bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and hospital course of patients admitted for acute cardiovascular diseases during the coronavirus disease-19 outbreak
Authors: Zorzi Alessandro , Vio Riccardo , Rivezzi Francesco , Falzone Pasquale V. , Giordani Andrea S. , Condello Chiara , Dellino Carlo M. , Deola Petra , Gallucci Marco , Giannattasio Alessia , Licchelli Luca , Lupasco Diana , Montonati Carolina , Ravagnin Alberto , Sinigiani Giulio , Torreggiani Gianpaolo , Vianello Riccardo , Migliore Federico , Famoso Giulia , Babuin Luciano , Cacciavillani Luisa , Iliceto Sabino
Published: November 2020

Introduction

During the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) outbreak in spring 2020, people may have been reluctant to seek medical care fearing infection. We aimed to assess the number, characteristics and in-hospital course of patients admitted for acute cardiovascular diseases during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Methods

We enrolled all consecutive patients admitted urgently for acute myocardial infarction, heart failure or arrhythmias from 1 March to 31 May 2020 (outbreak period) and 2019 (control period). We evaluated the time from symptoms onset to presentation, clinical conditions at admission, length of hospitalization, in-hospital medical procedures and outcome. The combined primary end point included in-hospital death for cardiovascular causes, urgent heart transplant or discharge with a ventricular assist device.

Results

A similar number of admissions were observed in 2020 (N = 210) compared with 2019 (N = 207). Baseline characteristics of patients were also similar. In 2020, a significantly higher number of patients presented more than 6 h after symptoms onset (57 versus 38%, P < 0.001) and with signs of heart failure (33 versus 20%, P = 0.018), required urgent surgery (13 versus 5%, P = 0.004) and ventilatory support (26 versus 13%, P < 0.001). Hospitalization duration was longer in 2020 (median 10 versus 8 days, P = 0.03). The primary end point was met by 19 (9.0%) patients in 2020 versus 10 (4.8%) in 2019 (P = 0.09).

Conclusion

Despite the similar number and types of unplanned admissions for acute cardiac conditions during the 2020 COVID-19 outbreak compared with the same period in 2019, we observed a higher number of patients presenting late after symptoms onset as well as longer and more complicated clinical courses.
Reduction in acute coronary syndromes during coronavirus disease 2019 global pandemic: data from the Marche region of Italy
Authors: Flori Marco , Marinucci Lucia , Gabrielli Gabriele , Baiocco Erika , Accardi Roberto , Scalone Giancarla , Grossi Pierfrancesco , Guerra Federico
Published: November 2020

Aims

During the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic, a worldwide reduction in total acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has been reported. In early 2020, Italy became the most affected country and national lockdown was declared early on in March. We described trends in ACS from all the Marche coronary catheterization laboratories (CCL) during the global pandemic.

Methods

Retrospective study of all consecutive patients admitted to the four regional CCL. The coronavirus disease 2019 period (20 February 2020 to 15 April 2020) was compared with the interyear control period (1 January 2020 to 19 February 2020) and to the intrayear control period (20 February 2019 to 15 April 2019). All patients with an initial diagnosis of ACS were included in the analysis, and further stratified into ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI (NSTEMI)/unstable angina.

Results

A total of 1239 patients were enrolled. Daily incidence of ACS was 6.1, 6.3 and 4.5 for the interyear control period, the intrayear control period and the case period, respectively. There was no difference in overall STEMI daily incidence while NSTEMI/unstable angina fell from 3.6 and 3.3–1.8 during the case period (P = 0.01). Incidence rate ratios were significantly lower when the case period was compared with the intrayear control period (incidence rate ratios: 0.49, 95% confidence interval 0.41–0.59, P = 0.001) and the interyear control period (incidence rate ratios: 0.67, 95% confidence interval 0.50–0.90, P = 0.008).

Conclusion

During the global pandemic there was a significant reduction in total ACS and NSTEMI in the Marche region. Unlike previous reports, there was no difference in overall access to CCL for STEMI during the same period.
Imaging predictors of incident heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Georgiopoulos Georgios , Aimo Alberto , Barison Andrea , Magkas Nikolaos , Emdin Michele , Masci Pier-Giorgio
Published: November 2020

Background

Preventing the evolution of subclinical cardiac disease into overt heart failure is of paramount importance. Imaging techniques, particularly transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), are well suited to identify abnormalities in cardiac structure and function that precede the development of heart failure.

Methods

This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of 32 studies from 11 individual cohorts, which assessed cardiac indices from TTE (63%), cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR; 34%) or cardiac computed tomography (CCT; 16%). Eligible studies focused on measures of left ventricular geometry and function and were highly heterogeneous.

Results

Among the variables that could be assessed through a meta-analytic approach, left ventricular systolic dysfunction, defined as left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) lower than 50%, and left ventricular dilation were associated with a five-fold [hazard ratio (HR) 4.76, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.85–12.26] and three-fold (HR 3.14, 95% CI 1.37 –7.19) increased risk of heart failure development, respectively. Any degree of diastolic dysfunction conveyed an independent, albeit weaker, association with heart failure (HR 1.48, 95% CI 1.11–1.96), although there was only a trend for left ventricular hypertrophy in predicting incident heart failure (hazard ratio 2.85, 95% CI 0.82–9.85).

Conclusion

LVEF less than 50%, left ventricular dilation and diastolic dysfunction are independent predictors of incident heart failure among asymptomatic individuals, while left ventricular hypertrophy seems less predictive. These findings may serve as a framework for implementing imaging-based screening strategies in patients at risk of heart failure and inform future studies testing preventive or therapeutic approaches aiming at thwarting or halting the progression from asymptomatic (preclinical) to overt heart failure.
An Overview of Strategic Non-Biological Approaches for The Synthesis of Cupper Nanoparticles
Authors: Munir S. , Gul A.
Published: November 2020

Metal Nanoparticles show specific physical and chemical properties attributed to its small size and high surface area to volume ratio. These chemical and physical properties using different strategies and conditions enhance its biological application especially in the field of medicine. Earth abundant and cheap cupper metal is the essential element in many processes and has been used as a focus element to synthesize nanoparticles by different methods using new technology, which are being broadly classified as biological methods that includes green synthesis, microorganism etc. and the non-biological synthesis which includes chemical and Physical methods. Thus, the imperative need to synthesize cupper nanomaterial that are economic and efficient is necessary. This review have briefly described the modern methods to synthesize nanoparticles particularly focusing on the non-biological methods of cupper nanoparticles. An overview of current methodologies that are used for cupper nanoparticle mainly chemical reduction using organic and inorganic solvents, Reverse micelle, microemulsion, polyol method and several physical methods such as vapor condensation, photo irradiation and plasma synthesis methods are discussed.
Identifying the Critical Factors of Sustainable Manufacturing Using the Fuzzy DEMATEL Method
Authors: Jiang Luwei , Zhang Tenghao , Feng Yanfei
Published: November 2020

The burgeoning trend of globalization gives rise to the formation of the manufacturing ecosystem. This study aims to identify the critical factors of sustainable manufacturing for countries and regions across the globe finding their unique ecological niches. From the perspective of the ecological niche, we develop an evaluation system of the manufacturing niche. By using the fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method, the critical factors, and its causal relationships of the manufacturing niche can be quantified and visualized. The results indicate that: (1) the evaluation system of the manufacturing niche is characterized by complexity and interactivity; (2) technical factors have the strongest impact on the evaluation system, among which R&D investment intensity and the input-output ratio of new products are key indicators; and (3) technical and policy factors are decisive for the system and actively influence economic and ecological factors. Theoretically, it is beneficial to augment the niche theory and industrial economics. Practically, it helps to create a win-win situation to facilitate governments to enact suitable industrial strategies and assist the manufacturing toward a more sustainable trajectory.
Monotonicity and non-monotonicity regions of topological entropy for Lorenz-like families with infinite derivatives
Authors: Malkin M.I. , Safonov K.A.
Published: November 2020

We study behavior of the topological entropy as the function of parameters for two-parameter family of symmetric Lorenz maps T

c,ɛ
(x) = (−1 + c|x|
1−ɛ
) · sgn(x). This is the normal form for splitting the homoclinic loop in systems which have a saddle equilibrium with one-dimensional unstable manifold and zero saddle value. Due to L.P. Shilnikov results, such a bifurcation corresponds to the birth of Lorenz attractor (when the saddle value becomes positive). We indicate those regions in the bifurcation plane where the topological entropy depends monotonically on the parameter c, as well as those for which the monotonicity does not take place. Also, we indicate the corresponding bifurcations for the Lorenz attractors.
Local initiatives for green space using Poland's Village Fund: evidence from Lodzkie voivodeship
Authors: Feltynowski Marcin
Published: November 2020

Poland's Village Fund (Fundusz Sołecki) is an instrument operating at the level of the so-called sołectwo, into which local-administration units known as gminas may be further sub-divided. These are therefore auxiliary administrative units in rural areas whose receipt of means from the Fund in question allows for the activation of local communities. Against that background, the research detailed here sought to examine Village Fund by reference to the greenspace-related projects pursued using it in the rural gminas of Łódzkie Voivodeship. Additional aspects are the classification of the tasks carried out, presentation of the statistical analysis applied, and consideration of the breakdown obtained for indicators relating to the share of funds allocated to green areas – by reference to the properties of the normal distribution curve.
The Seismic Response of Fluid Filling in Rectangular Reservoir at Nador City Morocco
Authors: Kotrasová Kamila , Loukili Mohamed
Published: November 2020

This article deals with the liquid seismic effect owing to excitation of lateral base. When the rectangular reservoir contained the contained liquid vibrates, the liquid exerts the hydrodynamic pressure on the reservoir walls and the reservoir bottom. First the theoretical background of the fluid seismic effect on the solid domain of the rectangular reservoir is described in the paper. Thereafter, the rectangular fluid filing excited by the earth surface movement was calculated. The analysis of the liquid effect was situated for locality near Nador city at Morocco and respects of Eurocode recommendations.
Modelling of Ground Access Mode Choice: Empirical Evidence from Mehrabad International Airport, Tehran, Iran
Authors: Edrisi Ali , Vakilian Rambod , Ganjipour Houmaan , Jafari Ali Rezaei
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study is to investigate air travellers’ behaviour with regard to choices for ground access to this airport. Questionnaire data were collected from 684 respondents. Multinomial logit modelling was employed for this purpose. These findings indicate that in families with at least one car of their own, the tendency for using bus and carpooling was decreased. In addition, it was found that those in the 36 - 40 age group were more inclined to take the taxi. Finally, the results of this study suggest that with the growing price of the private car, the tendency to use it was diminished. Therefore, if transportation authorities seek to reduce the use of personal cars, it is possible to make the use of private cars expensive with increasing the parking cost in the airport. This may lead to the reduction of using private cars in land access to Mehrabad airport.
The significance of intellectual capital in strategies of transnational corporations
Authors: Rosińska-Bukowska Magdalena
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study is an attempt to identify crucial assets of intellectual capital (IC) of transnational corporations (TNCs). The author identifies key assets each of the IC layers: organizational, innovative, and institutional. Examining these complex constructions of IC and its comprehensive influence on achieving competitive advantage is justified as the topic has been investigated rarely till now.

Methods

The paper presents literature review and the results of an authorial survey (252 corporations). The author used the following methodology concepts: the Grounded Theory Method, the Social Network Analysis, and the Multidimensional Statistical Analysis.

Findings

The results of the conducted analysis do sustain the postulated hypothesis that the main pillars constituting the intellectual capital of the most powerful transnational corporations (leaders) are the same in terms of the core irrespective of the type of industry. Based on the conducted research, the author points to the three key requirements for each of three IC layers (organizational, innovative, and institutional).

Practical implication

The proposed model of layers of intellectual capital may be used to identify the relationship in question, or its lack of relationship, in other types of international business. Furthermore, the study results provide guidelines for executives of corporations with respect to intellectual capital management.

Originality/value

It is a new, original proposal for measurement and presentation of the relationship between international competitiveness of transnational corporations and their intellectual capital efficiency (pillars of IC-layers).
Artificial Neural Network and Regression Models to Evaluate Rheological Properties of Selected Brazilian Honeys
Authors: Silva Vanelle M. D. , Lacerda Wilian S. , de Resende Jaime V.
Published: November 2020

The relationships between physico-chemical and rheological properties are considered complex nonlinear systems. Thus, the artificial neural network (ANN) and regression models were used for the rheological characterization of Brazilian honeys, based on low-cost measurements of water content and temperature. The steady shear viscosity (η) performed well when measured in the test phase in a 2-12-1 neuron multilayer perceptron (MLP) ANN (model 1) with a root mean square error (RMSE) and correlation coefficient (r) equal to 0.0430 and 0.9681, respectively. The parameter loss modulus (G″), storage modulus (G′) and complex viscosity (η*) were predicted in the temperature sweep test by small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS) measurements during heating and cooling, and the MLP ANNs with architectures of 2-9-3 (model 2) and 2-3-3 (model 3) showed RMSE values equal to 0.0261 and 0.0387 in the test phase, respectively. For all the determined parameters, non-linear exponential models showed similar results to models 1, 2 and 3. An ANN with 3-9-3 architecture (model 4) showed RMSE and r for G′ equal to 0.0158 and 0.7301, for G″ equal to 0.0176 and 0.9581, and for η* equal to 0.0407 and 0.9647, respectively, in the test phase for date of the frequency sweep test obtained by SAOS. These results were far superior to those obtained by second-order multiple linear models. The acquisition of all models is an important application for the processing of honey and honey-based products, since these properties are essential in engineering calculations and quality control of products.
Bilateral Ocular Exophthalmia – A Case of Atypical Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia in a Child
Authors: Toth Réka , Grama Alina , Maki Cristina , Chinceșan Mihaela Ioana
Published: November 2020

Introduction

In acute myeloblastic leukaemia (AML) explosive proliferation and accumulation of immature myeloid cell clones take place, replacing the bone marrow, with the possibility of the formation of extramedullary tumour masses composed of myeloid cells. The onset of the disease less frequently consists of symptoms of extramedullary manifestation.

Case presentation

A Caucasian male child aged three years and 11 months was hospitalized for bilateral exophthalmos and otorrhea, due to an alteration in his general condition. Ocular ultrasound revealed an inhomogeneous thickening of the upper right muscles superior to the eyeball. A complete blood count showed severe anaemia, leucocytosis with neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. A peripheral blood smear evidenced myeloblasts. The result of the cytology of bone marrow confirmed the diagnosis of AML. Following blood product replacements and cytostatic treatment (AML-BFM 2004 HR protocol), the remission of exophthalmos and the correction of haematological parameters were favourable.

Conclusion

In a child with a sudden onset of exophthalmia and altered general condition, the diagnosis of acute leukaemia should be considered. The importance of performing a peripheral blood smear and bone marrow examination is emphasized so that diagnosis and initiation of treatment are not delayed.
The Prolonged Use of VV ECMO Support in COVID-19: A Case Report
Authors: Fitzgerald Amelia Lucy , Vachharajani Hemal Hitesh , Davidson Benjamin Paul , Kruit Natalie Joanne , Eslick Adam Trevor
Published: November 2020

COVID-19 has resulted in unprecedented global health and economic challenges. The reported mortality in patients with COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation is high. VV ECMO may serve as a lifesaving rescue therapy for a minority of patients with COVID-19; however, its impact on overall survival of these patients is unknown. To date, few reports describe successful discharge from ECMO in COVID-19 after a prolonged ECMO run. The only Australian case of a COVID-19 patient, supported by prolonged VV ECMO in conjunction with prone ventilation, complicated by significant airway bleeding, and successfully decannulated after forty-two days, is described. VV ECMO is a resource-intense form of respiratory support. Providing complex therapies such as VV ECMO during a pandemic has its unique challenges. This case report provides a unique insight into the potential clinical sequelae of COVID-19, supported in an intensive care environment which was not resource-limited at the time, and adds to the evolving experience of prolonged VV ECMO support for ARDS with a goal to lung recovery.
E-test determination of antifungal susceptibility of Candida species isolated from turkeys
Authors: Sokół Ireneusz , Tokarzewski Stanisław , Bobrek Kamila , Gaweł Andrzej
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Candida species are a natural component of the intestinal tract microflora, but in favourable conditions they can cause superficial, mucosal, or even systemic candidiasis. Poultry production might be a source of human drug-resistant yeast infections, including Candida spp. The limited data concerning the antifungal susceptibility of poultry Candida isolates prompted us to carry out research to determine the susceptibility of isolates from turkey intestinal tracts.

Method and Materials

The beak cavity, crop and cloaca were swabbed of 580 turkeys from 58 flocks in western Poland. The susceptibility tests were conducted using the E-test method with amphotericin B, fluconazole, itraconazole, and voriconazole on 52 isolates of C. albicans, C. catenulata, C. glabrata, C. palmioleophila, C. rugosa, C. krusei and C. lusitaniae.

Results

All isolates were susceptible to voriconazole. According to the MIC values obtained for amphotericin B and fluconazole, all Candida spp. isolates were classified as susceptible according to the described breakpoints except for C. krusei, which was the only isolate that was amphotericin B-, fluconazole- and itraconazole-resistant. The susceptibility to itraconazole varied: 11 of the Candida isolates were susceptible (21.1%), 29 were dose-dependently susceptible (55.8%), and 12 isolates were resistant (23.1%).

Conclusion

There are few resistant strains of Candida in turkeys, and the drug resistance varies. When Candida passes from turkeys to humans, there is a wide range of antifungal treatment options.
Nutritional and care problems in infants with lactose intolerance
Authors: Tułacz Kinga , Rozensztrauch Anna , Berghausen-Mazur Marta
Published: November 2020

Aim. The purpose of the paper was to learn about nursing and nutritional problems in children with lactose intolerance.

Material and methods. The study included a group of 343 parents, 320 (93.3%) women and 23 (6.7%) men. A self-written questionnaire containing 27 questions was used for the study. The comparison of responses in the groups was performed using the chi-square test or the Fisher’s exact test where the expected low rates appeared in the tables. The analysis was performed in the R software, version 4.0.2.

Results. The most common symptoms affecting the respondents’ children were: abdominal pain (77.3%), abdominal distension (73.5%), overflow in the abdomen (49%), and mucus-mixed stools (45.5%). The symptoms caused the child’s anxiety during sleep in 52.5%, problems with attaching to the breast in 30.3%, and buttocks burns in 23.9%. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant relationship between education and age and the source from which the respondents obtained information on lactose intolerance (p<0.05). Statistical analysis showed that the financial situation had no effect on calcium supplementation in breastfeeding women while on a lactose-free diet (p>0.05). It is worth noting, however, that only 10.5% of the respondents declared calcium supplementation while on a lactose-free diet.

Conclusions. It is important to confirm the diagnosis with an examination, as an incorrect diagnosis may lead to a number of problems without obtaining the desired effect. In children with symptoms of lactose intolerance, meeting the daily calcium requirement is essential.
Clinical and volumetric predictors of local control after robotic stereotactic radiosurgery for cerebral metastases: active systemic disease may affect local control in the brain
Authors: Blamek Sławomir , Stankiewicz Magdalena , Maciejewski Bogusław
Published: November 2020

Background

The aim of the study was to assess the association between physical and biological dose normalized to volume of the metastatic tumor as well as clinical factors with local control in patients with brain metastases who underwent robotic stereotactic radiosurgery.

Patients and methods

A cohort of 69 patients consecutively treated with robotic radiosurgery between 2011 and 2016 was analyzed. The patients were treated with either single fraction radiosurgery or hypofractionated regimens. Biologically effective dose (BED) was calculated assuming alpha/beta value = 10 and both physical dose and BED were normalized to the tumor volume to allow dose-volume effect evaluation. Moreover, clinical and treatment-related variables were evaluated to asses association with local control.

Results

A total of 133 tumors were irradiated and their volumes ranged between 0.001 and 46.99 cm3. Presence of extracranial progression was associated with worse local control whereas higher total dose, BED10 > 59 Gy and single metastasis predicted statistically significantly better local outcome. BED10/cm3 > 36 Gy, and BED2 > 60 Gy negatively affected local control in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis performed on all these variables, presence of a single metastasis, BED10 > 59 Gy and extracranial progression retained their significance. Excluding a priori the BED2/ cm3 parameter resulted with a Cox model confirming significance of all remaining variables.

Conclusions

Hypofractionated treatment schemes have similar efficiency to single fraction treatment in terms of local control and the effect depends on BED irrespective of fractionation schedule. Effective control of extracranial sites of the disease is associated with higher probability of local control in the brain which in turn is consistently lower in patients with multiple lesions.
Surgical resection of synchronous liver metastases in gastric cancer patients. A propensity score-matched study
Authors: Jagric Tomaz , Horvat Matjaz
Published: November 2020

Background

The aim of the study was to determine the value of synchronous liver resection in patients with oligo-metastatic gastric cancer and the prognostic factors in these patients.

Patients and methods

We compared the results of 21 gastric patients with liver metastases and synchronous liver resection (LMR) to 21 propensity score-matched patients with gastric cancer and liver metastases in whom liver resection was not performed (LM0) and to a propensity score-matched control group of 21 patients without liver metastases and stage III and IV resectable gastric cancer (CG).

Results

The overall 5-year survival of LMR, LM0 and CG were 14.3%, 0%, and 19%, respectively (p = 0.002). Five-year survival was 47.5% for well-differentiated tumour compared to 0% in patients with moderate or poor tumour differentiation (p = 0.006). In addition, patients with R0 resection and TNM stage N0–1 had a significantly better survival compared to patients with TNM N stage N2–3 (5-year survival: 60% for N0–1 vs. 7.7% for N2–3; p = 0.007).

Conclusions

The results presented in the study support synchronous liver resections in gastric patients and provide additional criteria for patient selection.
The Role of TLR-4 and Galectin-3 Interaction in Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Stojanovic Milica Dimitrijevic , Stojanovic Bojan , Arsenijevic Nebojsa , Stojanovic Bojana
Published: November 2020

Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) is a member of evolutionarily conserved type I transmembrane proteins that can initiate sterile inflammatory cascade in the pancreas. Expression of TLR-4 is up-regulated in pancreatic tissue, as well as, on peripheral blood innate immune cells in human and experimental models of acute pancreatitis. TLR-4 plays important pro-inflammatory roles during development of acute pancreatitis: it recognize alarmins released from injured acinar cells and promotes activation and infiltration of innate immune cells after the premature and intraacinar activation of tripsinogen. Galectin-3 is β-galactoside-binding lectin that plays pro-inflammatory roles in a variety autoimmune diseases, acute bacterial infections and during tumorigenesis. It is reported that Galectin-3 is alarmin in experimental models of neuroinflammation and binds to TLR-4 promoting the pro-inflammatory phenotype of microglia. Also, in experimental model of acute pancreatitis Galectin-3 is colocalized with TLR-4 on innate inflammatory cells resulted in enhanced production of inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1β, increased infiltration of pro-inflammatory N1 neutrophils, macrophages and dendritic cells and increased damage of pancreatic tissue. This review paper discusses the role of TLR-4/Gal-3 axis in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis.
The production of flame retardant paper with DOPO
Authors:   Marmara University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Istanbul, Turkey, Birtane Hatice
Published: November 2020

Flame retardant property to paper increases the use of paper and the value of paper products. The flame retardant property was achieved by the addition of an organophosphorus agent to the paper. A great deal of research has been done on 9,10-Dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) derivatives as flame retardants. To apply the flame retardant property in condensed phase, DOPO derivative materials are generally used as an acid source for intumescent flame retardants to promote dehydration and carbonization of the charring agent to form a continuous layer of carbon. In this study, In order to prepare a flame retardant paper coating, DOPO derivative was synthesized with 3-aminophenyl sulfone, and benzaldehyde reaction and the chemical structure of DOPO is illuminated by ATR-FTIR then paper was coating with a flame retardant coating formulation ingredient with DOPO. The paper’s properties were investigated. Surface energy of coated papers and contact angles were determined with goniometer. Printability parameters such as color, gloss, surface tension were examined. The results the study DOPO added paper coatings improve the paper flame retardancy.
Packaging paper coated with PLA
Authors:   University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, Department of Textiles, Graphic Arts and Design, Chair of Information and Graphic Arts Technology, Ljubljana, Slovenia, Gregor-Svetec Diana , Šumrada Tadeja ,   University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, Department of Textiles, Graphic Arts and Design, Chair of Information and Graphic Arts Technology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Published: November 2020

Nowadays, eco-design of products is becoming one of the most important directions at packaging development. Efficient use of materials, use of materials from renewable sources, design for recycling and reuse are especially important. In our research, we were interested in the development of sustainable, biodegradable protective paper packaging. In order to make packaging resistant against water, paper was coated with a biodegradable biopolymer, instead of using synthetic polymer. The base packaging paper was coated with a PLA solution, which was obtained by dissolving PLA pellets in dichloromethane. Two different concentrations were used. Technological and surface properties of coated paper were determined. The results of analyses have shown that sustainable packaging paper with good surface properties and barrier against water can be obtained by coating it with a PLA solution. Comparison with a commercial packaging paper has shown, that for PLA coated paper even higher water resistance was obtained.
Compensation of defects in printing process with histogram methods
Authors:   Moscow Polytechnic University, Faculty of Information Technology, Moscow, Russia, Pukhova Ekaterina , Vereshchagin Vladislav ,   Moscow Polytechnic University, Faculty of Information Technology, Moscow, Russia
Published: November 2020

A method of image preparation for printing reproduction is suggested. This method allows to automatically compensate transformations that occur during reproduction, by analyzing a histogram of test chart image and based on it, creating a compensation pre-correction function. It also takes into consideration the visual perception of images. Pre-correction function is applied to images at the prepress stage after all other corrections. It is aimed to compensate defects, occurring at the printing stage, caused by the process of tone value increase and restriction of tonal range reproduction. It is suggested to use a test chart, which is a gradient with an even increase of lightness in the range from 0 to 255. After printing the test chart its digital image is created by scanning. Then Gaussian filter is applied to the image with parameters according to the visual perception, and lightness distribution histogram is calculated. This histogram will have changes in lightness distribution in comparison with the original digital image. These changes will correspond to the influence of tone value increasing process during printing. The cumulative sum is calculated from the received histogram, and the pre-correction is being formed. And this precorrection applies to an image, prepared for printing in similar conditions as test chart. The algorithm was written on Python and allows to create a pre-correction using a press sheet with the test chart. It is shown that the use of the suggested method gives a positive result and doesn’t require expensive measurement equipment. Having a scanner calibrated for linear transmission of lightness and developed programming module is enough. This method was tested on electrographic printing equipment on three different types of paper. Statistic parameters of a histogram, such as mean, standard deviation and the Skewness, were used for evaluation. It is shown that the suggested method can be used as part of an automatized system based on histogram methods for image preparation before printing.
Investigation on the printability of specialty papers for luxury labels
Authors:   University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, Department of Pulp, Paper and Printing art, Sofia, Bulgaria, Todorova Dimitrina , Pavlova Nevena ,   Rotoprint, Industrialna zona, Ravno pole, Bulgaria
Published: November 2020

Specialty luxury label papers mainly are results from the search for all that stimulates our creativity and senses. They are from papers that awaken the desire to create, as a magnificent mix of texture and colours that elevates luxury packaging to the category of art and a brilliant collection that ultimately shows that luxury packaging really is. In order to achieve the desired complex effect on the customer with its combined impact through the texture, colour of the paper and graphic design for each manufacturer of luxury labels, it is undoubtedly essential to be familiar with the printability of the paper used. The aim of the present work was to study the main properties of the commonly used papers for printing of self-adhesive labels, in view of their printability. It is especially important for the production, as well as for the awareness of the designers working in this field, to know the specifics of these papers, to know the main indicators influencing their printability, to know all the facts allowing the right choice of printing technology and finishing processes. To achieve this goal, various properties of five types of paper have been determined: structural-dimensional, physical-mechanical, capillary-hygroscopic and optical. In addition, with all paper analysis, a printing sample have been made with different types of printing (offset UV, flexo UV, screen, cold foil, hot foil, silk foil) and converting (emboss, laser cutting, laser engraving) techniques. Based on the obtained results, new designer labels for wine have been printed. The results show that there is a clear dependence between the paper composition, its main and specific properties and the quality of the different printing and finishing processes, as well as the overall appearance of the produced labels. The printing and finishing processes have been carried out in Rotoprint Printing House, Bulgaria and the obtained results could give a valuable information not only for the particular printing house, but for other specialists in the field of labels production.
The power of commemorative banknote design to support global and local events
Authors:   Higher Institute of Applied Arts, Department of Printing, Publishing and Packaging, New Cairo, Egypt, Khaled Ahmed Khloud
Published: November 2020

Commemorative banknotes are issued to commemorate some particular event or issue with a distinct design with reference to the occasion on which they were issued. In this paper the author explores another aspect to utilization commemorative banknote to promote and support Global and Local events, In addition to marketing historical, artistic, and sporting events, etc., sheds light on the most important international events the covid-19 Pandemic and the utilization of commemorative banknote to support the role of doctors in the world in to Commemorate their unique experience. Further, banknote artwork that captures a personal moment, emotion, memory or other poignant event that tells their story of the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition, the author elaborates on how Commemorative banknotes have a media role to promote important events and communicate the idea in a simple artistic manner. The author concludes that the power of commemorative banknote stems from their ability to enhance the global participation in crises and disasters, through design a global limited edition unified model of banknote In accordance with each country.
Designing parterres on the main city squares
Authors:   University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Novi Sad, Serbia, Lakićević Milena , Simić Ivona ,   University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Novi Sad, Serbia, Kolarov Radenka ,   University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Novi Sad, Serbia
Published: November 2020

A “parterre” is a word originating from the French, with the meaning interpreted as “on the ground”. Nowadays, this term is widely used in landscape architecture terminology and depicts a groundlevel space covered by ornamental plant material. The designing parterres are generally limited to the central city zones and entrances to the valuable architectonic objects, such as government buildings, courts, museums, castles, villas, etc. There are several main types of parterres set up in France, during the period of baroque, and the most famous one is the parterre type “broderie” with the most advanced styling pattern. Nowadays, French baroque parterres are adapted and communicate with contemporary landscape design styles, but some traits and characteristics of originals are still easily recognizable. In this paper, apart from presenting a short overview of designing parterres in general, the main focus is based on designing a new parterre on the main city square in the city of Bijeljina in the Republic of Srpska. The design concept relies on principles known in the history of landscape art but is, at the same time, adjusted to local conditions and space purposes. The paper presents the current design of the selected zone – parterre on the main city square in Bijeljina and proposes a new design strongly influenced by the “broderie” type of parterre. For creating a new design proposal we have used the following software AutoCad (for 2D drawings) and Realtime Landscaping Architect (for more advanced presentations and 3D previews). The paper provides detailed graphical representations for a new design proposal and explains the main design ideas and guidelines which can be applied even when designing parterres in the other urban space. Besides that, the paper lists the plant material that is suitable for establishing and maintaining parterres in the urban environment.
Visualization of the process-resource model for workflows
Authors:   Stuttgart Media University, Stuttgart, Germany, Hoffman-Walbeck Thomas , Adams II Richard ,   Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada
Published: November 2020

We describe the design of a JavaScript prototype that allows the user to visualize an arbitrary production workflow for print production that is based on the Process-Resource Model. The user can create square cards of type “process,” “resource” or “resource group.” For each card, a name might be chosen out of a list and neighboring relations can be set (input and output). Each card should be positioned on a fixed grid. Finally, the user can check the workflow design according to different reasoning.
Use of codecs in video uploads
Authors:   University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, Department of Textiles, Graphis Arts and Design, Chair of Information and Graphic Arts Technology, Ljubljana, Slovenia, Učakar Andrej , Selič Patricija ,   University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, Department of Textiles, Graphis Arts and Design, Chair of Information and Graphic Arts Technology, Ljubljana, Slovenia, Urbas Raša ,   University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, Department of Textiles, Graphis Arts and Design, Chair of Information and Graphic Arts Technology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Published: November 2020

In recent decades, linear communication has largely been replaced by visual depictions that contain not only moving images but also sound, text and other (visible or invisible) data. It is therefore not surprising that video has become so popular, especially among young people. So-called multimedia communication is transmitted via a variety of media. Since there are many ways and means of transmission, we wanted to investigate how the type of encoding that allows efficient file reduction affects the characteristics of the video format. For this purpose, we encoded selected videos using the three most common encoding mechanisms H.264/AVC, MPEG-2 and H.265/HEVC at high and medium bitrate. The newly created video files were then uploaded to three popular platforms – Instagram, YouTube and Gmail. Changes in file size, colour gamut, frame and bitrate, resolution and other visually recognizable details are presented in the paper.
Instrumental analysis of some anti-ulcer drugs in different matrices
Authors:   Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt, Elbaramawi Samar S. , El-Sadek Mohamed E. ,   Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt, Baraka Mohamed M. ,   Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt, Abdel-Aziz Lobna M. ,   Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt, Sebaiy Mahmoud Mohammed ,   Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
Published: November 2020

In this literature review, we will introduce most reported methods that have been developed for determination of certain anti-ulcer drugs such as Ranitidine hydrochloride, Famotidine, Omeprazole, Pantoprazole sodium, Tinidazole and Doxycycline hyclate in their pure form, combined form with other drugs, combined form with degradation products, and in biological samples.
ANALYSIS OF SUSTAINABLE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT BASED ON THE POTENTIAL WATER AVAILABILITY IN THE SEMI-ARID AREA OF KUPANG, INDONESIA
Authors: Koan Marlin A , Messakh Jakobis Johanis , P Soetedjo IN
Published: November 2020

Aims: This study discusses water resources management based on water discharge potential of the Oebobo-Liliba watershed in Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Methodology and Results: River water discharge was analyzed based on hydrological data of a span of 10-years. Average rainfall was calculated using the arithmetic mean method, and potential evapotranspiration (ETo) was calculated through Penman Modification with CROPWAT 8.0. The discharge analysis was conducted through a Mock method. Change in land cover was rendered using related land maps from year 2008 and 2018. Management of agricultural land was discussed through a descriptive analysis. The results showed an average monthly discharge of 0.667 m3/sec. The need for clean water is rendered to be 170 liters/person/day, and the discharge requirement of 90% = 281 liters/sec is concluded to be able to meet the community's clean water needs which amounts to 142,569 people. The total area of paddy fields is 5.38 Ha with water requirements of 1.5 liter/sec/ha, where 80% or 348 Liter/sec can be used to irrigate 232 hectares of paddy. Further results show that land cover in dryland forests decreased from 15% to 10%, settlements increased from 20% to 49%, and shrubs diminished from 20% to 0%. Conclusion, significance and impact study: The minimum debit trend shows a declining trend, while the maximum discharge trend shows an inclining trend. This research concludes that water discharge is adequate to meet community needs yet requires proper water resources management strategy from upstream to downstream of the watershed.
The preventive measures adopted during dental practice by the dentists in a low-income country to prevent the transmission of COVID-19: A questionnaire-based survey
Authors: Shihabi Safaa , Nesser Salma Al , Hamadah Omar
Published: November 2020

Objectives:

A novel coronavirus was first proclaimed in Hubei province, China, 213 countries worldwide also became an epicenter of the virus until June 17, 2020. The dental team has a high risk of infection as a result of the specificity of their procedures. The aim of this questionnaire was to estimate the preventive measures and the awareness methods that may be adopted by the dentists to prevent or reduce the transmission of COIVD-19.

Material and Methods:

The questionnaire was an electronic survey contained 23 questions, which were designed based on the instruction given for dental setting by CDC during COVID-19 pandemic; the respondents in this study were dental practitioners in Syria.

Results:

A total of 1013 dentists have responded to this survey 61% of the participants treated only the emergent treatment, 84% of them wear facial masks, while the prevalence for other protective equipment was low. The majority of the participants schedule the appointments as there is only one patient in the waiting room. More than half of the dentists sterilize the patients’ hands before and after the dental treatment, and 59% of them choose 70% ethyl alcohol as a disinfectant. Most of the respondents use dental mouthwashes before the initiation of the treatment. Almost three-quarters of the dentists use high vacuum. Only 15% of dentists sterilize the dental handpieces in the autoclaves after each patient. Most of dentists educate their patients about preventive methods.

Conclusion:

Based on these results, the Syrian dentists should take more strict measures during dental practice.
Competency Level of last year medical students about Basic Medicine Practices in Medical Education
Authors: OKTAY Cem , ŞENOL Yeşim , ENGİN Salahi , ŞİMŞEK Türkay
Published: November 2020

Background: Competency is the knowledge, skills, ability, and behaviors or capacities that a person possesses to perform tasks correctly and skillfully. Competency is an important criterion for medical students. “Basic Medical Practices” (BMP) are among the core components of the National Core Education Program (NCEP). These domains have four levels of learning. This study aims to evaluate the competencies in “BMP” domains of final year medical students’ who could complete almost 9-month of education on site before the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Method: The final year medical students who completed 9 months of internship during the 2019-2020 academic year constitute the sample group at Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine. The students were asked to self evaluate their competency levels of the BMP stated in NCEP-2020. Self-evaluated competency levels are compared based on receiving in-clinic versus online education. For the analysis of the study chi-squared test is used. Results: 262 students filled out the questionnaire. The difference between self-evaluated competency levels of specific practices pertaining to Forensic Medicine, Psychiatry, and Obstetrics and Gynecology specialties were found to be statistically significant between the students who completed the clerkships and those who did not (p<0,05). When the total of the skills in NCEP-2020 is reviewed, it is seen that there is a loss of being able to do after graduation about 25%.
Conclusion: The study showed that some of the medical students were not sufficient for primary health care services according to the fundamental medical skills defined in the NCEP-2020. It is necessary to investigate which skills are inadequate and the reasons of the inadequacy. Although the students are feeling confident in many skills, it is noted that making adjustments in the education system, the core education program, and the healthcare system is necessary.