bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field Study of Mass Balance, and Hydrology of the West Khangri Nup Glacier (Khumbu, Everest)
Authors: Bocchiola Daniele , Bombelli Giovanni Martino , Camin Federica , Ossi Paolo Maria
Published: February 2020

The depiction of glaciers’ dynamics in the high altitudes of Himalaya and the hydrological fluxes therein is often limited. Although sparse seasonal (snow/ice) melt data may be available, dense precipitation networks are not available everywhere, and especially in the highest area, and the assessment of accumulation processes and mass balance may be difficult. Hydrological fluxes are little measured in the high altitudes, and few studies are available covering flow modeling and flow partitioning. Here, we investigate the snow accumulation, ice melt, and mass balance of West Khangri Nup (WKN) glacier (0.23 km2, mean altitude 5494 m asl), which is a part of the Khumbu glacier in the Everest region, where information of precipitation and hydro-glaciological dynamics in the highest altitudes was made available recently in fulfillment of several research projects. Weather, glaciological, snow pits, hydrologic, and isotopic data gathered during field campaigns (2010–2014) on the glacier and at the EVK2CNR Pyramid site were used to (i) set up the Poli-Hydro glacio-hydrological model to describe ice and snow melt and hydrological flows from the glacier, and (ii) investigate seasonal snow dynamics on this high region of the glacier. Coupling ice ablation data and Poli-Hydro simulation for ca. 5 years (January 2010–June 2014), we estimate that the WKN depleted ca. −10.46 m of ice water equivalent per year m IWE year−1 (i.e., annually ca. −2.32 meter of water equivalent per year m WE year−1). Then, using snowpack density and isotopic (δ18O) profiles on the WKN, we demonstrate that the local snowpack is recent (Fall–Winter 2013–2014) and that significant snow accumulation did not occur recently, so this area has not been a significant one of accumulation recently. Analysis of recent snow cover from LANDSAT images also confirms snow dynamics as depicted. Our study presents original data and results, and it complements present studies covering glaciers’ mass balance as well as an investigation of accumulation zones in the Everest region and the Himalayas, which is also potentially helpful in the assessment of future dynamics under ongoing climate change.
Validation of the AROME, ALADIN and WRF Meteorological Models for Flood Forecasting in Morocco
Authors: El Khalki El Mahdi , Tramblay Yves , Amengual Arnau , Homar Victor , Romero Romualdo , Saidi Mohamed El Mehdi , Alaouri Meriem
Published: February 2020

Flash floods are common in small Mediterranean watersheds and the alerts provided by real-time monitoring systems provide too short anticipation times to warn the population. In this context, there is a strong need to develop flood forecasting systems in particular for developing countries such as Morocco where floods have severe socio-economic impacts. In this study, the AROME (Application of Research to Operations at Mesoscale), ALADIN (Aire Limited Dynamic Adaptation International Development) and WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting) meteorological models are evaluated to forecast flood events in the Rheraya and Ourika basin located in the High-Atlas Mountains of Morocco. The model evaluation is performed by comparing for a set of flood events the observed and simulated probabilities of exceedances for different precipitation thresholds. In addition, two different flood forecasting approaches are compared: the first one relies on the coupling of meteorological forecasts with a hydrological model and the second one is a based on a linear relationship between event rainfall, antecedent soil moisture and runoff. Three different soil moisture products (in-situ measurements, European Space Agency’s Climate Change Initiative ESA-CCI remote sensing data and ERA5 reanalysis) are compared to estimate the initial soil moisture conditions before flood events for both methods. Results showed that the WRF and AROME models better simulate precipitation amounts compared to ALADIN, indicating the added value of convection-permitting models. The regression-based flood forecasting method outperforms the hydrological model-based approach, and the maximum discharge is better reproduced when using the WRF forecasts in combination with ERA5. These results provide insights to implement robust flood forecasting approaches in the context of data scarcity that could be valuable for developing countries such as Morocco and other North African countries.
The Migration Law of Iron during the Process of Water Icing
Authors: Tang Yuanqing , Zhang Yan , Zhao Wanli , Liu Tongshuai , Liu Yucan
Published: February 2020

In this study, we utilized simulated icing experiments to investigate the effect of icing thickness, freezing temperature and initial concentration on the migration of iron in the ice–water system during water icing. The distribution coefficient “K” (the ratio of the average concentration of iron in the ice to that in the under-ice water) was used to describe the effect. The results indicated that iron partitioned stronger to under-ice water than to ice during the process of water icing, resulting in the concentration of iron in ice–water system before and after freezing being expressed as: ice < pre-freezing water < under-ice water. K decreased with the increase in icing thickness, freezing temperature and initial concentration. The temperature change in the solution will change the solubility of the solvent, so we explained the migration of iron during the process of water icing from the perspective of solid–liquid equilibrium theory. Too high or too low iron concentration may inhibit the growth of algae, thus affecting the underwater ecological environment. We expect that our study will arouse researcher’s attention to the change in iron concentration in shallow lakes and ponds at high latitudes during the icebound period.
The Meanings of Water: Socio-Cultural Perceptions of Solar Disinfected (SODIS) Drinking Water in Bolivia and Implications for its Uptake
Authors: Nuño Martínez Néstor , Muela Ribera Joan , Hausmann-Muela Susanna , Cevallos Myriam , Hartinger Stella María , Christen Andri , Mäusezahl Daniel
Published: February 2020

Solar disinfection (SODIS) of drinking water is a cost-effective household water treatment (HWT) method. Despite its simplicity of use, evidence suggest that SODIS water uptake remains lower than implementers planned. In this paper, we investigate socio-cultural factors associated with SODIS water uptake in rural Andean Bolivia. We conducted 28 semi-structured in-depth interviews and six focus group discussions within the framework of a community randomised trial to assess the uptake of SODIS water in the Bolivian Andes. Participants argued that SODIS does not produce an attractive type of drinking water despite acknowledging that SODIS represents a simple, safe, low-cost, and easy method of preparing safe drinking water. Attitudes towards SODIS water reflected local interpretations of water, health, and illness. The taste of SODIS water, the invisibility of water-borne pathogens, and habituation to untreated water represented the main barriers to SODIS water uptake. Alternative culturally adapted SODIS promotional campaigns (e.g., using herbs and additives to improve SODIS water taste) can increase its perceived desirability.
Performance of Field-Scale Phosphorus Removal Structures Utilizing Steel Slag for Treatment of Subsurface Drainage
Authors: Penn Chad , Livingston Stan , Shedekar Vinayak , King Kevin , Williams Mark
Published: February 2020

Reducing dissolved phosphorus (P) losses from legacy P soils to surface waters is necessary for preventing algal blooms. Phosphorus removal structures containing steel slag have shown success in treating surface runoff for dissolved P, but little is known about treating subsurface (tile) drainage. A ditch-style and subsurface P removal structure were constructed using steel slag in a bottom-up flow design for treating tile drainage. Nearly 97% of P was delivered during precipitation-induced flow events (as opposed to baseflow) with inflow P concentrations increasing with flow rate. Structures handled flow rates approximately 12 L s−1, and the subsurface and ditch structures removed 19.2 (55%) and 0.9 kg (37%) of the cumulative dissolved P load, respectively. Both structures underperformed relative to laboratory flow-through experiments and exhibited signs of flow inhibition with time. Dissolved P removal decreased dramatically when treated water pH decreased <8.5. Although slag has proven successful for treating surface runoff, we hypothesize that underperformance in this case was due to tile drainage bicarbonate consumption of slag calcium through the precipitation of calcium carbonate, thereby filling pore space, decreasing flow and pH, and preventing calcium phosphate precipitation. We do not recommend non-treated steel slag for removing dissolved P from tile drainage unless slag is replaced every 4–6 months.
The Impact of Capillary Trapping of Air on Satiated Hydraulic Conductivity of Sands Interpreted by X-ray Microtomography
Authors: Princ Tomas , Fideles Helena Maria Reis , Koestel Johannes , Snehota Michal
Published: February 2020

The relationship between entrapped air content and the corresponding hydraulic conductivity was investigated experimentally for two coarse sands. Two packed samples of 5 cm height were prepared for each sand. Air entrapment was created by repeated infiltration and drainage cycles. The value of K was determined using repetitive falling-head infiltration experiments, which were evaluated using Darcy’s law. The entrapped air content was determined gravimetrically after each infiltration run. The amount and distribution of air bubbles were quantified by micro-computed X-ray tomography (CT) for selected runs. The obtained relationship between entrapped air content and satiated hydraulic conductivity agreed well with Faybishenko’s (1995) formula. CT imaging revealed that entrapped air contents and bubbles sizes were increasing with the height of the sample. It was found that the size of the air bubbles and clusters increased with each experimental cycle. The relationship between initial and residual gas saturation was successfully fitted with a linear model. The combination of X-ray computed tomography and infiltration experiments has a large potential to explore the effects of entrapped air on water flow.
Türkiye’de Ruhsal Hastalığı Olan Bireylere Yönelik Kurum Bakım Hizmetleri ve Bu Hizmetlerde Sosyal Hizmet Uygulamaları
Authors: Kaya Kılıç Ayten , Yılmaz Sema
Published: February 2020

Ruhsal
hastalığı olan bireylere yönelik toplum tarafından sağlanan hizmetler zamana ve
toplumların bakış açısına göre değişikliğe uğramıştır. Ruhsal hastaları kurumlara
kapatma geleneği 1950’li yıllardan sonra yerini toplum temelli hizmetlere bırakmıştır.
Ancak toplumda tedavi edilemeyen, gidecek yeri olmayan kimsesiz ruhsal
hastalığı olan bireylere yönelik kurum bakım hizmetleri 1990’lı yıllardan sonra
tekrar önem kazanmaya başlamıştır. Türkiye’de kurum bakım hizmetlerine yönelik
2000’li yıllardan sonra çıkarılan yasalar çerçevesinde özel yatılı bakım
merkezleri desteklenmiş ve yaygınlaştırılmıştır. Bu doğrultuda, özel yatılı bakım merkezlerinde sosyal hizmet
uzmanları da istihdam edilmeye başlamıştır. Bu çalışma, Türkiye’de kurum bakım
hizmetlerinin gelişimi ve yasal düzenlemeleri, kurumlarda
verilen hizmetler ile merkezdeki sosyal hizmet mesleğinin uygulama alanlarına yönelik düzenlenen bilgilerin literatüre
ve alanda çalışan sosyal hizmet meslek elamanlarına katkı sunması amacıyla
hazırlanmıştır.
APPLICATION OF THE TOPSIS PROCEDURE FOR EVALUATION OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE WEST POMERANIAN VOIVODESHIP DISTRICTS IN YEARS 2004-2017
Authors: Oesterreich Maciej , Perzyńska Joanna , Barej-Kaczmarek Emilia
Published: February 2020

The article presents the problem of local socio-economic development. An illustration of theoretical considerations is an empirical study on evaluation of the West Pomeranian Voivodship districts' development since Poland's accession to the European Union.  In the research, a taxonomic measure of development was used to assess the level and rate of districts' development. The empirical study was carried out in four main stages: collection of initial characteristics, reduction of the initial set of diagnostic features (to ensure their highest diagnostic value), calculations of synthetic measures using the modified TOPSIS procedure and construction of rankings of districts on that basis, creation of typological groups of districts characterized by a similar level and the pace of development. The study showed the existence of large diversification of economic development of the surveyed districts. The highest level of socio-economic development in both: 2004 and 2017 was characteristic for the Kamieński district and the lowest level of development in 2004 was observed in the Wałecki district and in 2017 in the Gryficki district. The highest pace of changes in the level of socio-economic development between 2004 and 2017 was recorded for the  Białogardzki district, while the lowest for the  Świdwiński district.
HUASTECA 700, VARIEDAD DE SOYA PARA EL SUR DE TAMAULIPAS, MÉXICO
Authors: Maldonado-Moreno Nicolás , Ascencio-Luciano Guillermo , García-Rodríguez Julio C.
Published: February 2020

En el sur de Tamaulipas, México, el cultivo de la soya [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] se practica en condiciones de temporal durante el ciclo primavera-verano desde hace 40 años. La superficie sembrada con soya ha variado entre 90 mil y 124 mil hectáreas en los últimos años, con rendimientos promedio que fluctúan de 0.82 a 1.80 t ha-1 (SIAP, 2018), lo cual depende del nivel tecnológico que aplican los productores y de las condiciones climatológicas prevalecientes durante el ciclo del cultivo. Los rendimientos de grano se ven limitados por la falta de humedad durante la etapa reproductiva de la soya y por la sensibilidad de las variedades al fotoperiodo corto, principalmente cuando la fecha de siembra se retrasa debido a deficiencias hídricas. Por lo anterior, el enfoque del mejoramiento genético de la soya en el trópico mexicano se centra en la generación de genotipos con 45 días a floración como mínimo, para no mermar el rendimiento, y que el periodo entre las etapas fenológicas R4 (vaina completa) y R7 (inicio de madurez fisiológica), según el perfil de Fehr y Caviness (1977), coincida con la época de mayor probabilidad de lluvias, sin dejar de considerar las características de alta productividad, baja sensibilidad al fotoperiodo corto, tolerancia a sequía, enfermedades foliares más comunes y contenido de proteína y aceite en la semilla.
VALORACIÓN DEL ORIGEN AFRICANIZADO EN LA INTEGRACIÓN DE UNA POBLACIÓN EXPERIMENTAL DE Apis mellifera L.
Authors: Urbina-Romero Rebeca A. , Utrera-Quintana Fernando , Castillo-González Fernando , Livera-Muñoz Manuel , Benítez-Riquelme Ignacio , Villa-Mancera Abel E. , Hernández-Hernández Jorge E. , Silva-Rojas Hilda V.
Published: February 2020

La abeja africana (Apis mellifera scutellata) se introdujo del sur de África aBrasil en 1956 para inducir recombinaciones genéticas y generar segregantes adaptados a zonas tropicales; sin embargo, 26 colonias escaparon y con ello se inició un proceso de africanización en el continente americano. Se integró un apiario experimental mediante la recombinación de germoplasma europeo y africanizado con propósitos de mejoramiento genético, el cual se ha mantenido sin aplicación de acaricidas contra varroasis por más de 20 años. La población se generó mediante cruzamientos controlados de abejas europeas (Apis mellifera ligustica) que habían estado bajo mejoramiento genético por alrededor de 15 años (fuente de zánganos) con abejas africanizadas (A. m. scutellata con probable recombinación con diversas subespecies de abejas europeas) que habían estado sujetas a un proceso de selección para su semidomesticación y mejoramiento genético bajo criterios apícolas (fuente de abejas reinas). Con el objeto de tener información sobre el origen materno de la población, se realizó secuenciación de las regiones intergénicas COICOII y ND5 del ADNmt en una muestra aleatoria de 19 colmenas. Se confirmó el origen materno africano de A. m. scutellata (74 %) y se reveló la presencia de colmenas de origen híbrido de A. m. scutellata × A. m. capensis (26 %), no reportado en México hasta antes de esta investigación. Los resultados parecen indicar que las abejas africanizadas han conservado su ADN mitocondrial a través del proceso de dispersión.
CONCENTRACIÓN NUTRIMENTAL DE BIOCARBÓN DE CASCARILLA DE ARROZ
Authors: Velázquez-Maldonado Jazmín , Juárez-López Porfirio , Anzaldo-Hernández José , Alejo-Santiago Gelacio , Valdez-Aguilar Luis Alonso , Alia-Tejacal Irán , López-Martínez Víctor , Pérez-Arias G. Alicia , Guillén-Sánchez Dagoberto
Published: February 2020

El biocarbón es un material sólido poroso que se produce por la conversión termoquímica de materiales orgánicos en un ambiente limitado o en ausencia de oxígeno; tiene propiedades físico-químicas aptas para el almacenamiento a largo plazo de carbono y, potencialmente, mejora la fertilidad de los suelos. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la concentración nutrimental en biocarbón elaborado con cascarilla de arroz (Oryza sativa L.) y adicionado con ácido cítrico, maleico y propiónico al 5 y 10 % como catalizadores. El biocarbón se elaboró con la técnica de carbonización hidrotérmica a 200 ºC durante 19 h. Se determinó el rendimiento de biocarbón, concentración de materia orgánica y de N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Si y Na. Los mayores rendimientos de biocarbón (66 %) se obtuvieron cuando se añadieron los ácidos maleico y cítrico al 10 %. El mayor contenido de materia orgánica (71 %) se obtuvo con ácido maleico al 5 %. En general, los tres macronutrimentos con mayor concentración (mg kg-1) fueron Ca (4386-10,988), N (3067- 4467) y K (327-3530), mientras que los micronutrimentos con mayor concentración (mg kg-1) fueron Fe (77.1-238.3) y Mn (75.4-281.4), así como el elemento benéfico Na (92.8-160.0). Por sus características de rendimiento, concentraciones de materia orgánica y nutrimental, el biocarbón de cascarilla de arroz potencialmente se podría usar como mejorador de suelos agrícolas.
CARACTERIZACIÓN DE POBLACIONES SOBRESALIENTES DE MAÍZ DE LA RAZA ZAPALOTE CHICO
Authors: Cabrera-Toledo José M. , Carballo-Carballo Aquiles , Mejía-Contreras José A. , García-de los Santos Gabino , Vaquera-Huerta Humberto
Published: February 2020

La raza Zapalote Chico de maíz (Zea mays L.) es un componente importante dentro de la diversidad genética de esta especie en la región del Istmo de Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, México. Esta raza suscita interés entre los agricultores locales e investigadores con fines de preservación y difusión. Salvaguardar los recursos fitogenéticos es de relevancia para asegurar la soberanía alimentaria mexicana. Bajo el contexto del cambio climático, las características agronómicas y bondades de Zapalote Chico constituyen una opción viable para considerarse en los programas de mejoramiento nacional e internacional. El objetivo del presente estudio fue realizar una caracterización morfológica de 18 poblaciones nativas de maíz sobresalientes de la raza Zapalote Chico para determinar el grado de variabilidad existente. Se registraron 16 variables cuantitativas y nueve cualitativas de la planta, la espiga y la mazorca. El análisis de varianza sobre las variables cuantitativas mostró que en 13 variables hubo diferencia estadística altamente significativa y en dos la diferencia fue significativa. En el análisis de componentes principales los tres primeros componentes explicaron el 59.06 % de la varianza acumulada; las características con mayor valor descriptivo de la variabilidad fenotípica entre las poblaciones evaluadas fueron la relación entre la altura de la mazorca superior y altura de planta, altura de planta, altura de mazorca, número de hileras de la mazorca, diámetro de mazorca, longitud de espiga y longitud del eje central de la espiga. Las colectas que más contribuyeron a la variabilidad fueron ZAP-MOR, OAX-827, OAX-832 y COL-51. La similitud fue más evidente en las poblaciones de mayor y menor altitud, ya que las de altura intermedia se apartaron notablemente, lo que puede obedecer a que son de la localidad de estudio y se probaron ahí mismo.
Developing Academic Advisors and Competence Committees members: A community approach to developing CBME faculty leaders
Authors: Soleas Eleftherios , Dagnone Damon , Stockley Denise , Garton Kendall , Van Wylick Richard
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Implementing competency-based medical education (CBME) at the institutional level poses many challenges including having to rapidly enable faculty to be facilitators and champions of a new curriculum which utilizes feedback, coaching, and models of programmatic assessment. This study presents the necessary competencies required for Academic Advisors (AA) and Competence Committee (CC) members, as identified in the literature and as perceived by faculty members at Queen’s University.

Methods: This study integrated a review of available literature (n=26) yielding competencies that were reviewed by the authors followed by an external review consisting of CBME experts (n=5). These approved competencies were used in a cross-sectional community consultation survey distributed one year before (n=83) and one year after transitioning to CBME (n=144).

Findings: Our newly identified competencies are a useful template for other institutions. Academic Advisor competencies focused on mentoring and coaching, whereas Competence Committee member’s competencies focused on integrating assessments and institutional policies. Competency discrepancies between stakeholder groups existing before the transition had disappeared in the post-implementation sample.

Conclusions: We found value in taking an active community-based approach to developing and validating faculty leader competencies sooner rather than later when transitioning to CBME. The evolution of Competence Committees members and Academic Advisors requires the investment of specialized professional development and the sustained engagement of a collaborative community with shared concerns.
A Generalization of Parking Functions Allowing Backward Movement
Authors: Christensen Alex , Harris Pamela E. , Jones Zakiya , Loving Marissa , Ramos Rodríguez Andrés , Rennie Joseph , Rojas Kirby Gordon
Published: February 2020

Classical parking functions are defined as the parking preferences for $n$ cars driving (from west to east) down a one-way street containing parking spaces labeled from $1$ to $n$ (from west to east). Cars drive down the street toward their preferred spot and park there if the spot is available. Otherwise, the car continues driving down the street and takes the first available parking space, if such a space exists. If all cars can park using this parking rule, we call the $n$-tuple containing the cars' parking preferences a parking function.  

In this paper, we introduce a generalization of the parking rule allowing cars whose preferred space is taken to first proceed up to $k$ spaces west of their preferred spot to park before proceeding east if all of those $k$ spaces are occupied. We call parking preferences which allow all cars to park under this new parking rule $k$-Naples parking functions of length $n$. This generalization gives a natural interpolation between classical parking functions, the case when $k=0$, and all $n$-tuples of positive integers $1$ to $n$, the case when $k\geq n-1$. Our main result provides a recursive formula for counting $k$-Naples parking functions of length $n$. We also give a characterization for the $k=1$ case by introducing a new function that maps $1$-Naples parking functions to classical parking functions, i.e. $0$-Naples parking functions. Lastly, we present a bijection between $k$-Naples parking functions of length $n$ whose entries are in weakly decreasing order and a family of signature Dyck paths.
Functionalized 1,5,7-triazabicyclo [4.4.0] dec-5-ene (TBD) as Novel Organocatalyst for Efficient Depolymerization of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Wastes
Authors: Nica Simona , Duldner Monica , Hanganu Anamaria , Iancu Stela , Cursaru Bogdan , Sarbu Andrei , Filip Petru , Bartha Emeric
Published: February 2020

Poly(ethyleneterephthalate) waste was efficiently depolymerized through glycolysis and aminolysis reactions in the presence of functionalized 1,5,7-triazabicyclo [4.4.0] dec-5-ene (TBD) catalyst. The new catalyst of monoamide-ester type, was synthesized through reaction of dimethylterephthalate (DMT) with TBD in refluxing benzene. It was developed as a consequence of the mechanistic investigations of the transesterification reaction of isosorbide with DMT. To test the stability of functionalized TBD compound towards possible amide bond breakage, reactions with primary and secondary glycols as well as primary amines were performed when only the carboxymethyl group reacted. Moreover, it was found that the depolymerization of poly(ethyleneterephthalate) wastes proceeds faster in the presence of this novel organocatalyst by comparison with the hygroscopic TBD precursor.
Biochemical and Physiological Effects of Some Organic and Inorganic Chemical Agents in Capsicum spp.
Authors: Todirascu Ciornea Elena , Grosu Elena , Bucur Diana Elena , Lobiuc Andrei
Published: February 2020

Cultivation of vegetables is expected to increase in order to meet the demands of the expanding populations of the globe. Meanwhile, anthropic activities increase the concentrations of various chemical compounds in aquatic and terrestrial habitats. For productivity and food safety reasons, assessments of effects of pesticides and metals on crops should be performed. In the current paper, the presence of some heavy metals and a pesticide compound in the substrate altered the levels of some Krebs cycle enzymes activities in pepper plants cultivated in controlled conditions. The photosynthetic apparatus of the same plants appeared relatively unaffected, while the potential/actual soil dehydrogenases ratios were increased in all treatments.
Bioadhesives Used in Cardiovascular Surgery
Authors: Moldovan Horatiu , Gheorghita Daniela , Antoniac Iulian , Gheorghe Dan , Fiori Fabrizio , Mohan Aurel , Raftu Gheorghe , Ionel Cristian , Costache Victor
Published: February 2020

The aim of the paper was to describe the advantages and disadvantages of the surgical adhesives most useful in major cardiovascular surgery.
Synthesis, Characterization and Toxicity Evaluation of Cu(II), Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Pd(II) Complexes with Ligand Derived from Hydrazinecarbothioamide
Authors: Pahontu Elena , Socea Laura Ileana , Barbuceanu Stefania Felicia , Ilies Diana Carolina , Badea Mihaela , Olaru Octavian Tudorel , Gulea Aurelian , Socea Bogdan , Bratu Ovidiu
Published: February 2020

New copper(II), manganese(II), cobalt(II), nickel(II) and palladium(II) complexes, [Cu(L)(X)(H2O)] [X= OAc- (1), Cl- (3), ClO4- (4)], [M(L)2(H2O)2] [M= Cu2+(2), Mn2+(5)], [M(L)(OAc)(H2O)] [M= Co2+(6), Pd2+(8)], [Ni(L)(OAc)] (7) were synthesized with 2-(5H-dibenzo [a,d][7] annulen-5-ylacetyl)-N-(4-chlorophenyl) hydrazinecarbothioamide (HL). All the metal complexes have been characterized by different physico-chemical techniques like molar conductivity, magnetic susceptibility measurements, electronic and infrared spectral studies, elemental and thermal analysis. The toxicity of newly synthesized compounds was evaluated using the Daphnia magna bioassay.
The Study of the Mechanical Properties of Small Tubes Made from Oxide Dispersion Strengthened Steel by Using the Ring Tension Tests
Authors: Nitu Alexandru , Abrudeanu Marioara , Radu Vasile
Published: February 2020

The paper aims to investigate the mechanical properties of tubes having a small diameter and made from new steels called ODS steels Oxide Dispersion Strengthened steels). These new materials are candidate materials for fuel claddings in the generation IV reactors. This work contributes to original results to the experimental program carried out by RATEN ICN Pitesti in the framework of the FP7 European MatISSE Project (Materials� Innovations for a Safe and Sustainable nuclear �n Europe). The experimental method used for the investigating of the mechanical properties of ODS steel tubes is a non-standard method, known as Ring Tension Test (acronym - RTT). It is recommended for the mechanical testing of tubes with thinner walls and reduced inner diameter. The main advantage of RTT is that the tested sample maintains the initial geometry of the component from which has been made. For the experimental RTT tests, the ODS tubes were provided by MatISSE Project participant, CEA France. Tubes are in two different compositions: Fe-9Cr ODS and Fe-14Cr ODS. For a better understanding of the ODS mechanical properties, some further investigation on the scanning electron microscopy is carried out.
Predictive Biological Markers in Post-therapeutic Evolution in Obese Patients
Authors: Trandafir Laura Mihaela , Baciu Ginel , Leon Constantin Maria Magdalena , Mastaleru Alexandra , Temneanu Oana Raluca , Mihai Bogdan , Novac Otilia , Frasinariu Otila Elena , Ivan Andrei , Tudorachi Nicoleta Bianca , Hiary Rami Al , Moscalu Mihaela
Published: February 2020

Childhood obesity is a leading public health concern because it represents a risk factor for many comorbid conditions in youth, such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome and sleep apnea. The purposes of the study were to evaluate the effect of the program at 6 months after the first visit and determine the predictive factors. We realised a retrospective study that included 69 obese children and adolescent, boys and girls, followed-up at Saint Mary Children�s Hospital and Regional Center of Diagnosis, Counselling and Monitoring of Overweight and Obese Children from �Grigore T. Popa� University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, Romania, aged 12 to 18 years. The patients were included in two groups: group 1 included 38 patients receveived a hypocaloric diet only and group 2 included 31 patients received a hypocaloric diet associated with kinetotherapy and psychoterapy. We evaluated the body mass index, total cholesterol and tryglicerides before and after treatment. Our results confirm that diet and physical activity affects significantly the serum lipid profile. In this context, decreasing obesity in children through diet and exercise should be an important strategy for preventing cardio-metabolical disease in adult.
Comparison of Tumor - Infiltrating Lymphocytes Between Primary and Metastatic Tumors in Her2+ and HER2-Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Mehedintu Claudia , Bratila Elvira , Berceanu Costin , Cirstoiu Monica Mihaela , Barac Ramona Ileana , Andreescu Cristina Veronica , Badiu Dumitru Cristinel , Gales Laurentia , Zgura Anca , Bumbu Adrian Gheorghe
Published: February 2020

The impact of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) on survival was confirmed in various cancer types. Our study aims to investigate the prognostic role of TILs on survival in patients with primary and metastatic tumors in breast cancer patients. We retrospectively identified 29 patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor - 2 (HER2+) and HER2 - early breast cancer diagnosed between 2012 and 2018 at Institute of Oncology Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu Bucharest and who subsequently experienced regional or distant recurrence confirmed by tumor biopsy/resection.
Boswellia Derivates and Rehabilitation Program in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Traistaru Rodica , Alexandru Dragos Ovidiu , Kamal Diana , Kamal Kamal Constantin , Rogoveanu Otilia Constantina , Postolache Paraschiva
Published: February 2020

In the present study, we aim to highlight the role of Boswellia derivates in the rehabilitation of the clinical and functional status of patients with knee osteoarthritis. Probably, the judiciously association between herbal products and rehabilitation methods (ultrasound and physical exercise) will give the optimal healthcare for this type of patients.
Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction and Atrial Fibrillation A review
Authors: Manea Maria , Marcu Dragos , Stoian Anca Pantea , Gaman Mihnea Alexandru , Gaman Amelia Maria , Socea Bogdan , Neagu Tiberiu Paul , Stanescu Ana Maria Alexandra , Bratu Ovidiu Gabriel , Diaconu Camelia Cristina
Published: February 2020

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are two conditions with an increased incidence and prevalence. Numerous studies highlight the pathophysiological links between HFpEF and AF and the common risk factors. Patients with HFpEF have a high incidence of AF. It is difficult to determine which of the pathologies appears first: HFpEF or AF. In HFpEF, left atrium suffers a structural and functional remodelling process, which contributes to the occurrence of AF. Also, AF determines dyastolic dysfunction, the main mechanism for HFpEF development. The diagnosis of HFpEF in the presence of AF is more difficult, because the symptoms of HF resemble those of AF. Also, the presence of AF makes more difficult the correct echocardiographic evaluation of patients with HF. More research is needed in order to develop new therapies that can improve the prognosis of patients with HFpEF and AF.
Use of Intraoperative Analgesic and Anesthetic Substances by Intramuscular Infiltrations during Hip Surgery for Postoperative Pain Monitoring
Authors: Hogea Bogdan , Andor Bogdan Corneliu , Totorean Alina , Hogea Lavinia Maria , Nussbaum Laura Alexandra , Bistrian Anca , Sandesc Mihai Alexandru , Folescu Roxana , Stanciulescu Maria Corina , Dobrin Romeo Petru , Boanca Mihaela , Patrascu Jr. Jenel Marian
Published: February 2020

The authors present their intraoperative and postoperative experience in using intramuscular infiltrations with analgesic and anesthetic substances as pain control methods in patients that undergo hip surgery: arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty. A total of 30 patients that have undergone either an elective total hip arthroplasty surgery or hemiarthroplasty of the hip following a hip fracture, since May 2018 until August 2018. The patients were divided in two equal groups, one group that followed through the protocol and one control group. The intramuscular infiltrations were administered intraoperatively at the timeline of the muscle suture and contained: Bupivacaine 10 mL + Morphine 1 mL + Methylprednisolone 40mg. Postoperative protocol used the visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores on days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 for measuring the postoperative pain control. Intraoperative intramuscular infiltrations, with an analgesic and anesthetic cocktail consisting of Bupivacaine, Morphine and Methylprednisolone, for patients that are going through hip surgery are safe to use with very good results in terms of postoperative pain control. We reduced the consumption of opioids and analgesic drugs, which indirectly leads to decreased direct cost per patient. Another important benefit was an early active mobilization of the patient, with shorter hospitalization time. All things considered, using regional anesthesia and multimodal pain management techniques may lead to a nearly painless hip surgery.
Electromagnetic Pollution of the Environment and its Effects on the Materials from the Built up Media
Authors: Lingvay Iosif , Bors Adriana Mariana , Lingvay Daniel , Radermacher Ladislau , Neagu Vlad
Published: February 2020

In built up media (complex built environment), the materials are simultaneously exposed to a series of physical, chemical and microbiological stress factors that act synergistically with disturbing electromagnetic fields and cause material degradation - with consequences on the durability and safety in exploitation of buildings and installations. The main generative sources of disturbing fields (stray current generators) on built up media are railroads with DC or AC traction with various operating voltage and frequency, medium and high voltage overhead power lines and unbalanced currents from a three-phase power system. The generated stray currents cause destruction both in metallic elements of built structures (railroads, power installations) and in neighbouring constructions and installations (belonging to other administrations) with negative environmental implications.
Controled Ovarian Stimulation with Urinary Gonadotrophins and Recombinant Gonadotrophins in Current Practice
Authors: Mehedintu Claudia , Bratila Elvira , Brinduse Lacramioara Aurelia , Cirstoiu Monica Mihaela , Berceanu Costin , Bordea Alina , Comandasu Diana Elena , Veliscu Andreea Carp , Bratu Ovidiu , Sava Cristian , Bumbu Adrian Gheorghe
Published: February 2020

The main objective of the this study is to compare the effectiveness of ovarian stimulation with recombinant gonadotrophins (FSHr) versus urinary gonadotrophins (hMG) within the number of oocytes obtained and the number of embryos in the two patient groups, according to age groups and associated pathologies. The study design was retrospective, monocentric. All patients (71) who have addressed the In Vitro Fertilization Clinic of the Prof. Dr. Panait Sirbu Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital during 01.01.2010 and 31.12.2010 were included in this research. The total number of oocytes (8.5�3.9 vs 5.7�3.9, p=0.045), the number of fertilized oocytes (7.5�3.6 versus 3.6�2.8 p=0.004) and the number of embryos (6.6�3.5 versus 3.7�2.6, p=0.013) were higher in women under 35 years of age treated with recombinant FSHr compared to women treated with urinary gonadotrophins hMG. Ovarian stimulation with recombinant gonadotrophins provides a greater number of oocytes and a greater number of embryos in all patients, regardless of age and associated pathology. There are many variables that can influence the success rate, but the first variable that can be controlled is the choice of FSHr in daily clinical practice.
Diagnostic, Treatment and Recovery of Early Infections After ACL Reconstruction A retrospective study
Authors: Georgeanu Vlad , Copaciu Radu , Atasiei Tudor , Gartonea Dinu , Shahzad Behroz , Shahzad Gabriel , Sandulescu Oana
Published: February 2020

The ACL reconstruction is usually a safe procedure and infection is rather uncommon. Despite this, when infection occurs, it has a devastating potential for the knee joint which can result in a poor clinical outcome. Treatment protocol differs, and optimal management has not been established. The purpose of the study was to determine the incidence of postoperative infections after ACL reconstruction on 262 cases of arthroscopic ACL reconstructions which were operated in a period of 4 years (2014 -2017), with a follow-up period of minimum 12 months. Six cases (2.29 %) with infections were identified and analyzed in regard to clinical presentation, microbiological findings and therapeutic approach. In three out of six cases the germ identified in the aspirate from the joint was coagulase-negative staphylococci (50%); other germs were gr. D. Streptococcus (16%) and E. Coli (16%). In one case, we did not identify the germ. The surgical intervention was conducted in the first 12 h from admission. All these cases underwent aggressive arthroscopic debridement and antibiotic treatment. Eradication was achieved in all patients with graft retention in 5 cases (83.3%) and graft removal in one case. The mean duration of antibiotic treatment was 6 weeks and no recurrence of the infection was seen.
Early Outcomes in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Full Tibial tunnel technique compared to all-inside technique
Authors: Russu Octav Marius , Ciorcila Emilian , Feier Andrei Marian , Fleaca Radu , Zuh Sandor Gyorgy , Ioanovici Andrei Constantin , Gergely Istvan
Published: February 2020

The all-inside technique for ACL reconstruction uses the semitendinous muscle tendon as a graft, and postoperative pain is slightly reduced. Through the full tibial tunnel technique, better anatomical graft placement is obtained with promising results, yet there are only few scientific articles comparing the two techniques. The main objective is evaluation of results after ACL reconstruction by comparing the clinical results of the two surgical techniques. A prospective study was conducted that included 63 eligible patients according to pre-established criteria. The technique used was randomly indicated to each patient. Demographics and clinical examination results were collected and subsequently stored. The assessment tools used were the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) with a 6-month follow-up period. The statistical analysis was performed for preoperative follow-up scores, at 3 and 6 months. All patients were operated by the same surgical team under spinal anesthesia with nerve block and tourniquet applied.In regards to IKDC and KOOS scores, the difference between the two interventions was not statistically significant (p = .579 and p = .710). Postoperative pain was slightly reduced in patients in the all-inside\ group but without any statistical significance compared to full-tibial tunnel technique(p = .259). There were no graft ruptures or late postoperative complications. Regarding IKDC, KOOS and VAS evaluating tools, there is no statistically significant difference between the two evaluated methods for ACL reconstruction, all-inside and full tibial tunnel at 3 months and 6 months after surgery.
Research on Chemical Composition and Nutritive Value of Green Fodder Used in Ecological Production of Eggs for Consumption
Authors: Nacu Gherasim , Bologa Maria , Pop Cecilia , Boisteanu Paul Corneliu , Simeanu Daniel , Dolis Marius Gheorghe , Donosa Raluca
Published: February 2020

The aim of this paper is to study the chemical composition of a green fodder used in laying hens feeding raised in ecological system; organic fodder being an important condition to obtain organic eggs for consumption. In order to evaluate the chemical composition variations of the green fodder throughout the year, there were taken plants samples in three different vegetation stages (May, September and October). To each period, were done 5 determinations for the following indicators: dry matter - DM (%), ash - Ash (%), crude protein - CP (%), ether extract - EE (%), crude fiber -CF(%), nitrogen free extract - (NFE%) calcium � Ca(%), phosphorus - P(%), magnesium - Mg (%), natrium -Na(%). And also, were analyzed the relevant indexes for the organic production: lead -Pb (mg/kg DM), cadmium - Cd (mg/kg DM), cooper -Cu (mg/kg DM), zinc - Zn (mg/kg DM) nitrites (ppm), nitrates (ppm), pesticides. After analysis, it was noticed that dry matter, minerals, organic matter and protein content varied very significantly between the first period and the third (p �0.001), while the fat content, crude fiber and nitrogen free extract did not register significant differences (p �0.05). Regarding the minerals elements analyzed, P and Mg differed significantly distinctly between the first and the last analyzed period. The content of green fodder in Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn was below the limits allowed by current legislation. The analyses for pesticides have highlighted the lack of them in the fodder. The quality parameters of the analyzed green fodder, expressed through levels of pollutants such as heavy metals, nitrites, nitrates, pesticides, allow us to notify that the green fodders achieve the conditions necessary for organic production.
Socio-environmental Factors Associated with Dental Malocclusion
Authors: Raftu Gheorghe , Nicolae Cristina , Kamel Earar , Caraiane Aureliana
Published: February 2020

Worldwide, with the economic growth malocclusions recorded a significant increase, which has led to their ranking as the third most widespread oral health problem after dental caries and periodontal disease being considered the third priority among oral problems by the World Health Organization. The aim of this study consisted of an evaluation of the socio-environmental factors associated with dental malocclusion. The clinical characteristics of 125 children (from 5 to 12 years old, with no previous orthodontic treatment), were evaluated by means of a visual examination . Information about the socio - environmental characteristics of the children�s families were collected by means of a questionnaire addressed to their parents/guardian. The prevalence of malocclusions was 67.5% (84). Regarding the types of malocclusions included in this study and the most prevalent were: increased overjet 33.33% (28), deep overbite 21.42% (18), posterior crossbite 9.52% (8) and anterior open bite 2.38% (2). The results underline the need to reduce social disparities in oral health among children. In conclusion, it was observed that the socio-environmental factors influence the curative dental needs of children. Some associations were found between malocclusion and societal/behavioral parameters.
Formulation, Preparation, Physico-chimical Analysis, Microbiological Peculiarities and Therapeutic Challenges of Extractive Solution of Kombucha
Authors: Dumitriu Buzia Olimpia , Fasie Valeria , Mardare Nela , Diaconu Camelia , Gurau Gabriela , Tatu Alin Laurentiu
Published: February 2020

This paper aimed at the preparation and characterisation of an extractive solution of Kombucha. We have applied the method of water extraction of a species of yeast, Kombucha, grown and proliferated in the pharmaceutical technology laboratory of the Faculty of Pharmacy at Dunarea de Jos University of Galati. Samples of various sugar concentrations have been prepared, as well as samples subject to concentration, thus obtaining extracts of up to 80% concentration. The extract obtained was analysed chemically and microbiologically. The main elements highlighted in the composition of the extractive solution were: iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium and potassium. The antimicrobial activity in strains: Gram-positive: Staphylococcus aureus, Gram-negative: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia Coli, fungi: Candida albicans.
The Antioxidant Activity of Some Acylhydrazones with Dibenzo[a,d][7]annulene Moiety
Authors: Socea Laura Ileana , Visan Diana Carolina , Barbuceanu Stefania Felicia , Apostol Theodora Venera , Bratu Ovidiu Gabriel , Socea Bogdan
Published: February 2020

Searching new antioxidants compounds to prevent or reduce the impact of oxidative stress on cells, we designed and synthesized several N-acylhydrazone derivatives with dibenzo[a,d][7]annulene moiety. In this work, a series of previously synthesized N-acylhydrazone derivatives bearing 5H-dibenzo[a,d][7]annulene moiety 7a-g were evaluated for antioxidant activity effect, using the DPPH method. The highest antioxidant activity was exhibited by the compound 7f containing in his molecule 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl fragment.
Design, Synthesis and Docking Studies of Some Novel Fluoroquinolone Compounds with Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Pintilie Lucia , Stefaniu Amalia , Nicu Alina Ioana , Maganu Maria , Caproiu Miron Teodor
Published: February 2020

A new series of fluoroquinolone compounds have been obtained by Gould-Jacobs method. The compounds have been characterized by physic-chemical methods (elemental analysis, FTIR, NMR, UV-Vis) and by antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. For the synthesized compounds have been performed calculations of characteristics and molecular properties, using Spartan�14 Software from Wavefunction, Inc. Irvine, CA. and molecular docking studies using CLC Drug Discovery Workbench 2.4 software, to identify and visualize the most likely interaction ligand (fluoroquinolone) with the receptor protein.