bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and public health implications of mycotoxigenic fungi in treated drinking water systems
Authors: Mhlongo Ntombie Thandazile , Tekere Memory , Sibanda Timothy 
Published: May 2019

AbstractInsufficient potable water resources and poorly treated drinking water quality are the world's number one cause for preventable morbidity and mortality from water-related pathogenic microorganisms. Pathogenic microorganisms, including mycotoxigenic fungi, have been identified in treated drinking water. This paper presents a review of mycotoxigenic fungi as a health risk to the public as these fungi are responsible for allergies, cancers and opportunistic infections mainly to immunocompromised patients. The exacerbating factors contributing to fungal presence in water distribution systems, factors that lead to fungi being resistant to water treatment and treated drinking water quality legislations are also discussed. This paper provides a review on the prevalence of mycotoxigenic fungi and their implications to public health in treated drinking water, and the need for inclusion in treated drinking water quality regulations.
Absorption of hexavalent chromium by green micro algae Chlorella sorokiniana: live planktonic cells
Authors: Husien Sh. , Labena A. , El-Belely E. F. , Mahmoud Hamada M. , Hamouda Asmaa S. 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
Hexavalent chromium Cr (VI) is a toxic heavy metal that discharged by many industries into the water streams. It is the most toxic form of chromium compound, which causes significant damage to receiving ecosystems. A microalgal species, Chlorella sp., was used as a biosorbent material to remove Cr (VI) from Cr-contaminated effluents. Furthermore, different variables: pH, temperature, contact time, Cr (VI) concentration and algal dose, were optimized in order to determine the optimum conditions that achieve the highest removal efficiency. The optimization process was achieved through two steps: one factor at a time (OFAT) experiments followed by 25 general full factorial. Moreover, molecular identification was performed using 18S rRNA in order to demonstrate the species of Chlorella, and it was identified as Chlorella sorokiniana. The highest chromium removal efficiency of 99.6793% was achieved at 100 ppm Cr (VI) after three days' contact time. Chlorophyll ‘a’ estimation as a growth indicator stated that Chlorella sorokiniana can tolerate 100 ppm Cr (VI) for three days' exposure. The results suggested that Chlorella sorokiniana is a good biosorbent material and it distinguished by its high ability to uptake Cr (VI) from solutions.
Model-based evaluation of fouling mechanisms in powdered activated carbon/membrane bioreactor system
Authors: Xiong Juan , Zuo Xingtao , Zhang Shi , Liao Wei , Chen Zhongbing 
Published: May 2019

Abstract
Identifying the fouling degree of a membrane bioreactor (MBR) provides guidance on the determination of suitable membrane cleaning methods. There is still a lack of knowledge on the effects of powdered activated carbon (PAC) refresh ratio on the MBR fouling mechanism. Major fouling mechanisms of an MBR with constant flow rate at different PAC replenishment ratios were investigated by individual and combined mechanistic fouling models. The root mean square errors were employed to assess the prediction accuracy of the used fouling models. The combined models showed better prediction. The cake–complete model provided far better fits of the transmembrane pressure data, and provided good fits of other individual model predictions regardless of the PAC refreshment ratio. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed that the cake layer clogging was the main fouling mechanism followed by complete blockage and standard plugging. The cake–complete model may be used to predict the fouling mechanisms in PAC/MBR systems.
The Effects of Quercetin Supplementation on Blood Pressures and Endothelial Function Among Patients with Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Tamtaji Omid R. , Milajerdi Alireza , Dadgostar Ehsan , Kolahdooz Fariba , Chamani Maryam , Amirani Elaheh , Mirzaei Hamed , Asemi Zatollah 
Published: May 2019

Background:
This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were
performed to determine the effect of quercetin administration on blood pressures and endothelial function among
patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and related disorders.

Methods:
We searched systematically online databases including Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and
Web of Science to identify the relevant RCTs until December 2018. Q-test and I2 statistics were applied to assess
heterogeneity among the included studies. Data were pooled using a random-effects model and weighted mean
difference (WMD) was considered as the overall effect size.

Results:
Out of 284 citations, 8 RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. We found a significant reduction in
systolic blood pressure (SBP) (WMD: -1.69; 95% CI: -3.22, -0.17) following the intake of quercetin supplements.
However, quercetin supplementation did not significantly affect diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD: -3.14;
95% CI: -8.24, 1.95), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) (WMD: -24.49; 95% CI: -53.74, 4.77) and
intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) (WMD: -5.78; 95% CI: -12.93, 1.38).

Conclusions:
In summary, the current meta-analysis demonstrated that quercetin supplementation significantly
reduced SBP, yet did not affect DBP, VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 among patients with MetS and related disorders.
Light-matter Interaction Under Intense Field Conditions: Nonlinear Optical Properties of Metallic-dielectric Nanostructures
Authors: Fazio Enza , D'Urso Luisa , Saija Rosalba , Santangelo Saveria , Neri Fortunato 
Published: May 2019

Background:
Metallic–dielectric plasmonic nanoparticles have recently aroused great interest
in view of many and novel technological applications, based on the interaction between light
and matter under intense field conditions, in nonlinear integrated photonics and opto-fluidics, thanks
to the possibility of tuning their electronic and optical properties through a fine control of the synthesis
parameters and their nanoparticles under a high-power laser, like the one used during z-scan measures.

Objective:
The goal of this work is the study of nonlinear optical properties (as nonlinear refraction,
scattering, two-photon absorption, optical limiting) of colloids synthesized in different liquid media by
Pulsed laser ablation in liquids (PLAL), which is a photo-assisted synthesis technique ensuring the
formation of stable, contaminant-free colloids directly during the ablation process.

Methods:
Noble metal nanoparticles, metal oxides hybrid nanostructures and silicon-based nanomaterials,
were prepared by nanosecond and picosecond PLAL technique, in different media. The
third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties have been studied by the use of a single beam z-scan
technique with Q-switched frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser (λ=532 nm) at 5 ns pulse.

Results:
1) A good stability of the PLAL nanocolloids under a high laser power; 2) the limiting
threshold reduction inducted by the Ag-Au nanoparticles, the increase of the NLO absorption coefficient
β, the reduction of the transmittance/scattering signal and the presence of a pronounced asymmetry
of the peak/valley profile of the metal decorated metal oxide nanomaterials compared to the
separately produced components.

Conclusion:
An intriguing coupling between the nature of the optical limiting response and the
nanostructures rearrangement upon intense field conditions, explaining z-scan data by a classical approach
able to account for the nanoparticles asymmetry and plasmonic effects, are the main results
found.
COMPARATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF SOFTWARE SYSTEMS FOR ANALYSIS AND PROCESSING OF SPEECH SIGNALS USING WAVELETS
Authors: Dovgal V. M. , Hein Min Zo 
Published: May 2019

Objectives.This article is devoted to the problem of processing and analysis of speech signals on the basis of the wavelet transform method, which has become one of the most relevant in recent years.Method.The growing relevance and undoubted practical value became the reason for the emergence of a large number of software systems that allow the processing of speech signals on the basis of this method. However, each of these systems has significant differences in the interface provided by the processing tools, functions, has a number of advantages and disadvantages. At the moment, a large number of manuals and recommendations for specific software packages have been written, but these materials are fragmented and unsystematic.Result.This article attempts to systematize the theoretical material and describe the similarities and differences, advantages and disadvantages of the three most popular software systems: 1) MATLAB 6.0/6.1/6.5 Wavelet Toolbox 2/2.1/2.2; 2) Mathcad; 3) Wavelet Explorer of Mathematica.Conclusion.This article will be useful for specialists dealing with the problem of speech signal processing using the wavelet transform method, as it contains material that has practical value, and will allow to facilitate the work of a specialist related to the selection of the optimal for the implementation of a specific task of the software complex.
SOFTWARE APPLICATION FOR CALCULATING MODELS FORECASTING INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENT OF INDUSTRIES
Authors: Mirzemagomedova M. M. , Muradov M. M. 
Published: May 2019

Objectives. The article is devoted to the development of a software application that allows you to automate methods for collecting and processing information, as well as perform time-consuming analytical calculations. Embarcadero C ++ Builder XE, a visual object-oriented programming language, was used to implement a software application. The software being developed is created to solve the following tasks: a comparative analysis of innovative development indicators for the selected years; selection of a projected indicator, building a regression model; making a forecast with a lead time of 3; determination of the confidence interval; the formation of a graphical display of observable and calculated values, the selected indicator of innovative development.Method. In a software application, formalized methods were used as a mathematical model, one of which is multiple regression. Regression analysis consists in defining an analytical expression of a relationship in which a change in a single quantity, called a dependent or productive attribute, is due to the influence of one or several independent quantities (factors).Result. With the help of the developed software product, you can not only automate time-consuming methods of collecting and processing information, but also per-form complex analytical calculations using the multiple regression method.Conclusion. Embarcadero C ++ Builder XE is by far the latest state-of-the-art technology and C ++ programming environment. With C ++ Builder, XE has become faster to do the job of creating high-quality applications for Windows-based applications, due to the rapid writing of code, new tools and components.
STRESSED CONDITION OF THE WRAPPING WITHOUT-DRIVE HYDROTECHNICAL TUNNEL OF THE CIRCULAR FORM, PROPOSED IN ANISOTROPIC ROCK GROUND
Authors: Bautdinov D. T. , Djamaludinov M. M. , Zhukova K. S. 
Published: May 2019

Objectives. The aim of the study is a parametric analysis of the stress-free lining of a pressureless hydraulic tunnel of circular section, and adjacent anisotropic rock from its own weight of the ground medium at different ratios of the elastic characteristics of the ground medium in orthogonal directions using a transversely isotropic medium model.Method. The calculation of a large-length hydraulic tunnel laid in strong transversely isotropic rocky ground is reduced to the problem of plane deformation of the theory of elasticity for a transversely isotropic medium containing tunnel development. A model of a transversely isotropic medium (a special case of an anisotropic medium) was used, in which the ground in one plane possesses the characteristics of an isotropic medium (the isotropy plane), and in the perpendicular direction, characteristics different from the isotropic medium. The finite element method was used using the ANSYS software package. The sizes and type of the finite element suitable for calculation on the basis of the solution in the program complex of the verification task were previously determined. The Kirsch problem was accepted as the verification problem.Result. The relative tangential stresses on the outer and inner lining contour, which allow reinforcement of the concrete lining at different depths of the tunnel, are determined. The tangential stresses in the adjacent rock massif are determined, allowing, if necessary, to assess the strength of the soil on the lining contour.Conclusion. The results of the study showed that the degree of anisotropy of the elastic properties of the soil massif significantly affects the stress state. When designing underground structures, it is neces-sary to take into account the anisotropy of the elastic properties of the soil mass; define in detail the physicomechanical properties of rocky soils and pay special attention to elastic characteristics. Ac-counting for transversal-isotropy leads to both an increase and a decrease in tangential stresses in the lining of the tunnel and in the rocky soil on the lining contour. In some respects, the elastic character-istics in orthogonal directions, in the lining and in the soil on the lining contour, there are no tensile stresses, which favorably affects the operation of the hydraulic tunnel.
SPECIFICS OF FORMATION AND EFFECTIVE USE OF CURRENT ASSETS IN CONSTRUCTION
Authors: Chetin T. E. 
Published: May 2019

Objectives. This study is aimed at identifying the specifics of managing current assets in construction enterprises and developing a set of practical measures that can enhance the efficiency of their use.Method. In the course of the study, a system approach was taken, comparative and functional-cost analysis methods.Result. It is shownthatthe specifics of current assetformation in construction industry is to be taken into account when developing a conceptual basis for managinga construction enterprise. Methodological approaches to the estimation of current assets are described, the most effective of which facilitate the optimal choice of sources, forms and volume of attracting current assets into construction industry. A set of practical measures for organizing a system of current asset management in construction enterprises is proposed. These measures are expected to provide for the rational formation and use of all the constituent components of this system.Conclusion. The methodological approaches to the estimation of current assets, criteria for making managerial decisions, management strategy development stage sand methodological provisions for the organisation of the management of current assets presented in this papercan be used as a methodological basis for managing the working assets of a construction enterprise, thuscontributing to improved management efficiency and creating conditions for sustainable functionality. Every managerial decisionrelated to determining the level of financial assets, accounts receivable and inventories should be considered from the standpoint of both the profitability of these assets and the optimal structure of current assets, thus requiring respective management levers. The implementation of the basic requirements for the management of current assets necessitates the application of anti-risk expert-analytical procedures, including those related to the functioning of the corporate information management system.
Study of The Initiation of Green Banking Practices at State-owned Bank
Authors: Handajani Lilik , Rifai Ahmad , Husnan L. Hamdani 
Published: May 2019

AbstractThis study aims to describe the initiation of green banking practices at state-owned banks by identifying reporting issues and the level of green banking disclosure as well as formulating the reporting domain and indicators of its activities. Content analysis is carried out on information related to green banking activities report in the annual report of BUMN banks for the period 2015-2017. The research findings reveal that state-owned banks have initiated green banking practices. The practices come in various forms of activity due to the absence of reporting guidelines and the trend to report green banking activities that have been increasing over the past 3 years. Indicators of green banking activities in state-owned banks can be grouped into several reporting domains namely, green products, green operations, green customers and green policies. The implications of the study argue that the initiation of green banking practices in the practice of green banking at state-owned banks can be a role model for initiating environmentally friendly bank practices. Moreover, it is expected that environmentally friendly bank practices can minimize business risks by reducing environmental and social risks by harmonizing economic, environmental and social interests in towards achieving sustainable finance. Keywords: state-owned bank, green banking, sustainable finance Kajian Tentang Inisiasi Praktik Green Banking Pada Bank BUMNAbstractPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan inisiasi praktik green banking pada bank BUMN dengan mengidentifikasi isu-isu pelaporan dan tingkat pengungkapan green banking serta merumuskan domain pelaporan dan indikator kegiatannya. Analisis isi dilakukan terhadap informasi yang berkaitan dengan pelaporan aktivitas green banking pada laporan tahunan bank BUMN periode 2015-2017. Temuan penelitian mengungkapkan bank BUMN telah melakukan inisiasi praktik green banking dengan bentuk aktivitas yang beragam karena belum adanya pedoman pelaporannya dan terjadi kecenderungan pelaporan aktivitas green banking yang semakin meningkat dalam kurun waktu 3 tahun terakhir. Indikator kegiatan green banking pada bank BUMN dapat dikelompokkan dalam domain pelaporan yang meliputi green product, green operational, green customer, dan green policy. Implikasi dari penelitian mengargumentasikan bahwa inisiasi praktik green banking pada bank BUMN dapat menjadi role model inisiasi praktik bank ramah lingkungan untuk meminimalkan risiko bisnis dengan mengurangi risiko lingkungan dan sosial dengan menyelaraskan kepentingan ekonomi, lingkungan dan sosial dalam mewujudkan keuangan berkelanjutan. Kata kunci: bank BUMN, perbankan hijau, keuangan berkelanjutan
The Assessment of Bankruptcy Potential of Sharia Rural Banks in Indonesia
Authors: Pratiwi Amelia , Puspita Baiq Nurlita Dwi , Wahyudi Sony 
Published: May 2019

Abstract:This investigation is intended to assess the possibility of financial problems in Sharia Rural Banks (SBRs) in Indonesia. The financial ratio approach is chosen to measure the financial distress potential of SRBs which assesses the profitability, liquidity, efficiency and capital adequacy of 166 banks from 2013 to 2016. The model of panel estimation uses discriminant analysis is utilized in predicting financial distress in Indonesian SRBs. The outcomes of this research are, firstly, liquidity and efficiency are the most prominent variables in predicting financial difficulties in SRBs. The second is in further analysis of liquidity shows that most SRBs are very aggressive in disbursing credit to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are riskier than other economic sectors. In addition, a deeper analysis of bank efficiency indicates that the highest expense component of SRBs' other operating costs is employee and administration costs. Keywords: financial distress, financial ratios, Sharia rural banks, discriminant analysisPengujian Potensi Kebangkrutan Grup Bank Pembiayaan Rakyat Syariah di IndonesiaAbstrakStudi ini bertujuan untuk menilai kemungkinan terjadinya masalah keuangan pada Bank Perkreditan Rakyat Syariah (BPRS) di Indonesia. Pendekatan rasio keuangan dilakukan untuk mengukur kemungkinan terjadinya financial distress yang menilai dari sisi profitabilitas, likuiditas, efisiensi dan kecukupan modal dari 166 bank selama 2013 hingga 2016. Model estimasi panel menggunakan analisis diskriminan diterapkan dalam memprediksi financial distress pada BPRS Indonesia. Hasilnya adalah, pertama, likuiditas dan efisiensi adalah variabel yang paling signifikan dalam memprediksi kesulitan keuangan di BPRS. Kedua, dalam analisis likuiditas lebih lanjut menunjukkan bahwa sebagian besar BPRS cukup agresif dalam mendistribusikan pembiayaan kepada usaha kecil dan menengah (UKM), yang lebih berisiko di bandingkan sektor ekonomi lainnya. Selain itu, analisis yang lebih dalam tentang efisiensi bank menunjukkan bahwa komponen biaya tertinggi dari biaya operasional lain BPRS secara rata-rata adalah biaya pegawai atau karyawan dan administrasi. Kata kunci: financial distress, rasio keuangan, BPRS, analisis diskriminan
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapist-Guided Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Stress-Related Disorders: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Lindsäter Elin , Axelsson Erland , Salomonsson Sigrid , Santoft Fredrik , Ljótsson Brjánn , Åkerstedt Torbjörn , Lekander Mats , Hedman-Lagerlöf Erik 
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Stress-related disorders are associated with significant suffering, functional impairment, and high societal costs. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) is a promising treatment for stress-related disorders but has so far not been subjected to health economic evaluation.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of ICBT for patients with stress-related disorders in the form of adjustment disorder (AD) or exhaustion disorder (ED). We hypothesized that ICBT, compared with a waitlist control (WLC) group, would generate improvements at low net costs, thereby making it cost-effective.

METHODS

Health economic data were obtained in tandem with a randomized controlled trial of a 12-week ICBT in which patients (N=100) were randomized to an ICBT (n=50) or a WLC (n=50) group. Health outcomes and costs were surveyed pre- and posttreatment. We calculated incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) based on remission rates and incremental cost-utility ratios (ICURs) based on health-related quality of life. Bootstrap sampling was used to assess the uncertainty of our results.

RESULTS

The ICER indicated that the most likely scenario was that ICBT led to higher remission rates compared with the WLC and was associated with slightly larger reductions in costs from pre- to posttreatment. ICBT had a 60% probability of being cost-effective at a willingness to pay (WTP) of US $0 and a 96% probability of being cost-effective at a WTP of US $1000. The ICUR indicated that ICBT also led to improvements in quality of life at no net societal cost. Sensitivity analyses supported the robustness of our results.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that ICBT is a cost-effective treatment for patients suffering from AD or ED. Compared with no treatment, ICBT for these patients yields large effects at no or minimal societal net costs.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02540317; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02540317