bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining temporal changes in relations between land uses and land use capabilities in south of sanliurfa plains
Authors: Çelik Mehmet Ali , Gülersoy Ali Ekber
Published: November 2018

Today, the Earth’s land pattern can be examined by the detectors on satellite sensors periodically and the variations on these patterns can be detected in a short while. Monitoring of land cover changes and planning these lands effectively are the important issues for economic and ecological sustainability. In this study, the land cover changes of Suruç, Akcakale, Ceylanpinar and Harran plains have been investigated between 1985 and 2016. Accordingly, we utilized Landsat satellite images for three different dates of their summer recordings. Satellite images were classified by the segmentation process and supervised classification through Maximum Likelihood technique. The land use maps obtained from the analysis consist of four classes: dry farming, irrigated farming, grassland and settlement. In addition, accuracy assessment has been implemented on each classified map in order to assess the degree of robustness of our analysis. According to our results, we obtain 85% of overall accuracy where the Kappa value is about 80%. Our results show that significant changes occurred in the land cover of southern plains of Sanliurfa. These changes occurred in the form of transforming dry farming areas to irrigated farming areas in Akcakale and Ceylanpinar whereas irrigated farming were transforming to dry farming in Suruc, during the period of 1985 to 2016. 
Arab Saudi dan Krisis Harga Minyak Tahun 2014-2016 [Saudi Arabia and the Oil Price Crisis of 2014-2016]
Authors: Faisol Wildan
Published: November 2018

This article explains the Saudi Arabian oil crisis of 2014-2016. In 2014, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) had been expected to cut production to stabilize the market  and control the price of oil,but instead of reducing their own production, Saudi Arabia pushed OPEC to let the market control the price of of oil. This raised the question of why Saudi Arabia led the OPEC push to let the price decline. The purpose of this article is to understand the reasons behind Saudi Arabia’s efforts as prices plummeted fron 2014 until 2016. This paper explores Saudi Arabia as the de facto leader of OPEC using geopolitical purposes to influences the rest of OPEC and to weaken their opponents including Iran, Iraq and Russia.
Dari Tionghoa ke Tjina: Telaah Sejarah terhadap Demonisasi Etnis Tionghoa di Indonesia [From Tionghoa to China: A Historical Review of the Demonization of Chinese Ethnicity in Indonesia]
Authors: Kristiono Michael J.
Published: November 2018

This paper attempts to investigate the reasons behind the negative sentiments directed towards Chinese Indonesians from an International Relations (IR) perspective. By tracing back the treatment of the New Order government towards ethnic Chinese, it was found that such demonization initially happened due to two politically motivated reasons. Firstly, as part of de-Soekarnoization done by the New Order, the Chinese were outcast because Chinese identity does not conform to the “Indonesian identity”, which was in essence, the Javanese identity. Secondly, the condition reflected the change in Indonesian foreign policy which drifted apart from People’s Republic of China (PRC) as the latter was suspected to be involved in September 30 Movement. Then, I argue that due to those reasons, coupled by systematic maltreatment from the New Order Government, Chinese Indonesians were constructed as the “others”, that is, as non-Indonesians. Such construct has been deeply embedded such that reconciliation attempts done by the Reformation Era government were not sufficient enough to stop ethnic discrimination towards Chinese Indonesians from happening even until the present.
Effective Apsidal Precession in Oblate Coordinates
Authors: Capistrano Abraao J. S. , Seidel Paola T. Z. , Cabral Luís A.
Published: November 2018

We use oblate coordinates to study its resulting orbit equations. Their related solutions of Einstein's vacuum equations can be written as a linear combination of Legendre polynomials of positive denite integers $l$. Starting from solutions of the zeroth order $l=0$ in a nearly newtonian regime, we obtain a non-trivial formula favoring both retrograde and advanced solutions for the apsidal precession depending on parameters related to the metric coecients, particularly applied to the apsidal precessions of Mercury and asteroids (Icarus and 2 Pallas). As a realization of the equivalence problem in general Relativity, a comparison is made with the resulting perihelion shift produced by Weyl cylindric coordinates and the Schwarzschild solution analyzing how different geometries of space-time influence on solutions in astrophysical phenomena.
Proteomic Analysis of Mouse Brain Subjected to Spaceflight
Authors: Mao Xiao Wen , Sandberg Lawrence B. , Gridley Daila S. , Herrmann Cliff , Zhang Guangyu , Raghavan Ravi , Stodieck Louis S. , Ferguson Virginia L. , Bateman Ted A. , Pecaut Michael J.
Published: November 2018

There is evidence that spaceflight poses acute and late risks on the central nervous system. To explore possible mechanisms, the proteomic changes following spaceflight in mouse brain were characterized. Space Shuttle Atlantis (STS-135) was launched at the Kennedy Space Center on a 13-day mission. Within 3–5 hours after landing, brain tissue was collected to evaluate protein expression profiles using quantitative proteomic analysis. Our results showed that there were 26 proteins that were significantly altered after spaceflight in the grey and/or white matter. While there was no overlap between the white and grey matter in terms of individual proteins, there was overlap in terms of function, synaptic plasticity, vesical activity, protein/organelle transport, and metabolism. Our data demonstrate that exposure to the spaceflight environment induces significant changes in protein expression related to neuronal structure and metabolic function. This might lead to a significant impact on brain structural and functional integrity that could affect the outcome of space missions.
PENGEMBANGAN WIKI KAMPUS SEBAGAI MEDIA PENGETAHUAN KOMUNITAS DI PERPUSTAKAAN PERGURUAN TINGGI
Authors: Prasetyadi Abdurrakhman , Kangko Danang Dwijo , Nugroho D.W. Ari
Published: November 2018

This study aims to: (1) create category of knowledge communities in university library, (2) designing the prototype of an online encyclopedia of knowledge communities in the university library, and (3) testing a prototype of an online encyclopedia of knowledge communities. The method used is the analysis of web content of the communities website at IPB and development protoype using the MediaWiki software. The first results of this study are categories of knowledge created consisting of the main knowledge about the student association, student activity units, other communities, the terms of the campus and the surrounding of the campus. Second, in designing a prototype of Wiki Kampus make a data flow diagrams, system infrastructure, and installation. Furthermore, installation of MediaWiki including by several stages: (1) downloading and extracting the file master MediaWiki on a web server, (2) set-up the master files MediaWiki, (3) determine the format page categorizing and customize the user interface, and (4) set up a user account for students. Third, Wiki Kampus tested by some students of Master of Information Technology for Libraries (MTP) at IPB and the results is function well.

Kajian ini bertujuan untuk: (1) membuat kategori pengetahuan komunitas di perpusatakaan PT, (2) merancang prototipe ensiklopedia daring pengetahuan komunitas di perpustakaan PT, dan (3) melakukan ujicoba prototipe ensiklopedia daring pengetahuan komunitas. Metode yang digunakan yaitu analisis konten web komunitas di IPB dan pengembangan prototipe Wiki Kampus menggunakan perangkat lunak MediaWiki. Hasil dari kajian ini yaitu kategori pengetahuan yang dibuat terdiri dari pengetahuan utama yakni seputar himpunan mahasiswa, unit kegiatan mahasiswa, komunitas lain, istilah-istilah kampus dan lingkungan sekitar kampus. Hasil perancangan prototipe Wiki Kampus terdiri dari pembuatan data flow diagram, perencanaan infrastruktur sistem dan penginstalasian perangkat lunak MediaWiki. Penginstalasian MediaWiki melalui beberapa tahapan di antaranya: (1) mengunduh dan mengekstraksi file master MediaWiki pada server web, (2) melakukan set-up file master MediaWiki, (3) menentukan format page categorizing dan mengkustomisasi tampilan pengguna, serta (4) menyiapkan user account untuk mahasiswa. Ketiga, ujicoba Wiki Kampus dilakukan oleh beberapa mahasiswa program Magister Teknologi Informasi untuk Perpustakaan (MTP) IPB berjalan lancar dan berfungsi dengan baik.
LIBRARY IN HAND AND THE SOCIAL REVIEW AS ADAPTIVE REPRESENTATION OF LIBRARY DEVELOPMENT IDEA
Authors: Yenianti Ifonilla
Published: November 2018

Abstract

The development of technology and information brings a number of indispensable consequences, and it requires a wiser adaptation to apply them in the library to avoid the entailed negative impacts. This article discusses the idea of applying information technology of library in hand for library services. It is based on observations of the benchmarking activities in several countries and review on various literatures. Presentation and analysis are conducted descriptively, with the conclusion that the library should be about to adaptively follow the development of IT by considering the contextual social effects. In this context, the application of library in hand includes SMS gateway, Interactive Learning, Independent Learning, Online Reservation, and Online Library Information Retrieval. Meanwhile, the social effects that arise from this application are seen from three dimensions namely the structural, cultural and interactional ones.

Keywords: library in hand, SMS gateway, Interactive Learning, independent learning, online reservation, social effects

 

Abstrak

Perkembangan teknologi dan informasi membawa sejumlah  konsekuensi yang tidak bisa ditawar tetapi memerlukan adaptasi yang lebih bijaksana untuk menerapkannya di perpustakaan untuk menghindari dampak negatif yang menyertainya. Artikel ini membahas tentang ide menerapkan teknologi informasi tentang library in hand untuk pelayanan perpustakaan.  Penulisan ini didasarkan pada pengamatan dari kegiatan benchmarking dari beberapa negara dan pembacaan terhadap berbagai literatur.  Penyajian dan analisis dilakukan secara deskriptif, dengan kesimpulan bahwa perpustakaan sudah saatnya secara adaptif mengikuti perkembangan TI dengan mempertimbangkan efeks sosial yang menyertainya.   sms gateway, Interactive Learning, Independent learning, Online Reservation, dan  Online Library Information Retrieval.  Efek sosial yang muncul dari penerapan ini dilihat dari tiga dimensi yaitu dimensi struktural, kultural dan interaksional.  

Kata kunci:  Perpustakaan dalam genggaman, sms gateway (system aplikasi mengirim dan menerima sms), belajar mandiri, pemesanan online.
Impact of Anisotropy Induced by Shale Lamination and Natural Fractures on Reservoir Development and Operational Designs
Authors: Gu Ming
Published: November 2018

The laminated nature of shale rocks leads to different mechanical properties parallel and perpendicular to the bedding plane, which is known as transverse isotropy (TI). If natural fractures (NFs) are present, the additional elastic anisotropy is introduced within the bedding plane, making shale an orthorhombic (OB) medium. Most current geophysical log interpretations ignore such shale anisotropies, resulting in erroneous estimates of the elastic moduli, brittleness, and stress gradient, which consequently causes problematic or suboptimal drilling, completion, and hydraulic-fracturing design. The objective of the current study is to investigate the effects of the two shale anisotropies on geomechanical-property characterizations, and, hence, on operational designs.

In this paper, synthetic OB-rock stiffness tensors are built by introducing NF sets in a vertical symmetric-axis (VTI) background. Then, the VTI model, which ignores the NF effect, and the isotropic model, which ignores both anisotropies, are applied to the synthetic OB rock to interpret the stiffness coefficients, elastic moduli, and stresses. The results are compared with the “true” values interpreted from the original OB-rock stiffness tensors. The impacts of the two types of shale anisotropies on shale-rock geomechanical-property characterizations—and, hence, operational designs—are examined. According to the modeling results, the lamination-induced anisotropy is more significant than the NF-induced anisotropy when predicting Young's modulus. Besides, ignoring the two anisotropies can lead to an overestimation of both the minimum-horizontal-stress magnitude and the stress contrast; the overestimation is larger for stiffer zones and less-tectonically-active zones. As a result, ignoring two anisotropies can lead to an overoptimistic design of the mud-weight window, resulting in higher risks of borehole tensile failure and shear failure. Ignoring the two anisotropies will not alter the brittleness-index (BI) trend observed in the OB rock. However, the stress contrast is overestimated, which will lead to shorter stage-spacing design and suboptimal selections of perforation locations. If one is ignoring the anisotropy induced by NFs, the fracture width is underestimated, leading to insufficient proppant size or pumping-amount design and, hence, to suboptimal low fracture conductivity.
Performance-Based Comparison for Hydraulically Fractured Tight and Shale-Gas Reservoirs With and Without Non-Darcy-Flow Effect
Authors: Al-Rbeawi Salam
Published: November 2018

Reservoir performance of hydraulically fractured tight and shale-gas formations is affected by an extensive range of parameters. Non-Darcy flow is one of these parameters, characterized by a significant effect on near-wellbore pressure drop for horizontal wells and near-fracture tips for hydraulic fractures (HFs). Non-Darcy flow develops in porous media when the velocity of reservoir fluid becomes extremely high because of continuous narrowing in the cross-sectional area of flow and the convergence of flow streamlines. As a result, the inertial forces could be considered the major contributor to the total pressure drop required by fluids to move from the outer drainage area toward the wellbore. Pressure drop, caused by non-Darcy flow, is described by the Forchheimer (1901) equation, wherein the deviation from Darcy's law is proportional to the inertial factor (β), which in turn is a function of porous-media characteristics such as permeability and porosity.

This paper investigates the effect of non-Darcy flow, represented by the non-Darcy-flow coefficient (D) and/or the rate-dependent skin factor (DQsc), on pressure profiles, flow regimes, and productivity indices (PIs) of multiple HFs that propagate in tight and shale-gas reservoirs. This paper also introduces a new simplified technique for estimating both DQsc and D by knowing bottomhole flowing pressure and cumulative production at any time. For this purpose, a multilinear-flow-regime model was generated and modified for the existence of non-Darcy flow. A comparison for reservoir performance with and without non-Darcy flow was conducted for different reservoir configurations, including the reservoir-drainage area (2xe and 2ye), fracture conductivities, fracture dimensions, and fracture-propagation ratios. A set of plots has been developed for estimating the rate-dependent skin factor depending on production time with respect to cumulative PI.

The outcomes of this study can be summarized as understanding the conditions at which non-Darcy flow could have considerable effects on reservoir performance; estimating the deviation in PI caused by the existence of non-Darcy flow from the cases where Darcy flow is the dominant; and introducing a new technique to estimate DQsc and D. The most interesting points in this study are the ability to estimate these two parameters without the need for experimental studies or use of an empirical model; that all flow regimes expected to develop in the entire life of reservoirs are not affected by non-Darcy flow, unlike pressure behaviors and PI; and that the PI is constant for high values of DQsc at early-time production and sharply declines at later production time.
Row‐applied Iron Chelate for Correcting Iron Deficiency Chlorosis in Dry Bean
Authors: Hergert Gary W. , Nielsen Rex A. , Schild James A. , Hawley Robert L. , Darapuneni Murali K.
Published: November 2018

Row‐applied Fe chelate at 1.8 kg−1 for dry edible bean increased yields on chlorosis‐prone soils.

Visual chlorosis ratings near flowering were well correlated with final yield.

Yield responses of 10% above the check were economical at current and historic dry bean prices.

Chlorosis severity mapping of fields would improve application to the areas most likely to respond to Fe ethylene diamine‐N, N’‐bis (2‐hydroxyphenylacetic acid application.

Iron‐deficiency chlorosis (IDC) reduces the yield of dry edible bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) grown on high‐pH calcareous soils. The objective of this research was to compare the effectiveness of row‐applied SoyGreen Fe ethylene diamine‐N, N’‐bis (2‐hydroxyphenylacetic acid (FeEDDHA)) on reducing IDC and increasing dry bean yield planted in 56‐cm rows. Two commonly grown varieties of Great Northern and Pinto dry bean were grown in a randomized complete block design during 4 yr with four levels of FeEDDHA (0–2.24 kg ha−1). Visual chlorosis ratings showed significant differences in 3 of 4 yr and higher FeEDDHA rates improved chlorosis scores. Yields were increased in 2011 and 2014 but not on the low IDC severity site in 2012 (2013 plots were lost to hail). Relative yields for 2011 and 2014 versus the chlorosis score showed significant increasing yield as chlorosis severity decreased. The relative yield response to FeEDDHA averaged across different varieties and market classes was about 10% and yield was maximized near 1.8 kg ha−1 FeEDDHA. For the Fe‐responsive years, the check yield was 3096 kg ha−1 of Great Northern beans and 3125 kg ha−1 for Pinto beans, which translates to an additional 310 kg ha−1 of beans. With current and historic bean prices, the yield increase adds over $200 ha−1 at a cost of near $40 ha−1, more than paying for the fertilizer cost.
Kentucky Bluegrass Growth and Quality as Affected by Salt Type and Concentration
Authors: Yang Liqi , Zhang Qi
Published: November 2018

Core Ideas

Salinity adversely affected Kentucky bluegrass growth and performance.

Chloride salts were more detrimental to Kentucky bluegrass than sulfate salts when applied at the same electrical conductivity.

Kenblue had a higher growth rate than Moonlight’under the saline condition at the seedling stage; however, Moonlight outperformed Kenblue at the vegetative growth stage.

The growth and functionality of turfgrasses are often challenged by high soil salinity. Previous research mainly focused on plant responses to Cl− salt–induced saline conditions (e.g., NaCl). However, in some regions, including California and North Dakota, in salt‐affected soils the predominant cation is Mg2+ and the predominant anion is SO42−. The responses of turfgrass species to such salinity conditions have not been well documented. In this research, the responses of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) cultivars Kenblue and Moonlight at the seedling growth and the vegetative growth stages to different salt type (NaCl, Na2SO4, MgCl2, and MgSO4) and concentration (5–20 dS m−1) were investigated. Results showed that shoot dry weight (SDW), root dry weight (RDW), root length (RL), and visual quality of the two turf cultivars decreased with increasing salt concentration at both growth stages. Specific root length increased to 235.7% of the control at the seedling growth stage but decreased to 71.6% of the control at the same salt concentration at the vegetative growth stage. Under the saline condition, Kenblue showed higher SDW (52.1%), RDW (74.4%), and RL (20.6%) than Moonlight at the seedling growth stage; however, Moonlight performed better than Kenblue at the vegetative growth stage. The two turf cultivars were more tolerant to Na2SO4 and MgSO4 stress than to NaCl and MgCl2 stress. Our research indicates that turfgrass managers need to consider plant material (cultivar and growth stage), salt type, and salt concentration to develop a successful salinity management plan.
Characteristics of the treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis in patients of the older age group
Authors: Sapova K. I. , Ryazantsev S. V.
Published: November 2018

Recent studies show that perennial allergic rhinitis is prevalent among older people, but the management of this disease is underestimated and not determined. This article describes the persistent allergic rhinitis in patients of the older age group and identifies the primary goals of treatment based on the age-related physiological factors, concomitant conditions and the use of other drugs. Special attention is paid to the various options for the drug therapy in elderly patients over the age of 60 years. The second-generation antihistamines and intranasal glucocorticosteroids also have primacy over other drugs, when supervising older patients. A randomized open multicenter clinical study showed that Momate Rhino Advance (a combination of intranasal antihistamines (azelastine) and intranasal glucocorticosteroids (mometasone) for the treatment of allergic rhinitis) made by Indian Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. is effective and safe in patients aged 60 years and older, who are diagnosed with the above disease.
Evaluation of paediatric habilitation outcomes following cochlear implantation
Authors: Anosova L. V. , Chutko L. S. , Levina E. A. , Kuzovkov V. E. , Levin S. V.
Published: November 2018

The delay in mental development is common in children. In combination with deafblood are one of the five most common causes of developmental abnormalities. Both parameters have a pronounced effect on the development of the child. Features of perception of sound, its carrying out, brain work form speech in children. It was revealed that audio scoring systems are not enough for hearing control, it is necessary to allocate children with risk factors and their combination. Cochlear implantation gives a significant influence on the development of higher nervous activity through perestroika, especially successful in sensitive periods.
The current course of acute respiratory infections and the possibility of pathogenetic therapy.
Authors: Krutikhina S. B. , Yablokova E. A.
Published: November 2018

Acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) are leading in the structure of the general morbidity of the population. To date, more than 200 viruses that affect the respiratory tract and ENT organs are known [1]. The reservoir of ARVI pathogens is only human, the highest incidence is observed in the cold season [8]. It is also possible to infect several ARVI pathogens together, which is accompanied by a severe course of the disease and the addition of bacterial complications [6, 7]. To date, prevention and treatment of ARVI, both in adults and children, is one of the important tasks facing the medical community [1, 2]. The etiotropic therapy of most ARVI has not been developed, and the use of interferon preparations and interferon synthesis inducers has not proved their clinical efficacy [11]. As an alternative, bioregulatory agents that have proven their safety and clinical efficacy can be used [12]. The article presents numerous studies of clinical efficacy and safety of the bioregulatory drug Engystol in different age groups.
The possibility of using bacteriophages in otolaryngology
Authors: Artemyeva E. S. , Budkovaya M. A. , Ryazantsev S. V.
Published: November 2018

The treatment of infectious diseases in the context of the steady increase in the number of microorganisms that are resistant to antibiotics is one of the most acute problems in otorhinolaryngology. This explains the raise interest in a fundamentally new rational treatment strategy of infections both in Russia and around the world - the use of bacteriophages. These drugs have proven efficacy against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, do not cause toxic and allergic reactions, and have no contraindications to use.
Hearing loss in acute respiratory infections
Authors: Zaitseva O. V.
Published: November 2018

Upper airway inflammatory diseases account for about 90% of all infectious diseases and are the most common causes of patients’ visits to the otorhinolaryngologists, pediatricians and general practitioners. Acute otitis media and rhinosinusitis are considered the most common complications of acute respiratory infections. Auditory disorders often occur during respiratory infections, which may be directly caused by Eustachian tube dysfunction, acute otitis media and acute sensorineural hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a type of diminished hearing (up to loss), which affects any of the parts of the soundperceiving apparatus of the auditory analyser, ranging from the neuroepithelial structures of the inner ear to the cortical representation in the temporal lobe of the cerebral cortex. It is extremely important to timely detect sensorineural hearing loss and immediately start therapeutic measures, especially in children, since de-socialization occurs much faster in this age group.
Herpesvirus infection in children with high grade sensoneural hearing loss
Authors: Preobrazhenskaya Y. S. , Drozdova M. V.
Published: November 2018

Clinical and audiological investigation of 100 children with indications for cochlear implantation was made. Indirect signs of intrauterine infection were identified, as well as the presence of predisposing factors to the development of exudative otitis media. During the investigation frequency of exudative otitis media (up to 21%) in children with high grade sensoneural hearing loss was made. The severity of lymphoproliferative syndrome and it’s combination with herpesvirus infection markers (Cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus). It was found out, that in group of patients with combination of high grade sensoneural hearing loss and exudative otitis media lymphoproliferative syndrome in more, than 77% cases had herpesvirus ethiology and significantly exceed the same data in group of patients with isolated hearing loss.
A modern approach to the combination treatment of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Karpischenko S. A. , Lavrenova G. V. , Muratova E. I.
Published: November 2018

Allergic rhinitis is a common disease that significantly worsens the patient’s quality of life. In some cases, the disease can be life threatening. Severe attacks of bronchial obstruction may occur in patients with allergic rhinitis. The widespread prevalence of allergic rhinitis in adults and children, consistent increase in disease incidence constitutes a great medical and social issue. Treatment for allergic rhinitis should be aimed at reaching increased remission duration, preventing the exacerbation of the disease and educating patients to maintain control over the symptoms of the disease. A challenge that otolaryngologists and allergists face is to restore nasal breathing in patients with allergic rhinitis. The updated approach to the challenge is to suggest treatment that takes into account the pathophysiological mechanisms that occur not only in the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, but throughout the body, in particular, in the intestine.
Etiopathogenic foundations of sensorineural hearing loss treatment
Authors: Preobrazhenskaya Y. S.
Published: November 2018

Hearing loss is socially significant problem. About 30% of all cases are due to sensorineural hearing loss. Taking into consideration its polyethiologic nature treatment tactics should be complex. Drugs, that are able to reduce neuropathy development, should be an integral part of treatment. Most of neurotropic vitamins improve metabolic and enhance the regenerative processes in neuroepithelium. For this purpose vitamins B1, B6 and B12 are ordinary used, for many years they are included in the complex treatment of diseases of the peripheral nervous system. One of the combined medicinal vitamins is neuromultivitis.
Antioxidant Components of Brassica Vegetables Including Turnip and the Influence of Processing and Storage on their Anti-oxidative Properties
Authors: Gharehbeglou Pouria , Jafari Seid Mahdi
Published: November 2018

Brassica vegetables, particularly turnip, contain many natural antioxidants. This
review focuses on antioxidant components and the influence of different processing and storage
conditions on antioxidant activities of some Brassica vegetables including turnip. Long
storage times had an adverse effect on antioxidant value of turnip. Also, the activity of antioxidants
in cruciferous vegetables could be influenced by antioxidant breakdown and leaching
during cooking. Heat treatment has a major impact on the antioxidant activity of Brassica
vegetables and it has been perceived minor antioxidant ability in processed vegetables compared
with uncooked samples. Food processing operations in terms of blanching, canning,
sterilizing and freezing, in addition to cooking methods perhaps can have a major influence on
the yield, chemical structure and bioavailability of antioxidants in Brassica family. Cooking
methods such as steaming and microwaving are proper methods for a short time. Consumption
of raw or slightly blanched turnip is an appropriate way to maximize its health benefits.
Quantitative Analysis of Root Canal System and Apical Part with Vertucci Type II Configuration Following Preparation with Three Different Preparation Systems: A Micro-computed Tomography Study
Authors: Keleş Ali , Keskin Cangül
Published: November 2018

Objective:

Isthmuses are narrow communications between root canals, and form as the result of the merging of the two root canals widening in a buccolingual direction. This widening causes the high ovality of isthmuses. The shaping and cleaning of all root canal systems are regarded as one of the major difficulties in long-oval shaped root canals. This study aims to make quantitative analysis of Vertucci type II root canal systems following preparation with Self- Adjusting file (SAF), Reciproc or Revo-S.

Methods:

Major diameter and roundness values were measured at the level 1.2 mm from apical foramen before and after preparation. A ‘post-preparation node’ point was described when the minimum minor diameter value was smaller than major diameter of apical 1.2 mm. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA, Tukey and Chi-square tests.

Results:

Preparation resulted in a significant increase in the major diameter values regardless of the instrumentation (p = 0.000). Preparation with Reciproc led to the significant increase in roundness values (p = 0.000), whereas no significant difference was detected in specimens prepared with SAF (p = 0.21) and Revo-S (p = 0.15).

Conclusion:

Root canal preparation with SAF, Reciproc and Revo-S led to a significant increase in the major diameter of apical 1.2 mm and resulted in high frequencies of the post-preparation node.
The Effect of Specimen Shape on the Mechanical Properties of Sisal Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Okeola Abass Abayomi , Abuodha Silvester Ochieng , Mwero John
Published: November 2018

Introduction:

Fiber reinforced concrete is becoming popular in improving the quasi-brittle failure of concrete. Natural fibers such as sisal holds great promise in this regard. It has amazing tensile strength and is renewable. This paper presents the result of an investigation carried out on the effect of sisal fiber on the compressive strength, Split tensile strength, failure mode and Poisson ratio of Sisal Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (SFRC).

Methods:

A mix proportion of 1:1.92:3.68 and w/c ratio of 0.47 for a target compressive strength of 35 MPa was used. Sisal fiber was added at percentages of 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% by weight of cement. The effect of specimen shape on the compressive strength of sisal fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) was reported. The compressive strength of cube (150mm X 150mm) and cylinder (150mm diameter and 300mm height) specimen was determined at 7 and 28 days, while Split tensile strength and Poisson ratio were obtained using cylindrical specimen (150mm diameter and 300mm height).

Results and Conclusion:

The result shows that the addition of sisal fiber slightly reduces the compressive strength of concrete, increases its split tensile strength up to 47.167% of the control specimen, arrests crack propagation and reduces its Poisson ratio. The correlation between the compressive strength of cylindrical and cube specimen was established with a ratio ranging between 0.82 - 0.73. The difference in the compressive strength was found to increase with rise in the percentages of sisal fiber. Based on the ratio and mechanical properties, 1.0% sisal fiber content was recommended as the optimum for reinforcing concrete.
Enzymatic Activity of Endophytic Bacterial Isolates from Selected Mangrove Plants in Kenya
Authors: Ntabo Regina M. , Nyamache Anthony Kebira , Lwande Wilber , Kabii James , Nonoh James
Published: November 2018

Introduction:

Microorganisms are a preferred source of enzyme production due to their high production capability and low cost of production. Bacterial endophytes occupy unexplored sites hence they represent a new source of enzymes with diverse applications. Mangrove plants in Kenya have traditionally been used as medicinal plants due to their bioactive metabolites. However the enzymatic activity of mangrove plants associated endophytes has not been studied.

Aims & Objectives:

The study is aimed at bioprospecting for enzymes with potential biotechnological applications from mangrove ecosystems.

Methods & Materials:

Forty-two bacterial isolates were cultured and isolated from the leaves and roots of six mangrove plants sampled from Mida Creek and Gazi Bay in the coastal region of Kenya. The isolates were screened for pectinases, chitinases, cellulases, proteases, and amylases. The isolates were identified based on morphology and 16S rRNA gene sequences analysis.

Results:

The study showed bacterial isolates had enzymatic activity as follows; pectinases activity (69% of the isolates), Proteases (95% of the isolates), amylases activity (88% of the isolates), cellulases and chitinases (92% of the isolates each). Bacterial endophytes from leaves showed a higher enzymatic index of cellulases suggesting a potential role in degrading cellulose in the leaves of plants. The enzymes amylases and proteases were mostly exhibited by endophytes in roots suggesting a potential role in metabolizing sugar and amino acids in the roots. Isolates from the mangrove plantSonneratia albashowed highest enzymatic indices. The study also observed that isolates from mangrove plants sampled from Gazi bay had high means of enzymatic indices. Molecular identification showed the isolates were closely related toBacillus, Streptomyces, Myroides, andStaphylococcusspecies. Their respective enzymatic activities have been provided in this study.

Conclusion:

The study showed that Kenyan Mangrove plant-associated bacterial endophytes provide a good reservoir of enzymes with potential industrial applications.
The Pattern, Presentation and Risk Factors of Ocular Trauma Among Patients Treated at Hawassa University, Referral Hospital
Authors: Alem Kindie Desta , Weldegiorgis Samson Tesfaye , Agaje Bekalu Getahun , Arega Demoze Delelegn
Published: November 2018

Background:

Ocular trauma is a significant public health problem which may lead to permanent visual impairment. Being preventable, the visual impairment can occur at any age in either sex and has significant socioeconomic burden especially in developing countries.

Objective:

To assess the pattern, presentation and risk factors of ocular trauma in patients treated at Hawassa University, Referral Hospital, South Ethiopia

Methods:

The study was conducted from August 01, 2014 to July 31, 2015, and all patients who visited Hawassa University, Referral Hospital for ocular trauma were included in the study. Data entry and analysis was done using SPSS version 20 and the descriptive and analytic statistics were carried out.

Results:

A total of 335 patients were included into the study. Ocular trauma was observed mostly in children (65.67%) and rural dwellers (76.12%). Assault trauma and surgery, secondary to trauma, were associated with open globe injury (P = 0.021, AOR = 43.17 and P = 0.006, AOR = 25.67, respectively). The corneal tear was the most frequently observed finding (59.70%). Most of the patients (>90%) presented after 6 hours from time of ocular trauma and the treatment was commenced also after 6 hours in >95% of them. Among all patients included in the study, 59.71% of them were with visual acuity of <3/60 at presentation.

Conclusion:

Ocular trauma was high in males, children, rural dwellers and low income families and most of the patients (>90%) presented after 6 hours from time of ocular trauma.
Combined User and Antenna Selection in Massive MIMO Using Precoding Technique
Authors: Sheikh Tasher Ali , Bora Joyatri , Hussain Md. Anwar
Published: November 2018

Background and Objectives:

We propose here joint semi-orthogonal user selection and antenna
selection algorithm based on precoding scheme.

Methods:

The focus of this proposed algorithm is to increase the system sumrate and decrease the
complexity. We select and schedule users from a large number of users based on semi-orthogonality
condition among them. Here, we select only the maximum channel gain antennas to maximize the
system sumrate. Subsequently, the user selection and antenna selection have been scheduled in an
adequate manner in order to obtain maximum system sumrate. We calculate the system sumrate for
two scenarios: firstly, by considering the interference and secondly without considering the interference.
We achieve maximum system sumrate at MMSE and lowest at without precoding while considering
the interference. However, when we do not consider the interference we obtain lowest sumrate
at MMSE and maximum at without precoding.

Results and Conclusion:

Here, we apply the precoding scheme to increase the system sumrate and
we obtain approximately 20% to 35% higher system sumrate compared to without precoding, when
interference is considered. Thus, we achieve higher sumrate in our proposed algorithms compared to
other existing work.
Structure-Activity Relationship of Dicoumarol Derivatives as anti- Staphylococcus aureus (Staph Infection) Agents
Authors: Rasheed Nidaa , Galant Natalie J. , Csizmadia Imre G.
Published: November 2018

Introduction: Staph infection, caused by a bacterium known as Staphylococcus aureus,
results in a range of diseases from cellulitis to meningitis. Dicoumarol compounds are now emerging
as new anti-Staph infection agents as they possess a different chemical structure than compounds
used in previous treatments, in order to combat antibiotic-resistant strains. However, it is
unclear how such chemical modulations to the dicoumarol backbone structure achieve higher drug
performance.

Methods:

The following review analyzed various quantitative structure-activity relationship
(QSAR) studies on dicoumarol compounds and compared them against the corresponding minimum
inhibitory concentration and binding affinity values.

Results:

Compared to the antimicrobial activity, the dicoumarol derivatives with electron withdrawing
substituents, CL, NO2, and CF3 showed an inverse correlation; whereas, the opposite was
observed with electron donating compounds such as OH, OMe, and amine groups. Based on the
interactions of dicoumarol at the active site, an “aromatic donor-acceptor” relationship was proposed
as the method of action for this drug. Furthermore, substituent positioning on the benzene
ring was found to exert a greater effect on the binding affinity, speculating that the mechanism of
action is two characteristics based, needing, both, the proper aromatic pi-pi interaction for stabilization
and direct binding to the OH group in the Tyrosine residue, affected by the steric hindrance.

Conclusion:

This foundational review can enhance productivity sought by the pharmaceutical
agency to use combinational chemistry to increase the efficiency to discover new hits in the synthesis
of dicoumarol drugs against Staph infection.
Efficient Catalytic Upgrade of Fructose to Alkyl Levulinates with Phenylpyridine- phosphotungstate Solid Hybrids
Authors: Fang Chengjiang , Li Yan , Yu Zhaozhuo , Li Hu , Yang Song
Published: November 2018

Biomass, as the most abundant and renewable organic carbon source, can be upgraded into
various value-added platform molecules. To implement more sustainable and economic catalytic biomass
valorization, reusable heterogeneous catalysts would be one of the preferable choices. In this
work, a series of phosphotungstic acid-based solid hybrids were produced by assembly of phosphotungstic
acid with different pyridines using a facile solvothermal method. The obtained 3-
phenylpyridine-phosphotungstate hybrid displayed superior catalytic performance in the upgrade of
fructose to methyl levulinate with 71.2% yield and 83.2% fructose conversion at 140 ºC for 8 h in
methanol, a bio-based and environmentally friendly solvent, which was probably due to its relatively
large pore size and high hydrophobicity. This low-cost and eco-friendly catalytic process could be
simply operated in a single pot without cumbersome separation steps. In addition, the 3-
phenylpyridine-phosphotungstate catalyst was able to be reused for four times with little deactivation.
Superabsorbent polymers to seal and heal cracks in cementitious materials
Authors: Snoeck Didier
Published: November 2018

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are promising admixtures to improve properties in cementitious materials. Not only useful to mitigate autogenous shrinkage and to increase the freeze-thaw resistance, SAP particles may enhance self-sealing and self-healing in cementitious materials. The self-sealing leads to a regain in water tightness and promoted autogenous healing may prove to be useful to limit repair works caused by concrete cracking. By providing sufficient building blocks for healing, limiting the crack width by means of synthetic microfibers and inducing water by means of SAPs, a smart cementitious material is obtained. This material can be an excellent material to use in future building applications such as tunnel works and ground-retaining structures. This paper gives an overview of the current status of the research on SAPs in cementitious materials to obtain sealing and healing.
Expanding Criminal Responsibility in Transnational and International Organised Crime
Authors: Van der Wilt Harmen
Published: November 2018

In international criminal law theory, a conceptual divide is made between international crimes stricto sensu (genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, aggression) and transnational organised crime. This differentiation sustains the direct, respectively indirect enforcement mechanism: the so called ‘core crimes’ belong to the subject matter jurisdiction of international criminal tribunals and the International Criminal Court, whereas national jurisdictions aim to counter transnational crimes, by concluding ‘suppression conventions’ and seeking international cooperation on the basis of the aut dedere, aut judicare principle. Nevertheless, the division is questioned for being too rigid and simplistic, as the boundaries between the categories are increasingly blurred. On the one hand, political rebel groups and organised crime often unite to challenge the power monopoly of the state, while corrupt governments and private business conspire to exploit the local population (by pillage, deportation from their lands or pollution of the environment). On the other hand, there is an ongoing debate, triggered by the ICC Kenya Decision of March 2010, whether the commission of crimes against humanity is the ‘privilege’ of states and state-like groups, or whether the category should be expanded to cover larger organisations that are capable of committing such atrocities. In other words, there is a proliferation of state and non-state actors that engage in both ‘classic’ international crimes (war crimes, crimes against humanity) and transnational crime. These developments have fuelled the plea for supranational law enforcement in respect of transnational (organised) crime, exceeding the realm of inter-state cooperation on a horizontal basis. This essay will pay a modest contribution to this discussion by arguing that the quest for more effective law enforcement is bedeviled by the perplexity of fitting new patterns of crime and new perpetrators of international crimes into the classic mould of international criminal law. These two aspects are obviously intimately related and should not be considered in isolation. Any initiative to invigorate international criminal law enforcement - by for instance establishing new (international or regional) courts or by expanding the subject matter jurisdiction of existing courts – should therefore pay attention to both the elements of crimes and the modes of criminal liability.
Assessing U.S. Targeted Killings Under An International Human Rights Law Framework
Authors: Ramsden Michael
Published: November 2018

The US practice of targeted killings provokes difficult questions concerning the appropriate legal framework and the standards that govern such strikes. This article will argue that, in certain cases, it is necessary to examine the legality of targeted killings under international human rights law (IHRL). An explicit IHRL justification for targeted killings is important and, at present, often ignored by the US. IHRL requires any use of lethal force to be proportionate to the legitimate aim of safeguarding life and a necessary measure with no other reasonable means available to address the threat. It is possible, following a survey of human rights decision-makers, that targeted killings in exceptional circumstances are justifiable under IHRL. It is also incumbent on the US to pass domestic legislation that provides a legal basis for strikes disconnected to September 11, and also the provision of administrative and judicial review in order to provide a post-hoc check on targeted killing decisions.
The Definition of Trafficking in Adult Persons for Various Forms of Exploitation and the Issue of Consent: A Framework Approach that Respects Peculiarities
Authors: Scarpa Silvia
Published: November 2018

The article discusses the problems determined by the interpretation of the definition of trafficking in adult persons contained in Article 3(a) of the UN Trafficking Protocol as including the element of the improper means and vitiated consent. In particular, it examines whether consent is an issue in the definitional frameworks related to the forms of exploitation associated with trafficking and formulates a recommendation to take eventual definitional conflicts into consideration.