bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cartwright–Sturmfels ideals associated to graphs and linear spaces
Authors: Conca Aldo , De Negri Emanuela , Gorla Elisa
Published: August 2018

Inspired by work of Cartwright and Sturmfels, in [15] we introduced two classes of multigraded ideals named after them. These ideals are defined in terms of properties of their multigraded generic initial ideals. The goal of this paper is showing that three families of ideals that have recently attracted the attention of researchers are Cartwright–Sturmfels ideals. More specifically, we prove that binomial edge ideals, multigraded homogenizations of linear spaces, and multiview ideals are Cartwright–Sturmfels ideals, hence recovering and extending recent results of Herzog, Hibi, Hreinsdottir, Kahle, and Rauh [20], Ohtani [28], Ardila and Boocher [3], Aholt, Sturmfels, and Thomas [2], and Binglin Li [6].We also propose a conjecture on the rigidity of local cohomology modules of Cartwright–Sturmfels ideals, that was inspired by a theorem of Brion. We provide some evidence for the conjecture by proving it in the monomial case.
A partial order on bipartitions from the generalized Springer correspondence
Authors: Xia Jianqiao
Published: August 2018

In [1], Lusztig gives an explicit formula for the bijection between the set of bipartitions and the set

\mathcal{N}

of unipotent classes in a spin group which carry irreducible local systems equivariant for the spin group but not equivariant for the special orthogonal group. The set

\mathcal{N}

has a natural partial order and therefore induces a partial order on bipartitions. We use the explicit formula given in [1] to prove that this partial order on bipartitions is the same as the dominance order appeared in Dipper–James–Murphy's work [2].
Molecular Detection of Residual Parasitemia after Pyronaridine–Artesunate or Artemether–Lumefantrine Treatment of Uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum Malaria in Kenyan Children
Authors: Roth Johanna M. , Sawa Patrick , Omweri George , Makio Nicodemus , Osoti Victor , de Jong Menno D. , Schallig Henk D. F. H. , Mens Pètra F.
Published: August 2018

Artemisinin resistance is rapidly rising in Southeast Asia and may spread to African countries, where efficacy estimates are currently still excellent. Extensive monitoring of parasite clearance dynamics after treatment is needed to determine whether responsiveness to artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACT) is changing in Africa. In this study, Kenyan children with uncomplicated falciparum malaria were randomly assigned to pyronaridine–artesunate (PA) or artemether–lumefantrine (AL) treatment. Parasite clearance was evaluated over 7 days following the start of treatment by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and direct-on-blood PCR nucleic acid lateral flow immunoassay (db-PCR-NALFIA), a simplified molecular malaria diagnostic. Residual parasitemia at day 7 was detected by qPCR in 37.1% (26/70) of AL-treated children and in 46.1% (35/76) of PA-treated participants (P = 0.275). Direct-on-blood PCR nucleic acid lateral flow immunoassay detected residual parasites at day 7 in 33.3% (23/69) and 30.3% (23/76) of AL and PA-treated participants, respectively (P = 0.692). qPCR-determined parasitemia at day 7 was associated with increased prevalence and density of gametocytes at baseline (P = 0.014 and P = 0.003, for prevalence and density, respectively) and during follow-up (P = 0.007 and P = 0.011, respectively, at day 7). A positive db-PCR-NALFIA outcome at day 7 was associated with treatment failure (odds ratio [OR]: 3.410, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.513–7.689, P = 0.003), but this association was not found for qPCR (OR: 0.701, 95% CI: 0.312–1.578, P = 0.391). Both qPCR and db-PCR-NALFIA detected substantial residual submicroscopic parasitemia after microscopically successful PA and AL treatment and can be useful tools to monitor parasite clearance. To predict treatment outcome, db-PCR-NALFIA may be more suitable than qPCR.
Impacts of Silver Nanoparticle Ingestion on Pigmentation and Developmental Progression in Drosophila
Authors: Silver Key S. Catherine , Reaves Denise , Turner Fran , Bang John J.
Published: August 2018

In recent years, the advent of nanomaterial use has increased exposure rates and raised health concerns. However, the toxicology profiles of many nanomaterials are far from complete for various reasons. In this study, Drosophila melanogaster, commonly called fruit flies, were exposed to one of the most widely used nanomaterials, silver nanopowder (Ag NP), to assess its toxicity and determine if D. melanogaster would be a good model organism for nanotoxicology studies. Comparison of developmental progression amongst groups of flies ingesting different Ag NP concentrations (0.05%/~90 ppm-5.0%/~9000 ppm), revealed that hatch rates were unaffected, but that larval progression was impeded at any dosage of Ag NP. At 0.3% Ag NP an approximate LD50 was observed. Additionally, a distinctive phenotype was observed among emergent adults (F1 generation) that arose from larvae exposed to Ag NP which included reduced body pigmentation accompanied by shortened life span and abnormal climbing behavior. The phenotype prompted speculation that Ag NPs may affect the dopamine and/or the stress response pathway(s).
Effects of Carbon Nanotubes on a Neuronal Cell Model In Vitro
Authors: Bang John , Yeyeodu Susan , Gilyazova Naila , Witherspoon Sam , Ibeanu Gordon
Published: August 2018

As the use of nanomaterials continues to flourish in industrial and biomedical applications so does the concern that these materials may have unanticipated and undesirable effects on human health and the environment. Inhaled or ingested nanoparticles have been detected in the brain, among other organs, raising the question as to their effect on neuronal viability. The effects of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the viability of NeuroScreen-1 (NS-1) cells, a neuronal cell model, were studied. Resazurin reduction and in situ Hoechst and propidium iodide (PI) double staining indicated MWCNTs reduce cell viability. Caspase 3/7 activity on par with etoposide-induced apoptosis was not observed until 72 hours and was only 20-30% higher than controls. However, increased levels of annexin V in the outer leaflet of the cell plasma membranes after 24 hours and a minimum two-fold increase in relative mitochondrial depolarization after 48 hours both suggested MWCNTs promoted apoptosis in this neuronal cell model.
Modeling Absolute and Allometric Growth in Houbara Bustard (Chlamydotis undulata undulata) in Captivity
Authors: Korrida Amal , Nahashon Samuel N. , Amin-Alami Amal , Jadallah Sami , Aggrey Samuel E.
Published: August 2018

Absolute and allometric growth of Houbara Bustard (Chlamydotis undulata undulata) were studied. Using body weight measurements from hatch till 120 days of age, the Gompertz-Laird growth model was used to describe the growth pattern of the Houbara. Whereas the model underpredicted the hatching weight (34 vs 40 g), the predicted asymptotic body weight was in concordance with the data (1193 g). The same growth model was also used to describe the growth pattern of beak and shank length, chest girth and wing span. The beak reached asymptotic length faster than the shank, chest girth and wing span. We used the log transformed relationship of Huxley to determine the allometric relationship of beak length, shank length, chest girth and wing span relative to body weight from hatch to 120 days. The allometric growth analysis indicated that, beak length, shank length, chest girth and wing span all followed a hypometric allometry (b<1) relative to body weight growth. However, the wing span has the highest allometric growth compared to the other measurements indicating the evolutionary importance of developing wings for quick flights from predators.
A large-area blackbody for in-flight calibration of an infrared interferometer deployed on board a long-duration balloon for stratospheric research
Authors: Olschewski Friedhelm , Monte Christian , Adibekyan Albert , Reiniger Max , Gutschwager Berndt , Hollandt Joerg , Koppmann Ralf
Published: August 2018

Abstract. The deployment of the imaging Fourier Transform Spectrometer
GLORIA (Gimballed Limb Observer for Radiance Imaging of the Atmosphere) on
board a long-duration balloon for stratospheric research requires a blackbody
for in-flight calibration in order to provide traceability to the
International Temperature Scale (ITS-90) to ensure comparability with the
results of other experiments and over time. GLORIA, which has been deployed
onboard various research aircraft such as the Russian M55 Geophysica or the
German HALO in the past, shall also be used for detailed atmospheric
measurements in the stratosphere up to 40 km altitude. The instrument
uses a two-dimensional detector array and an imaging optics with a large
aperture diameter of 36 mm and an opening angle of
4.07∘ × 4.07∘ for infrared limb observations. To
overfill the field of view (FOV) of the instrument, a large-area blackbody
radiation sources (125 mm × 125 mm) is required for
in-flight calibration. In order to meet the requirements regarding the scientific goals of the
GLORIA missions, the radiance temperature of the blackbody calibration source
has to be determined to better than 100 mK and the spatial
temperature uniformity shall be better than 150 mK. As electrical
resources on board a stratospheric balloon are very limited, the latent heat
of the phase change of a eutectic material is utilized for temperature
stabilization of the calibration source, such that the blackbody has a
constant temperature of about −32 ∘C corresponding to a
typical temperature observed in the stratosphere. The Institute for Atmospheric and Environmental Research at the University of
Wuppertal designed and manufactured a prototype of the large-area blackbody
for in-flight calibration of an infrared interferometer deployed on board a
long-duration balloon for stratospheric research. This newly developed
calibration source was tested under lab conditions as well as in a climatic
and environmental test chamber in order to verify its performance especially
under flight conditions. At the PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt), the
German national metrology institute, the spatial radiance distribution of the
blackbody was determined and traceability to the International Temperature
Scale (ITS-90) has been assured. In this paper the design and performance of
the balloon-borne blackbody (BBB) is presented.
Production of highly oxygenated organic molecules (HOMs) from trace contaminants during isoprene oxidation
Authors: Bernhammer Anne-Kathrin , Fischer Lukas , Mentler Bernhard , Heinritzi Martin , Simon Mario , Hansel Armin
Published: August 2018

Abstract. During nucleation studies from pure isoprene oxidation in the CLOUD chamber
at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) we observed
unexpected ion signals at m∕z = 137.133
(C10H17+) and m∕z = 81.070
(C6H9+) with the recently developed
proton-transfer-reaction time-of-flight (PTR3-TOF) mass spectrometer
instrument. The mass-to-charge ratios of these ion signals typically
correspond to protonated monoterpenes and their main fragment. We identified
two origins of these signals: first secondary association reactions of
protonated isoprene with isoprene within the PTR3-TOF reaction chamber and
secondly [4+2] cycloaddition (Diels–Alder) of isoprene inside the gas
bottle which presumably forms the favored monoterpenes limonene and
sylvestrene, as known from literature. Under our PTR3-TOF conditions used in
2016 an amount (relative to isoprene) of 2 % is formed within the
PTR3-TOF reaction chamber and 1 % is already present in the gas bottle.
The presence of unwanted cycloaddition products in the CLOUD chamber impacts
the nucleation studies by creating ozonolysis products as the corresponding
monoterpenes and is responsible for the majority of the observed highly
oxygenated organic molecules (HOMs), which in turn leads to a significant
overestimation of both the nucleation rate and the growth rate. In order to
study new particle formation (NPF) from pure isoprene oxidation under
relevant atmospheric conditions, it is important to improve and assure the
quality and purity of the precursor isoprene. This was successfully achieved
by cryogenically trapping lower-volatility compounds such as monoterpenes
before isoprene was introduced into the CLOUD chamber.
Similarities within a multi-model ensemble: functional data analysis
framework
Authors: Holtanová Eva , Mendlik Thomas , Koláček Jan , Horová Ivanka , Mikšovský Jiří
Published: August 2018

Abstract. Despite the abundance of available global and regional climate model outputs, their use for evaluation of past and future climate changes is often complicated by substantial differences between individual simulations, and the resulting uncertainties. In this study, we present a methodology framework for the analysis of multi-model ensembles based on functional data analysis approach. A set of two metrics that generalize the concept of similarity based on the behaviour of entire simulated climatic time series, encompassing both past and future periods, is introduced. As far as our knowledge, our method is the first to quantitatively assess similarities between model simulations based on the temporal evolution of simulated values. To evaluate mutual distances of the time series we used two semimetrics based on Euclidean distances between the simulated trajectories and on differences in their first derivatives. Further, we introduce an innovative way of visualizing climate model similarities based on a network spatialization algorithm. Using the layout graphs the data are ordered on a 2-dimensional plane which enables an unambiguous interpretation of the results. The method is demonstrated using two illustrative cases of air temperature over the British Isles and precipitation in central Europe, simulated by an ensemble of EURO-CORDEX regional climate models and their driving global climate models over the 1971–2098 period. In addition to the sample results, interpretational aspects of the applied methodology and its possible extensions are also discussed.
Channelized, distributed, and disconnected: subglacial drainage under a valley glacier in the Yukon
Authors: Rada Camilo , Schoof Christian
Published: August 2018

Abstract. The subglacial drainage system is one of the main controls on basal sliding,
but remains only partially understood. Here we use an 8-year dataset of
borehole observations on a small, alpine polythermal valley glacier in the
Yukon Territory to assess qualitatively how well the established
understanding of drainage physics explains the observed temporal evolution
and spatial configuration of the drainage system. We find that the standard
picture of a channelizing drainage system that evolves towards higher
effective pressure explains many features of the dataset. However, our
dataset underlines the importance of hydraulic isolation of parts of the bed.
We observe how disconnected portions of the bed systematically grow towards
the end of the summer season, causing the drainage system to fragment into
progressively more distinct subsystems. We conclude with an adaptation of
existing drainage models that aims to capture the ability of parts of the bed
to become hydraulically disconnected due to basal cavities of finite size
becoming disconnected from each other as they shrink.
Classical World-Systems Analysis, the Historical Geography of British North America, and the Regional Politics of Colonial/Revolutionary New York
Authors: Leitner Jonathan
Published: August 2018

A less-appreciated aspect of earlier or “classical” works of world-systems analysis (WSA), in particular that of Braudel, Frank, and Wallerstein in the 1970s-80s is the examination of why the thirteen North American colonies that became the United States split from Great Britain. Specifically, why did some of Britain’s North American colonies revolt in the mid-1770s, but not others? Why were some colonists pro-independence while others preferred remaining within the empire? Classical WSA suggested regional differentiation among colonists, and later works in the WSA tradition have examined these divisions in British North America, particularly within individual colonies, based on both larger divisions in the world-economy and localized core-periphery structures. Yet classical WSA’s analytical questions about British North America’s independence movement have been more directly addressed by historical geographers. This paper synthesizes classical WSA with works on the historical geography of British North America, and then examines the synthesis in light of colonial New York and its political-economic geography of several distinct regions, each with varying economic and political interests vis à vis the British Empire and the question of independence.
Impact Assessment of Environmental Law on the Administrative Costs of Enterprises Using SCM Methodology: A Case Study
Authors: Colaço dos Santos Maria do Céu , De Faria Bilhim João Abreu
Published: August 2018

The regulatory reforms initiated by the international and national bodies aim for a “better regulation”, “better policies for a better life” and “better policies for sustainable development”. In this sense, better regulatory activity abides by a set of principles that makes it a “good-quality regulation”. A better regulation is one which reaches its purposes at a reduced cost. The cost-benefit analysis has been an exercise adopted by the international and national bodies for the evaluation of the impact of the law. A systematic analysis of the impact is encouraged, on an ex-ante and ex-post cycle of the legislative process, with the purpose of diagnosing and reducing the unnecessary charges for companies and citizens. In this context, this work offers an investigation of the impact of the environmental law on the administrative costs of Portuguese companies, applying the standard cost model (SCM) methodology. We concluded that the administrative charges for the companies arising from the time spent on the fulfilment of information obligations resulting from the law exceed what is acceptable and that this spent time encompasses the irritation costs and lost opportunities for companies. Environmental licences impose many legal requirements for the protection of soil, air and water and encompass a diversified set of competent public authorities that share the monitoring and regulation of the covered economic activities, contributing to the massification of bureaucracy and, consequently, to the administrative costs.
Use of coarse woody debris by aquatic insects in Elk Creek, Erie County, Pennsylvania
Authors: Phillips Edward
Published: August 2018

Aquatic insects were sampled monthly from Elk Creek in northwestern Pennsylvania, from both coarse woody debris (CWD) and benthic habitats, to determine the density and species composition of insects colonizing both habitat types. Degree of conditioning of CWD was evaluated to determine if insects preferred to colonize wood in a particular state of decay. One-way ANOVA revealed that mean overall density of aquatic insects was significantly greater (F = 102.34, p < .001) in cobble benthic habitats (1235/m2) than on CWD (448/m2). Stage of decay was a significant (F = 94.67, p < .001) factor in colonization of CWD by insects. The greatest mean annual densities of insects were collected from CWD in decay stages III (905/m2) and V (826/m2), which did not differ significantly from one another. Overall, this study shows that CWD is an important habitat in Elk Creek and that wood condition is a significant factor in colonization.
Inaktivasi In Situ Pencemaran Kadmium pada Tanah Pertanian Menggunakan Amelioran dan Pupuk pada Dosis Rasional untuk Budidaya Tanaman
Authors: Sudadi Untung , Sabiham Supiandi , Sutandi Atang , Saeni Muchammad Sri
Published: August 2018

Arable soils located in the vicinity of urban and industrial area are considered vulnerable to heavy metals pollution.  Chemical inactivation, an in situ remediation method that used inexpensive chemicals to reduce pollutant solubility in polluted soil, was examined on a Cd-spiked arable soil. The study was aimed at to investigate the effectiveness of ameliorants and fertilizers normally recommended for crop cultivation, using tomato as the test plant, from the point of view to reduce soil Cd extractability and plant Cd concentration. A 100-day greenhouse experiment in completely randomized de­sign consisting of three rates of rationale dosage of ameliorants and fertilizers (RDAF) [0, 50, 100%] and four levels of soil Cd spike [0, 10, 20, 40 mg Cd kg-1 soil, using 3CdSO4.8H2O] in triplicate was conducted. The 100% rate of RDAF applied was: 4 ton dolomite ha-1, 30 ton cow dung ha-1, 150 kg N ha-1 (½ Urea + ½ Ammonium Sulfate), 150 kg P2O5 ha-1 (SP-36) and 100 kg K2O ha-1 (KCl). Significant reductions in soil extractable Cd (CdNH4OAc-EDTA) [from 13.35 to 8.77 mg kg-1, 34%] and plant shoots-Cd (Cdps) [from 8.66 to 5.46 μg g-1, 37%] were measured at 100% RDAF treatment as compared to the control soil, indicating the occurrence of an in situ soil Cd inactivation and plant element selective-uptake phenomenon. Multiple regression analysis that incorporating all 36 data pairs resulted in the following equations: (1) soil CdNH4OAc-EDTA = – 0.18 pHH2O + 0.21 PBray#1 + 0.51 organic-C – 0.57 exch.-Mg + 0.65 Cdaqua regia (R2 = 0.76), and (2) Cdps = 0.08 Nps – 0.17 Kps – 0.19 Mgps – 0.24 Pps + 0.27 Sps – 0.41 Caps (R2 = 0.54, 3 outliers removed). These results suggest that a proper amelioration and fertilization program may be prospective to be recommended as a low-cost Cd pollution remediation strategy for arable soils
Penentuan Kebutuhan Pupuk Kalium dengan Uji K-Tanah untuk Tanaman jagung di Typic Kandiudox
Authors: Sutriadi Mas Teddy , Setyorini Diah , Nursyamsi Deddi , Murni Andarias Makka
Published: August 2018

Fertilization of K is very important to increase product agriculture besides fertilization of N and P. In this time usage fertilizer not yet proportional and rational, such as those which happened in usage rice field fertilizer of K for the crop of paddy tend to excessively. The other way in the upland needing more fertlizer but fertilized slimmer or is not fertlized K. Proportional and rational fertilization can reach if pay attention the nutrients dynamics and soil status, and also requirement of nutrient for this crop to reach optimum production. This approach can be executed better and profit if fertilization recommendation based on by result of research soil testing.  Research goal to to determine requirement of K fertilizer  for maize in Typic Kandiudox. The experiments used split-plot design, as main plot are five status nutrients and as sub plot are five treatments of K levels, three replications. The levels of K treatment were 0, 20, 40, 80, and 160 kg K/ha from KCl fertilizer and as indicator crop was maize cultivar P-12.  The result showed that NH4OAc. pH 4,8, NH4OAc. pH 7,0, and HCl 25% were selected extraction methode to estimate K fertilizer requirement  for Maize (Zea mays L.) in Typic Kandiudox and NH4OAc. 1 N pH 4,8 was the best extractan, because get highest coefisien corelation. The K status can be grouped into three classes of availability of K are low, medium, and high with the critical limit for each extractan are 5,0; 10,0; dan 130 mg kg-1 K2O for NH4OAc. 1 N pH 4,8, NH4OAc. 1 N pH 7,0, and HCl 25 % extractants respectively. Optimum dosages of K fertilizer was 150 kg ha-1 and 75 kg ha-1 KCl each for the low and medium status and do not be fertilized for the high status.
Kandungan Nitrogen dan Bobot Biji Kentang yang Diberi Pupuk Organik Difermentasi, Azospirillum Sp., dan Pupuk Nitrogen di Cisarua, Lembang, Jawa Barat
Authors: Nurmayulis . , Maryati .
Published: August 2018

A research was conducted to study response of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) plant to the application of  fermented organic matter (‘porasi’) (0, 7.5, 15.0, and 22.5 t ha-1), without or with inoculation of Azospirillum sp., and N fertilizer (0, 86, 172, and 258 kg ha-1 N) and also to determine optimal rate of application of ‘porasi’ and N fertilizer without or with inoculant Azospirillum sp.  Field experiments were carried out in Cisarua, Lembang West Java, from June 2003 to Nov. 2003.  The experiments were done in a Randomized Block Design of factorial pattern of three factors, were replicated three times.  Results of the experiments showed that: (1) N contents were higher as rates of ‘porasi’ and N fertilizer increased and with inoculation of Azospirillum sp.,  whereas the highest N concentration was obtained due to application of 22.5 t ha-1 ‘porasi’ with inoculation of  Azospirillum sp. and application of N fertilizer of 258 kg ha-1, and (2) the optimum rate of  ‘porasi’ and N fertilizer without inoculation of Azospirillum sp. was 15.287 t ha-1 and 228.519 kg ha-1 N, respectively, to obtain maximum yield of 6.028 kg per plot or 25.117 t ha-1, whereas with inoculation of  Azospirillum sp. the optimum rate of ‘porasi’ and N fertilizer was 16.464 t ha-1 and 190.110 kg ha-1 N,  respectively, with maximum yield of 6.493  kg per plot or 27.054  t ha-1.
Kelarutan Fosfat dan Ferro pada Tanah Sulfat Masam yang Diberi Bahan Organik Jerami Padi
Authors: Fahmi Arifin , Radjagukguk Bostang , Purwanto Benito Heru
Published: August 2018

The objective of this research was to investigate the effect of application of organic matter from rice straw (RS) on phosphate and Fe2+ solubility in the acid sulphate soils. The research was conducted in the glass house consisting of the three treatment factors using the completely randomized design with three replication. The first factor was soil condition : continuous application of RS and without application of RS during the last 5 years. The second factor was fresh application of RS ; with application and without application, whereas the third factor was phosphate application consisting 3 rates of SP - 36 fertilizers (0.5; 1,0 and 1.5 of application dossage). The result showed the three factors interaction had a significant influence on soil pH at 2 weeks after planting, whilst interaction between RS application and soil condition had a significant influence on soil pH, available phosphate at 4, 6 and 8 weeks after planting. The interaction between RS application and phosphate fertilizers rate had a significant influence on soil pH 4 weeks after planting, and on available phosphate at 8 weeks after planting. The main effect of RS application was significant on exchangeable Fe and soil pH at all observations periods.
Litter Production and Decomposition Rate in the Reclaimed Mined Land under Albizia and Sesbania Stands and Their Effects on some Soil Chemical Properties
Authors: Munawar Ali , Indarmawan . , Suhartoyo Hery
Published: August 2018

Vegetation establishment is considered as a critical step of mined land rehabilitation. The growing plants do not only prevent soil erosion, but also play important roles in soil ecosystem development. Their litterfall is the main process of transferring organic matter and nutrients from aboveground tree biomass to soil. Thus, its quantification would aid in understanding biomass and nutrient dynamics of the ecosystem. This study was aimed to investigate the litter production and its decomposition rate in a reclaimed mined land using albizia and sesbania, and theireffects on some soil properties. The litter under each stand was biweekly collected for four months. At the same time litter samples were decomposed in mesh nylon bags in soils and the remaining litters were biweekly measured. Soil samples were taken from 0-15 cm depths from each stand for analyses of soil organic C, total N, and cation exchange capacity (CEC). The results demonstrated that total litter production under albizia (10.58 t ha-1 yr-1) was almost twice as much as that under sesbania stands (5.43 t ha-1 yr-1). Albizia litter was dominated by leaf litter (49.26%) and least as understory vegetation (23.31%), whereas sesbania litter was more evenly distributed among litter types. Decomposition rates of all litters were fastest in the initial stage and then gradually decreased. Sesbania leaf litters decomposed fastest, while albizia twigs slowest. Differences in the litter production and decomposition rates of the two species had not sufficiently caused significant effects on organic-C, total N, and CEC of the soilsafter one year of revegetation.Keywords: Albizia (Paraserianthes falcataria), decomposition rates, litter, mined land, Sesbania grandiflora
Femoral Derotation Osteotomy in Adults for Version Abnormalities
Authors: Buly Robert L. , Sosa Branden R. , Poultsides Lazaros A. , Caldwell Elaine , Rozbruch S. Robert
Published: August 2018

Background:

Version abnormalities of the femur can cause pain and hip joint damage due to impingement or instability. A retrospective clinical review was conducted on patients undergoing a subtrochanteric derotation osteotomy for either excessive anteversion or retroversion of the femur.

Methods:

A total of 55 derotation osteotomies were performed in 43 patients: 36 females and 7 males. The average age was 29 years (range, 14 to 59 years). The osteotomies were performed closed with an intramedullary saw. Fixation was performed with a variety of intramedullary nails. Twenty-nine percent of patients had a retroversion deformity (average, −9° of retroversion; range, +2° to −23°) and 71% had excessive anteversion of the femur (average, +37° of anteversion; range, +22° to +53°). The etiology was posttraumatic in 5 patients (12%), diplegic cerebral palsy in 2 patients (5%), Prader-Willi syndrome in 1 patient (2%), and idiopathic in 35 patients (81%). Forty-nine percent underwent concomitant surgery with the index femoral derotation osteotomy, including hip arthroscopy in 40%, tibial derotation osteotomy in 13%, and a periacetabular osteotomy in 5%. Tibial osteotomies were performed to correct a compensatory excessive external tibial torsion that would be exacerbated in the correction of excessive femoral anteversion.

Results:

No patient was lost to follow-up. Failures occurred in three hips in three patients (5%): two hip arthroplasties and one nonunion that healed after rerodding. There was one late infection treated successfully with implant removal and antibiotics with an excellent final clinical outcome. At an average follow-up of 6.5 years (range, 2 to 19.7 years), the modified Harris Hip Score improved by 29 points in the remaining 52 cases (P < 0.001, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). The results were rated as excellent in 75%, good in 23%, and fair in 2%. Subsequent surgery was required in 78% of hips, 91% of which were implant removals.

Conclusions:

A closed, subtrochanteric derotation osteotomy of the femur is a safe and effective procedure to treat either femoral retroversion or excessive anteversion. Excellent or good results were obtained in 93%, despite the need for subsequent implant removal in more than two-thirds of the patients.
Textural Hardness of Selected Ugandan Banana Cultivars under Different Processing Treatments
Authors: Gafuma Samuel , Byarugaba-Bazirake G. W. , Mugampoza Ediriisa
Published: August 2018

Textural hardness affects cooking time, processing, fuel used and the quality of cooked bananas. In this study, textural hardness of selected Ugandan cooking and juice banana cultivars at green maturity was determined using a Texture Analyzer in raw form and at 30, 50, 70, 90, 100 and 130 min in boiled, steamed, mashed and cooled forms.Raw juice bananas (JB) were significantly harder (36.17N to 42.43N) than raw cooking bananas (CB) (22.37N to 26.72N) (p<0.05). On cooking, JB were harder than CB irrespective of cooking method and time. Boiling and steaming rapidly decreased hardness of the bananas in the first 30 min and decreased slowly thereafter. Boiling produced softer bananas than steaming while mashing resulted in intermediate hardness. Amongst JB, Kayinja was significantly harder than Ndiizi and Kisubi in boiled and steamed forms (p<0.05). Hardness of CB was not significantly different (p>0.05) for all cooking treatments, but Kibuzi was consistently softer while Kazirakwe and Nakabululu were harder than other CB cultivars.Cooling significantly increased (p<0.05) hardness of bananas under all treatments with JB being harder in all cases. Mashed and steamed bananas were harder than boiled bananas when cooled. Bananas cooked longer had lower hardness regardless of cooking method.Overall, textural hardness decreases with cooking time regardless of cooking method. Boiled bananas are softer than mashed or steamed. Cooling increases hardness which follows first order kinetics. Therefore, bananas should either be boiled or steamed and mashed for softer texture and be eaten within 30 min of serving. Juice bananas should not be cooked because of the hard texture established in this study.
The Teachers’ Training in Colombia. Beginnings, Route and Current Events
Authors: Quintero Maria Constanza Cano , Granja Luis Carlos , Valencia Heriberto González
Published: August 2018

The history of education in Colombia has been linked to the efforts and mobilizations of organized teachers who have promoted the professionalization of teachers and the guidelines of the political class. It has been the reflection of the struggle of the teaching community, towards a progressive but slow recognition of their activities and knowledge, their contribution to the evolution, the strengthening and the constitution of the National State. The witnesses of that process have been the pedagogical institutes and universities in Colombia, where the generational mark is seen in the teachers and in the general features of the educational panorama in the current teachers´ training, which is complemented with the opening of the faculties of education and the current schools for teachers´ training which are called in Colombia Normal Schools. In this regard, they can be cited as the most relevant periods in the training of the Colombian teacher, with traces that transcended the political, social, educational and economic areas, as the following; teacher training in the century of Independence, from the beginning of the 20th century until the 1991 Constitution and teachers´ training from Law 115 up to now.
Effect of the strong magnetic field on copper adsorption processes on activated carbon
Authors: Rajczykowski Krzysztof , Loska Krzysztof
Published: August 2018

In the presented studies an influence of the strong static magnetic field on the process of copper adsorption on activated carbon was analysed. The magnetic field was generated by the annular neodymium magnets, placed at the bottom of the glass reactors, with the magnetic induction value at the surface equal 0.517 T. Additionally, during the study an effect of temperature on the adsorption process efficiency and its susceptibility to the external magnetic field was also investigated. As a result of the study, it was found that using a magnetic modification can increase the efficiency of the adsorption process up to 80%. However, such a strong influence of the external magnetic field was observed only in the case of relatively low initial and equilibrium concentration of the adsorbate. With the increase of the equilibrium concentration, stimulating nature of the magnetic field weakened significantly until finally at an equilibrium concentration about 80 mg/dm3, it was almost negligible. In addition, it was also found that the magnetic field modifications were much more efficient if the adsorption processes were conducted at the higher temperature.
Automonitorização glicêmica
Authors: Oliveira Rosimeire Fernandes de , Barbosa Jaqueline Almeida Guimarães , Guimarães Gilberto de Lima , Silva Silmar Maria da , Andrade Maria Ivanilde de , Calsolari Maria Regina
Published: August 2018

Objetivo: evaluar el desempeño del procedimiento de autocontrol glucémico de pacientes con diabetes. Método: estudio cuantitativo tipo exploratorio descriptivo observacional. Se investigó cómo algunos pacientes adultos con diabetes realizaban el procedimiento en los servicios de atención secundaria y cada aspecto se anotaba en un formulario. Los datos se analizaron estadísticamente y se discutieron desde el punto de vista de la literatura científica. Resultados: entre los 60 participantes, 63% eran mujeres, 53.3% jubilados, entre 35 y 60 años (51,7%), 60% con enseñanza primaria, 51.7% con ingresos de hasta un sueldo mínimo, 38% con diagnóstico de diabetes de 11 y 20 años y, de ellos, un 93,3% no conocía las metas glucémicas. Un 86,7% no se lavaba las manos ni antes ni después del procedimiento ni eliminaba correctamente los residuos; 91,7% no limpiaba el aparato después de usarlo; 75% no anotaba los resultados. Conclusión: los participantes mostraron dificultades y deficiencias en la práctica del autocontrol glucémico, lo cual pone en riesgo la vigilancia de su estado real de salud y demuestra la necesidad de capacitación con miras a la eficacia del procedimiento y a la prevención de complicaciones, además de mejorar el control de la enfermedad. Por lo tanto, la enfermera que trabaja con este tipo de clientes debería esforzarse para que ellos aprendan a desempeñar la técnica de autocontrol glucémico y que sean conscientes de los riesgos para la salud causados por una acción incorrecta.
Dimensionamento do pessoal de enfermagem na terapia intensiva adulto
Authors: Souza Verusca Soares de , Inoue Kelly Cristina , Oliveira João Lucas Campos de , Magalhães Ana Maria Müller de , Martins Eleine Aparecida Penha , Matsuda Laura Misue
Published: August 2018

El objeto del presente estudio consistió en calcular el personal de enfermería de una unidad de cuidados intensivos adultos. Se trata de una investigación transversal, prospectiva, descriptiva y cuantitativa, realizada en la unidad de cuidados intensivos adultos (UCI-A) de un hospital universitario de Paraná, Brasil. La recogida de datos ocurrió entre junio y octubre de 2014 por medio del Nursing Activity Score (NAS) en una muestra (n = 81) de prontuarios de pacientes, por el cual se obtuvo la medición de la carga de trabajo promedio (565,32 puntos) del personal de enfermería del sector. Con ello, se calculó el personal de la categoría, de acuerdo con la legislación nacional correspondiente a la Resolución nº 543/2017 del Consejo Federal de Enfermería. El cálculo del total de personal fue de 32 trabajadores, entre ellos 17 enfermeros y 15 técnicos de enfermería. En la comparación con el personal de enfermería real, hubo déficit general de tres profesionales. Faltaban ocho enfermeros asistenciales, y había cinco trabajadores de nivel medio de más. Se concluyó que el personal de enfermería de la UCI-A es insuficiente, lo cual puede afectar la calidad y la seguridad de los cuidados intensivos, además de comprometer la identidad profesional del enfermero.
Anomaly analysis on an open DNS dataset
Authors: Aziz Benjamin , Menychtas Nikolaos , Al-Bazi Ammar
Published: August 2018

The increasing availability of open data and the demand to understand better the nature of anomalies and the causes underlying them in modern systems is encouraging researchers to analyse open datasets in various ways. These include both quantitative and qualitative methods. We show here how quantitative methods, such as timeline, local averages and exponentially weighted moving average analyses, led in this work to the discovery of three anomalies in a large open DNS dataset published by the Los Alamos National Laboratory.
A Hybrid Approach for Antenna Optimization Using Cat Swarm based Genetic Optimization
Authors: Singh A. , Mehra R. M. , Pandey V. K.
Published: August 2018

The aim of the paper is to introduce the hybrid technique for the multiobjective optimization of antennas. The goal of the antenna optimization is typically minimising the reflection coefficient through a frequency band. To minimize the energy consumption is essential consideration of energy efficient transmission schemes that is used for the data transfer in wireless sensor networks. In our proposed work the efficient and low-cost multi objective technique CSGO (Cat Swarm based Genetic optimization) approach was used. The Cat Swarm Optimization approach is combined with genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize the bandwidth and return loss of the antenna. CSGO approach is to improve the Optimization efficiency and computational .This hybrid optimization approach will reduce the side lobe level and provide improvement in the Directivity. CSGO applied to the design of a miniaturized multiband antenna, showing better diversity and significant savings of overall optimization cost compared with the previously reported design methods.
Drug therapy and other factors associated with the development of acute kidney injury in critically ill patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Soares Danielly Botelho , Mambrini Juliana Vaz de Melo , Botelho Gabriela Rebouças , Girundi Flávia Fialho , Botoni Fernando Antonio , Martins Maria Auxiliadora Parreiras
Published: August 2018

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with a significant increase in morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. In intensive care units (ICU), AKI is commonly multifactorial and frequently involves diverse factors, such as hypovolemia, sepsis, and the use of nephrotoxic drugs. We aimed to investigate drug therapy and other factors associated with the development of AKI in a Brazilian public hospital.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study involving critically ill patients at an ICU of a tertiary hospital. All data on sequential serum creatinine (SCr) level, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and urine output were collected during ICU stay. The primary outcome was the occurrence of AKI assessed by the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) criterion. Sociodemographics, clinical data and drug therapy were considered as covariates. Factors associated with AKI were assessed using logistic regression.

Results

Overall, 122 participants were included in the study. Median age was 46.0 (interquartile range, IQ = 29.0–69.0) years, with a predominance of men (58.2%). Mean number of prescribed drugs throughout ICU stay was 22.0 ± 9.4. The number of potentially nephrotoxic drugs ranged from two to 24 per patient. A total of 29 (23.8%) ICU patients developed AKI. In the AKI-group, patients were older and showed higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores at admission, higher rates of sedation, mechanical ventilation, and infection. More drugs in general and specifically more vasoactive drugs were prescribed for AKI group. Patients who developed AKI tended to have extended stays in the ICU and a lower probability of being discharged alive than patients with no AKI development. Model adjustments of logistic regression showed that the number of medications (OR 1.15; 95% CI [1.05–1.27]) was the only factor associated with AKI in this study. This association was independent of drug nephrotoxicity.

Discussion

Intensive care is characterized by its complexity that combines unstable patients, severe diseases, high density of medical interventions, and drug use. We found that typical risk factors for AKI showed statistical association on bivariate analysis. The contribution of drug therapy in the occurrence of AKI in medical ICUs reinforces the need for prevention strategies focused on early recognition of renal dysfunction and interventions in drug therapy. These actions would help improve the quality of patient care and ensure progress towards medication safety.
Plant and algal chlorophyll synthases function in Synechocystis and interact with the YidC/Alb3 membrane insertase
Authors: Proctor Matthew S. , Chidgey Jack W. , Shukla Mahendra K. , Jackson Philip J. , Sobotka Roman , Hunter C. Neil , Hitchcock Andrew
Published: August 2018

In the model cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, the terminal enzyme of chlorophyll biosynthesis, chlorophyll synthase (ChlG), forms a complex with high light‐inducible proteins, the photosystem II assembly factor Ycf39 and the YidC/Alb3/OxaI membrane insertase, co‐ordinating chlorophyll delivery with cotranslational insertion of nascent photosystem polypeptides into the membrane. To gain insight into the ubiquity of this assembly complex in higher photosynthetic organisms, we produced functional foreign chlorophyll synthases in a cyanobacterial host. Synthesis of algal and plant chlorophyll synthases allowed deletion of the otherwise essential native cyanobacterial gene. Analysis of purified protein complexes shows that the interaction with YidC is maintained for both eukaryotic enzymes, indicating that a ChlG‐YidC/Alb3 complex may be evolutionarily conserved in algae and plants.
Fraud Detection, Electoral
Authors: Jiménez Raúl , Thurner Stefan , Pericchi Luis Raúl , Klimek Peter
Published: August 2018

Even in mature democracies, elections often end in controversies related to allegations of fraud. Many of them cannot be resolved on the basis of traditional audits, such as the scrutiny of the vote counting. In these cases, election forensics provides a means for testing the legitimacy of an electoral outcome, which is based on the statistical consistency of the election data. We review two recently developed tools that lead to the so‐called election fingerprints.
Combining Estimates from Multiple Surveys
Authors: Elliott Michael R. , Raghunathan Trivellore E. , Schenker Nathaniel
Published: August 2018

Combining estimates from multiple surveys can be very useful, especially when the question of interest cannot be addressed well by a single, existing survey. In this article, we provide a brief review of the methodology for combining estimates, with a focus on dual frame, weighting‐based, joint‐modeling, missing‐data, and small‐area methods. Many such methods are useful in situations outside the realm of combining estimates from multiple surveys, such as combining information from surveys with administrative data and combining probability‐sample data with nonprobability sample, or “big” data. We also provide examples of comparability issues that must be kept in mind when information from different sources is being combined.
Reliability Analysis of Polymeric Materials
Authors: King Caleb , Xu Zhibing , Lee I.‐C. , Hong Yili
Published: August 2018

Polymeric materials are widely used in many applications and are especially useful when combined with other polymers to make polymer composites. The appealing features of these materials come from their comparable levels of strength and endurance to what one would find in metal alloys while being more lightweight and economical. However, these materials are still susceptible to degradation over time and so it is of great importance to manufacturers to assess their product's lifetime. Because these materials are meant to last over a span of several years or even decades, accelerated testing is often the method of choice in assessing product lifetimes in a more feasible time frame. In this article, a brief introduction is given to the methods of accelerated testing and analysis used with polymer materials. Special attention is given to degradation testing and modeling owing to the growing popularity of these techniques along with a brief discussion of fatigue testing. References are provided for further reading in each of these areas.
Self‐Organizing Maps
Authors: Fattore Marco
Published: August 2018

A self‐organizing map (SOM), or Kohonen map, is a dimensionality reduction procedure, aimed at producing bidimensional representations of multidimensional numerical datasets. SOMs are a kind of neural networks trained by competitive learning, where input data are quantized by a set of representatives, called
codebooks
, arranged on a regular grid of cells. Each input vector is associated with the cell whose codebook is more similar to it, in the chosen metric. The resulting grid can be used to reveal patterns within the data, to build two‐dimensional histograms of multidimensional density distributions, or as a way to classify new inputs. Given the simplicity of the learning algorithm, and the existence of efficient software implementations, SOMs are widely used as tools for unsupervised classification, pattern recognition, and data visualization, in a variety of fields, such as socioeconomics, finance, linguistics, biology and genetics, chemistry, archaeology, engineering, robotics, image classification, and speech recognition.