bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economics and energetics in hybrid sunflower cultivation as influenced by irrigation and fertilizer management practices
Authors: Alipatra Ayon , Banerjee Hirak
Published: September 2018

The objective of the study was to assess economic feasibility and environmental sustainability in sunflower cultivation as influenced by irrigation and fertilization. A field experiment was conducted during the winter (November-March) of 2011-12 and 2012-2013 in farmer’s field at Madandanga under Chakdaha block of Nadia district in West Bengal (23°22.221'N latitude and 88°22.221'E longitude with an altitude of 12 m above mean sea level), under sub-humid subtropical climatic condition. The crop irrigated thrice (I30/60/80) outperformed other crops which had reduced moisture (I30 and I30/60) in respect of gross revenue (GR). Irrespective of irrigation levels, application of N80P40K40B1.5S25 treatment paid the highest additional GR over RDF. The higher incremental cost-benefit ratio (ICBR) for ‘Aditya’ was observed with N80P40K40B1.5 at all irrigation levels. Estimated energy indices revealed that net energy gain (NEG) was the highest with the supply of N80P40K40B1.5S25 at all irrigation levels. However, maximum values of energy ratio (ER) and energy productivity (EP) were recorded with N80P40K40B1.5 while total specific energy (SE) was higher with N80P40K40S25 for all irrigation levels. Recommended dose of fertilizer (N80P40K40) was observed to be the most energy-intensive treatment with higher energy intensiveness (EI) values. The treatment N80P40K40VC5 was found to be the most energy-efficient treatment with lowest energy intensiveness (EI) values at all irrigation levels, closely followed by the N80P40K40B1.5S25 treatment.
Assessment of triasulfuron on weed dynamics and yield of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Tewari Samartha , Singh Rohitashav , Nath Anil , Pandey Deepak
Published: September 2018

A field experiment was managed during kharif season of 2014 in G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (Uttarakhand) to assess the outcome of applying dissimilar rates of triasulfuron on the  transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.) associated weeds. Treatments composed of triasulfuron at three different rates, metsulfuron methyl, ethoxysulfuron, 2, 4-D with 2 checks (weed free and untreated). Experiment was carried out in Randomised block Design with 8 treatments and 3 replications. Grassy weeds, broad leaf weeds and sedges were observed during the crop growth period. Triasulfuron at 12 g ha-1 proved most efficient in controlling weeds at 60 and 90 days after transplanting (DAT) with 44.4 % and 59.6 % WCE respectively. Minimum weed dry matter (65.1 g m2) was observed with triasulfuron at 12 g ha-1. Out of all the herbicidal treatments, triasulfuron at 12 g ha-1 gave the paramount grain yield of rice (5786 kg ha-1) which was significantly surpassing all other herbicidal treatments, while it was minimum in metsulfuron methyl at 4 g ha-1 (4417 kg ha-1).
Agronomic fortification of zinc in potato production in Indian context: A review
Authors: Sarkar Sukamal , Banerjee Hirak , Sengupta Kajal
Published: September 2018

Micronutrient has received greater attention in crop production because the widespread deficiency of micronutrient is coming forward gradually. The key reasons for such deficiency are an intensification of cropping system, adoption of high yielding cultivars of crops and modern irrigation facilities. The greater use of high analysis chemical fertilizers instead of organic sources of plant nutrients (farmyard manure, composts etc.) is also another contributing factor to this problem. This modern technology of crop production causes a serious depletion of different micronutrients reserve in soil resulting in their severe deficiency in many countries. Potato is the widely cultivated vegetable crops throughout India. In potato cultivation, the application of some micro-nutrients (zinc/Zn, boron/B etc.) causes significant increase in foliage at the initial stage of crop growth, while the translocation of assimilates become higher in later stages, ultimately leads to higher yield. Zinc plays a very important role in increasing the production as well as the quality of potato tubers. Zinc loading in potato through foliar as well as soil-applied Zn increases Zn concentration in potato tuber up to 3-4 times which is quite higher than most of the commonly known crops. Zn fertilization has been found to increase ascorbic acid content, but it reduces the tyrosine and total phenol content in tubers, and thereby improves the processing quality. Finally, Zn-fortified potato can be a potential option for mitigating wide spread Zn-driven malnutrition in the Asian countries.
Effect on soil health of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) cultivation with Integrated Nutrient Management
Authors: Pawar Rohit , Barkule Santosh , Kirti Shruti , Rasal Dipesh
Published: September 2018

Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L. (Cauliflower) is an important commercial vegetable crop grown all over the world. In order to meet the growing demand of burgeoning population, large amounts of herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers are being applied to the fields every year to achieve maximum production leading to deleterious environmental effects.The present investigation ‘Integrated nutrient management in cauliflower was undertaken at the Instructional Farm of Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Latur during the Rabi season. The experiment laid out in Randomized Block Design (R.B.D.) with fourteen treatments replicated thrice. The treatment comprises with RDF (120:80:40 NPK kg/ha.), FYM (10 t/ha), Azotobacter and Azospirillum (10 kg/ha). The variety Snowball – 16 was selected for the study. The data regarding soil analysis after harvesting, the maximum available nitrogen (265.66 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (23.26 kg ha-1) and available potassium (415.33 kg ha-1) were recorded in highest dose of INM i.e. 100 % RDF + FYM + Azotobacter + Azospirillum(T2) and is was statistically at par with T6 and T8. The maximum organic carbon (0.93 per cent) was recorded in the treatment 75 % RDF + FYM + Azotobacter + Azospirillum(T6). There were no significant differences of INM treatments observed on soil pH and electrical conductivity. This result suggested that 25% chemical fertilizers can be reduced without any compromise on fertility status of the soil for cauliflower crop production in sub-tropical condition.
More is More in Language Learning: Reconsidering the Less-is-More Hypothesis
Authors: Brooks Patricia J. , Kempe Vera
Published: September 2018

The Less-is-More hypothesis was proposed to explain age-of-acquisition effects in first language (L1) acquisition and second language (L2) attainment. We scrutinize different renditions of the hypothesis by examining how learning outcomes are affected by (1) limited cognitive capacity, (2) reduced interference resulting from less prior knowledge, and (3) simplified language input. While there is little-to-no evidence of benefits of limited cognitive capacity, there is ample support for a More-is-More account linking enhanced capacity with better L1- and L2-learning outcomes, and reduced capacity with childhood language disorders. Instead, reduced prior knowledge (relative to adults) may afford children with greater flexibility in inductive inference; this contradicts the idea that children benefit from a more constrained hypothesis space. Finally, studies of child-directed speech (CDS) confirm benefits from less complex input at early stages, but also emphasize how greater lexical and syntactic complexity of the input confers benefits in L1-attainment.
Prosocial behavior relates to the rate and timing of cortical thinning from adolescence to young adulthood
Authors: Ferschmann Lia , Vijayakumar Nandita , Grydeland Håkon , Overbye Knut , Sederevicius Donatas , Due-Tønnessen Paulina , Fjell Anders M. , Walhovd Kristine Beate , Pfeifer Jennifer H , Tamnes Christian K.
Published: September 2018

Prosocial behavior, or voluntary actions that intentionally benefit others, relate to desirable developmental outcomes such as peer acceptance, while lack of prosocial behavior has been associated with several neurodevelopmental disorders. Mapping the biological foundations of prosociality may thus aid our understanding of both normal and abnormal development, yet how prosociality relates to cortical development is largely unknown. Here, relations between prosociality, as measured by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (self-report), and changes in thickness across the cortical mantle were examined using mixed-effects models. The sample consisted of 169 healthy individuals (92 females) aged 12-26 with repeated MRI from up to 3 time points, at approximately 3-year intervals (301 scans). In regions associated with social cognition and behavioral control, higher prosociality was associated with greater cortical thinning during early-to-middle adolescence, followed by attenuation of this process during the transition to young adulthood. Comparatively, lower prosociality was related to initially slower thinning, followed by comparatively protracted thinning into the mid-twenties. This study showed that prosocial behavior is associated with regional development of cortical thickness in adolescence and young adulthood. The results suggest that the rate of thinning in these regions, as well as its timing, may be factors related to prosocial behavior.
Getting sensitized about malpractice lawsuits in practice of Pathology
Authors: Jha Runa
Published: September 2018

Medical malpractice is defined as any act or omission by a physician during treatment of a atient that deviates from accepted norms of practice in the medical community and causes an injury to the patient. In the United States, Medical malpractice is a specific subset of tort law that deals with professional negligence. “Tort” is the Norman word for “wrong,” and tort law is a body of law that creates and provides remedies for civil wrongs that are distinct from ontractual duties or criminal wrongs.Although the laws of medical malpractice differ significantly between nations, as a broad general rule liability follows when a health care practitioner does not show a fair, reasonable and competent degree of skill when providing medical care to a patient.
Pengaruh Bimbingan Kelompok dan Self-Efficacy terhadap Peningkatan Keterampilan Sosial Siswa
Authors: Muzdalifah Muzdalifah , Nur'aini Nur'aini
Published: September 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untukmengetahui pengaruh bimbingan kelompok (BKP) terhadap keterampilan sosial siswa. Mengetahui pengaruh self-efficacy terhadap keterampilan sosial siswa. Mengetahui interaksi antara BKP dan self-efficacyterhadap keterampilan sosial siswa. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian quasi eksperimen dengan desain factorial 2x2. Subjek penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas VIII SMP Negeri 2 Tanjung Tiram sebanyak 43 orang yang terdiri dari dua kelompok kelas, dimana kelas pertama sebagai kelas eksperimen diterapkan BKP Modeling dan kelas kedua sebagai kelas kontrol diterapkan BKP Homeroom. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu kuesioner yang dinyatakan valid dan reliabel. Data dianalisis menggunakan analisis ANAVA dua jalur. Dari hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa: Ada pengaruh bimbingan kelompok (BKP) terhadap keterampilan sosial siswa SMP Negeri 2 Tanjung Tiram. Ada perbedaan antara BKP Modeling dengan BKP Homeroom dalam mempengaruhi keterampilan sosial siswa. Tidak ada perbedaan antara self-eficacy rendah dan self-eficacy tinggi dalam mempengaruhi keterampilan sosial siswa.  BKP Modeling sangat baik digunakan dalam meningkatkan keterampilan sosial siswa.
Dari Pendidikan Khas ke Pendidikan Pemulihan: Dua Program Masalah Pembelajaran
Authors: Fong Chiang Ee
Published: September 2018

Pengalaman mengajar Pendidikan Khas dan Pendidikan Pemulihan adalah istimewa.  Dua jenis pendidikan yang berkaitan dengan murid-murid kurang upaya mempunyai banyak kesamaan dan perbezaan yang jauh beza.  Dengan mengkaji secara mendalam mengenai definisi program, ciri-ciri murid khas bermasalah pembelajaran dan murid pemuliahan, matlamat, pentaksiran, kurikulum serta kaedah mengajar dua jenis pendidikan tersebut, pengetahuan dan kefahaman tentang banyak aspek dua program dapat ditingkatkan.  Juga, banyak pandangan yang agak mengelirukan dapat dijelaskan dan banyak wawasan (insight) diluar jangkaan dapat diperolehi.
Evaluation of a clinic-based quality structure for Special Access Programme medicines to treat parasitic infections
Authors: Melvin Rochelle , Thompson Courtney , Peermohamed Shaqil , Klowak Michael , Klowak Stefanie , Boggild Andrea K
Published: September 2018

Background: Frequently used drugs in our unit are only available through Health Canada’s Special Access Programme (SAP) or a compounding pharmacy. A tracking system was implemented to evaluate the turnaround time (TAT) and success rate of SAP applications for parasitic infections. Methods: We undertook a retrospective review of SAP logs from 2013 to 2015 inclusive, with outcomes of TAT and initial application success rates over time. Analyses were stratified by drug indication. Results: The mean TATs for all indications from 2013 to 2015 were 9.02 (SD 10.11) days, 7.04 (SD 7.6) days, and 7.25 (SD 8.97) days, respectively (p = 0.48). First-time success rates for ivermectin from 2013 to 2015 were 96%, 84%, and 71%, respectively. First-time success rates for albendazole from 2013 to 2015 were 74%, 60%, and 63%, respectively. In 2013, 14% (6/44) of initial SAP requests received an incomplete notification compared with 25% (14/57) and 32% (25/78) in 2014 and 2015, respectively (p = 0.08). Conclusions: Timely initiation of antihelminthic therapy is critical to reducing the risk of adverse clinical outcomes and a decreased quality of life from parasitic infections such as strongyloidiasis. Our findings document a prolonged TAT of non-formulary medications used to treat common helminthiases in Canada.
Patrimoine et territorialisations: les imaginaires culturels du terroir dans la région des Laurentides au Québec
Authors: Paquette Jonathan , Lacassagne Aurélie , Nelson Robin
Published: September 2018

Cet article s’interroge sur le terroir comme mode de production d’un patrimoine. En s’intéressant au cas du Québec, et en particulier à la région des Laurentides, cet article met en évidence les processus patrimoniaux qui sont à l’œuvre dans le mouvement du terroir. Cet article illustre comment le patrimoine et les imaginaires patrimoniaux participent à la construction récente des régions et d’une nouvelle ruralité au Québec à travers de nouvelles productions, de nouveaux produits et des itinéraires agro-patrimoniaux. Les modes de territorialisation qui sont à l’œuvre révèlent des tentatives de produire de nouveaux référents et de nouveaux marquages pour définir l’espace régional. En somme, dans une perspective critique, cet article met en évidence le caractère productif des appels au patrimoine.
The Keystone of the Neighbourhood: Gender, Collective Action, and Working-Class Heritage Strategy in Pointe-Saint-Charles, Montreal
Authors: Hammond Cynthia Imogen
Published: September 2018

In 1973, in the deindustrializing, impoverished Montreal neighbourhood of Pointe-Saint-Charles, neighbourhood activists—normally preoccupied with jobs, housing, and food security—made the fate of an 82-year-old fire station their top concern. Pointe-Saint-Charles was the proposed site for a new highway construction: le Projet Georges-Vanier. If built, this artery would have sliced the working-class community in half, destroying the fire station as well as a much-loved public park, and displacing about 140 families in turn. In their organized resistance to this plan, Comité Action-Boulevard recognized and mobilized around the fire station as the keystone without which the plan could not proceed. This article situates an important but under-studied moment in Montreal’s preservation struggles in the pivotal early 1970s. It proposes this story as a powerful illustration of the idea that heritage is not an object but rather a social, cultural, and political process, and considers the fragility of collective memory about how this building was saved. Part of that fragility arises from a conundrum: the women who were largely behind this action worked collectively under organizations rather than under their own names, as individuals. The action to save the fire station coincided with a period in the neighbourhood’s history in which women were gradually emerging from restrictive gender norms. In searching for the complete story of how the community of Pointe-Saint-Charles saved their fire station, I have encountered a partial, but compelling story of how the women of an impoverished neighbourhood took power over their own built environment, activating what Iain J.M. Robertson calls a “heritage from below.”
Інформація, форми її фіксації, збереження і передачі як визначник періодизації розвитку суспільства
Authors: Забіяка Іван
Published: September 2018

Автор пропонує свою періодизацію розвитку суспільства, в основу якої бере принцип фіксації, збереження й передачі інформації.
Специфіка новин у релігійних інтернет-виданнях України
Authors: Скленар Ігор
Published: September 2018

Розглянуто типи релігійних веб-ресурсів України, особливості їх новинної інформації. Також запропоновано шляхи покращення інформаційних повідомлень на українських релігійних сайтах.
Модульне проектування мережевих журнальних видань як спосіб підвищення якості сприймання контенту
Authors: Фомішина Ольга
Published: September 2018

Висвітлено теоретико-практичні аспекти функціонування модульних сіток у процесі проектування мережевих журнальних видань, зазначено вплив модульного проектування на якість сприймання контенту, структурно-композиційної організації видання, виробничого процесу.
Чому Москва боїться українського друкованого слова, або Історія про те, як імперська влада через заборону книг знесилювала дух російських українців
Authors: Тимошик Микола
Published: September 2018

Феномен справді незбагнений: кілька мільйонів українців, які віддавна мешкають на неозорих просторах Росії як її громадяни, нібито добровільно відмовилися від свого національного «я». Вони давно вже змирилися з тим, що в тій державі немає шкіл чи бодай класів із українською мовою навчання, заникли українознавчі кафедри при університетах. На противагу українським реаліям, де російської більш ніж треба, там не друкуються українською газети, журнали, книги, не мовить мовою їхніх пращурів радіо, телебачення. Упродовж останніх років українці Москви, як і всієї Росії, мовчазно спостерігали за тим, як у їхній столиці конав останній оберіг генетичної пам’яті — Українська бібліотека в Москві.
Analisis Faktor-Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Pengungkapan Tanggung Jawab Sosial (Studi Kasus Pada Perusahaan-Perusahaan Jasa Yang Terdaftar Di Bursa Efek Indonesia)
Authors: Haq Ahsanul , Mahyuni Mahyuni
Published: September 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi pengungkapan tanggung jawab sosial pada laporan tahunan perusahaan-perusahaan jasa di Indonesia. Faktor-faktor yang diduga mempengaruhi kebijakan   pengungkapan tanggung jawab sosial perusahaan adalah ukuran perusahaan, leverage, profitabilitas, dan ukuran dewan komisaris perusahaan.

Populasi dari penelitian ini adalah semua perusahaan jasa yang listing di BEI tahun 2014. Dari keseluruhan populasi tersebut, yang menjadi sampel  penelitian  berjumlah 100  perusahaan jasa yang ditentukan melalui metode purposive sampling. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode konten analisis dalam pengungkapan CSR dengan menggunakan Reporting Guidelines yang termuat dalam General   Reporting   Initiatives   (GRI). Teknik analisis data dilakukan dengan uji asumsi klasik dan analisis regresi linear berganda dengan menggunakan bantuan SPSS 19.0 for windows.

Setelah dilakukan analisis regresi berganda didapatkan hasil variabel ukuran (size) perusahaan dan profitabilitas berpengaruh signifikan terhadap pengungkapan tanggung jawab sosial perusahaan. Sedangkan leverage dan ukuran dewan komisaris tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap pengungkapan tanggung jawab sosial perusahaan
Meningkatkan Loyalitas Pelanggan Bisnis Kuliner Melalui Inovasi Produk Dan Inovasi Proses
Authors: Hartelina Hartelina
Published: September 2018

Bisnis kuliner mengalami perkembangan yang sangat pesat. Tingkat persainganpun terjadi semakin ketat. Para pelaku bisnis kuliner berusaha untuk melakukan inovasi baik inovasi produk maupun inovasi proses untuk memastikan bisnisnya mampu bersaing. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mendapatkan bukti empiris mengenai pengaruh inovasi produk dan inovasi proses terhadap loyalitas pelanggan café dan restoran di Kota Bandung. Desain/Metode Penelitian menggunakan metode kuantitatif, dengan pendekatan verifikatif. Data dikumpulkan dengan kuesioner dengan respondennya adalah pelanggan café dan restoran. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan multiple regression. Temuan penelitian mampu membuktikan bahwa secara empiris, inovasi produk dan inovasi proses berpengaruh signifikan terhadap loyalitas pelanggan. Begitu juga secara simultan, keduanya merupakan determinan yang signifikan. Sebagai implikasi dari hasil penelitian ini, sudah sewajarnya perusahaan café dan restoran menaruh perhatian besar pada upaya-upaya inovasi produk dan inovasi proses, guna meningkatkan loyalitas pelanggan. Selain itu perlu juga dikaji variable lain yang turut menentukan peningkatan loyalitas pelanggan
Scalloping and Stress Concentration in DRIE-Manufactured Comb-Drives
Authors: Bertini Silvia , Verotti Matteo , Bagolini Alvise , Bellutti Pierliugi , Ruta Giuseppe , Belfiore Nicola Pio
Published: September 2018

In the last decades, microelectromechanical systems have been increasing their number of degrees of freedom and their structural complexity. Hence, most recently designed MEMSs have required higher mobility than in the past and higher structural strength and stability. In some applications, device thickness increased up to the order of tens (or hundred) of microns, which nowadays can be easily obtained by means of DRIE Bosch process. Unfortunately, scalloping introduces stress concentration regions in some parts of the structure. Stress concentration is a dangerous source of strength loss for the whole structure and for comb-drives actuators which may suffer from side pull-in. This paper presents an analytical approach to characterize stress concentrations in DRIE micro-machined MEMS. The method is based on the linear elasticity equations, the de Saint-Venant Principle, and the boundary value problem for the case of a torsional state of the beam. The results obtained by means of this theoretical method are then compared with those obtained by using two other methods: one based on finite difference discretization of the equations, and one based on finite element analysis (FEA). Finally, the new theoretical approach yields results which are in accordance with the known value of the stress concentration factor for asymptotically null radius notches.
Field Archaeologists as Eyewitnesses to Site Looting
Authors: Bowman Balestrieri Blythe Alison
Published: September 2018

In a recent worldwide study on the nature, scope, and frequency of archaeological site looting, the vast majority of field archaeologists reported having had multiple encounters with archaeological site looters both on- and off-site. Despite the criminalization of looting in most countries’ domestic statutory schemes, nearly half of surveyed field archaeologists do not report looting activity to external law enforcement or archaeological authorities when they encounter it. The rationales for their actions—or inactions—are examined within a criminological framework, and field archaeologists’ perspectives on looters as “criminals” and “victims” are explored. The paper concludes with a consideration that the criminalization of looting creates an emergent duty to report among archaeologists, and how they choose to address site looting changes their role in and relationship to the trade in illicitly obtained antiquities.
Insonation of Systemically Delivered Cisplatin-Loaded Microbubbles Significantly Attenuates Nephrotoxicity of Chemotherapy in Experimental Models of Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Chen Hang-Kang , Zhang Shu-Mei , Chang Junn-Liang , Chen Hsin-Chien , Lin Yi-Chun , Shih Cheng-Ping , Sytwu Huey-Kang , Fang Mei-Cho , Lin Yuan-Yung , Kuo Chao-Yin , Liao Ai-Ho , Chu Yueng-Hsiang , Wang Chih-Hung
Published: September 2018

The use of cisplatin (CDDP), the most common chemotherapy drug for head and neck cancer, is limited by its undesirable side effects, especially nephrotoxicity. We investigated ultrasound microbubbles (USMB) as a tool to increase the local intra-tumoral CDDP level while decreasing systemic CDDP cytotoxicity. We allowed CDDP to interact with human serum albumin and then sonicated the resulting CDDP‒albumin complex to generate CDDP-loaded MBs (CDDP-MBs). We then established a head-and-neck tumor-bearing mouse model by implanting FaDu-fLuc/GFP cells into severe combined immunodeficiency mice and used IVIS® bioluminescence imaging to determine the tumor xenograft formation and size. Twice weekly (until Day 33), we administered CDDP only, CDDP + MBs + US, CDDP-MBs, or CDDP-MBs + US intravenously by tail-vein injection. The US treatment was administered at the tumor site immediately after injection. The in vivo systemic distribution of CDDP indicated that the kidney was the most vulnerable organ, followed by the liver, and then the inner ear. However, CDDP uptake into the kidney and liver was significantly decreased in both the CDDP-MBs and CDDP-MBs + US groups, suggesting that MB binding significantly reduced the systemic toxicity of CDDP. The CDDP-MBs + US treatment reduced the tumor size as effectively as conventional CDDP-only chemotherapy. Therefore, the combination of CDDP-MBs with ultrasound is effective and significantly attenuates CDDP-associated nephrotoxicity, indicating a promising clinical potential for this approach.
PTPRT and PTPRD Deleterious Mutations and Deletion Predict Bevacizumab Resistance in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Hsu Hung-Chih , Lapke Nina , Chen Shu-Jen , Lu Yen-Jung , Jhou Ren-Shiang , Yeh Chien-Yuh , Tsai Wen-Sy , Hung Hsin-Yuan , Hsieh Jason Chia-Hsun , Yang Tsai-Sheng , Thiam Tan Kien , You Jeng-Fu
Published: September 2018

Background: Bevacizumab-based regimens are used as standard treatments for colorectal cancer. Unfortunately, there are no established predictive markers for bevacizumab response. Methods: Tumor samples from 36 metastatic colorectal cancer patients treated with bevacizumab plus chemotherapy were analyzed by next-generation sequencing of all coding exons of more than 400 genes. Single gene and signaling pathway analyses were performed to correlate genomic data with response. Results: Among the genes most frequently mutated in our cohort, only mutations in PTPRT, a phosphatase involved in JAK/STAT signaling, were associated with response status, with deleterious mutations being enriched in non-responders. Pathway analysis revealed that deleterious mutations in genes of the JAK/STAT pathway, namely in PTPRT and the related gene PTPRD, correlated with resistance. Mutations in RTK/PI3K/RAS, Wnt and TGFβ pathways did not associate with response. Lack of response was observed in all patients with deleterious mutations or copy number loss of PTPRT/PTPRD (n = 10), compared to only 30.8% (n = 8) of patients without such alterations (relative risk, 3.25; 95% CI, 1.83–5.79, p = 0.0003). Similarly, PTPRT/PTPRD deleterious alterations were associated with shorter progression-free survival, an association that was retained in multivariate analysis (HR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.47–7.54; p = 0.0038). Conclusion: Deleterious alterations in PTPRT/PTPRD are potential biomarkers for bevacizumab resistance.
Spatial and Temporal Rainfall Variability over the Mountainous Central Pindus (Greece)
Authors: Stefanidis Stefanos , Stathis Dimitrios
Published: September 2018

In this study, the authors evaluated the spatial and temporal variability of rainfall over the central Pindus mountain range. To accomplish this, long-term (1961–2016) monthly rainfall data from nine rain gauges were collected and analyzed. Seasonal and annual rainfall data were subjected to Mann–Kendall tests to assess the possible upward or downward statistically significant trends and to change-point analyses to detect whether a change in the rainfall time series mean had taken place. Additionally, Sen’s slope method was used to estimate the trend magnitude, whereas multiple regression models were developed to determine the relationship between rainfall and geomorphological factors. The results showed decreasing trends in annual, winter, and spring rainfalls and increasing trends in autumn and summer rainfalls, both not statistically significant, for most stations. Rainfall non-stationarity started to occur in the middle of the 1960s for the annual, autumn, spring, and summer rainfalls and in the early 1970s for the winter rainfall in most of the stations. In addition, the average magnitude trend per decade is approximately −1.9%, −3.2%, +0.7%, +0.2%, and +2.4% for annual, winter, autumn, spring, and summer rainfalls, respectively. The multiple regression model can explain 62.2% of the spatial variability in annual rainfall, 58.9% of variability in winter, 75.9% of variability in autumn, 55.1% of variability in spring, and 32.2% of variability in summer. Moreover, rainfall spatial distribution maps were produced using the ordinary kriging method, through GIS software, representing the major rainfall range within the mountainous catchment of the study area.
Trailing-Edge Flap Control for Mitigating Rotor Power Fluctuations of a Large-Scale Offshore Floating Wind Turbine under the Turbulent Wind Condition
Authors: Xu Bofeng , Feng Junheng , Wang Tongguang , Yuan Yue , Zhao Zhenzhou , Zhong Wei
Published: September 2018

A trailing-edge flap control strategy for mitigating rotor power fluctuations of a 5 MW offshore floating wind turbine is developed under turbulent wind inflow. The wind shear must be considered because of the large rotor diameter. The trailing-edge flap control strategy is based on the turbulent wind speed, the blade azimuth angle, and the platform motions. The rotor power is predicted using the free vortex wake method, coupled with the control strategy. The effect of the trailing-edge flap control on the rotor power is determined by a comparison with the rotor power of a turbine without a trailing-edge flap control. The optimal values of the three control factors are obtained. The results show that the trailing-edge flap control strategy is effective for improving the stability of the output rotor power of the floating wind turbine under the turbulent wind condition.
Logical Entropy: Introduction to Classical and Quantum Logical Information Theory
Authors: Ellerman David
Published: September 2018

Logical information theory is the quantitative version of the logic of partitions just as logical probability theory is the quantitative version of the dual Boolean logic of subsets. The resulting notion of information is about distinctions, differences and distinguishability and is formalized using the distinctions (“dits”) of a partition (a pair of points distinguished by the partition). All the definitions of simple, joint, conditional and mutual entropy of Shannon information theory are derived by a uniform transformation from the corresponding definitions at the logical level. The purpose of this paper is to give the direct generalization to quantum logical information theory that similarly focuses on the pairs of eigenstates distinguished by an observable, i.e., qudits of an observable. The fundamental theorem for quantum logical entropy and measurement establishes a direct quantitative connection between the increase in quantum logical entropy due to a projective measurement and the eigenstates (cohered together in the pure superposition state being measured) that are distinguished by the measurement (decohered in the post-measurement mixed state). Both the classical and quantum versions of logical entropy have simple interpretations as “two-draw” probabilities for distinctions. The conclusion is that quantum logical entropy is the simple and natural notion of information for quantum information theory focusing on the distinguishing of quantum states.
A Novel Constraint Handling Approach for the Optimal Reactive Power Dispatch Problem
Authors: Villa-Acevedo Walter M. , López-Lezama Jesús M. , Valencia-Velásquez Jaime A.
Published: September 2018

This paper presents an alternative constraint handling approach within a specialized genetic algorithm (SGA) for the optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) problem. The ORPD is formulated as a nonlinear single-objective optimization problem aiming at minimizing power losses while keeping network constraints. The proposed constraint handling approach is based on a product of sub-functions that represents permissible limits on system variables and that includes a specific goal on power loss reduction. The main advantage of this approach is the fact that it allows a straightforward verification of both feasibility and optimality. The SGA is examined and tested with the recommended constraint handling approach and the traditional penalization of deviations from feasible solutions. Several tests are run in the IEEE 30, 57, 118 and 300 bus test power systems. The results obtained with the proposed approach are compared to those offered by other metaheuristic techniques reported in the specialized literature. Simulation results indicate that the proposed genetic algorithm with the alternative constraint handling approach yields superior solutions when compared to other recently reported techniques.
Log Likelihood Ratio Based Relay Selection Scheme for Amplify and Forward Relaying with Three State Markov Channel
Authors: Sahajwani Manish , Jain Alok , Gamad Radheyshyam
Published: September 2018

This paper presents log likelihood ratio (LLR) based relay selection scheme for a cooperative amplify and forward relaying system. To evaluate the performance of the aforementioned system model, a three state Markov chain based fading environment has been presented to toggle among Rayleigh, Rician, and Nakagami-m fading environment. A simulation is carried out while assuming that there is no possibility of direct transmission from the source and destination terminal. Simulation results on the basis of Bit Error Rate (BER), Instantaneous Channel Capacity, and Outage probability have been presented and compared for different cases. In each case, the best performance of the proposed algorithm is obtained with a Binary Phase Shift Keying (BPSK) modulation scheme.
Ecohydraulogical Characteristic Index System of Schizopygopsis younghusbandi during Spawning Periods in the Yarlung Tsangpo River
Authors: Liu Qing-Yuan , Li Jia , An Rui-Dong , Li Yong
Published: September 2018

To address the species decline in aboriginal fish in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin and the lack of research on the habitat characteristics of fish spawning grounds, this paper studied the changing trends in runoff in spawning grounds and the habitat conditions characteristics of Schizopygopsis younghusbandi during the spawning period. In conventional approaches, inaccurate statistical results are obtained when a full river section is taken as the region to be assessed, so a new method for determining the statistical boundaries of characteristic indexes was proposed. By combining hydrological analyses, mathematical statistics, and numerical simulations, the statistical boundary of the index was determined, and a suitable range for the habitat characteristic indexes for the spawning field was finally obtained. The results showed that (1) the maximum percentage of the statistical boundary for the spawning grounds was 39% near the banks on both sides of the river; (2) the flow during the spawning period exhibited small variations, a short duration and a fluctuation cycle and was dominated by water rising events, and the interannual growth trend in the daily flow was obvious; and (3) during the spawning period, the flow velocity of the fish habitat was small, the turbulence level of the fluid was low, and the flow regime was stable. A suitable range for the habitat characteristic index of the target fish provided the basic data for the protection of aboriginal fish and was beneficial to maintain the balance of aquatic ecological system in the Yarlung Tsangpo River. The results of this study contribute to the rational development of water resources in the basin and the protection of species diversity and water environment.
Coexistence of TERT Promoter Mutations and the BRAF V600E Alteration and Its Impact on Histopathological Features of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in a Selected Series of Polish Patients
Authors: Rusinek Dagmara , Pfeifer Aleksandra , Krajewska Jolanta , Oczko-Wojciechowska Malgorzata , Handkiewicz-Junak Daria , Pawlaczek Agnieszka , Zebracka-Gala Jadwiga , Kowalska Malgorzata , Cyplinska Renata , Zembala-Nozynska Ewa , Chekan Mykola , Chmielik Ewa , Kropinska Aleksandra , Lamch Roman , Jurecka-Lubieniecka Beata , Jarzab Barbara , Czarniecka Agnieszka
Published: September 2018

TERT promoter (TERTp) mutations are important factors in papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs). They are associated with tumor aggressiveness, recurrence, and disease-specific mortality and their use in risk stratification of PTC patients has been proposed. In this study we investigated the prevalence of TERTp mutations in a cohort of Polish patients with PTCs and the association of these mutations with histopathological factors, particularly in coexistence with the BRAF V600E mutation. A total of 189 consecutive PTC specimens with known BRAF mutational status were evaluated. TERTp mutations were detected in 8.5% of cases (16/189) with the C228T mutation being the most frequent. In six of the PTC specimens (3.2%), four additional TERTp alterations were found, which included one known polymorphism (rs2735943) and three previously unreported alterations. The association analysis revealed that the TERTp hotspot mutations were highly correlated with the presence of the BRAF V600E mutation and their coexistence was significantly associated with gender, advanced patient age, advanced disease stage, presence of lymph node metastases, larger tumor size, and tumor-capsule infiltration. While correlations were identified, the possibility of TERTp mutations being key molecular modulators responsible for PTC aggressiveness requires further studies.
An Advanced Numerical Trajectory Model Tracks a Corn Earworm Moth Migration Event in Texas, USA
Authors: Wu Qiu-Lin , Hu Gao , Westbrook John , Sword Gregory , Zhai Bao-Ping
Published: September 2018

Many methods for trajectory simulation, such as Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT), have been developed over the past several decades and contributed greatly to our knowledge in insect migratory movement. To improve the accuracy of trajectory simulation, we developed a new numerical trajectory model, in which the self-powered flight behaviors of insects are considered and trajectory calculation is driven by high spatio-temporal resolution weather conditions simulated by the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. However, a rigorous evaluation of the accuracy of different trajectory models on simulated long-distance migration is lacking. Hence, in this study our trajectory model was evaluated by a migration event of the corn earworm moth, Helicoverpa zea, in Texas, USA on 20–22 March 1995. The results indicate that the simulated migration trajectories are in good agreement with occurrences of all pollen-marked male H. zea immigrants monitored in pheromone traps. Statistical comparisons in the present study suggest that our model performed better than the popularly-used HYSPLIT model in simulating migration trajectories of H. zea. This study also shows the importance of high-resolution atmospheric data and a full understanding of migration behaviors to the computational design of models that simulate migration trajectories of highly-flying insects.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Malignant Glaucoma after Different Procedures Treated with Pars Plana Vitrectomy: A 10-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Krėpštė Lina , Žemaitienė Reda , Miliauskas Arūnas
Published: September 2018

Background and objectives: Despite established common risk factors, malignant glaucoma (MG) remains a rare condition with challenging management. We aimed to analyze differences in risk factors for MG after different surgeries and outcomes after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included cases of MG treated with PPV between January 2005 and December 2015 in the Department of Ophthalmology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania. Results: A total of 39 cases were analyzed: 23 (59%) after cataract surgery, 13 (33.3%) after trabeculectomy, and 3 (7.7%) after other interventions. Characteristics among the groups did not differ. Intraocular lens refractive power was significantly higher in the cataract group, in which intraocular pressure (IOP) before MG was significantly greater in the affected eye. Normotension was achieved in 92.3%, and a normal anterior chamber in 75%. Additional measures included eye drops (n = 24), trabeculectomy (n = 5), bleb revision (n = 2), synechiotomy (n = 4), and cyclophotocoagulation (n = 1). The proportion of drop-free patients significantly increased after PPV compared with that before MG development (38.5% versus 15.4%). Complications were observed in 11 cases: choroidal detachments with spontaneous resolution (n = 2); retinal detachment (n = 1); constant mydriasis (n = 1), neovascular glaucoma (n = 1); obstruction of filtrating zone by iris (n = 1) and by blood clot (n = 1); posterior synechia formation causing IOP rise (n = 4 (all resolved after synechiotomy)). The cataract group experienced significantly fewer complications than the trabeculectomy group (17.4% vs. 53.8%, respectively). Conclusions: There were no differences in the risk of MG among the different surgeries. However, higher IOP in the predisposed eye (versus contra-lateral eye) could indicate additional risk of MG after cataract surgery. PPV afforded reliable treatment for MG and the possibility for glaucoma patients to discontinue topical treatment.
Removal of Tramp Elements within 7075 Alloy by Super-Gravity Aided Rheorefining Method
Authors: Guo Lei , Wen Xiaochun , Bao Qipeng , Guo Zhancheng
Published: September 2018

An investigation was made on the super-gravity aided rheorefining process of recycled 7075 aluminum alloy in order to remove tramp elements. The separation temperatures in this study were selected as 609 °C, 617 °C and 625 °C. And the gravity coefficients were set as 400 G, 700 G, 1000 G. The finely distributed impurity inclusions will aggregate to the grain boundaries of Al-enriched phase during heat treatment. In the field of super-gravity, the liquid phase composed of tramp elements Zn, Cu, Mg et al. will flow through the gaps between solid Al-enriched grains and form into filtrate. Both the weight of filtrate and removal ratio of tramp element improved with the increase of gravity coefficient. The total removal ratio of tramp element decreased with the fall of temperature due to the flowability deterioration of liquid phase. The time for effective separation of liquid/solid phases with super-gravity can be restricted within 1 min.
The History and Horizons of Microscale Neural Interfaces
Authors: Kozai Takashi D. Y.
Published: September 2018

Microscale neural technologies interface with the nervous system to record and stimulate brain tissue with high spatial and temporal resolution. These devices are being developed to understand the mechanisms that govern brain function, plasticity and cognitive learning, treat neurological diseases, or monitor and restore functions over the lifetime of the patient. Despite decades of use in basic research over days to months, and the growing prevalence of neuromodulation therapies, in many cases the lack of knowledge regarding the fundamental mechanisms driving activation has dramatically limited our ability to interpret data or fine-tune design parameters to improve long-term performance. While advances in materials, microfabrication techniques, packaging, and understanding of the nervous system has enabled tremendous innovation in the field of neural engineering, many challenges and opportunities remain at the frontiers of the neural interface in terms of both neurobiology and engineering. In this short-communication, we explore critical needs in the neural engineering field to overcome these challenges. Disentangling the complexities involved in the chronic neural interface problem requires simultaneous proficiency in multiple scientific and engineering disciplines. The critical component of advancing neural interface knowledge is to prepare the next wave of investigators who have simultaneous multi-disciplinary proficiencies with a diverse set of perspectives necessary to solve the chronic neural interface challenge.
Ore-Forming Processes at the Xiajinbao Gold Deposit in Eastern Hebei Province: Constraints from EPMA and LA-ICPMS Analysis
Authors: Wang Cheng , Shao Yongjun , Huang Kuanxin , Zhou Haodi , Zhang Jianguo , Liu Zhongfa , Liu Qingquan
Published: September 2018

The Xiajinbao gold deposit is located at the northern margin of the North China Craton. Hydrothermal pyrites belonging to three stages were identified: Py1; Py2; and Py3. Geochemical study of these pyrites was conducted using electron probe microanalysis and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to investigate the distributions of minor and trace elements, constrain pyrite genesis, and to obtain an improved understanding of the ore-forming processes. Py1 and Py2 contain high concentrations of Au and are interpreted to have been deposited from fluids from a dominantly magmatic source. Py3 grains have the lowest Co/Ni ratios. All generations of pyrite were deposited by mixing of meteoric waters with magmatic-hydrothermal fluids. Boiling of early ore-forming fluids led to the precipitation of Py1 and gold. Decreasing fO2 in the ore-forming system resulted in the formation of Py2 and gold. Fluid mixing was the dominant controlling factor for the precipitation of Py3 together with small amounts of gold.
Metal Chelating, Inhibitory DNA Damage, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Phenolics from Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) Peel and the Quantifications of Geraniin and Corilagin
Authors: Li Yujing , Li Zhaojie , Hou Hu , Zhuang Yongliang , Sun Liping
Published: September 2018

Whereas the preparation and biological properties of rambutan peel phenolics (RPP) were explored in our previous studies, the metal chelating, inhibitory DNA damage, and anti-inflammatory activities of RPP were evaluated and the important phenolics of RPP quantified in this study. Results showed that RPP had high Fe2+ and Cu2+-chelating activities with EC50 of 0.80 mg/mL and 0.13 mg/mL, respectively. RPP effectively decreased the production of hydroxyl radical with IC50 of 62.4 μg/mL. The protective effects of RPP against AAPH-induced DNA damage were also explored. RPP efficiently inhibited peroxyl radical-induced plasmid DNA strand breakage. The anti-inflammatory effects of RPP were determined using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cell model. RPP significantly inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO) and controlled the levels of inducible NO synthase mRNA in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. The inhibitory activity increased in a dose-dependent manner. The above bioactivity of RPP was associated with its phenolic content and phenolic profiles. Furthermore, the contents of geraniin and corilagin in RPP were determined by an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadruple mass spectrometry (UPLC-QQQ-MS), showing 140.02 and 7.87 mg/g extract dry weight. Thus, RPP has potential applications as a novel nutraceutical and functional food in health promotion.