bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bases nutricionales para la alimentación proteica del cerdo Ibérico puro
Authors: Nieto R. , Aguinaga M.A. , Lara L. , Barea R. , García-Valverde R. , Palma-Granados P. , Conde-Aguilera J.A. , Aguilera J.F.
Published: February 2019

En este trabajo de revisión describimos los resultados obtenidos en una serie de experimentos realizados con el objetivo de evaluar la utilización de la proteína dietética por el cerdo Ibérico en distintas fases de su ciclo productivo. Se describen ensayos nutricionales basados en diseños dosis/respuesta, en los que se han empleado tratamientos isoenergéticos con distinta concentración de proteína –con idéntica composición en aminoácidos siguiendo el concepto de proteína ideal-, así como ensayos ensayos metabólicos comparativos con razas porcinas magras. Los resultados obtenidos indican que la capacidad de la raza Ibérica para depositar proteína corporal es limitada en comparación con la descrita para razas porcinas convencionales en etapas similares de crecimiento. Asimismo, sugieren la necesidad de utilizar dietas con concentración de proteína sensiblemente inferior a la utilizada para razas convencionales, de acuerdo a esta limitación metabólica del animal. Estudios de carácter básico han puesto de manifiesto algunas peculiaridades metabólicas que dan lugar a un crecimiento limitado en proteína y tejido magro. Resumimos la información obtenida en varios experimentos y aportamos recomendaciones sobre la concentración y composición de la proteína en las dietas destinadas a la alimentación del cerdo Ibérico puro, en distintas fases de su ciclo productivo. Un adecuado manejo nutricional, particularmente el aporte proteico, mejora la eficiencia de utilización de este nutriente y da lugar a beneficios de carácter ambiental, económico y de bienestar animal.
DOES TOTAL FACTOR PRODUCTIVITY CONVERGE AMONG ASEAN COUNTRIES?
Authors: Rath Badri Narayan
Published: February 2019

This paper examines the productivity convergence of the five original Association ofSoutheast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines,Singapore, and Thailand (ASEAN-5), using annual data spanning the period 1968to 2014. Results from two-break Lagrange multiplier and residual augmented leastsquares Lagrange multiplier unit root tests reveal strong evidence of productivityconvergence in case of ASEAN-5. Further, the results based on Phillips–Sul panelclub convergence also reveal productivity convergence. To check the robustness ofour finding, we use an alternative measure of total factor productivity and still findevidence of convergence. We infer that such productivity improvements may helpASEAN countries to achieve a higher pace of economic growth.
A TEST OF THE EFFICIENCY OF THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET IN INDONESIA
Authors: Njindan Iyke Bernard
Published: February 2019

We test whether the Indonesian foreign exchange market is efficient. Since empiricalevidence has been inconclusive, we employ a new generalized autoregressiveconditional heteroskedasticity–based unit root test to examine the Efficient MarketHypothesis (EMH). The advantages of this model are that it accommodates twoendogenous structural breaks and heteroskedasticity. Tests that account for structuralbreaks reject the EMH in only 29% of cases. When we accommodate both structuralbreaks and heteroskedasticity, we find the EMH is rejected in 50% of cases. Finally, weexamine the half-life of exchange rates and find that 71% of rates revert to equilibriumwithin a month.
THE CREDIT RISK DYNAMICS OF INTERNATIONAL BONDS: THE INDONESIAN CASE
Authors: Thuraisamy Kannan Sivananthan
Published: February 2019

The objective of this paper is to test how market-determined local-, global- and USbasedfactors explain the behaviour of Indonesian credit spreads. Using a specificasset class of bonds issued in the international market by the Indonesian government,this paper provides evidence confirming the importance of major local and globalmacroeconomic variables in pricing risky debt issued by Indonesia. Using US dollar–denominated bonds ranging from shorter- to longer-maturity groups, this studyprovides insights into the role of these determinants in the pricing process. Giventhe implications for pricing and risk management, the evidence from this study isimportant for investors, policymakers, and issuers.
UNDERSTANDING ASIAN EMERGING STOCK MARKETS
Authors: Arshad Shaista , Rizvi Syed Aun Raza , Haroon Omair
Published: February 2019

We use a three-step process employing multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis tostudy time-varying changes in the volatility and efficiency of Asian emerging equitymarkets. Our findings suggest that, in emerging markets, long-term stability andefficiency are linked to market development and liberalization. Our findings furthersuggest that financial crises have a negative impact on the efficiency of emergingmarkets but only in the short term.
Did I Make the Right Career Choice?
Authors: Clemens Carter , Rivas Bruno S. , Atkinson Angela Dang , Mohan Jesma , Garg Lavish , Pradhan Yogashri , Ighalo Samuel , Nunoo Nii Ahele , Mandzhieva Radmila , Lal Tarang
Published: February 2019

Special Section: The Value and Future of Petroleum Engineering

JPT asked several active young professionals about their career path thus far and what they liked about petroleum engineering. Here are some of their answers.

 

Feeling Lucky

Carter Clemens, BP

I lucked into the petroleum industry; I did not know much about it before choosing it as a major at the University of Texas. It has allowed me to live and travel to distant countries I never thought I would visit—whether it is Abu Dhabi, Port of Spain, Cairo, or Aberdeen, the oil industry has an incredible reach to some interesting locations. It has also enabled me to pursue engineering while spending a lot of my time outside instead of in front of a computer screen. When I was riding around with well operators in Wyoming and Colorado, I thought of how lucky I was to not be in a cubicle. There is something special about being on a well-site surrounded by snow in Wyoming or watching a sunrise from a rig in the middle of the ocean—you can’t get that with most industries.

Personal Satisfaction

Bruno S. Rivas, Mexico National Hydrocarbons Commission

Petroleum engineering is more than get-ting oil out of the ground; it means delivering the energy that the world needs to fight poverty, increase human wellness, and accelerate growth in a sustainable way. The oil and gas industry has given me the opportunity to interact with professionals from all over the world, to exchange different experiences, to solve problems in a responsible and efficient manner, and to inspire future generations. With no doubt, if I had to decide again what to study, my choice would be oil and gas; it is certainly not an easy path, but realizing that I’m generating a positive impact on others’ lives is a personal satisfaction.

Let’s Talk Climate Change

Angela Dang Atkinson, Encana Corp.

I love saying, “I’m a petroleum engineer and I believe in anthropogenic climate change.” It catches people off guard and begins a nuanced conversation about energy. It is an opportunity for me to talk about the importance of incremental change and that there is no silver bullet in solving the world’s energy challenges. As Harvard economics professor Ed Glaeser states, “Once we start thinking that there’s a silver bullet…we lose the fact that we need to be working day by day, over decades, to effect change.” We, the oil industry, are among those working day by day to effect change—whether we are increasing the use of recycled fracture water or finding creative ways to reduce emissions, these are the types of incremental gains on the way to better energy solutions. This nuanced conversation should not primarily exist in 150-character tidbits online. It is up to us to have that conversation in a grassroots manner, face to face, with our community.
Comparison of Postoperative Visual Performance Between Bifocal and Trifocal Intraocular Lens Based on Randomized Controlled Trails: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jin Shanshan , Friedman David S. , Cao Kai , Yusufu Mayinuer , Zhang Jingshang , Wang Jinda , Hou Simeng , Zhu Guyu , Wang Bingsong , Xiong Ying , Li Jing , Li Xiaoxia , He Hailong , Wan Xiuhua
Published: February 2019

Background：To compare the clinical performance of bifocal and trifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) in cataract surgery, a meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials was conducted.

Methods: A comprehensive literature retrieval of PubMed, Science Direct and EMBASE was performed in this systematic review. Clinical outcomes included visual acuity (VA), contrast sensitivity (CS), spectacle independence, postoperative refraction and surgical satisfaction.

Results: There were 8 RCTs included in this study. The difference of uncorrected near VA (UNVA) between the bifocal IOLs and trifocal IOLs had no clinical significance [MD=-0.01, 95%CI: (-0.02,0.00)]. There was no significant difference in the distant-corrected near VA (DCNVA) with MD of 0.04 [95%CI (-0.02, 0.10)]. Compared with trifocal group, the uncorrected intermediate visual acuity (UIVA) [MD=0.09,95%CI:(0.01,0.17)] was significantly worse in the bifocal group. No difference was found in distance-corrected intermediate VA(DCIVA) [MD= 0.09, 95%CI: (-0.04, 0.23)] between two groups. Analysis on AT LISA subgroup indicated the bifocal group had worse intermediate VA than trifocal group (AT LISA tri 839M) [MD= 0.18, 95%CI: (0.12, 0.24) for UIVA and MD= 0.19, 95%CI: (0.13, 0.25) for DCIVA]. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the uncorrected distance VA(UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) [MD=0.01, 95%CI: (-0.01,0.04) for UDVA; MD=0.00, 95%CI: (-0.01,0.01) for CDVA].
The postoperative refraction of bifocal group was similar to that of trifocal group [MD=-0.08, 95% CI: (-0.19, 0.03) for spherical equivalent; MD=-0.09, 95%CI: (-0.21, 0.03) for cylinder; MD=-0.09, 95% CI: (-0.27, 0.08) for sphere]. No difference was found for spectacle independence, posterior capsular opacification (PCO) incidence and patient satisfaction between bifocal IOLs and trifocal IOLs. [RR=0.89, 95% CI: (0.71, 1.12) for spectacle independence; RR=1.81, 95% CI: (0.50, 6.54) for PCO incidence; RR=0.98, 5% CI: (0.86, 1.12) for patient satisfaction].

Conclusion: Patients receiving trifocal IOLs, especially AT LISA tri 839M, have a better intermediate VA than those receiving bifocal IOLs. Near and distance visual performance, spectacle independence, postoperative refraction and surgical satisfaction of bifocal IOLs were similar to those of trifocal IOLs.

Keywords: bifocal; trifocal; intraocular lenses; cataract surgery; randomized; IOLs; meta-analysis.
Premedication with intranasal dexmedetomidine decreases barbiturate requirement in pediatric patients sedated for magnetic resonance imaging: a retrospective study
Authors: Uusalo Panu , Lehtinen Mirjam , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Manner Tuula , Scheinin Mika , Saari Teijo I.
Published: February 2019

Background: Barbiturates are commonly used in ambulatory sedation of pediatric patients. However, use of barbiturates involve risks of respiratory complications. Dexmedetomidine, a highly selective α2-adrenoceptor agonist, is increasingly used for pediatric sedation. Premedication with intranasal (IN) dexmedetomidine offers a non-invasive and efficient possibility to sedate pediatric patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Our hypothesis was that dexmedetomidine would reduce barbiturate requirements in procedural sedation.

Methods: We included 200 consecutive pediatric patients undergoing MRI, and analyzed their hospital records retrospectively. Half of the patients received 3 μg/kg of IN dexmedetomidine (DEX group) 45-60 min before MRI while the rest received only thiopental (THIO group) for procedural sedation. Sedation was maintained with further intravenous thiopental dosing as needed. Thiopental consumption, heart rate (HR) and peripheral oxygen saturation were recorded.

Results: The cumulative thiopental requirement during MRI was (median and interquartile range [IQR]) 4.4 (2.7-6.0) mg/kg/h in the DEX group and 12.4 (9.8-14.8) mg/kg/h in the THIO group (difference 7.9 mg/kg/h, 95% CI 6.8–8.8, P < 0.001). Lowest measured peripheral oxygen saturation remained slightly higher in the DEX group compared to the THIO group (median nadirs and IQR: 97 (95-97) % and 96 (94-97) %, P < 0.001). Supplemental oxygen was delivered to 33 % of the patients in the THIO group compared to 2 % in the DEX group (P < 0.001). The lowest measured HR (mean and SD) was lower (78 (16) bpm) in the DEX group compared to the THIO group (92 (12) bpm) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Premedication with IN dexmedetomidine (3 μg/kg) was associated with markedly reduced thiopental dosage needed for efficient procedural sedation for pediatric MRI.
The Effects of Different Shapes of Capsulorrhexis on Postoperative Refractive Outcomes and Effective Position of the Intraocular Lens in Cataract Surgery
Authors: shixu li , Hu Yiping , Guo Ran , Shao Yushuang , Zhao Jiangyue , Zhang Jinsong , Wang Jing
Published: February 2019

Background：To evaluate the effects of anterior capsular opening size on deviation from predicted refraction and the effective position of the intraocular lens (ELP) in cataract surgery.
Methods：Nonrandomized clinical trial.Eighty patients with simple age-related cataracts were treated from May 2018 to September 2018 at the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University.All patients undergoing phacoemulsification received intraocular lens based on the voluntary principle.Forty eyes were implanted with the C-loop haptic intraocular lens (AMO Tecnis ZCB00) while the other forty eyes were implanted with the plate haptic intraocular lens (CT ASPHINA 509M). Follow-up visits were conducted postoperatively at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months during which patients underwent refraction and data collection after pupil dilation,which included anterior segment photography and Scheimpflug imaging by Pentacam. The area, horizontal and vertical diameter of the capsulorrhexis, circularity, decentration, and package were analysed using the image analysis software Image-Pro-Plus 6.0 ,then evaluated the relationship between the different shapes of capsulorrhexis with deviation from predicted refraction and ELP in cataract surgery.
Results: Deviation from predicted refraction and all of the parameters of capsulorrhexis were not correlative in the 509M IOL group, however, in the Tecnis IOL group, while the deviation from predicted refraction and all of the capsulorrhexis parameters were not correlative at 1 week, the deviation from predicted refraction did correlate with capsulorrhexis area,horizontal diameter at 1 month (P=0.029, P=0.048), and with capsulorrhexis area ,vertical diameter at 3 months (P=0.03, P=0.017).The ELP correlated with package in both groups postoperatively (r>0, P<0.05), but there is no other capsulorrhexis parameters correlated with ELP in the 509M IOL group (all P>0.05). For the Tecnis IOL group, the ELP and capsulorrhexis area were correlated at 1 week and 1 month, while the ELP and horizontal diameter, the ELP and vertical diameter were correlated at 1 week,but did not correlate with the other capsulorrhexis parameters in the Tecnis IOL group (all P>0.05).
Conclusions: The shape of the capsulorrhexis has an effect on postoperative refractive outcomes and the effective position of the intraocular lens in cataract surgery, and plate haptic intraocular lenses have better refractive stability than C-loop haptic intraocular lenses.
Hyperopic Shift caused by Capsule Contraction Syndrome after Microincision Foldable Intraocular Lens Implantation: case series
Authors: Kim Tae Gi , Moon Sang Woong
Published: February 2019

Background

Increasing interest in microincision cataract surgery has led to the use of more flexible intraocular lens (IOL). Flexible IOL may cause more IOL deformation and refractive error when capsule contraction syndrome (CCS) occurred. In this retrospective observational case series study, the aim was to report four cases of hyperopic shift caused by CCS after phacoemulsification with microincision foldable intraocular lens implantation.

Case presentation

All of four patients underwent phacoemulsification and in-the-bag implantation of an Akreos MI60 (Bausch and Lomb) IOL from 2010 to 2016 in our clinic. These patients had been diagnosed with CCS and had undergone Nd:YAG laser anterior capsulotomy. The mean age of the patients with CCS was 66.8 ± 6.7 years and the mean time for development of CCS after the cataract surgery was 9.3 ± 6.9 months. The mean spherical equivalent (SE) value at the time of the CCS diagnosis was 0.88 ± 0.91 D, which had shown a hyperopic shift compared to the SE value of − 0.91 ± 1.29 D after cataract surgery. The mean SE decreased by − 0.47 ± 1.14 D after Nd:YAG laser anterior capsulotomy. The mean age, axial length, anterior chamber depth, and preoperative SE were not significantly different between the patient with CCS and the patients without CCS.

Conclusions

In the case of IOL implantation with flexible materials in microincision cataract surgery, CCS can cause a hyperopic shift. Refractive error caused by CCS can be effectively corrected by Nd:YAG laser anterior capsulotomy.
Ultrasound Guided Continuous Quadratus Lumborum Block Hastened Recovery in Patients Undergoing Open Liver Resection: A Randomized Controlled, Open-label Trial
Authors: Zhu Qiang , Li Li , Yang Zhaoyun , Shen Jinmei , Zhu Rong , Wen Yu , Cai Wenwu , Liu Lei
Published: February 2019

Background Quadratus lumborum (QL) block is increasingly being used as a new abdominal nerve block technique. In some studies of mid and lower abdominal and hip analgesia, continuous QL block achieved favorable outcomes as an alternative to continuous intravenous analgesia with opioids. However, the use of continuous QL block for upper abdominal pain is less well characterized. This study aimed to investigate the effects of continuous anterior QL block (CQLB) on postoperative pain and recovery in patients undergoing open liver resection. Methods Sixty-three patients underwent elective open liver resection were randomly divided into continuous anterior QL block (CQLB, n = 32) group and patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA, n = 31) group. Patients in CQLB group underwent ultrasound-guided anterior QL block at the second lumbar vertebral transverse processes before general anesthesia, followed by postoperative CQLB analgesia. Patients in PCIA group underwent continuous intravenous analgesia postoperatively. Postoperative numerical rating scale (NRS) pain scores upon coughing and at rest, self-administered analgesic counts, rate of rescue analgesic use, time to first out-of-bed activity and anal flatus after surgery, and incidences of analgesic-related adverse effects were recorded. Results Postoperative NRS pain scores on coughing in CQLB group at different time points and NRS pain score at rest 48 h after surgery were significantly lower than those in PCIA group (P <0.05). Time to first out-of-bed activity and anal flatus after surgery in CQLB group were significantly earlier than those in PCIA group (P <0.05). No significant differences of postoperative self-administered analgesic counts, rate of postoperative rescue analgesic usage, or incidences of analgesic-related adverse effects were found between the two groups (P >0.05). Conclusions Ultrasound-guided anterior QL block significantly alleviated the pain during coughing after surgery, shortened the time to first out-of-bed activity and anal flatus, promoting postoperative recovery of the patients undergoing open liver resection.
Choroidal neovascularization emerged right from the focal choroidal excavation in eyes with central serous chorioretinopathy post half-dose photodynamic therapy: A case report
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Xin , Zhu Min , Xu Gezhi , Li Lei
Published: February 2019

Background: Focal choroidal excavation (FCE) is a common concurrent disease with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) was able to cease the course of CSC with efficacy and safety. To retrospectively observed and followed up a special course in eyes with CSC and concurrent FCE treated by a half-dose of PDT.
Case presentation: In this case report analysis, two eyes with CSC and concurrent FCE treated with half-dose PDT, were followed up with monthly retinal fundus examinations. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and ophthalmic fundus examination were examined, including fundus photos, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and angiography. In Case 1, a 46-year-old female has been diagnosed as CSC and concurrent FCE. The baseline BCVA was 10/20. After a half-dose of PDT, complete resolution of SRF was achieved at one-month with stable BCVA. At three months, the patient complained of obvious metamorphosis. Multimodal images confirmed the existence of CNV, derived from the FCE, inside the zone of PDT irradiation. The development of CNV stopped promptly one month post the injection of ranibizumab. In Case 2, a 39 year-old male was diagnosed as bilateral CSC. The BCVA was 8/20 (od), and 16/20 (os). The multimodal images showed classic CSC manifestation in left eye, but atypical manifestation in right eye with subtle SRF and FCE. Post half-dose treatment, the SRF in left eye completely resolved at three-months, and the BCVA improved to 24/20. However, a lesion of CNV grew in the FCE after one month in right eye, with decreased BCVA, 4/20. One month post-injection of ranibizumab, obvious regression was witnessed, with improved BCVA, 6/20. The CNV proceeded to be a scar two months after injection. The BCVA maintained at 8/20.
Conclusions: In this study, type II CNV was induced in two cases of CSC concurrent with FCE in 3 months post half-dose PDT. The CNV grew right from the FCE, inside the zone of PDT irradiation.
The Effect of Phacoemulsification plus Goniosynechialysis in Acute and Chronic Angle Closure Patients with Extensive Goniosynechiae
Authors: Tian Tian , LI MEI , Pan Yingzi , Cai Yu , Fang Yuan
Published: February 2019

Background

Patients with primary angle closure/glaucoma (PAC/PACG) with extensive peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS), and coexisting cataract, increasingly have been treated with phacoemulsification combined with goniosynechialysis (Phaco-GSL). Since the mechanisms of acute and chronic PAC/PACG may differ, the treatment effect of this procedure also may differ. The purpose of this study was to establish whether there was a difference in the therapeutic effect of Phaco-GSL on these two groups of patients, the results of which could provide clinical evidence for improvement in treatment protocols for patients with PAC/PACG and extensive PAS.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study. Twenty-seven patients, 13 with acute PAC/PACG and 14 with chronic PAC/PACG, were treated surgically by Phaco-GSL. The intraocular pressure (IOP), surgical success rate, the need of medication, the extent of PAS, the time and the rate of recurrence of PAS (re-PAS) and other indicators were observed post-operatively for at least three months.

Results

After surgery, IOP decreased (preoperative vs postoperative: 29.77±11.55 mmHg vs 14.92±1.66 mmHg in the acute group and 26.00±11.2 mmHg vs 14.93±2.7 mmHg in the chronic group), the extent of PAS reduced (preoperative vs. postoperative: 314.23±49.07° vs 116.54±73.78° in the acute group and 285.00±53.28° vs 156.43±56.35° in the chronic group), the topical and systemic anti-glaucoma drug requirements decreased, in both groups and in the acute group, respectively. Compared with the acute group, the success rate (acute vs chronic: 100% vs 64.3%) was lower in the chronic group, while the incidence of re-PAS (acute vs chronic: 30% vs 83.3%) were higher in the chronic group. All differences mentioned above were statistically significant (p < 0.05). In addition, there were five patients in total who showed re-PAS of more than 90° (4 in chronic group and 1 in acute group) and all these re-PASs formed within 1 week postoperatively.

Conclusion

Although Phaco-GSL is effective in both groups, there may be differences in the effect between the two groups. Chronic patients are more susceptible to re-PAS. Thus, these patients should be observed closely and treated appropriately in the early post-surgical time period.
Effect of the retention ring-assisted continuous application of riboflavin in pulsed-light accelerated corneal collagen cross-linking on the progression of keratoconus
Authors: Kim Chung Young , Kim Mee Kum
Published: February 2019

Background: To investigate the efficacy and safety of the retention ring-assisted continuous application of 0.1% riboflavin in pulsed-light accelerated corneal collagen cross-linking on the progression of keratoconus.

Methods: The medical records of 20 eyes of 18 patients with progressive keratoconus who received collagen cross-linking at Seoul National University Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Isotonic 0.1% riboflavin was continuously applied for 10 minutes using an 8.0-mm retention ring before the irradiation and accelerated cross-linking was applied with 30-mW pulsed-ultraviolet light at a wavelength 365 nm for eight minutes (1 second on/1 second off; 30 mW/cm2, cumulative dose of 7.2J/cm2) without further intermittent application of riboflavin. Visual acuity, refractive error, topographic index, corneal thickness, and endothelial cell density were evaluated before the operation and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results: The best corrected visual acuity in logMAR improved from preoperative 0.43 to 0.17 in 12 months (p = 0.050). Maximum keratometry decreased from 51.8 D to 50.4 D at six months (p = 0.015) and 50.1 D at 12 months (p = 0.0003). Astigmatism decreased from preoperative 5.5 D to 4.1 D at 12 months (p < 0.0001). Thinnest corneal thickness decreased at three and six months but recovered in 12 months (p > 0.05). Endothelial cell density decreased at postoperative one month (p = 0.02) but gradually recovered in 12 months (p > 0.05).

Conclusions: Retention ring-assisted continuous application of riboflavin for ten minutes in pulsed-light accelerated cross-linking is a comparably safe and effective treatment for halting the progression of keratoconus in 12 months when compared to outcomes of the standard Dresden protocol shown in previous reports.
Diagnostic Test Accuracy of Diabetic Retinopathy Screening by Physician Graders Using a Hand Held Non-Mydriatic Retinal Camera at a Tertiary Level Medical Clinic in a Lower-Middle Income Country Setting
Authors: Piyasena Mapa Mudiyanselage Prabhath Nishantha , Yip Jennifer L.Y. , MacLeod David , Kim Min , Gudlavalleti Venkata S. Murthy
Published: February 2019

Background
The evidence on diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) of diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening utilising photographic studies by non-ophthalmologist personnel in low and middle-income country (LMIC) settings is scarce. We aimed to assess DTA of DR screening using a nonmydriatic hand-held digital camera by trained general physicians in a non-ophthalmic setting.
Methods
This study is a validation of a screening intervention. We selected 700 people with diabetes (PwDM) > 18 years of age, not previously screened or treated for DR, presenting at a tertiary medical clinic in Sri Lanka. Two-field retinal imaging was used to capture fundus images before and after pupil dilatation, using a hand-held non-mydriatic (Visuscout 100®-Germany) digital retinal camera. The images were captured and graded by two trained, masked independent physician graders. The DTA of different levels of DR was assessed comparing physician’s grading with a retinologist’s clinical examination by mydriatic bio-microscopy, according to a locally adopted guideline.
Results
Seven hundred eligible PwDM were screened by physician graders. The mean age of participants was 60.8 years (SD ±10.08) and mean duration of DM was 9.9 years (SD ±8.09). Ungradable image proportion in non-mydriatic imaging was 43.4% (either eye-31.3%, both eyes 12.1%). This decreased to 12.8% (either eye-11.6%, both eyes-1.2%) following pupil dilatation. In comparison to detection of any level of DR, a referable level DR (moderate non-proliferative DR and levels above) showed a higher level of DTA. The sensitivity of the defined referable DR was 88.7% (95% CI 81.7-93.8%) for grader 1 (positive predictive value [PPV] 59.1%) and 92.5% (95% CI 86.4-96.5%) for grader 2 (PPV 68%), using mydriatic imaging, after including ungradable images as screen positives. The specificity was 94.9% (95% CI 93.6-96.0%) for grader 1 (negative predictive value [NPV] 99%) and 96.4% (95% CI 95.3-97.3%) for grader 2 (NPV 99.4%).
Conclusions
The Physicians grading of images from a digital hand-held non-mydriatic camera at a medical clinic, with dilatation of pupil of those who have ungradable images, provides a valid modality to identify referable level of DR. This could be a feasible alternative modality to the existing opportunistic screening to improve the access and coverage.
Phosphorus Improves Leaf Nutrient Concentrations in Wheat, Oat, and Cereal Rye
Authors: Henry Jerri Lynn , McClain William E. , Remley Melissa A.
Published: February 2019

Core Ideas

Increased P availability increases leaf P and Mg in wheat, oat, and rye.

The grass tetany ratio is improved with greater P availability in these species.

Unlike cereal rye and oat, wheat increases shoot growth with high P levels.

Winter annual species grown for forage are prone to mineral imbalances that could result in animal nutritional disorders, such as grass tetany. Adequate soil P has been found to be critical for the growth and adequate nutrient content of Mg, Ca, and K in other forages for grazing animals. This study examined the effect of P availability on growth and leaf nutrients in annual cereal grains commonly grown for winter forage. Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), oat (Avena sativa L.), and cereal rye (Secale cereal L.) were grown hydroponically in greenhouse conditions in complete nutrient solutions with P treatments of 0, 200, 400, and 800 µmol L−1 P. After 32 d, plants were harvested and analyzed for P, Mg, Ca, and K content. Shoot growth of all three species increased from 0 to 200 µmol L−1 P; however, only wheat shoots increased incrementally with the other P treatment concentrations. Leaf P also responded incrementally to increased P treatments in all three species. Wheat and cereal rye exhibited increases in leaf Mg and improved grass tetany ratio from 200 to 400 µmol L−1 P, whereas oat showed these improvements from 0 to 200 µmol L−1 P treatments. This study suggests increased P availability could improve the grass tetany ratio, with or without increased shoot growth, in winter annual forage production on low P soils.
Exergy Models and Tar Removal Techniques in Biomass Gasification
Authors: Ayub Ahsan , Ibrahim Uzair
Published: February 2019

Quest for higher conversion efficiency and reduced environmental impact has increased the focus on renewable energy sources. Biomass is a sustainable form of energy that can be used as an alternate of fossil fuels through biomass gasification. Gasification is one of the most used methods for converting biomass into syngas that is a usable form of energy. The biomass gasification serves as a promising process for energy production. However, uncertainty in process variables and formation of tar has been a challenge in efficient process design and operation. This paper contains literature review of different models used for gasification, tar removal techniques along with Fischer Tropsch reactions for conversion of biomass to liquid fuels. The paper shows circulating and bubbling fluidized bed gasifier as the most efficient model for tar removal and greater exergy efficiency.
Symbiotic Effectiveness of Rhizobia Strains Isolated from Nigerian Savanna
Authors: Bolarinwa Saheed Tunde , Uzoma Anthony Ozoemenam
Published: February 2019

Laboratory and screenhouse experiment were conducted to assess the symbiotic effectiveness (SE) of rhizobia isolated from southern Guinea savanna, northern Guinea savanna and Sudan savanna of Nigeria and response of promiscuous soybean varieties, TGx1448-2E, TGx1835-10E and TGx1955-10E to inoculation with ten indigenous rhizobia isolates. The soybean varieties were grown on sterilized sand at the screenhouse of the Department of Soil Science and Land Management, Federal University of Technology Minna and watered using Sandsman’s nutrient solution. The treatments were un-inoculated control, mineral nitrogen (urea) and ten rhizobia isolates arranged on a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and replicated three times. The rhizobia isolates were Sg4, Sg6-3, Gw5, Gw3-2, Bg3, Bg1-4, Sk2-3, Am2, Am6-3 and Kr5-5 isolated from Sabon-gida, Gwada, Birnin-gwari, Shika, Amawa and Karaye sites of Nigerian savanna. The results obtained were subjected to Analysis of Variance using statistical analysis system (SAS 2008) computer software. The treatments mean was separated using Least Significant Different (LSD) at 5% probability. Nodulation and biomass yield of the varieties were assessed at six weeks after planting. Nodules were only produced in inoculated plants, SE was calculated. The result obtained showed that nodule dry weight, SE and shoot dry weight were significantly affected by the interaction between inoculation and promiscuous soybean varieties. Generally, inoculated plants gave higher shoot biomass gain than the un-inoculated control but lower than those treated with urea. The difference between those inoculated and those treated with urea was associated to environmental specificities and higher temperature during the period of the experiment. The SE was highest in northern Guinea savanna isolate reaching 67% and lowest in southern Guinea savanna isolate Sg6-3 recorded 53%. The result showed an SE of less than 100% in all the isolates which implies that the indigenous rhizobia isolates were not superior to the mineral nitrogen.
Hybrid Power System Sizing and Design for Commercial Application in Kenya
Authors: Rotich Leonard Kipyegon , Kamau Joseph Ngugi , Ndeda Jared Hera , Kinyua Robert
Published: February 2019

Hybrid power system sizing involves determination of local load and energy resources’ conditions as well as availability of generating system components. Each component of the system is preliminarily sized individually using prevailing load, resource and conversion system’s conditions. The Net Present Cost (NPC), Cost of Energy (COE) may be included in determining the configuration of the most optimal system that can meet all the desired power system’s goals. In order to refine the sizing and design process, a simulation software is used to select and size system components that can serve the load effectively. In this study, a Solar PV, Wind and Grid hybrid power system was systematically sized to meet the demand of a commercial consumer, East African School of Aviation (EASA). HOMER software was used to simulate the operation of the proposed HPS. The most suitable HPS was found to consist of Wind generation of an installed capacity of 200 kW, solar PV of 120 kW and the Grid. This system had an NPC of KSh 77,684,050 and a COE of KSh 8.34/kWh.
SiC Particulate Reinforced Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite
Authors: Patel Murlidhar , Pardhi Bhupendra , Pal Manoj , Singh Mukesh Kumar
Published: February 2019

Al or Al alloy Metal Matrix Composites have wide range of applications i.e. aerospace, automobile etc. due to its lightweight, high tensile strength, high wear resistance. This review paper characterized the SiC particulate reinforced Al Metal Matrix Composites. The SiC particulates are dispersed in Al or Al alloy by liquid state processing route and solid-state processing route. Stir casting liquid processing route has been followed by no. of researchers due to its simplicity and low processing cost and at the time of reinforcement small amount of Mg is added to increase the wettability of SiC in molten Al or Al alloy. When Al or Al alloy reinforced with SiC, then its mechanical and tribological properties are enhanced. The effect of particle size, weight or volume fraction of the SiC on density, porosity, hardness, impact toughness, tensile strength, ductility, sliding wear resistance, slurry erosion resistance, erosion-corrosion resistance, corrosion resistance and fatigue strength of Al or Al alloy MMCs are reported. The effect of extrusion and machinability of the SiC particulate reinforced Al MMCs are also discussed in this review article.
Solar Dynamical Processes II
Authors: Mishra Ashish , Kumar Mukul
Published: February 2019

The present article is the successor of Solar Dynamical Processes I. The previous article was focused on the Sun, its magnetic field with an emphasis on various dynamical processes occurring on the Sun, e.g. sunspots, prominence and bright points which in turn plays a fundamental role in regulating the space weather. This article is emphasized on the solar dynamical processes and develop an extensive understanding of the various phenomena involved in their origin. The article also covers various models and hypothesis put forward by pioneer scientists on the basis of their observation by space-borne and ground-based instruments. This article shade light over a wide range of dynamical processes e.g., solar flares, coronal mass ejections, solar jets and coronal holes. Solar jets, the small-scale transient activities are found to have association with the other transient activities (e.g., mini-flares and mini-filaments). Flares as well as the coronal mass ejections are responsible for releasing a large amount of high energy charged particles and magnetic flux into the interplanetary space and are being considered as the main drivers of space weather.
Direct Carbon Fuel Cell-Cleaner and Efficient Future Power Generation Technology
Authors: Ibrahim Uzair , Ayub Ahsan
Published: February 2019

Increasing greenhouse effect due to the burning of fossil fuels has stirred the attention of researchers towards cleaner and efficient technologies. Direct carbon fuel cell (DCFC) is one such emerging technology that could generate electricity from solid carbon like coal and biogas in a more efficient and environmental-friendly way. The mechanism involves electrochemical oxidation of carbon to produce energy and highly pure carbon dioxide. Due to higher purity, the produced carbon dioxide can be captured easily to avoid its release in the environment. The carbon dioxide is produced in a gaseous state while the fuel used is in a solid state. Due to different phases, all of the fuel can be recovered from the cell and can be reused, ensuring complete (100%) fuel utilization with no fuel losses. Moreover, DCFC operates at a temperature lower than conventional fuel cells. The electric efficiency of a DCFC is around 80% which is nearly double the efficiency of coal thermal plant. In addition, DCFC produces pure carbon dioxide as compared to the thermal power plant which reduces the cost of CO2 separation and dumping. In different types of DCFCs, molten carbon fuel cell is considered to be superior due to its low operating temperature and high efficiency. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the direct carbon fuel cell technology and recent advances in this field. The paper is focused on the fundamentals of fuel cell, history, operating principle, its types, applications, future challenges, and development.
An Ethnomedical Perspective of Arabic Traditional Cauterization; Al-Kaiy
Authors: Aboushanab Tamer , AlSanad Saud
Published: February 2019

Cauterization (al-kaiy in Arabic) includes using a heated metal instrument (nail or metal rod) for skin application. This article describes the Arabic traditional cauterization from an ethnomedical view. The aims of this article are to document Arabic traditional cauterization practice, to address the beliefs and pattern of use about cauterization in various Arabic countries, and to identify adverse events and raise the safety concerns about this practice. The definition, history, historical indications, related knowledge, beliefs, the available information about the pattern of use in various Arabic countries and safety concerns are discussed. A new classification of identified complications related to cauterization is developed and described.  Encouraging the reporting of complications due to cauterization and other traditional therapies by healthcare professionals, further field research and documentation of the knowledge related to the practice and raising the healthcare community and the public awareness towards the safety concerns and the complications related to cauterization are advised.
Moderating Effect of Confidence in Solving Problem and English Achievement on the Performance of Fourth Year Students in Physics
Authors: Villonez Glen Loreto
Published: February 2019

The study aimed to determine the influence of problem-solving confidence and English achievement on the performance of fourth year students in physics. Specifically, it sought to find out whether English achievement significantly moderate the effect of problem-solving confidence on the performance in physics. Descriptive- predictive design was utilized in the study. The study was carried out in F. Bangoy National High School to sixty fourth year students. Mean and moderated regression were used as tools in the analysis of data. Results revealed that the level of problem-solving confidence in physics was moderate; the level of academic achievement in English was proficient and the level of performance of fourth year students in physics was also proficient. Further, English achievement significantly moderates the effect of problem-solving confidence on the performance of fourth year students in physics. Therefore, it was recommended to strengthen the connection of learning English and problem-solving ability through activities that encourage students to analyze and think critically in order to arrive at a correct solution.
Degradação Ambiental Agropecuária na América Latina: uma abordagem de índices nos países da região
Authors: Pinto Nelson Guilherme Machado , Rossato Vanessa Piovesan , Coronel Daniel Arruda
Published: February 2019

A fim de caracterizar a degradação ambiental agropecuária na América Latina, este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar o padrão de degradação ambiental agropecuário dos países da América Latina. A mensuração desse fenômeno ocorre por meio da construção de um Índice de Degradação Ambiental Agropecuária (IDAA), o qual surge como proxy para determinar a área de degradação de uma determinada região causada pela atividade agropecuária. Na construção do IDAA, verificou-se que algumas regiões possuem um padrão de degradação muito elevado, como alguns estados brasileiros. Com relação aos países pesquisados da América Latina, o valor médio do índice foi de 8,25%. Os países que apresentaram maiores níveis de degradação ambiental foram: Brasil, Argentina e México, visto que eles possuem na agropecuária uma base muito forte de suas economias. Neste sentido, para converter essa situação, deve ocorrer maior atuação do poder público bem como uma maior conscientização dos produtores rurais nos países que apresentaram maiores níveis de degradação. Os menores índices de degradação ficaram em países onde a atividade agropecuária não apresenta elevados níveis de produtividade, como a Nicarágua, o Chile e El Salvador.
Evaluation of 1D hydraulic models for the simulation of mountain fluvial floods: a case study of the Santa Bárbara River in Ecuador
Authors: Pinos Juan , Timbe Luis , Timbe Edison
Published: February 2019

River flooding is a key topic for water managers because of the social and economic losses it can cause. The complex topography and dynamics of mountain rivers has limited the analysis of their behavior during flood events (e.g., sediment transport, flooding). This study aims to test the performance of three hydraulic 1D models (HEC-RAS, MIKE 11, and Flood Modeller) to estimate inundation water levels for a mountain river. The evaluation of these models was performed considering steady state conditions through 10 scenarios, i.e. five discharge return periods, and two types of cross sections data: (a) type I, a detailed field survey complemented with information extracted from DEM, derived from LiDAR; and (b) type II, cross sections exclusively derived from the DEM. The research was conducted for a reach of 5 km of the Santa Bárbara River, with an average slope of 0.25%. HEC-RAS model results for cross sections type I, were previously validated and therefore used as reference for comparison between other models and scenarios. The goodness-of-fit between models was measured based on the Nash-Sutcliffe model efficiency coefficient (EF). The main goal of the current study was to determine the variability of inundation level results compared with a validated model as reference, using the same input data for the three modeling packages. Our analysis shows that, when using cross section type I, the evaluated modeling packages yield similar results (EF were between 0.94 and 0.99). On the other hand, the goodness of fit decreased when using type II data, with an average EF of 0.98 (HEC-RAS), 0.88 (Flood Modeller) and 0.85 (MIKE 11) when compared to the reference model. The authors conclude that it is highly recommend for practitioners to use geometric data type I instead of type II in order to obtain similar performance in the tested models. Only HEC-RAS type II has the same performance as type I models (average EF of 0.98).
Systematically Searching Empirical Literature in the Social Sciences: Results from Two Meta-Analyses Within the Domain of Education
Authors: Pickup David I. , Bernard Robert M. , Borokhovski Eugene , Wade Anne C. , Tamim Rana M.
Published: February 2019

Introduction. This paper provides an overview of the information retrieval strategy employed for two meta-analyses, conducted by a systematic review team at Concordia University (Montreal, QC, Canada). Both papers draw on standards first articulated by H.M. Cooper and further developed by the Campbell Collaboration, which promote a comprehensive approach to systematically searching an extensive array of resources (bibliographic databases, print resources, citation indices, etc.) in order to locate both published and unpublished research. The goal is to verify if searching comprehensively through multiple resources retrieves studies that are unique, and hence, improve the overall representativeness of a diverse body of literature. We also analyze the sensitivity and specificity of the results by data source.

Methods. In order to determine the source sensitivity, we consider percentage of results from each source retrieved for full-text review. In order to determine the source specificity, we derive a percentage from the total number of studies included in the final meta-analysis compared against the overall number of initial results found.

Results. Results demonstrate the need to search beyond the subject-specific databases of a particular discipline as unique results can be found in many places. Databases for related disciplines provided 129 unique includes to each meta-analysis, and multidisciplinary databases provided 44 and 99 unique includes for the two meta-analyses in question respectively. Manual search techniques were much more sensitive and specific than electronic searches of databases and yield a higher percentage of final includes.

Discussion. The results demonstrate the utility of a comprehensive information retrieval methodology like that proposed by the Campbell Collaboration, which goes beyond the main subject databases to locate the full range of information sources, including grey literature.