bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of smallholder farmers’ perceptions on adaptation strategies to climate change and policy implications in Zimbabwe
Authors: Jiri Obert , Mtali-Chafadza Linda , Mafongoya Paramu L.
Published: August 2017

Smallholder agricultural production is largely affected by climate change and variability. Despite the negative effects brought by climate variability, smallholder farmers are still able to derive livelihoods. An understanding of factors that influence farmers’ responses and adaptation to climate variability can improve decision making for governments and development partners. This study investigated farmers’ perceptions and adaptation strategies to climate change and how these influence adaptation policies at local level. A survey was conducted with 100 households randomly selected from Chiredzi district. Data collected was used to derive farmer perceptions to climate change as well as the influence of their perceptions and subsequent adaptation methods to ensuing local agricultural adaptation measures and policies. The results indicated that smallholder farmers perceived general reduction in long-term annual rainfall and rising local average temperatures. Adverse trends in rainfall and average temperature perceived by farmers were consistent with empirical data. These perceptions and other socio-economic factors helped to shape smallholder farmer agricultural adaptation strategies. Policy implications are that the government and development partners should seek ways to assist autonomous adaptations by farmers through investments in planned adaptation initiatives.
Impact of Deficit Irrigation on Yield and Chemical Properties of Soybean Seeds in Temperate Climate
Authors: Kresović Branka , Gajić Boško , Tapanarova Angelina , Pejić Borivoj , Dugalić Goran , Sredojević Zorica
Published: August 2017

The goal of this research is to determine the effects of different levels of water deficit (I100: full irrigation, I65: 35% deficit, I40: 60% deficit and I0: no irrigation) on yield and chemical composition of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] grown in Srem region of Serbia. Water deficit significantly affected the yield and chemical composition of soybean seeds. The lowest (1.63 t/ha) and the highest (3.21 t/ha) seed yields were obtained from I0 and I65 treatments, respectively. Furthermore, the highest protein (1092 kg/ha) and oil (563 kg/ha) yields were observed in I65 treatment. Lower and higher irrigation levels from I65 decreased the protein and oil yields. Our data indicated that irrigation generally increased K, P, Mg, Mn, Cu, Zn and B concentrations and decreased Ca and Fe concentrations in soybean seed. It was clearly observed that full-watered treatment (I100) provided no potential benefit in terms of soybean yield and chemical composition. For higher economic yield and good nutritional quality, water-saving treatment I65 could be suitable in soybean management in Srem region of Serbia as in other regions with similar soil and climate conditions.
Morphometric Characterization and Body Measurement Correlation in Dubska Pramenka Sheep
Authors: Važić Božo , Rogić Biljana , Pihler Ivan , Drinić Milanka , Savić Nebojša
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study is to determine the morphometric characterization of Dubska Pramenka sheep and to establish a relationship between the most important body measurements of ewes and rams within the strain. The Dubska Pramenka is one of the biggest strains within the Pramenka breed. The wither heights of ewes and rams were 73.37 cm and 79.92 cm respectively, whereas the body lengths were 74.66 cm (ewes) and 80.42 cm (rams), and the rump heights were 73.72 cm (female) and 80.16 cm (male). Based on the data presented, it is evident that the Dubska Pramenka sheep has almost a square body shape with the rump height slightly greater than the wither height. The chest depth and shoulder width of ewes were 34.50 cm and 22.72 cm respectively, whereas those of males were 36.17 cm and 23.75 cm. In both sheep genders, the hip width (ewes 21.92 cm, rams 22.91 cm) was lower than the shoulder width. The chest and shin perimeters of females were 98.72 cm and 9.31 cm respectively, whereas those of males were 103.25 cm and 10.91 cm. The most significant correlation and statistical significance were recorded in relation to the measured wither and rump heights (r = 0.856 for females, r = 0.856 for males) due to their constant increase during the growth and development of sheep. Conversely, the measurements of rump heights and chest perimeters did not indicate any correlation (r = −0.028 for ewes, r = 0.004 for rams).
Effect of the Duration of Liquid Nitrogen Storage on the Regrowth of Blackberry Cryopreserved by Droplet Vitrification
Authors: Vujović Tatjana , Ružić Đurđina , Cerović Radosav
Published: August 2017

In vitro shoot tips of the blackberry cultivar ‘Čačanska Bestrna’ were cryopreserved using the droplet vitrification technique. Upon loading (30 min) in a solution of 1.9 M glycerol and 0.5 M sucrose, the explants were dehydrated for 40 min on ice with the PVS A3 vitrification solution (glycerol 37.5%, dimethyl sulfoxide 15%, ethylene glycol 15% and sucrose 22.5%) and for 40 min at room temperature with the PVS3 solution (glycerol 50% and sucrose 50%). They were subsequently frozen in individual microdroplets of vitrification solution, by direct immersion in liquid nitrogen (LN), and kept therein for 2, 4, 8 and 24 h. The explant rewarming was performed in an unloading solution (0.8 M sucrose) for 30 min at room temperature. The duration of LN exposure did not exert significant effects on the survival and regrowth of explants in both types of vitrification solutions. The survival and regrowth of cryopreserved shoot tips dehydrated with PVS3 solution ranged between 90–95% and 80–90%, respectively. However, dehydration with PVS A3 resulted in a lower survival rate (80–90%) and a considerably lower regrowth rate (55–65%) of explants. Monitoring the shoots regenerated in the in vitro culture revealed their normal capacity for multiplication and rooting in comparison with the controls, which fully confirms the purpose of cryopreservation in the long-term preservation of plant material.
Germination and Relations between Seed Quality Characteristics for Acer pseudoplatanus and Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Atropurpureum’
Authors: Kostić Saša , Čukanović Jelena , Ljubojević Mirjana , Mladenović Emina , Mrđan Snežana , Svilokos Nina
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this paper is to analyze relations between seed quality characteristics and the influence of contaminated urban areas on seed quality of sycamore maple trees in different locations across Novi Sad (Serbia). This research analyzed seed germination of 29 adult trees of sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) and its red leaf variety (Acer pseudoplatanus ‘atropurpureum’ Späth.). Our results indicate a medium strong positive correlation between seed weight and viable seed. Sycamore maple trees from the same urban typology do not have significant influence on seed quality characteristics, while different urban typology has such influence. These results explain the negative influence of urban areas on seed quality characteristics. For selection of high value trees in urbanized and contaminated areas, seed quality can be the indicator of adaptability to stress related conditions.
Analysis of the Features of Hunting Grounds in Serbia
Authors: Lavadinović Vukan M. , Popović Zoran , Beuković Dejan , Danilović Milorad , Đorđević Milutin
Published: August 2017

Covering almost the entire territory of Serbia, hunting grounds occupy a unique role not only in the country’s hunting practices but also in game management and wildlife conservation. Therefore, it is useful to be acquainted with their characteristics in order to manage game in a sustainable manner. Nevertheless, there has not been a proper study on the condition of hunting grounds in Serbia since the country’s transition process, which reshaped the hunting sector as a whole. The purpose of this research is to identify and analyze the features of hunting grounds in Serbia in order to establish a base for future scientific research and appropriate decision making. The research results were obtained on the basis of the data on 272 hunting grounds in Serbia, collated during the hunting year of 2012/2013 and compared with the last comprehensive hunting analysis at the national level in 2001. The analysis suggests that the regal hunting system is still predominant in Serbia. The quality of hunting grounds has been enhanced to a certain extent, although there are yet some challenges which pose a threat to sustainable management such as the oversized hunting areas, lack of employees and poor financial condition.
Potential of Agricultural Biomass: Comparative Review of Selected EU Regions and Region of Vojvodina
Authors: Odavić Petrana , Milić Dragan , Zekić Vladislav , Tica Nedeljko
Published: August 2017

Owing to the fact that the EU is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% below 1990 levels by 2020, and having in mind their high dependence on import of oil and oil derivatives, which, in turn, causes instability of power supply, increasing attention is being paid to renewable energy sources. Given the ongoing pre-accession process of the Republic of Serbia in relation to the EU, in order to determine the capacity of the country to increase the share of energy use from renewable sources, in this paper clustering of selected regions in the EU-28 has been carried out, after which a comparative analysis of regions was performed in terms of potential of agricultural biomass, for the purpose of generating energy. The aim of this study is to determine the level of the region of Vojvodina in relation to ten selected EU regions, based on parameters that affect the potential for using renewable energy sources, primarily residues from agriculture. By applying the K-means method, Borda count method and comparative analysis, and based on empirical data, results show that the region of Vojvodina takes a significant fifth place. Its share of agricultural land ranks it as the first, whereas production of cereals and the total number of farms larger than 100 ha rank it as the second. It could be concluded that Vojvodina is an agricultural region with large quantities of plant remains, primarily those left over from harvest, which represents a significant potential for energy generation from agricultural biomass.
Geological evolution of the southwestern part of the Veporic Unit (Western Carpathians): based on fission track and morphotectonic data
Authors: Vojtko Rastislav , Králiková Silvia , Andriessen Paul , Prokešová Roberta , Minár Jozef , Jeřábek Petr
Published: August 2017

Zircon and apatite fission track (FT) and morphotectonic analyses were applied in order to infer quantitative constraints on the Alpine morphotectonic evolution of the western part of the Southern Veporic Unit which is related to: (1) Eo-Alpine Cretaceous nappe stacking and metamorphism of the crystalline basement in the greenschist facies. (2) Exhumation phase due to underthrusting of the northerly located Tatric-Fatric basement (~ 90–80 Ma), followed by a passive en-block exhumation with cooling through ~ 320–200 °C during the Palaeocene (ZFT ages of ~ 61–55 Ma). (3) Slow Eocene cooling through ~ 245–90 °C, which most likely reflected erosion of the overlying cover nappes and the Gosau Group sediments. Cooling reached up to 60 °C till the Oligocene (AFT ages of ~ 37–22 Ma) in association with erosion of cover nappes. The efficient Eocene erosion led to the formation of the first Cenozoic planation surface with supergene kaolinization in many places. (4) The early Miocene erosion coincided with surface lowering and resulted in the second planation surface favourable for kaolinization. (5) In the middle Miocene, the study area was covered by the Poľana, Javorie, and Vepor stratovolcanoes. (6) The late Miocene stage was related to the erosion and formation of the third Cenozoic planation surface and the final shaping of the mountains was linked to a new accelerated uplift from the Pliocene.
The pre-Cainozoic basement delineation by magnetotelluric methods in the western part of the Liptovská kotlina Depression (Western Carpathians, Slovakia)
Authors: Fendek Marián , Grand Tomáš , Daniel Slavomír , Blanárová Veronika , Kultan Vincent , Bielik Miroslav
Published: August 2017

The geology and hydrogeology of the Liptovská Kotlina Depression were studied by means of new geophysical methods. Controlled source audio-frequency magnetotellurics enabled us to delineate the relief of the pre-Cainozoic basement in the western part of the Liptovská Kotlina Depression into two segments with different lithostratigraphic units. Our complex findings disprove the interconnection between the Bešeňová and Lúčky water bearing structures located in the study area. The results were interpreted in the form of a resistivity cross section and resistivity model. The geological interpretation of the obtained results, taking into account the other geophysical and geological constrains showed that the pre-Cainozoic basement has a tectonically disrupted, broken relief. The Bešeňová and Lúčky structures appear to be isolated by the Palaeogene sediments (sandstone, claystone) and in the deeper part also by marly carbonates and marlstones of the Jurassic age belonging to the Fatricum. It was confirmed that the structural connectivity of geothermal aquifers in the area between the Bešeňová and Lúčky–Kaľameny should not exist. The assumption of different circulation depth was also confirmed by geothermometry and existing radiocarbon analyses applied on groundwater in both areas.
Advances in the Treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis B Virus Co-infection
Authors: Sun Guofang
Published: August 2017

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are transmitted through the same pathways. Therefore, the incidence of HBV in the HIV-infected population is higher than that in the healthy population, and is more obvious in China given the high HBV prevalence in the country. HIV and HBV co-infection can accelerate the disease process of HBV. Moreover, the incidence of cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease is higher in patients co-infected with HIV and HBV than in patients infected HBV alone. When treating patients co-infected with HIV and HBV for HBV infection alone, care should be taken to avoid the induction of HIV resistance. HBV should be considered during drug selection for anti-retroviral treatment. Furthermore, the effective HBV treatment should be retained if anti-retroviral drugs require changing.
Research progress in the targeted monitoring of surgical site infections
Authors: Jia Pingdong
Published: August 2017

Surgical treatment can decrease the pain burden of patients, as well as improve their quality of life and social satisfaction. However, postoperative infection and other complications may harm patients and may even cause surgical failure and death. This review describes the definition, classification, and status of surgical site infection (SSI). In addition, this review provides an analysis of the relevant risk factors that result in SSI, and proposes the corresponding preventative and control measures for each different risk factor.
Advances in Studies on Prevalence and Interaction Mechanism of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome and Tuberculosis Coinfection
Authors: Meng Chao , Li Na , Tong Zhaoxiao , Yan Huangxin , Min Shenxiao
Published: August 2017

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) coinfection is a serious public health problem. HIV and TB promote each other, accelerating development of HIV to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and heightening TB mortality. Determining interaction mechanism between HIV andMycobacterium tuberculosiscan lead to development of effective treatments. This study summarizes prevalence status of AIDS and TB coinfection and research advances concerning their interaction mechanism.
Simulation Algorithm to Determine the Number of Un-Served Calls when Transferring the Signal in Broadband Cellular Networks
Authors: Otsetova-Dudin E. , Kurtev I. , Siarova S.
Published: August 2017

Planning and design of cellular networks is associated with the creation of traffic models for the transfer of signal using schemes with priorities within which assess the probability parameters of quality of service is performed. The study of these parameters is associated with the creation of a simulation model and an algorithm of broadband handover.
Evidence for the involvement of the GABA-ergic pathway in the anticonvulsant activity of the roots bark aqueous extract of Anthocleista djalonensis A. Chev. (Loganiaceae)
Authors: Taiwe Germain Sotoing , Kouamou Arielle Larissa Ndieudieu , Ambassa Armelle Rosalie Mbang , Menanga Joseph Renaud , Tchoya Thierry Bang , Dzeufiet Paul Desire Djomeni
Published: August 2017

Background:

The root bark of Anthocleista djalonensis A. Chev. (Loganiaceae) is widely used in traditional medicine in Northern Cameroon to treat epilepsy and related conditions, such as migraine, insomnia, dementia, anxiety, and mood disorders.

Methods:

To investigate the anticonvulsant effects and the possible mechanisms of this plant, an aqueous extract of Anthocleista djalonensis (AEAD) was evaluated by using animal models of bicuculline-, picrotoxin-, pilocarpine-, and pentylenetetrazole-induced convulsions. Their effects on brain γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentration and GABA-T activity were also determined.

Results:

This extract significantly protected mice against bicuculline-induced motor seizures. It provided 80% protection against picrotoxin-induced tonic-clonic seizures, and strongly antagonized convulsions induced by pilocarpine. AEAD also protected 100% of mice against pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures. Flumazenil, a central benzodiazepine receptor antagonist and FG7142, a partial inverse agonist in the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor complex, were found to have an inhibitory effect on the anticonvulsant action of AEAD in pentylenetetrazole test. Finally, the brain GABA concentration was significantly increased and GABA-T activity was inhibited by AEAD.

Conclusions:

The effects of Anthocleista djalonensis suggested the presence of anticonvulsant properties that might involve an action on benzodiazepine and/or GABA sites in the GABAA receptor complex or by modulating GABA concentration in the central nervous system (CNS).
The Rule of Temperature Coefficients for Selection of Optimal Separation Sequence for Multicomponent Mixtures in Thermal Systems
Authors: Tsirlin Anatoly , Andreevich Sukin Ivan , Balunov Alexander , Schwalbe Karsten
Published: August 2017

In this paper an estimate for the reversible molar heat supply needed for fully separating a certain mixture is given on the basis of thermodynamic balance equations. It is shown that in order to estimate this heat supply one should solve the problem of selecting the optimal separation sequence. The algorithm solving this task is given. This algorithm allows to select the separation sequence on the basis of preliminary calculations, knowing only the properties of the component that one wants to separate. The solution algorithm is demonstrated for an exemplary system: a gas-fractionation plant.
A pilot study of the effect of human breast milk on urinary metabolome analysis in infants
Authors: Shoji Hiromichi , Taka Hikari , Kaga Naoko , Ikeda Naho , Kitamura Tomohiro , Miura Yoshiki , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: August 2017

Background:

This study aimed to examine the nutritional effect of breast feeding on healthy term infants by using urinary metabolome analysis.

Methods:

Urine samples were collected from 19 and 14 infants at 1 and 6 months, respectively. Infants were separated into two groups: the breast-fed group receiving <540 mL/week of their intake from formula (n=13 at 1 month; n=9 at 6 months); and the formula-fed group receiving no breast milk (BM) (n=6 at 1 month; n=5 at 6 months). Urinary metabolome analysis was performed using capillary electrophoresis-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (CE-TOF/MS).

Results:

A total of 29 metabolites were detected by CE-TOF/MS metabolome analysis in all samples. Urinary excretion of choline metabolites (choline base solution,

Conclusions:

The type of feeding in early infancy affects choline metabolism, as well as lactate, threonine, and carnosine levels, in healthy term infants. Urinary metabolome analysis by the CE-TOF/MS method is useful for assessing nutritional metabolism in infants.
Ga2O3 nanowires preparation at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Korbutowicz R. , Stafiniak A. , Serafińczuk J.
Published: August 2017

An attempt has been undertaken to produce gallium oxide nanowires by thermal synthesis from metallic gallium source at atmospheric pressure. Silicon substrates of (1 0 0) and (1 1 1) orientation with and without silicon oxide layers (0.5 μm) were used as support. Evaporated thin gold films were deposited on the top of those silicon carriers as a catalytic agent. After thermal treatment by Rapid Thermal Processing RTP (at various temperatures and times), which was applied to make small Au islands with the diameters of about several tens of nanometers, the substrate surfaces were observed by SEM. The Ga2O3 syntheses were made at various conditions: time, temperature and gas mixture were changed. As a result, monoclinic gallium oxide β-Ga2O3 nanostructures with dominant [1 1 1] and [0 0 2] growth directions were grown. The obtained nanostructures of several tens micrometers length were studied by SEM, PL and X-ray methods.
Enhanced thermal conductivity of graphene nanoplatelets epoxy composites
Authors: Jarosinski Lukasz , Rybak Andrzej , Gaska Karolina , Kmita Grzegorz , Porebska Renata , Kapusta Czeslaw
Published: August 2017

Efficient heat dissipation from modern electronic devices is a key issue for their proper performance. An important role in the assembly of electronic devices is played by polymers, due to their simple application and easiness of processing. The thermal conductivity of pure polymers is relatively low and addition of thermally conductive particles into polymer matrix is the method to enhance the overall thermal conductivity of the composite. The aim of the presented work is to examine a possibility of increasing the thermal conductivity of the filled epoxy resin systems, applicable for electrical insulation, by the use of composites filled with graphene nanoplatelets. It is remarkable that the addition of only 4 wt.% of graphene could lead to 132 % increase in thermal conductivity. In this study, several new aspects of graphene composites such as sedimentation effects or temperature dependence of thermal conductivity have been presented. The thermal conductivity results were also compared with the newest model. The obtained results show potential for application of the graphene nanocomposites for electrical insulation with enhanced thermal conductivity. This paper also presents and discusses the unique temperature dependencies of thermal conductivity in a wide temperature range, significant for full understanding thermal transport mechanisms.
Synthesis of Cu and Ce co-doped ZnO nanoparticles: crystallographic, optical, molecular, morphological and magnetic studies
Authors: Rawat Mohit , Singh Jasmeet , Singh Jagpreet , Singh Chamkaur , Singh Amritpal , Kukkar Deepak , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: August 2017

In the present research work, crystallographic, optical, molecular, morphological and magnetic properties of Zn1-xCuxO (ZnCu) and Zn1-x-yCeyCuxO (ZnCeCu) nanoparticles have been investigated. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) coated ZnCu and ZnCeCu nanoparticles have been synthesized by chemical sol-gel method and thoroughly studied using various characterization techniques. X-ray diffraction pattern indicates the wurtzite structure of the synthesized ZnCu and ZnCeCu particles. Transmission electron microscopy analysis shows that the synthesized ZnCu and ZnCeCu particles are of spherical shape, having average sizes of 27 nm and 23 nm, respectively. The incorporation of Cu and Ce in the ZnO lattice has been confirmed through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Room temperature photoluminescence spectra of the ZnO doped with Cu and co-doped Ce display two emission bands, predominant ultra-violet near-band edge emission at 409.9 nm (3 eV) and a weak green-yellow emission at 432.65 nm (2.27 eV). Room temperature magnetic study confirms the diamagnetic behavior of ZnCu and ferromagnetic behavior of ZnCeCu.
The Demystification of Nick Zangwill’s “Myth of Religious Experience”
Authors: Fasko Manuel
Published: August 2017

The debate about religious experiences has recently been shaped by the question of whether they exist or if they are a myth. One of the most compelling arguments for the non-existence of religious experience was put forward by Nick Zangwill. In his “The myth of religious experience” (2004) he argued that God can be perceived neither by our ordinary five senses nor by some special sixth sense. While I agree with Zangwill that God cannot be perceived with our ordinary five senses (or a sixth religious sense), I do not think his argument shows that religious experience - based on Zangwill’s own understanding of the term - is a myth. In this paper, I offer in two steps a philosophical defence - in the analytical tradition - of the possible existence of religious experience as perceptual experiences. In the first step, I adumbrate Zangwill’s argument for the myth of religious experience, which fails because it ultimately begs the question - as I argue in the second step, by presenting a Berkelean answer to Zangwill’s challenge.
Sensitivity analysis and economic optimization studies of inverted five-spot gas cycling in gas condensate reservoir
Authors: Shams Bilal , Yao Jun , Zhang Kai , Zhang Lei
Published: August 2017

Gas condensate reservoirs usually exhibit complex flow behaviors because of propagation response of pressure drop from the wellbore into the reservoir. When reservoir pressure drops below the dew point in two phase flow of gas and condensate, the accumulation of large condensate amount occurs in the gas condensate reservoirs. Usually, the saturation of condensate accumulation in volumetric gas condensate reservoirs is lower than the critical condensate saturation that causes trapping of large amount of condensate in reservoir pores. Trapped condensate often is lost due to condensate accumulation-condensate blockage courtesy of high molecular weight, heavy condensate residue. Recovering lost condensate most economically and optimally has always been a challenging goal. Thus, gas cycling is applied to alleviate such a drastic loss in resources.

In gas injection, the flooding pattern, injection timing and injection duration are key parameters to study an efficient EOR scenario in order to recover lost condensate. This work contains sensitivity analysis on different parameters to generate an accurate investigation about the effects on performance of different injection scenarios in homogeneous gas condensate system. In this paper, starting time of gas cycling and injection period are the parameters used to influence condensate recovery of a five-spot well pattern which has an injection pressure constraint of 3000 psi and production wells are constraint at 500 psi min. BHP. Starting injection times of 1 month, 4 months and 9 months after natural depletion areapplied in the first study. The second study is conducted by varying injection duration. Three durations are selected: 100 days, 400 days and 900 days.

In miscible gas injection, miscibility and vaporization of condensate by injected gas is more efficient mechanism for condensate recovery. From this study, it is proven that the application of gas cycling on five-spot well pattern greatly enhances condensate recovery preventing financial, economic and resource loss that previously occurred.
Evacuation simulation using Hybrid Space Discretisation and Application to Large Underground Rail Tunnel Station
Authors: Chooramun N , Lawrence P. J. , Galea E. R.
Published: August 2017

In all evacuation simulation tools, the space through which agents navigate and interact is represented by one the following methods, namely Coarse regions, Fine nodes and Continuous regions. Each of the spatial representation methods has its benefits and limitations. For instance, the Coarse approach allows simulations to be processed very rapidly, but is unable to represent the interactions of the agents from an individual perspective; the Continuous approach provides a detailed representation of agent movement and interaction but suffers from relatively poor computational performance. The Fine nodal approach presents a compromise between the Continuous and Coarse approaches such that it allows agent interaction to be modelled while providing good computational performance. Our approach for representing space in an evacuation simulation tool differs such that it allows evacuation simulations to be run using a combination of Coarse regions, Fine nodes and Continuous regions. This approach, which we call Hybrid Spatial Discretisation (HSD), is implemented within the buildingEXODUS evacuation simulation software. The HSD incorporates the benefits of each of the spatial representation methods whilst providing an optimal environment for representing agent movement and interaction. In this work, we demonstrate the effectiveness of the HSD through its application to a moderately large case comprising of an underground rail tunnel station with a population of 2,000 agents.
Effect of Inner Nozzle Lip Thickness on Co-flow Jet Characteristics
Authors: Srinivasarao T. , Murthy I. Dakshina , Lovaraju P. , Rathakrishnan E.
Published: August 2017

This paper presents the experimental results of subsonic and underexpanded sonic jets delivered from a central nozzle surrounded by a co-flow. The role of central nozzle lip thickness on the co-flow jet characteristics has been studied. The jet-mixing enhancement is achieved in the case of jet from the thick-lip nozzle compared to that of thin-lip nozzle. The extent of supersonic zone for the thick-lip is much shorter than the thin-lip jet.
Developmental Restriction of Retrotransposition Activated in Arabidopsis by Environmental Stress
Authors: Gaubert Hervé , Sanchez Diego H , Drost Hajk-Georg , Paszkowski Jerzy
Published: August 2017

Retrotransposons (RTs) can rapidly increase in copy number due to periodic bursts of transposition. Such bursts are mutagenic and thus potentially deleterious. However, certain transposition-induced gain-of-function or regulatory mutations may be of selective advantage. How an optimal balance between these opposing effects arises is not well characterized. Here, we studied transposition bursts of a heat-activated retrotransposon family in Arabidopsis. We recorded a high inter and intraplant variation in the number and chromosomal position of new insertions, which usually did not affect plant fertility and were equally well transmitted through male and female gametes, even though 90% of them were within active genes. We found that a highly heterogeneous distribution of these new retroelement copies result from a combination of two mechanisms, of which the first prevents multiple transposition bursts in a given somatic cell lineage that later contributes to differentiation of gametes, and the second restricts the regulatory influence of new insertions toward neighboring chromosomal DNA. As a whole, such regulatory characteristics of this family of RTs ensure its rapid but stepwise accumulation in plant populations experiencing transposition bursts accompanied by high diversity of chromosomal sites harboring new RT insertions.
Methodological and Ethical Issues in Pediatric Medication Safety Research
Authors: Carpenter Delesha , Gonzalez Daniel , Retsch-Bogart George , Sleath Betsy , Wilfond Benjamin
Published: August 2017

In May 2016, the Eshelman School of Pharmacy at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill convened the PharmSci conference to address the topic of “methodological and ethical issues in pediatric medication safety research.” A multidisciplinary group of experts representing a diverse array of perspectives, including those of the US Food and Drug Administration, children’s hospitals, and academia, identified important considerations for pediatric medication safety research and opportunities to advance the field. This executive summary describes current challenges that clinicians and researchers encounter related to pediatric medication safety research and identifies innovative and ethically sound methodologies to address these challenges to improve children’s health. This article addresses 5 areas: (1) pediatric drug development and drug trials; (2) conducting comparative effectiveness research in pediatric populations; (3) child and parent engagement on study teams; (4) improving communication with children and parents; and (5) assessing child-reported outcomes and adverse drug events.
Repercusiones endocrinológicas del síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS)
Authors: Londono Palacio Natalia , Rico López Alvaro Fernando
Published: August 2017

El síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS), como enfermedad multisistémica, afecta también el sistema endocrinológico: la producción normal de las hormonas se puede afectar ante la presencia de hipoxia intermitente, inflamación y estrés oxidativo. Por ejemplo, los sujetos con obesidad y SAHOS tienen niveles de leptina mucho más elevados que sujetos obesos pareados sin SAHOS. En el presente artículo se trata la relación existente entre la apnea del sueño y la obesidad, el síndrome metabólico (SM), la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2), los desórdenes neuroendocrinos y la osteoporosis.
Síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) y su relación con el cáncer
Authors: Ortiz-Santacruz Carlos Alberto , Londono Palacio Natalia
Published: August 2017

Desde hace algunos años se ha sugerido que los pacientes con síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño sin tratamiento tienen una mayor probabilidad de cáncer sólido y de mortalidad por cáncer, sin embargo hay dudas frente al tema. Por esta razón, en este artículo se describen, por un lado, los estudios más importantes al respecto y, por el otro, la fisiopatología propuesta por los investigadores que plantean esta asociación donde la hipoxia, el daño oxidativo del DNA, la disfunción endotelial y la disrupción de la arquitectura del sueño juegan un papel fundamental, además de otras consideraciones interesante.
Repercusiones psiquiátricas del síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS)
Authors: Escobar-Córdoba Franklin , Echeverry-Chabur Jorge
Published: August 2017

La apnea del sueño es un síndrome que afecta múltiples sistemas y produce variados síntomas. En el presente artículo se revisan las enfermedades psiquiátricas más frecuentes asociadas a este y la necesidad de realizar un diagnóstico adecuado y un tratamiento interdisciplinario. La entidad que más se ha podido encontrar en los pacientes con apnea del sueño es la depresión y se piensa que se debe a la fragmentación del sueño, la cual altera la producción de neurotransmisores a nivel cerebral. La ansiedad es la segunda entidad con mayor frecuencia, quizás debido a la liberación de catecolaminas durante la noche. Existen otras sintomatologías asociadas a la apnea del sueño que deben ser revisadas y que mejorarían con un tratamiento adecuado, así como también mejoraría la calidad de vida de los pacientes, pues la atención, la concentración y la memoria incrementarían o disminuirían la irritabilidad y otros síntomas.
Evaluación del síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) mediante instrumentos de medición como escalas y fórmulas matemáticas
Authors: Escobar-Córdoba Franklin , Eslava-Schmalbach Javier
Published: August 2017

La psicometría del síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) se puede proporcionar con el uso de variados métodos de evaluación como entrevistas clínicas, escalas, cuestionarios de sueño, autoregistros y registros psicofisiológicos. La prueba de oro para el diagnóstico de esta enfermedad sigue siendo la polisomnografía, la cual puede llegar a tener altos costos y dificultades para acceder al estudio. Debido a la alta morbimortalidad asociada a este síndrome, se requieren instrumentos que permitan la identificación rápida de individuos que puedan estar en riesgo de padecerlo. Por tales motivos, se han desarrollado herramientas que permiten detectar los pacientes en riesgo de presentar SAHOS, tales como el Cuestionario de Berlín, el STOP-Bang y la Escala de Somnolencia de Epworth. Es importante tener en cuenta los alcances y limitaciones de estas herramientas para escoger el instrumento indicado según lo que se desee evaluar.
Manejo perioperatorio del paciente con síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS)
Authors: Fajardo-Escolar Angélica P. , Perea-Bello Ana Helena , Hidalgo-Martinez Patricia
Published: August 2017

Los pacientes con diagnóstico de síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) pueden ser llevados de forma segura a cualquier procedimiento quirúrgico, incluso de manera ambulatoria si tienen control adecuado de sus otras comorbilidades. El tratamiento con presión positiva continúa en vía aérea (CPAP) en pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado disminuye el riesgo de presentar complicaciones cardiovasculares a largo plazo. La sedación debe ser hecha por un anestesiólogo, quien, además, debe vigilar al paciente y disponer del equipo adecuado para atender complicaciones respiratorias emergentes. Se sugiere que, en estos pacientes, los procedimientos sean hechos en el ámbito hospitalario, donde se tenga disponibilidad en la unidad de cuidados post-anestésicos y personal para monitoreo por al menos una hora tras finalizar el procedimiento. El tratamiento con CPAP debe continuar según sea ordenado por el médico tratante. Es importante que desde la valoración preanestésica se identifique a los pacientes con riesgo de SAHOS para lograr trazar un plan anestésico que disminuya las complicaciones a nivel respiratorio y del manejo de la vía área.
Repercusiones neurológicas del síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS)
Authors: Venegas-Mariño Marco
Published: August 2017

El síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) es una patología con repercusiones sistémicas frecuentes. Uno de los órganos más afectados es el cerebro, así como el sistema nervioso central, convirtiéndose en un factor de riesgo cerebrovascular independiente de otros factores; este síndrome puede incrementar la frecuencia y severidad de enfermedades primarias del sistema nervioso central como epilepsia y síndromes demenciales.Un síntoma cardinal del SAHOS es la cefalea, que presenta características específicas; además, existen diferentes mecanismos fisiopatológicos identificados involucrados en su desarrollo como microdespertares frecuentes con interrupción del sueño, somnolencia diurna secundaria, alteración de la capacidad de atención, concentración, reacción motora, afecto, etc. En conjunto, estos mecanismos afectan otras funciones mentales superiores como el juicio, el raciocinio o la memoria. Factores como hipoxemia, hipercapnia, incremento de la frecuencia cardíaca y presión arterial, secreción de adrenalina, noradrenalina o cortisol durante el sueño contribuyen a la alteración endotelial responsable de enfermedad cerebrovascular.
Repercusiones cardiovasculares del síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS)
Authors: Barón Alberto , Paez-Moya Sylvia
Published: August 2017

En la población de sujetos con síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño se describen entidades clínicas cardiovasculares asociadas con esta entidad y que afectan su curso y pronóstico. Dentro de estas se encuentran hipertensión arterial, arritmias, enfermedad coronaria, insuficiencia cardíaca, hipertensión pulmonar y tromboembolismo venoso. Del mismo modo, se describen los mecanismos fisiopatológicos de estas asociaciones, su prevalencia e impacto. Dado que afectan el curso de la enfermedad y, por tanto, la severidad de la misma, estas entidades juegan un papel muy importante en la toma de decisiones al momento de ofrecer el mejor manejo en cada caso, el cual debe ser abordado de forma multidisciplinaria.
Definición del síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS)
Authors: Parejo-Gallardo Karem Josefina
Published: August 2017

El síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño es uno de los trastornos del sueño más prevalentes en la población general y está asociado a diferentes alteraciones biológicas que pueden llegar a desencadenar importantes problemas cognitivos, metabólicos y cardiovasculares. Este artículo está dedicado a su definición y a proporcionar los criterios diagnósticos mínimos, tanto clínicos como polisomnográficos, que se tienen en la actualidad.
Historia del síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS)
Authors: Guilleminault Christian , Parejo-Gallardo Karem Josefina
Published: August 2017

La historia de la apnea obstructiva del sueño es larga y complicada desde sus primeras descripciones en el siglo XIX con el relato de Pickwick en la primera novela de Charles Dickens. La definición de este término por parte de diferentes investigadores resalta la importancia de comprender las entidades asociadas al síndrome, como la hipoventilación alveolar y la somnolencia diurna excesiva. De esta forma, los estudios neurofisiológicos adelantados desde entonces, el desarrollo de la conferencia de la sociedad europea de neurología de 1964, la descripción del síndrome en pacientes pediátricos, la confirmación de la comorbilidad cardiovascular asociada a la enfermedad, la traqueostomía como tratamiento y la creación de implantes de estimuladores del nervio hipogloso —pasando por el descubrimiento de Sullivan de la presión positiva como tratamiento en casa— han sido esenciales para la comprensión de este síndrome.
Multiple Contracts According to the Fatwa of National Sharia Council
Authors: Lateh Bukhoree
Published: August 2017

At the recent decades, the business activity in Islamic Financial Institutions consists of funding, financing, and service. These are addressed to economic development and improving the society welfare. In the line of funding, the people can invest their money such saving and deposit. Uniquely, deposits may be withdrawn at any time with the use of checks, gyro, forms of payment order, or money transfer. But, not all gyro transactions can be justified by Islamic law (Sharia) in which uses the principle of sharia mutual benefit. Therefore, the National Sharia Council National Sharia Council of Indonesian Council of Ulama (NSC-ICU) deems it necessary to be set in the Fatwa mu’ā mala form that can be used as the guidelines for the implementation of current accounts in Sharia Banking Institution. It is referring to the National Sharia Board Fatwa DSN-MUI Number: 01/DSN-MUI/IV/2000). Based on the reason, this paper will explain the Implementation of Multiple Contract (al-'uqū d al-murakkaba) according to the fatwa of National Sharia Council.
Complications Associated With the Use of Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenic Protein–2 in Ridge Augmentation: A Case Report
Authors: Dragonas Panagiotis , Palin Charles , Khan Saba , Gajendrareddy Praveen K. , Weiner Whitney D.
Published: August 2017

This case report aims to describe in detail a complication associated with resorption of regenerated bone following implant placement and ridge augmentation using recombinant human bone morphogenic protein–2 (rhBMP-2) in combination with allograft and xenograft. Bilateral maxillary sinus and ridge augmentation procedures were completed using rhBMP-2 combined with allograft and xenograft. Five months later, significant bone augmentation was achieved, which allowed for the placement of 4 implants. Upon stage 2 surgery, significant dehiscence was noted in all implants. Treatment steps to address this complication included implant removal, guided bone regeneration with xenograft only, and placement of new implants followed by soft-tissue grafting. At the time of publication, this patient is status 1½ years post case completion with maintenance of therapy outcomes. Off-label use of rhBMP-2 has gained significant acceptance in implant dentistry. However, there is limited evidence regarding the bone maturation process when rhBMP-2 is combined with other biomaterials. More research may be needed regarding the timing and process of bone healing in the presence of rhBMP-2, in an effort to avoid surgical complications.
Use of co-fired blended ash in the development of sustainable construction materials
Authors: Ram Shashi , Pradhan Kunal , Ralegaonkar Rahul V
Published: August 2017

This experimental investigation studied the potential of co-fired blended ash (CFBA), obtained from co-firing sawdust and coal, for the development of bricks and mortar. The identified new raw material CFBA underwent chemical (X-ray fluorescence spectrometry), physical (specific gravity determination, sieve analysis), mineralogical (X-ray diffraction) and morphological (scanning electron microscopy) characterisation. CFBA was used as a partial fine aggregate substitute in the production of bricks and as a supplementary cementitious material in mortar. The developed bricks were tested for compressive strength, water absorption and efflorescence. Bricks developed with 15% sand substitution by CFBA were found to be in accordance with the Indian standard (IS 1077) and were suggested for non-load-bearing walls. In contrast, in the case of mortars (10–30% CFBA content), decreases in compressive strength (25–63%) and flexural strength (3–9%) were observed in comparison with standard mortars. Hence, the study concluded that the use of CFBA as an alternative raw material for the production of bricks was feasible.
La deforestación en el norte de Esmeraldas (Eloy Alfaro y San Lorenzo)
Authors: Minda Batallas Pablo Aníbal
Published: August 2017

La deforestación en el norte de Esmeraldas (Eloy Alfaro y San Lorenzo)
Gestión y gobernabilidad de las instituciones de educación superior
Authors: Orozco Luis Enrique
Published: August 2017

Gestión y gobernabilidad de las instituciones de educación superior
Experimental Study of High Strength Fibrous Reinforced Concrete Slabs
Authors: Saeed Srakawt
Published: August 2017

This paper summarizes the results obtained form tests on a series of three-edge simply supported high-strength reinforced concerete slabs with various volume fraction of steel fiber, percentage of reinforcement and rectangularity (lengh to width ratio).

The results showed that the increase in volume fraction of steel fiber and percentage of reinforcement causes an increase in the carrying capacity of these slabs, while the increase in rectangularity causes a decrease in the load carrying capacity. The increase in the yield load over the yield line theory load (membrance action) for the volume fraction of steel fibers considered (0.4%-0.8%) are 3% and 15% respectively, while the percentage increase are of the order of 16% for steel ratio 0.15%. This is in a good agreement with the results of other studies [10, 16]