Della Villa Francesco , Della Villa Stefano , Roi Giulio Sergio
Published: July 2019

Synopsis

This paper is part 2 of a 2-part series aimed at discussing the key elements of on-field rehabilitation training. In part 1, we described 4 pillars underpinning high-quality on-field rehabilitation: (1) restoring movement quality, (2) physical conditioning, (3) restoring sport-specific skills, and (4) progressively developing chronic training load. In part 2, we describe how the pillars contribute to a 5-stage on-field rehabilitation program to help injured players transition to team practice and match play. We use the example of a soccer player with ambitions to return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The program moves through 5 field-based training stages: (1) linear movement, (2) multidirectional movement, (3) soccer-specific technical skills, (4) soccer-specific movement, and (5) practice simulation. The staged program is research based and facilitates communication, planning, control, and safety in return to sport following long-term injury. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(8):570–575. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.8952
Photo-excited Toluidine Blue Inhibits Full-Length Tau Aggregation in Alzheimer’ Disease
Authors: Dubey Tushar , Gorantla Nalini , Chandrashekara Kagepura , Chinnathambi Subashchandrabose
Published: July 2019

The aggregates of microtubule-associated protein Tau are the major hallmark of Alzheimer’sdisease. Tau aggregates accumulate intracellularly thus leading to generation of neuronal toxicity.Numerous approaches have been targeted against Tau protein aggregation, which include application of synthetic and natural compounds. Toluidine blue is a basic dye of phenothiazine family, which irradiation with 630 nm light converted to photo-excited form leading to generation of singlet oxygen species. In present work we studied the potency of Toluidine blue and photo-excited Toluidine blue against Tau aggregation. Biochemical and biophysical analysis using ThSfluorescence, SDS-PAGE, CD spectroscopy and electron microscopy suggested that Toluidine blueinhibits the aggregation of Tau in-vitro. The Photo-excited toluidine blue potentially dissolved the matured Tau fibrils, which was indicating disaggregation property of Toluidine blue. The cell biology studies including cytotoxicity assays, ROS production assays suggested Toluidine blue to be a biocompatible dye as reduced ROS levels and cytotoxicity was observed after exposure of Toluidine blue on Tau stressed cells. The photo-excited Toluidine blue modulates the cytoskeleton network in cells, which was supported by immunofluorescence studies of neuronal cells. The studies in UAS Tau E14 transgenic Drosophila model suggested that photo-excited Toluidine blue was potent to restore the survival and memory deficit of Drosophila. The overall findings of our studies suggests that Toluidine blue to be a potent molecule in rescuing the Tau-mediated pathology by inhibiting its aggregation, reducing the cytotoxicity; modulating the tubulin level and behavioral characteristics of Drosophila. Thus Toluidine blue can be addressed as a potent molecule against Alzheimer’s disease.
Bacteriocins: Production, different strategies of purification and applications
Authors: Vishakha Sharma  , Rahul C Ranveer  , Neelam Jain  , Gajender Kumar Aseri
Published: July 2019

Food safety and quality are the major concern for food processing industries. In today's world, people are getting more conscious about food safety parameters. In this regard, bacteriocin plays a major role in ensuring the safety and quality of food products. From those, LAB bacteriocins are of great interest due to their GRAS status. They are widely used in food preservation, agriculture and pharmaceutical industries. They have also been incorporated into food packaging material due to their both antibacterial and antifungal properties. In this review, we highlighted the possible ways to produce and purify bacteriocin and also the potential application to be used as a natural preservative.