bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Metode Pembelajaran Renang Terhadap Kondisi Fisik Pada Anak Usia 8 Tahun
Authors: Sartono Sartono , Adityatama Firman
Published: September 2019

Renang merupakan situasi di mana perenang harus mengapung pada air. Seorang anak dapat menguasai renang jika dapat menikmati aktivitas olahraganya. Aktivitas olahraga menggunakan aktivitas akuatik pada anak dapat membantu perkembangan konsep diri untuk meningkatkan adaptif perilaku anak. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menyelidiki pengaruh metode pembelajaran renang terhadap kondisi fisik pada anak usia 8 tahun. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode eksperimen. Populasi adalah anak usia 8 tahun yang berjumlah 30 anak, dengan teknik pengambilan sampel adalah sampling jenuh. Teknik pengumpulan antara lain tes kondisi fisik yang terdiri dari tes berjalan selama 6 menit, tes keseimbangan, tes thrust, tes standing broad jump, tes kekuatan pegangan, tes kekuatan otot, tes kecepatan, dan tes fleksibilitas. Teknik analisis data menggunakan uji t pada taraf signifikansi 5%, untuk memenuhi asumsi hasil penelitian dilakukan  uji  persyaratan  analisis  yaitu  dengan  uji  normalitas,  uji  perbedaan  dan persentase peningkatan. Penelitian ini menghasilkan simpulan, yaitu ada pengaruh yang signifikan antara metode pembelajaran renang terhadap kondisi fisik pada anak usia 8 tahun.   Hal   ini   dibuktikan   dari   hasil   penghitungan   tes   akhir   kelompok   metode pembelajaran renang yaitu thitung = 161,3268 lebih besar dari pada ttabel  = 2,045 dengan taraf signifikasi 5%.
Anterior Loop of the Mental Nerve- Unlooping its Importance in Dentistry
Authors: Issrani Rakhi , Prabhu Namdeo , Srinivasan Arunpriya , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: September 2019

In any surgical procedure, proper consideration to anatomical structures along with their precise position is of utmost importance. One such anatomical region in anterior mandible is anterior loop of mental nerve. The dental procedure carried out in anterior mandible can lead to neurosensory disturbances if this loop is injured. The presence of anterior loop have been made using conventional imaging modalities like panoramic and periapical radiography, however, limitations of two-dimensional imaging results in either over- or underestimation of the actual size making its use restricted. Cone Beam Computed Tomography is a gold standard threedimensional imaging modality that allows generating multi-planar slices of an area of interest; its accuracy for analysis and linear measurements of craniofacial structures have been confirmed by several studies. This paper highlights the role of accurate and thorough assessment of the inter-foraminal region and anterior loop of the mental nerve prior to any surgical procedure especially in anterior mandible to avert any neurological complications.

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.18(4) 2019 p.689-695
Okra Infusion Water Improving Stress Oxidative and Inflammatory Markers on Hyperglycemic Rats
Authors: Tyagita N , Utami KP , Zulkarnain FH , Rossandini SM , Pertiwi NP , Rifki MA , Safitri AH
Published: September 2019

Objective: Okra has been known for its properties in improving diabetes markers. Most study used okra extract instead of its infusion water. Okra infusion water (OIW) contains polysaccharide and viscous fiber that delay gastric emptying, and help controlling glucose and HbA1C level. As the glucose low level, so does the inflammation and oxidative stress on hyperglycemic rats. This study aims to investigate the effect of OIW in improving glucose level, HbA1C, SOD and CRP levels.

Materials and methods: Posttest only control group design was applied to this experimental study using 15 male wistar rats divided randomly into 3 groups: Control, Streptozotocine (STZ), Streptozotocine+okra (OKRA). STZ, and OKRA groups induced with 65 mg/kg BW Streptozotocine and 110 mg/kg BW Nicotinamide on day 8. After the desirable glucose level achieved, OKRA were given 3.6 ml OIW on day 12-28. Data were analyzed using ANOVA in each variable.

Results: Fasting and Postprandial Glucose level of OKRA (137,40±3,57 mg/dL and 154.58±2.71 mg/dL), STZ (251,77±2,30 mg/dL and 270.18±3.03 mg/dL); HbA1C level of OKRA (7.93±0.25), STZ (21.29±0.65); SOD level of OKRA (55.292±3.77%), STZ (16.472±5.298%); CRP level of OKRA (1,540±0,059 mg/dL), STZ (2,230±0,093 mg/dL)

Conclusions: OIW able to improve glucose, HbA1C, SOD, and CRP level on hyperglycemic rats.

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.18(4) 2019 p.748-752
Psychiatric morbidity among the patients with acne Vulgaris in a tertiary care Hospital
Authors: Ahmed Fahmida , Husain Anwar , Begum Meherunnessa , Alam Mohd Nurul , Ibrahim Muhammad Ayaaz
Published: September 2019

Background: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder which has a high prevalence among adolescence and young adults. Although acne does not cause direct physical impairment, it can produce a significant psychosocial burden. As the face is almost always the site of involvement of acne, its presence can alter one’s perception of body image. Increased levels of anxiety, anger, depression, and frustration are also observed in patients with acne. Acne affects social, vocational, and academic performance of teenagers & young adult.

Objective: To identify socio-demographic profile and to evaluate the psychiatric morbidity in patients with acne vulgaris in a tertiary care hospital.

Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted from June 2017 to December 2017 among the patients of acne vulgaris attending outpatient department of Dermatology in Ibn Sina Medical College Hospital, Dhaka. Purposive sampling technique was used. The sample size of the study was 181. Data were collected by using semi structured socio-demographic questionnaire and the SRQ to screen psychiatric symptoms. The Self Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ), is a psychiatric case finding instrument, was developed by World Health Organization (WHO) to screen for psychiatric disturbance especially among developing countries. The data obtained was collected, tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), for windows version 20.

Results: Study was conducted on 181patients comprising 135(74.6%) were female & 46(25.4%) were male. Age group between 16 to 22 years carried maximum incidence 100(55.2%). Among the patients Psychiatric morbidity was found in86(48%) of the study population. Psychiatric morbidity was found more in young and females patients. Among the types of psychiatric morbidity Anxiety disorders were 57(66.3%) & Major Depressive Disorder(MDD) was 29(33.7%).Anxiety disorders were included social phobia (26.7%), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (18.6%), panic disorder (14%) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)(7%).

Conclusion: Patients with acne vulgaris in whom psychiatric morbidity is present, should be routinely evaluated and their psychiatric morbidity need to be treated adequately for maximize their health.

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.18(4) 2019 p.773-778
Susceptibility of Specific HLA DRB1*15 AlleleAmong Chronic Hepatitis B Infected Bangladeshi Patients
Authors: Akhter Rokshana , Afzalunnessa - , Tabassum Shahina , Hossen Murad
Published: September 2019

Background: The outcome of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection may be influenced by host factors like Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA).The expression of HLA genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) may reflect the molecular mechanism underlying different HBV infection outcomes.

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to explore whether HLA DRB1*15 allele confer susceptibility to chronic hepatitis B infected Bangladeshi patients.

Method: This cross sectional study was carried out in the Department of Virology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) during July 2012 to June 2013 for a period of one year.Evaluation of HLA DRB1*15 allele distribution among 30 chronic hepatitis B infected (HBV) Bangladeshi patients compared them with 30 healthy individuals.HLA DRB1*15 allele distribution was detected by conventional PCR followed by agarose gel electrophoresis, using commercial low-resolution DRB1*15 allele polymerase chain reaction sequence specific priming kit.

Result: A total of 30 chronic hepatitis B infected (HBV) Bangladeshi patients were evaluated together with 30 healthy controls. The study revealed a significant increase of DRB1*15 allele (46.7% vs 20%; RR= 3.5; X2 = 7.2; P<0.05) compared to healthy controls. This is the first report on HLA DRB1*15 allele associations among chronic hepatitis B (HBV) infected Bangladeshi patients.

Conclusion: The present study reveals that HLA DRB1*15 allele was more frequent in chronic hepatitis B infected Bangladeshi patients compared to healthy individuals. Thus, HLA DRB1*15 allele of HLA class II molecules significantly affect the outcome of hepatitis B infection.

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.18(4) 2019 p.783-788
Patients’ Knowledge on Rheumatoid Arthritis presenting with Arthralgia in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital, Pakistan
Authors: Soomro Munawar Hussain , Magsi Mansoor , Soomro Muhammad Aslam , Akram Muhammad , Lahmar Oussama
Published: September 2019

Objectives: The main aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge about rheumatoid arthritis disease among patients presenting with arthralgia in a tertiary care teaching hospital, Pakistan.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study during the period of September 2015 - March 2016 in the Medical Out-Patient Department, Shaheed Mohtarma Benzir Bhutto Medical University Hospital, a tertiary care teaching hospital in Larkana, Pakistan. Patients above 40 years of age of either gender were included in the study. A non-probability purposive sampling technique was employed to include the participants in the study. A pre-designed questionnaire with open and close ended questions was used. The questionnaire in English language was also translated in local language to facilitate the participants. All the statistical analysis was conducted using Stata statistical software 14.

Results: A total number of 251 participants completed the questionnaires. 42 (56.6%) were from rural settings, while 233 (92.8%) were females. The overall mean age was 59 ± 8.69 years. There were 139 (55.4%) of the participants were ≥ 60 years of age. The average BMI was 23.1 ± 4.3. Moreover, 144 (57.4%) participants were found noneducated. The duration of the disease was less than 10 years in 154 (61.4%) of the participants. While, 157 (62.5%) participants were not knowing about factors which contribute to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis. We observed that, on the basis of responses to the relevant questions, only 4 (1.6%) participants were considered fully aware.

Conclusion: We observed lack of knowledge in majority of the participants presenting with arthralgia. The public awareness and education through different vertical programs as well as through social media in the country which can play very important role.

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.18(4) 2019 p.808-813
Custom made ocular prosthesis for acquired eye defect:Adefinitive option of rehabilitation
Authors: Farook Taseef Hasan , Rahman Ahmed Mushfiqur , Islam Nizami Md Minhaz Ul , Amin Mehedi , Jamayet Nafij Bin , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: September 2019

Objective:This case report describes the rehabilitation process of a case of acquired eye defect with patient specific or custom made ocular prosthesis for a patient who had her left eye surgically enucleated as a treatment step for retinoblastoma.

Method: After primary evaluations, an intraorbital impression was taken while reproducing natural eye movements to ensure accuracy of the impression. The impression was cast and a transparent acrylic conformer was made from the mould in the cast. The conformer was adjusted as required and Iris position determined. The conformer was then used to cast the final custom ocular prosthesis. The patient was then instructed on its usage and maintenance.

Result: A custom made ocular prosthesis was provided to the patient and it was to her satisfaction.

Conclusion: Custom made ocular prosthesis is highly recommended in rehabilitation of facial defects of a co-operative patient as it does not have most of the limitations which a stock ocular prosthesis does.

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.18(4) 2019 p.823-826
Greenwashing – fake green/environmental marketing
Authors: Lukinović M. , Jovanović L.
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the authors will present forms of fake green/environmental marketing, and above all, greenwashing, its manifestations, as well as its adverse impact. Along with the examples from the practice, the authors will also present legislative solutions grounded in comparative law, with a special emphasis on the solutions used within the Republic of Serbia. The adverse impact of greenwashing is hardly calculated, above all due to its great indirect impact on the consumers (creating mistrust, skepticism, confusion, resentment towards green products).
Psychology of university students' motivation
Authors: Grubi T. , Strelchenko A.
Published: September 2019

The article considers the main aspects of student’s motivation, the authors compare the main motives of university students with the main motives of 11th grade students for attending university. The levels of need for approval between university students and 11th grade students were compared.  In the article, an author’s questionnaire is presented. The practical recommendations were presented based on questionnaire results.
Risk factors for acute myocardial infarction in patients younger and middle age
Authors: Shazhanova N. , Egamova S. , Кudratova M.
Published: September 2019

We investigated 300 patients with primary and repeat MI, among them 197 have been complicated by myocardial infarction, including 142 patients with - myocardial infarction with tooth Q. Patients were divided into two age groups: young (under 45 years) - 70 people and middle-aged (46 to 60 years) - 230. All patients were treated between 2006 and 2012 in Bukhara branch and regional RSCEMH  Heart Hospital.

 The results of these studies indicate that the major risk factors for coronary heart disease are (male sex, lipid disorders, hypertension, physical inactivity, smoking, chronic foci of infections, excessive body weight) are found in most patients with myocardial infarction before the age of 60 years. The most important for the prevention of the disease and its complications in both groups of patients were corrected lipid metabolism disorders, smoking cessation, rehabilitation centers of infections, the normalization of physical activity.
Rationale, content, efficacy of psycho-correction of post-traumatic syndrome in combatants with partial vision loss due to combat trauma
Authors: Abdryahymov R.
Published: September 2019

With informed consent, 100 combatants were surveyed. Of these, 54 participants with eye injury and partial loss of vision due to participation in hostilities with clinical manifestations of post-traumatic syndrome; comparison group - 46 combatants with clinical manifestations of post-traumatic syndrome. All respondents were screened for a mental condition using the clinical diagnostic scale CAPS (Clinical-administered PTSD Scale), a neurotic and psychopathic level determination questionnaire (HNP), Diagnostics of Hayma’s Coping Strategies, Psychological Protection of Plutchik-Kellermann-Conte, WHO WHOQOL-100 quality of life questionnaire, Rosenzweig's test of frustration reactions (adult version) modified by P.V. Tarabry.
Upon completion of the survey, psychocorrectional measures were conducted with participants of the main group for 60 days. Methods of psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral, personality-oriented, rational, suggestive psychotherapy, psychological self-regulation were used. The results of psychocorrection were assessed according to the dynamics of the significance of clinical manifestations and these methods.
The application of a system of psychocorrectional measures to participants with an eye injury and partial loss of vision with clinical manifestations of post-traumatic syndrome allows to achieve neutralization or significant improvement in their mental state. This is confirmed by changes in the indicator indicators of the relevance of manifestations of somatic injury with clinical symptoms of post-traumatic syndrome, coping strategies and the structure of psychological protection, frustration response and level of assessment of quality of life. The changes achieved in the process of psychocorrection were significantly significant compared with the participants who are characterized by manifestations of post-traumatic syndrome without an eye injury. Changes achieved using psychocorrection did not reach for some indicators of the normative levels. This indicates the presence of manifestations associated with the consequences of somatic trauma and for their correction, the restructuring of life experience in the face of changes in personal capabilities is necessary.
‘Works and Days’ of Valerii Shevchuk (to the 80th Anniversary of Birth)
Authors: Movchan Raiisa
Published: September 2019

The essay is focused on the classic of the 20th century Ukrainian literature Valerii Shevchuk and his complex and diverse literary work in various genres. He is a writer (poet, prose writer, play writer), historian of culture, literary scholar, archivist, translator, memoirist, prominent representative of Kyiv Sixtiers, leader of ‘Zhytomyr prose school’ and forerunner of Ukrainian postmodernists. Special attention is paid to the sources of the author’s work, its metaphysical connection with Zhytomyr where he was born, and Kyiv where he has been living and writing and endured a decade of forced solitude remaining free, where he truly established himself as a Ukrainian writer. His research activity and translation work, focused on Ukrainian history and Old Ukrainian literature (particularly of the 16th–18th centuries), provoked the writer’s interest in Ukrainian Baroque tradition and its transformation in his own works.

It all started with poetry, which he never stopped writing. That is why the subjective stuff is also important in his prose, which is rational in its neo-baroque basis. The essay provides a general overview of the speciﬁc features of Shevchuk’s individual style, which is characterized by combination of realistic authenticity with convention or irreality, ‘high’ and ‘low’ narration style, travesty of storylines and images, parabolic technique, historiosophy, irony, etc. Worthy of separate attention and high esteem is the scholarly work of the writer and his contribution to the general ﬁeld of culture. This activity includes preparation of different anthologies and collections, numerous translations of Kyivan Rus texts into modern Ukrainian, many articles, prefaces, extensive historical and cultural studies, etc. The work of Valerii Shevchuk is important for the humanities and promotes self-consciousness and self-empowerment of Ukrainians, as well as their communication with the world cultural heritage.
What is Critical Digital Social Research? Five Reflections on the Study of Digital Society
Authors: Fuchs Christian
Published: September 2019

The creation of the Journal of Digital Social Research (JDSR) is an opportunity to ask: What is critical digital social research? What is the status of digital social research today? The contribution points out five reflections on the status of digital social research. These five observations focus on 1) diamond open access, 2) the theme of digital media & society, 3) critical digital methods, 4) critical digital theory & philosophy, 5) international and global digital research. These five dimensions form important foundations of critical digital social research.
Doing Digital Social (And Cultural and Media) Research: What Stays the Same When Everything Changes?
Authors: Jordan Tim
Published: September 2019

Research into digital sociality often encounters, both in academic and non-academic contexts, the claim that there is no point doing such research because the technologies being examined change so fast that analysis can never keep up. This article criticises any such claim. First, the article examines three kinds of 'sameness' that span the introduction of different technologies: internet-based text communication, digital platforms and information as a non-rival good. In each of these contexts this article explores how looking at what changes rapidly draws attention from forms of social power that stay the same across technologies. This article then argues from this examination that it is key to examine both differences and sameness when researching digital sociality.
Відсутність зброї як необхідна умова для безперешкодного здійснення права на мирні зібрання
Authors: Самбор М. А.
Published: September 2019

У статті досліджено «відсутність зброї» як ознака права на мирні зібрання. Досліджено загальноприйняте лінгвістичне розуміння поняття «зброя», а також нормативно закріплені поняття «зброя» у підзаконних нормативно-правових актах. На підставі аналізу поняття «зброя» та його співставлення з умовами здійснення права на мирні зібрання сформульовано складові елементи такоїознаки права на мирні зібрання, як «відсутність зброї».
Правове регулювання оперативно-розшукової протидії викраденню малолітніх осіб
Authors: Криворучко А. В. , Стащак М. В.
Published: September 2019

У статті зроблено спробу визначити проблеми правового регулювання оперативно-розшукової протидії викраденню малолітніх осіб та шляхи їх усунення. З’ясовано, що в теорії ОРД існують декілька підходів до розгляду питань правового регулювання того чи іншого оперативно-розшукового процесу. Проте, на думку авторів, для більш повного дослідження предмета статті є розгляд окремих нормативних актів, зокрема залежно від їх юридичної сили. Проаналізовано Конституцію України, акти міжнародного законодавства, що ратифіковані Верховною Радою України (Загальна Декларація прав людини, Міжнародний пакт про громадянські і політичні права, Гаазька конвенція про цивільно-правові аспекти міжнародного викрадення дітей від 25 жовтня 1980), Кримінальний кодекс України, Кримінальний процесуальний кодекс України, Закон України «Про оперативно-розшукову діяльність», Закон України «Про Національну поліцію» та відомчі нормативні акти.
Semi-Supervised Manifold Alignment Using Parallel Deep Autoencoders
Authors: Aziz Fayeem , Wong Aaron S. W. , Chalup Stephan
Published: September 2019

The aim of manifold learning is to extract low-dimensional manifolds from high-dimensional data. Manifold alignment is a variant of manifold learning that uses two or more datasets that are assumed to represent different high-dimensional representations of the same underlying manifold. Manifold alignment can be successful in detecting latent manifolds in cases where one version of the data alone is not sufficient to extract and establish a stable low-dimensional representation. The present study proposes a parallel deep autoencoder neural network architecture for manifold alignment and conducts a series of experiments using a protein-folding benchmark dataset and a suite of new datasets generated by simulating double-pendulum dynamics with underlying manifolds of dimensions 2, 3 and 4. The dimensionality and topological complexity of these latent manifolds are above those occurring in most previous studies. Our experimental results demonstrate that the parallel deep autoencoder performs in most cases better than the tested traditional methods of semi-supervised manifold alignment. We also show that the parallel deep autoencoder can process datasets of different input domains by aligning the manifolds extracted from kinematics parameters with those obtained from corresponding image data.
Models, Processes, and Roles of Universities in Technology Transfer Management: A Systematic Review
Authors: Maresova Petra , Stemberkova Ruzena , Fadeyi Oluwaseun
Published: September 2019

Universities play pivotal roles when research findings are to be adopted commercially. Although these roles vary from one country to another, effective patenting and licensing procedures, as well as eventual commercialisation of scholarly inventions, reflect hard work on the part of the University mediating between the researcher and the industry through technology transfer offices (TTOs) in order to ensure that knowledge-developers take motivational and monetary credit for their findings. This paper details some existing models, processes, and roles taken up in some countries where sharing of intellectual property exists, and links it up with aspects of university–industry technology transfer, such as policies surrounding patenting, government investment and marketing, and the process of academic entrepreneurship, among others. 22 articles were found via a systematic review of literature and analysed with respect to four identified areas of focus: internal strategy, investment and market, academic entrepreneurship and policy. Based on models, processes, and roles in reviewed studies, our results indicate that new models for technology transfer mainly stem from the fact that there is no universally accepted model in the literature. Furthermore, management of technology transfer is mostly the responsibility of TTOs in most countries. While university TTOs act as intermediaries to protect the interest of the author/inventor, issues such as poor relationships between universities and industry, as well as funding, remain major challenges in many emerging economies. In contrast, researchers in western economies are mainly challenged by financial motivation and recognition within the academic domains.
Effect of Different Combinations of Red and Blue LED Light on Growth Characteristics and Pigment Content of In Vitro Tomato Plantlets
Authors: Naznin Most Tahera , Lefsrud Mark , Azad Md Obyedul Kalam , Park Cheol Ho
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth characteristics and pigment content of tomato plantlets grown under various ratios of red (R) (661 nm) and blue (B) (449 nm) LED light. In this study, three different ratios of R and B (RB) light such as 5:01, 10:01, and 19:01 along with R (100%) were used. The photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD), and photoperiod of the growth chamber was 120 ± 5 μmol m−2s−1 and 16/8 h (day/night), respectively. Tomato plantlets were cultured for six weeks in the growth chamber. It was shown that tomato plantlets had higher photosynthesis rate, higher pigments content, higher growth characteristics (e.g., number of leaves, leaf area, shoot number, root number, root length, dry, and fresh mass), and greater surviving rate under the R:B = 10:01 ratio among the treatments. The plantlets showed at least a threefold decrease in photosynthesis rate, as well as a significant abnormal stem elongation when grown under 100% R light. It is concluded that the RB ratio of 10:01 showed excellent performance in all growth parameters. This result has shown that the optimum lighting environment improves tomato plantlet cultures in vitro.
Evaluation of Organic Spring Cover Crop Termination Practices to Enhance Rolling/Crimping
Authors: Price Andrew J. , Duzy Leah , McElroy J. Scott , Li Steve
Published: September 2019

With organic farming hectarage and cover crop interest increasing throughout the United States, effectively timed cover crop termination practices are needed that can be utilized in organic conservation tillage production systems. Four commercially available termination treatments approved by Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) were evaluated, immediately following mechanical termination with a cover crop roller/crimper and compared to a synthetic herbicide termination to access termination rates. Treatments included rolling/crimping followed by (1) 20% vinegar solution (28 L a.i. ha−1 acetic acid), (2) 2.5 L a.i. ha−1 45% cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum L.) oil (cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, eugenol acetate)/45% clove oil (eugenol, acetyl eugenol, caryophyllene) mixture, (3) 0.15 mm clear polyethylene sheeting applied with edges manually tucked into the soil for 28 days over the entire plot area (clear plastic), (4) broadcast flame emitting 1100 °C applied at 1.2 k/h (flame), (5) glyphosate applied at 1.12 kg a.i. ha−1 (this non-OMRI-approved, non-organic conservation tillage cover crop termination standard practice was included to help ascertain desiccation, regrowth, and economics), and (6) a non-treated control. Five cover crop species were evaluated: (1) hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth), (2) crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.), (3) cereal rye (Secale cereale L.), (4) Austrian winter pea (Pisum sativum L.), and (5) rape (Brassica napus L.). Three termination timings occurred at four-week intervals beginning mid-March each year. In April or May, organic producers are most likely to be successful using a roller crimper as either a broadcast flamer for terminating all winter covers evaluated, or utilizing clear plastic for hairy vetch, winter peas, and cereal rye. Ineffectiveness and regrowth concerns following cover crop termination in March are substantial. Commercially available vinegar and cinnamon/clove oil solutions provided little predictable termination, and producers attempting to use these OMRI-approved products will likely resort to cover crop incorporation, or mowing, to terminate covers if no other practice is readily available.
Local Dot Motion, Not Global Configuration, Determines Dogs’ Preference for Point-Light Displays
Authors: Eatherington Carla J. , Marinelli Lieta , Lõoke Miina , Battaglini Luca , Mongillo Paolo
Published: September 2019

Visual perception remains an understudied area of dog cognition, particularly the perception of biological motion where the small amount of previous research has created an unclear impression regarding dogs’ visual preference towards different types of point-light displays. To date, no thorough investigation has been conducted regarding which aspects of the motion contained in point-light displays attract dogs. To test this, pet dogs (N = 48) were presented with pairs of point-light displays with systematic manipulation of motion features (i.e., upright or inverted orientation, coherent or scrambled configuration, human or dog species). Results revealed a significant effect of inversion, with dogs directing significantly longer looking time towards upright than inverted dog point-light displays; no effect was found for scrambling or the scrambling-inversion interaction. No looking time bias was found when dogs were presented with human point-light displays, regardless of their orientation or configuration. The results of the current study imply that dogs’ visual preference is driven by the motion of individual dots in accordance with gravity, rather than the point-light display’s global arrangement, regardless their long exposure to human motion.
Improving the Welfare of Companion Dogs—Is Owner Education the Solution?
Authors: Philpotts Izzie , Dillon Justin , Rooney Nicola
Published: September 2019

Vets, animal welfare charities, and researchers have frequently cited educating owners as a necessity for improving the welfare of companion dogs. The assumption that improving an owner’s knowledge through an education intervention subsequently results in improvements in the welfare of the dog appears reasonable. However, the complexity of dog welfare and dog ownership and the context in which these relationships occur is rapidly changing. Psychology has demonstrated that humans are complex, with values, attitudes, and beliefs influencing our behaviours as much as knowledge and understanding. Equally, the context in which we individuals and our dogs live is rapidly changing and responding to evolving societal and cultural norms. Therefore, we seek to understand education’s effectiveness as an approach to improving welfare through exploring and understanding these complexities, in conjunction with the relevant research from the disciplines of science education and communication. We argue that well designed and rigorously evaluated education interventions can play a part in the challenge of improving welfare, but that these may have limited scope, and welfare scientists could further consider extending cross-disciplinary, cross-boundary working, and research in order to improve the welfare of companion dogs.
Effects of Mining Activities on Gerbillus nanus in Saudi Arabia: A Biochemical and Histological Study
Authors: Almalki Ahmed M. , Ajarem Jamaan , Altoom Naif , Al-Otaibi Fahed S. , Maodaa Saleh N. , Allam Ahmed A. , Mahmoud Ayman M.
Published: September 2019

Mining can impact the environment, biodiversity, and human health through direct and indirect practices. This study investigated the effects of gold mining on Gerbillus nanus, in relation to organ dysfunction and redox imbalance. Soil samples, Lycium shawii, and G. nanus were collected from a site near a mining plant, and a control site. Soil and L. shawii samples from the mining site showed significantly higher cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), and vanadium (V) levels. Hepatic, renal, and pulmonary Cd, Pb, Hg, Zn, Cu, Fe, As, and V concentrations were significantly higher in G. nanus from the mining site. Markers of liver and kidney function were elevated in serum, and several histological manifestations were observed in the liver, kidney, and lung of G. nanus from the mining site. Malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels increased, and glutathione and antioxidant enzymes decreased in the liver and kidney of G. nanus. In conclusion, mining practices trigger tissue damage and oxidative stress in G. nanus that live close to the mining site. These findings can represent a scientific basis for evaluating the environmental and health impacts of mining on nearby communities.
Understanding How Infrared Beak Treatment Affects the Beak Tissue and the Healing Response of Brown and White Feathered Layer Pullets
Authors: Struthers Sarah , Gupta Ashish , Gomis Susantha , Herwig Eugenia , Schwean-Lardner Karen
Published: September 2019

Infrared beak treatment has less of a negative impact on laying hen welfare compared to other methods of beak treatment; however, it is still not fully understood how infrared beak treatment affects the beak tissue during the first few days post treatment. The objective of this study was to examine the histology of infrared beak treated vs. untreated beaks of 2 strains of layer chicks during early life. One-hundred Lohmann Brown-Lite (LB) and 100 Lohmann LSL-Lite (LW) chicks were obtained; 50 chicks per strain were infrared beak treated post hatch (IR) with the remainder being sham untreated controls (C). Data collected included presence of beak sloughing, length, and histology. Histology slides were analyzed and scored on a scale of 0 to 4, with 0 indicating no lesions and 4 indicating severe inflammation. Sloughing of the treated beak tissue began at 10 days and was complete by 20 days. IR pullets had shorter beak lengths once sloughing was initiated and less overall beak growth. No differences in healing scores were found between treated LB and LW beaks; all treated LB beaks were healed by 21 days while some LW beaks still showed inflammation. Overall, infrared beak treatment was effective at reducing beak growth post treatment. Healing occurred post treatment in both strains as evident by complete regeneration of the epithelium and a reduction in inflammation.
Optimization of an Antibody Light Chain Framework Enhances Expression, Biophysical Properties and Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Douillard Patrice , Freissmuth Michael , Antoine Gerhard , Thiele Michael , Fleischanderl Daniel , Matthiessen Peter , Voelkel Dirk , Kerschbaumer Randolf J. , Scheiflinger Friedrich , Sabarth Nicolas
Published: September 2019

Efficacy, safety, and manufacturability of therapeutic antibodies are influenced by their biopharmaceutical and biophysical properties. These properties can be optimized by library approaches or rationale protein design. Here, we employed a protein engineering approach to modify the variable domain of the light chain (VL) framework of an oxidized macrophage migration inhibitory factor (oxMIF)-specific antibody. The amendment of the antibody sequence was based on homology to human germline VL genes. Three regions or positions were identified in the VL domain—L1-4, L66, L79—and mutated independently or in combination to match the closest germline V gene. None of the mutations altered oxMIF specificity or affinity, but some variants improved thermal stability, aggregation propensity, and resulted in up to five-fold higher expression. Importantly, the improved biopharmaceutical properties translated into a superior pharmacokinetic profile of the antibody. Thus, optimization of the V domain framework can ameliorate the biophysical qualities of a therapeutic antibody candidate, and as result its manufacturability, and also has the potential to improve pharmacokinetics.
Dynamics of Multipole Solitons and Vortex Solitons in PT-Symmetric Triangular Lattices with Nonlocal Nonlinearity
Authors: Huang Jing , Weng Yuanhang , Chen Peijun , Wang Hong
Published: September 2019

We investigate the evolution dynamics of solitons with complex structures in the PT-symmetric triangular lattices with nonlocal nonlinearity, including dipole solitons, six-pole solitons, and vortex solitons. Dipole solitons can be linearly stable with a small degree of gain/loss, while six-pole solitons can only be stable when both the degree of gain/loss and the degree of nonlocality are small. For unstable solitons, some humps will decay quickly or new hotspots will appear during propagation. According to the existence range of dipole solitons, the multipole solitons tend to exist in PT-symmetric triangular lattices whose nonlocal nonlinearity is intermediate. We also consider the vortex solitons with high topological charges in the same triangular lattices and find that their profiles are codetermined by the propagation constant, degree of nonlocality, and topological charge.
A Finite Element Investigation into the Effect of Slope of Grain on Wood Baseball Bat Durability
Authors: Fortin-Smith Joshua , Sherwood James , Drane Patrick , Ruggiero Eric , Campshure Blake , Kretschmann David
Published: September 2019

Bat durability is defined as the relative bat/ball speed that results in bat breakage, i.e., the higher the speed required to initiate bat cracking, the better the durability. In 2008, Major League Baseball added a regulation to the Wooden Baseball Bat Standards concerning Slope-of-Grain (SoG), defined to be the angle of the grain of the wood in the bat with respect to a line parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bat, as part of an overall strategy to reverse what was perceived to be an increasing rate of wood bats breaking into multiple pieces during games. The combination of a set of regulations concerning wood density, prescribed hitting surface, and SoG led to a 30% reduction in the rate of multi-piece failures. In an effort to develop a fundamental understanding of how changes in the SoG impact the resulting bat durability, a popular professional bat profile was examined using the finite element method in a parametric study to quantify the relationship between SoG and bat durability. The parametric study was completed for a span of combinations of wood SoGs, wood species (ash, maple, and yellow birch), inside-pitch and outside-pitch impact locations, and bat/ball impact speeds ranging from 90 to 180 mph (145 to 290 kph). The *MAT_WOOD (MAT_143) material model in LS-DYNA was used for implementing the wood material behavior in the finite element models. A strain-to-failure criterion was also used in the *MAT_ADD_EROSION option to capture the initiation point and subsequent crack propagation as the wood breaks. Differences among the durability responses of the three wood species are presented and discussed. Maple is concluded to be the most likely of the three wood species to result in a Multi-Piece Failure. The finite element models show that while a 0°-SoG bat is not necessarily the most durable configuration, it is the most versatile with respect to bat durability. This study is the first comprehensive numerical investigation as to the relationship between SoG and bat durability. Before this numerical study, only limited empirical data from bats broken during games were available to imply a qualitative relationship between SoG and bat durability. This novel study can serve as the basis for developing future parametric studies using finite element modeling to explore a large set of bat profiles and thereby to develop a deeper fundamental understanding of the relationship among bat profile, wood species, wood SoG, wood density, and on-field durability.
A Review of Early Injection Strategy in Premixed Combustion Engines
Authors: Liang Xingyu , Zheng Zhiwei , Zhang Hongsheng , Wang Yuesen , Yu Hanzhengnan
Published: September 2019

Due to the increasing awareness of environmental protection, limitations on exhaust emissions of diesel engines have become increasingly stringent. This challenges diesel engine manufacturers to find a new balance between engine performance and emissions. Advanced combustion modes for diesel engines, such as homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) and premixed charge compression ignition (PCCI), which can simultaneously reduce exhaust emissions and substantially improve thermal efficiency, have drawn increasing attention. In order to allow enough time to prepare the homogeneous mixture, the early injection strategy has been utilized widely in HCCI and PCCI diesel engines. This paper is aimed at providing a comprehensive review of the effects of early injection parameters on the performance and emissions of HCCI and PCCI engines fueled by both diesel and alternative fuels. Various early injection parameters, including injection pressure, injection timing, and injection angle, are discussed. In addition, the effect of the blending ratio of alternative fuels is also summarized. Every change in parameters has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are explained in detail in order to help researchers choose the best early injection parameters for HCCI and PCCI engines.
A Deep Belief Network Combined with Modified Grey Wolf Optimization Algorithm for PM2.5 Concentration Prediction
Authors: Xing Yin , Yue Jianping , Chen Chuang , Xiang Yunfei , Chen Yang , Shi Manxing
Published: September 2019

Accurate PM2.5 concentration prediction is crucial for protecting public health and improving air quality. As a popular deep learning model, deep belief network (DBN) for PM2.5 concentration prediction has received increasing attention due to its effectiveness. However, the DBN structure parameters that have a significant impact on prediction accuracy and computation time are hard to be determined. To address this issue, a modified grey wolf optimization (MGWO) algorithm is proposed to optimize the DBN structure parameters containing number of hidden nodes, learning rate, and momentum coefficient. The methodology modifies the basic grey wolf optimization (GWO) algorithm using the nonlinear convergence and position update strategies, and then utilizes the training error of the DBN to calculate the fitness function of the MGWO algorithm. Through the multiple iterations, the optimal structure parameters are obtained, and a suitable predictor is finally generated. The proposed prediction model is validated on a real application case. Compared with the other prediction models, experimental results show that the proposed model has a simpler structure but higher prediction accuracy.
Experimental Research on the Properties of Rock-Filled Concrete
Authors: Wei Hai , Zhang Guohui , Sun Fanfan , Wang Mingming , Li Wenhai , Xu Juncai
Published: September 2019

In order to comprehensively evaluate the properties of rock-filled concrete (RFC) with the strength of C15, lab experimental test and in-situ test are applied to explore the mechanical, hydraulic, ultrasonic characteristics of RFC in Hantang reservoir dam. Four types of defects within RFC are shown from the appearance of borehole cores specimens: (1) large sized voids existing in interfacial transition zone (ITZ) between self-compacting concrete (SCC) and rock block (RB); (2) bad cohesion in ITZ; (3) joints within rock block; (4) voids within SCC. For hydraulic aspects, the average porosity of RFC is 14.10%; the permeability rate of RFC ranges from 2.41 Lu to 10.41 Lu, with the average of 11.32 Lu, occasionally more than 25.52 Lu due to interconnected defects. For ultrasonic aspects, the ultrasonic velocity of RFC conforms to lognormal distribution, with the average of 2993.3 m/s and standard deviation of 650.5 m/s. For mechanical aspects, the average cubic compressive strength of RFC is 22.55 Mpa, with the standard deviation of 4.09 Mp. Thus the data shows a relatively great dispersion due to uneven distribution of some defects in RFC, which deteriorate the quality of RFC. Through the experimental investigation, it is shown that the quality of massive RFC in the Hantang dam is obviously non-homogeneous, mainly influenced by construction technology.
A Novel Hybrid Fuzzy Grey TOPSIS Method: Supplier Evaluation of a Collaborative Manufacturing Enterprise
Authors: Feng Yixiong , Zhang Zhifeng , Tian Guangdong , Fathollahi-Fard Amir Mohammad , Hao Nannan , Li Zhiwu , Wang Wenjie , Tan Jianrong
Published: September 2019

Recently, there is of significant interest in developing multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) techniques with large applications for real-life problems. Making a reasonable and accurate decision on MCDM problems can help develop enterprises better. The existing MCDM methods, such as the grey comprehensive evaluation (GCE) method and the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS), have their one-sidedness and shortcomings. They neither consider the difference of shape and the distance of the evaluation sequence of alternatives simultaneously nor deal with the interaction that universally exists among criteria. Furthermore, some enterprises cannot consult the best professional expert, which leads to inappropriate decisions. These reasons motivate us to contribute a novel hybrid MCDM technique called the grey fuzzy TOPSIS (FGT). It applies fuzzy measures and fuzzy integral to express and integrate the interaction among criteria, respectively. Fuzzy numbers are employed to help the experts to make more reasonable and accurate evaluations. The GCE method and the TOPSIS are combined to improve their one-sidedness. A case study of supplier evaluation of a collaborative manufacturing enterprise verifies the effectiveness of the hybrid method. The evaluation result of different methods shows that the proposed approach overcomes the shortcomings of GCE and TOPSIS. The proposed hybrid decision-making model provides a more accurate and reliable method for evaluating the fuzzy system MCDM problems with interaction criteria.