bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Laurus nobilis on the Blood and Lenses Antioxidant Activity in Rabbit Under Fat-Enriched Diet
Authors: CASAMASSIMA D. , CHIOSI F. , VIZZARRI F. , PALAZZO M. , COSTAGLIOLA C.
Published: December 2019

Fat-enriched diet is strongly associated with cataract development. Laurus nobilis shows antioxidant activity. Herein we evaluated the effect of Laurus nobilis oral administration on the blood and lenses antioxidant activity in rabbits under fat-enriched diet. Sixty rabbits divided into 4 groups were used. One group represented the control (N-CTR). The second group (P-CTR) fed a diet supplemented with 2.5 % of pig fat; the third group (EXP1) received a diet supplemented with 2.5 % of pig fat and 1 g/kg of dried-bay leaves; the fourth group (EXP2) was treated with dried-bay leaves at the rate of 1 g/kg of feed. At baseline and at the end of the study (56 days) the following blood parameters were determined: thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs), total phenols, superoxide dismutase (SOD), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORACpca), ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), retinol and alfa-tocopherol. At the end of the follow-up, the eyes were enucleated and the antioxidant profile, such as total antioxidant activity (TAC), TBARS, retinol and alfa-tocopherol of lenses was evaluated. Plasma ROMs and TBARS levels were statistically lower in the groups receiving bay leaves integration. A significant increase of plasma retinol, FRAP and ORACpca levels was found in EXP1 and EXP2 groups, whereas plasma alfa-tocopherol resulted statistically higher only in EXP2 group. Bay leaves supplementation enhanced TAC, retinol and alfa-tocopherol in rabbit lens, particularly in EXP2 group; whereas lenses TBARS levels significantly decreased in both treated groups. These findings demonstrate that Laurus nobilis oral administration exerts a protective effect on the risk of cataract development in rabbits under fat-enriched diet.
About Research Interests of Renowned Ukrainian Scholar
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Marta
Published: December 2019

The paper presents a scholarly proﬁle of professor Stefaniia Andrusiv, paying speciﬁc attention to her achievements in the ﬁelds of research and education during her work at the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin. In 2001 professor Andrusiv started her work at the Institute of Slavic Philology and in the academic year 2005/2006 became the head of the newly founded Department of Ukrainian literature holding this post until 2013. The scholar took an active part in popularizing Ukrainian studies in Poland and was very concerned about developing Polish-Ukrainian dialogue. In the course of her fruitful work at the university professor Andrusiv met different research and educational challenges and proposed many valuable initiatives. She effectively used contemporary research trends, such as postmodern methodology, the theory of intertextuality, the literary theory of narratology, as well as anthropology and postcolonial criticism. As far as her didactic work is concerned, professor Andrusiv delivered very interesting, thought-provoking lectures on the history of Ukrainian literature. Her  professional approach was much appreciated not only by her students but by academic staff as well. The lectures on cultural studies, master’s and doctoral seminars belong to her didactic achievements and constitute a valuable heritage of education. It should be underlined that under the supervision of professor Andrusiv twelve students have successfully defended their Ph.D. dissertations and the majority of them continue their scholarly work. Professor Andrusiv never was afraid of making experiments, ﬁnding new solutions and approaches. Her mind was very ﬂexible, creative and free of any obstructive restraints.
KEMAMPUAN SELF-EFFICACY MAHASISWA MELALUI BAHAN AJAR METODE STATISTIKA MENGGUNAKAN HYBRID LEARNING PADA TANTANGAN REVOLUSI INDUSTRI 4.0
Authors: Sowanto Sowanto , Mutmainnah Mutmainnah , Saputra Hasdin Adi , Andang Andang
Published: December 2019

Penelitian ini didasarkan pada permasalahan rendahnya kemampuan tingkat Self-Efficacy (keyakinan diri) mahasiswa akan kemampuannya dalam menyelesaikan masalah yang berhubungan dengan statistika. Untuk mengatasi hal tersebut, dilakukan penelitian dengan bahan ajar pada mata kuliah metode statistika menggunakan Hybrid Learning sesuai tantangan Industri 4.0. Adapun yang dikaji dalam penelitian ini adalah masalah self-efficacy mahasiswa setelah perkuliahan metode statistika diberikan menggunakan Hybrid Learning. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian quasi experiment dengan desain penelitian menggunakan nonequivalent control group design disertai teknik purposive sampling. Subjek penelitian ini adalah seluruh mahasiswa semester III mata kuliah metode statistika program studi pendidikan STKIP Bima tahun ajaran 2019/2020. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini berupa angket self-efficacy. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa self-efficacy mahasiswa yang pembelajarannya menggunakan Hybrid learaning tidak berbeda dibandingkan siswa yang mendapat pembelajaran biasa. Begitu juga ditinjau dari dimensinya, self-efficacy matematis mahasiswa yang pembelajarannya menggunakan Hybrid learaning dilihat dari dimensi Magnitude, Strength, dan Generality tidak berbeda secara signifikan dibandingkan dengan siswa yang mendapat pembelajaran secara biasa.
PENGEMBANGAN INSTRUMEN TES TINGKAT LITERASI STATISTIS SISWA
Authors: Pulungan Delyanti Azzumarito , Herosian Mila Yulia
Published: December 2019

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan tes melek statistik. Tes ini valid pada konten, valid pada konstruk, dan dapat diandalkan untuk mengukur dan menilai literasi statistik siswa. Literasi statistik dikembangkan melalui 3 tahap pengembangan: pendahuluan, perencanaan, dan pengembangan. Validitas isi literasi statistis dilakukan dengan penilaian ahli, validitas konstruk dianalisis dengan metode analisis faktor konfirmatori dua tingkat berdasarkan kriteria Goodness Of Fit serta reliabilitas model dianalisis menggunakan construct reliability. Hasil validitas konstruk menunjukkan bahwa setiap item dapat diukur secara signifikan oleh 6 aspek literasi statistis. Model konseptual literasi statistik berada dalam kategori good fit, dengan nilai RMSEA 0,023, CFI 0, 91 dan GFI 1, 00, ini berarti bahwa model literasi statistik good fit. Hasil uji reliabilitas model yang dilihat dari nilai construct validity, diperoleh nilai sebesar Literasi statistis ini diuji pada 150 siswa dari 3 sekolah SMA di Kota Medan. Hasil uji reliabilitas konstruk diperoleh nilai construct reliability (CR) setiap variable lates sebesar 0,83 ≥ 0,70 dan nilai Variance Extracted (VE) sebesar 0,61 ≥ 0,5. Berdasarkan nilai CR dan VE, maka konstruk literasi statistis siswa berada pada kategori reliabilitas konstruk yang baik.
Türkiye’de İllerin Mutluluğu
Authors: GÜNEŞ Bayram , TAŞ İsmail , ACAR Sedat
Published: December 2019

Bu çalışma, Türkiye’de bireylerin mutluluğuna etki eden faktörleri tespit etmeyi amaçlamaktadır. Bu amaçla, mümkün olduğu ölçüde geniş tutulan bir model oluşturulmuş ve bu model hem Türkiye genelinde hem de iller düzeyinde sınanmıştır. Modelde yerli literatürde içerilmeyen cinsiyete ve gelire bağlı toplumsal baskı, borçluluk, devlet hizmetlerinden memnuniyet, bireyin yakın çevresiyle ilişkilerinden duyduğu memnuniyet gibi değişkenlerin kullanılmış olması ve söz konusu modelin 81 il bazında yinelenmiş olması çalışmanın temel katkılarıdır. Çalışmamızda sıralı lojistik regresyon modeli kullanılmıştır. Model sonuçlarına göre, Türkiye’de bireylerin genel olarak benzer faktörlerden mutlu ya da mutsuz olduklarını söylemek mümkündür. Evliliğinden, işinden, sağlığından, gelirinden, sosyal hayatındanve kamusal hizmetlerden memnun olan, üniversite mezunu, yakın sosyal çevresi ile olumlu ilişkiler kuran, iyimser ve kadın bireylerin daha mutlu oldukları görülmektedir. Buna karşın evliliklerinden memnun olmayan, işsiz, borçlu, suça maruz kalan, cinsiyetinden ve gelirinden dolayı üzerinde baskı hisseden bireylerin daha mutsuz oldukları tespit edilmiştir. Modelin illere uygulanması bir takım ek bilgiler sunmaktadır. Bu sayede, değişkenlerin istatistiki olarak anlamlı ya da anlamsız oldukları illerin dağılımlarını, bazı durumlarda yığılmalarını izlemek mümkün olabilmektedir. Diğer taraftan, Türkiye geneli analizde bulunan örneğin pozitif bir ilişkinin il düzeyinde negatif olabildiği (ya da tersi) gözlenebilmektedir. Bu durum, analizlerin il düzeyine de genişletilmesi gerekliliğine işaret etmektedir.
Effectiveness of Early Exercise Against Uterine Involution in Spontaneous Postpartum Patients
Authors: Kusparlina Eny Pemilu , Sundari Sundari
Published: December 2019

Background: It is estimated that 50% of puerperal mortality occur within the first 24 hours. At this time the involution process occured. Involutionary disorders cause complications which is the leading cause of maternal mortality. Most of postpartum women do not obtain exercise guidance after giving birth. They are only advised to do simple mobilization without planned guidance. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of early exercise against uterine involution (fundus and lochea). Methods: The research used quasi experimental (pre-post test non equivalent control group design). It was conducted from January to June 2019. The samples were 40 respondents spontaneous primiparous postpartum mother. The study was started by 1) divided the samples into control group and treatment group, 2) measured the fundus and lochea, 3) provided early exercise on treatment group, 4) re-measured fundus and lochea in both groups, 5) analyzed the effectiveness of early exercise to fundus and lochea expenditure decrease. The data analysis used Mann Whitney with α = 0.05. Results: The results showed p-value of 0.000 (fundus) and 0.001 (lochea). Conclusion: Early exercise is effective in accelerating decrease in fundus and lochea expenditure as it helps blood circulation to the uterine, which causes the uterus to contract well. Good contractions help narrowing of open blood vessels so that bleeding does not occur, decreases in uterine fundus and lochea expendment take place more rapidly. Keywords: early exercise; uterine involution; spontaneous postpartum
O ESTUDANTE DESEJÁVEL CONSTITUÍDO PELO DISCURSO DA EDUCAÇÃO MATEMÁTICA CRÍTICA
Authors: Oliveira Júlio César Gomes de , Silva Marcio Antonio da
Published: December 2019

Esta pesquisa estabelece aproximação teórico-metodológica com análise do discurso, desenvolvida por Michel Foucault e interlocutores, por meio do questionamento: qual estudante desejável está sendo constituído pelo discurso da Educação Matemática Crítica (EMC)? Utiliza como corpus discursivo de análise trabalhos que foram publicados em revistas da educação matemática (Bolema, Zetetiké e Revista Paranaense de Educação Matemática) e no Encontro Nacional de Educação Matemática (2010, 2013, 2016). A partir dessa materialidade, apresenta como resultado um enunciado que caracteriza um sujeito desejável: matemática para formar um cidadão-críticoconsciente-ativo que é responsável, agente de transformação social, engajado politicamente, que interpreta e age em situações estruturadas pela matemática e que é questionador dos usos de modelos matemáticos presentes na sociedade. Conclui que um sujeito desejável desse currículo não escapa de um exercício do poder, pois coloca em jogo um processo de subjetivação no contexto das pesquisas em educação matemática, produzindo efeitos de poder ao procurar conduzir a conduta das pessoas,abrindo, por meio das pesquisas investigadas, um campo de experiência para tal. Conclui, também, que, ainda que seja uma demanda específica de um currículo-EMC, esse enunciado pode estar se tornando uma demanda geral do campo da educação matemática, assumindo traço de um significantevazio.
Two-Machine Job-Shop Scheduling Problem to Minimize the Makespan with Uncertain Job Durations
Authors: Sotskov Yuri N. , Matsveichuk Natalja M. , Hatsura Vadzim D.
Published: December 2019

We study two-machine shop-scheduling problems provided that lower and upper bounds on durations of n jobs are given before scheduling. An exact value of the job duration remains unknown until completing the job. The objective is to minimize the makespan (schedule length). We address the issue of how to best execute a schedule if the job duration may take any real value from the given segment. Scheduling decisions may consist of two phases: an off-line phase and an on-line phase. Using information on the lower and upper bounds for each job duration available at the off-line phase, a scheduler can determine a minimal dominant set of schedules (DS) based on sufficient conditions for schedule domination. The DS optimally covers all possible realizations (scenarios) of the uncertain job durations in the sense that, for each possible scenario, there exists at least one schedule in the DS which is optimal. The DS enables a scheduler to quickly make an on-line scheduling decision whenever additional information on completing jobs is available. A scheduler can choose a schedule which is optimal for the most possible scenarios. We developed algorithms for testing a set of conditions for a schedule dominance. These algorithms are polynomial in the number of jobs. Their time complexity does not exceed O ( n 2 ) . Computational experiments have shown the effectiveness of the developed algorithms. If there were no more than 600 jobs, then all 1000 instances in each tested series were solved in one second at most. An instance with 10,000 jobs was solved in 0.4 s on average. The most instances from nine tested classes were optimally solved. If the maximum relative error of the job duration was not greater than 20 % , then more than 80 % of the tested instances were optimally solved. If the maximum relative error was equal to 50 % , then 45 % of the tested instances from the nine classes were optimally solved.
Modelling of a Dual-Fuel-Mode Free-Jet Combustion System
Authors: Cooper Maxim , Sam Ashish Alex , Pesyridis Apostolos
Published: December 2019

The focus of this study is to design a combustion system able to sustain hypersonic flight at Mach 8. A Dual-Mode Free-Jet combustion chamber design, first tested in 2010 by NASA, is being adapted to run on hydrogen fuel instead of ethylene while addressing the excessive thermal heat load. This study is part of the FAME (Flight at Mach Eight) project, with the primary objective to design and analyse the engine configuration for a hypersonic commercial aircraft. This CFD analysis and validation study, the first to replicate this combustion chamber design, provides detailed instructions on the combustion system design. The analysis from this study can be used for future research to successfully reach a sustainable design and operation of a Dual-Mode Free-Jet combustion chamber. The 53% size reduction in the combustion system represents significant progress which encourages future research regarding in the design of combustion systems for hypersonic propulsion systems.
Yield Gap Management under Seawater Intrusion Areas of Indonesia to Improve Rice Productivity and Resilience to Climate Change
Authors: Sembiring Hasil , A. Subekti Nuning , Erythrina  , Nugraha Dedi , Priatmojo Bhakti , Stuart Alexander M.
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to evaluate (a) the performance of two modern rice varieties (non-tolerant and tolerant for saline soils) under different fertilizer management options, and (b) assess the yield gap and income increase through proper crop and nutrient management at different levels of soil salinity. Experiments were carried out in moderate and high levels of soil salinity in West Java, Indonesia. A split plot design with three replications was used. The main plots included two rice varieties, Inpari-30 Ciherang sub1 and Inpari-34 (tolerant variety for saline soils), and subplots included eight fertilizer management treatments. Farmer participatory field trials were also established across three levels of soil salinity with four different rice varieties, Sidenuk, Inpari 30, Inpari 34, and Inpari 35, and a fertilizer package consisting of organic and inorganic fertilizers. Under low and moderate soil salinities, Sidenuk and Inpari 30 with recommended practice had higher productivity and economic benefit compared to the saline tolerant rice varieties, Inpari 34 and Inpari 35. However, under high soil salinity, the yields of Inpari 34 and Inpari 35 with recommended practice were 93% higher than farmers’ practice, representing an exploitable yield gap of 1.3 t ha−1 and benefit above fertilizer cost of USD 301 ha−1. The combination of tolerant varieties and improved nutrient management use for rice production can therefore be used as a strategy for improving farmers’ income and livelihoods in coastal areas of Indonesia.
SelectedAspects of Iodate and Iodosalicylate Metabolism in Lettuce Including the Activity of Vanadium Dependent Haloperoxidases as Affected by Exogenous Vanadium
Authors: Smoleń Sylwester , Kowalska Iwona , Halka Mariya , Ledwożyw-Smoleń Iwona , Grzanka Marlena , Skoczylas Łukasz , Czernicka Małgorzata , Pitala Joanna
Published: December 2019

In marine algae, vanadium (V) regulates the cellular uptake of iodine (I) and its volatilization as I2, the processes catalyzed by vanadium-dependent haloperoxidases (vHPO). Relationships between I and vanadium V in higher plants, including crop plants, have not yet been described. Little is known about the possibility of the synthesis of plant-derived thyroid hormone analogs (PDTHA) in crop plants. The activity of vHPO in crop plants as well as the uptake and metabolism of iodosalicylates in lettuce have not yet been studied. This studyaimed to determine the effect of V on the uptake and accumulation of various forms of I, the metabolism of iodosalicylates and iodobenzoates and, finally, on the accumulation of T3 (triiodothyronine—as example of PDTHA) in plants. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. capitata ‘Melodion’ cv.) cultivation in a hydroponic NutrientFilm Technique (NFT) system was conducted with the introduction of 0 (control), 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 µM V doses of ammonium metavanadate (NH4VO3) in four independent experiments. No iodine treatment was applied in Experiment No. 1, while iodine compounds were applied at a dose of 10 µM (based on our own previous research) as KIO3, 5-iodosalicylic acid (5-ISA) and 3,5-diiodosalicylic acid (3,5-diISA) in Experiment Nos. 2, 3 and 4, respectively. When lettuce was grown at trace amount of I in the nutrient solution, increasing doses of V contributed to the increase of (a) I content in roots, (b) I uptake by whole lettuce plants (leaves + roots), and (c) vHPO activity in leaves (for doses 0.05–0.20 µM V). Vanadium was mainly found in roots where the content of this element increased proportionally to its dose. The content of V in leaves was not modified by V introduced into the nutrient solution. We found that5-ISA, 3,5-diISA and T3 were naturally synthesized in lettuce and its content increased when 5-ISA, 3,5-diISA were applied. Quantitative changes in the accumulation of organic metabolites (iodosalicylates and iodobenzoates) accumulation were observed, along with increased T3 synthesis, with its content in leaves exceeding the level of individual iodosalicylates and iodobenzoates. The content of T3 was not affected by V fertilization. It was concluded that iodosalicylates may participate in the biosynthesis pathway of T3—and probably of other PDTHA compounds.
Above- and Below-Ground Part Growth in Chewings and Strong Creeping Red Fescue Grown for Seed Resulting from Retardants and N Fertilization
Authors: Szczepanek Małgorzata , Stypczyńska Zofia , Dziamski Andrzej , Wichrowska Dorota
Published: December 2019

Generative tillers are a source of assimilates necessary for the seed formation. However, their excessive elongation, especially under high doses of nitrogen, increases the susceptibility to lodging. The growth of generative shoots depends, among others on the root biomass affecting nutrient uptake, and on the ability to form rhizomes, as well as on the competitiveness of parallel developing vegetative tillers. Two-replicate field experiments were performed in Poland (53°09′ N, 17°35′ E), to determine the effect of plant growth regulators (PGRs) (single application of chloromequat chloride (CCC) at BBCH 30-31 or sequential treatment CCC at BBCH 30-31 + ethephon (ET) or CCC at BBCH 30-31 + trinexapac-ethyl (TE) at BBCH 37-39, and N fertilization (40 and 70 kg ha−1) on the length of generative tillers, the weight of generative and vegetative tillers, the canopy height, the weight of roots and rhizomes, and on N uptake in Festuca rubra L ssp. rubra (strong creeping red fescue) and F. r. L ssp. commutata (Chewings red fescue). Chewings red fescue turned to be more sensitive to the retardants. Generative tillers were shorter after single application of CCC as well as sequential treatment CCC + ET or TE. The tillers of strong creeping red fescue were shortened only after the application of CCC + TE. In every PGR treatments the canopy height at harvest was greater than in the control. Increasing the N rate from 40 to 70 kg ha−1 caused the reduction canopy height of strong creeping red fescue. Increased production of above-ground biomass, especially generative tillers, resulted in an increase in N accumulation in Chewings red fescue, as compared with strong creeping. Increasing the nitrogen rate from 40 to 70 kg ha−1, despite the reduction of root dry matter weight, stimulated generative tiller dry matter accumulation but it did not affect the biomass of vegetative tillers.
Plant Density Influences Reproductive Growth, Lint Yield and Boll Spatial Distribution of Cotton
Authors: Khan Nangial , Han Yingchun , Xing Fangfang , Feng Lu , Wang Zhanbiao , Wang Guoping , Yang Beifang , Fan Zhengyi , Lei Yaping , Xiong Shiwu , Li Xiaofei , Li Yabing
Published: December 2019

The number of cotton plants grown per unit of ground area has gained attention due to the high prices of inputs and lower production. Cotton yield per unit of area in Henan province has been stagnant in the last few years. The objectives of this study were to investigate cotton growth, yield, boll spatial distribution and biomass accumulation using different plant densities at cultivation and to find out the optimal plant density. A 2-year field experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design under six plant densities (D1, 15,000; D2, 33,000; D3, 51,000; D4, 69,000; D5, 87,000 and D6, 105,000 ha−1). Cotton grown at lower plant density produced taller plants and high number of leaves per plant while greater number of branches, fruiting nodes and high number of bolls per unit of ground area were produced under high plant density. Boll retention rate decreased as plant population increased and at nodes 1–8 the rate decreased slowly and then increased dramatically. The highest seed cotton yield (4546 kg ha−1) and lint yield (1682 kg ha−1) was produced by D5. The seed cotton and lint yield produced by D5 were 51–55%, 40–37%, 22–26%, 11–15%, 12–15%, 28–30%, 21–24%, 15–20%, 7–13% and 13–17% higher than D1, D2, D3, D4 and D6 during both years of experimentation, respectively. The increase in seed yield was due to higher biomass accumulation in reproductive organs under D5 plant density. The highest average (110.4 VA kg ha−1 d−1) and maximum (126 VM kg ha−1 d−1) rate of reproductive organs biomass was also accumulated by D5 as compared to other plant densities. The results suggest that D5 is the optimal plant density for high reproductive biomass accumulation and high yield for the area of Henan province.
In Vivo Performances, Carcass Traits, and Meat Quality of Pigs Fed Olive Cake Processing Waste
Authors: Liotta Luigi , Chiofalo Vincenzo , Lo Presti Vittorio , Chiofalo Biagina
Published: December 2019

The aim of the study was to assess the inclusion of different levels of olive cake in pigs’ diet as a strategy to replace conventional ingredients and to improve meat quality traits. Seventy-two Pietrain pigs, during the growing–finishing period (50–120 kg BW), were fed with three dietary treatments that contained or did not contain olive cake: 0% (Ctrl), 5% (Low), and 10% (High). The trial lasted 90 days. Weekly, individual body weight (BW) and feed intake (FI) were recorded to calculate average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). At slaughter, the dressing percentage was calculated and carcass weight and backfat thickness were measured. On a section of Longissimus thoracis muscle (LT), pH, color, chemical, and fatty acid composition were determined. Fatty acid profile was also determined in backfat. The statistical model included the effects of diet (Ctrl, Low, and High). The inclusion of 5% of olive cake in the diet improved significantly (p < 0.05) BW and FCR. Both levels of inclusion (5% and 10%) significantly reduced (p < 0.05) backfat thickness and intramuscular fat and modified their fatty acid composition, increasing (p < 0.05) the concentration of MUFA and PUFA and improving (p < 0.05) quality indices. Results suggest that olive cake did not negatively affect the productive performances.
Sexual Dimorphism for Coping Styles Complements Traditional Methods for Sex Determination in a Multivariety Endangered Hen Breed
Authors: Iglesias Pastrana Carlos , Navas González Francisco Javier , Marín Navas Carmen , Arando Arbulu Ander , González Ariza Antonio , León Jurado José Manuel , Pizarro Inostroza María Gabriela , Camacho Vallejo Maria Esperanza
Published: December 2019

Sex determination is key to designing endangered poultry population conservation and breeding programs when sex distribution departs from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. A total of 112 Utrerana chickens (28 per variety, partridge, black, white, and franciscan) were selected for hatching day sexing. Sex assignation was performed through 10 methods. Three sex assignment criteria comprised criteria found in literature, opposite criteria to that in the literature, and composite criteria combining methods reporting the highest predictive success from the previous ones. This study aims to determine which method combinations may more successfully determine sex across the four varieties of Utrerana endangered hen breed to tailor noninvasive early specific models to determine sex in local chicken populations. Although the explanatory power of the three assignation criteria is equal (75%), assignation criteria 2 resulted to be the most efficient as it correctly assigns males more frequently. Only methods 3 (English method), 5 (general down feathers coloration), 7 (wing fan), and 10 (behavior/coping styles) reported significant differences regardless of the variety, hence, are appropriate for early sexing. Sex confirmation was performed at 1.5 months old. Identifying sex proportions enhances genetic management tasks in endangered populations, complementing more standardized techniques, which may result inefficient given the implicit diversity found in local populations.
Effect of Functional Group Density of Anion Exchange Resins on Removal of p-Toluene Sulfonic Acid from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Sun Yue , Li Xiao , Zheng Weisheng , Ding Xinchun , Singh Rajendra Prasad
Published: December 2019

Adsorption using anion exchange resins is an efficient method for the removal of aromatic sulfonic acids (ASAs) from industrial wastewater. In this study, a series of weak-base anion exchangers (SD1–SD5) were synthesized to investigate the effect of functional group density of resins on the adsorption of ASAs from wastewater containing competitive inorganic anions. p-Toluene sulfonic acid (PTSA) was selected as a target pollutant, and Na2SO4 was chosen as the competitive inorganic salt because of its widespread existence in industrial wastewater. Adsorption performances of these resins were evaluated and compared in terms of selectivity, kinetics, isotherms, regeneration, and dynamic adsorption behavior. Importantly, the PTSA uptake increased with the raising content of functional groups on resins in the absence of Na2SO4; however, in the presence of a high level of Na2SO4 (for example, ≥1%), a decrease in the functional group density could improve the adsorption capacity of resins for PTSA. Moreover, desorption and fixed bed column experiments were conducted in all resins, thereby confirming the effect of functional group density of resins on the PTSA adsorption in actual application. In brief, this research will provide a better understanding for the design and preparation of anion exchangers for the effective removal of ASA from wastewater.
A Robust Tracking Algorithm Based on a Probability Data Association for a Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Cheng Long , Xue Mingkun , Liu Ze , Wang Yong
Published: December 2019

As one of the core technologies of the Internet of Things, wireless sensor network technology is widely used in indoor localization systems. Considering that sensors can be deployed to non-line-of-sight (NLOS) environments to collect information, wireless sensor network technology is used to locate positions in complex NLOS environments to meet the growing positioning needs of people. In this paper, we propose a novel time of arrival (TOA)-based localization scheme. We regard the line-of-sight (LOS) environment and non-line-of-sight environment in wireless positioning as a Markov process with two interactive models. In the NLOS model, we propose a modified probabilistic data association (MPDA) algorithm to reduce the NLOS errors in position estimation. After the NLOS recognition, if the number of correct positions is zero continuously, it will lead to inaccurate localization. In this paper, the NLOS tracer method is proposed to solve this problem to improve the robustness of the probabilistic data association algorithm. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can mitigate the influence of NLOS errors and achieve a higher localization accuracy when compared with the existing methods.
Experimental Analysis on Skid Damage of Roller Bearing with the Time-Varying Slip and Temperature Distribution
Authors: Li Junning , Xue Jiafan , Han Ka , Wang Qian , Chen Wuge
Published: December 2019

Skid damage affects the performance of aviation bearing, which covers different disciplines in tribology, thermology, materials science, dynamics, et al. In this manuscript, a novel horizontal skid damage test rig of a rolling bearing with higher rotation accuracy and better linear contact was built, which can simulate the rolling/sliding contact between the roller and inner ring. Combining with temperature, load, speed, slip, and surface microscopy, the skid damage mechanism of roller bearings was analyzed from a multi-information perspective. Meanwhile, the dynamic lubrication failure process of the contact pair in rolling bearings with the time-varying slip and temperature distribution was revealed. The effect of different radial loads, inner ring speeds, lubricating oil quantities, and states of cleanliness on the time-varying characteristics of the temperature and the slip of the rolling bearing were obtained. Among them, the radial load has the greatest influence on the slip rate of rolling bearing. In addition, the test results show that the skid damage under extremely light load is the comprehensive effect of adhesive wear and thermal failure.
High-Frequency Fatigue Testing of Recycled Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Sainz-Aja Jose , Thomas Carlos , Polanco Juan A. , Carrascal Isidro
Published: December 2019

Concrete fatigue behaviour has not been extensively studied, in part because of the difficulty and cost. Some concrete elements subjected to this type of load include the railway superstructure of sleepers or slab track, bridges for both road and rail traffic and the foundations of wind turbine towers or offshore structures. In order to address fatigue problems, a methodology was proposed that reduces the lengthy testing time and high cost by increasing the test frequency up to the resonance frequency of the set formed by the specimen and the test machine. After comparing this test method with conventional frequency tests, it was found that tests performed at a high frequency (90 ± 5 Hz) were more conservative than those performed at a moderate frequency (10 Hz); this effect was magnified in those concretes with recycled aggregates coming from crushed concrete (RC-S). In addition, it was found that the resonance frequency of the specimen–test machine set was a parameter capable of identifying whether the specimen was close to failure.
A Remote-Sensing Method to Estimate Bulk Refractive Index of Suspended Particles from GOCI Satellite Measurements over Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea
Authors: Sun Deyong , Ling Zunbin , Wang Shengqiang , Qiu Zhongfeng , Huan Yu , Mao Zhihua , He Yijun
Published: December 2019

The bulk refractive index (np) of suspended particles, an apparent measure of particulate refraction capability and yet an essential element of particulate compositions and optical properties, is a critical indicator that helps understand many biogeochemical processes and ecosystems in marine waters. Remote estimation of np remains a very challenging task. Here, a multiple-step hybrid model is developed to estimate the np in the Bohai Sea (BS) and Yellow Sea (YS) through obtaining two key intermediate parameters (i.e., particulate backscattering ratio, Bp, and particle size distribution (PSD) slope, j) from remote-sensing reflectance, Rrs(λ). The in situ observed datasets available to us were collected from four cruise surveys during a period from 2014 to 2017 in the BS and YS, covering beam attenuation (cp), scattering (bp), and backscattering (bbp) coefficients, total suspended matter (TSM) concentrations, and Rrs(λ). Based on those in situ observation data, two retrieval algorithms for TSM and bbp were firstly established from Rrs(λ), and then close empirical relationships between cp and bp with TSM could be constructed to determine the Bp and j parameters. The series of steps for the np estimation model proposed in this study can be summarized as follows: Rrs (λ) → TSM and bbp, TSM → bp → cp → j, bbp and bp → Bp, and j and Bp → np. This method shows a high degree of fit (R2 = 0.85) between the measured and modeled np by validation, with low predictive errors (such as a mean relative error, MRE, of 2.55%), while satellite-derived results also reveal good performance (R2 = 0.95, MRE = 2.32%). A spatial distribution pattern of np in January 2017 derived from GOCI (Geostationary Ocean Color Imager) data agrees well with those in situ observations. This also verifies the satisfactory performance of our developed np estimation model. Applying this model to GOCI data for one year (from December 2014 to November 2015), we document the np spatial distribution patterns at different time scales (such as monthly, seasonal, and annual scales) for the first time in the study areas. While the applicability of our developed method to other water areas is unknown, our findings in the current study demonstrate that the method presented here can serve as a proof-of-concept template to remotely estimate np in other coastal optically complex water bodies.
Use of Machine Learning to Automate the Identification of Basketball Strategies Using Whole Team Player Tracking Data
Authors: Tian Changjia , De Silva Varuna , Caine Michael , Swanson Steve
Published: December 2019

The use of machine learning to identify and classify offensive and defensive strategies in team sports through spatio-temporal tracking data has received significant interest recently in the literature and the global sport industry. This paper focuses on data-driven defensive strategy learning in basketball. Most research to date on basketball strategy learning has focused on offensive effectiveness and is based on the interaction between the on-ball player and principle on-ball defender, thereby ignoring the contribution of the remaining players. Furthermore, most sports analytical systems that provide play-by-play data is heavily biased towards offensive metrics such as passes, dribbles, and shots. The aim of the current study was to use machine learning to classify the different defensive strategies basketball players adopt when deviating from their initial defensive action. An analytical model was developed to recognise the one-on-one (matched) relationships of the players, which is utilised to automatically identify any change of defensive strategy. A classification model is developed based on a player and ball tracking dataset from National Basketball Association (NBA) game play to classify the adopted defensive strategy against pick-and-roll play. The methodology described is the first to analyse the defensive strategy of all in-game players (both on-ball players and off-ball players). The cross-validation results indicate that the proposed technique for automatic defensive strategy identification can achieve up to 69% accuracy of classification. Machine learning techniques, such as the one adopted here, have the potential to enable a deeper understanding of player decision making and defensive game strategies in basketball and other sports, by leveraging the player and ball tracking data.
A Novel Dual-Rotor Ultrasonic Motor for Underwater Propulsion
Authors: Lu Xiaolong , Wang Zhiwen , Shen Hui , Zhao Kangdong , Pan Tianyue , Kong Dexu , Twiefel Jens
Published: December 2019

Micro underwater vehicles (MUVs) have been highlighted recently for underwater explorations because of their high maneuverability, low price, great flexibility, etc. The thrusters of most conventional MUVs are driven by electromagnetic motors, which need big mechanical transmission parts and are prone to being interrupted by the variance of ambient electromagnetic fields. In this paper, a novel dual-rotor ultrasonic motor with double output shafts, compact size, and no electromagnetic interference is presented, characterized, and applied for actuating underwater robots. This motor was composed of a spindle-shaped stator, pre-pressure modulation unit, and dual rotors, which can output two simultaneous rotations to increase the propulsion force of the MUV. The pre-pressure modulation unit utilized a torsion spring to adjust the preload at the contact faces between the stator and rotor. The working principle of the ultrasonic motor was developed and the vibration mode of the stator was analyzed by the finite element method. Experimental results show that the no-load rotary speed and stalling torque of the prototype ultrasonic motor were 110 r/min and 3 mN·m, respectively, with 150 V peak-to-peak driving voltage at resonance. One underwater robot model equipped with the proposed ultrasonic motor-powered thruster could move at 33 mm/s immersed in water. The dual-rotor ultrasonic motor proposed here provides another alternative for driving MUVs and is appropriate for developing specific MUVs when the electromagnetic interference issue needs to be considered.
Minimizing Chromium Leaching from Low-Alloy Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) Slag by Adjusting the Basicity and Cooling Rate to Control Brownmillerite Formation
Authors: Strandkvist Ida , Pålsson Kjell , Andersson Anton , Olofsson Jenny , Lennartsson Andreas , Samuelsson Caisa , Engström Fredrik
Published: December 2019

Brownmillerite is connected to chromium leaching when present in steel slags. To prevent chromium leaching, brownmillerite in slag should be prevented. Two methods for decreasing brownmillerite content in low-alloy electric arc furnace (EAF) slag were investigated: decreasing the basicity and increasing the cooling rate. The methods were tried on both laboratory scale and in full-scale production. In the laboratory scale experiments, chromium leaching decreased as the basicity decreased until brownmillerite was no longer present, slower cooling resulted in increased chromium leaching, and faster cooling decreased chromium leaching. In full-scale production, basicity modified single batches, with a basicity below 2.2, generally leached less chromium than slag batches with higher basicity, thus verifying the correlation between basicity and chromium leaching seen in laboratory scale experiments. The cooling process in the full-scale experiments was achieved either by letting the slag cool by itself in the air or by water spraying. The water-sprayed slag, which cooled faster, had less chromium leaching than the air-cooled slag. The full-scale production experiments confirmed that both decreasing basicity below 2.2 and increasing the rate of cooling could be used to decrease chromium leaching.
On the Active Adsorption of Chromium(III) from Alkaline Solutions Using Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Alguacil Francisco José , López Félix A.
Published: December 2019

The present investigation deals with the adsorption of chromium(III) from alkaline media, as representative of highly-caustic component solutions of nuclear tank wastes, using multiwalled carbon nanotubes. The adsorption of Cr(III) has been studied under various experimental conditions, i.e., stirring speed of the aqueous solution, initial metal and adsorbent concentrations, NaOH concentration in the aqueous solution, and temperature. The rate law indicated that chromium adsorption is well represented by the particle diffusion model, whereas the adsorption process fits with the pseudo-second order kinetic model within an exothermic setting. Equilibrium data fit to the Langmuir type-2 equilibrium isotherm in a spontaneous process. Chromium(III) can be eluted from metal-loaded nanotubes using acidic solutions, from which fine chromium(III) oxide pigment can ultimately be yielded.
Measuring the Use of the Active and Assisted Living Prototype CARIMO for Home Care Service Users: Evaluation Framework and Results
Authors: Schneider Cornelia , Trukeschitz Birgit , Rieser Harald
Published: December 2019

To address the challenges of aging societies, various information and communication technology (ICT)-based systems for older people have been developed in recent years. Currently, the evaluation of these so-called active and assisted living (AAL) systems usually focuses on the analyses of usability and acceptance, while some also assess their impact. Little is known about the actual take-up of these assistive technologies. This paper presents a framework for measuring the take-up by analyzing the actual usage of AAL systems. This evaluation framework covers detailed information regarding the entire process including usage data logging, data preparation, and usage data analysis. We applied the framework on the AAL prototype CARIMO for measuring its take-up during an eight-month field trial in Austria and Italy. The framework was designed to guide systematic, comparable, and reproducible usage data evaluation in the AAL field; however, the general applicability of the framework has yet to be validated.
Immunohistochemical Expression of Wilms’ Tumor 1 Protein in Human Tissues: From Ontogenesis to Neoplastic Tissues
Authors: Salvatorelli Lucia , Calabrese Giovanna , Parenti Rosalba , Vecchio Giada Maria , Puzzo Lidia , Caltabiano Rosario , Musumeci Giuseppe , Magro Gaetano
Published: December 2019

The human Wilms’ tumor gene (WT1) was originally isolated in a Wilms’ tumor of the kidney as a tumor suppressor gene. Numerous isoforms of WT1, by combination of alternative translational start sites, alternative RNA splicing and RNA editing, have been well documented. During human ontogenesis, according to the antibodies used, anti-C or N-terminus WT1 protein, nuclear expression can be frequently obtained in numerous tissues, including metanephric and mesonephric glomeruli, and mesothelial and sub-mesothelial cells, while cytoplasmic staining is usually found in developing smooth and skeletal cells, myocardium, glial cells, neuroblasts, adrenal cortical cells and the endothelial cells of blood vessels. WT1 has been originally described as a tumor suppressor gene in renal Wilms’ tumor, but more recent studies emphasized its potential oncogenic role in several neoplasia with a variable immunostaining pattern that can be exclusively nuclear, cytoplasmic or both, according to the antibodies used (anti-C or N-terminus WT1 protein). With the present review we focus on the immunohistochemical expression of WT1 in some tumors, emphasizing its potential diagnostic role and usefulness in differential diagnosis. In addition, we analyze the WT1 protein expression profile in human embryonal/fetal tissues in order to suggest a possible role in the development of organs and tissues and to establish whether expression in some tumors replicates that observed during the development of tissues from which these tumors arise.
Improving Calculation Accuracy of Digital Filters Based on Finite Field Algebra
Authors: Kaplun Dmitry , Aryashev Sergey , Veligosha Alexander , Doynikova Elena , Lyakhov Pavel , Butusov Denis
Published: December 2019

The applications of digital filters based on finite field algebra codes require their conjugation with positional computing structures. Here arises the task of algorithms and structures developed for converting the positional notation codes to finite field algebra codes. The paper proposes a method for codes conversion that possesses several advantages over existing methods. The possibilities and benefits of optimization of the computational channel structure for digital filter functioning based on the codes of finite field algebra are shown. The modified structure of computational channel is introduced. It differs from the traditional structure by the fact that there is no explicit code converter in it. The main principle is that the “reference” values of input samples, which are free from the error of the analog-digital converter, are used as input samples. The proposed approach allows achieving a higher quality of signal processing in advanced digital filters.
Effect of Different Bonding Materials on Flip-Chip LED Filament Properties
Authors: Guan Chengyu , Zou Jun , Chen Qingchang , Shi Mingming , Yang Bobo
Published: December 2019

This article researches the effect of Sn-based solder alloys on flip-chip light-emitting diode LED (FC-LED) filament properties. SEM images, shearing force, steady-state voltage, blue light luminous flux, and junction temperature were examined to demonstrate the difference between two types of FC-LED filaments welded with two solders. The microstructure surface of Sn90Sb10 filament solder joints was smoother and had fewer voids and cracks compared with that of SAC0307 filament solder joints, which indicates that the Sn90Sb10 filaments had a higher shearing force than the SAC0307 filaments; moreover, the average shearing force was beyond 200 gf (standard shearing force). The steady-state voltage and junction temperature of the Sn90Sb10 solder-welded FC-LED filament were lower, and the Sn90Sb10 filament had a relatively higher blue light luminous flux. If high reliability of the solder joints and better photoelectric properties of the filaments are required, this Sn90Sb10 solder is the best bonding material for FC-LED filament welding.