bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expert model of the most important methodical exercises for fast skiing turns teaching
Authors: Kuna Danijela , Džajić Sanjin , Mastelić Marko
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this research was to establish the expert model of learning and evaluation the most important methodical exercises for teaching short skiing turns in advanced skiing school. Participants were 20 skiing experts from different states. After the experts model was established, experts selected 5 most important methodical exercises for teaching short skiing turns. According to with the goal of the research, total frequency sum of expert choice of the most important methodical exercises has been used (O-observed; E-expected), while the difference between frequencies of expert evaluation has been tested by non-parametric Chi-square test (χ²) and statistic meaning of differences (p). By natural selection, the ranking was made, and selection of the most important methodical exercises for teaching short skiing turns. After data processing, statistical differences were significant in frequencies in which experts choose most important methodical exercises (c2=17.30; p=0.14) while the differences between the values of most important methodical exercises were not established (c2=2.15; p=0.91). Statistical differences based on nationality were not established. Based on the obtained results it can be concluded that the experts in spite of the structural differences and specificity within each ski schools are equally recognized and valued those most important methodical exercises who contain the basic characteristics of effective lessons. This research is a foundation for future modeling which has made a selection of significant errors and exercises for their elimination, and their hierarchical classification. 
Gender-related differences in motor abilities of children in the fencing school
Authors: Smajić Miroslav , Čokorilo Nebojša , Petrović Vladimir , Štajer Valdemar , Mićić Raško , Ilić Maja
Published: July 2018

Fencing is very dynamic and combative sport, with the following requirements of competitors: instant resourcefulness, precision, courage and fast reaction in different situations. It is just for this reason that the training of young fencers involves improvement of all motor abilities focusing on agility, speed, and explosive strength. The aim of this research is to determine gender-related differences of motor abilities in children engaged in fencing. The sample consists of 50 children (26 boys and 24 girls) whose average age is 10.46 years and, who train fencing in the “Omladinac” in Zrenjanin and “Vojvodina” in Novi Sad. Motor abilities are tested by means of four motor tests. Differences are determined using multivariate analysis of variance and univariate analysis of variance. The findings indicate that there is statistically significant difference related to Deep forward bend on the bench and T-test, which is in favor of girls, Long jump test from the standing start in favor of boys, whereas Tapping test does not show any significant difference between boys and girls. Numerous research works show that early maturing girls have better results of motor performance than those with a slower process of maturation (11-13 years), whereas individual differences in terms of motor performance depend on growth and development, especially in boys. Matching of results is related to the observed statistically significant differences in explosive strength in favor of boys and suppleness in favor of girls. 
Contemporary sports product and making a brand
Authors: Popović Stevo
Published: July 2018

The objective of this study represents the sports branding, while the main goal will be directional to explaining the contemporary sports product and making a brand. The main tasks of this study are, the first discussing the sports branding nowadays and newly created sports products as well as drawing attention to the specific nature of the branding of sports products as a separate field of branding in general. During making of this study, the authors used descriptive method with consulting of competent literature. The previous authors’ experience in this field was also so useful. Moreover, the author used the analytic method and parallel method that is the most productive if you make some inferences about some appearance. From the reason sport branding did not develop separately, it is the fact that it represents an integral part of the overall branding procedure; however, sport branding has some specialty in relation to other areas, mostly due to the reason, sport industry has much more unpredictable nature than most of other industries. This study made general retrospection of common characteristics and differences among sports branding and branding in general that might be relevant for many researchers in this area. Sports branding is developing rapidly around the world, the dominant example of this development is most evident in the “sports industry” in the United States. However, the sport branding is not at the expectable level in Montenegro, and working on recognizing Montenegrin contemporary sports product and making a brand must be more prominent nowadays.
Motor performance of young soccer players depending on biological age
Authors: Holienka Miroslav , Babic Matej , Doležajová Ladislava , Šelinger Peter , Musilová Eva
Published: July 2018

The main purpose of our article was to broaden the knowledge of the level of the motor performance of young soccer players in puberty, taking into account their biological age. The object of our research was 18 soccer players in the U 15 category of the soccer club ŠK Slovan Bratislava divided into a subset with accelerated development (n=10) with body height 177,4 ± 5,1 cm, body weight 65,8 ± 7,5 kg and a subset with retarded development (n=8) with body height 170,9 ± 7,3 cm, body weight 63,9 ± 7,7 kg. To assess the motor performance, a set of 3 tests to evaluate speed and speed-coordination (agility) capabilities was applied. The set of tests contained a 10 m run (n=10 - average value of 1.61 s, n=8 - average value of 1.62 s), a 30 m run (n=10 - average value of 4.13 s, n=8 - average value of 4.16 s) and a 5 x 10 m run with a change of direction (n=10 - average value of 11.55 s, n=8 - average value of 11.70 s). Using the Mann-Whitney U test, we did not confirm in our case a statistically significant different level in the motor performance of the monitored sets with regard to the degree of their biological maturity. 
Improving motor fitness in primary school children through a school based intervention
Authors: Blagojević Milica , Obradović Borislav , Radović Zoran , Đukić Ivan , Dimitrić Goran , Jakšić Milorad
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study is to establish the effects of specially programmed circuit training on physical fitness in primary school children. A total of 58 (28 girls) primary school children aged 11-13 (experimental group 12.2±1.2, control group 12.4±1.1) years voluntarily participated in this study. Physical fitness of children is assessed based on motor skills, through the following tests: abdominal muscle endurance - Sit-ups test, upper body strength and muscular endurance - Bent-arm hang test, upper-body muscular endurance - Pushups test, muscular strength and power of the lower limbs - Standing broad jump test, agility and speed - 4x10m test and flexibility - Sit and reach test. During the regular classes of physical education, the experimental group conducted a circular training lasting 15-20 minutes, at the same time control group practiced exercises that were in accordance with the plan and program of teaching physical education for a particular teaching unit. The treatment lasted for 15 weeks, with two classes of physical education per week. The results for the standing broad jump indicated significant differences between groups following 15 weeks. Furthermore, the group that participated in the circuit training program made significantly greater gains compared to the control group (p<0.05) in bent-arm hang, sit-ups and sit and reach. The results for the 4x10m test indicated no significant differences in time, group and their interaction (p≥0.05). To conclude, circuit training appears to be an effective way of improving physical fitness in primary school children. The results of this study indicate that this method was more effective for performance than traditional school program. 
COMPORTAMENTO REPRODUTIVO DAS MULHERES RIBEIRINHAS DO AMANÃ
Authors: Moura Edila Arnaud Ferreira
Published: July 2018

This work presents the results of a study about the reproductive behavior of riverine women living in the Sustainable Development Reserve Amanã, in the Middle Solimões region, state of Amazonas. The study was done in 2001 with the objective of identify aspects of the reproductive behavior of 83 women, collected through reproductive history methodology. These women live in small localities along the rivers and lakes in the middle of the Amazonian forest. The study identified that these women initialize their reproductive period at the age of 17, in average, and the mean age of their last pregnancy occurs at the age of 42, considering those above 50 years old. 36% of these 83 women had lost one or more of their children before the age of five. Only 16% use contraceptives and 12% are sterilized. They dont have access to the basic health assistance in a regular basis and the local midwives are extremely important in their assistance during pregnancy and delivery. This study em phasizes the importance of reproductive health programs including those social and cultural local conditions.
DENSIDADES DE PIRARUCU (Arapaima gigas, TELEOSTEI, OSTEOGLOSSIDAE) EM LAGOS DAS RESERVAS DE DESENVOLVIMENTO SUSTENTÁVEL MAMIRAUÁ E AMANÃ, AMAZONAS, BRASIL
Authors: Arantes Caroline Chaves , Garcez Danielle Sequeira , Castello Leandro
Published: July 2018

At the Sustainable Development Reserves of Mamirauá and Amanã, the pirarucu fishery is co-managed. Local fishermen assess pirarucu populations and, with the help of the Mamirauá Institute and state government, use this information to establish fishing quotas. Surveys are possible by counts of individual coming to the surface to breath air. This study reports preliminary findings of pirarucu population densities in the areas within the reserves based on the time series built in the last years and on satellite im agery of the managed area. The populations of the pirarucu increased in most managed areas. The increase rates for each managed area relative to the last year for which data are available are: Jarauá (562.881 km 2) 525%, Tijuaca (248.293 km 2) 169%, M araã/Lago Preto (18.53 km ²) 1039%, and Coraci (410.340 km 2) 20%. The data suggests that the management for conservation of pirarucus within the reserve is effective. In part, that is so due to the fact that the management is participatory and carried out in an adaptive strategy.
PERÍODO DE DESOVA E SUCESSO REPRODUTIVO DO TRACAJÁ Podocnemis unifilis TROSCHEL 1848 (TESTUDINES: PODOCNEMIDIDAE) NA VÁRZEA DA RDSM  MÉDIO SOLIMÕES, BRASIL
Authors: Terán Augusto Fachín , Mülhen Eduardo Matheus Von
Published: July 2018

In this study the nesting biology of Podocnem is unifilis was investigated from July to November 1998 at the Mamirauá Sustainable Development Reserve, located in the Solimões river, near Tefé, Amazonas, Brazil. Podocnemis unifilis nested in August and September, with the hatching event occurring in October and November. Nests were excavated in clay soils (67.5%), sand (25%), and leaf litter (7.5%). Hatching success was highest in the sand beach nests and lowest in the clay banks nests. Humans and the tegu lizard (Tupinambis) were the main egg predators. This turtle population can recover only by the protection of nesting beaches, educational programs for the in habitants of the Reserve, participation of the community in the conservation and management program , and permanent guarding of the nesting beaches by Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e Dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis-IBAMA authorities.
ACERVO ETNOGRÁFICO: ASPECTOS DA CULTURA MATERIAL DAS COMUNIDADES RIBEIRINHAS DAS RESERVAS MAMIRAUÁ E AMANÃ
Authors: Sousa Marília de Jesus Silva e , Domingues-Lopes Rita de Cássia
Published: July 2018

The ethnographical collection of Mamirauá Sustainable Development Institute under the responsibility of the Handcraft Program and formed by an assortment of artifacts and handcrafts from the Medium Solimões River region coming from the communities living inside Mamirauá and Amanã Sustainable Development Reserves and neighboring municipalities. The creation of this collection is relevant because the artifacts and handcrafts collect are identity marks of its producers, their regions, and are also used by the craftsmen themselves as reference in their assessments which aim to detect changes occurred in the objects after a certain period of time, specially in the processing of raw material and the comparison with new models relative to size and the different weaving types. The collection consists of 300 pieces organized as follow: pottery, weavers, strings, fabrics, wood implements and other materials. The objectives of this paper are:(i) Discuss the importance of the formation of an Ethnographical Collection in the Medium Solimões River; (ii) Present the methodology used to form and organize the assortment which integrates the collection; and (iii) Present the results of the work developed until now inside the Technical Reserve.
Changing Concept in the Management of Ectopic Pregnancy - A Case Report
Authors: Rahman Sumana
Published: July 2018

Ectopic pregnancy remains the great puzzle of gynaecology, no other pelvic condition gives rise to more diagnostic error like this condition. In the last 20 years, the management of ectopic pregnancy has evolved from a radical operative procedure to a more conservative approach. This case report describes a woman who experienced tubal ectopic pregnancy twice, with two different methods of management. In the first time she had left sided ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy which was managed by laparoscopic left sided salphingectomy. In the next time, her right tube was involved with ectopic pregnancy. This time, she was decided to be managed by conservative medical treatment. The patient was treated with a single dose of injection methotrexate 50 mg intramuscularly. She was monitored closely at 4-5 days interval. At the 19th day, she was found to have complete resolution of the ectopic sac.J Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll, December 2016, Vol.8(2); 73-75
Health Issues in Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh:
Authors: Ahmed Nadim , Rahman Mustafizur
Published: July 2018

Abstract not availableJ Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll, June 2017, Vol.9(1); 1-2
Ethics in Medical Practice
Authors: Rahman Md Mustafizur , Alam ABM Muksudul
Published: July 2018

Abstract not availableJ Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll, December 2017, Vol.9(2); 41-42
Comparison of Complications between Total and Subtotal Thyroidectomy in Simple Multinodular Goitre
Authors: Ahmed Nadim , Ahmad Sami , Ahmed Farhad Uddin , Hossain Muhammad Anwar , Saha Krishna Pada , Bin Aziz Nur Mohammod Sayed , Hassan Mohammad Rashedul
Published: July 2018

Background: Multinodular goitre is one of the most common endocrine surgical problems. Because controversy still continues to surround the use of total thyroidectomy for management of simple nodular goitre, the present study was conducted to compare the complications between total and subtotal thyroidectomy for management of simple multinodular goitre.Materials & methods: The experimental study was conducted in the department of Surgery and ENT, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital over a period of 2 years from July 2011 to June 2013. Of the total 83 simple multinodular goitre patients – 38 were assigned to total and 45 to subtotal thyroidectomy groups. Student’s t-test was done to analyze the means of quantitative variables & Chi-square (X2) and Fisher Exact test was applied to analyze categorical variables.Results: Most (88.9%) of patients in subtotal thyroidectomy (STT) group and 86.8% in total thyroidectomy (TT) group did not receive any blood transfusion during operation. Only 1(2.2%) patient in STT group experienced significant intraoperative haemorrhage. All patients were successfully operated. However, few patients of either group experienced some complications. Tetany was developed in 7.89% patients of TT and 4.44% patients of STT group. The other complication was recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy (5.3% in TT and 2.2% in STT groups). No case of postoperative haemorrhage (haematoma) or wound infection was occured in either group. In TT group 5 (13.16%) patients and in STT group 4 (8.89%) patients developed different complications with no significant difference between the groups (p=0.533). The mean postoperative hospital stay was higher in TT group than In STT group (6.21 ± 0.99 vs. 5.96 ± 0.79 days), though the difference is not statistically significant (p= 0.206).Conclusions: The study shows that total thyroidectomy can be performed without increasing risk of complications and is a better alternative to subtotal thyroidectomy for the treatment of simple multinodular goitre.J Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll, December 2017, Vol.9(2); 55-59
Whistleblowing from an International Perspective: A Comparative Analysis of Institutional Arrangements
Authors: Loyens Kim , Vandekerckhove Wim
Published: July 2018

While there appears to be consensus amongst policy makers that legislation to protect whistleblowers is needed, the emerging policy question addresses what institutional framework is most fit to implement whistleblowing legislation. However, the institutions to whom whistleblowers report—which are in the literature addressed as internal or external recipients of whistleblowing concerns—have been given limited scholarly attention. Research has instead focused on motives, behaviour, and experiences of whistleblowers on the one hand, and whistleblowing legislation on the other. Particularly the role of external agencies, like ombudsmen, anti-corruption agencies, and Inspector General offices, in dealing with whistleblowing concerns has been under-studied. With the aim of starting to fill this research gap, this paper reports the findings of a comparative study of governmental whistleblowing agencies (other than courts) and non-governmental whistleblowing protection organizations (NGOs), as important examples of external recipients of whistleblowing concerns, in 11 countries with whistleblowing legislation. The study aimed to find similarities and differences between these agencies, and to identify challenges and dilemmas that the installation of whistleblowing agencies bring about. Data collection was done by means of 21 interviews with academic experts and high-ranking officials within the selected countries, and in-depth analysis of available (policy) documents and reports. This paper finds that in the studied countries, there is a trend to install governmental whistleblowing agencies that combine various tasks to implement whistleblowing legislation (e.g., advice, psychosocial care, investigation of wrongdoing or retaliation, and prevention of wrongdoing). When such agencies are absent or considered weak, NGOs may step in to fill the need. Whereas most governmental whistleblowing agencies have investigative tasks, in Belgium and in the Netherlands, investigations of wrongdoing and retaliation are done within the same department for the reason that these issues cannot be easily separated. Other agencies have separated these tasks to avoid conflict of interest or because different expertise is claimed to be needed for both. Further research is needed to analyze the effects of each institutional approach, and how to avoid conflict of interest, particularly the risk of partial investigations of wrongdoing. Our study also shows that while not many countries provide government funds for specific psychosocial care for whistleblowers, most governmental whistleblowing agencies do give advice to whistleblowers and invest in the prevention of wrongdoing or training of those who implement whistleblowing legislation. While providing important insights into the role of whistleblowing agencies in 11 countries, this study also develops questions for further research.
Pan-European Analysis on Power System Flexibility
Authors: Poncela Marta , Purvins Arturs , Chondrogiannis Stamatios
Published: July 2018

Ongoing deployments of intermittent non-synchronous power generators (i.e., wind turbines and photovoltaics) challenge power (electricity) system security in terms of matching power generation and demand. Higher flexibility in the future generation fleet and power demand are likely to play an essential role in maintaining secure operation of the power system. This paper proposes a stepwise methodology based on a set of indicators for future power system flexibility analysis through assessing (i) flexibility requirements, (ii) available flexibility resources, and (iii) power system adequacy. The proposed methodology is applied to a European case for 2020 and 2025 scenarios. The insights gained from this study can be used as input in distributing power balancing resources and to introduce new balancing products in a power market. Benefits of the integrated energy market are presented.
Numerical Simulation of Water Transport in a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Flow Channel
Authors: Shen Jun , Liu Zhichun , Liu Fan , Liu Wei
Published: July 2018

Water management of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is crucial to maintain high performance and stable operation. The flow channel is an indispensable part of PEMFCs, which allows the reactant gases to flow into the system, and the liquid water to be removed from the fuel cells. A transient 3D model based on volume of fluid methodology is used to study the dynamic characteristics of gas-liquid two-phase flow in a PEMFC flow channel. The structure of the flow channel, the wettability of channel surfaces, the air inlet velocity, the dimensions of the water droplets, and the effect of phase transition are considered to obtain the optimal solution. The results show that the water droplet transport process is seriously affected by the wettability of the channel surfaces. A modified surface design with varied static surface contact angle could perform the detachment without external force with an appropriate initial velocity. Besides, phase transitions could seriously influence the form and the distribution of water existing in the channel.
Effect of Freshwater Washing Pretreatment on Sargassum muticum as a Feedstock for Biogas Production
Authors: Milledge John J. , Nielsen Birthe V. , Sadek Manar S. , Harvey Patricia J.
Published: July 2018

The pretreatment of seaweed by washing in freshwater is often used in seaweed biofuel research studies. However, the effect of washing seaweed prior to anaerobic digestion (AD) does not appear to have been greatly studied. This study examines washing Sargassum muticum with freshwater and its effect on ultimate and proximate analyses, salt content, methane production from anaerobic digestion, and leachate loss from ensiling. Washing with freshwater significantly (p < 0.01) increased moisture content (unwashed 85.6%, washed 89.1%) but significantly (p < 0.05) reduced ash (unwashed 32.7% dry weight dw, washed 30.6% dw) and salt content (unwashed ash containing 51.5%, washed 42.5%). The dry biomass higher heating value was significantly (p < 0.05) increased by washing due to the lower ash content (11.5 to 12.6 kJ g−1 dw). There was no significant change in the protein or lipid content, although washing increased the nitrogen content (3.85–4.77% dw). Washing significantly (p < 0.05) increased leachate losses during ensiling, with total leachate losses increasing after washing (12.7–25.2%). The methane yield from anaerobic digestion (28 days) was not statistically significantly different (p > 0.05) between unwashed (0.225 L CH4 g−1 VS) and washed samples (0.177 L CH4 g−1 VS). However, washing delayed biomethane production.
A Robust Day-Ahead Electricity Market Clearing Model Considering Wind Power Penetration
Authors: Li Hongze , Wang Xuejie , Li Fengyun , Wang Yuwei , Yu Xinhua
Published: July 2018

With the development and grid-connection of renewable energy sources such as wind power, there are more and more uncertainties in power systems, and large-scale wind power has brought many challenges to the security and stability the systems. These uncertainties have to be eliminated by means of upward or downward regulations of conventional generators and charging/discharging services of energy storage devices. Based on the analysis of the influence of wind power uncertainties on the day-ahead electricity market, this article proposes a robust clearing model for the day-ahead electricity market considering the wind power penetration, which can help to complete the dispatch of power system. Compared with the traditional models, the proposed model is a multi-objective model, which considers both the lowest operating cost and the least wind power curtailment of power system. Moreover, the obtained dual multipliers λ corresponding to the power balance constraints reflect the marginal cost of the power production in a certain period, that is, the locational marginal price (LMP), which can be used as the clearing prices. This robust market clearing model takes into consideration the economic and reliability of the system operation and accommodates as much renewable energy as possible. The simulation of three wind power producers was implemented on the IEEE 30-bus test system, which verified the rationality of the proposed approaches.
The Short-Term Effects of Experimental Forestry Treatments on Site Conditions in an Oak–Hornbeam Forest
Authors: Kovács Bence , Tinya Flóra , Guba Erika , Németh Csaba , Sass Vivien , Bidló András , Ódor Péter
Published: July 2018

Forest management alters forest site; however, information is still limited about how different silvicultural treatments modify abiotic conditions. We compared the effects of four treatments from three different forestry systems on forest microclimate, litter, and soil conditions. The clear-cutting, retention tree group, preparation cutting, and gap-cutting treatments were experimentally established in a European oak-dominated forest, following a complete block design with six replicates. In this study, we show the results of the quantitative analyses of 21 variables, one year after the interventions. Strong treatment effects were observed for the microclimate and litter variables, whereas the soil characteristics remained similar. The increase in light was the highest in the clear-cuts with intermediate effects in the gap-cuts. The means and variances of the air and soil temperature as well as the vapor pressure deficit were the highest for the clear-cutting treatment. An increase in soil moisture, litter pH, and litter moisture was significant in the gap-cuts and, to a smaller extent, in the clear-cuts. The soil pH increased in the retention tree groups. Microclimatic differences between the treatments were the largest during the summer, which demonstrates the buffering effect of the canopy. Our study confirms that less intensive and more spatially heterogeneous silvicultural treatments (e.g., gap-cutting) preserve a stable below-canopy microclimate more effectively. These results can support and might be useful for both forest management and conservation planning.
Association of Infant Eczema with Childhood and Adult Asthma: Analysis of Data from the 1958 Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Abo-Zaid Ghada , Sharpe Richard A. , Fleming Lora E. , Depledge Michael , Osborne Nicholas J.
Published: July 2018

The influence of early life exposures on later life disease has for some time provided clues to modifiable risk factors of disease. The “atopic march” is thought to play a role in the progression of allergic diseases and may offer an opportunity to lower asthma’s health and socioeconomic burden, although evidence remains controversial. We aimed to examine the relationship between early life eczema and asthma later in life. Using the National Child Development Study, we examined infant eczema and childhood and adult asthma. Data related to asthma or wheezing bronchitis were available for 13,503 (73%; 95% CI 72–74), 11,503 (61%; 95% CI 60–61), 12,524 (68%; 95% CI 67–69), 11,194 (60%; 95% CI 60–60), 9377 (51%; 95% CI 51–51), and 9760 (53%; 95% CI 52–53) subjects at ages 11, 16, 23, 33, 44, and 50 years, respectively. Logistic regression models were fitted to examine each wave separately before and after adjusting for a range of potential confounders. Generalised estimating equation (GEE) methods were undertaken to examine the associations after pooling all data from questionnaires. The prevalence of self-reported asthma in those that had previously reported infant eczema ranged from 1.0%; 95% CI 0.9–1.4 (age 44 years) to 2.2%; 95% CI 2.1–2.3 (age 33 years). Participants with infant eczema had a 2–3-fold increased risk of reporting asthma in childhood and adulthood; this was 1.6 times at age 44 years when using spirometry measures. Similar effect sizes were observed in the GEE models when considering all participants (OR 2.9; 95% CI 2.6–3.2). Childhood and adult asthma were consistently associated with infant eczema both by using the self-reported data and lung measures.
Urinary Inorganic Arsenic Concentration and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Pregnant Women from Arica, Chile
Authors: Muñoz María Pía , Valdés Macarena , Muñoz-Quezada María Teresa , Lucero Boris , Rubilar Paola , Pino Paulina , Iglesias Verónica
Published: July 2018

Introduction: The association of total arsenic exposure with impaired glucose tolerance and gestational diabetes has been shown; however, evidence regarding urinary inorganic arsenic in pregnant women is still limited. Our aim was to evaluate the association between urinary inorganic arsenic concentration and gestational diabetes among pregnant women living in Arica, Chile. Methods: Cross-sectional study of pregnant women receiving care at primary health centers in urban Arica. The exposure was urinary inorganic arsenic concentration, while gestational diabetes was the outcome. The association was evaluated using multiple logistic regression models adjusted by age, education level, ethnicity, and pre-pregnancy body mass index. Results: 244 pregnant women were surveyed. The median urinary inorganic arsenic was 14.95 μg/L, and the prevalence of gestational diabetes was 8.6%. After adjusting, we did not find a significant association between gestational diabetes and inorganic arsenic exposure tertiles (Odds ratio (OR) 2.98, 95% CI = 0.87–10.18), (OR 1.07, 95% CI = 0.26–4.33). Conclusion: This study did not provide evidence on the relationship between urinary inorganic arsenic concentration and gestational diabetes. Further research is needed to elucidate the factors underlying this association.
Associations of Family Demands and Work–Life Conflict with Musculoskeletal Disorders among Korean Workers
Authors: Kim Young-Mee , Cho Sung-il
Published: July 2018

Although family-related demands play a role in the effect of psychosocial work characteristics on health, research on work-related health has neglected the family domain. The aim of the present study was to identify the effects of family demands and work–life conflict (WLC) on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among Korean workers. We analyzed data from the nationally representative Korean Working Conditions Survey conducted with 50,007 workers in 2014. Logistic regression analyses stratified by gender were performed to identify gender differences, and interaction terms including WLCs and key covariates were also incorporated. Childcare demands (odds ratio (OR), 1.16) were related to MSD only in male workers, whereas homemaking (OR, 1.09) and eldercare (OR, 1.26) demands were related to MSDs only in female workers. WLC was also associated with MSDs among both male (OR, 1.50) and female (OR, 1.55) workers. We found no gender difference in the effect of WLC on MSDs (p = 0.91). Moreover, childcare demands may exacerbate the effect of WLC on MSDs. Our data suggest that family demands and WLC could be important targets of workplace interventions to prevent MSDs, and future research should evaluate the role of family demands and WLC as stressors in the workplace.
Highly Efficient and Sustainable Spent Mushroom Waste Adsorbent Based on Surfactant Modification for the Removal of Toxic Dyes
Authors: Alhujaily Ahmad , Yu Hongbo , Zhang Xiaoyu , Ma Fuying
Published: July 2018

The treatment of wastewater always demands eco-friendly and cost-efficient adsorbents. In this paper, spent mushroom waste (SMW) was modified by a cationic surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTAB) to eliminate toxic dyes. A characterization of adsorbents confirmed that CTAB was successfully embedded into the SMW structure. The spent mushroom waste, modified by CTAB (SMWC), exhibited an excellent adsorption capacity of 249.57 mg·g−1, 338.67 mg·g−1, and 265.01 mg·g−1 for the Direct red 5B (DR5B), Direct blue 71 (DB71), and Reactive black (RB5) dyes, respectively. Batch experiments indicated that the dye adsorption of SMWC depended mainly on pH, dye concentration, temperature, and ionic strength. The adsorption isotherm could be fitted to the Langmuir model and described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The dye adsorption mechanism was dominated mostly by the chemosorption of the dyes and the SMWC surface. Thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption was endothermic and spontaneous. SMWC could successfully remove over 90% of dyes from various water samples. This can be considered a feasible waste resource utility, since it meets both the ecological and the economic requirements for auspicious industrial applications.
The Perturbation of Pulmonary Surfactant by Bacterial Lipopolysaccharide and Its Reversal by Polymyxin B: Function and Structure
Authors: Kolomaznik Maros , Liskayova Gilda , Kanjakova Nina , Hubcik Lukas , Uhrikova Daniela , Calkovska Andrea
Published: July 2018

After inhalation, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) molecules interfere with a pulmonary surfactant, a unique mixture of phospholipids (PLs) and specific proteins that decreases surface tension at the air–liquid interphase. We evaluated the behaviour of a clinically used modified porcine pulmonary surfactant (PSUR) in the presence of LPS in a dynamic system mimicking the respiratory cycle. Polymyxin B (PxB), a cyclic amphipathic antibiotic, is able to bind to LPS and to PSUR membranes. We investigated the effect of PxB on the surface properties of the PSUR/LPS system. Particular attention was paid to mechanisms underlying the structural changes in surface-reducing features. The function and structure of the porcine surfactant mixed with LPS and PxB were tested with a pulsating bubble surfactometer, optical microscopy, and small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS). Only 1% LPS (w/w to surfactant PLs) prevented the PSUR from reaching the necessary low surface tension during area compression. LPS bound to the lipid bilayer of PSUR and disturbed its lamellar structure by swelling. The structural changes were attributed to the surface charge unbalance of the lipid bilayers due to LPS insertion. PxB acts as an inhibitor of structural disarrangement induced by LPS and restores original lamellar packing, as detected by polarised light microscopy and SAXS.
Targeting the NLRP3 Inflammasome-Related Pathways via Tianeptine Treatment-Suppressed Microglia Polarization to the M1 Phenotype in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Cultures
Authors: Ślusarczyk Joanna , Trojan Ewa , Głombik Katarzyna , Piotrowska Anna , Budziszewska Bogusława , Kubera Marta , Popiołek-Barczyk Katarzyna , Lasoń Władysław , Mika Joanna , Basta-Kaim Agnieszka
Published: July 2018

An increasing body of evidence postulates that microglia are the main mediators of inflammation-related disorders, including depression. Since activated microglia produce a wide range of pro- and anti-inflammatory factors, the modulation of M1/M2 microglial polarization by antidepressants may be crucial in the treatment of depression. The current paper aimed to investigate the impact of tianeptine on the microglia’s viability/death parameters, and on M1/M2 microglial activation in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms via which tianeptine affected the LPS-evoked changes were investigated. The results revealed that tianeptine had partially protective effects on the changes in microglia viability/death evoked by LPS. Tianeptine attenuated microglia activation by decreasing the expression of cluster of differentiation 40 (CD40), and major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) markers, as well as the release of pro-inflammatory factors: interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and chemokine CC motif ligand 2 (CCL2), and the production of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species. In contrast, we did not observe an impact of tianeptine on M2 microglia measured by IL-4, IL-10, TGF-β, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) expression. Moreover, we demonstrated an inhibitory effect of tianeptine on the LPS-induced activation of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like (NOD-like) receptor pyrin-containing 3 inflammasome (NLRP3) inflammasome subunits, NLRP3 and caspase-1, as well as the ability of tianeptine to reduce Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) levels, as well as the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-related kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Collectively, we demonstrated that tianeptine has protective properties and inhibits M1 polarization, thus attenuating the production of inflammatory mediators. Moreover, we found that M1 microglia suppression may be related to the NLRP3 inflammasome and TLR4 signaling. These findings suggest that a better understanding of the multifaceted mechanisms of tianeptine action on microglia may increase the effectiveness of therapy, where inflammation is a central hallmark.
Mechanical Properties and Carbonation Durability of Engineered Cementitious Composites Reinforced by Polypropylene and Hydrophilic Polyvinyl Alcohol Fibers
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yin Chenglong , Ma Fuquan , Huang Zhiyi
Published: July 2018

Herein, the mechanical properties and carbonation durability of engineered cementitious composites (ECC) were studied. For the cost-efficient utilization of ECC materials, different types of specimens were cast with polypropylene (PP) and hydrophilic polyvinyl alcohol (HPVA) fibers. The compressive strength, Poisson’s ratio, strength-deflection curves, cracking/post-cracking strength, impact index, and tensile strain-stress curves of two types of ECC materials, with differing fiber contents of 0 vol %, 1 vol %, 1.5 vol %, and 2 vol %, were investigated with the use of compressive tests, four-point bending tests, drop-weight tests, and uniaxial tensile tests. In addition, the matrix microstructure and failure morphology of the fiber in the ECC materials were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Furthermore, carbonation tests and characterization of steel corrosion after carbonization were employed to study durability resistance. The results indicated that for both PP fiber- and HPVA fiber-reinforced ECCs, the compressive strength first increases and then decreases as fiber content increases from 0 vol % to 2 vol %, reaching a maximum at 1 vol % fiber content. The bending strength, deformation capacity, and impact resistance show significant improvement with increasing fiber content. The ECC material reinforced with 2 vol % PP fiber shows superior carbonized durability with a maximum carbonation depth of only 0.8 mm.
Health-related quality-of-life assessment in patients with low back pain using SF-36 questionnaire
Authors: Vereščiagina Kotryna , Ambrozaitis Kazys , Špakauskas Bronius
Published: July 2018

Objective. For complete assessment of benefits of the surgical intervention, it is essential to provide evidence of the impact on patients in terms of health status and healthrelated quality of life. In the present study, the preoperative 36-item Short Form (SF-36) Health Survey scores were determined in patients before lumbar microdiscectomy due to better preoperative screening likewise in the control group – almost healthy population taken into account any habitual ailments experienced in an appropriate age. Patients and methods. In the present study, we investigated a cohort of 100 patients with disc herniation causing low back pain and another hundred of the control subjects, matched by age and gender. The short form 36 general health questionnaire (SF-36) was applied. Results. Estimation of the SF-36 scores showed that (1) all of the domain values were considerably lower in the preoperative patient group than in the second one (P<0.01); (2) the bodily pain scores were closely correlated to the social function scores (R=0.7, P<0.01), whereas the physical function was less related to the bodily pain (R=0.6, P<0.01). The weakest correlation was observed between bodily pain and mental health and general health (R=0.4, P<0.01). Conclusion. The present study showed that the generic instrument, SF-36 Health Survey, was optimized paraclinical method for patients predisposed to surgical treatment of the lumbar disc herniation disease likewise for normal population individuals, matched by age and sex, in the assessment of health-related quality of life.
Severe open-globe eye injuries: socio-demographic aspects and risk factors
Authors: Puodžiuvienė Edita , Paunksnis Alvydas
Published: July 2018

The aim of study. To evaluate sociodemographic aspects and risk factors of severe open-globe ocular injuries. Material and methods. We present data from prospective study of 315 patients with severe open-globe ocular injuries, meeting inclusion criteria. Results. The patients in our series were predominantly male (92.70%). The male to female ratio was 12.7:1. Almost 27% of the patients were from the age group of 30–39 years. Home (53.65%), streets and highways (19.05%) were the most common place of injury, followed by industrial premises (11.11%), agricultural activities (8.25%), recreation and sports (5.40%); 15.56% of cases were work-related. Sharp objects (43.17%) and hammering on metal (24.44%) were the two major causes of injury. Alcohol intoxication was observed in 13.65% of cases. Severe open-globe eye injuries were classified into four categories: penetrating injuries (56.83%), perforating injuries (2.54%), globe ruptures (12.38 %), and IOFB injuries (28.25%). Males suffered significantly more often than females in the age of 20–29 (OR=1.39±95% CI 1.10–1.75, P<0.01) and 30–39-year (OR=1.75±95% PI 1.45–2.22, P<0.01). Risk factors of severe open-globe eye injuries for male gender were living in urban setting (P=0.001), alcohol use (P=0.001), occupation – unemployed (P=0.001) and retired persons (P=0.011). Conclusions. Risk factors for male gender to sustain severe open-globe eye injury were living in urban setting, alcohol use, and occupation (unemployed and retired persons).
Dietary patterns and their association with sociodemographic factors in Lithuanian adult population
Authors: Kriaučionienė Vilma , Petkevičienė Janina , Klumbienė Jūratė
Published: July 2018

The aim of the study was to determine the association between dietary patterns and sociodemographic factors using the data of Lithuanian health behavior monitoring. Material and methods. In 1998–2004, four cross-sectional surveys were carried out within the FINBALT HEALTH MONITOR project. For every survey, a random sample of 3000 Lithuanians aged 20–64 years was taken from the National Population Register by mailed questionnaires. The response rates varied from 61.7% to 74.4%. Factor analysis was employed in order to reduce the number of food items. Four main factors were defined: “light food,” “sweets,” “heavy food,” and “cereals” factors. The associations between dietary patterns and sociodemographic factors were examined by applying a logistic regression analysis. Results. Four major factors accounted for 45.9% of the total variance in food intake in men and 46.5% in women. The “sweets” factor was inversely associated with age both in men and women. A strong positive association was found between age and the “cereals” factor. Men and women with a higher level of education were more likely to follow “light food” and “sweets” pattern and less likely “heavy food” if compared with people with a lower level of education. The odds of consuming “light food” were higher in cities than in rural areas. Married men and women were more likely to follow “heavy food” pattern compared to unmarried. Conclusion. This study identified four main dietary patterns in Lithuanian population. Dietary patterns of people with a higher level of education and inhabitants of cities are closer to the recommendations on healthy nutrition.
Discovery of Matrinic Thiadiazole Derivatives as a Novel Family of Anti-Liver Fibrosis Agents via Repression of the TGFβ/Smad Pathway
Authors: Niu Tianyu , Niu Weixiao , Bao Yunyang , Liu Ting , Song Danqing , Li Yinghong , He Hongwei
Published: July 2018

A series of novel matrinic thiadiazole derivatives were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their inhibitory effect on COL1A1 promotor. The SAR indicated that: (i) the introduction of a thiadiazole on the 11-side chain was beneficial for activity; (ii) a 12-N-benzyl moiety was favorable for activity. Among them, compound 6n displayed a high activity with an inhibitory rate of 39.7% at a concentration of 40 μM. It also effectively inhibited the expression of two representative collagen proteins (COL1A1 and α-SMA) on both the mRNA and protein levels and showed a high safety profile in vivo, indicating its great promise as an anti-liver fibrosis agent. Further study indicated that it might repress hepatic fibrogenesis via the TGFβ/Smad pathway. This study provided powerful information for further strategic optimization and the top compound 6n was selected for further study as an ideal liver fibrosis lead for next investigation.
Acid Assisted Organosolv Delignification of Beechwood and Pulp Conversion towards High Concentrated Cellulosic Ethanol via High Gravity Enzymatic Hydrolysis and Fermentation
Authors: Kalogiannis Konstantinos G. , Matsakas Leonidas , Aspden James , Lappas Angelos A. , Rova Ulrika , Christakopoulos Paul
Published: July 2018

Background: Future biorefineries will focus on converting low value waste streams to chemical products that are derived from petroleum or refined sugars. Feedstock pretreatment in a simple, cost effective, agnostic manner is a major challenge. Methods: In this work, beechwood sawdust was delignified via an organosolv process, assisted by homogeneous inorganic acid catalysis. Mixtures of water and several organic solvents were evaluated for their performance. Specifically, ethanol (EtOH), acetone (AC), and methyl- isobutyl- ketone (MIBK) were tested with or without the use of homogeneous acid catalysis employing sulfuric, phosphoric, and oxalic acids under relatively mild temperature of 175 °C for one hour. Results: Delignification degrees (DD) higher than 90% were achieved, where both AC and EtOH proved to be suitable solvents for this process. Both oxalic and especially phosphoric acid proved to be good alternative catalysts for replacing sulfuric acid. High gravity simultaneous saccharification and fermentation with an enzyme loading of 8.4 mg/gsolids at 20 wt.% initial solids content reached an ethanol yield of 8.0 w/v%. Conclusions: Efficient delignification combining common volatile solvents and mild acid catalysis allowed for the production of ethanol at high concentration in an efficient manner.