bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxicity of Ochratoxin to Early Life Stages of Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Tschirren Linda , Siebenmann Seraina , Pietsch Constanze
Published: June 2018

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a known contaminant in fish feed but its effect on fish health remains rather unknown. A study was conducted to investigate the effects of different concentrations of ochratoxin on early life stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio). The tests with ochratoxin A showed a correlation between the exposure to mycotoxin and the amount of damage. The mortality rate and the incidents of embryonal damage was increased by increasing ochratoxin concentrations. The calculations resulted in a lethal concentration for 50% of the embryos (LC50) of 0.29 mg/L and a concentration at which 50% of the animals showed impairment (EC50) of 0.36 mg/L after 96 h of exposure. During the test, reduced heart rates were also observed revealing a clear dose-response relationship. The EC50 determination for this endpoint was 1.26 mg/L after 72 h of exposure. The measurement of oxidative stress was proven to be the most sensitive system to indicate OTA effects on the zebrafish embryos with an EC50 value of 0.067 mg/L after 72 h of exposure. The test validity was given because the control test with 3,4-Dichloroaniline (3,4-D) showed a LC50 value of 2.88 mg after 96 h of exposure which is comparable to the available reference values. According to the current knowledge, these experimental doses did not exceed the environmental concentrations of this ochratoxin A. However, this study raises concerns about the effects of ochratoxin on fish.
Cost-Optimal Flexibilization of Drinking Water Pumping and Treatment Plants
Authors: Zimmermann Britta , Gardian Hedda , Rohrig Kurt
Published: June 2018

This paper examines potential cost savings attained through the flexible operation of water treatment plants and drinking water pumping and the benefits gained by investing in extended water storage capacities that enhance flexibility. An existing plant in South Germany serves as an example. Mixed-integer linear programming is used to model the plant and the electricity procurement on the German spot market while ensuring the security of supply. Cost optimization considering the different cost components reveals potential cost savings through flexible operation. The paper evaluates the benefits of building additional water reservoirs and rates the financial effects of the measures used to enhance the flexibility of water pumping and treatment plants.
Simulation of Rain Garden Effects in Urbanized Area Based on Mike Flood
Authors: Li Jiake , Zhang Bei , Li Yajiao , Li Huaien
Published: June 2018

An urban storm and surface water pollution model (MIKE FLOOD) was used to assess the impact of rain gardens on water quantity and quality for an urban area in Xi’an. After the rain garden measures were added, the results show that: (1) In the case where the total proportion of rain gardens was 2%, the overflow reduction rate was 6.74% to 65.23%, the number of overflow points reduction rate was 1.79% to 65.63%, the overload pipes reduction rate was 0% to 11.15%, the runoff reduction rate was 1.93% to 9.69%; (2) Under different rainfall conditions, the load reduction rate of suspended solids (SS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) were 2.36% to 30.35%, 2.37% to 30.11%, 2.34% to 30.08%, and 2.32% to 31.35%, respectively; (3) The submersion ranges of different submerged depths and submerged durations were reduced by 0.30% to 64.18% and 7.12% to 100%, respectively. The statistics of the automatic modeling and intelligent analysis system (AMIAS) showed that the rain garden regulation range of the waterlogging risk area was 0.78% to 100%. The rain garden has a good control effect on urban storm runoff in terms of water volume and water quality, but as the rainfall recurrence interval increases, the control effect will decrease.
Characterization of Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter in the Littoral Zones of Eutrophic Lakes Taihu and Hongze during the Algal Bloom Season
Authors: Chen Bingfa , Huang Wei , Ma Shuzhan , Feng Muhua , Liu Cheng , Gu Xiaozhi , Chen Kaining
Published: June 2018

Chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) is a key component with a critical role in the littoral zones of eutrophic shallow lakes; yet the characteristics of CDOM in these zones remain seldom systematically reported. In this study, the differences in sources, biogeochemical characteristics, and fates of CDOM between the littoral zones of eutrophic lakes Taihu (LLT; frequently occurring algal blooms and longer lake residence time) and Hongze (LLH; no obvious algal blooms and shorter residence time) were compared during the algal bloom season using ultraviolet-visible spectra and excitation and emission matrix spectroscopy combined with parallel factor analysis. Three humic-like fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOM) components (C1, C3, and C4) and one protein-like component (C2) were identified. Results showed that FDOM components were dominated by protein-like fluorescent substances in LLT, and humic-like materials in LLH, respectively. The CDOM in LLT had a lower relative aromaticity and molecular weight, humification degree and a higher autotrophic productivity because of algal blooms. Furthermore, CDOM depletion rates in LLT were higher than those in LLH due to a longer lake residence time in LLT. In addition, CDOM shifted from high molecular weight to low molecular weight as the humification degree decreased during the CDOM depletion process. This comparative study showed that algal blooms and lake residence time were the significant factors for distinguishing characteristics of CDOM between littoral zones of shallow lakes on a similar trophic level. This study provides field-based knowledge for remote sensing CDOM measurement and serves as a reference for lakeshore aquatic environmental management.
DUST PARTICLE DEPOSITION QUALITY ASSESSMENT IN RURAL AREAS LOCATED NOT FAR FROM A CONGESTED HIGHWAY AND SEVERAL SEBKHAS: CASE OF MONASTIR REGION, EASTERN TUNISIA
Authors: Chabbi Iness , Bahloul Moez , Dammak Rim , Azri Chafai
Published: June 2018

In order to better understand the processes of removing atmospheric particles to the surface, dry particle deposition in Monastir region (eastern Tunisia) has been studied. As a first step, a biweekly monitoring of the particulate deposits was carried out in 26 sites from January to August, 2012. Secondly, two particular sites were investigated from October, 2014 to August, 2015. A very high fluctuation in those particle fluxes, ranging from 0.560 to 2.210 g/m2/14days, was clearly observed. The spatial distribution of particulate deposits shows a growing trend from rural to urban (coastal) areas depending on nearby sources (brickyards and clay quarries, road traffic and sebkhas) and meteorological factors (including precipitation and wind speed). The combined geochemical-statistical study of the particulate deposits elementary fluxes (Cl-, Na+, K+, Ca++, Fe(2,3)+, Cd, Pb, Zn, Ni, Mn and Cu) at the two observed rural and urban sites show a non-negligible impact of the anthropogenic component attributed to metals (Pb, Mn, Zn, and Cu). It is linked to the simultaneous effect of the urban (mainly road) activities in the Eastern part of the region and the intense fluidity of the motorway and railway in its Western part. The importance of the chlorine contributions of the terrigenous circulation has been attributed to the effect of sebkhas. The phenomenon of dust resuspension in agricultural areas, clay storage near brickyards and unbuilt sites has also been highlighted. The lowest biweekly elementary fluxes are probably due to the effect of rainfall periods which causes atmospheric whash-out.
Origin of the Modulation of the Radio Emission from the Solar Corona by a Fast Magnetoacoustic Wave
Authors: Kolotkov Dmitrii Y. , Nakariakov Valery M. , Kontar Eduard P.
Published: June 2018

Observational detection of quasi-periodic drifting fine structures in a type III radio burst associated with a solar flare SOL2015-04-16T11:22, with the LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR), is presented. Although similar modulations of the type III emission have been observed before and were associated with the plasma density fluctuations, the origin of those fluctuations was unknown. Analysis of the striae of the intensity variation in the dynamic spectrum allowed us to reveal two quasi-oscillatory components. The shorter component has an apparent wavelength of ∼2 Mm, phase speed of ∼657 km s−1, which gives an oscillation period of ∼3 s, and a relative amplitude of ∼0.35%. The longer component has a wavelength of ∼12 Mm and relative amplitude of ∼5.1%. The short frequency range of the detection does not allow us to estimate its phase speed. However, the properties of the shorter oscillatory component allowed us to interpret it as a fast magnetoacoustic wave guided by a plasma nonuniformity along the magnetic field outwards from the Sun. The assumption that the intensity of the radio emission is proportional to the amount of plasma in the emitting volume allowed us to show that the superposition of the plasma density modulation by a fast wave and a longer-wavelength oscillation of an unspecified nature could readily reproduce the fine structure of the observed dynamic spectrum. The observed parameters of the fast wave give an absolute value for the magnetic field in the emitting plasma of ∼1.1 G, which is consistent with the radial magnetic field model.
Adaptive Internet Technology as a Tool for Flipping the Classroom to Develop Communicative Foreign Language Skills
Authors: Shaykina Olga Igorevna , Minin Mikhail Grigoryevich
Published: June 2018

A promising method of flipped classroom technology is becoming increasingly popular among higher education teachers. Flipping the classroom is considered to be a sufficient approach for best time spreading in-class by actively engaging students during practical lessons. The article examines flipped classroom technology implementation on the grounds of adaptive online technology. A detailed algorithm of actions on the work of a studied online resource is developed. The study explores the ability of students to work under the conditions of flipping the classroom by means of adaptive learning technology empirically. Efficiency criteria of learning technology application are identified and described. Lesson planning of both experimental and control groups is shown in details. Research data demonstrate adaptive technology integration into flipped classroom method as a successful approach for higher education teachers who can develop their own style for flipping their instructions. It is established that the studied joint technologies demonstrate an efficient impact on the development of communicative skills.
Exploration of English Composition Diagnosis System Based on Rule Matching
Authors: Xu Xurong
Published: June 2018

To discuss the grammar checking system and to solve the low accuracy of the system and bad effect, the grammar checking algorithm and the accuracy were improved. On this basis, a grammar checking system was designed and developed. The grammar checking module adopted the grammar checking design based on multi-rules and used multi-layer grammar rules to provide error correction function for common English grammar. To improve the grammar checking accuracy of grammar checking module, the grammatical model based on statistics was introduced by the system. In addition, N-gram model was applied to evaluate the errors found out by the rules grammar. The experimental results showed that the grammar checking system carried out grammar check of domestic students’ English composition samples, and the system performance was good. It is concluded that in asynchronous mode, hundreds of sentences can be checked at the same time, and the purpose of the design is achieved.
The Application of Augmented Reality Visual Communication in Network Teaching
Authors: Zhao Qian
Published: June 2018

In order to improve the effectiveness of online teaching, visual communica-tion of augmented reality technology was applied. Network teaching was an auxiliary teaching form that used the network as a medium to carry out teaching information transmission. It was an extension of classroom teaching and an organic integration of information and technology and art. The visual effect of the online teaching interface directly affected the quality of teach-ing information delivery. Based on augmented reality technology, the re-search, analysis and analysis of interactive interface design content, process-es and principles were carried out in terms of human-computer interaction, user experience, and visual communication. Augmented reality based visual interaction interface design methods were summarized. The results showed that visual communication based on augmented reality could provide a new form of teaching demonstration and enrich the content of classroom teach-ing. To sum up, this method improves the students’ participation and enthu-siasm, and enhances the teaching effect.
Design and Analysis of an Interactive MOOC Teaching System Based on Virtual Reality
Authors: Zhang Yongfei , Chen Jianshu , Miao Dan , Zhang Chen
Published: June 2018

In order to solve the problem of lack of immersion in the MOOC curriculum, through research on key technologies, a MOOC teaching interactive system based on virtual reality was constructed to improve it. Through the decompo-sition of complex objects or the addition of blank sub-objects, the system built corresponding collision detectors to achieve more realistic collision de-tection effects. The immersive and interactive nature of the virtual user in the virtual scene was enhanced. The results showed that the system used the immersive, interactive and constructive sense of virtual reality to build peo-ple's interest in learning. Therefore, the MOOC teaching interactive system based on virtual reality has a good sense of immersion, interaction and con-ceivability.
Design and Application of a Fuzzy Evaluation Algorithm for Stroke Force in Calligraphy Teaching
Authors: Xing Lizhi
Published: June 2018

To solve the problem that the existing electronic word learning device only had a single character writing exercise function, the interaction structure and the stroke force analysis algorithm of Chinese characters were studied from aspects such easy use, smart technology and writing paper simulation. In re-sponse to the problems in the writing process and the limitations of smart guidance, the writing problems occurred the resistive touch screen were ana-lyzed, and a fuzzy evaluation method for Chinese strokes was proposed. The main contents included membership template construction, fuzzy subset se-lection, template parameter generation and evaluation. The experimental re-sult showed that the interaction structure can inherit the advantages of paper writing and exert the advantages of electronic devices. It is concluded that human-computer interaction based on interactive structures can better apply the intelligent machine to character practitioner.
Application of Computer aided Collaborative Learning Model in English Virtual Electronic Teaching
Authors: Wu Jing
Published: June 2018

In order to improve teaching quality, the collaborative learning model was applied to English virtual electronic teaching. A virtual e-learning platform suitable for English teaching was constructed. With the help of collaborative learning, students' English learning psychology was reshaped. The results showed that the collaborative learning model eliminated students' resistance and strangeness in English virtual electronic teaching. Students' enthusiasm for learning was stimulated and learning efficiency was improved. To sum up, this method effectively improves the effectiveness of English virtual electronic teaching.
Development and Application of an English Network Teaching System Based on MOOC
Authors: Zhang Nina
Published: June 2018

Compared to traditional university network learning, MOOC teach-ing emphasized "student-centered", "knowledge modularity" and "interaction and communication". In order to construct a perfect college English network teaching environment, based on the in-depth analysis of the characteristics of the MOOC teaching model, a multimedia and multi-resources college English learning environ-ment was established. In this environment, students could make in-dividualized learning on their own pace. The system integrated learning platforms such as online learning, interactive communica-tion, online operation, curriculum publishing and news bulletin, which were in line with MOOC teaching ideas. The results showed that, based on the idea of MOOC teaching, the system effectively promoted students' learning desire to transform knowledge into ac-tive learning behavior under the support of learning environment and advanced learning tools. To sum up, the system effectively im-proves the effect of college English teaching on the Internet.
Joe Earle, Cahal Moran and Zach Ward-Perkins, The Econocracy: The Perils of Leaving Economics to the Experts, Manchester University Press, Pages: 240, 2017, Price: GBP 9.99 (LKR 2,129, Approx.), ISBN: 978-1-5261-1013-8 (pbk)
Authors: Amarasuriya Harini
Published: June 2018

No Abstract Available
Worker knowledge of occupational legislation and related health and safety benefits
Authors: Pilusa Mogale L. , Mogotlane Mataniele S.
Published: June 2018

Background: Environmental hazards such as fumes, gases, poor ventilation and extreme temperatures might lead to occupational illnesses and injuries. To protect workers from potential occupational health and safety risks, the government has promulgated occupational legislation that must be implemented in work settings.Objectives: The objective of this study was to explore the knowledge of workers about occupational legislation and its benefits for their health and safety. The aim was to make recommendations that would be implemented to improve the knowledge and compliance with occupational legislation as advised by the occupational health nurse.Methods: A quantitative approach was used for this study. One hundred and ten respondents were sampled from an accessible population of 1590 workers. A self-administered questionnaire was used for gathering data. Data were analysed through descriptive analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences.Results: Research findings indicated that only 18 (16.36%) respondents were knowledgeable about occupational legislation. Eighty-two (75.54%) respondents were unable to mention even one occupational act by name. Respondents mentioned five benefits of occupational legislation for the health and safety of workers. These benefits were that legislation ensured safety, gave rights to workers, ensured compensation for occupational injuries and illnesses, and provided guidance in the prevention of occupational injuries and illnesses.Conclusion: Most respondents (75.54%) were found not to be knowledgeable about occupational legislation. The positive finding was that respondents knew the benefits of occupational legislation. To improve the respondents’ knowledge about legislation, five recommendations are made by the researcher.
Pastoral care in communities under transition: Interplay between care and culture
Authors: Klaasen John S.
Published: June 2018

This article contributes to pastoral care within communities under transition. It seeks to contribute to the corpus of literature that relates pastoral care with culture and, particularly, multicultural contexts. It seeks to critically engage with pastoral care approaches that has dominated three strands of pastoral care. James, Boisen and Hiltner represent modern pastoral care in the United States of America and theologies of Tillich, Hiltner and the ‘secular’ theologians of the 1960s influenced British pastoral theology. The third strand, African perspective, lacks coherency and consistency as illustrated by the Society for Intercultural Pastoral Care and Counselling (1988–2008), Pastoral Care and Counselling Today Manuscript (1991) and The African Association for Pastoral Studies and Counselling (1985). This article analysis narrative as a methodology for pastoral care.After an overview of pastoral care and culture, different approaches of pastoral care are discussed. A narrative approach to pastoral care in changing communities is recommended as an effective means of care. The positions of the caregiver and cared for is changed within the pastoral care so that both learns from the existential experience. The narrative approach has three interrelated aspects, namely communication, community and experience.
Caregivers’ reading practices to promote literacy in a South African children’s home: Experiences and perceptions
Authors: Tayob Faadhilah , Moonsamy Sharon
Published: June 2018

Background: Exposure to social trauma influences the psychosocial experiences of vulnerable children. This affects their positive development, consequentially resulting in poor scholastic progress. South Africa’s history of inequality and injustice has compounded the current social, educational and economic situation, highlighting the need for research on children in care. A paucity of published studies exists on caregiver facilitation of literacy skills among vulnerable populations in South African children’s homes. The purpose of this paper is to describe the reading practices that caregivers in one children’s home (orphanage) used to promote literacy development. Method: An exploratory, descriptive contextual design was implemented, using inductive and interpretative approaches. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion were conducted. Ten caregivers, who supervised children aged 9–10 years at the home, consented to be participants. Applied content thematic analysis was used to interpret the data obtained. Findings: The caregivers at the children’s home were implementing some reading strategies, but they did not engage sufficiently in self-reflection on the reading processes. The caregivers used relevant reading strategies, such as asking questions to develop understanding and memory recall. They encouraged dialogue through characterisation, where the children acted out the roles of the main characters. These reading strategies demonstrate the quality of the mediation. Conclusions: Speech–language therapists have a role in prevention and promotion programmes in children’s homes. They should advocate for, collaborate on and support caregivers’ facilitation of early literacy skills in these homes, as the link between literacy and language cannot be ignored. Providing guidelines and sharing knowledge on reading instruction for the children are essential in improving the literacy rates in vulnerable populations. Language and literacy interventions are only effective and meaningful if the social and cultural contexts are considered. Such interventions would add value and constitute a step towards redressing past inequalities in South Africa. These results contribute to our understanding of context when developing literacy programmes. The sample size was a limitation. However, the aim was not about generalisation but to gain an insight into caregiver reading practices so that literacy programmes are built on these strengths.
Idiopathic chondrolysis of hip in children: New proposal and implication for radiological staging
Authors: Amarnath C , Muthaiyan Priya , Mary T Helen , Mohanan Shilpa , Gopinathan K
Published: June 2018

Purpose: Our objective was to evaluate the radiological appearances in different stages of idiopathic chondrolysis of hip (ICH) which will be helpful in the early diagnosis and guiding appropriate treatment for this condition to prevent progression of disease. Materials and Methods: We evaluated 14 patients of ICH in varying stages: Stage 1 (n = 9), Stage 2 (n = 3), Stage 3 (n = 2). Average age at presentation was 10–11 years. Plain radiograph and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was done in all these patients. Results: In the current study, we have attempted to stage ICH based on the radiological progression of the disease, where MRI was used as the primary tool. Stage 1 showed a wedge-shaped hyperintensity in T2 weighted (T2W) and hypointensity in T1 weighted (T1W) images involving the middle one-third of the femoral head and it is the earliest and characteristic finding in MRI. Associated findings like joint space narrowing, synovial hypertrophy with joint effusion may also be observed. Stage 2 showed acetabular edema in the affected hip in addition to the above-mentioned findings. Stage 3 showed more extensive involvement of femoral head and acetabulum, with collapse of the femoral head, degenerative changes in hip, early osteoporotic changes, and ultimately loss of joint space. Conclusion: Imaging-based staging system proves very useful in the early diagnosis, staging, and assessing the prognosis of ICH.
Morning glory syndrome with Moyamoya disease: A rare association with role of imaging
Authors: Ponnatapura Janardhana
Published: June 2018

Morning glory disc anomaly (MGDA) is a congenital optic nerve anomaly characterized by a funnel-shaped excavation of the posterior globe that incorporates the optic disc. Most cases are isolated and not associated with systemic anomalies. Systemic anomalies include midline cranial facial defects, hypertelorism, agenesis of the corpus callosum, cleft lip and palate, basal encephalocele, congenital forebrain abnormalities, and renal anomalies. We report a case of 4-year-old male child who presented with reduced visual acuity on left eye with poor fixation. The left eye demonstrated 6-diopter esotropia. Examination of fundus revealed features of MGDA. The child was further subjected to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of brain to rule out other associated anomalies. It demonstrated narrowing at the distal part of internal carotid artery on both sides, left more than right with prominence of lenticulostriate and leptomeningeal vessels. MRI also revealed funnel-shaped excavation of the posterior globe on the left side consistent with MGDA. Ascertaining the accurate diagnosis of MGDA guides appropriate ophthalmic management and should also prompt a search for associated intracranial abnormalities. Although the diagnosis of MGDA is typically made clinically, imaging may feed supplementary value in establishing the diagnosis and reveal the extent and character of associated ocular abnormalities, and cross-sectional imaging permits for evaluation of the globe in the setting of associated opacities of the refractive media, including persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous, which may alleviate the capacity to make this diagnosis on the basis of the fundoscopy examination alone.
Among the fibers: A multimodality imaging review of intramuscular mass lesions
Authors: Shyam Karthik , Cicilet Soumya , Philip Babu
Published: June 2018

The common presentations of patient complaints regarding the musculoskeletal system, such as pain, swelling, and restriction of movement, lead to the imaging discovery of various lesions often located in, or arising from, skeletal muscle in the region of interest. Knowledge of the patients’ clinical history, laboratory parameters, and various imaging characteristics of the implicated lesions would assist the radiologist in coming to a timely, reasonably accurate conclusion about the etiology of the patient’s complaints, the severity of disease, and in directing patient therapy.
Computed tomography imaging of complications of acute cholecystitis
Authors: Schiappacasse Giancarlo , Soffia Pablo , Silva Claudio , Villacrés Fabian
Published: June 2018

Acute cholecystitis (AC) is a frequent complication of biliary cholelithiasis. Although ultrasound is the first diagnostic imaging procedure, frequently the initial imaging modality is computed tomography (CT). Therefore, familiarization of CT findings in AC and potential related complications are extremely important. This pictorial essay reviews a broad spectrum of complications related to AC and its key findings in CT.
Endovascular treatment of ruptured pica aneurysms and association with its extradural origin: A single-center experience
Authors: Mittal Somit , Singh Vivek , Phadke R. V. , Neyaz Zafar
Published: June 2018

Background: Posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) like other intracranial arteries is prone to aneurysm formation. Aneurysms usually arise from the vertebral artery (VA)—PICA junction and the proximal segment of the PICA. The surgical clipping of PICA aneurysms can be challenging and carries a potentially significant risk of morbidity and mortality. Experience with endovascular therapy has been limited to a few studies; however, the use of endovascular therapy as an alternative treatment to surgery has been increasing. We present our experience of last 5 years in treating the ruptured PICA aneurysms. Materials and Methods: A total of 11 patients with PICA aneurysms, out of them 7 were at proximal PICA, 2 at the vertebral-PICA junction, and 1 each at mid and distal PICA, underwent endovascular treatment at our institution between 2011 and 2016. Results: All the patients presented with an acute intracranial hemorrhage, confirmed on CT head. Most of the aneurysms were at proximal PICA (anterior and lateral medullary segments) with the partial incorporation of PICA origin in the sac. Low origin of PICA was seen in 7 (out of 11) cases, out of these cases, 5 had proximal PICA, aneurysm, and one (n = 1) had VA-PICA, junction aneurysm (1/7) and. one distal PICA aneurysm. There were seven proximal PICA aneurysms, and out of them, parent vessel occlusion was done in six and selective coiling in one (n = 1) case. From seven (n = 7) proximal PICA aneurysms, there were five cases of low origin and rests showed normal course and origin. Two (n = 2) junctional aneurysms were treated with simple coiling. Low origin was seen in right VA-PICA junction aneurysm. Endovascular treatment of all the 11 aneurysms was successful. The treatment consisted of selective aneurysm coiling in four (36.3%) patients and aneurysm with parent vessel trapping in seven patients (63.6%). Out of these seven patients, in one (n = 1) patient where aneurysm was distal PICA, glue embolization was done. There was no intra-procedural rupture/contrast extravasation or any thrombo-embolic complications. Follow-up studies ranged from 6 months to 5 years. Conclusion: Endovascular therapy of ruptured proximal PICA aneurysms is possible and safe with the use of adjuvant devices and should be considered as first-line treatment.
The Gravity of Cartoon Physics; or, Schrödinger’s Coyote
Authors: Kennedy Victor
Published: June 2018

When Wile E. coyote goes off a cliff, instead of falling in a parabolic arc, he comes to a halt in mid-air, hangs there until he realizes that he is no longer on solid ground, then falls. Many critics and, indeed, the creators of the cartoons themselves, describe this as “cartoon physics,” which breaks the rules that appear to govern the real world, but several principles of modern physics are in fact depicted here. He is both falling and not falling; when he is able to observe his situation, the laws of quantum physics catch up with him. This, and the principle of relativity, govern the apparent paradoxes of the cartoon world. Although the coyote was, according to his creators, conceived as a parody of a modern scientist and played for laughs, he illustrates several paradoxes of modern science and the unease with which these are widely viewed. These cartoon physics have become a meme that has developed in later animated cartoons and live-action science fiction films, and is now even a part of modern-day science textbooks.
The effects of low levels of aflatoxin B1 on health, growth performance and reproductivity in male rabbits
Authors: Sun Yawang , Dong Guozhong , E Guangxin , Liao Min , Tao Lin , Lv Jingzhi
Published: June 2018

This study investigated the chronic effects of relatively low exposure to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on the growth performance, immune situation and reproduction in male rabbits. Bucks (n=32, 4.82±0.22 kg) were individually assigned to 4 treatments (8 replicates each) using a randomised complete block design. Four diets containing 0, 0.02, 0.05, and 0.1 mg AFB1/kg, were provided to bucks for 8 wk. Growth performance and semen quality were measured. Blood, organ and tissue samples were collected to measure haematological indices, liver function, organ weights and immune parameters. Compared to control, AFB1-contaminated diets reduced body weight and average daily gain (P<0.05), altered certain haematological indices and liver function with decreased monocytes percentage and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, and increased plateletcrit and albumin (P<0.05), slightly impaired reproductive parameters with enhanced ratio of morphologically abnormal sperm cells at early stage and reduced post-stage acrosome integrity, testis weight and serum testosterone concentration (P<0.05), decreased immune function with reduced relative liver weight (%) and tumour necrosis factor-α levels in serum and liver tissue, and increased serum 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine levels (P<0.05). Furthermore, bucks fed diets with relatively high AFB1 (0.05 and 0.1 mg AFB1/kg) had reduced red blood cell and haematocrit (P<0.05) in contrast with the low AFB1 group (0.02 mg AFB1/kg). In conclusion, diets containing 0.05 and 0.1 mg AFB1/kg had negative effects on bucks’ growth performance, haematology, reproductivity and immune function, whereas diet containing 0.02 mg AFB1/kg had only minor effects on the parameters measured.
The effect of repeated freeze-thaw cycles on the meat quality of rabbit
Authors: Wang Zhaoming , He Z. , Li Hongjun
Published: June 2018

We investigated the effect of repeated freeze-thaw cycles on the quality of rabbit meat. Twenty-five Hyla rabbits were slaughtered using standard commercial procedures. A freeze-thaw procedure—i.e., seven days frozen at –18°C followed by thawing at 4°C for 12h— was repeated 5 times, and 9 Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscles were randomly selected at pre-set cycles (0, 1, 2, 3, and 5). The Longissimus lumborum muscles were used to determine meat quality parameters, while the Longissimus thoracis muscles were used for chemical analysis. During the repeated freeze-thaw process, muscle pH, redness, hardness, and water holding capacity gradually decreased, whereas meat lightness and yellowness gradually increased. The amount of total volatile basic nitrogen significantly increased (P<0.05) and exceeded the threshold value for frozen meat after 5 repeated freeze-thaw cycles. The metmyoglobin proportion, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) and protein carbonyl content in rabbit meat samples increased with a higher number of freeze-thaw cycles (P<0.05), and the proportions of these compounds were positively correlated. During the repeated freeze-thaw process, extractable haeme iron levels significantly decreased (P<0.05), and non-haeme iron levels markedly increased (P<0.05). An sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis indicated that the degradation of both water- and salt-soluble proteins was more prevalent in samples subjected to higher numbers of freeze-thaw cycles. Additionally, a principal component analysis identified good correlations between physicochemical properties (TBARS, protein carbonyl levels and metmyoglobin content) and quality parameters (thawing loss, redness, lightness and hardness). Taken together, we conclude that the repeated freeze-thaw process can strongly affect rabbit meat quality as well as its physicochemical properties.
The future of work: how G20 countries can leverage digital-industrial innovations into stronger highquality jobs growth
Authors: Annunziata Marco , Bourgeois Hendrik
Published: June 2018

The wave of digital-industrial innovation which begins to disrupt vast sectors of the global economy has fueled fear of a potential adverse impact on jobs and wages. This paper argues that digitalindustrial innovations make human capital more important than ever and the focus needs to shift to the complementarity between new technologies and human abilities. In particular, more effort should be devoted to (i) understanding what new skills will be needed, and how existing jobs will change; (ii) upgrading education and professional training schemes; (iii) reforming labor market institutions to support a future where a larger share of workers will change jobs and employers more frequently; (iv) reforming social benefits systems and bolstering social safety nets to smooth the economic transition and cushion the impact on the worst-affected workers. This paper presents an analysis of the challenges, addresses the key areas of action, and puts forward specific proposals, including policy actions, industry initiatives, and further research projects. The authors argue that the G20 could and should champion a comprehensive approach to leverage digital-industrial innovations for faster job creation and growth, with initiatives to re-align demand and supply of skills, labor market reforms, redesigned social safety nets, measures to promote digital innovation and facilitate the adoption of skills-augmenting technologies, and strengthened private sector training programs.
Carcass characteristics and meat quality of Holstein-Friesian  ×  Hereford cattle of different sex categories and slaughter ages
Authors: Pogorzelska-Przybyłek Paulina , Nogalski Zenon , Sobczuk-Szul Monika , Purwin Cezary , Kubiak Dorota
Published: June 2018

Abstract. When dairy cattle production predominates, the quantity and quality of beef
can be increased through commercial crossing of beef bulls with dairy cows
and creating herds for the purpose of beef production. This experiment was
conducted to compare carcass traits in young bulls and steers, produced by
crossing Holstein-Friesian (HF) cows with Hereford (HH) bulls and slaughtered
at 15 and 18 months of age. One half of 32 young
bulls were castrated at 2 or 3 weeks of age. Starting at 7 months of age,
they received grass silage supplemented with concentrates. At the end of the
fattening period, the animals were slaughtered, carcass quality and the
quality of meat from m. longissimus thoracis were evaluated. It was found
that unlike steers, bulls can be slaughtered at a later age because their
carcass traits improved over time and carcass fat content increased only
insignificantly. Meat from steers had higher intramuscular fat content (1.20
and 2.35 % in bulls and steers slaughtered at 15 months of age,
respectively; 1.89 and 3.79 % in bulls and steers slaughtered at 18
months of age, respectively), it was tenderer and juicier than meat from
bulls, and its sensory quality improved with age. The intramuscular fat (IMF)
of steers was characterized by a more desirable n-6 ∕ n-3 polyunsaturated
fatty acid (PUFA) ratio, whereas the IMF of bulls had higher concentrations
of conjugated linoleic acid and n-3 PUFAs. Beef from steers is a good choice
for consumers who appreciate high-quality meat. The results of this study may
encourage producers to raise steers for beef.
Vertical distributions of aerosol optical properties during the spring 2016 ARIAs airborne campaign in the North China Plain
Authors: Wang Fei , Li Zhanqing , Ren Xinrong , Jiang Qi , He Hao , Dickerson Russell R. , Dong Xiaobo , Lv Feng
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Vertical distributions of aerosol optical properties derived from
measurements made during 11 aircraft flights over the North China Plain (NCP)
in May–June 2016 during the Air Chemistry Research In Asia (ARIAs) were
analyzed. Aerosol optical data from in situ aircraft measurements show good
correlation with ground-based measurements. The regional variability of
aerosol optical profiles such as aerosol scattering and backscattering,
absorption, extinction, single scattering albedo (SSA), and the
Ångström exponent (α) are thoroughly
characterized for the first time over the NCP. The SSA at 550 nm showed a regional mean value of
0.85 ± 0.02 with moderate to strong absorption and the α ranged
from 0.49 to 2.53 (median 1.53), indicating both mineral dust and
accumulation-mode aerosols. Most of the aerosol particles were located in the lowest 2 km
of the atmosphere. We describe three typical planetary boundary layer (PBL)
scenarios and associated transport pathways as well as the correlation
between aerosol scattering coefficients and relative humidity (RH). Aerosol
scattering coefficients decreased slowly with height in the clean PBL
condition, but decreased sharply above the PBL under polluted conditions,
which showed a strong correlation (R2 ≥ 0.78) with ambient RH.
Back-trajectory analysis shows that clean air masses generally originated
from the distant northwestern part of China, while most of the polluted air
masses were from the heavily polluted interior and coastal areas near the
campaign region.
Light absorption of brown carbon in eastern China based on 3-year multi-wavelength aerosol optical property observations and an improved absorption Ångström exponent segregation method
Authors: Wang Jiaping , Nie Wei , Cheng Yafang , Shen Yicheng , Chi Xuguang , Wang Jiandong , Huang Xin , Xie Yuning , Sun Peng , Xu Zheng , Qi Ximeng , Su Hang , Ding Aijun
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Brown carbon (BrC), a certain group of organic carbon (OC) with strong
absorption from the visible (VIS) to ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths, makes a
considerable contribution to light absorption on both global and regional
scales. A high concentration and proportion of OC has been reported in China,
but studies of BrC absorption based on long-term observations are rather
limited in this region. In this study, we reported 3-year results of light
absorption of BrC based on continuous measurement at the Station for
Observing Regional Processes of the Earth System (SORPES) in the Yangtze
River Delta, China, combined with Mie theory calculation. Light absorption of
BrC was obtained using an improved absorption Ångström exponent (AAE)
segregation method. The AAE of non-absorbing coated black carbon (BC) at each
time step is calculated based on Mie theory simulation, together with single
particle soot photometer (SP2) and aethalometer observations. By using this
improved method, the variation of the AAE over time is taken into
consideration, making it applicable for long-term analysis. The annual
average light absorption coefficient of BrC (babs_BrC) at
370 nm was 6.3 Mm−1 at the SORPES station. The contribution of BrC to
total aerosol absorption (PBrC) at 370 nm ranged from 10.4 to
23.9 % (10th and 90th percentiles, respectively), and reached up to
∼ 33 % in the open-biomass-burning-dominant season and winter. Both
babs_BrC and PBrC exhibited clear seasonal cycles
with two peaks in later spring/early summer (May–June, babs_BrC ∼ 6 Mm−1, PBrC ∼ 17 %) and winter
(December, babs_BrC ∼ 15 Mm−1, PBrC
∼ 22 %), respectively. Lagrangian modeling and the chemical
signature observed at the site suggested that open biomass burning and
residential coal/biofuel burning were the dominant sources influencing BrC in
the two seasons, respectively.
Wind turbine wake measurements with automatically adjusting scanning trajectories in a multi-Doppler lidar setup
Authors: Wildmann Norman , Vasiljevic Nikola , Gerz Thomas
Published: June 2018

Abstract. In the context of the Perdigão 2017 experiment, the German Aerospace
Center (DLR) deployed three long-range scanning Doppler lidars with the dedicated
purpose of investigating the wake of a single wind turbine at the
experimental site. A novel method was tested for the first time to
investigate wake properties with ground-based lidars over a wide range of
wind directions. For this method, the three lidars, which were space- and
time-synchronized using the WindScanner software, were programmed to measure
with crossing beams at individual points up to 10 rotor diameters downstream
of the wind turbine. Every half hour, the measurement points were adapted to the
current wind direction to obtain a high availability of wake measurements in
changing wind conditions. The linearly independent radial velocities where
the lidar beams intersect allow the calculation of the wind vector at those
points. Two approaches to estimating the prevailing wind direction were tested
throughout the campaign. In the first approach, velocity azimuth display (VAD) scans of one of the
lidars were used to calculate a 5 min average of wind speed and wind
direction every half hour, whereas later in the experiment 5 min
averages of sonic anemometer measurements of a meteorological mast close to
the wind turbine became available in real time and were used for the scanning
adjustment. Results of wind speed deficit measurements are presented for two
measurement days with varying northwesterly winds, and it is evaluated how
well the lidar beam intersection points match the actual wake location. The
new method allowed wake measurements to be obtained over the whole measurement
period, whereas a static scanning setup would only have captured short
periods of wake occurrences.
Airborne lidar measurements of aerosol and ozone above the Canadian oil sands region
Authors: Aggarwal Monika , Whiteway James , Seabrook Jeffrey , Gray Lawrence , Strawbridge Kevin , Liu Peter , O'Brien Jason , Li Shao-Meng , McLaren Robert
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Aircraft-based lidar measurements of atmospheric aerosol and ozone were
conducted to study air pollution from the oil sands extraction industry in
northern Alberta. Significant amounts of aerosol were observed in the
polluted air within the surface boundary layer, up to heights of 1 to 1.6 km above ground. The ozone mixing ratio measured in the polluted boundary
layer air directly above the oil sands industry was equal to or less than the
background ozone mixing ratio. On one of the flights, the lidar measurements
detected a layer of forest fire smoke above the surface boundary layer in
which the ozone mixing ratio was substantially greater than the background.
Measurements of the linear depolarization ratio in the aerosol backscatter
were obtained with a ground-based lidar and this aided in the discrimination
between the separate emission sources from industry and forest fires. The
retrieval of ozone abundance from the lidar measurements required the
development of a method to account for the interference from the substantial
aerosol content within the polluted boundary layer.
Developing a GIS-based water poverty and rainwater harvesting suitability maps for domestic use in the Dead Sea region (West Bank, Palestine)
Authors: Shadeed Sameer M. , Judeh Tariq G. , Almasri Mohammad N.
Published: June 2018

Abstract. In Dead Sea region as arid to semi-arid regions, water shortage and the inability to satisfy the increasing domestic water demand have been threatening the sustainable development. In such situations, domestic rainwater harvesting is considered an efficient management option to combat water poverty. This paper aims to develop a domestic water poverty (DWP) and domestic rainwater harvesting suitability (DRWHS) maps for the West Bank, Palestine (5860 km2). The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) together with the GIS-based weighted overly summation process (WOSP) was utilized in the development of these maps. A total of 12 and four different assessing criteria were used in the development of DWP and DRWHS maps, respectively. Results of DWP map indicate that about 57 % of the West Bank is under high to very high domestic water poverty. On the other hand, the DRWHS map indicates that about 60 % of the West Bank can be classified as high to very high suitable areas for domestic rainwater harvesting. Furthermore, DWP and DRWHS maps intersection indicates that around 31 % of the West Bank areas could be classified as high potential locations for adopting rainwater harvesting techniques for domestic purposes. Finally, the developed maps are of high value for different stakeholders to realize the importance of promoting rainwater harvesting for a self-sustaining and self-reliant domestic water supply in high water poverty areas in the Dead Sea region generally and in the West Bank particularly.