bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endovascular Treatment of Aortic Arch Lesions Using Scalloped Endografts
Authors: Fernández-Alonso Leopoldo , Fernández Alonso Sebastián , Martínez Aguilar Esther , Santamarta Fariña Estéfana , Alegret Solé Jordi , López San Martín Marina , Atienza Pascual Margarita , Fernández-Domper Leopoldo , Centeno Vallepuga Roberto
Published: November 2017

Objective:

To present our early and midterm results using thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) with a custom-made proximal scalloped stent graft to accommodate left common carotid artery (LCCA) and innominate artery (IA) in treating aortic lesions involving the arch.

Materials and Methods:

Between February 2014 and April 2017, select patients presenting with aortic arch lesions and short proximal landing zone were treated by proximal scalloped Relay Plus stent grafts. Patient demographics, operative details, clinical outcomes, and complications were analyzed.

Results:

Six patients (50% male) with a median age of 71 years (range, 60-82) underwent scalloped TEVAR using thoracic custom-made Relay Plus stent graft to preserve flow in the proximal supra-aortic trunks. Target vessels for the scallop were LCCA in 5 cases and IA in 1 case. The technical success rate was 100%, and proximal seal was achieved in all cases with no type I endoleaks on completion angiography. The median follow-up period was 20 (7-32) months. No conversion to open surgical repair and no aortic rupture occurred. One patient had a distal type I endoleak on the 6-month computed tomography (CT) scan, and 1 patient had a proximal type I endoleak on the 12-month CT scan. There was no stroke, paraplegia, retrograde type A dissection, or other aortic-related complication. We routinely used temporary rapid right ventricular pacing to obtain a near-zero blood pressure level during the graft deployment. No complications were observed related to the use of rapid pacing.

Conclusion:

When anatomy allows, proximal scalloped stent graft to accommodate LCCA and IA is a viable therapeutic option in treating aortic lesions involving the arch with short proximal landing zones. In addition, these findings represent a strong argument for the use of temporary rapid pacing during graft deployment.
Enabling teacher-driven school-development and collaborative learning: An activity theory-based study of leadership as an overarching practice
Authors: Hirsh Åsa , Segolsson Mikael
Published: November 2017

The current study reported here is one within a research project aimed at the identification of enabling and constraining factors in a two-year school-development project at a large secondary school in Sweden, where all teaching staff were involved in improving the quality of instruction through collaborative analyses. In this project a development group, consisting of one principal and eight lead teachers/middle leaders, played a vital role. Based on activity theory and an understanding of leadership as practice involving individuals, organization and artefacts, this study sets out to deepen the knowledge of leadership practices in locally situated, teacher-driven, school-development work. Organizational changes occurring when the development group sought to achieve a model for systematic collaborative learning are analysed, with a specific focus on the role of middle leaders. Data were collected through observations and interviews during the project’s planning phase and through subsequent interviews and continuously written self-reflections during its operational phase. Several contradictions on various levels in the activity system are identified, and it is suggested that the school’s way of organizing teacher-driven school-development work – by transforming the rules, division of labor and mediating artifacts of the activity system – enabled collaborative learning and analyses of instruction that involved all teachers at the school.
The doctor–patient relationship and patient resilience in chronic pain: A qualitative approach to patients’ perspectives
Authors: Náfrádi Lilla , Kostova Zlatina , Nakamoto Kent , Schulz Peter J
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To study patients’ perspectives about the role of the doctor–patient relationship in promoting the resilience process.

Methods

We conducted in-depth interviews with 20 chronic pain patients. Using open-ended questions, the interviews explored aspects of the doctor–patient relationship that impacted the patients’ perceptions of their resilience. Thematic analysis built on an inductive, adaptive approach to data coding was employed to organize a representation of key factors affecting resilience.

Results

The themes emerging from the interviews inform us about how the different aspects of the doctor–patient relationship can promote patient resilience in chronic pain. Three main themes emerged: the doctor providing psychological support, promoting patients’ health literacy related to chronic pain and its treatment, and empowering the patients to cooperate in finding the right treatment. This fosters patients’ direct outcomes (feeling validated, health literate, and empowered), which, in turn, lead to adaptive coping responses and day-to-day disease management. These direct outcomes are crucial for patients to maintain socially and personally meaningful activities and their functional (physical) capacity.

Discussion

A doctor–patient relationship following the precepts of the patient-centered care is a significant resource that can lead to increased patient resilience. Thus, future interventions promoting patient resilience might consider addressing the doctor–patient relationship.
Imaging of Folate Receptor Expressing Macrophages in the Rat Groove Model of Osteoarthritis: Using a New DOTA-Folate Conjugate
Authors: de Visser Huub M. , Korthagen Nicoline M. , Müller Cristina , Ramakers Ruud M. , Krijger Gerard C. , Lafeber Floris P. J. G. , Beekman Freek J. , Mastbergen Simon C. , Weinans Harrie
Published: November 2017

Objective

To evaluate the presence and localization of folate receptor expressing macrophages in the rat groove model of osteoarthritis and determine the suitability of a new folate conjugate with albumin-binding entity (cm09) for in vivo SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) analysis.

Design

In male Wistar rats, local cartilage damage was induced in addition to a standard ( n = 10) or high-fat diet ( n = 6). After 12 weeks, 111In labeled folate conjugates were administered, and SPECT/CT (computed tomography) imaging was performed after 24 hours. Subsequently, osteoarthritis severity and folate receptor expression were assessed using (immuno)-histological sections.

Results

In vivo SPECT/CT imaging of the new folate conjugate (cm09) was as useful as a folate conjugate without albumin-binding entity in the groove model of osteoarthritis with less renal accumulation. Induction of cartilage damage on a standard diet resulted in no effect on the amount of folate receptor expressing macrophages compared with the contralateral sham operated joints. In contrast, inducing cartilage damage in the high-fat diet group resulted in 28.4% increase of folate receptor expression as compared with the nondamaged control joints. Folate receptor expressing cells were predominantly present in the synovial lining and in subchondral bone as confirmed by immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions

Folate receptor expression, and thus macrophage activation, can clearly be demonstrated in vivo, in small animal models of osteoarthritis using the new 111In-folate conjugate with specific binding to the folate receptor. Increased macrophage activity only plays a role in the groove model of osteoarthritis when applied in a high-fat diet induced dysmetabolic condition, which is in line with the higher inflammatory state of that specific model.
Recombinant human factor VIIa (rFVIIa) in hemophilia: mode of action and evidence to date
Authors: Giansily-Blaizot Muriel , Schved Jean-François
Published: November 2017

Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) is a bypassing agent widely used both in the treatment and prevention of hemorrhagic complications due to hemophilia with inhibitor. In such cases, antihemophilic factors cannot be used. The normal physiology of factor VII/ factor VIIa (FVII/FVIIa) in the hemostatic process requires the presence of tissue factor (TF) that links to FVII leading to a FVIIa-TF complex which activates both factor X and factor IX. The therapeutic use of rFVIIa requires high amount of FVIIa. Some studies demonstrate that FVIIa at high doses still requires tissue factor for function, whereas others suggest that FVIIa activates FX directly on the platelet surface, in a TF-independent manner. In the present article, we discuss the arguments supporting both TF-dependent and TF-independent modes of action. Finally, the coexistence of both TF-dependent and TF-independent mechanisms cannot be excluded.
Clinical conceptualization of workaholism
Authors: Loscalzo Yura , Giannini Marco
Published: November 2017

Workaholism is a behavioral addiction that, while widely studied, is still lacking a definition shared by the scientific community. The aim of this theoretical paper is to propose a new model that is at the same time comprehensive and easy to test, with an approach based on a critical analysis of the literature. We give particular attention to reviews of literature and theoretical and empirical papers published since 2011, because even the most recent reviews do not fully encompass the last few years. We proposed a comprehensive model, which defines workaholism as a clinical condition that is characterized by both externalizing (i.e., addiction) and internalizing (i.e., obsessive-compulsive) symptoms and by low levels of work engagement; from this there arises the distinction between disengaged and engaged workaholics (i.e., a less impairing subtype of workaholism). Finally, we propose DSM-like criteria for workaholism and a research agenda for future studies.
A review of orexin’s unprecedented potential as a novel, highly-specific treatment for various localized and metastatic cancers
Authors: Graybill Nicole L , Weissig Volkmar
Published: November 2017

A systematic review was conducted to categorize the types of cancerous tissues that express orexin receptors and also to examine the effect of in vitro administration of orexin A or B to corresponding cell samples. Comprehensive literature analyses of primary experimental studies were performed. The results of the review included an increased frequency of orexin receptor expression in many colon and prostate cancer tissues and an upward trend of pro-apoptotic activity in these aggressive cell types.
Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease in St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Results of a Pilot Newborn Screening Program
Authors: Williams Shelly-Ann , Browne-Ferdinand Beneka , Smart Ynolde , Morella Kristen , Reed Susan G. , Kanter Julie
Published: November 2017

Objective: To pilot a newborn screening program for sickle cell disease (SCD) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines using a novel partnership method to determine the feasibility of a universal newborn screening program in this country. Methods: A prospective study of mothers and their newborns was conducted between January 1, 2015, and November 1, 2015, at the country’s main hospital. Mothers of infants born at this hospital were offered screening for SCD for their infants. If accepted, the newborn’s heel-stick blood specimen was obtained and mailed to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control Newborn Screening Laboratory for testing. Samples were analyzed for variant hemoglobins using standard laboratory techniques and results were communicated to local physicians. Feasibility was determined by a benchmark of having >50% of SCD patients receive the diagnosis and initiate disease-specific care by 3 months of age. Descriptive statistics were completed using SAS 9.4. Results: There were 1147 newborn infants screened for SCD. Of these, 123 (10.7%) had results indicative of sickle trait and 3 patients (0.3%) were diagnosed with SCD: 1 with HbSS and 2 with HbSC. All 3 patients with SCD received treatment before 3 months of age. Conclusions: A newborn screening program is feasible in this population when partnered with an established newborn screening laboratory.
Three-dimensional visibility graph analysis and its application
Authors: Lu Yi , Gou Zhonghua , Ye Yu , Sheng Qiang
Published: November 2017

Graph-based visibility analysis, developed from space syntax and social network theory, embraces mutual visibility between locations in a spatial system. It helps designers and researchers to decode spatial cognition and behavior, but methodological constraints limit its application to two-dimensional floor plans. In this study, we propose a new visibility graph analysis that can be used in three-dimensional built environments, such as multilevel atrium buildings or urban environments with canopies or overpass bridges. Furthermore, we draw a distinction between a generic visibility graph and a targeted visibility graph. In the former, an occupiable location is considered as both the origin and target of visibility lines. In the latter, we further take into account the visible space or specific targets in a system. Visible locations are spaces people can see but cannot necessarily physically occupy. With this differentiation, the visibility graph system is more amenable to new applications in three-dimensional architectural and urban design while retaining a mapping back to the original two-dimensional visibility graph method through the generic visibility graph. Four examples illustrate the application of the proposed visibility graph analysis in complex three-dimensional building and urban environments.
Early clinical experiences with nintedanib in three UK tertiary interstitial lung disease centres
Authors: Toellner Hannah , Hughes G. , Beswick W. , Crooks M. G. , Donaldson C. , Forrest I. , Hart S. P. , Leonard C. , Major M. , Simpson A. J. , Chaudhuri N.
Published: November 2017

Background

Nintedanib has been shown to slow disease progression in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). It was approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in January 2016 for IPF patients with a forced vital capacity (FVC) of 50–80% in the United Kingdom (UK).

Aim

To report real world data about our early clinical experience using nintedanib in 187 patients with a multi‐disciplinary (MDT) diagnosis of IPF in a manufacturer funded patient in need scheme (three UK centres) prior to NICE approval.

Methods

All patients with a MDT diagnosis of IPF from December 2014 to January 2016 commenced on nintedanib were included. Demographic details, adverse events (AEs) and where available lung function results were retrospectively collected from clinical letters.

Results

187 patients (76% males) with a median age of 72 years (49–89) were treated with nintedanib. The average pre‐treatment FVC was 81.1 ± 19.8% and diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide was 43.9 ± 15% (n = 82). Fifty percent of patients started nintedanib because they were ineligible for pirfenidone due to an FVC > 80%. The median treatment course was 8 ± 4 months. The majority of patients experienced 1–3 AEs with nintedanib (52%, n = 97). The most frequent AEs were diarrhoea (50%), nausea (36%), reduced appetite (24%), tiredness (20%) and gastro‐oesophageal reflux (18%). The majority of AEs resulted in no change in treatment (64%, n = 461). 21% (n = 150) of AEs resulted in a dose reduction and 13% (n = 94) necessitated discontinuation of treatment. 1 in 5 patients discontinued treatment either temporarily or on a permanent basis during the monitoring period. In a select cohort of patients, a statistically significant greater proportion of patients remained stable or improved and a lower proportion declined, as depicted by FVC changes of > 5% after nintedanib commencement (P < 0.05 using Chi squared test).

Conclusions

Nintedanib is well tolerated and has an acceptable safety profile. Only 8% of those reporting diarrhoea discontinued treatment either on a temporary or permanent basis. There were no signals with respect to increased cardiovascular morbidity or major bleeding risk. This is in keeping with the INPULSIS clinical trial findings but in a real world cohort.
The Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology Consensus Statement on the Anesthetic Management of Pregnant and Postpartum Women Receiving Thromboprophylaxis or Higher Dose Anticoagulants
Authors: Leffert Lisa , Butwick Alexander , Carvalho Brendan , Arendt Katherine , Bates Shannon M. , Friedman Alex , Horlocker Terese , Houle Timothy , Landau Ruth
Published: November 2017

Venous thromboembolism is recognized as a leading cause of maternal death in the United States. Thromboprophylaxis has been highlighted as a key preventive measure to reduce venous thromboembolism–related maternal deaths. However, the expanded use of thromboprophylaxis in obstetrics will have a major impact on the use and timing of neuraxial analgesia and anesthesia for women undergoing vaginal or cesarean delivery and other obstetric surgeries. Experts from the Society of Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology, the American Society of Regional Anesthesia, and hematology have collaborated to develop this comprehensive, pregnancy-specific consensus statement on neuraxial procedures in obstetric patients receiving thromboprophylaxis or higher dose anticoagulants. To date, none of the existing anesthesia societies’ recommendations have weighed the potential risks of neuraxial procedures in the presence of thromboprophylaxis, with the competing risks of general anesthesia with a potentially difficult airway, or maternal or fetal harm from avoidance or delayed neuraxial anesthesia. Furthermore, existing guidelines have not integrated the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anticoagulants in the obstetric population. The goal of this consensus statement is to provide a practical guide of how to appropriately identify, prepare, and manage pregnant women receiving thromboprophylaxis or higher dose anticoagulants during the ante-, intra-, and postpartum periods. The tactics to facilitate multidisciplinary communication, evidence-based pharmacokinetic and spinal epidural hematoma data, and Decision Aids should help inform risk–benefit discussions with patients and facilitate shared decision making.
Unexpected Cardiac Computed Tomography Findings in Patients With Postoperative Myocardial Injury
Authors: Grobben Remco B. , van Waes Judith A. R. , Leiner Tim , Peelen Linda M. , de Borst Gert Jan , Vogely Henri C. , Grobbee Diederick E. , Doevendans Pieter A. , van Klei Wilton A. , Nathoe Hendrik M.
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND:

Postoperative myocardial injury (PMI) is a strong predictor of mortality after noncardiac surgery. PMI is believed to be attributable to coronary artery disease (CAD), yet its etiology is largely unclear. We aimed to quantify the prevalence of significant CAD in patients with and without PMI using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA).

METHODS:

This prospective cohort study included patients of 60 years or older without a history of cardiac disease and with and without PMI after intermediate- to high-risk noncardiac surgery. PMI was defined as any serum troponin I level ≥60 ng/L on the first 3 postoperative days. Main exclusion criteria were known cardiac disease and postoperative ischemic symptoms or electrocardiography abnormalities. Noninvasive imaging consisted of a postoperative CCTA. Main outcome was CAD defined as >50% coronary stenosis on CCTA.

RESULTS:

The analysis included 66 patients. Median peak troponin levels in the PMI (n = 46) and control group (n = 20) were 150 (interquartile range, 120–298) vs 15 (interquartile range, 10–31) ng/L (P < .01). CAD was found in 23 patients with PMI (50%) vs 3 without PMI (15%; relative risk, 3.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–9.8). Remarkably, pulmonary embolism was present in 15 patients with PMI (33%) versus in 4 without PMI (20%; relative risk, 1.6; 95% confidence interval, 0.6–4.3). None of the patients died within 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS:

In patients without a history of cardiac disease, PMI after noncardiac surgery was associated with CAD. In addition, a clinically silent pulmonary embolism was found in one-third of patients with PMI. This urges further research to improve clinical workup using imaging and may have important clinical implications.
Colloids and the Microcirculation
Authors: He Huaiwu , Liu Dawei , Ince Can
Published: November 2017

Colloid solutions have been advocated for use in treating hypovolemia due to their expected effect on improving intravascular retention compared with crystalloid solutions. Because the ultimate desired effect of fluid resuscitation is the improvement of microcirculatory perfusion and tissue oxygenation, it is of interest to study the effects of colloids and crystalloids at the level of microcirculation under conditions of shock and fluid resuscitation, and to explore the potential benefits of using colloids in terms of recruiting the microcirculation under conditions of hypovolemia. This article reviews the physiochemical properties of the various types of colloid solutions (eg, gelatin, dextrans, hydroxyethyl starches, and albumin) and the effects that they have under various conditions of hypovolemia in experimental and clinical scenarios.
Mind the (sr)GAP – roles of Slit–Robo GAPs in neurons, brains and beyond
Authors: Lucas Bethany , Hardin Jeff
Published: November 2017

The Slit–Robo GTPase-activating proteins (srGAPs) were first identified as potential Slit–Robo effectors that influence growth cone guidance. Given their N-terminal F-BAR, central GAP and C-terminal SH3 domains, srGAPs have the potential to affect membrane dynamics, Rho family GTPase activity and other binding partners. Recent research has clarified how srGAP family members act in distinct ways at the cell membrane, and has expanded our understanding of the roles of srGAPs in neuronal and non-neuronal cells. Gene duplication of the human-specific paralog of srGAP2 has resulted in srGAP2 family proteins that may have increased the density of dendritic spines and promoted neoteny of the human brain during crucial periods of human evolution, underscoring the importance of srGAPs in the unique sculpting of the human brain. Importantly, srGAPs also play roles outside of the nervous system, including during contact inhibition of cell movement and in establishing and maintaining cell adhesions in epithelia. Changes in srGAP expression may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders, cancer metastasis and inflammation. As discussed in this Review, much remains to be discovered about how this interesting family of proteins functions in a diverse set of processes in metazoans and the functional roles srGAPs play in human disease.
PARAMETERS EFFECTING FORCED VORTEX FORMATION IN BLADE PASSAGEWAY OF DYNAMIC AIR CLASSIFIER
Authors: Adamčík Martin , Svěrák Tomáš , Peciar Peter
Published: November 2017

Air classification of particulate materials is a method of classifying particles into coarse and fine fractions based on their size, density, or shape. Performance of the rotor air classifier is affected by operating parameters which include the classifier rotor speed, air inlet velocity and material feed rate. Effects of operating and structural parameters on turbulent flow field patterns inside of a dynamic air classifier are investigated. Increasing the computing power, together with new turbulence models and
approaches, to simulate complex fully turbulent problems by solving Navier-Stokes equations allows studying and capturing smaller flow structures and properties more accurately. Velocity vector maps for varying operating parameters are studied by means of numerical simulations. The experimental section includes a visualization of flow patterns and velocity vector maps in the rotor region by the use of the particle image velocimetry (PIV). Results are compared and discussed.
A METHOD FOR EVALUATION OF NON-UNIFORM RADIANT-CONVECTIVE LOAD ON HUMAN BODY DURING MENTAL WORK
Authors: Prokšová Zuská Lenka , Kabrhel Michal
Published: November 2017

The objective of this study was to develop a documentation for the amendment of the microclimatic part of the Czech Government Regulation, particularly in a non-uniform radiant-convective load evaluation. Changes in regulation were made based on experimental data obtained on a group of experimental individuals in a climatic chamber. One of the objectives of the climatic chamber experiments was to evaluate whether there was a possibility to use an alternative method, which utilizes a new value – stereotemperature, for the assessment. A group of 24 women was exposed to a non-uniform radiant-convective load in a climatic chamber for 1 hour during their computer work. Measurements were divided according to the globe temperature into 3 stages. The physical parameters of air were continuously measured: the air temperature, globe temperature, air velocity, radiant temperature, relative humidity, stereotemperature and physiological parameters. Thermal sensations of experimental subjects were expressed in the seven-point scale according to EN ISO 7730. The thermal sensation correlated very well with the difference of stereotemperature and the globe temperature. The stereotemperature correlated very well with the radiant temperature. In this work, the composed equations were used to develop the limit values for the thermal stress evaluation in the uniform and non-uniform thermal environment at workplaces. It is possible to determine how the body of an exposed person perceives the non-uniform climatic conditions in the indoor environment, by adding the stereotemperature to government regulations.
Freiheit und Nation
Authors: Österbauer Veronika
Published: November 2017

Prägend für das Nationsverständnis Argentiniens war das Bild, das die politisch wie literarisch einflussreiche generación del 37 von der künftigen Nation zeichnete. Doch welchen spezifischen Beitrag kann Erzählliteratur zur Konstruktion der Nation leisten? Dieser Frage widmet sich Veronika Österbauer anhand von Echeverrías El matadero (1839), Sarmientos Facundo (1845), Mitres Soledad (1847), Mármols Amalia (1855) und Alberdis Peregrinación de Luz del Día (1874). In interdisziplinärer Perspektive werden die textinternen Inszenierungen der Nation erstmals im Verhältnis zu Freiheit und Liberalismus untersucht und so für Politik-, Literatur- und Kulturwissenschaft gleichermaßen geöffnet.
Um-Wege zur Un-Wahrheit
Authors: Schmutzer Manfred E.A.
Published: November 2017

Das Zeitalter der Vernunft neigt sich dem Ende zu. Vernunft hat sich zu oft als Un-Vernunft erwiesen, alte Un-Wahrheiten wurden wahr und umgekehrt. Manfred E.A. Schmutzer zeigt Alternativen auf. Dabei wird die Philosophie Heideggers genauso weitergedacht wie jene des arabischen Philosophen al-Farabi aus dem 10. Jahrhundert. Wesentliches Resultat der Überlegungen ist, dass sich Erkenntnis nicht durch Wissenschaft allein gewinnen lässt und Wahrheit sich erst durch Kunst erweist. Die Aufsatzsammlung folgt daher einer Dramaturgie, die absichtsvoll den Regeln der aristotelischen Poetik entspricht. Es folgt: Wissenschafter sollten auch Dichter sein. Diese Möglichkeit wird im zweiten Teil des Bandes mithilfe einer unüblich poetischen Sprache demonstriert.
Allgäu reloaded
Authors: Löffler Katharina
Published: November 2017

Das Regionale hat Konjunktur - auch in der Belletristik. Die erfolreichsten Romane des deutschsprachigen Regionalkrimi-Genres sind jene der »Kluftinger«-Reihe von Volker Klüpfel und Michael Kobr. An den Allgäuer Orten, die den Romanen als Schauplätze dienen, übersetzen Destinationsmanager die literarischen Narrative in touristische Angebote. Katharina Löffler ethnografiert sowohl die Effekte dieser Fiktionalisierung von Region als auch das performative Potenzial von Literatur. Der kulturwissenschaftliche Ansatz geht über textzentrierte und literaturgeografische Analysen hinaus und macht nachvollziehbar, wie verschiedene Akteur_innen mit der Ingebrauchnahme von Populärlektüren je eigene Bedeutungen von »Allgäu« und neue Raumwirklichkeiten schaffen.
Immobilization of dimethylamine and aniline using soft lignocelluloses material (abelia chinensis sawdust) for controlling striga hermonthica in sorghum field
Authors: Lazwan Rindap , Daben Janet , Agbalaga Rechit , Dashak Dayil
Published: November 2017

Chemical modifications of lignocelluloses materials are advance development that are fast and convenient to convert the low value woody residues to create channels for controlling the release of organic manure to proffer solutions to farmers in the increasing soil acidity, rapid weed's growth, soil infertility and food scarcity. The study investigates the physic-chemical parameters, and the effect of immobilized nitrogenous bases on oxidized sawdust for controlling Striga hermonthica in the sorghum field. The results indicate that the moisture content increases with increase particle size as water absorption capacity increases with time and size, thereby, ash content decrease with increase size. The control, oxidized and immobilized sawdusts were analyzed using FT-IR and it was clear that pretreated sawdust of 0.08-0. 10M KIO4 oxidized the exposed hydroxyl groups of the lignocelluloses material to the carbonyl group but were unable in 0.04-0.06M KIO4. Likewise, the absorption bands showed that the nitrogenous bases were incorporated while carbonyl absorptions were still observed. The effect of immobilized Dimethylamine concentrations on gradual release on sorghum grows progressively with the absence of S. hermonthica while aniline grows faster than Dimethylamine at 0.5-1.0M then diminished at 1.5M than Dimethylamine. The application of immobilized amines on the sorghum field showed that this invention would enhance sorghum productivity through striga control.
Difabel dalam Alquran
Authors: Handayana Sri
Published: November 2017

This paper is a descriptive analysis of the Quranic views and attitudes on the people with disabilities. It starts with examining verses from the Quran and Prophetic Traditions (Hadith) as well as relevant social reality. Despite the fact that the Quran teaches equality and diversity, Muslims attitudes towards people with disabilities may vary, depending on their perspectives of disability influenced not only by their faith but also their social context. This paper even tries to give a particular emphasis on hidden social messages in the Quran that should be implemented in current everyday life.[Tulisan ini bertujuan mendeskripsikan pandangan serta sikap Alquran terhadap difabel. Penafsiran dimulai dari menelusuri ayat-ayat yang berhubungan dengan difabel dan selanjutnya dihubungkan dengan realitas sosial. Sekalipun Alquran mengajarkan kesetaraan dan keragaman, sikap umat Islam terhadap difabel mungkin saja berbeda tergantung perspektif mereka terhadap difabel dan lingkungan sosial di mana mereka berada. Tulisan ini juga mencoba untuk mengeksplorasi secara mendalam pesan-pesan sosial tersembunyi dari Alquran terkait difabel sehingga dapat diimplementasikan pada zaman sekarang.]
An investigation of ecocentric and anthropocentric attitudes and antipathy towards environment in athletes
Authors: Akgül Beyza Merve , Birinci Cenk , Göral Şenol , Karaküçük Suat
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study is to examine the ecocentric, anthropocentric and antipathetic attitudes towards the environment regarding with different variables. Study group is composed of 413 athletes randomly selected from directly nature sports and also sports that is not related to nature. To collect data, ecocentric, anthropocentric and antipathetic attitudes towards the protection of the environment scale is used. To analyze the data, descriptive statistics of the athletes’ attitudes towards environment were calculated. For other variables’ comparison, independent t-test and ANOVA were applied. As a result; amongst athletes’ the ecocentric attitudes’ mean was found the highest. Athletes’ ecocentric attitude values vary only. According to their educational level; anthropocentric attitude values vary according to their sport type and educational level; antipathetic attitudes towards the protection of the environment vary according to sex, sports type, educational level, perceived income level and also the living environment. s conclusion; athletes with university and higher educational levels have higher ecocentric scores than athletes with high school and lower education levels; athletes from nature sports and athletes with high school and lower educational levels have higher anthropocentric scores than athletes from indoor sports and athletes with university and higher educational levels; finally, men participants than women participant, athletes from nature sports than athletes from indoor sports, athletes with high school and lower educational levels than athletes with university and higher educational levels, participants with high and low perceived income levels than participants with average perceived income levels, participants living in country side than participants living in cities have higher antipathetic attitude scores towards the protection of the environment.
A bioinformatics approach for identification of miR-100 targets implicated in breast cancer
Authors: Shamsi R. , Seifi-Alan M. , Behmanesh A. , Omrani M. D. , Mirfakhraie R. , Ghafouri-Fard S.
Published: November 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small endogenous non-coding RNAs with principal roles in regulation of protein expression via translation repression and mRNA degradation. Based on these roles they are implicated in tumourigenesis processes as well. Among them is miR-100 which can exert both tumor suppressor and oncogenic functions in various cancer types. In breast cancer, it has been shown to affect apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition as well as tumor-related signaling pathways. In the present study, we introduce a novel approach for identification of miR-100 target genes which are possibly implicated in breast cancer pathogenesis. We applied 14 online tools for prediction of miR-100 target genes and used gene expression data produced by DNA microarray technology. By combining these two sets of data we proposed a list of miR-100 target genes with possible involvement in breast cancer. Considering the role of miR-100 as a context-dependent chief regulator of the cancer-related signaling pathways and a potential target for therapeutic modalities, identification of its targets would pave the way for designing new approaches for cancer treatment or sensitization of cancer cells to standard treatments.
LPS-induced Src family kinases activity mediates IL-10 production through activation of STAT3 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with Behçet's Disease
Authors: Irtegun Kandemir S. , Tekin M. A. , Bozkurt M. , Dagli A. Z. , Kalkanli-Tas S.
Published: November 2017

Behçet's disease (BD) is achronic inflammatory disorder characterized by recurrent oral and genital ulcers, uveitis and skin lesions. Although,the pathogenesis of BD remains poorly understood, excessive or dysregulatedcytokine production including IL-10 is associated with BD. Revealing the key molecular mechanism by which IL-10 expression is regulated is crucial to understanding the pathogenesis of BD. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Src family kinases (SFKs) are upstream mediators of STAT3/IL-10 pathway in peripheral blood mono nuclear cells(PBMCs) of active BD patients.Twenty active BD patients and twenty healthy subjects used as control were included in the study. PBMCs were isolated from total blood by density gradient centrifugation.Western blot and ELISA methods were applied to analyzelipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced SFKs/STAT3/IL10 signaling pathway in BD.Inhibition of SFKs activity suppressed LPS-induced IL-10 production in PBMCs fromboth controls and active BD patients. Similarly, blockage of STAT3 activation abrogated LPS-induced IL-10 production. However, LPS-induced STAT3 activation required for IL-10 production was found to be dependent on SFKs activity as LPS-induced STAT3 phosphorylation was reduced by the inhibition of SFKs activity in PBMCs of active BD patients.SFKs activity is essential for LPS-induced STAT3/IL-10 pathway in PBMCs of active BD patients. Manipulation of the SFKs activity may offer a novel therapeutic approach for BD.
Induced dedifferentiation of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) embryonic cells and its relationship with agronomic traits
Authors: Naseri R. , Cheghamirza K. , Zarei L. , Saroei E.
Published: November 2017

This study was carried out to investigate the response of 42 Iranian and European barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivars to induced dedifferentiation of embryonic cells via immature embryo culture and understand the relationship between embryo culture characters and agronomic traits. The cultivars were evaluated for dedifferentiation of embryonic cells or callus induction from immature embryo culture based on a completely randomized design with unequal replication. Immature embryos were placed scutellum down on cell dedifferentiation medium based on MS and supplemented with 2.5 mg/l 2,4-D. The developed calli were transferred to MS regeneration medium with different concentrations and combinations of plant growth regulators. The results of group comparisons showed that Iranian cultivars were greater than European cultivars regarding callus growth rate, callus primary diameter and total regenerated plantlets. The path correlation analysis revealed that grain width and kernel filling period had the highest positive and negative direct effects on embryo culture traits, respectively. Clustering cultivars based on the embryo culture characters and agronomic traits divided the cultivars into three groups. The third group consisted of the cultivars which all of them were with the highest mean for flag leaf length, days to anthesis, grain yield, callus growth rate and callus primary diameter. Mantel test revealed a negative (-0.101) and significant correlation (P<0.01) between embryo culture characters and agronomic traits. The significant relationships between few numbers of embryo culture characters and agronomic traits confirm that these characteristics could be genetically dependent and also tissue culture characters can be estimated from agronomic data.
Al-Pillared-Montmorillonite (AlPMt)/Poly(Methyl Methacrylate)(PMMA) Nanocomposites: The Effects of Solvent Types and Synthesis Methods
Authors: Kizilduman B. K. , Alkan M. , Doğan M. , Turhan Y.
Published: November 2017

Al-pillared-montmorillonite (AlPMt)/poly(methyl methacrylate)(PMMA) nanocomposites were synthesized via melt blending method (MBM) and solution blending method (SBM). FTIR-ATR spectroscopy proved the interaction of AlPMt with PMMA polymer matrix. The thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimeter analyses showed that the thermal stability and the glass transition temperature (Tg) of polymer matrix shifted to higher temperatures with increasing AlPMt content. Images showed that AlPMt dispersed at nanometer scale in polymer matrix. Contact angle measurements demonstrated that the hydrophilicity of the PMMA increased with incorporation of AlPMt. However, the thermal stability of clay/polymer nanocomposites (CPNs) was significantly changed with CPN preparation method.
Low intensity surplus activated sludge pretreatment before anaerobic digestion
Authors: Suschka Jan , Grübel Klaudiusz
Published: November 2017

Sewage sludge (municipal, or industrial) treatment is still a problem in so far that it is not satisfactorily resolved in terms of cost and final disposal. Two common forms of sludge disposal are possible; the first being direct disposal on land (including agriculture) and the second being incineration (ash production), although neither of these methods are universally applied. Simplifying the issue, direct sludge disposal on land is seldom applied for sanitary and environmental reasons, while incineration is not popular for financial (high costs) reasons. Very often medium and large wastewater treatment plants apply anaerobic digestion for sludge hygiene principles, reducing the amount to be disposed and for biogas (energy) production. With the progress in sewage biological treatment aiming at nutrient removal, primary sludge has been omitted in the working processes and only surplus activated sludge requires handling. Anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge (WAS) is more difficult due to the presence of microorganisms, the decomposition of which requires a relatively long time for hydrolysis. In order to upgrade the hydrolysis effects, several different pre-treatment processes have already been developed and introduced. The additional pre-treatment processes applied are aimed at residual sludge bulk mass minimization, shortening of the anaerobic digestion process or higher biogas production, and therefore require additional energy. The water-energy-waste Nexus (treads of) of the benefits and operational difficulties, including energy costs are discussed in this paper. The intensity of pre-treatment processes to upgrade the microorganism’s hydrolysis has crucial implications. Here a low intensity pre-treatment process, alkalisation and hydrodynamic disintegration - hybrid process - were presented in order to achieve sufficient effects of WAS anaerobic digestion. A sludge digestion efficiency increase expressed as 45% biogas additional production and 52% of the total or volatile solids reduction has been confirmed.
Transformations of mercury in processes of solid fuel combustion – review
Authors: Czaplicka Marianna , Pyta Halina
Published: November 2017

The paper presents current reports on kinetics and mechanisms of reactions with mercury which take place in the exhaust gases, discharged from the processes of combustion of solid fuels (coals). The three main stages were considered. The first one, when thermal decomposition of Hg components takes place together with formation of elemental mercury (Hg0). The second one with homogeneous oxidation of Hg0to Hg2+by other active components of exhaust gases (e.g. HCl). The third one with heterogeneous reactions of gaseous mercury (the both - elemental and oxidised Hg) and solid particles of fl y ash, leading to generation of particulate-bound mercury (Hgp). Influence of exhaust components and their concentrations, temperature and retention time on the efficiency of mercury oxidation was determined. The issues concerning physical (gas-solid) and chemical speciation of mercury (fractionation Hg0-Hg2+) as well as factors which have influence on the mercury speciation in exhaust gases are discussed in detail.
Use of DAIME for characterisation of activated sludge flocs
Authors: Gnida Anna
Published: November 2017

Monitoring of activated sludge flocs may provide important information for effective operation and control of wastewater treatment. The research objective is to demonstrate methodology for activated sludge image processing aimed to describe morphological characteristics of activated sludge flocs. The proposed software- -based method was presented and verified by analysis of several activated sludge samples. The results show high efficiency of image segmentation and floc recognition of more than 94% floc components. The analysis of a series of 50 pictures gives rapid and reliable results and can be performed in an automatic or semiautomatic mode. Given inherent heterogeneity of activated sludge flocs, multiple and repeated sample images capture (processing of 50 pictures at a time, repeated at least 4 times ) is recommended.
Assessement of Interaction between pH and Different forms of Carbon Dioxide from Naturally Underground Aquatic Ecosystems
Authors: Ivona David , Gabriela Busuioc
Published: November 2017

In this work were evaluated the correlations between different forms of carbon dioxide naturally existing in fountain waters and the pH. Water samples were taken from five wells equally placed on the surface of Picior de Munte area in Dambovita county and were collected in each of the four seasons (spring, summer, autumn and winter). They were evaluated two forms of carbon dioxide (one was the aggressive CO2 and the other was that sequestered in bicarbonates molecules). It was used titration method based on the principle of conversion calcium carbonate in to bicarbonate form. The results showed that both forms of carbon dioxide naturally founding in underground water are related to the pH, and also are varying from a season to the other. For example, both forms of carbon dioxide significantly were influenced by pH in summer and in spring also, the proof being the values of regression index wich was 0.583 and respectively 0.679. That is showing a moderate to strong influence depending on the season.

In autumn and winter, the influence of pH on carbon forms analyzed was lowest one, the regression index value being 0.309 and 0.260.

Also, the influence of carbon dioxide forms on the water pH level varied also from a season to another. Thus, carbon dioxide from bicarbonates strongly influenced the water pH in spring and autumn seasons, so the regression index value was 0.783 and respectively 0.548. But in winter and summer the influence ranged from moderate to weak (R2 = 0.413 and 0.316).

The aggressive carbon dioxide significantly influenced water pH in the summer season, the fact is proved by the value of regression index which was high, 0.857. In the others seasons the influence of aggressive carbon dioxide was insignificant.
Influence of Ecosystem and Technology on the Triticale Harvest Quality in Moldova
Authors: Nitu Iulia , Nitu Adrian Cristinel
Published: November 2017

Lately, both internationally as well as nationally, due to high demand for bakery products has increased the area of culture triticale particularly harsh wheat areas. This is due to the adaptability of this species and its properties. Through this study we wanted to present a statement of quality crop of triticale grown in Moldova.
Ostracizing linguistic forms through metalinguistic comments: The case of ge-dikmek-t
Authors: Dorleijn Margreet
Published: November 2017

This paper considers the relevance of studying metalinguistic comments about the embedding of Turkish infinitives in Dutch morphology. It focusses on bilingual Dutch and Turkish spoken in the Netherlands. Data of computer mediated communication (CMC) is used. The paper reports on an analysis of the (sparse) occurrence of Turkish verb embedding in Dutch and the accompanying metalinguistic comments. For this, an exploration of the internet as well as of a data set compiled form Turkish-Dutch discussion fora consisting of 1.335.592 words was conducted.

I am indebted to Dirk Vet, University of Amsterdam, for invaluable help and assistance with technical issues concerning the compilation of the data corpus. Also I would like to thank Maarten Kossmann and Yaron Matras for their valuable comments. Remaining flaws are mine.

A comparison is made with the reverse verbal construction in Turkish-Dutch bilingual speech (Dutch infinitives + Turkish infinitiveyapmak‘to do’). The absence of evaluative comments on the latter construction suggests it has been accepted as norm-behavior in the Turkish-Dutch community. Embedding of Turkish verbs in Dutch morphology, by contrast, is not accepted. The paper discusses the extent to which metalinguistic comment can be used as a diagnostic tool to uncover implicit norms of non-standard varieties.