bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shakedown Analysis of Composite Steel-Concrete Frame Systems with Plastic and Brittle Elements Under Seismic Action
Authors: Alawdin Piotr , Bulanov George
Published: June 2017

In this paper the earthquake analysis of composite steel-concrete frames is performed by finding solution of the optimization problem of shakedown analysis, which takes into account the nonlinear properties of materials. The constructions are equipped with systems bearing structures of various elastic-plastic and brittle elements absorbing energy of seismic actions. A mathematical model of this problem is presented on the base of limit analysis theory with partial redistribution of self-stressed internal forces. It is assumed that the load varies randomly within the specified limits. These limits are determined by the possible direction and magnitude of seismic loads. The illustrative example of such analysis of system is introduced. Some attention has been paid to the practical application of the proposed mathematical model.
Truss Joint with Positive Eccentricity Experimental Research
Authors: Gordziej-Zagórowska Małgorzata , Urbańska-Galewska Elżbieta , Deniziak Patryk , Pyrzowski Łukasz
Published: June 2017

Due to the technological reasons in modern lightweight steel trusses, fabricated from cold-formed sections, positive eccentricities appear in the truss nodes what induce additional forces in the truss chords. To account for the real load-carrying capacity of truss node area the steel structure research in scale 1:1 were conducted. The experiments consisted of two parts: preliminary and proper one, when conclusions from the first part were applied. Carrying out preliminary studies helped to identify of the research station drawbacks and eliminate most of them, what ensure the appropriate research results. The initial numerical analysis were also conducted what was presented in the paper.
Flexural Elastic Buckling Stress of Batten Type Light Gauge Built-Up Member
Authors: Mitsui Kazuya , Sato Atsushi
Published: June 2017

In Japan, built-up member composed with light gauge is used for studs of shear wall. Flexural buckling stress of built-up compression member is evaluated by effective slenderness ratio. The effective slenderness ratio of light gauge built-up compression member is proposed for heavy sections; however, it is not verified that it can be adopted in light gauge. In this paper, full scale testing of light gauge built-up members are conducted. From the test results, it is shown that current Standard overestimates the buckling strength. Based on energy equilibrium theory, modified effective slenderness ratio for light gauge built-up member is derived. The validity of the modified effective slenderness ratio is shown with test results.
Rotation Capacity of Bolted Flush End-Plate Stiffened Beam-to-Column Connection
Authors: Ostrowski Krzysztof , Kozłowski Aleksander
Published: June 2017

One of the flexibility parameters of semi-rigid joints is rotation capacity. Plastic rotation capacity is especially important in plastic design of framed structures. Current design codes, including Eurocode 3, do not posses procedures enabling designers to obtain value of rotation capacity. In the paper the calculation procedure of the rotation capacity for stiffened bolted flush end-plate beam-to-column connections has been proposed. Theory of experiment design was applied with the use of Hartley’s PS/DS-P:Ha3 plan. The analysis was performed with the use of finite element method (ANSYS), based on the numerical experiment plan. The determination of maximal rotation angle was carried out with the use of regression analysis. The main variables analyzed in parametric study were: pitch of the bolt “w” (120-180 mm), the distance between the bolt axis and the beam upper edge cg1 (50-90 mm) and the thickness of the end-plate tp (10-20 mm). Power function was proposed to describe available rotation capacity of the joint. Influence of the particular components on the rotation capacity was also investigated. In the paper a general procedure for determination of rotation capacity was proposed.
On Determinants Of The Economic Growth Of European Countries During 2005–2015
Authors: Mazurek Jiří
Published: June 2017

The aim of the paper is to examine the economic growth of 32 European countries from 2005 to 2015. This period was characterized by a strong growth prior to 2009, when the Great Recession started, and lasted until 2012–2013 in the majority of examined countries. The growth between 2005 and 2015 was studied with regard to six selected socio-economic factors: initial level of the gross domestic product, economic openness, democracy index, human capital, physical capital, and foreign direct investments. The main result is that the growth was directly proportional to human and physical capital, and indirectly proportional to the initial level of GDP and the democracy index. Furthermore, cluster analysis showed that the historical division of Europe into “West” and “East” still persists to a considerable extent.
Unemployment Rates Forecasts – Unobserved Component Models Versus SARIMA Models In Central And Eastern European Countries
Authors: Będowska-Sójka Barbara
Published: June 2017

In this paper we compare the accuracy of unemployment rates forecasts of eight Central and Eastern European countries. The unobserved component models and seasonal ARIMA models are used within a rolling short-term forecast experiment as an out-of-sample test of forecast accuracy. We find that unemployment rates present clear unconditional asymmetry in three out of eight countries. Half the cases there is no difference between forecasting accuracy of the methods used in the study. In the remaining, a proper specification of seasonal ARIMA model allows to generate better forecasts than from unobserved component models. The forecasting accuracy deteriorates in periods of rapid upward and downward movement and improves in periods of gradual change in the unemployment rates.
Vaginal omentum prolapse due to uterine anterior wall necrosis after prophylactic compression suture for postpartum hemorrhage: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Seidel Vera , Braun Thorsten , Chekerov Radoslav , Nonnenmacher Andreas , Siedentopf Jan-Peter , Henrich Wolfgang
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Postpartum or peripartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a major cause of maternal death in Western industrialized countries. Fertility preserving second stage interventions following uterotonic drugs include embolization or ligation of relevant arteries, uterine tamponade or compression sutures. Little is known about the complications due to uterine compression sutures. We describe a case report in association with uterine compression sutures and provide a systematic review on necrosis due to compression sutures (CSU).

Data sources

A PubMed database search was done up to October 1, 2016 without any restrictions of publication date or journal, using the following key words: “compression suture” and “postpartum hemorrhage” or “peripartum hemorrhage”. Reported cases were considered eligible when reason for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), type of compression suture, suture material and type of complication were described.

Results

Among 199 publications a total of 11 reported on uterus necrosis after CSU applied for PPH. B-Lynch and modifications were applied in seven cases, Cho compression sutures in three cases and in one case B-Lynch and Cho techniques were combined. In six cases no additional measures were applied, in two cases vessel ligation, in one case embolization and in one case intrauterine balloon application were applied. In one case of partial necrosis it is not reported if additional measures were applied.

Discussion and conclusion

Uterine compression sutures are a useful method for fertility preserving management of postpartum hemorrhage. The risk of serious complications demands the careful consideration of its use. More research is necessary to improve the technique.
Bounds for the average-case complexity of monotone Boolean functions
Authors: Chashkin Aleksandr V.
Published: June 2017

We consider average-case complexity of computing monotone Boolean functions by straight-line programs with a conditional stop over the basis of all Boolean functions of at most two variables. For the set of all n-ary monotone Boolean functions new Shannon-type upper and lower bounds for the average-case complexity as n → ∞ are established.
Influence of soil physical and chemical variables on species composition and richness of plants in the arid region of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Mutairi Khalid Awadh
Published: June 2017

The present study aims to investigate the effect of soil physical and chemical variables on the species richness and the floristic composition in four sites (Alwaz, Alqan, Sharma and Zetah) of Tabuk region in the Northwestern part of Arabian Peninsula. Only organic matter (OM), pH and calcium (Ca) showed significant differences (P < 0.05) amongst the four studied sites. Only magnesium and sodium were selected in the forward regression model and showed to be strong drivers of species richness of plants in Tabuk region (Adj-R2 = 0.438, F2,13 = 6.85, P = 0.009). The multivariate analysis of canonical correspondence analysis (CCA ) was applied to reveal the effect of the physical and chemical variables on the species composition of the plants. The CCA classifies the plant species into three groups based on their preference to the environmental variables. The first group of plant species (Group 1) is characterised by positive preference to the chloride (Cl) and negative relationship with OM and pH. The second group (Group 2) is positively correlated with most of the soil variables such as OM, calcium (Ca), potassium (K), bicarbonate (HCO3), electrical conductivity (EC), sulphate (SO4) and sodium (Na). The third group (Group 3) has positive relationship with carbonate (CO3) and negative relationship with EC and magnesium (Mg). The chloride, sodium, sulphate, EC and carbonate are the main environmental factors influencing the plant species composition in Tabuk region. The cluster analysis based on the Euclidian measure shows that Alqan and Zetah have closer species composition compared to Sharma.
Evaluation of Many Load Tests of Passive Rock Bolts in the Czech Republic
Authors: Holý Ondřej
Published: June 2017

Within the research project “FR-TI4/329 Research and development - creating an application system for the design and analysis of soil and rock anchors including the development of monitoring elements”, an extensive stage of field load tests of rock bolts was carried out. The tests were conducted at 14 locations with varied rock composition. Before the initial tests, a loading stand was designed and constructed. A total of 201 pieces of tensile tests of bolts having lengths from 0.5 up to 2.5 m, a diameter of 22-32 mm, were performed. These were fully threaded rods, self-drilling rods, and fiberglass rods. The bolts were clamped into the cement and resin. The loading tests were always performed until material failure of bolts or shear stress failure at the interface cement-rock. At each location, basic geotechnical survey was carried out in the form of core drilling in a length of 3.0 metres with the assessment of the rock mass in situ, and laboratory testing of rock mechanics. Upon the completion of testing protocols, rock mass properties analysis was performed focusing on the evaluation of shear friction at the grouting-rock interface.
Cardiopulmonary Performance During Maximal Exercise in Soccer Players with Alterations in Renal Function
Authors: Morales Anderson Pontes , Sampaio-Jorge Felipe , da Cruz Rangel Luiz Felipe , de Souza Menezes Jackson , Leite Tiago Costa , Ribeiro Beatriz Gonçalves
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the curves of cardiorespiratory variables during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) in soccer players who had acute alterations in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) after performing the pre-season training protocol. Sixteen male professional soccer players (25 ± 3 years; 179 ± 2 cm; and 77 ± 6 kg) were evaluated for oxygen uptake (VO2), heart rate (HR) and pulse relative oxygen (relative O2 Pulse) curves with intervals corresponding to 10% of the total duration of CPET. Athletes were grouped according to the GFR and classified as decreased GFR (dGFR; n = 8) and normal GFR (nGFR; n = 8). Athletes from the dGFR group exhibited lower VO2 values (p < 0.05) when 90% (dGFR 49.8 ± 4.0 vs. nGFR 54.4 ± 6.1 ml·kg-1·min-1) and 100% (dGFR 52.6 ± 4.1 vs. nGFR 57.4 ± 5.9 ml·kg-1·min-1) of the test was complete; HR high values (p < 0.05) when 90% (dGFR 183.7 ± 5.1 vs. nGFR 176.6 ± 4.8 bpm-1) and 100% (dGFR 188.1 ± 5.0 vs. nGFR 180.8 ± 4.8 bpm-1) of the test was complete; and lower relative O2 Pulse values (p < 0.05) when 70% (dGFR 25.6 ± 8.4 vs. nGFR 27.9 ± 9.7 ml·beat-1·kg-1), 80% (dGFR 26.6 ± 8.8 vs. nGFR 29.1 ± 10.0 ml·beat-1·kg-1), 90% (dGFR 27.1 ± 9.0 vs. nGFR 30.8 ± 10.6 ml·beat-1·kg-1) and 100% (dGFR 28 ± 9.2 vs. nGFR 31.8 ± 10.9 ml·beat-1·kg-1) of the test was complete. A correlation was found (r = −0.66, R2 = 0.44, p = 0.00) between lower VO2 peak and elevated levels of urinary protein excretion. In conclusion, soccer players with reduced kidney function after performing the pre-season training protocol also presented alterations in cardiopulmonary variables. We suggest that monitoring of renal function may be used to identify less conditioned soccer players.
A Comparison of GPS Workload Demands in Match Play and Small-Sided Games by the Positional Role in Youth Soccer
Authors: Beenham Mathew , Barron David J. , Fry John , Hurst Howard H. , Figueirdo Antonio , Atkins Steve
Published: June 2017

The external demands of small-sided games (SSGs) according to the positional role are currently unknown. Using a Catapult Minimax X3 5 Hz GPS, with a 100 Hz tri-axial accelerometer, we compared the accumulated tri-axial player workload per min (PLacc·min-1) during friendly youth match play (MP) (11 vs. 11) and SSGs (2 vs. 2, 3 vs. 3, and 4 vs. 4). Significant differences existed between all SSGs and MP for PLacc·min-1 (F = 21.91, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.38), and individual X (F = 27.40, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.43), Y (F = 14.50, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.29) and Z (F = 19.28, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.35) axis loads. Across all conditions, mean PLacc·min-1 was greater for midfielders (p = 0.004, CI: 0.68, 4.56) and forwards (p = 0.037, CI: 0.08, 3.97) than central defenders. In all conditions, greater Y axis values existed for wide defenders (p = 0.024, CI: 0.67, 1.38), midfielders (p = 0.006, CI: 0.18, 1.50) and forwards (p = 0.007, CI: 0.17, 0.15) compared to central defenders. Midfielders reported greater Z axis values compared to central defenders (p = 0.002, CI: 0.40, 2.23). We concluded that SSGs elicited greater external loads than MP, and previous studies may have underestimated the demands of SSGs.
A Model for Determining the Effect of the Wind Velocity on 100 M Sprinting Performance
Authors: Janjic Natasa , Kapor Darko , Doder Dragan , Petrovic Aleksandar , Doder Radoslava
Published: June 2017

This paper introduces an equation for determining instantaneous and final velocity of a sprinter in a 100 m run completed with a wind resistance ranging from 0.1 to 4.5 m/s. The validity of the equation was verified using the data of three world class sprinters: Carl Lewis, Maurice Green, and Usain Bolt. For the given constant wind velocity with the values + 0.9 and + 1.1 m/s, the wind contribution to the change of sprinter velocity was the same for the maximum as well as for the final velocity. This study assessed how the effect of the wind velocity influenced the change of sprinting velocity. The analysis led to the conclusion that the official limit of safely neglecting the wind influence could be chosen as 1 m/s instead of 2 m/s, if the velocity were presented using three, instead of two decimal digits. This implies that wind velocity should be rounded off to two decimal places instead of the present practice of one decimal place. In particular, the results indicated that the influence of wind on the change of sprinting velocity in the range of up to 2 m/s and was of order of magnitude of 10-3 m/s. This proves that the IAAF Competition Rules correctly neglect the influence of the wind with regard to such velocities. However, for the wind velocity over 2 m/s, the wind influence is of order 10-2 m/s and cannot be neglected.
Critical Factors for Implementing Blended Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Mozelius Peter , Hettiarachchi Enosha
Published: June 2017

The use of blended learning environments in higher education has rapidly increased in the 21st century. Tools and techniques that initially were used in experimental distance education courses are today part of mainstream education with blended learning as a continuum between traditional face-to-face teaching and pure online courses. In this wide variety of course design there are success stories, but at the same time examples with low pass rates and poor learning outcomes. The research question for the study is: Which aspects have to be considered in the design and implementation of blended learning in higher education? To answer this question, 15 selected publications were analysed in a literature review with the aim to identify important and critical factors when implementing blended learning in higher education. As a result of the inductive analysis around 50 found factors have been grouped into 10 Categories of critical factors and 4 Blended learning perspectives in a strive to identify critical aspects of contemporary blended learning in a comprehensive structure. One conclusion is that blended learning today can be seen as a mature educational concept still in need of redesign. Problems that were reported two decades ago are now combined with other more recently identified critical factors. The presented categories and perspectives might be valuable as a checklist for implementations of blended learning and hopefully a useful base for further research in the field of blended learning.
Numerical Solutions of the Modified Burgers’ Equation by Finite Difference Methods
Authors: Ucar Yusuf , Yagmurlu Nuri Murat , Tasbozan Orkun
Published: June 2017

In this study, a numerical solution of the modified Burgers’ equation is obtained by the finite difference methods. For the solution process, two linearization techniques have been applied to get over the non-linear term existing in the equation. Then, some comparisons have been made between the obtained results and those available in the literature. Furthermore, the error norms L2 and L∞ are computed and found to be sufficiently small and compatible with others in the literature. The stability analysis of the linearized finite difference equations obtained by two different linearization techniques has been separately conducted via Fourier stability analysis method.
Feasible Generalized Stein-Rule Restricted Ridge Regression Estimators
Authors: Özbay Nimet , Dawoud Issam , Kaçıranlar Selahattin
Published: June 2017

Several versions of the Stein-rule estimators of the coefficient vector in a linear regression model are proposed in the literature. In the present paper, we propose new feasible generalized Stein-rule restricted ridge regression estimators to examine multicollinearity and autocorrelation problems simultaneously for the general linear regression model, when certain additional exact restrictions are placed on these coefficients. Moreover, a Monte Carlo simulation experiment is performed to investigate the performance of the proposed estimator over the others.
Effect of feedstock impurities on activity and selectivity of V-Mo-Nb-Te-Ox catalyst in ethane oxidative dehydrogenation
Authors: Finashina Elena D. , Kucherov Alexei V. , Kustov Leonid M. , Cai Haiyong , Krzywicki Andrzej
Published: June 2017

The effect of CH
Postprandial hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia in a child as a late complication of esophageal reconstruction
Authors: Vukovic Rade , Milenkovic Tatjana , Djordjevic Maja , Mitrovic Katarina , Todorovic Sladjana , Sarajlija Adrijan , Hussain Khalid
Published: June 2017

Background:

Postprandial hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (PHH) is an increasingly recognized complication of gastric bypass surgery in obese adults, distinct from the “dumping syndrome”.

Case presentation:

Upon birth, primary repair of esophageal atresia was performed, and at the age of 14 months definite esophageal reconstruction was performed. At the age of 3 years, recurrent brief episodes of symptomatic hypoglycemia started. At the age of 5.7 years the girl was admitted to our clinic and investigations indicated hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and continuous glucose monitoring results revealed frequent postprandial hypoglycemic events, which were always preceded by early postprandial hyperglycemia. It was concluded that the patient had PHH caused by a delayed and hyperinsulinemic response to carbohydrate intake as a result of esophagogastric surgery. Treatment with acarbose was titrated using flash glucose monitoring, which resulted in satisfactory glucose regulation.

Conclusions:

This is the first described case of a child with PHH following esophageal reconstruction.
Hypercoiling of the umbilical cord in uncomplicated singleton pregnancies
Authors: Ma’ayeh Marwan , McClennen Evan , Chamchad Dmitri , Geary Michael , Brest Norman , Gerson Andrew
Published: June 2017

Background:

The umbilical coiling index (UCI) is a measure of the number of coils in the umbilical cord in relation to its length. Hypercoiled cords with a UCI of >0.3 coils/cm have been associated with adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes.

Aims:

The primary aim is to determine the accuracy of UCI measured on second trimester ultrasound in predicting UCI at birth. The secondary outcome is to investigate the association between hypercoiling of the umbilical cord on prenatal ultrasound and adverse maternal, fetal and neonatal outcomes.

Methods:

This was a prospective cohort study of uncomplicated singleton pregnancies. Seventy two patients were included in the study. UCI was measured in the second trimester ultrasound, and compared to UCI measured postnatally. Outcomes of patients with hypercoiled cords on ultrasound were compared to outcomes of patients with normocoiled cords.

Results:

Our results failed to show a strong correlation between the UCI determined with ultrasound, and the UCI determined with examination of the umbilical cord after delivery. We also did not demonstrate that measurement of the UCI on second trimester ultrasound is able to predict adverse maternal, fetal or neonatal outcomes.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that measurement of the umbilical coiling index should not be part of routine second trimester sonography in patients with uncomplicated singleton pregnancies, with no other medical or surgical comorbidities.
The misoprostol vaginal insert compared with oral misoprostol for labor induction in term pregnancies: a pair-matched case-control study
Authors: Döbert Moritz , Brandstetter Aleke , Henrich Wolfgang , Rawnaq Tamina , Hasselbeck Hendrik , Döbert Timm Fabian , Hinkson Larry , Schwaerzler Peter
Published: June 2017

Aim:

To compare the efficacy and safety of the misoprostol vaginal insert (MVI) with an off-label use of oral misoprostol (OM).

Methods:

Pair-matched case-control study comparing the induction of labor with a retrievable MVI to OM. The primary outcomes were the time from induction to delivery and the cesarean section rate. Secondary outcomes included uterine tachysystole, tocolysis, fetal scalp blood testing, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, umbilical arterial pH, and Apgar score.

Results:

One hundred and thirty eight women ≥37/0 weeks pregnant undergoing labor induction with misoprostol were included. The mean time from application to delivery was significantly shorter and the caesarean section rate significantly higher in the MVI group (P<0.01) with an odds ratio of 2.75 (95% CI: 1.21–6.25) in favor of vaginal delivery in the OM group. The mean 5-min Apgar scores and arterial cord pH values were significantly lower in the MVI group. An arterial pH value of 7.10–7.19 was found in 26.1% and 15.9%, and a value <7.10 was found in 4.3% and 0% of MVI and OM cases, respectively.

Conclusion:

The MVI compared with OM significantly shortened the time from application to delivery at the expense of a higher cesarean section rate and negative effects on neonatal outcomes.
General Anesthesia Effect on Acid Base and Serum Calcium and Phosphorus Levels in Relation to Anesthetic Risk in Dogs
Authors: Lipták Tomáš , Ledecký Valent , Ďurej Marek , Nagy Oskar , Kuricová Mária
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of general anesthesia on selected blood parameters in 53 surgical patients belonging to five ASA groups. The venous blood pH during the preoperative period was under physiological values only in the ASA V group of dogs. The lowest average values of pH levels were found in all ASA groups during the 30th minute of the surgical procedure. The pre-operative measurements revealed the average concentration of calcium in the blood serum below the physiological range in the groups with higher anesthetic risk, ASA III, IV and V. Most dogs with hypocalcemia during the whole monitored period were in the ASA III group (69.2%). After premedication and sedation a decrease in the concentration of calcium in all groups was observed, except for the ASA IV group. Changes in the concentration of calcium were significant in the ASA II group (P ≤ 0.01). Between the groups, there were no significant differences reported in calcium concentrations during the monitored period. The lowest average value of phosphorus concentration was recorded in the ASA III group and the highest in the ASA V group. In the postoperative period the increase in phosphorus concentrations was observed in all groups except ASA III. Acidaemia, hypocalcaemia and hyperphosphatemia may present a potential risk mostly in endangered animals, so additional monitoring of these parameters, along with commonly used anesthetic monitoring, is essential and might be significantly helpful.
The accessibilityof Poland’s Space to the Trans-European Transport Network
Authors: Wiśniewski Szymon
Published: June 2017

The aim of the article is to analyse the land transport accessibility of two trans-European corridors within the boundaries of Poland. The adjustment of the course of transport routes to the distribution of the population and the country’s land development (including economic potential and logistic infrastructure) was outlined using measurements of cumulative accessibility. The results were presented in both cartographic form (isochrone approach) and tabular form (cumulative approach). Research was conducted adopting different forms of transport used for relocation (including foot traffic, car, rail and multimodal transport) and both the current and target layout of the transport network. This made it possible to determine the changes that will effectively run the process of investment in transport infrastructure on Polish territory. This allowed the identification of the areas of Poland which are particularly conveniently located in relation to domestic connections (in terms of the international network) and those for which the European transport network remains difficult to access.
Sharp phase variations from the plasmon mode causing the Rabi-analogue splitting
Authors: Wang Yujia , Sun Chengwei , Gan Fengyuan , Li Hongyun , Gong Qihuang , Chen Jianjun
Published: June 2017

The Rabi-analogue splitting in nanostructures resulting from the strong coupling of different resonant modes is of importance for lasing, sensing, switching, modulating, and quantum information processes. To give a clearer physical picture, the phase analysis instead of the strong coupling is provided to explain the Rabi-analogue splitting in the Fabry-Pérot (FP) cavity, of which one end mirror is a metallic nanohole array and the other is a thin metal film. The phase analysis is based on an analytic model of the FP cavity, in which the reflectance and the reflection phase of the end mirrors are dependent on the wavelength. It is found that the Rabi-analogue splitting originates from the sharp phase variation brought by the plasmon mode in the FP cavity. In the experiment, the Rabi-analogue splitting is realized in the plasmonic-photonic coupling system, and this splitting can be continually tuned by changing the length of the FP cavity. These experimental results agree well with the analytic and simulation data, strongly verifying the phase analysis based on the analytic model. The phase analysis presents a clear picture to understand the working mechanism of the Rabi-analogue splitting; thus, it may facilitate the design of the plasmonic-photonic and plasmonic-plasmonic coupling systems.
Novel analytical approaches to determination of chemical warfare agents and related compounds for verification of nonproliferation of chemical weapons
Authors: Rybalchenko Igor V. , Rodin Igor A. , Baygildiev Timur M. , Stavrianidi Andrey N. , Braun Arcady V. , Morozik Yury I. , Shpigun Oleg A.
Published: June 2017

In this paper a summary of the author’s approaches for investigation of the mass spectral behavior of some chemical warfare agents (CWAs), their degradation products and metabolites, as well as the results of development of analytical methods for confirmation of nerve and blister agents application are presented. Hydrolysis and oxidation metabolites of nerve agents, sulfur mustard and lewisite were used as biomarkers of the exposure. Sensitive analytical methods have been developed for their detection, based mainly on tandem mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography. Several techniques for fast screening of CWAs degradation products based on capillary electrophoresis were also proposed. Some of developed approaches were successfully applied in the frame of the proficiency testing system of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
The Moravian Gate as route of migration of thermophilous bee species to Poland: fact or myth? A case study in the “Góra Gipsowa” steppe reserve and other habitats near Kietrz
Authors: Banaszak Józef , Twerd Lucyna , Sobieraj-Betlińska Anna , Kilińska Barbara
Published: June 2017

This study complements earlier research on wild bees (Apiformes) in the “Góra Gipsowa” steppe reserve and other habitats near the town of Kietrz (SW Poland), close to the Czech border. It also attempts to reassess the opinion of some researchers about the Moravian Gate as a migration route of southern species to Poland. 109 bee species were recorded at the study sites, including 10 red-listed ones; southern species accounted for 16.5% of this number. The hypothetical route of migration of thermophilous bees through the Moravian Gate to Poland was analysed and the species composition of southern species at either side of the Moravian Gate compared. The results of this study indicate that at present the Moravian Gate plays no part in the migration of southern bee species to Poland.
Preliminary observations of necrophagous dipteran activities and a new host record of parasitoids on a high-rise building
Authors: Heo Chong Chin , Latif Baha , Kurahashi Hiromu , Tan Siew Hwa , Chew Wai Kian , Nazni Wasi Ahmad , Omar Baharudin
Published: June 2017

A preliminary study on the ecological activities of necrophagous Diptera on a highrise building in Malaysia was conducted from April to August 2010. Fresh chicken livers (approximately 500 g) serving as bait were placed on the rooftop (101.6 m from the ground). Three replicates were carried out, each replicate lasting 30 days with daily observations and fly sampling. Maggots found in the bait were collected at random: some were preserved in 70% ethanol while the others were reared to the adult stage. Results showed that the flies arrived on the bait between 8 hours and 3 days after placement. The oriental latrine blow fly Chrysomya megacephala (Diptera: Calliphoridae) was the first to reach this altitude, followed by the scuttle fly Megaselia scalaris (Diptera: Phoridae) and the flesh fly Liopygia ruficornis (Diptera: Sarcophagidae). The larvae of Chrysomya megacephala were first recovered from the bait. However, they were succeeded by sarcophagid larvae. The predominant sarcophagid larvae were then raised to the adult stage and the resulting adults were identified as Parasarcophaga dux. The other sarcophagid pupae were either parasitized by hymenopteran parasitoids or dead. We recorded two species of parasitoids emerging from Liopygia ruficornis pupae: Exoristobia philippinensis (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and Dirhinus himalayanus (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae). Liopygia ruficornis is recorded as a new host for these parasitoids for the first time.
Redescription of Erythmelus dichromocnemus NOVICKY, 1953 stat. rev. (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae) and a new synonymy
Authors: Triapitsyn Serguei V. , Berezovskiy Vladimir V. , Jałoszyński Paweł
Published: June 2017

Erythmelus (Erythmelus) dichromocnemus NOVICKY, 1953 stat. rev. (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae) is removed from its previous synonymy under E. (Erythmelus) flavovarius (WALKER, 1846), reinstated as a valid name, and redescribed. Its morphological structures are illustrated, and a lectotype is designated based on a syntype female collected in Warsaw, Poland. Erythmelus (Erythmelellus) lygivorus VIGGIANI & JESU, 1985 syn. n. is placed as a junior synonym under E. dichromocnemus. Specimens of E. (Erythmelus) agilis (ENOCK, 1909), E. dichromocnemus, E. flavovarius, E. (Parallelaptera) panis (ENOCK, 1909) and Litus cynipseus HALIDAY, 1833 in the Svatoslav NOVICKY (Światosław NOWICKI) collection of Mymaridae in Portici, Italy were remounted in Canada balsam from the dried and often darkened original water-soluble mountant medium to prevent further deterioration, and their distribution data are given.
A step by step approach in differential diagnosing of adrenal incidentaloma (epinephroma), (with comments on the new Clinical Practice Guidelines of the European Society of Endocrinology)
Authors: Farrugia Frederick-Anthony , Misiakos Evangelos , Martikos Georgios , Tzanetis Panagiotis , Charalampopoulos Anestis , Zavras Nicolaos , Sotiropoulos Dimitrios , Koliakos Nikolaos
Published: June 2017

Objectives. To present a step by step approach for the diagnosis of adrenal incidentaloma (AI).

Method. An extensive review of the literature was conducted, searching the Pub-Med and Google Scholar using the Mesh terms; Adrenal; Incidentaloma; Adrenal tumours; Radiology; Diagnosis. We also did a cross-referencing search of the literature. Comments on the new European guidelines are presented.

Results. The majority of the tumours are non-functioning benign adenomas. The most important radiological characteristic of an adrenal incidentaloma is the radiation attenuation coefficient. Wash out percentage and the imaging characteristics of the tumour may help in diagnosis.

Conclusion. Density less than 10 HU is in most cases characteristic of a lipid rich benign adenoma. More than 10 HU or/and history of malignancy raise the possibility for cancer. 1 mg dexamethasone test and plasma metanephrines should be done in all patients. If there is history of hypokalemia and/or resistant hypertension we test the plasma aldosterone to plasma renin ratio (ARR). Newer studies have shown that tumours even nonfunctioning and less than 4 cm may increase the metabolic risks so we may consider surgery at an earlier stage.
Síndrome de desgaste emocional en investigadoras. El caso de la Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco / Emotional burnout syndrome syndrome in women researchers. The case of the Juárez Autonomous University of Tabasco
Authors: Magaña Medina Deneb Elí , Surdez Pérez Edith Georgina , Aguilar Morales Norma
Published: June 2017

Diversos estudios han presentado evidencia de una propensión de las mujeres a presentar niveles elevados de un tipo particular de estrés, el burnout o síndrome de desgaste emocional (SDE) como se le ha operativizado. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar a través de un enfoque cualitativo la presencia del SDE y las causas asociadas en las investigadoras que pertenecen al Sistema Nacional de Investigadores de la Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco y su relación con el desarrollo de su trayectoria en investigación. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 13 investigadoras y el análisis de las categorías fue realizado con el método de codificación abierta, axial y selectiva con el apoyo del programa Atlas.ti, 6.0.15. Los resultados presentan evidencia de agotamiento emocional asociado a multiplicidad de funciones y sobrecarga de trabajo, despersonalización hacia los estudiantes y disminución del sentimiento de realización personal relacionado con diversas causas, entre ellas la falta de reconocimiento. Se concluye que las investigadoras si perciben presencia del SDE generado por multiplicidad de funciones, lo cual si afecta su trayectoria en investigación pero no se percibe ligado a una cuestión de género, sino de índole estructural.
Revisión de los aspectos para la evaluación de la nutrición y alimentación en programas de salud de hato de ganado lechero I: evaluación del hato
Authors: Alpízar Solís Carlos
Published: June 2017

La alimentación desempeña un rol preponderante en el rendimiento de las vacas lecheras y  busca, fundamentalmente, llenar los requerimientos nutricionales de los animales, garantizar la salud y función digestivas, así como optimizar el aprovechamiento de los recursos disponibles y las raciones, para obtener la más óptima relación beneficio-costo por alimentación. Por tanto, las prácticas de alimentación empleadas deben orientarse a cumplir alguno o todos los aspectos anteriores. Esta revisión tiene como objetivo orientar sobre los principales aspectos de la alimentación del ganado bovino que deben considerarse, como mínimo, en los programas para la atención veterinaria de fincas dedicadas a la producción de leche bovina y apoyar las labores del veterinario. Además, busca la integración de diferentes aspectos médicos y de manejo, especialmente la alimentación y de esa manera, motivar a los veterinarios encargados de atender las fincas lecheras, a desarrollar y emplear las mejores herramientas o métodos de abordaje en las fincas. Se describen aspectos que se pueden medir y evaluar en la práctica, además de ser  utilizados como referencia para el control de la alimentación, el estado nutricional, la salud ruminal, el desempeño de los animales y el balance de las raciones. Los aspectos de la nutrición y alimentación que se incluyen en el cuerpo del texto son el consumo de alimento, la condición corporal, el balance energético, la producción láctea, el metabolismo de nitrógeno y el funcionamiento y salud digestivas. Finalmente, se concluye que el manejo alimentario en la finca debe ir apoyado por el análisis integral de los datos obtenidos en la evaluación del sistema de alimentación, en conjunto con otros como la producción y reproducción; además, debe involucrarse a todo el equipo de trabajo en la evaluación de los resultados. Los esfuerzos deben orientarse a obtener las metas propuestas inicialmente para el sistema de alimentación.
Investigating Parent Needs, Participation, and Psychological Distress in the Children’s Hospital
Authors: Jones Jessica , Nowacki Amy S. , Greene Amy , Traul Christine , Goldfarb Johanna
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Greater parent participation in a child’s hospital care is associated with better child outcomes in the hospital and after discharge. This study examined the relationships between perceived need fulfillment for parents, parent participation in hospital care, and parent psychological distress. We hypothesized that greater perceived need fulfillment would be associated with greater participation in hospital care and decreased psychological distress.

METHODS:

In this prospective cohort study, 166 parents completed questionnaires on a pediatric (nonintensive care) floor. Eligible parents were fluent in English and had a child who was hospitalized ≥2 nights. Previously validated questionnaires were used to assess parent participation in hospital care and psychological distress (defined here as symptoms of anxiety/depression). A modified version of the Bereaved Parent Needs Assessment was used to assess perceived need fulfillment. The association between perceived need fulfillment and each outcome variable was examined using multiple linear regression analyses.

RESULTS:

Of 186 eligible parents, 166 were enrolled (1 declined, 19 missed/not present). In multivariable analyses, greater perceived need fulfillment was associated with greater participation in hospital care and fewer symptoms of depression, even after controlling for relevant covariates. Exploratory analyses identified needs that were differentially important within groups of parents at risk for distress.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests that assessing and supporting parent needs during a child’s hospitalization may improve parent and child outcomes by increasing parents’ ability to participate in hospital care and decreasing psychological distress. Future research is needed to investigate the impact of interventions targeting specific parent needs.
Risk Factors for Fractures in Children Hospitalized in Intensive and Intermediate Care Units
Authors: Zenlea Ian S. , Melvin Patrice , Huh Susanna Y. , Mehta Nilesh , Reidy Suzanne J. , Rhodes Erinn T. , Ma Nina S.
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Fragility fractures are increasingly recognized in hospitalized children. Our study aim was to identify risk factors for fracture in children hospitalized in intensive and intermediate care units.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective, case-control study comparing the clinical characteristics of children with fractures (cases) to children without fractures (controls) matched for age, sex, hospital unit, admission quarter and year, ICU length of stay, severity of illness, and resource utilization. Bivariate comparisons and matched multivariable logistic regression modeling were used to determine associations between potential risk factors and fracture.

RESULTS:

Median age at fracture for the 35 patients was 5.0 months (interquartile range 2.0 to 10.0 months) and at a comparable interval for the 70 matched controls was 3.5 months (interquartile range 2.0 to 7.0 months). In bivariate analyses, factors associated with fracture included: primary diagnosis of tracheoesophageal fistula, esophageal atresia and stenosis; diagnosis of kidney disease; and per 5-day increase in median cumulative ICU days at risk. In the final model, a respiratory disease diagnosis (odds ratio 3.9, 95% confidence interval 1.1–13.7) and per 5-day increase in median cumulative ICU days at risk (odds ratio 1.3, 95% confidence interval 1.0–1.6) were significant independent risk factors for fracture.

CONCLUSIONS:

Children prone to fracture in the hospital are young, medically complex patients who require extended periods of intensive level medical care and potentially life-sustaining treatment modalities. The children who would benefit most from fracture reduction efforts are those with respiratory disease and prolonged ICU stays.
Future Noninvasive Ventilation Strategies in Neonates
Authors: Firestone Kimberly S. , Null Donald M. , Stein Howard
Published: June 2017

The use of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) has increased over the past decade. Most NICUs use various forms of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation that is influenced by leaks at the interface. This limits the effectiveness of using a flow trigger for synchronous delivery of each breath and the resultant asynchrony contributes to the failure of NIV. Two novel approaches to NIV are now available. Noninvasive neurally adjusted ventilatory assist uses a neural trigger to detect the electrical activation of the diaphragm. Each breath is then proportionally assisted based on the onset, strength, and duration of this electrical signal. It is therefore leak-independent and overcomes the challenges of flow-triggered ventilation. High-frequency nasal ventilation is an extension of bubble continuous positive airway pressure and delivers small tidal volumes at high frequencies that can be adjusted to provide appropriate noninvasive support. The functionality of both these modalities will be discussed, including the clinical evidence available to support their use with NIV.
Pinna Growth and Development in Relation to Venation in Nephrolepis Species
Authors: FAJUKE Aina Arinola , MAKINDE A. M. , OLOYEDE F.A. , ISA M.O.
Published: June 2017

Growth and development of the pinna in three species N. cordifolia, N. exalta(i), N. exalta(ii) and N. furcans were viewed in the department of botany of Obafemi Awolowo University, IIe-Ife campus. The results showed that all the venation of the pinnae of the species consist of a mid-vein and 2 lateral series of dichotomous vein all of which terminate freely near the lamina margins. Because it seems their venation patterns are similar, this might be one of the reasons for grouping them into one genus called Nephrolepis Schott. The development and growth pattern of N. cordifolia and N. furcans was uniform and consistent, while that of N. exalta gave two forms as the young was represented N. exalta (i) and the matured as N. exalta (ii). The growth patterns showing variations in the mid-rib, fertile and sterile pinnae provided useful specific distinctions.
Amino Acids Sequence Based in Silico Analysis of RuBisCO (Ribulose-1,5 Bisphosphate Carboxylase Oxygenase) Proteins in Some Carthamus L. ssp.
Authors: SEVİNDİK Emre
Published: June 2017

RuBisCO is an important enzyme for plants to photosynthesize and balance carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This study aimed to perform sequence, physicochemical, phylogenetic and 3D (three-dimensional) comparative analyses of RuBisCO proteins in the Carthamus ssp. using various bioinformatics tools. The sequence lengths of the RuBisCO proteins were between 166 and 477 amino acids, with an average length of 411.8 amino acids. Their molecular weights (Mw) ranged from 18711.47 to 52843.09 Da; the most acidic and basic protein sequences were detected in C. tinctorius (pI = 5.99) and in C. tenuis (pI = 6.92), respectively. The extinction coefficients of RuBisCO proteins at 280 nm ranged from 17,670 to 69,830 M-1 cm-1, the instability index (II) values for RuBisCO proteins ranged from 33.31 to 39.39, while the GRAVY values of RuBisCO proteins ranged from -0.313 to -0.250. The most abundant amino acid in the RuBisCO protein was Gly (9.7%), while the least amino acid ratio was Trp (1.6 %). The putative phosphorylation sites of RuBisCO proteins were determined by NetPhos 2.0. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that RuBisCO proteins formed two main clades. A RAMPAGE analysis revealed that 96.3%-97.6% of residues were located in the favoured region of RuBisCO proteins. To predict the three dimensional (3D) structure of the RuBisCO proteins PyMOL was used. The results of the current study provide insights into fundamental characteristic of RuBisCO proteins in Carthamus ssp.