bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
El bien común en la esfera de la teología, la ética y la moral social
Authors: Novoa Matallana Carlos Justino , Sierra González Santiago Andrés
Published: March 2019

Este artículo busca explicitar la noción de bien común desde los desarrollos de la ética social como instrumento para el teólogo moral, que intenta establecer la relación entre la fe y la vida pública. En la arena de la discusión pública y de la teología moral, se develan profundas relaciones entre los documentos eclesiales, el Evangelio y las ciencias humanas. Estos diálogos pueden ser puestos al servicio del mundo actual, en una perspectiva ética, de respeto y de construcción de soluciones comunes.
The Role and Potential of 3D Echocardiography in the Assessment of Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Apor Astrid , Nagy Anikó , Nagy Andrea , Merkely Béla
Published: March 2019

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is the most commonly found valvular lesion in echocardiography laboratories. Moderate and severe mitral regurgitation have proven to be associated with increased morbidity and mortality, and surgical reconstruction is recommended in severe cases whenever feasible. Three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) is superior to conventional echocardiography in the detailed assessment of the specific anatomical features and the pathomechanism of MR, and in the accurate grading of its severity. 3DE is adept in detecting and quantifying geometric distortion of the mitral annulus and analysing valve mechanics. Segmental analysis of leaflet pathology is considerably facilitated and quantification software packages offer new parameters for tailored surgical repair techniques. Direct visualization of the anatomic regurgitant orifice and calculations of the effective regurgitant orifice area by 3D color Doppler techniques promise to circumvent the limitations of conventional echocardiography in the quantification of mitral regurgitation.
Diagnostics of lithic discontinuity of soils based on fractal properties of coarse/fine-related distribution
Authors: Yakovenko V. M. , Kotovich A. V.
Published: March 2019

In the study of soil genesis and the determination of their systematic position, the diagnosis of the lithological heterogeneity of the parent rock is important. In the World Reference Base of Soil Resources (IUSS Working Group WRB 2015) lithological heterogeneity is defined as significant changes in the particle size or mineralogical composition, which reflect the lithological differences within the soil profile and a number of diagnostic criteria for lithological heterogeneity are given. At the level of soil microstructure, these are the characteristics of the relative distribution of coarse and fine particles of the solid phase (c/f relative distribution). Using the example of forest soils formed on colluvial sediments, we consider the possibility of using the fractal properties of the c/f relative distribution to diagnose the lithological heterogeneity of the genetic profile of the soil and establish the contrast of such heterogeneity. A micromorphological study of the soils formed on the parent rocks of loamy and clay granulometric composition reveals the fractal structure of the relative distribution of coarse and fine particles, which is the quantitative and qualitative characteristic of the solid phase and is not recognized by the particle size analysis. In the study with different magnifications, the multilevel structure of the c/f of the relative distribution is manifested in the possibility of selecting not one, but several c/f thresholds with corresponding characteristics for each. It is important that the overall picture of the microstructure at each level of the c/f of the relative distribution is similar to the picture at other levels. The algorithm for studying the fractal properties of the relative distribution is made up of successive stages: revealing the presence of the fractal structure of the c/f relative distribution; determination of similarity levels; determination of the morphometric parameters of the relative distribution at each of the revealed levels of similarity, which include the c/f threshold, the dimension of the coarse fraction, c/f ratio. An additional parameter is the spatial distribution of coarse particles at each level. The studied forest soils of the Prysamaria are characterized by a three-level fractal structure of the organization of the relative distribution of the granulometric elements of the microstructure. At each of the levels of relative distribution, the pattern of microstructure is similar to the levels highlighted in other scales. It was revealed that the profile of Luvic Chernic Phaeozem on the slope of the beam is lithologically inhomogeneous. Subsoil horizons outside the genetic profile of the soil differ in morphometric parameters at the second and third levels of the relative distribution of coarse and fine particles.
Assessing gene action for hypoxia tolerance in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Hussain Altaf , Ullah Zafar Zafar , Athar Habib-Ur-Rehman , Farooq Jehanzeb , Ahmad Saghir , Nazeer Wajad
Published: March 2019

Introduction. The inheritance studies on hypoxia tolerance in cotton are very scanty. Objective. The objective of this work was to study the inheritance pattern of seed cotton yield, ginning out-turn, and fiber length under normal and hypoxia conditions. Materials and Methods. An 8•8 diallel mating system was employed in F1 generation of cotton. The experiment was conducted during the years 2011-2012 at Cotton Research Institute, Multan, Pakistan. Results. Analysis of variance revealed significant variation (P<0.01) for all the traits under both non-stress and flooding stress conditions. The value of regression coefficient b deviated significantly from zero but not from unity for all the traits which enabled further analysis of the data. The additive component (D) was significant for all the traits and this has more values than the values of dominance components H1 and H2, which clearly indicates the preponderance of additive genetic effects. Under normal and hypoxia conditions the estimates of narrow sense heritability were higher. Conclusion. Predominance of additive genetic effects, high heritability along with partial dominance under both conditions suggested that selection for these traits under hypoxic environment at early generation will be useful.
Sustitución del pasto Megathyrsus maximus por guineo cuadrado y urea en mezclas ensiladas
Authors: López-Herrera Michael Jesús , Rojas-Bourrillon Augusto , Briceño-Arguedas Ernesto
Published: March 2019

Introducción. Los pastos tropicales poseen mayor contenido de fibra en proporción con otros nutrientes, esto limita el consumo de materia seca por parte de los rumiantes. El uso de aditivos en el ensilaje permite optimizar el contenido nutricional en los forrajes que pueden conservarse para utilizarlos en momentos de menor disponibilidad forrajera. Objetivo. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el efecto de sustituir en ensilados, porcentajes de pasto Megathyrsus maximus cv Mombaza por fruto inmaduro de guineo cuadrado (Musa ABB) y urea. Materiales y métodos. El experimento se desarrolló entre agosto y diciembre de 2016. Se utilizó un diseño factorial con ocho tratamientos. Las mezclas se almacenaron durante sesenta días en bolsas de 5,0 kg. Resultados. El uso de fruto de guineo cuadrado produjo incremento del pH, el nitrógeno amoniacal, y la urea. El fruto también aumentó la concentración de materia seca y carbohidratos no fibrosos, esto mejoró el valor relativo del forraje y el contenido de energía. La urea mejoró en diez unidades porcentuales el contenido de proteína cruda, debido a su aporte de nitrógeno no proteico. El contenido de energía de los tratamientos varió entre 59,5 y 63,6%TND, y la mayor energía se obtuvo en los tratamientos con mayor uso de fruto de guineo cuadrado. Conclusión. Los ensilados con 30% de sustitución con fruto de guineo cuadrado y 0,5 - 1,0% de urea, se pueden considerar una alternativa para alimentación de rumiantes, como complemento de una dieta balanceada.
In Reply
Authors: Martin-Broto Javier , Hindi Nadia
Published: March 2019

Authors of the recently published article from the Spanish Group for Research in Sarcoma respond to comments on the results of their study.
Development and characterization of Al–Ni and nanographite electrodes for energy storage
Authors: Paul Subir , Kumar Tanuj
Published: March 2019

Development new batteries is a research thrust to meet the global demand for storage energy. An aluminum (Al)-ion battery, similar to a lithium (Li)-ion battery, but with a lower manufacturing cost, was investigated, modifying the aluminum foil with nickel (Ni) coating to act as an anode, and graphite coated with nanographite powder acting as a cathode. The base electrolyte aluminum chloride (AlCl3) was modified by using additives, namely sodium chloride (NaCl), indium (III) chloride (InCl3) and mercury (II) chloride (HgCl2). The developed electrodes were electrochemically characterized by cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and potentiodynamic polarization, while the constituents and morphology were examined by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. It was found that the nanographite powder produced a higher current density and more energy compared to the solid graphite electrode. The aluminum–nickel electrode acted as a more efficient electrode compared to the pure aluminum one, giving a much higher current during electro-oxidation. The effect of electrolyte additives such as sodium chloride, indium (III) chloride and mercury (II) chloride made the polarization resistance lower and the current higher. An electrolyte composition of 0·075 M aluminum chloride + 2 M sodium chloride + 4 M indium (III) chloride + 5 M mercury (II) chloride produced the highest current density and energy.
Rapidos DOI
Authors: Silva Adriana
Published: March 2019

asdsdfasdf
Encrypted Data Transmission Model For Ethernet LANs
Authors: KOÇAK Cemal , DURAK Murat
Published: March 2019

Despite many research and development efforts in the field of data
communication security, the security of the local area network (LAN's) is still
not fully resolved. In this work, we proposed a model of encryption of the data
field in the Ethernet frame to create secure Ethernet LANs. In this model, the
data field in the Ethernet frame is encrypted and sent to the destination. The
1500-byte data field, defined as the standard for the Ethernet frame, is
divided into 1497 bytes as the field used for the data. The remaining 2-bytes
are defined as Message Body Length (MBL) and 1-byte as Message Number (MN). The
message number is used to verify the encrypted data and the MBL is used for the
length of the message. The proposed model provides secure data communication
over Ethernet local area networks. With this model, safe data communication is
provided on the Ethernet LAN. Even if attackers obtain the packet at the time
of communication, the encrypted message is difficult to decipher.
A New Procedure for Generating the Stochastic Simulations in FRB/US
Authors: Gonzalez-Astudillo Manuel , Vilan Diego
Published: March 2019

This note summarizes a new procedure for generating stochastic simulations in FRB/US, a large-scale estimated general equilibrium macroeconomic model of the U.S. economy, which has been in use at the Federal Reserve Board since 1996. In the first part of this note, we contrast some features of the original stochastic simulations procedure with those of the data. In the second part, we offer an alternative to the original procedure that fits the data better along core dimensions of interest.
Test Questions, Economic Outcomes, and Inequality
Authors: Nielsen Eric
Published: March 2019

Standard achievement scales aggregate test questions without considering their relationship to economic outcomes. This paper uses question-level data to improve the measurement of achievement in two ways. First, the paper constructs alternative achievement scales by relating individual questions directly to school completion and labor market outcomes. Second, the paper leverages the question data to construct multiple such scales in order to correct for biases stemming from measurement error. These new achievement scales rank students differently than standard scales and typically yield achievement gaps by race, gender, and household income that are larger by 0.1 to 0.5 standard deviations. Differential performance on test questions can fully explain black-white differences in both wages and lifetime earnings and can explain roughly half of the difference in these outcomes between youth from high- versus low-income households. By contrast, test questions do not explain gender differences in labor market outcomes.
Understanding Persistent Stagnation
Authors: Cuba-Borda Pablo A. , Singh Sanjay R.
Published: March 2019

We theoretically explore long-run stagnation at the zero lower bound in a representative agent framework. We analytically compare expectations-driven stagnation to a secular stagnation episode and find contrasting policy implications for changes in government spending, supply shocks and neo-Fisherian policies. On the other hand, a minimum wage policy is expansionary and robust to the source of stagnation. Using Bayesian methods, we estimate a DSGE model that can accommodate two competing hypotheses of long-run stagnation in Japan. We document that equilibrium selection under indeterminacy matters in accounting for model fit.
A concepção de tutores a distância sobre interatividade e a formação em EaD: um estudo de caso
Authors: Bento Luiz , De Sousa Nascimento Milena , Grenha Viviane , Macedo Margarete Valverde
Published: March 2019

Este trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar a concepção que os tutores a distância de um curso de graduação têm sobre interatividade e a relação dessa concepção com sua forma- ção específica em EaD e com sua prática na tutoria. Para poder entender esta problemá- tica, foi enviado um questionário para tutores a distância do curso de Licenciatura em Ciências Biológicas de um consórcio de instituições públicas para oferta de cursos de graduação na modalidade EaD do estado do Rio de Janeiro. Ao todo, 20 tutores a distância responderam a todas as perguntas presentes no questionário, sendo amostrado um total de 12 disciplinas diferentes. Através da aná- lise da resposta dos tutores a distância, o presente estudo pode concluir que uma alta formação acadêmica pode não necessariamente representar um conhecimento específico sobre aspectos relacionados à EaD e que cursos de formação específicos sobre Educação a Distância são importantes para uma melhor formação dos tutores como promotores da interatividade.
Isoflurane exposure in infant rats acutely increases aquaporin 4 and does not cause neurocognitive impairment
Authors: Demirgan Serdar , Akyol Onat , Temel Zeynep , Şengelen Aslıhan , Pekmez Murat , Demirgan Recep , Sevdi Mehmet Salih , Erkalp Kerem , Selcan Ayşin
Published: March 2019

Isoflurane is commonly used in pediatric population, but its mechanism of action in cognition is unclear. Aquaporin 4 (AQP4) regulates water content in blood, brain, and cerebrospinal fluid. Various studies have provided evidence for the role of AQP4 in synaptic plasticity and neurocognition. In this study, we aimed to determine whether a prolonged exposure to isoflurane in infant rats is associated with cognition and what effect this exposure has on AQP4 expression. Ten-day-old [postnatal day (P) 10] Wistar albino rats were randomly allocated to isoflurane group (n = 32; 1.5% isoflurane in 50% oxygen for 6 hours) or control group (n = 32; only 50% oxygen for 6 hours). Acute (P11) and long-term (P33) effects of 6-hour anesthetic isoflurane exposure on AQP4 expression were analyzed in whole brains of P11 and P33 rats by RT-qPCR and Western blot. Spatial learning and memory were assessed on P28 to P33 days by Morris Water Maze (MWM) test. The analysis revealed that isoflurane increased acutely both mRNA (~4.5 fold) and protein (~90%) levels of AQP4 in P11 rats compared to control group. The increasing levels of AQP4 in P11 were not observed in P33. Also, no statistically significant change between isoflurane and control groups was observed in the latency to find the platform during MWM training and probe trial. Our results indicate that a single exposure to isoflurane anesthesia does not influence cognition in infant rats. In this case, acutely increased AQP4 after isoflurane anesthesia may have a protective role in neurocognition.
Preparation and Characterization of Green Epoxy Resin Composites and Its Use in Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Hassan Faris Abbas
Published: March 2019

In this work, appropriate alternative for diglycidyl ether bisphenol A (DGEBA) was found to avoid the destructive effects of bisphenol A. Lignin, an aromatic compound from palm tree leaves, was used as a renewable material to synthesize a bio-based epoxy resin. Lignin extracted using Kraft pulping process. Kraft Lignin was epoxidized with epichlorohydrin in alkaline medium. Nano-titanium dioxide was used as filler with ratio of 10% to prepare the green epoxy composite. The structure of the Kraft lignin and lignin-based epoxy resin was proven via Infrared spectra (FT-IR) were recorded using solid KBr disk by testing Shimadzu (FT-IR-8300) spectrophotometer. The thermal properties of the curing process of lignin-based epoxy resin and composite were investigate using Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. Potentiodynamic measurements data revealed that the anti-corrosion performance of the lignin based epoxy resin. The study demonstrates successful of epoxidation of Kraft lignin. In addition, lignin based eopxy resin showed effective inhibitor for carbon steel in 3.5 wt. % NaCl electrolyte solutions
A study of serum lipid profile in smokers and non-smokers: evaluation of role of smoking on lipid profile
Authors: Kubihal Chandrashekar V. , Naik Hemalatha D.
Published: March 2019

Background: Several studies have reported elevated blood cholesterol levels among persons who regularly smoke cigarettes and lowered blood cholesterol levels among persons quitting smoking. Other studies have also shown that smoking lowers high density lipoprotein level, resulting in an increased risk of coronary heart disease. Smoking also leads to increase in LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The objective was to study serum lipid profile in smokers and non-smokers.Methods: A cross sectional comparative study was carried in 100 subjects. The subjects were divided into two groups. First group consisted of 25 nonsmokers and second group of 75 smokers. The group of 75 smokers was again divided into three equal sub groups of 25 each depending upon the duration and intensity of smoking. Concentration of serum total cholesterol and HDL was determined by Zak’s method. Concentration of serum LDL and VLDL cholesterol was determined by Friedwald’s formula. Concentration of serum triglyceride level was determined by enzymatic end point peroxidase coupled method.Results: All the values of lipid profile i.e., total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL were found to be significantly higher among the smokers compared to the non-smokers. HDL value was significantly lower among smokers. As the degree of smoking increased from mild to heavy smokers, the values of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and VLDL increased. The degree of smoking was inversely proportional to HDL values i.e., the HDL value decreased as the smoking degree increased.Conclusions: Thus, it can be said based on the present study that smoking affects and deranges the lipid profile of the person.
Rapid-onset supraventricular tachycardia following clozapine initiation and its management with verapamil: a case report
Authors: Alwabili Afnan A.
Published: March 2019

Clozapine is the drug of choice for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. However, the use of clozapine is limited by its serious adverse effects, which often underlie its discontinuation. The cardiovascular side effects that raise safety concerns include tachycardia, myocarditis and cardiomyopathy. The development of clozapine-induced tachycardia is usually observed on higher dosage especially at early stages of treatment. Here, author presented the case of a patient with treatment-resistant schizophrenia who developed asymptotic supraventricular tachycardia despite low dose of clozapine at the second day of treatment. Additionally, author explored the possibility of clozapine re-challenge in combination with verapamil treatment.
Agrotóxicos e seus riscos em estabelecimentos comerciais na cidade de Sousa-PB
Authors: Honorato da Silva Lázaro Lavoisier , Do Nascimento Fernandes Pinto Érika , Batista Lucena Susana Cristina , Costa Bezerra Jônatas , De Lira Silva Yara Dayane
Published: March 2019

The current study aimed to recognize pesticides and their risks in commercial establishments in the city of SousaPB. A checklist was used to recognize the chemical risks caused by pesticides in commercial establishments, with emphasis on occupational hazards. With the aid of the FISPQ and the package leaflet, each pesticide was examined in terms of analyzes of the use, level of toxicity, adverse effects, as well ascontrol and safety measures.. The verification was done in 03 establishments whose experience varied from 05 to 20 years of experience in the area.. The sale of 27 types of pesticides, including insecticides or acaricides, herbicides and fungicides, has been identified. Sales are made based on the prescription of the professional agronomist who is the owner or partner of the enterprise. It was also verified that two companies do not collect or receive empty containers, but they have been helpful in providing technical assistance to rural producers who purchase pesticides. Therefore, as the absorption of the pesticides by the human body occurs through oral, dermal, inhalation and ocular routes, the combination between the engineering control measures and the correct use of the appropriate PPE is crucial.
Indirect inactivation of tyrosinase in its action on tyrosine.
Authors: Muñoz-Muñoz Jose Luis , Garcia-Molina Francisco , Acosta-Motos Jose Ramon , Arribas Enrique , Garcia-Ruíz Pedro Antonio , Tudela Jose , Garcia-Cánovas Francisco , Rodríguez-López Jose Neptuno
Published: March 2019

Under aerobic conditions, tyrosinase is inactivated by dopa as a result of suicide inactivation, and, under anaerobic conditions, as a result of irreversible inactivation. However, tyrosine protects the enzyme from being inactivated by dopa under anaerobic conditions. This paper describes how under aerobic conditions the enzyme acting on tyrosine is not directly inactivated but undergoes a process of indirect suicide inactivation provoked by reaction with the o-diphenol originated from the evolution of o-dopaquinone and accumulated in the reaction medium.
Direct interaction of Gas41 and Myc encoded by amplified genes in nervous system tumours.
Authors: Piccinni Eugenia , Chelstowska Anna , Hanus Jakub , Widlak Piotr , Loreti Simona , Tata Ada Maria , Augusti-Tocco Gabriella , Bianchi Michele Maria , Negri Rodolfo
Published: March 2019

In order to understand better the role of the human Tip60 complex component Gas41, we analysed its expression levels in brain tumours and searched for possible interactors. Two-hybrid screening of a human foetal brain library allowed identification of some molecular interactors of Gas41. Among them we found n-Myc transcription factor. The interaction between Gas41 and n-Myc was validated by pull-down experiments. We showed that Gas41 is able to bind both n-Myc and c-Myc proteins, and that the levels of expression of Gas41 and Myc proteins were similar to each other in such brain tumors as neuroblastomas and glioblastomas. Finally, in order to identify which region of Gas41 is involved in the interaction with Myc proteins, we analysed the ability of Gas41 to substitute for its orthologue Yaf9 in yeast; we showed that the N-terminal portions of the two proteins, containing the YEATS domains, are interchangeable, while the C-terminal portions are species-specific. In fact we found that Gas41 C-terminal portion is required for Myc protein interaction in human.
Distinct expression, localization and function of two Rab7 proteins encoded by paralogous genes in a free-living model eukaryote.
Authors: Osińska Magdalena , Wiejak Jolanta , Wypych Emilia , Bilski Henryk , Bartosiewicz Rafał , Wyroba Elżbieta
Published: March 2019

Rab7 GTPases are involved in membrane trafficking in the late endosomal/lysosomal pathway. In Paramecium octaurelia Rab7a and Rab7b are encoded by paralogous genes. Antipeptide antibodies generated against divergent C-termini recognize Rab7a of 22.5 kDa and Rab7b of 25 kDa, respectively. In 2D gel electrophoresis two immunoreactive spots were identified for Rab7b at pI about 6.34 and about 6.18 and only one spot for Rab7a of pI about 6.34 suggesting post-translational modification of Rab7b. Mass spectrometry revealed eight identical phosphorylated residues in the both proteins. ProQ Emerald staining and ConA overlay of immunoprecipitated Rab7b indicated its putative glycosylation that was further supported by a faster electrophoretic mobility of this protein upon deglycosylation. Such a post-translational modification and substitution of Ala(140) in Rab7a for Ser(140) in Rab7b may result in distinct targeting to the oral apparatus where Rab7b associates with the microtubular structures as revealed by STED confocal and electron microscopy. Rab7a was mapped to phagosomal compartment. Absolute qReal-Time PCR analysis revealed that expression of Rab7a was 2.6-fold higher than that of Rab7b. Upon latex internalization it was further 2-fold increased for Rab7a and only slightly for Rab7b. Post-transcriptional gene silencing of rab7a suppressed phagosome formation by 70 % and impaired their acidification. Ultrastructural analysis with double immunogold labeling revealed that this effect was due to the lack of V-ATPase recruitment to phagolysosomes. No significant phenotype changes were noticed in cells upon rab7b silencing. In conclusion, Rab7b acquired a new function, whereas Rab7a can be assigned to the phagolysosomal pathway.
Vitamin K status in peritoneally dialyzed patients with chronic kidney disease.
Authors: Stankowiak-Kulpa Hanna , Krzyżanowska Patrycja , Kozioł Lidia , Grzymisławski Marian , Wanic-Kossowska Maria , Moczko Jerzy , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: March 2019

Abnormal vitamin K status was documented in patients with chronic kidney diseases (CKD), especially those undergoing hemodialysis. The data related to patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) are contradictory. Therefore, in the present study we aimed to evaluate vitamin K status in patients with CKD who are treated with continuous ambulatory PD. Twenty-eight patients entered into the study. Dialysis vintage ranged from 3 to 89 months. Vitamin K status was assessed in all subjects using undercarboxylated prothrombin measurement (PIVKA-II). In addition, total protein and albumin levels, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglyceride, calcium, urea and creatinine concentrations were determined. PIVKA-II concentrations were abnormal in 13 (46.4 %) subjects. BMI values, both total and LDL cholesterol concentrations were significantly higher in patients with than those without vitamin K deficiency. Moreover, PIVKA II levels correlated with BMI values (r = 0.441, p < 0.019), LDL cholesterol (r = 0.434, p < 0.021) and creatinine (r = 0.406, p< 0.032) concentrations. However, through the use of logistic regression analysis and multiple regression analysis, no clinical factor was documented to be the independent risk factor of vitamin K deficiency. In conclusion, vitamin K deficiency is a frequent condition in peritoneally dialyzed patients. Assessment of vitamin K status should become a standard procedure in this group of patients.
Influence of 2,5-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone on jack bean urease activity. Inhibitory effect, total reducing capacity and DPPH radical scavenging activity.
Authors: Kot Mirosława , Olech Zofia
Published: March 2019

Inhibition of jack bean activity by 2,5-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone (DCBQ) was studied in phosphate buffer, pH 7.0. It was found that DCBQ acted as a strong, time and concentration dependent inactivator of urease. Under the experimental conditions obeyed the terms of pseudo-first-order reaction, urease was totally inactivated. Application of Wilson-Kitz method proved that the urease-DCBQ interaction followed a simple bimolecular process and the presence of intermediate complex was undetectable. The determined second order rate constant of the inactivation was 0.053 (μM min)(-1). Thiols such as l-cysteine, glutathione and dithiothreitol (DTT) protected urease from inhibition by DCBQ but DCBQ-modified urease did not regain its activity after DTT application. The thiol protective studies indicated an essential role of urease thiol(s) in the inhibition. The irreversibility of the inactivation showed that the process was a result of a direct modification of urease thiol(s) by DCBQ (DCBQ chlorine(s) substitution). The decomposition of DCBQ in aqueous solution at natural light exposure was monitored by visible spectrophotometry, determination of the total reducing capacity (Folin-Ciocalteu method) and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging ability. The DCBQ conversion resulted in a decrease of the inhibition power and was well correlated with the increase of the total reducing capacity and DPPH scavenging ability. These findings were attributed to DCBQ transformation by photolysis and the hydrolysis effect was found to be negligible.
Different statins produce highly divergent changes in gene expression profiles of human hepatoma cells: a pilot study.
Authors: Leszczynska Agata , Gora Monika , Plochocka Danuta , Hoser Grazyna , Szkopinska Anna , Koblowska Marta , Iwanicka-Nowicka Roksana , Kotlinski Maciej , Rawa Katarzyna , Kiliszek Marek , Burzynska Beata
Published: March 2019

Statins are inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR), the key enzyme of the sterol biosynthesis pathway. Statin therapy is commonly regarded as well tolerated. However, serious adverse effects have also been reported, especially during high-dose statin therapy. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of statins on gene expression profiles in human hepatoma HepG2 cells using Affymetrix Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 arrays. Expression of 102, 857 and 1091 genes was changed substantially in HepG2 cells treated with simvastatin, fluvastatin and atorvastatin, respectively. Pathway and gene ontology analysis showed that many of the genes with changed expression levels were involved in a broad range of metabolic processes. The presented data clearly indicate substantial differences between the tested statins.
Hepatoprotective effect of aqueous extract of Aframomum melegueta on ethanol-induced toxicity in rats.
Authors: Nwozo Sarah O , Oyinloye Babatunji E
Published: March 2019

In recent years there have been remarkable developments in the prevention of diseases, especially with regards to the role of free radicals and antioxidants. Ethanol-induced oxidative stress appears to be one mechanism by which ethanol causes liver injury. The protective effect of aqueous plant extract of Aframomum melegueta on ethanol-induced toxicity was investigated in male Wistar rats. The rats were treated with 45 % ethanol (4.8 g/kg b.w.t.) for 16 days to induce alcoholic diseases in the liver. The activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and triglyceride were monitored and the histological changes in liver examined in order to evaluate the protective effects of the plant extract. Hepatic malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione, as well as superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-transferase activities were determined for the antioxidant status. Chronic ethanol administration resulted in a statistically significant elevation of serum alanine aminotransferases and triglyceride levels, as well as a decrease in reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase which was dramatically attenuated by the co-administration of the plant extract. Histological changes were related to these indices. Co-administration of the plant extract suppressed the elevation of lipid peroxidation, restored the reduced glutathion, and enhanced the superoxide dismutase activity. These results highlight the ability of Aframomum melegueta to ameliorate oxidative damage in the liver and the observed effects are associated with its antioxidant activities.
Angiogenic factors and the risk of preeclampsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Veisani Yousef , Jenabi Ensiyeh , Delpisheh Ali , Khazaei Salman
Published: March 2019

Background: The etiological nature of preeclampsia is heterogeneous. The use of biomarkers indices in early pregnancy helps to have appropriate stratification of pregnancies into high- and low risk for the purpose of choosing timely interventions.
Objective: The aim of this systematic review was to determine the pathogenic role of soluble soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) inthe prediction of preeclampsia in women.
Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic search of the international databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until August 2017. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The primary outcome in this review was preeclampsia. The statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the X2 test and quantified by I2. Pooled effects size was obtained by random effects model. Subgroup  analyses were also carried out.
Results: Totally, 284 records were identified in the initial search and 15 records were finally included in the meta-analysis. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) for the association between the high level of sFlt-1 and low level of PlGF and subsequent development of preeclampsia among women were 5.20 (95% CI: 1.24–9.16) and 2.53 (95% CI: 1.33–3.75), respectively. The mean difference for sFlt-1 and PlGF in women with preeclampsia compared to controls was 1.15 (95% CI: 0.43–1.86) and –0.94 (95% CI: –1.37–0.52),respectively.
Conclusion: According to the results from this meta-analysis, increased levels of sFlt-1 and reduced levels of PlGF predict the subsequent development of preeclampsia.
Key words: Angiogenic factors, Preeclampsia, sFLT-1, PlGF.
First trimester determination of fetal gender by ultrasonographic measurement of anogenital distance: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Najdi Nazila , Safi Fatemeh , Hashemi-Dizaji Shahrzad , Sahraian Ghazal , Jand Yahya
Published: March 2019

Background: In some patients with a family history of the gender-linked disease, determination of the fetal gender in the first trimester of pregnancy is of importance. In X-linked recessive inherited diseases, only the male embryos are involved, while in some conditions, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, female embryos are affected; hence early determination of fetal gender is important.
Objective: The aim of the current study was to predict the gender of the fetus based on the accurate measurement of the fetal anogenital distance (AGD) by ultrasound in the first trimester.
Materials and Methods: To determine the AGD and crown-rump length in this cross-sectional study, 316 women with singleton pregnancies were exposed to ultrasonography. The results were then compared with definitive gender of the embryos after birth.
Results: The best cut-off for 11 wk to 11 wk, 6 days of pregnancy was 4.5 mm, for 12 wk to 12 wk, 6 days was 4.9 mm, and for 13 wk to 13 wk, 6 days was 4.8 mm.
Conclusion: AGD is helpful as an ultrasonographic marker that can determine fetal gender in the first trimester, especially after 12 wks.
Key words: Sonography, Gender, Female, Male, Pregnancy, First trimester.
From Midwifery to Maïeutique: Lost in Translation
Authors: Meyer Yvonne , Lemay Céline , de Labrusse Claire
Published: March 2019

AIM

To understand the meaning and impact of translating “midwifery” into “maïeutique” as proposed in The Lancet Series on Midwifery.

METHODS

Linguistic change in terminology was analyzed by comparing English/French translations, reviewing the French literature, and analyzing the results of a survey among French-speaking midwives' associations.

FINDINGS

Translation comparisons and French literature showed that the use of “maïeutique” was far from the definition given in The Lancet Series. Results of the survey conducted by the Swiss Federation of Midwives showed that the terms “maïeuticien” and “maïeutique” gained little acceptance.

CONCLUSION

It is important that the chosen term is meaningful to the French-speaking population, midwives, and stakeholders. Such a name change deserves a consultation with the French-speaking midwives and careful consideration of all the possible implications.
Sistemas alimentarios sostenibles para 10 mil millones de humanos en 2050
Authors: Rivera Dommarco Juan Ángel
Published: March 2019

Nuestros sistemas alimentarios producen, procesan y distribuyen alimentos que dan sustento a los aproximadamente 7,700 millones de humanos que habitamos el planeta. En las últimas cinco décadas ha habido una disminución global de desnutrición, hambre, pobreza extrema y mortalidad en menores de cinco años, al tiempo que ha aumentado la esperanza de vida. Sin embargo, estos logros se ven ensombrecidos por el aumento inusitado en el consumo de dietas poco saludables, que aumentan el riesgo de obesidad y enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles y muerte prematura. A pesar de la disminución de las carencias alimentarias, persisten grandes grupos poblacionales que padecen problemas de desnutrición, deficiencias de micronutrientes e inseguridad alimentaria.  Por si esto fuera poco, los mismos sistemas alimentarios que han propiciado los aumentos de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles sin haber logrado erradicar las carencias nutricionales, son parcialmente responsables de la degradación de nuestro planeta.
“Super Service Delivery”: an advanced conceptual model of one-stop service for wide administrative region
Authors: Rifai Hasan Ilham , Agustang Andi , Kahar Fachri , Tahir Hery
Published: March 2019

The innovative role of “One-Stop Integrated Services” (one-stop service in Indonesia) is now being developed. On the other hand, the problems faced by the community in their efforts to obtain service have not been decomposed precisely. The issue of distance and travel time to the service center (service offices: OSS) and the resulting costs are still burdensome. This situation is very prevalent in communities in districts, cities, and provinces, because Indonesia’s topography is divided into land administration areas and large islands.The aim is to unravel the burden of problems faced by the community of service users in the land administration area and large islands. The authority, main tasks, and functions of the “one-stop integrated service office” can be stretched close to the residents of far-flung communities in remote areas, because the original public service users are there.Technically, the tasks and functions of PTSP services are delegated through sub-district offices in various parts of the region, and may even be delegated to the village offices/village offices. PTSP parties only need to place 1 (one) up to 2 (two) personnel to carry out this task. This technique administratively utilizes government work networks and e-gov networks that are ready and able to mediate recording and transactions in real time. Regional Government Banks can also provide support in the same way to handle the management of super service delivery transactions in various parts of the district.
Investigation and evaluation of agricultural water use in a least developed country – a case study in Koshi River basin, Nepal
Authors: Kong Bo , Deng Wei , Wang Qing , Yu Huan
Published: March 2019

Water availability plays a key role in securing agricultural production and sustaining the income of farming households. Nepal is one of the countries most dependent on agriculture; more than 80% of the population works in agriculture, contributing to 35% of its total gross domestic product (GDP). As one of the longest rivers in Nepal, Koshi River is one of the main water supplies for agricultural activities. In recent years, due to the population growth and the climate change, there has been increasing stress on the water resources in Koshi River basin. Therefore, a comprehensive investigation of water availability in the basin area is required, prior to an effective strategy for water resources allocation and management. In this study, we provide a quantitative assessment of available water resources in Koshi River basin and highlight the trend of water availability for agricultural use. Moreover, we discuss the potential water-related risks for farming households in the basin area. The contribution of this study is to provide the basis for efficient water management strategies in Koshi River basin.
Kinetic and equilibrium modeling of biosorption of nickel (II) and cadmium (II) on brewery sludge
Authors: Kulkarni Rajeswari M. , Vidya Shetty K. , Srinikethan G.
Published: March 2019

In the current study, utilization of industrial waste brewery sludge for the biosorption of nickel (II) and cadmium (II) has been explored. The suitable conditions for the effective removal of Ni (II) and Cd (II) from aqueous solutions were examined. The kinetic evaluation showed that the biosorption process using the sludge followed pseudo-second order kinetics. In the presence of a metal co-ion, competitive and preferential biosorption was observed. The Langmuir model and Freundlich model were able to describe the sorption equilibrium for biosorption of Ni (II) and Cd (II) ions in single and dual metal systems. The effects of co-ion concentrations onto mono-component isotherm parameters (Langmuir and Freundlich) were studied and the inhibitory effect of co-ion concentration was observed. The effective reusability of biomass was assessed by three cycles of sorption-desorption. The sludge, owing to its high biosorption intensity and large availability from the local supply, is a better biosorbent for the treatment of Ni (II) and Cd (II) contaminated water.
Índices de geração de resíduos sólidos em restaurante industrial de grande porte
Authors: Ribeiro Maria Lúcia , Carvalho Rita de Cássia Reis , Castro Marcus César Avezum Alves de , Alcorinte Marina Gulo , Araújo Danielle dos Santos , Cazeiro Larissa Fernanda
Published: March 2019

Considerando a importância econômica, social e ambiental que o setor dos restaurantes industriais (RI) vem alcançando no mundo contemporâneo, este estudo objetivou quantificar resíduos gerados em um RI de grande porte do estado de São Paulo. As coletas foram realizadas durante 12 meses em 2009, nos três turnos de distribuição das refeições. A determinação da geração de resíduos/refeição foi realizada nas quatro fontes geradoras: retorno de bandejas, pré-preparo e preparo, sobra limpa e recicláveis. Foram gerados, no total, 29.356 kg de resíduos, correspondendo a 72,5% de matéria orgânica e 27,4% de recicláveis. O índice médio de geração de resíduos foi de 59,3g/refeição, destacando-se a devolução com a maior contribuição (19,6g/refeição) e a etapa de sobra limpa como menor produtora de resíduos (12,5g/refeição), indicando um protocolo de rotina eficaz. A notória quantidade de resíduos orgânicos gerados deve ser minimizada por práticas como compostagem, utilização de alimentos que produzem menos resíduos ou pré-processados, bem como investir na educação ambiental de usuários e funcionários.
Imagem do esteticista sob a ótica dos stakeholders
Authors: Dias Izabela Teixeira , Vasconcelos Fernanda Carla Wasner , Souki Gustavo Quiroga
Published: March 2019

Este trabalho averiguou a percepção dos stakeholders sobre a imagem da profissão e do profissional da Estética. Para tanto, foi realizada uma pesquisa qualitativa e descritiva, por meio de 49 entrevistas semiestruturadas. Os entrevistados foram solicitados a fazer desenhos sobre a profissão e do profissional da Estética, ilustrando os depoimentos obtidos. Os depoimentos foram analisados utilizando a base teórica sobre as dimensões da imagem De Toni, Milan e Schuler. Os resultados mostram: (i) dimensão cognitiva - a responsabilidade em relação à beleza e à saúde são inerentes às atividades profissionais; (ii) dimensão funcional - cuidados com pele, unhas, aspectos relacionados à aparência e a necessidade de constante aprimoramento profissional; (iii) dimensão simbólica mostrou que profissionais de Estética melhoram a autoestima, promovem bem-estar e geram satisfação aos cientes; (iv) dimensão emocional, foram citados relatos de emoções positivas em relação à prestação de serviços e aos resultados atingidos. Este trabalho inova ao utilizar conceitos de imagem e de marketing para analisar a profissão e o profissional da Estética, trazendo contribuições gerenciais e acadêmicas.
Salivary Antioxidant and Oxidative Stress Marker Levels in HIV-Positive Individuals
Authors: Amjad Samaneh Vaziri , Davoodi Poorandokht , Goodarzi Mohammad Taghi , Abdolsamadi Hamidreza , Poorolajal Jalal , Parsa Shahryar , Paydari Darvish , Ahmadi-Motamayel Fatemeh
Published: March 2019

Background:

HIV infections are a worldwide health problem. HIV infection reduces CD4+ cell counts. Oxidative stress might play an important role in the stimulation of virus replication and immunodeficiency. Saliva might be the first line of defense against oxidative stress.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the oxidative stress marker and antioxidant levels of saliva in HIV-infected patients by measuring total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde level.

Methods:

A total of 49 HIV-positive patients and 49 healthy HIV-negative individuals were randomly selected. All the patients were clinically examined. Five mL of unstimulated whole saliva was collected and evaluated by spectrophotometric assay. Data were analyzed with STATA 11.

Results:

Mean ages of the case and control groups were 28 and 33 years, respectively. Salivary malondialdehyde levels were significantly higher in the HIV-positive group (3.68±2.26) compared to the healthy control group (2.79±1.91). Levels of salivary total antioxidant capacity were significantly lower in the HIV-positive group (0.20± 0.09) compared to the control group (0.27±0.10).

Conclusion:

The antioxidant defense system in HIV-positive individuals was low and oxidative stress was high in this population. Saliva might be used as a diagnostic tool for antioxidant changes in HIV-positive patients in the future. There were changes in salivary antioxidant defense system and oxidative stress in HIV-positive individuals. Antioxidant supplements might help local salivary and general health statuses.
Editorial: Avaliação na pós-graduação: critérios em discussão DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.22169/revint.v13i30.1550
Authors: Both Ivo José , Almeida Siderly do Carmo Dahle de
Published: March 2019

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.22169/revint.v13i30.1550
Robust ANCOVA, Curvature, and the Curse of Dimensionality
Authors: Wilcox Rand
Published: March 2019

There is a substantial collection of robust analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) methods that effectively deals with non-normality, unequal population slope parameters, outliers, and heteroscedasticity. Some are based on the usual linear model and others are based on smoothers (nonparametric regression estimators). However, extant results are limited to one or two covariates. A minor goal here is to extend a recently-proposed method, based on the usual linear model, to situations where there are up to six covariates. The usual linear model might provide a poor approximation of the true regression surface. The main goal is to suggest a method, based on a robust smoother, for dealing with curvature when there are three or four covariates. The results include perspectives on the curse of dimensionality. Perspectives on the use of a linear model versus a smoother are given.